Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Barbara Goleman Senior High School: Excellence in Education and Community
Located in Miami Lakes, Florida, Barbara Goleman Senior High School is a public secondary school that embodies a tradition of academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Since opening its doors in 1995, the school has grown into one of the leading educational institutions in Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS), providing students with a wide range of academic, extracurricular, and career preparatory opportunities.
With a strong focus on student success and a supportive environment, Barbara Goleman Senior High School (often abbreviated as BGHS or simply “Goleman”) is dedicated to preparing students for college, careers, and life beyond high school.
A Tribute in a Name: Honoring an Educational Leader: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Barbara Goleman Senior High is named after Barbara Goleman, a renowned Miami-Dade educator who devoted her life to improving public education. Known for her commitment to educational equity and student advocacy, she played an instrumental role in shaping district policy and advancing teacher leadership.
The school was founded with a mission to carry on her legacy—one that prioritizes student potential, academic rigor, and social responsibility.
School Overview
-
Established: 1995
-
School District: Miami-Dade County Public Schools
-
Grades: 9–12
-
Mascot: Gators
-
School Colors: Green and Gold
-
Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 students
Academic Programs
Barbara Goleman Senior High offers a comprehensive academic curriculum that meets the needs of a diverse student body. Whether students are aiming for Ivy League universities, community colleges, or direct-to-work career paths, BGHS provides a robust foundation.
1. Honors and Advanced Placement (AP)
Students can challenge themselves through a wide range of Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) courses, including:
-
AP English Literature & Composition
-
AP Calculus AB & BC
-
AP U.S. History and Government
-
AP Biology and Chemistry
-
AP Psychology
-
AP Spanish Language and Literature
These rigorous courses prepare students for college-level work and provide opportunities to earn college credit while still in high school.
2. Dual Enrollment: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Through partnerships with Miami Dade College and Florida International University, Goleman students can enroll in college courses and receive both high school and college credits simultaneously. This opportunity helps students get a head start on their higher education goals and reduces the cost of college tuition.
3. Cambridge AICE Program
Goleman is a designated Cambridge International School, offering the prestigious AICE (Advanced International Certificate of Education) program. Developed by the University of Cambridge in England, AICE promotes advanced academic thinking, critical analysis, and global awareness.
Magnet Academies and Career Pathways
BGHS features specialized career academies and magnet tracks designed to help students explore fields of interest and develop marketable skills.
1. Business and Entrepreneurship: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Students gain exposure to:
-
Accounting and finance
-
Marketing and management
-
Business law
-
Entrepreneurship projects
-
Microsoft Office Specialist certification
2. Digital Media and Technology: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Courses in this academy focus on:
-
Graphic design
-
Web development
-
Video production
-
Animation and digital storytelling
-
Adobe Creative Suite certification
3. Health Science and Medical Technologies
Pre-med and healthcare-oriented students explore:
-
Anatomy & Physiology
-
Health and nutrition
-
Emergency medical responder training
-
Medical terminology and clinical experiences
Students may graduate with CPR certification or complete internships in hospitals and clinics.
4. Legal and Public Affairs: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Designed for future lawyers, government officials, or civil servants, this program covers:
-
Mock trial and debate
-
Legal writing
-
Forensic science
-
Criminal justice fundamentals
Exceptional Student Education (ESE) and Support Services
Goleman is an inclusive school with a wide range of services for students with learning disabilities, developmental needs, or emotional support requirements. ESE teachers work alongside general education staff to tailor instruction and ensure all students can thrive.
School Culture and Student Life: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
The school fosters an environment of inclusion, school spirit, and leadership development.
Student Government and Leadership
Leadership opportunities also exist in organizations like:
-
National Honor Society (NHS)
-
Key Club
-
Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society)
-
Thespian Society
-
Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)
Clubs and Activities
Students can choose from dozens of extracurricular clubs and interest groups, such as:
-
Robotics Club
-
GTV (Goleman TV broadcasting)
-
Environmental Club
-
Debate Team
-
Chess Club
-
Anime and Film Appreciation Clubs
These groups offer students a sense of belonging and chances to grow outside the classroom.
Athletics: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
As part of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA), Barbara Goleman’s athletic program emphasizes sportsmanship, discipline, and teamwork.
Offered Sports:
-
Football
-
Basketball (boys and girls)
-
Baseball and Softball
-
Soccer (boys and girls)
-
Volleyball
-
Track & Field
-
Cross Country
-
Wrestling
-
Swimming
-
Tennis
-
Cheerleading
Goleman’s teams, known as the Gators, have earned numerous district and regional titles, with student-athletes going on to compete at the collegiate level.
Arts and Creative Programs: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
In addition to academics and athletics, Goleman is committed to the visual and performing arts. Students can enroll in:
-
Visual Art and Studio Drawing
-
Chorus and Band
-
Theatre and Drama
-
Photography and Digital Arts
The school’s drama productions and art exhibits are widely attended by the community and consistently receive accolades at district competitions.
Academic and Civic Achievements
Barbara Goleman has earned:
-
An “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education for multiple years
-
Recognition as a School of Excellence
-
College Board AP Honor Roll inclusion
-
District and state titles in academic competitions such as Science Olympiad and Model UN
Guidance and Counseling
BGHS offers comprehensive guidance services including:
-
College application and financial aid counseling
-
Mental health services and crisis intervention
-
Career exploration and resume writing
-
Dual enrollment and AICE advising
-
Academic intervention and tutoring resources
Seniors receive personalized support throughout the college admissions and scholarship application processes.
Parent and Community Engagement: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Barbara Goleman actively encourages parent involvement through:
-
PTSA (Parent Teacher Student Association)
-
Monthly workshops and webinars
-
College and career nights
-
Volunteer opportunities
-
Community service events
The school has built strong ties with local organizations and businesses, enhancing internship and mentorship opportunities.
Campus and Facilities
BGHS sits on a spacious, well-maintained campus that includes:
-
Modern classrooms with smartboard technology
-
Science and computer labs
-
Gymnasium and sports fields
-
Auditorium and performing arts stage
-
Cafeteria and outdoor seating areas
-
Media center with research databases and maker spaces
The school also emphasizes digital learning, with Chromebook distribution programs and online platforms like Edmodo and Microsoft Teams integrated into instruction.
Alumni and Legacy: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Goleman alumni have gone on to:
-
Attend top universities such as Harvard, UF, FSU, and Columbia
-
Serve in the military and public service
-
Become entrepreneurs, artists, and healthcare professionals
-
Win national and international awards in film, design, and science
Many alumni return to speak at career days and mentor students, reinforcing the school’s culture of giving back.
School Spirit and Traditions
Barbara Goleman is a school with deep-rooted traditions that foster unity and pride:
-
Gator Growl pep rallies
-
Homecoming Week with themed days and dances
-
Senior Sunrise & Sunset
-
Multicultural Day showcasing student heritage
-
College Signing Day for student-athletes and scholars
-
Annual Cap & Gown Parade
Looking Ahead: Barbara Goleman Senior High School
Barbara Goleman Senior High School continues to grow and adapt to the changing educational landscape. Through new academic initiatives, technology integration, and community partnerships, Goleman remains committed to excellence and opportunity for all students.
As it prepares students for the challenges and innovations of the future, Barbara Goleman remains anchored in its mission—to educate, empower, and elevate every student who walks through its doors.
In case, if you need help with Homestay and Guardianship for students in order to study in Barbara Goleman Senior High School or other schools in the US, please fill in application below or contact us directly.