Is it just a school building or a place where history and community intertwine? That is Henry P. Becton Regional High School. Let’s dive into the story of this educational landmark.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School serves students from Carlstadt, East Rutherford and Maywood. It stands as a beacon of learning. The school is located on Paterson Avenue. It is near the border of Carlstadt and Route 17.
The story begins with a tragedy. A fire destroyed half of East Rutherford High School in 1966. This event spurred the creation of a regional school district. In June 1968, a referendum led to the district’s formation.
The new high school needed a name. Henry Becton was chairman of Becton, Dickinson and Company. He donated land for the school’s construction. The school was named in his honor. The building was designed to accommodate 1100 students. The construction cost $4.3 million. That is equivalent to $32.4 million in 2023. Henry P. Becton Regional High School opened in September 1971. About 800 students attended.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School has evolved over the years. In 2018, the New Jersey Department of Education recognized the school. It was a model high school due to academic success. Career-focused programs also helped. The school instituted a flexible class schedule. They also added career internships and digital learning upgrades. As a result, the graduation rate increased significantly.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School has a rich history. The school has a weekly newspaper called Cat’s Eye View. The yearbook is The Tealeaf. They also publish Images. This is an annual art and literary magazine.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School offers many extracurricular activities. Students can participate in clubs like Horticulture Club and Political Science Club. There is also a Gaming Club. Athletics are a big part of the school. The Henry P. Becton Wildcats compete in the North Jersey Interscholastic Conference. The school colors are maroon and white.
The football team has a storied past. They won state sectional championships in 1974, 1993 and 2003. The baseball team also achieved significant success. They won consecutive North I Group I state titles in 2002, 2003 and 2004.
The bowling team has a history of championships. They have won multiple BCSL National titles. They were also State Group I champions in 2007.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School faced controversy in 1994. The school tried to allow a handicapped athlete to compete. He wanted to use a wheelchair in track events. A judge ruled against it.
Henry P. Becton Regional High School continues to evolve. It adapts to the needs of its students and community. From its humble beginnings after a devastating fire to its current status as a model high school, Henry P. Becton Regional High School stands as a testament to resilience, community and the enduring power of education.