In February of the 2023-2024 school year, Jennifer Beckmann Brown filled out an online application to potentially become the first Howell assistant activities director and dean of students. Formerly an English teacher and girls’ softball coach at Howell, Beckmann used her experience with sports and student communication to land the position in March, after going through multiple interviews.
“I saw it as an opportunity to support more students, teachers and coaches,” Beckmann said. “I took that chance to go through the interview process to help improve the environment at Howell.”
Beckmann’s role is diverse, with two different jobs coming together as one. Her role as a dean is similar to the other principals.
“As a dean, I’m responsible for more of the academics side,” Beckmann said. “I have an alpha set of students I’m responsible for by last name. I make sure they’re all staying on top of school, maintaining their grades, and not having any behavior issues.”
The role of an assistant activities director is working with Sean Erwin, the head of activities, on coaches’ compliance, which is monitoring all MSHSAA rules and regulations.
“Beckmann is responsible for ensuring our coaches have certifications through the district,” Erwin said. “Some required certifications are first aid, CPR, concussion training and mental health training. Coaches, staff and volunteers must complete these once a year, so she ensures that all of them have.”
Along with her tasks on campus, Beckmann attends several off-campus events with Erwin as well.
“Just the other day, I was over at Chesterfield to watch the softball game,” Beckmann said. “They were hosting a tournament where they played against some Oklahoma teams.”
She also helps lead a new program, the Viking Participant Advisory Committee (VPAC).
“Beckmann and I run the committee, which is made up of a bunch of students who were nominated by their club sponsor or coach. It aims to create a space where students can provide feedback on fall activities, clubs and sports,” Erwin said. “The primary goal is to improve the experiences and opportunities for all participants.”
Beckmann will continue monitoring Howell both on and off campus throughout the year.
“So far, I love this position because it’s different from what I’m used to,” Beckmann said. “I miss teaching books because I love reading, but it’s a whole new way of interacting with every student.”
