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A community engagement initiative of Benton CCSD 47.

Fall | 2025

Playful Steps: Beckham House Begins His School Journey

With a grin that lights up his face and an eagerness to share about his day, kindergartener Beckham House makes it clear that school is an adventure he’s ready to enjoy. At just five years old, Beckham is already showing the bright spirit and energy that make him stand out in his classroom.


Beckham is the middle child in his family. His older brother, Graham, is in first grade, and his younger sister, Bentley, is just beginning to walk and talk. “She’s the baby one,” Beckham explained proudly, noting that her very first word was “dad.” He enjoys being a big brother as much as he looks up to Graham, who isn’t far ahead of him in school. Together, the brothers share lunchroom stories and playground time, though Beckham insists he can already do a lot on his own. “I already knew how to do it,” he said confidently when asked about his very first day walking into school.


His mom drives him to school each morning, and Beckham strides into Mrs. Davis’s kindergarten class ready to take on the day. He likes his teacher and has already settled into the rhythm of lessons, activities, and play. “My favorite thing about school is lunch and outside,” he said with a laugh, proving that some priorities are universal at any age. While he has tried the school trays, he prefers the lunches his mom packs for him, especially when she tucks in cookies—chocolate chip, of course, his favorite.


The cafeteria, with its many voices and busy tables, doesn’t intimidate him. Beckham finds comfort in sitting with friends, knowing Graham is nearby in his own grade. Recess is another highlight, where he loves to race his classmates across the playground. “I like racing people,” he explained. “I’m fast.” For a boy his age, the playground is a world of possibilities, filled with laughter, running, and games that change with each day.


Academically, Beckham is making strides. He can already recite the alphabet from A to Z and count all the way to one hundred. He proudly spells small words like “the” and beams with pride at his progress. He admits that reading is something he’s still learning, but his eagerness shows he’s well on his way. Lessons in his classroom often include interactive videos, songs, and activities that keep the pace lively. Beckham especially enjoys using the smart board, a tool that feels like a mix between television and drawing pad. “You can draw on it,” he explained, his excitement clear.


Part of Beckham’s confidence comes from being the son of a teacher. His mom, Katie Cox, teaches fourth-grade special ed at Benton, so school feels like a second home in more ways than one. It’s no surprise, then, that Beckham walks the halls with ease and has the comfort of knowing his family is close by.


Outside of school, Beckham’s interests reflect the same mix of energy and imagination. He loves riding his massive toy car, which has two seats and even a key. He also enjoys playing basketball on a shorter hoop that suits his age and size.


Travel has also given Beckham exciting stories to share. Before kindergarten began, he spent part of his summer on Tybee Island, splashing in the ocean and soaking up beach days. His family also made a trip to Chicago, an adventure Beckham remembers with wide-eyed enthusiasm. “It just took one day to get there,” he said, noting the long drive with pride.


Holidays are another highlight in Beckham’s young life. Easter, Halloween, and Christmas all rank at the top of his list. He already has his Halloween costumes planned, with Sully from Monsters, Inc. topping the list this year. His brother, Graham, will be Mike Wazowski, making them a perfect pair. Last year, Beckham dressed as a police officer while Graham and Bentley played the part of robbers, a memory that still makes him smile. Next year, he’s already imagining costumes ranging from Yoda to Darth Vader to Goku, proof that his imagination is as active as his feet on the playground.


For Beckham House, kindergarten is just the beginning of what promises to be a bright school journey. With his love of learning, his fearless spirit, and his joyful approach to each day, he is already embracing everything that comes with being a student. Whether he’s racing across the playground, showing off his counting skills, or dreaming up his next Halloween costume, Beckham is proof that even the earliest steps in school can be filled with excitement, laughter, and promise.

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