Clubs & Activities
LET'S GET INVOLVED
West Aurora High School Student Activities, clubs and Organizations
ALL Clubs and Organizations are open membership, unless otherwise indicated:
* Must be invited or audition to join
**Can join if you are a part of the class
Competitive Clubs
| Club | Staff | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Academic Challenge | N. Gross (Math) |
To gain a deeper appreciation of Science and Engineering through contests and group activities (formerly titled WYSE) Schoology Access Code: RMCQW-582CN Contact: Mrs. Gross, ngross@sd129.org |
| AFJROTC Drill Team** |
S. Hellinger / E. Pettyjohn (AFJROTC) |
To enable a team to move as a cohesive unit in an orderly manner. It aids in disciplinary training by instilling habits of precision and response to a leader’s orders, which then provides the development of strong character, attention to detail, and excellence. CAN ONLY JOIN IF IN CLASS Contact: Sgt. Hellinger, shellinger@sd129.org OR Lt. Col. Pettyjohn, epettyjohn@sd129.org |
| Bass Fishing Team | W. Loftus (Weisner Center)/TBD |
For students who want to develop fishing skills in a competitive setting Schoology Access Code: VWBR-43RK-B9D98 Contact: Mr. Loftus, william.loftus@sd129.org |
| BPA | C. Bourjaily (CTE) |
For students who are interested in computers, business skills or career prep Schoology Access Code: 64ZH9-B5PHP Contact: Mr. Bourjaily, chris.bourjaily@sd129.org |
|
Chess Team
|
S. Carroll (Social Studies) |
To learn / perfect the game of chess & increase strategic thinking Schoology Access Code: PG2K3-GN35J Contact: Mr. Carroll, samcarroll@sd129.org |
| Debate Team | C. White (English) |
To develop skills in defending one's opinion in a competitive setting Schoology Access Code: 6K86-CM4C-HVKMN Contact: Ms. White, cynthia.white@sd129.org |
| DECA | D. Hafer / J. Whiteaker (CTE) |
For career exploration in marketing, management and entrepreneurship Schoology Access Code: 5V24X-4MPFB Contact: Mr. Hafer, dhafer@sd129.org OR Mrs. Whiteaker, jennifer.whiteaker@sd129.org |
| E-Sports | J. Favela (Diversified) |
Participate in a multiplayer video games played competitively for spectators. We turn gaming into a sport! Schoology Access Code: VS2R-DTZG-5R5KR Contact: Mr. Favela, jfavela@sd129.org |
| FCCLA | K. Armstrong / B. Thomas (CTE) |
To explore careers in Family and Consumer Sciences Schoology Access Code: WQT5R-TF2P6 Contact: Ms. Armstrong, karmstrong@sd129.org OR Ms. Thomas, brittany.thomas@sd129.org |
| HOSA** | A. Sonnefeldt (CTE) |
To promote career opportunities in the health care industry and to enhance the delivery of quality health care to all people CAN ONLY JOIN IF IN CLASS Contact: Mrs. Sonnefeldt, asonnefeldt@sd129.org |
| Mathletes | M. Love / N. Gross / K. Prince (Math) |
To gain a deeper appreciation of math through contest / group activities Schoology Access Code: RMCQW-582CN Contact: Mr. Love, mlove@sd129.org, Mrs. Gross, ngross@sd129.org, OR Ms. Prince, kprince@sd129.org |
| Scholastic Bowl Team | J. Payne (Science) |
To compete in a Jeopardy-like team against other schools Contact: Mr. Payne, joshua.payne@sd129.org |
| Skills USA | K. Phillips (CTE) |
SkillsUSA Illinois is a state and national membership association serving high school students who are preparing for careers in trade, technical and skilled service occupations, including health occupations, and for further education. SkillsUSA is a professional organization that is designed to be run by students, for their own growth and benefit. SkillsUSA members develop into well-rounded people with technical, academic and employability skills that will help them get a job and have a successful career. Through chapter meetings, contests, leadership conferences and activities, students will be building these skills. Learn more here: https://sites.google.com/sd129.org/skillsusa/home Schoology Access Code: ND3KX-P82QR Contact: Ms. Phillips, kphillips@sd129.org |
| StellarXplorers* | S. Freitag (CTE) / E. Pettyjohn (AFJROTC) |
To function as a team in a competitive environment, solve complex engineering problems, and develop critical thinking skills. Subject matter focuses on creative solutions to optimize satellite design and launch planning. Contact: Mr. Freitag, sfreitag@sd129.org OR Lt. Col. Pettyjohn, epettyjohn@sd129.org |
Performance Based Clubs
| Club | Staff | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Band** | P. Sampson / R. Schueller / J. Sierakowski (Fine Arts) |
To provide entertainment and develop skills in music; taken as an elective CAN ONLY JOIN IF IN CLASS Contact: Dr. Schueller, rschueller@sd129.org; Ms. Sampson, psampson@sd129.org; OR Mr. Sierakowski, jsierakowski@sd129.org |
| Choir** | B. Smith (Fine Arts) |
To develop skills and appreciation for singing; taken as an elective CAN ONLY JOIN IF IN CLASS Contact: Mr. Smith, briansmith@sd129.org |
| Comedy Club | TBD |
A student group who writes, casts and performs an annual sketch comedy show. Schoology Access Code: TBD Contact: TBD |
| Drama Club | K. Ruffalo (English) |
To provide opportunities for backstage, onstage and theater activities Schoology Access Code: D6G77-FC4BV
|
| Madrigals* | B. Smith (Fine Arts) |
To develop skills and appreciation for music through madrigal music CAN ONLY JOIN IF IN CLASS Contact: Mr. Smith, briansmith@sd129.org |
| Step Team* | T. Towles (Diversified) / T. Walls (Ambition House) |
To be part of a competitive spirit squad which uses rhythmic sounds in a drill team fashion Schoology Access Code: WNJX5-XH7CN Contact: Mrs. Towles, ttowles@sd129.org OR Mrs. Walls, twalls@sd129.org |
After School Clubs
| Club | Staff | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Above The Influence | M. Mikos (P.E.) |
Encourages students to remain “above the influence” of Drugs, Alcohol, Distracted Driving and other Negative Influences that teens face in today’s society Schoology Access Code: QKTK-D6HV-GDBJW Contact: Ms. Mikos, madison.mikos@sd129.org |
| Alianza Hispana | O. Delahoya (World Languages) |
To promote cultural pride and influences that shape the Hispanic community Schoology Access Code: NN22W-F2S5G Contact: Mr. Delahoya, odelahoya@sd129.org |
| American Sign Language (ASL) Club | K. Szkola (Diversified) |
To increase awareness and knowledge of communicating with individuals who are deaf and hard of hearing Schoology Access Code: SKNBD-NM3HR Contact: Ms. Szkola, kszkola@sd129.org |
| Anime Club | M. Pierzchala (AFJROTC) |
To provide opportunities to explore the world of anime Schoology Access Code: JXPHN-Q3Q46 Contact: SMSgt. Pierzchala, mpierzchala@sd129.org |
|
BE (Biblical Escape) |
C. Sendzimer (World Languages) |
A student-led club that brings fellowship and fun, offering an escape of the busyness of high school by reading the Bible and talking about God Schoology Access Code: F79P-P2HQ-25TWC Contact: Mrs. Sendzimer, csendzimer@sd129.org |
| Blackhawk Spikeball Association (BSA) | K. Burke / J. Favela / C. Ranallo / J. Tokarz (Diversified / P.E.) |
A club for students to learn and play the sport of Spikeball Schoology Access Code: NNCN-V7GC-PQS48 Contacts: Mr. Burke, kburke@sd129.org; Mr. Favela, jfavela@sd129.org; Mr. Ranallo, cranallo@sd129.org; OR Mr. Tokarz, jtokarz@sd129.org |
| Black Student Union (BSU) | T. Walls (Ambition House) |
To promote cultural pride and explore influences that shape the African-American community Schoology Access Code: FXMZV-M82KX Contact: Mrs. Walls, twalls@sd129.org |
| Book Club | C. Sparks (Library) / N. Romanov (World Languages) |
To read and discuss books to promote the love of reading and critical thinking Schoology Access Code: 2R5BX-D7GGH Contact: Mrs. Sparks, csparks@sd129.org OR Ms. Romanov, nicole.romanov@sd129.org |
| Breakthrough | C. Tammen (Social Studies) / B. Farren (English) |
A student-led Christian/Catholic club that brings in guest speakers and worship leaders, attends concerts and conferences, and participates in community service and outreach events Schoology Access Code: Q7PVW-KXJWB Contacts: Ms. Tammen, ctammen@sd129.org OR Mrs. Farren, bfarren@sd129.org |
| Broadcasting Club | S. Tait (Auditorium) |
To teach broadcasting skills and practice them at school events. Schoology Access Code: RHNZX-T7M4R Contact: Mr. Tait, stait@sd129.org |
|
Clay Club |
E. Bogucki (Fine Arts) |
To develop or expand on skills creating pottery and other clay artwork. Schoology Access Code: 9ZSRK-RQ8MJ Contact: Mrs. Bogucki, ebogucki@sd129.org |
| Creative Media Club | S. Schultz (Fine Arts) |
To engage students who exhibit interest and talent in photography, filming and handling PA equipment. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skills through training programs such as video editing, short film projects, photography, exhibitions, field trips and competitions. Schoology Access Code: V8F4-Q8SQ-MM7FM Contact: Mr. Schultz, sschultz@sd129.org |
| Creative Writing Club | C. Hill (English) |
An opportunity to share your poetry or short stories and learn about upcoming writing competitions and events Schoology Access Code: WPBGK-8BKTJ Contact: Mrs. Hill, chill@sd129.org |
| Educators Rising | J. Coy (P.E.) |
To provide an atmosphere for those students who want to be educators Schoology Access Code: Z32QJ-7BSHS Contact: Mrs. Coy, jcoy@sd129.org |
| Empowered Women of the Future | T. Shepard / R. Hanafin (English) |
To empower the young women at West High to discover their voices and make them known in our school, community, state and country to promote social justice Schoology Access Code: MV2T-8QWX-DJKXM Contact: Mrs. Shepard, tshepard@sd129.org OR Ms. Rios, mayra.rios@sd129.org |
| Engineering Club | S. Freitag / D. Hammarberg (CTE) |
To influence more knowledge and creativity for students interested in engineering as a career Schoology Access Code: SW4JT-RWZFJ Contacts: Mr. Freitag, sfreitag@sd129.org OR Mr. Hammarberg, dhammarberg@sd129.org |
| French Club | A. Schultz (World Languages) |
To learn about the French culture and language Schoology Access Code: 5C56G-HGXGT Contact: Mrs. Schultz, aschultz@sd129.org |
| French Honor Society* | A. Schultz (World Languages) |
To promote scholarship and to recognize high honor achievement in the French language Contact: Mrs. Schultz, aschultz@sd129.org |
| Games Club | M. Persons (English) |
To provide opportunities for gaming - both board and interactive Schoology Access Code: HXJ83-75BWZ Contact: Mr. Persons, mpersons@sd129.org |
| Global Minds | A. Cyrus / K. Orchard (Character House) |
A for-youth by-youth organization inspiring students to form social bonds, intercultural friendships, and consider global issues in order to combat the issues of cultural intolerance and discrimination Schoology Access Code: FN85M-P44K6 Contacts: Mrs. Cyrus, acyrus@sd129.org OR Mrs. Orchard, korchard@sd129.org |
| Gospel Choir | M. Collins (Out-of-District) / T. Walls (Ambition House) |
To foster the love of gospel music and prepare for performances Schoology Access Code: 6WW8-G9BV-Q63JR Contact: Mrs. Walls, twalls@sd129.org |
| Homework Club | K. Gilchrist / M. Rothery (Diversified) |
Need help on your homework? If so, drop in any time after school to get assistance. Schoology Access Code: 8HX7-89V3-M5H3X Contacts: Mrs. Gilchrist, kgilchrist@sd129.org OR Ms. Rothery, megan.rothery@sd129.org |
| Horror Club | J. Hacker (Science) |
For students that want to understand, explore, and create the art of horror. Schoology Access Code: 3DV3-6FRZ-KP27P Contact: Mr. Hacker, jesse.hacker@sd129.org |
| Intramurals | K. Bolling (Social Worker) / T. Gingerich (P.E.) |
Intramural games are scheduled to provide enjoyment. Participants need to be respectful during activity and treat all members in that way. Intramurals are an opportunity to develop a sense of community at West Aurora in a sport environment while embracing a healthy and active lifestyle. Schoology Access Code: 5PC2-7QJF-GMHRW Contacts: Ms. Bolling, kbolling@sd129.org OR Mr. Gingerich, tgingerich@sd129.org |
| Investment Club | C. Bourjaily / D. Hafer (CTE) |
To provide students their first experiences with the stock market, investments, financial responsibility, and to gain insight and experience into the world of finance. Students will learn about investing money, playing the stock market, and pursuing careers in finance by using stock simulators and competing in competitions with other high school students around the world. Schoology Access Code: 6X3H-FK6S-TQ3D8 Contacts: Mr. Bourjaily, chris.bourjaily@sd129.org OR Mr. Hafer, dhafer@sd129.org |
| Key Club | K. Caliendo (Diversified) |
A student-led organization whose goal is to encourage leadership through serving others Schoology Access Code: 57M54-2D6T2 Contact: Mrs. Caliendo, k.caliendo@sd129.org |
| Mental Health Awareness Club | M. Aponte (World Languages) / N. Hayes (STAR) |
To promote an understanding and acceptance of mental health issues Schoology Access Code: RFVC-7XH3-K8TR9 Contacts: Ms. Aponte, melissa.aponte@sd129.org OR Ms. Hayes, nhayes@sd129.org |
| Muses | J. Pauley (English) |
To produce a literary magazine which includes poetry, stories and more Schoology Access Code: DF7H4-WR789 Contact: Ms. Pauley, jpauley@sd129.org |
|
National Art Honor Society* |
J. Goeringer (Fine Arts) |
To honor and promote scholarship, leadership, character and service through the arts Contact: Mrs. Goeringer, jgoeringer@sd129.org |
| National Honor Society* | K. Szwajkowski (English) |
To honor and promote scholarship, leadership, character and service Contact: Mrs. Szwajkowski, kszwajkowski@sd129.org |
| Operation Snowball | S. Cozzens / B. Bieneman / S. Musial / A. Chin / J. Rempala (Math) |
To empower students to use their knowledge, motivation and passion as a driving force to create a positive impact at our school and in the community through prevention education, community advocacy, and leadership development Schoology Access Code: QSCM-4F3K-4S29V Contact: Mrs. Cozzens, scozzens@sd129.org; Ms. Bieneman, b.bieneman@sd129.org; Mrs. Musial, stefanie.musial@sd129.org; Ms. Chin, alyssa.chin@sd129.org; OR Ms. Rempala, jrempala@sd129.org |
| PAWS | J. Black / J. Larson (Diversified) |
To promote awareness of animal welfare efforts and help homeless pets Schoology Access Code: M3X2H-XD42X Contacts: Ms. Black, jblack@sd129.org OR Mrs. Larson, julielarson@sd129.org |
| Photography Club | C. Hazelton (Fine Arts) |
To develop creativity through photography Schoology Access Code: 7H2X-ZDPD-KS6ZF Contact: Ms. Hazelton, caitlin.hazelton@sd129.org |
| Pride Club | K. Phillips (CTE) |
To promote a safe and welcoming school environment for all students Schoology Access Code: MMPBR-P3T9S Contact: Ms. Phillips, kphillips@sd129.org |
| Puzzle Cube Club | Q. Huynh (English) |
an opportunity to learn how to solve puzzle cubes (i.e. Rubik's) and share a passion for fun, thought-provoking puzzles Schoology Access Code: 2QJ4-C446-V85CG Contact: Mrs. Huynh, QHuynh@sd129.org |
| SAVE Promise Club | C. Camerano (Honor House) |
Students Against Violence Everywhere A place for young people across the country to show their leadership, creativity & passion for protecting their friends, school & communities from violence BEFORE it happens Schoology Access Code: PB3W-2CW9-CHW76 Contact: Mr. Camerano, christopher.camerano@sd129.org |
| Saving Our World (SOW) | T. Gallagher (Math) |
Saving Our World: Sowing the seeds of Environmental Awareness in every student at WAHS! To educate students on global climate and environmental, and finding solutions that individuals/small groups of people can apply to their lives Schoology Access Code: PCRW-J4BB-X2MWT Contact: Mr. Gallagher, tgallagher@sd129.org |
| Scientific Research Club | S. Scott (Science) |
A club for students who have an interest in conducting scientific research projects; students will have the opportunity to present research projects at local and international science fairs. Schoology Access Code: TBA Contact: Mrs. Scott, sscott@sd129.org |
| Spanish Club | A. Scharm (World Languages) |
To learn about Hispanic cultures and the Spanish language, while providing social activities and community service Schoology Access Code: C498-C93X-D9Q65 Contact: Mr. Scharm, ascharm@sd129.org |
| Spanish Honor Society* | C. Aguilar (World Languages) |
To promote scholarship and to recognize high honor achievement in the Spanish language Contact: Mrs. Aguilar, caguilar@sd129.org |
| Stage Crew | T. Osibodu (Auditorium) |
To learn and provide all lighting, sound, scenery & special effects for West High events Schoology Access Code: KF4KX-7XPW5 Contact: Mr. O., tobi.osibodu@sd129.org |
| Student Activities Advisory Council (SAAC) | E. Kegarise (Student Activities) |
The goal of the SAAC is to bring ideas from a student’s lens and use these ideas to implement strategies to connect students to West High. If interested in joining, please email Mrs. Kegarise at the link below. Contact: Mrs. Kegarise, ekegarise@sd129.org |
| Student Ambassadors* | E. Kegarise (Student Activities) |
To provide a venue for service to the school, district and community. Must Apply - Applications are posted in the spring. Contact: Mrs. Kegarise, ekegarise@sd129.org |
| Student Council | C. Fischer (Diversified) |
An organization devoted to student voice and involvement at West High Schoology Access Code: 7ZZT-W9RS-3BG2T Contact: Ms. Fischer, cfischer@sd129.org |
| Student Equity Advisory Council (SEAC) | V. McCall (Administration Office) |
The SEAC was established in an effort to ensure student voices are heard, and to make sure our school is a place where students have equitable opportunities. If interested in joining, please email Dr. McCall at the link below. Contact: Dr. McCall, valerie.mccall@sd129.org |
| Weisner Welding/Machining Club | M. Williams (CTE) |
To develop and master welding and machining techniques Schoology Access Code: ZQMG-CHKT-H5KGC Contact: Mr. Williams, mark.williams@sd129.org |
| West Buddies | C. Davidson / E. Hernandez (Diversified) |
To provide opportunities for building relationships between all students Schoology Access Code: T5CDV-NW6VF Contacts: Mrs. Davidson, cdavidson@sd129.org OR Mrs. Hernandez, ellenhernandez@sd129.org |
| World Relief Homework Club | C. Gomez (World Languages) |
To provide extra assistance and guidance for students who are new to the United States Contact: Ms. Gomez, cegomez@sd129.org |
|
Yearbook Club |
C. Hazelton (Fine Arts) |
To learn publication techniques and publish the annual yearbook Schoology Access Code: N8DP8-MQGPN Contacts: Ms. Hazelton, caitlin.hazelton@sd129.org |
Student Council Structure
Meetings are open to ALL West High students!
Student Council is an opportunity to support school spirit, support Blackhawk teams, develop and mobilize service endeavors, plan and organize activities and dances, and develop leadership skills.
Student Council Sponsors:
Ms. Fischer (Diversified) - cfischer@sd129.org
Mr. Eschman (Pride House) - peschman@sd129.org
Ms. Rodgers (Ambition House) - tricia.rodgers@sd129.org
Mrs. Wasulko (Library) - lwasulko@sd129.org
Mrs. Whiteaker (CTE) - jennifer.whiteaker@sd129.org
Sound & Spirit
Promote it / Hear it
- Student Section(Rowdies)
- Prize Patrol
- Pep Assemblies
- Spirit Weeks
- Sports Themes
Outreach
Praise it / Feel it
- Community Service Events
- Toiletry Drive
- Recycle Drive
- Food Drive
- Dance Marathon - #FTK
- FMSC & School Visits
Design
Present it / See it
- Posters and Flyers
- Announcements
- Decorating
(Hallway/Lockers) - Social Media
Activities
Plan it / Do it
- Homecoming
- Winter Dance
- Prom
- Special Events
- Tailgates
- Races
- Movie Night
- Car Show