Time for clubs and co-curricular experiences
Like counseling, clubs generally do not require a daily or weekly spot in the master schedule unless faculty advisers have regular duties. Nonetheless, parents generally appreciate schools that recognize the importance of clubs and extra-curricular offerings for their middle grades students. Many middle schools provide lunchtime co-curricular activities such as intramural sports, spirit and academic competitions, student-sponsored games and entertainment, as well as clubs such as robotics, chess, and drill team.
Although schools may make clubs available outside the school day, such offerings exclude students who have no transportation for before- and after-school events.
In the Spotlight
Clark Intermediate School, Clovis Unified School District, a 2009 Schools to Watch™-Taking Center Stage 2009 Model School
Co-curricular involvement is literally a requirement at Clark. One Friday a month at Clark is dedicated to a Club Schedule (seminar and assembly/elective) where every student attends a club of his/her choice. In addition, the zero period PE option allows a student to take his/her PE class and marching band before school, freeing time for additional electives and support classes during the scheduled day. Through strategic scheduling, students are offered an opportunity to explore personal interests, topics important to their own lives and experiences, and career options.
Club choices at Clark include duck calling, modified cars, competitive athletics, award-winning bands, and choirs. Several teams are offered in football, volleyball, basketball, softball, and baseball. Instrumental music offers marching and symphonic bands and orchestra. Choir choices include both a boys and girls choir in addition to a sotto voce, concert, and chamber choir options. The drama department offers a musical and dramatic production each year and an advanced class for students with a special interest in drama. The Folklorico Dancers and the Hmong Dancers offer students a chance to represent and increase appreciation of their culture each year. In addition, the school supports an ongoing Multicultural Club which is open to all students and represents all of the diverse cultures on campus.
In the Spotlight
Reyburn Intermediate School, Clovis Unified School District
Eensures that clubs and enrichment classes are available to all students. Reyburn staff members designed a once-a-month enrichment afternoon schedule. On that day, all students and all faculty members sign up for and participate in one of many clubs and elective courses.
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Time for electives
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