IRVINE - During the month of March, Beckman Patriots participated in Pennies for Patients, during which students donated pennies to their fifth period class in an effort to raise money to for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. The class with the most amount of money will be given a pizza party. Prizes such as computers, electronics and sports equipment are presented to the top schools. Since 1994, millions of dollars in coins has been raised by more than 10 million elementary, middle, and high schools throughout the country.

ASB promoted Pennies for Patients and brought their enthusiasm for the cause to the Beckman campus. ASB student Morgan Helmstetter commented, “Beckman High School is all about raising money for the community and it not only looks great but feels great to every student who helped raise funds.”  This is a fundraiser that lasts for three weeks and usually takes place in the spring. Bionca Chi, another ASB student, commented, “This fundraiser is from the beginning of March till March 27. We thought that would give students enough time to raise money and become aware of the cause.” Last year Beckman High School collected 2,000 dollars, going beyond the goal of 1,500 dollars. The goal for BHS Patriots this year is 500 dollars. Helmstetter commented, “Counting the money is very long and tiresome, but completely worth it when you know that you are helping a great cause.” Chi commented, “We take all of the coins collected to the Coinstar, a charity, and from there they send the money to the Leukemia and Lymphoma Association.” The Coinstar is a charity organization that does not take a percentage of the collected money; rather, they only serve to count the coins for the full benefit of the society.

Among the BHS staff, Mr. McGill was one of the teachers that won the competition last year. Mr. McGill said, “While I was surprised that I actually won given my competition, I was gratified that Beckman students were willing and eager to contribute to a worthy cause.”  As the winner, Mr. McGill had to wear an outfit that represented him. He commented, “Wearing a kilt was admittedly not too difficult. Nonetheless, there were students who do not know who I am who gave me, shall I say, interesting looks.” His class came through last year and hopefully will contribute this year as well. Mr. McGill said, “Although I won last year, my classes have yet to contribute this year.”  He continued, “I think it is a testament to the spirit of competition. The friendly competition among the staff seemed to generate more attention to the cause. I am interested to see how the proceeds from the drive this year compare with last year's total.”  Hopefully more and more students will contribute to the organization in helping those in need.