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{{Infobox Secondary school
{{Short description|Public school in New York City}}
{{Use American English|date=October 2024}}
| name = Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2024}}
| logo = [[Image:Mbhs logo 95.jpeg]]
{{more citations needed|date=December 2016}}
| motto = Putting The "B" In Business
{{Infobox school
| name = Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers
| image = Murry Bergtraum high school (8033158638).jpg
| logo = Murry Bergtraum HS.jpg
| motto =
| secondarymotto =
| established = 1975
| established = 1975
| type = [[Public school (government funded)|Public]] [[High school (North America)|High School]]| principal =Ms. Joyell Simmons
| type = [[Public school|Public]] secondary
<ref>[http://schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/D686C362-D5C8-49BC-BF61-21D4625C9A81/90393/psatparentletter20101013.pdf PSAT Letter]</ref><ref>[http://schools.nyc.gov/SchoolPortals/02/M520/default.htm Welcome - Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers - M520 - New York City Department of Education]. Schools.nyc.gov (2012-01-11). Retrieved on 2013-10-05.</ref>
| principal = Barbara A. Esmilla
| enrollment = 999 (as of 2014-15)<ref name=NCES/>
| faculty = 300
| faculty = 61.0 [[full-time equivalent|FTEs]]<ref name=NCES/>
| students = 3,000+
| ratio = 16.4:1<ref name=NCES/>
| mascot = [[Image:MBHS Blazers.gif|35px]]Bergtraum Blazers
| mascot = Flash<ref>[http://www.psal.org/psalsports/school/psal_schoolprofile.asp?cschool=02546 Bergtraum's PSAL Profile]</ref>
| city = [[New York City|New York]]
| colors = {{Color box|red|border=darkgray}}{{Color box|gold|border=darkgray}} Red &amp; Gold
| state = [[New York]]
| country = [[USA]]
| athletics = [[PSAL]]
| city = New York City
| website = [http://www.bergtraum.org www.bergtraum.org]
| state = [[New York (state)|New York]]
| grades = 9-12
| country = U.S.
| address = 411 Pearl Street
| website = http://schools.nyc.gov/SchoolPortals/02/M520/default.htm
| free_label_1= Athletics
| grades = [[Ninth grade|9]]–[[Twelfth grade|12]]
| free_1 = [[PSAL]]
| address = 411 Pearl Street
| newspaper =
| yearbook = ''The Montague''
| nickname = Bergtraum; MBHS; Murry B
| schoolnumber = M520
| schoolboard = [[New York City Department of Education|New York City Public Schools]]
| district = 2 (Geographic and Administrative)
| coordinates = {{Coord|40|42|40|N|74|00|05|W|format=dms|display=inline,title|type:edu_region:US-NY}}
}}
}}
The '''Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers''' is a public secondary school in New York City. It is located in [[Lower Manhattan]], adjacent to the [[Brooklyn Bridge]] and [[New York City Hall|City Hall]]. Bergtraum offers business-oriented courses to prepare students for careers in [[marketing]], [[tourism]], [[finance]], [[human resources]], [[information systems]], [[economics]], [[computer science]], [[law]], and [[secretary|secretarial]] fields. The school also combines its business curriculum with an academic program that gears towards preparation for college. In recent years, the school has been integrating more [[humanities]] and [[liberal arts]] courses to enrich the school's curriculum.<ref>[http://www.insideschools.org/fs/school_profile.php?id=963 Inside School's Profile of Murry Bergtraum] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051229210211/http://www.insideschools.org/fs/school_profile.php?id=963 |date=2005-12-29 }}</ref>


Murry Bergtraum High School was one of the first business-themed high schools in New York City, and inclusively, the United States. It has two sister schools that share its business theme: [[Norman Thomas High School]] (previously known as Central Commercial High School) and the [[High School of Economics and Finance]]. Out of the three schools, Murry Bergtraum is the largest of all the business high schools in this category and in the city due to its large, diverse business programs and course offerings.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
[[Image:Picture013.jpeg|right|thumb|250px|View of the eastern wing of the building, which oversees Pearl Street.]]


It remains as one of the few large high schools in New York City as a result of [[Michael Bloomberg|Michael Bloomberg's]] small-school restructuring projects.<ref>[http://www.fwa.org/committee/mentor.htm Financial Women's Association Committees - Mentoring] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090923212630/http://www.fwa.org/committee/mentor.htm |date=2009-09-23 }}. Fwa.org. Retrieved on 2013-10-05.</ref> It was also exempted from chancellor [[Joel Klein|Joel Klein's]] citywide uniform curriculum initiated in 2003.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
'''Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers''' is a public secondary school in [[New York City]]. It is located in [[Lower Manhattan]] near the [[Brooklyn Bridge]], next to City Hall on 411 Pearl Street. Bergtraum offers business courses to prepare students for jobs in marketing, tourism, and secretarial fields as well as academic courses to prepare them for college if they choose to go. Students are generally poised and self-confident -- perhaps because of their experiences running their own businesses and working with mentors. Students in a "virtual enterprise" class formed their own publishing company. Other students get retail experience in a school store (funded by benefactor Ronald Lauder, head of [[Estee Lauder]]). The goal of former Principal Grace Julian was to have every student have a mentor from a corporation such as Estee Lauder for at least part of their high school career. Murry Bergtraum is one of many schools that chancellor [[Joel Klein]] has exempted from the citywide uniform curriculum initiated in 2003.


==History==
==Background information==
Murry Bergtraum High School was established in 1975, in memory of Murry Bergtraum, a former President of the New York City [[Board of Education]] who died in 1974. Before joining the Board of Education, Bergtraum was a furrier, and was active in the furrier's union and in local [[politics]]. His widow Edith Katz Bergtraum, a public school teacher, was also politically active and a member of her local school board for 19 years. After her death in 1994 an elementary school in Queens (PS 165 in District 25) was renamed for her. The name "Bergtraum" comes from [[German language|German]] and means "mountain dream".
The school was established in 1975, in memory of Murry Bergtraum, a former President of the [[New York City Board of Education]] who died in 1973. Bergtraum joined the Board of Education on May 20, 1969. He was then elected President of the Board of Education from July 1, 1970 to June 30, 1971. His obituary is online at https://www.nytimes.com/1973/11/09/archives/murry-bergtraum-56-president-of-school-board-in-7071-dies-member.html His widow Edith Katz Bergtraum, a public school teacher, was also politically active and a member of her local school board for 19 years. After her death in 1994, an elementary school in Queens (PS 165 in District 25) was renamed in her memory. The name ''"Bergtraum"'' originates from the [[German language]]. In the English language, it translates to ''"mountain dream"''.<ref>[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/S05/about.htm] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928105414/http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/S05/about.htm|date=September 28, 2007}}</ref>


Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers was still under construction in 1975 while the first class of freshmen were attending classes at Pace University awaiting the completion of the new high school. While at the Pace campus, an art instructor held a school logo contest. Many designs were submitted by the students. Ultimately the winner chosen by the staff was a student named Norberto Feliciano. The winning school emblem is circular in design with a triangle in the center that represents the schools aerial view shape. The name of the school is within double circles, and the school initials placed within the triangle. Olive branches were placed within the logo as a sign of peace as also seen in the flag of the United Nations. The logo is used on letter heads, notebooks, T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, team uniforms, and other school-branded items.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
Bergtraum was the first academic comprehensive high school with business majors. It was supported by the Downtown Lower Manhattan Association to prepare young people to enter the world of work and college.


Bergtraum was the first academic comprehensive high school with business majors in New York City and one of the first in the United States. It was supported by the Downtown Lower Manhattan Association to prepare young people to enter the world of work and college.<ref>[http://print.nycenet.edu/ChoicesEnrollment/High/Directory/school/?sid=3195 Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers, M520, Borough of Manhattan, Zip Code 10038]</ref>
Although the school building itself is 30 years old, the school was not named "Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers" at once. It was first named "Downtown High School" for its first few years. However, it has been debated since the time of the building construction, students were relocated to a small windowless building. The name "Downtown High School" could have referred to the name that could have been given to the new High School.


Murry Bergtraum High School, along with other high schools of the Lower Manhattan area were the first schools evacuated during the [[September 11 attacks]] on the [[World Trade Center (1973–2001)|World Trade Center]] in 2001. Although Bergtraum is located in the [[Lower East Side]] section of [[Manhattan]], the school administration ordered an immediate evacuation of the building. The building was evacuated in three minutes. It was the first high school in New York City that had successful evacuation of students.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
The Bergtraum building itself has been a sign of questioning at times. The building currently has three major staircases labeled: "A, C, E". However, it is also known that the building also had to interior staircases, labeled: "B and D". The reason why these two staircases closed is unknown at the time.


The school was labeled as a "[[Ground Zero]]" school (by the [[Fdny|NYFD]])--students were relocated to the [[High School of Art and Design]] in Upper Manhattan. The Bergtraum administration were unhappy with the relocation and appealed it, and their building was re-opened and students resumed their studies within a few days.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:Picture010.jpeg|left|thumb|250px|The exterior main entrance has maintained its original structure since 1975.]] -->


<!-- Deleted image removed: [[File:Bergtraum Polo Front.JPG|right|thumb|187px|The Uniform Code was debated for five consecutive years, in the 2006–2007 school year--white polo shirts were introduced to Bergtraum students. Students were given these Polo shirts (starting with an [[alpha]] order of white), with an ongoing order of approximately 20,000 shirts in 27 different colors, students bought shirts like these at Murry's Place, Bergtraum's school store. Student Government operatives wore these uniforms on September 27, 2006 in order to show students what the new dress code would be.]] -->
==Overview==
Bergtraum began to face new ideas of reform during the [[Spring Term]] of the 2005–2006 academic school year. Due to certain measures to improve both performance and student morale, new measures and new plans began to be introduced by the [[Principal (school)|Principal]] and the School Leadership Team. Some of the reforms included:
There are over 3000 students at Bergtraum, and it is ranked as a "School Of Excellence" by [[U.S. News & World Report]]. It is well known for its girls' Basketball team, having won numerous [[Public Schools Athletic League|PSAL]] championships. Murry Bergtraum High School also ranks along side [[Stuyvesant High School]], the [[Bronx High School of Science]], and [[Brooklyn Technical High School]] in terms of popularity. Bergtraum offers majors in business and attracts students from all boroughs, receiving an average of 15,000 to 20,000 applications every year. As an educational option school, it takes in students from all levels. The school population is structured as follows:


*The attempt to restore the Bergtraum building after 31 years of establishment.
* 16% of the school is formed of students who are high performers.
* A sharp decrease in the number of students admitted into the school. Incoming freshmen classes averaged to about 900 to 1000 students. {{As of|August 2007}}, that number is down to approximately 800. The school currently faces a 131% overcrowding rate—that is, there are 36% more students than the building was designed to accommodate.
* 68% of the school is formed of students who are average performers.
*The introduction of a new dress code to bring a more professional environment to the school. Students now follow a mandatory "dress for success" every Wednesday. The school uniform policy has been discontinued.{{citation needed|date=January 2019}}
* 16% of the school is formed of students who are low performers (although due to the [[No Child Left Behind Act]] of 2001, there have been fewer of these).


Bergtraum has had seven [[Principal (school)|principals]]:
Bergtraum has also been known for its unusual triangular shape, which leads to only 50% of the school having windows. The exterior sides of the building have windows, while the interior sides of the building do not. Despite the design of the building, it stays very warm in the winter, and very cool during the summer. Due to the shape of the school and the number of students, there are 3 different time schedules that students report to school:
*Dr. Barbara Christen
*Elsie Chan
*Grace Julian
*Barbara Esmilla, who retired in June 2010
*Dr. Andrea D. Lewis, who chose to leave in August 2012
*Lottie Almonte, who was removed in August 2014
*Naima Cook (incumbent)


==Rankings==
*7:51 A.M to 2:37 P.M. (Periods 1 to 8)
[[Image:Maria's Tower, One Pace Plaza, by David Shankbone.jpg|right|thumb|250px|The Murry Bergtraum High School's western wing of the building, as seen from [[Pace University|Pace University's]] Maria Tower]] Historically, there has been an average of over 3,000 students at Bergtraum during a given year, and it has been ranked as a "School of Excellence" by ''[[U.S. News & World Report]]'' since 1999.<ref>[http://www.tnellen.com/school/ Tnellen]</ref><ref>[http://www.publicschoolreview.com/school_ov/school_id/56333 School Review]</ref> It is well known for its girls' basketball team, having won thirteen consecutive [[Public Schools Athletic League|PSAL]] championships as of 2011.<ref>[http://www.nydailynews.com/sports/high_school/2010/03/07/2010-03-07_bergtraum_wins_record_13th_psal_title.html Murry Bergtraum Wins Record 13th girls 'AA' Title at the Garden]</ref> Bergtraum offers majors in business that attracts students from all boroughs; receiving an average of 15,000 to 20,000 applications every year, making it one of the most popular schools in the city of New York. As an educational option school, it takes in students from all academic levels.<ref>[http://schools.nyc.gov/ChoicesEnrollment/High/Admissions/Methods.htm High School Selection Methods - Admissions Process]</ref>
*8:42 A.M. to 3:28 P.M. (Periods 2 to 9)
*9:35 A.M. to 4:21 P.M. (Periods 3 to 10)


The school population is structured as follows:
[[Image:Original exterior.jpeg|right|thumb|250px|The Bergtraum building bears the emblem of New York City, and the emblem of the City Education Department.]]
* 16% of the school is formed of students who are high performers.
* 68% of the school is formed of students who are average performers.
* 16% of the school is formed of students who are low performers.


Bergtraum has also been known for its unusual triangular shape, which leads to only half of the school building having windows. The exterior sides of the building have windows, while the interior portion of the building does not. Despite the design of the building, it stays very warm in the winter and very cool during the summer because of its centralized air-conditioning system.
== Bergtraum's Historical Principals ==


As of spring 2007, the school would follow a 1-8 schedule, eliminating the 3-10 and leaving very few students with a 2-9 schedule.
The Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers is also known for it's history in having only female [[principals]]. Throughout it's thirty year span, Bergtraum has only seen four principals.


As of September 2009, the school began to decrease its enrollment numbers to alleviate the overcrowding rate the school faced. The school's enrollment has dropped significantly from September, 2005 in which it had roughly 3,000 students enrolled. As of July 2009, that number has decreased to 2,589.
Dr. Barbara Christen was the first principal, who established Bergtraum to be one of the most rigorious High Schools in [[New York City]].


==School facilities==
Elsie Chan soon succeeded after Dr. Christen decided to retire. She continued the firm line of Bergtraum excellence.
Murry Bergtraum's facilities include:


*Three Gymnasiums. Two are on the same floor, but offer different electives. This two-in-one gym was constructed to accommodate freshmen and sophomores. The third gym, for juniors, is located on the sixth floor, and focuses on cardiovascular exercise and dance.<ref>[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/pehealth/info.htm#courses Physical Education Department Summaries]</ref>
Grace Julian is often seen as the principal who gave Bergtraum its crown of glory. Julian improved Bergtraum beyond measure. While Julian was principal, the Bergtraum Lady Blazers began to conquer the New York City [[PSAL]] [[Basketball]] division.
*Two functioning laboratories for science. All [[biology]], [[chemistry]], [[physics]], and [[marine biology]] laboratories are done in these two rooms.
*A library. The Bergtraum library hosts internet service, as well as books, references, and career resources.
*Computer laboratories. These rooms were once [[typewriting]] rooms; the old outlets on the floor mark the school's history.


==Student body==
Barbara Esmilla is currently the Principal of Bergtraum, and is now entering her fifth year as principal. She has tried to restore Bergtraum's glory, with some success. After rigorious testing at Bergtraum was canceled (this examination is no longer canceled and took effect once again during the [[2006]] year., Barbara Esmilla now tries to corporate balance and tries to make Bergtraum a sturdy school, in which she has had much success. A proud moment for her was when she pronounced the Graduating Class of [[2006]] as official [[graduates]] and [[alumni]] from Bergtraum. It was her first graduating class, and will not be her last since she will remain principal for the years to come.
As of the 2014–15 school year, the school had an enrollment of 999 students and 61.0 classroom teachers (on an [[full-time equivalent|FTE]] basis), for a [[student–teacher ratio]] of 16.4:1. There were 677 students (67.8% of enrollment) eligible for [[National School Lunch Act|free lunch]] and 42 (4.2% of students) eligible for reduced-cost lunch.<ref name=NCES>[http://nces.ed.gov/ccd/schoolsearch/school_detail.asp?Search=1&DistrictID=3600077&ID=360007702034 School data for Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers], [[National Center for Education Statistics]]. Accessed December 12, 2016.</ref>


Historically, Bergtraum's programs have catered to minority students, and the trend has not changed much since the school's opening.<ref>[https://books.google.com/books?id=2V4EAAAAMBAJ&dq=Bergtraum+accounting&pg=PA65 Black Enterprise - Google Books]</ref> The ethnic composition is as follows:<ref>[http://schools.nyc.gov/OurSchools/Region9/M520/AboutUs/Statistics/register.htm Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers' Student Register]</ref>
== The Bergtraum goal ==
* [[Indigenous peoples of the Americas|American Indian]]: 0.08%
Bergtraum's vision is to prepare its students to thrive and to flourish both academically, and socially in its educational option environment while students acquire technical skills that they will need to meet the demand and challenges of the business world. The school has eight business majors, also allowing students to take CTE examinations, such as the [[Microsoft Office Specialist]] examination. Thanks to the rigor of the [[accounting]] major, students who take the Advanced Accounting course can take an exam to obtain [[Certified Public Accountant]] qualifications. Bergtraum requires its students have a minimum of 10 business credits upon graduation.
* [[Asian American]]/[[Pacific Islander]]: 14.79%
* [[Hispanic]]: 49.98%
* [[African American]]: 32.60%
* [[White American]]: 2.47%
* Students Not Reported: 0.08%


Bergtraum has had more females than males in previous years. As of the 2009–2010 school year, 50.83% of Bergtraum students are female and 49.17% of Bergtraum students are male.
== School Facilities ==
Murry Bergtraum's facilities are perhaps some of the most distinct in it's field. Murry Bergtraum offers many functioning utilities essential to a student's growth as a person of society, and intellectual stimulation. Some facilities include, but are not limited to:


The building hosts students with [[special needs]] such as mental or physical [[disability|disabilities]], or hearing impairment. Students who use crutches can sometimes be seen throughout the building since the front stairs are not wheelchair accessible.
A. Three Gymnasiums. Two are on the same floor, but offer different electives. This two in one gym was constructed to accomodate freshmen and sophomores. The third gym, located on the sixth floor, is more of a cardiovascular gym, with machinery to assist in exercise. The use of this gym was for the juniors. The course was named "Slimnastics" since it had a reputation with teachers who did not tolerate nonsense and expected students to comply with the rigorious curriculum.


The school is only one out of two in [[Lower Manhattan]] that also gives admittance to [[English language learning and teaching|English as a Second Language]] (ESL) students. Out of the 3,000-plus students, 11.97% are ESL students.
B. Two functioning laboratories for science. These laboratories are quite out of date, yet supply the adequate above standard for understanding scientific concepts. All [[Biology]], [[Chemistry]], [[Physics]], and [[Marine Biology]] laboratories are done in these two rooms.


==Academics==
C. A fully functionable library. The Bergtraum library hosts excellent internet service, and a solid line of books, references, and career resources. The school library has an excellent section based on computer technology. Being one of the main majors at Bergtraum, students often go to these resources when referring to computer classes such as [[QBasic]] or learning the basic foundations for a [[MOS Certification]]. The library is open to all students periods 3 to 8 (lunchtime periods) and often after school period 9. The library strictly requires Identification and Program Cards to be shown upon entrance.
Bergtraum has more business courses with more majors than all of the Manhattan business-themed high schools combined. Bergtraum and [[Norman Thomas High School]] are the only schools in Manhattan that allow students to concentrate with one major.{{citation needed|date=July 2021}}


Bergtraum has eight business majors, and also allows students to take Career and Technical Education examinations, such as the [[Microsoft Office Specialist]] examination.<ref>[http://schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/D8041946-6C3B-437F-8C63-3B5C3987B058/80254/NYCDOE_CTE_Listing_AsOf03292010.xls Listing of Career and Technical Education Programs of - New York City]</ref> In the [[accounting]] major, students who take the Advanced Accounting course can take an exam to obtain [[Certified Public Accountant]] qualifications.<ref>https://professionals.collegeboard.com/k-12/assessment/clep/success [CLEP - Success Stories]</ref> Bergtraum requires its students have a minimum of 12 business credits upon graduation.
D. Computer laboratories never fall short at Bergtraum. An abundance of computer rooms is imperative for all students at Bergtraum. These rooms were once [[typewriting]] rooms, the old outlets on the floor mark the school's history. It is mandated that Bergtraum students know the profiencent typing technique in order to succeed at Bergtraum. The vast array of computer based courses rivals those of other business high schools.


Bergtraum is divided into 8 houses, each house representing a specific major. Students in each house, or department, study in their major for their 4 years in high school. In addition, each student must obtain a minimum of 44-50 credits in order to graduate, regardless of house. In each department, all students are mandated to take a [[keyboarding]]/business career exploration course for one year, or two semesters/terms.
== Student body ==
The students at Murry Bergtraum seek the skills to become people of the business world. Murry Bergtraum has 3,000 students and a diverse student body:

*45% of Bergtraum is Hispanic.
*24% of Bergtraum is Black.
*22% of Bergtraum is Asian.
*7% of Bergtraum is Caucasian.
*2% of Bergtraum is of another ethnicity.

== Bergtraum Academics ==

Bergtraum students have the chance to jump ahead of their counterparts in the business area. Bergtraum has more business courses with more majors than all of the Manhattan Business themed High Schools combined. Bergtraum and [[Norman Thomas High School]] are the only schools in Manhattan that allow students to concetrate with one major. Students not only choose the business area they wish to concentrate on, but students also face academic rigor in their regular New York State mandated education requirements. Students are allowed to have the standard 65 passing grade, but are encouraged to have an 80+ average. In an interview in Bergtraum's newspaper, '''The Bergtraum Voice''', Claire Panazzolo, an Ex-Assistant Principal of Business, stated that she "[w]anted Bergtraum to be the [[Stuyvesant High School|Stuyvesant]] of business". Students have been encouraged by many faculty members, among them Lilian Katz, College Advisor, who claims that the graduating class of 2006 was accepted to 85 different [[colleges]] and [[universities]] across the country, including schools of [[Ivy League]] caliber.

==Business programs==
[[Image:Picture005.jpeg|left|thumb|300px|The main entrance of the Bergtraum building.]]

Bergtraum students acquire the skills to work in a business-like atmosphere. Bergtraum is divided into 8 houses, each house representing a specific major. Students in each house, or department, study in their major for their 4 years in high school. In addition, each Student must obtain a minimum of 44-50 credits in order to graduate, regardless of house. In each department, all students are mandated to take a [[keyboarding]]/business career exploration course for one year, or two semesters/terms.

== Majors ==

Majors at Bergtraum were once known and categorized by "Houses". However, as the school began it's year of reformation, these houses were renamed to "Academies" as of [[September]] [[2006]]. Students of the Graduating Class of [[2009]] will be the last graduating class to be known and categorized by individual "Houses".
=== Finance ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy J"''' Students.

In the Finance major, students are introduced to [[accounting]], business introduction, [[business analysis]], [[law]] and [[computer applications]], college level [[accounting]], [[taxation]], and financial investments.

=== Accounting ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy G"''' Students.

In the Accounting major, students learn basic to complex [[accounting]]. This program mocks the previous [[stenography]] major that taught all types of stenography such as [[Gregg Stenography]], [[Alpha Stenography]], etc.

=== Human Resources Management ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy E"''' Students.

In the Administrative Assistant Technology major, students are introduced to Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certifications in [[Microsoft Word|Word]], [[Microsoft Excel|Excel]], [[Microsoft PowerPoint|Powerpoint]], and [[Microsoft Access|Access]] programs, [[notetaking]] ([[Shorthand]]), business English, [[internet]], [[business analysis]], and business protocols.

=== Information Systems ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy F"''' Students.

In the Information Systems major, students are introduced to MOS certificaions in [[Microsoft Word|Word]], [[Microsoft Excel|Excel]], [[Microsoft PowerPoint|Powerpoint]], and [[Microsoft Access|Access]] programs, integrated computer applications, and [[desktop publishing]].

=== Global Marketing Travel and Tourism ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy K"''' Students.

In the Travel and Tourism major, students are introduced to [[geography]], [[computer systems]], job shadowing, paid summer internships, and participate in the [[virtual enterprise]] program. This course is tied with the previous "'''L House'''" in order to make room for "'''Academy G'''"

=== Computer Science ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy N"''' Students.

In the Computer Science major, students are introduced to [[QBasic]], [[C++]], [[HTML]], [[Javascript]], [[web page design]], [[Microsoft Excel]] and [[Microsoft Access]], [[desktop publishing]], [[computer graphics]], and participate in mentoring programs with [[Lehman Brothers]].

=== Legal Studies ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy Q"''' Students.

In the Legal Studies major, students are introduced to [[business law]], trial procedures, general law, basic law of [[contracts]], [[real estate]] law, [[urban planning]], [[constitutional law]], and participate in courthouse visits.

=== Marketing, Introduction to Business ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"Academy K"''' Students.

In the Marketing major, students are introduced to the principles of [[marketing]] and [[advertising]], [[retailing]], [[insurance]], [[business law]], business computer operations, sports marketing, and participate in the [[Estee Lauder]] retail academy. This major is tied along with the previous '''L and K houses'''. Both houses now contain the same conjuncted courses.

=== Communications/Instructional Support/Special Education ===

At Bergtraum, students in this major are known as '''"I, O, or Z Academy"''' Students.

Students in this house must follow procedures according to their respective major, however their classes are taught differently from regular education students.

[[Image:Pps.jpeg|right|thumb|300px|Since the attacks of September 11th 2001 ([[9/11]]), Murry Bergtraum High School has been barricaded by Police Plaza.]]

==Murry Bergtraum and September 11, 2001==
Murry Bergtraum High School, along with other high schools of the Lower Manhattan area were the first schools were evacuated when terrorists attacked the [[World Trade Center]] on [[September 11, 2001]]. Although Bergtraum is located on the eastern side on [[Manhattan]], the school administration ordered an immediate evacuation of the building. Through the efforts of the staff and the cooperation of the students, the building was evacuated in six minutes. It was the first [[High School]] in [[New York City]] that had successful evacuation of students. Students were ordered to leave the premisis in order to avoid any emergencies that could occur from the terrorist attacks. The school was labeled as a "[[Ground Zero]]" school and students were relocated to the [[High School of Art and Design]] in Upper Manhattan. The Bergtraum administration was unhappy with the relocation and appealed it, and their building was re-opened and students resumed their studies within a few days.

== Graduation requirements ==
Murry Bergtraum High School students face the same requirements as all students in New York City do. A minimum of 46 credits is required to graduate from Bergtraum, however, most of the students graduate with as many as 50 credits. Students are required to study:

* 4 years of [[English language|English]], and take the English Language [[Regents Examinations|Regents examination]] at the end of their Junior year.

* 3 years of [[Mathematics]], and take the [[Math A]] and [[Math B]] Regents exam, or can substitute specific courses to earn the credits for [[Math B]].

* 4 Years of historical studies, including Global History and [[American History]]. Regents exams are taken when the student finishes each course.

* 3 years of a foreign language and to take the appropriate foreign language Regents exam. Languages offered include [[Chinese language|Chinese]], [[French language|French]], [[Italian language|Italian]], and [[Spanish language|Spanish]].

* 3 to 4 years of science. Regents courses are available for Living Environment Biology, [[Earth Science]], [[Chemistry]], and [[Physics]]. [[Marine Biology]] is available as an optional course, however no Regents exam is offered. Students must complete at least 2 Regents exams if offered Marine Biology in their freshman year. (In order to qualify for a Regents exam, students must complete 30 hours of laboratory instruction.)


===Graduation requirements===
Murry Bergtraum High School students face the same requirements as all students in New York City do. A minimum of 50-54 credits is required to graduate from Bergtraum, however, most of the students graduate with as many as 60 credits. Students are required to study:<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://schools.nyc.gov/documents/offices/GT/TL/2009_GenEd_Grad_Card_FINAL.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-04-26 |archive-date=2010-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100307210014/http://schools.nyc.gov/documents/offices/GT/TL/2009_GenEd_Grad_Card_FINAL.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://schools.nyc.gov/documents/offices/GT/TL/2009_SWD_Grad_Card_FINAL.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-04-26 |archive-date=2010-03-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100307210201/http://schools.nyc.gov/documents/offices/GT/TL/2009_SWD_Grad_Card_FINAL.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/2ABC8D78-F567-465D-968B-EA45C0C40FF3/50146/DiplomaRequirementsWorksheet.pdf |title=Archived copy |access-date=2010-04-26 |archive-date=2010-05-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100528100345/http://schools.nyc.gov/NR/rdonlyres/2ABC8D78-F567-465D-968B-EA45C0C40FF3/50146/DiplomaRequirementsWorksheet.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref>
* 4 years of English, and take the English Language [[Regents Examinations|Regents examination]] at the end of their Junior year.
* 3 years of [[Mathematics]], and take the [[Mathematics education in New York|Math A]] and [[Mathematics education in New York|Math B]] Regents exam, or can substitute specific courses to earn the credits for [[Mathematics education in New York|Math B]].
* 4 years of historical studies, including Global History and [[American History]]. Regents exams are taken when the student finishes each course.
* 3 years of a foreign language. Languages offered include [[Chinese language|Chinese]](Level 3 and 4 only), [[French language|French]], and [[Spanish language|Spanish]].
* 3 years of science. Regents courses are available for Living Environment Biology, [[Earth Science]], [[Chemistry]], and [[Physics]]. [[Marine Biology]] is available as an optional course, however no Regents exam is offered. Students must complete at least 2 Regents exams if offered Marine Biology in their freshman year. (In order to qualify for a Regents exam, students must complete 30 hours of laboratory instruction.)
* 3 and 1/2 years of [[physical education]], and 1/2 a year of [[health education]].
* 3 and 1/2 years of [[physical education]], and 1/2 a year of [[health education]].
* 4 years of business study. Passing all [[business]] courses is mandated in order to graduate with the Bergtraum seal. Specific business courses will depend on the department the student is in.
* Half a year of [[Music]]al Instruction/Appreciation.
* Half a year of [[Art]] Instruction/Appreciation.
* Half a year of an [[Internship]] based class. Internship classes are held in the school.
* Work-Based Business Credit. Students who work a specific number of hours each Semester qualify to receive an elective business credit.


===Courses and programs===
* 4 Years of business study. Passing all [[business]] courses is mandated in order to graduate with the Bergtraum seal. Specific business courses will depend on the department the student is in.
Courses include:
* The Virtual Enterprise Initiative
* The RoadsToRiches EntrepreneurNow Program
* CollegeNow Program<ref>[http://www.collegenow.cuny.edu/ourschools/highschools/school.php?code=BERGTRAUM_10038 Bergtraum's College Now]</ref>
* Microsoft IT Challenge – Took 1st Place 2006 (First NY Win)
* College Extension Program
* Academy of Travel and Tourism


===Advanced Placement courses===
*Half a year of [[music|Musical]] Instruction/Appreciation.
[[Advanced Placement]] courses, which are eligible for college credit, include [[AP Calculus AB|Calculus AB]], [[English language]] and [[English literature]], [[environmental science]], [[accounting]], [[United States history]], and [[World history (field)|world history]].

*Half a year of [[Art]] Instruction/Appreciation.

Murry Bergtraum created a system that enforces state standards on students. Its "No-Walk" policy does not permit seniors who are missing any credits to graduate.

== Bergtraum's Reforms ==

The Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers began to face new ideas of reform during the [[Spring Term]] of the 2005-2006 academic school year. Due to certain measures to improve not only performance, but also student morale, new measures and new plans began to be introduced by the [[Principal]], and the School Leadership Team. Certain reforms include:

A. The renaming of certain business houses/departments. This was done in order to have a more broader field and more options available to students.

B. The division of teachers--to have certain teachers teach certain business department majors. Meaning all students from a business academy were given the same teacher for all school subjects, including business.

C. The division of houses under one principal, students would only work with those who have their respective major.

D. The attempt to restore the Bergtraum building after 30 years of establishment.

E. A new random scanning policy, which was established in the year 2006 in New York City. The plan calls for [[Metal Detectors]] to randomly appear at any schools in New York City. These scanners would confiscate items that are not allowed in the school premises. Among these items, they include [[MP3 players]], [[cell phones]], electronic devices, etc.

F. The introduction to a strict [[Uniform]] Policy. Often known and refered to as a new step for the school to bring out a more professional, and socially acceptable business school themed enviornment. This policy was rejected once, however parents of students began to push for change, for reformation in the school. Concerns from the Security department based on the dress style of students also caused this issue to be brought up more than once.

G. A new heliocentric and more embracing attitude towards the freshmen. Freshmen are now bundled in lunch periods. During periods 4, 5, 6--freshmen from all of Bergtraum's academies are to have lunch. Leaving most of the rest of the non-freshmen student population with lunch periods 3,7,8. The lunchroom will contain a "full house" every lunch period, basically having the cafeteria at maximum capacity throughout the day.

H. An amplitude examination is taken in order to gain access to Bergtraum. Bergtraum's new examination mocks the [[Specialized High Schools]] examination adminstered in schools such as [[Stuyvesant High School]]. Students who do not recieve an adequate score are not accepted to the school.

I. Students who miss the amplitude examination are also allowed to be interviewed. However, being accepted under those circumstances is also complex. Usually, there is a waiting list of 1,000+. The Graduating Class of [[2010]] currently has 1010 freshmen and is expected to grow.

J. New Assistant Principals are taking the place of those who no longer reside in Bergtraum. Jared Vitolo, for example, is the new assistant principal of mathematics, replacing the controversial Steven Rubenstein. Ms. Claire Panazzolo (Ex AP of Business) has also been replaced with a new male assistant principal. In addition, Ms. Julia Taylor is now the Assistant Principal of Music, replacing Mr. Wayne Gagnon's position and leaving him in charge of English and Fine Arts.

==Courses and programs==
Bergtraum offers many courses to its students, including:
*The [http://www.spaceion.com/ve Virtual Enterprise] Initiative
*The [http://www.spaceion.com RoadsToRiches EntrepreneurNow] Program
*[http://www.litstudies.com/collegenow CollegeNow Program]
*[http://www.microsoft.com/presspass/features/2004/aug04/08-04YouthIT.mspx Microsoft IT Challenge]
*College Extension Program
*Academy of Travel and Tourism

[[Advanced Placement]] courses, which are eligible for college credit, include [[AP Calculus AB|Calculus AB]], [[English Language]] and [[English Literature]], [[Environmental Science]], [[Accounting]], [[AP Computer Science|Computer Science]], [[Spanish Language]] and [[Spanish Literature]], [[Statistics]], [[Microeconomics]], [[United States History]], and [[World History]].

==Partnerships==
Bergtraum has many sponsors, especially in the corporate field, including:
*[[Estee Lauder]]
*[[Royal & Sun Alliance]]
*[[Lehman Brothers]]
*[[Bear Stearns]]
*[[American Express]]
*[[JP Morgan Chase]]
*[[Time Warner Cable]]
*[http://www.nyul.org/ New York Urban League]
*Futures & Options
*The Financial Women's Association
*[[St. John's University]]
*[[Baruch College]]
*[[Hunter College]]
*[[Borough of Manhattan Community College|BMCC]]
*The [[New York University]].
*The [[YWCA]]
*Downtown Beekman Hospital
*The Hispanic Federation of New York


==Extracurricular activities==
==Extracurricular activities==
Bergtraum has many activities for students to participate in. Such activities include the Student Government/Union, Senior Council, Council For Unity, internships on and off site, and more. Academic teams and groups include Math Team, Mock Trial, Moot Court and the National Honor Society. Other clubs include: The Black Student Union, Salsa Club, Chess Club, Chinese Christian Society, Christian Society, Ambassadors Club, Model UN, Chinese Talent Society, West Indian Club, The Political Action Committee and the Asian Club.
<!-- Unsourced image removed: [[Image:CFU.gif|left|thumb|250px|The Council For Unity, founded in Bergtraum during 1996, is one of the 60 clubs to join at Bergtraum.]] -->


===Sports===
Bergtraum has many activities for students to participate in, including the Student Government/Union, Senior Council, [[Council For Unity]], internships on and off site, and more. Academic teams and groups include Math Team, Lincoln Douglas Debate Team, and the [[National Honor Society]]. The more than 60 clubs at Bergtraum include: The Black Student Union, Salsa Club, Chinese Christian Society, Christian Society, Ambassadors Club, Chinese Talent Society, West Indian Club, The Political Action Committee and the Asian Club.
The school participates in the [[Public Schools Athletic League]], including [[basketball]], [[bowling]], [[cross country running|cross country]], [[American handball|handball]], [[tennis]], indoor and outdoor [[Track and field|track]], [[volleyball]], [[softball]], [[baseball]], [[soccer]], and [[wrestling]].

==PSAL sports teams==
The school participates in the [[Public Schools Athletic League]]. The Bergtraum Lady Blazers is the second best girls basketball team in the entire country, and the reigning seven-time city champion. Bergtraum also has other sports teams, including
[[basketball]], [[bowling]], [[cross country running|cross country]], [[handball]], [[tennis]], indoor and outdoor [[Athletics|track]], [[volleyball]], [[softball]], [[baseball]], and [[soccer]].

The Lady Blazers, Bergtraum's Girls [[Basketball]] team is ranked the 2nd best in the [[United States of America]]. Only [[Christ the King Regional High School]] in [[Queens]] is superior to the Lady Blazers.


==Awards and recognition==
==Awards and recognition==
Besides being ranked "A School Of Excellence" by U.S. News & World Report, Bergtraum has won countless awards in the sports area, The Kurt Thomas Investment Challenge, the [http://www.tqnyc.org ThinkQuest Awards], and the [[Lincoln-Douglas Debates]].
The school has been ranked "A School Of Excellence" by ''U.S. News & World Report''.{{citation needed|date=July 2021}} It has also won sports awards, The Kurt Thomas Investment Challenge, the ThinkQuest Awards and the [[Lincoln–Douglas debates]].{{citation needed|date=July 2021}}

ThinkQuest NYC Award winning teams, lead by Ms. D'Amato:
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC062650/ 2006 2nd Place - Catalyst A Literary Magazine]
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC051927/ 2005 1st Place - The Shrouded World After 9/11]
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC051299/ 2005 2nd Place - Shakespear on the Hudson]
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC051339/ 2005 3rd Place - A Literary Odyssey From Homer to James Joyce]
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC040522/ 2004 1st Place - Regents Preparation Handbook]
* [http://www.tqnyc.org/NYC030360/ 2003 1st Place - Using the Conflict Resolution Approach to Analyze Literature]


==Notable alumni==
== Popular culture ==
* [[Afrika Baby Bam]], rapper, [[Jungle Brothers]]
*The [[Xbox 360]] game ''Project Gotham Racer 3'' shows the award winning and unique design of MBHS in many scenarios.
* [[Dennis Bligen]], NFL player
* [[Shannon Bobbitt]], WNBA [[Los Angeles Sparks]] player
* [[Jimmy Cozier]], American R&B singer
* [[Caridad de la Luz]], poet and actress
* [[Jungle Brothers|Mike Gee]], rapper, Jungle Brothers
* [[Vanessa Gibson]], New York City Councilwoman
* [[Brother J]], rapper and member of [[X Clan]]
* [[John Leguizamo]], actor and comedian
* [[Kierna Mayo]], writer, editor, and media executive
* [[Miguel Morales]], 1st season of Top Chef
* [[Ali Shaheed Muhammad]], DJ, producer, and member of [[A Tribe Called Quest]]
* [[Epiphanny Prince]], WNBA [[Chicago Sky]] player
* [[Q-Tip (musician)|Q-Tip]], rapper, producer, actor, and member of A Tribe Called Quest
* [[Damon Wayans]], actor and comedian


==References==
== Notable alumni ==
{{Reflist|30em}}
*[[John Leguizamo]]
*Jonathan Davis, better known as [[Q-Tip (rapper)|Q-Tip]]
*Nathaniel Philip Hall
*[[Cheryl Eng]]
*[[Caridad de la Luz]]
*Willie Crawford
*[[Dr. Nancy S. Kaplan]]
*[[Juan Matos]]
*[[Miguel Morales]]
*[[Francisco S. Navedo]]
*[[Epiphanny Prince]], a Bergtraum women's basketball player, holds national record for scoring in a game.


== Related links ==
==External links==
* {{Wikiquote-inline}}
*[http://www.bergtraum.org Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers Website]
*[http://www.nycboe.net/OurSchools/Region9/M520/default.htm?searchType=school NYCBOE.NET Murry Bergtraum for Business Careers]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20070928214235/http://www.nycboe.net/OurSchools/Region9/M520/default.htm?searchType=school NYCBOE.NET Murry Bergtraum for Business Careers]
*[http://www.insideschools.org/fs/school_profile.php?id=963 Insideschools.org Profile of Murry Bergtraum]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20051229210211/http://www.insideschools.org/fs/school_profile.php?id=963 Insideschools.org Profile of Murry Bergtraum]
*[http://www.nhs.worldofcar.com/ National Honor Society At MBHS]
* [http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/PSPac/index.htm Progressive Student Political Action Club]
* [https://web.archive.org/web/20220606063459/http://www.geocities.com/mbhsny/council Council For Unity/Student Government Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/PSPac/index.htm Progressive Student Political Action Club]
* [http://bergtraum.r9tech.org/home.asp Murry Bergtraum Teachers Online]
*[http://www.geocities.com/mbhsny/council Council For Unity/Student Government Website]
*[http://bergtraum.r9tech.org/home.asp Murry Bergtraum Teachers Online]
* [http://mbhs-alumni.org/ MBHS Alumni Organization]
* [http://www.freepropertylookup.com/mason/Reports/showsection.html?propkey=498 Building profile at PropertyShark.]
*[http://www.geocities.com/bergtraum_voice/home The Bergtraum Voice--Bergtraum's Newspaper Publication]
* [https://nonpartisaneducation.org/Review/Testimonials/v13n1.htm The Dark Side of Education Reform: Students as Victims and the Destruction of a Manhattan High School, Andrea Dupre]
*[http://mbhs-alumni.org/ MBHS Alumni Organization]
*[http://www.geocities.com/mbhsny/murrys_place Murry's Place--Bergtraum's School Store Online]
*[http://www.nysed.gov New York State Education Department]
*[http://www.freepropertylookup.com/mason/Reports/showsection.html?propkey=498 Building profile at PropertyShark.]


{{Education in Manhattan}}
== Department links ==
*[http://computersci.bergtraum.org/ Computer Science Department Website]
*[http://collegeoffice.bergtraum.org/ College Office & Career Center Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/pehealth/info.htm Physical and Health Education Department Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/Guidance/S05Tutoring.mht Tutoring Schedule]
*[http://www.nylearns.org/webpage/Default.aspx?UID=20530 Murry Bergtraum School Library Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/Math/default.htm Mathematics Department Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/depts/Science.htm Science Department Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/Security/default.htm Security & Dean Department Website]
*[http://www.elfrank.com/bergtraum/depts/social_studies.htm Social Studies Department Website]


{{authority control}}
{{New York City DOE Region9}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Bergtraum}}
[[Category:High schools in New York City|Bergtraum]]
[[Category:New York City Department of Education|Bergtraum]]
[[Category:Public high schools in Manhattan]]
[[Category:Public education in New York City|Bergtraum]]
[[Category:Educational institutions established in 1975]]
[[Category:Educational institutions established in 1975|Bergtraum]]
[[Category:1975 establishments in New York (state)]]
[[Category:High schools in New York|Bergtraum]]

Latest revision as of 01:35, 3 October 2024

Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers
Address
Map
411 Pearl Street

New York City
,
New York

United States
Coordinates40°42′40″N 74°00′05″W / 40.71111°N 74.00139°W / 40.71111; -74.00139
Information
TypePublic High School
Established1975
School boardNew York City Public Schools
School district2 (Geographic and Administrative)
School numberM520
PrincipalMs. Joyell Simmons [1][2]
Faculty61.0 FTEs[3]
Grades9–12
Enrollment999 (as of 2014-15)[3]
Student to teacher ratio16.4:1[3]
Color(s)   Red & Gold
AthleticsPSAL
MascotFlash[4]
NicknameBergtraum; MBHS; Murry B
YearbookThe Montague
Websitehttp://schools.nyc.gov/SchoolPortals/02/M520/default.htm

The Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers is a public secondary school in New York City. It is located in Lower Manhattan, adjacent to the Brooklyn Bridge and City Hall. Bergtraum offers business-oriented courses to prepare students for careers in marketing, tourism, finance, human resources, information systems, economics, computer science, law, and secretarial fields. The school also combines its business curriculum with an academic program that gears towards preparation for college. In recent years, the school has been integrating more humanities and liberal arts courses to enrich the school's curriculum.[5]

Murry Bergtraum High School was one of the first business-themed high schools in New York City, and inclusively, the United States. It has two sister schools that share its business theme: Norman Thomas High School (previously known as Central Commercial High School) and the High School of Economics and Finance. Out of the three schools, Murry Bergtraum is the largest of all the business high schools in this category and in the city due to its large, diverse business programs and course offerings.[citation needed]

It remains as one of the few large high schools in New York City as a result of Michael Bloomberg's small-school restructuring projects.[6] It was also exempted from chancellor Joel Klein's citywide uniform curriculum initiated in 2003.[citation needed]

History

[edit]

The school was established in 1975, in memory of Murry Bergtraum, a former President of the New York City Board of Education who died in 1973. Bergtraum joined the Board of Education on May 20, 1969. He was then elected President of the Board of Education from July 1, 1970 to June 30, 1971. His obituary is online at https://www.nytimes.com/1973/11/09/archives/murry-bergtraum-56-president-of-school-board-in-7071-dies-member.html His widow Edith Katz Bergtraum, a public school teacher, was also politically active and a member of her local school board for 19 years. After her death in 1994, an elementary school in Queens (PS 165 in District 25) was renamed in her memory. The name "Bergtraum" originates from the German language. In the English language, it translates to "mountain dream".[7]

Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers was still under construction in 1975 while the first class of freshmen were attending classes at Pace University awaiting the completion of the new high school. While at the Pace campus, an art instructor held a school logo contest. Many designs were submitted by the students. Ultimately the winner chosen by the staff was a student named Norberto Feliciano. The winning school emblem is circular in design with a triangle in the center that represents the schools aerial view shape. The name of the school is within double circles, and the school initials placed within the triangle. Olive branches were placed within the logo as a sign of peace as also seen in the flag of the United Nations. The logo is used on letter heads, notebooks, T-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, team uniforms, and other school-branded items.[citation needed]

Bergtraum was the first academic comprehensive high school with business majors in New York City and one of the first in the United States. It was supported by the Downtown Lower Manhattan Association to prepare young people to enter the world of work and college.[8]

Murry Bergtraum High School, along with other high schools of the Lower Manhattan area were the first schools evacuated during the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center in 2001. Although Bergtraum is located in the Lower East Side section of Manhattan, the school administration ordered an immediate evacuation of the building. The building was evacuated in three minutes. It was the first high school in New York City that had successful evacuation of students.[citation needed]

The school was labeled as a "Ground Zero" school (by the NYFD)--students were relocated to the High School of Art and Design in Upper Manhattan. The Bergtraum administration were unhappy with the relocation and appealed it, and their building was re-opened and students resumed their studies within a few days.[citation needed]

Bergtraum began to face new ideas of reform during the Spring Term of the 2005–2006 academic school year. Due to certain measures to improve both performance and student morale, new measures and new plans began to be introduced by the Principal and the School Leadership Team. Some of the reforms included:

  • The attempt to restore the Bergtraum building after 31 years of establishment.
  • A sharp decrease in the number of students admitted into the school. Incoming freshmen classes averaged to about 900 to 1000 students. As of August 2007, that number is down to approximately 800. The school currently faces a 131% overcrowding rate—that is, there are 36% more students than the building was designed to accommodate.
  • The introduction of a new dress code to bring a more professional environment to the school. Students now follow a mandatory "dress for success" every Wednesday. The school uniform policy has been discontinued.[citation needed]

Bergtraum has had seven principals:

  • Dr. Barbara Christen
  • Elsie Chan
  • Grace Julian
  • Barbara Esmilla, who retired in June 2010
  • Dr. Andrea D. Lewis, who chose to leave in August 2012
  • Lottie Almonte, who was removed in August 2014
  • Naima Cook (incumbent)

Rankings

[edit]
The Murry Bergtraum High School's western wing of the building, as seen from Pace University's Maria Tower

Historically, there has been an average of over 3,000 students at Bergtraum during a given year, and it has been ranked as a "School of Excellence" by U.S. News & World Report since 1999.[9][10] It is well known for its girls' basketball team, having won thirteen consecutive PSAL championships as of 2011.[11] Bergtraum offers majors in business that attracts students from all boroughs; receiving an average of 15,000 to 20,000 applications every year, making it one of the most popular schools in the city of New York. As an educational option school, it takes in students from all academic levels.[12]

The school population is structured as follows:

  • 16% of the school is formed of students who are high performers.
  • 68% of the school is formed of students who are average performers.
  • 16% of the school is formed of students who are low performers.

Bergtraum has also been known for its unusual triangular shape, which leads to only half of the school building having windows. The exterior sides of the building have windows, while the interior portion of the building does not. Despite the design of the building, it stays very warm in the winter and very cool during the summer because of its centralized air-conditioning system.

As of spring 2007, the school would follow a 1-8 schedule, eliminating the 3-10 and leaving very few students with a 2-9 schedule.

As of September 2009, the school began to decrease its enrollment numbers to alleviate the overcrowding rate the school faced. The school's enrollment has dropped significantly from September, 2005 in which it had roughly 3,000 students enrolled. As of July 2009, that number has decreased to 2,589.

School facilities

[edit]

Murry Bergtraum's facilities include:

  • Three Gymnasiums. Two are on the same floor, but offer different electives. This two-in-one gym was constructed to accommodate freshmen and sophomores. The third gym, for juniors, is located on the sixth floor, and focuses on cardiovascular exercise and dance.[13]
  • Two functioning laboratories for science. All biology, chemistry, physics, and marine biology laboratories are done in these two rooms.
  • A library. The Bergtraum library hosts internet service, as well as books, references, and career resources.
  • Computer laboratories. These rooms were once typewriting rooms; the old outlets on the floor mark the school's history.

Student body

[edit]

As of the 2014–15 school year, the school had an enrollment of 999 students and 61.0 classroom teachers (on an FTE basis), for a student–teacher ratio of 16.4:1. There were 677 students (67.8% of enrollment) eligible for free lunch and 42 (4.2% of students) eligible for reduced-cost lunch.[3]

Historically, Bergtraum's programs have catered to minority students, and the trend has not changed much since the school's opening.[14] The ethnic composition is as follows:[15]

Bergtraum has had more females than males in previous years. As of the 2009–2010 school year, 50.83% of Bergtraum students are female and 49.17% of Bergtraum students are male.

The building hosts students with special needs such as mental or physical disabilities, or hearing impairment. Students who use crutches can sometimes be seen throughout the building since the front stairs are not wheelchair accessible.

The school is only one out of two in Lower Manhattan that also gives admittance to English as a Second Language (ESL) students. Out of the 3,000-plus students, 11.97% are ESL students.

Academics

[edit]

Bergtraum has more business courses with more majors than all of the Manhattan business-themed high schools combined. Bergtraum and Norman Thomas High School are the only schools in Manhattan that allow students to concentrate with one major.[citation needed]

Bergtraum has eight business majors, and also allows students to take Career and Technical Education examinations, such as the Microsoft Office Specialist examination.[16] In the accounting major, students who take the Advanced Accounting course can take an exam to obtain Certified Public Accountant qualifications.[17] Bergtraum requires its students have a minimum of 12 business credits upon graduation.

Bergtraum is divided into 8 houses, each house representing a specific major. Students in each house, or department, study in their major for their 4 years in high school. In addition, each student must obtain a minimum of 44-50 credits in order to graduate, regardless of house. In each department, all students are mandated to take a keyboarding/business career exploration course for one year, or two semesters/terms.

Graduation requirements

[edit]

Murry Bergtraum High School students face the same requirements as all students in New York City do. A minimum of 50-54 credits is required to graduate from Bergtraum, however, most of the students graduate with as many as 60 credits. Students are required to study:[18][19][20]

  • 4 years of English, and take the English Language Regents examination at the end of their Junior year.
  • 3 years of Mathematics, and take the Math A and Math B Regents exam, or can substitute specific courses to earn the credits for Math B.
  • 4 years of historical studies, including Global History and American History. Regents exams are taken when the student finishes each course.
  • 3 years of a foreign language. Languages offered include Chinese(Level 3 and 4 only), French, and Spanish.
  • 3 years of science. Regents courses are available for Living Environment Biology, Earth Science, Chemistry, and Physics. Marine Biology is available as an optional course, however no Regents exam is offered. Students must complete at least 2 Regents exams if offered Marine Biology in their freshman year. (In order to qualify for a Regents exam, students must complete 30 hours of laboratory instruction.)
  • 3 and 1/2 years of physical education, and 1/2 a year of health education.
  • 4 years of business study. Passing all business courses is mandated in order to graduate with the Bergtraum seal. Specific business courses will depend on the department the student is in.
  • Half a year of Musical Instruction/Appreciation.
  • Half a year of Art Instruction/Appreciation.
  • Half a year of an Internship based class. Internship classes are held in the school.
  • Work-Based Business Credit. Students who work a specific number of hours each Semester qualify to receive an elective business credit.

Courses and programs

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Courses include:

  • The Virtual Enterprise Initiative
  • The RoadsToRiches EntrepreneurNow Program
  • CollegeNow Program[21]
  • Microsoft IT Challenge – Took 1st Place 2006 (First NY Win)
  • College Extension Program
  • Academy of Travel and Tourism

Advanced Placement courses

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Advanced Placement courses, which are eligible for college credit, include Calculus AB, English language and English literature, environmental science, accounting, United States history, and world history.

Extracurricular activities

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Bergtraum has many activities for students to participate in. Such activities include the Student Government/Union, Senior Council, Council For Unity, internships on and off site, and more. Academic teams and groups include Math Team, Mock Trial, Moot Court and the National Honor Society. Other clubs include: The Black Student Union, Salsa Club, Chess Club, Chinese Christian Society, Christian Society, Ambassadors Club, Model UN, Chinese Talent Society, West Indian Club, The Political Action Committee and the Asian Club.

Sports

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The school participates in the Public Schools Athletic League, including basketball, bowling, cross country, handball, tennis, indoor and outdoor track, volleyball, softball, baseball, soccer, and wrestling.

Awards and recognition

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The school has been ranked "A School Of Excellence" by U.S. News & World Report.[citation needed] It has also won sports awards, The Kurt Thomas Investment Challenge, the ThinkQuest Awards and the Lincoln–Douglas debates.[citation needed]

Notable alumni

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References

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  1. ^ PSAT Letter
  2. ^ Welcome - Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers - M520 - New York City Department of Education. Schools.nyc.gov (2012-01-11). Retrieved on 2013-10-05.
  3. ^ a b c d School data for Murry Bergtraum High School For Business Careers, National Center for Education Statistics. Accessed December 12, 2016.
  4. ^ Bergtraum's PSAL Profile
  5. ^ Inside School's Profile of Murry Bergtraum Archived 2005-12-29 at the Wayback Machine
  6. ^ Financial Women's Association Committees - Mentoring Archived 2009-09-23 at the Wayback Machine. Fwa.org. Retrieved on 2013-10-05.
  7. ^ [1] Archived September 28, 2007, at the Wayback Machine
  8. ^ Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers, M520, Borough of Manhattan, Zip Code 10038
  9. ^ Tnellen
  10. ^ School Review
  11. ^ Murry Bergtraum Wins Record 13th girls 'AA' Title at the Garden
  12. ^ High School Selection Methods - Admissions Process
  13. ^ Physical Education Department Summaries
  14. ^ Black Enterprise - Google Books
  15. ^ Murry Bergtraum High School for Business Careers' Student Register
  16. ^ Listing of Career and Technical Education Programs of - New York City
  17. ^ https://professionals.collegeboard.com/k-12/assessment/clep/success [CLEP - Success Stories]
  18. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on March 7, 2010. Retrieved April 26, 2010.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  19. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on March 7, 2010. Retrieved April 26, 2010.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  20. ^ "Archived copy" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on May 28, 2010. Retrieved April 26, 2010.{{cite web}}: CS1 maint: archived copy as title (link)
  21. ^ Bergtraum's College Now
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