Yes, we have a rigorous academic curriculum. We also have state championship athletic teams. Let’s not forget our top-notched bands and choirs, our tremendous theatre groups and our award-winning TV studio. Have I mentioned our drawing and painting classes or jewelry and pottery classes yet? What about our five foreign languages we offer or our first class yearbook or journalism classes? Multi-media, life-guarding, sports medicine, structural engineering, and school store are a few more of our favorites. And the list goes on and on. These are just some of the advantages students have here at Rockford High School (RHS). Certainly these opportunities are wonderful and exciting, but what I wish to draw your attention to are the lesser known opportunities our students have here at RHS to get involved and feel a part of something positive.

Many of RHS after-school clubs and activities are well-established and have been around for years. Some of our more popular clubs include: art club, diversity club, student council, youth initiative, yearbook club and fellowship of Christian athletes. These clubs are run by teachers in our buildings who have a special interest and passion in a particular area of interest. Other teachers have been asked by students who have a particular interest in an area to lead a group. These groups include: amnesty club, amine club, debate, German, Spanish, lacrosse, movie and photo clubs. Of particular interest this year has been the young democrats and young republican clubs. I hope by now the message is clear: If you have an interest or desire to start or join a club, you are welcome to do so! Our goal is to get many students involved both during the school day as well as outside of the traditional school day.

Many of these clubs meet once a week for an hour or so after school. Several of them, including youth initiative and student council, require more of a time commitment. Again, we aim to please and to meet the needs of as many students as possible.

Of course there are many reasons why we feel it important for students to get involved in these organizations. Meeting new friends, performing community service, learning and enjoying a particular passion, etc. But colleges are looking for students who are well-rounded in their education, too. It quite simply can set you apart on a college or job application. The idea in all of this is to find something you enjoy and get involved!

The main office has a list of clubs that are up and running for the current school year to our students in grades 9-12. If you don’t find what you are looking for on the list, make your own club! It really is that simple. Approach a teacher and inquire or come to the main office and visit with one of the assistant principals. Anyone of us would be happy to get you started in this process. Nothing is stopping you, so go get involved!