Newcomer Welcome Page

🌎 Welcome, Newcomer Students!

Welcome to Diamond Bar High School! We are excited to have you join our school community.

Starting at a new school in a new country can feel overwhelming — but you are not alone. Our ELD program is here to support you every step of the way as you adjust to your classes, learn English, and get involved in school life.

On this page, you will find helpful information about:

How high school works in the United States
Graduation requirements
School schedules and bell times
How to use Google Classroom and AERIES
Clubs, sports, and ways to get involved
Who to contact if you need help

We believe that your language, culture, and experiences are strengths. Our goal is to help you feel confident, supported, and successful at DBHS.

Welcome to Brahma Nation — we’re glad you’re here!

Get to Know Diamond Bar High School

Locations and People to Know at Diamond Bar High School

🏫 How High School Works in the United States

High school in the U.S. is usually four years:

9th Grade – Freshman
10th Grade – Sophomore
11th Grade – Junior
12th Grade – Senior

Students take different classes each year and earn credits for passing each course.

Grades are usually given as:

A (Excellent)
B (Good)
C (Average)
D (Below Average – Passing but not strong)
F (Failing – No credit earned)

Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is based on your grades.

Students are expected to:

Attend class every day
Complete homework
Participate in class
Ask for help when needed

🎓 Graduation Requirements

To graduate, students must earn a certain number of credits in different subjects such as:

English
Math
Science
Social Science
Physical Education
Electives

If you plan to attend a 4-year university (UC/CSU), you must complete A–G requirements.

Your counselor will help you understand your graduation plan.

⏰ School Schedules & Bell Times

Students have a daily schedule with multiple periods (classes).

Each class:

Has a teacher
Meets at a specific time
Has assignments and homework

You can find your schedule in:

AERIES
Student schedule printout that your GLC will give you

Always check your schedule carefully at the start of each semester.

💻 How to Use AERIES & Google Classroom

📊 AERIES

AERIES shows:

Your grades
Attendance
Class schedule

Students should check AERIES weekly to monitor grades.

If you see a D or F, speak to your teacher immediately.

📘 Google Classroom

Teachers post:

Assignments
Announcements
Class materials

Students should:

Check Google Classroom daily
Turn in assignments online
Read teacher instructions carefully

If you cannot access a class, ask your teacher for their Google Classroom code.

📧 How to Email Your Teacher

✅ Step 1: Find Your Teacher’s Email

Go to the DBHS Staff Directory:

👉 https://dbhs.wvusd.org/apps/staff/

Type your teacher’s name in the search bar
Click on their name
Find their school email address

Make sure you spell your teacher’s name correctly when searching.

✅ Step 2: Use a Clear Subject Line

Your subject line should explain why you are emailing.

Examples:

Question About Homework – Period 2
Missing Assignment – Algebra
Absence on September 15

✅ Step 3: Start with a Greeting

Always begin politely.

Examples:

Dear Ms. Lopez,
Hello Mr. Kim,
Good afternoon Dr. Patel,

✅ Step 4: Introduce Yourself

Teachers have many students. Always include:

Your full name
Your class period

Example:
“My name is Sofia Hernandez, and I am in your 3rd period World History class.”

✅ Step 5: Clearly Explain Your Question

Be specific and respectful.

Examples:

“I was absent yesterday and I checked Google Classroom and there were no assignments. Did I miss anything?”
"I was marked absent on 2/15, but I was in class. I was just in the bathroom when you took attendance."
“May I attend office hours this week?”