WVMS clubs and activities offer something for every student

According to the US Census Bureau, children and adolescents are engaging in more extracurricular activities today than they have in past decades, and that engagement is associated with a range of positive outcomes, including higher academic performance, more positive academic perspectives, and higher academic aspirations!

WVMS students at the annual district-wide STEAM Fair & Art Show.

Here in Warwick Valley, our Portrait of a Graduate represents our district’s own aspirational teaching and learning goals, which are aimed at graduating students who are ready to be collaborators, communicators, creators and innovators, ethical and global citizens, resilient individuals, problem-solvers and life-long learners. It is a framework we employ across all grades and programs, and it certainly applies to the many clubs and extracurricular activities we offer at every school.  

Today, we’re looking a this year’s offerings at Warwick Valley Middle School, where a revamped set of opportunities includes everything from intramurals to the performing arts. Interested in cooking and sewing? There’s a club for that. Do you enjoy a good ghost story? Yes, there’s a club for that. Communicators, creators, innovators… there’s something for everyone.

WVMS Principal Jared Yapkowitz & Associate Principal Christopher Radon at this year’s homecoming parade.

“At the middle school, we are committed to fostering a vibrant and engaging school community, which is why we offer a rotating assortment of clubs and intramural activities throughout the year,” said WVMS Principal Jared Yapkowitz, suggesting students and parent check out the middle school’s Clubs & Activities page, which is updated for the 2024-25 school year. “These opportunities not only allow students to explore their interests and develop new skills, but we see so many of them forge lasting friendships and make meaningful connections with the teachers who serve as club advisors.”

Research has shown that participating in clubs and extracurricular activities “can help develop social skills, boost self-esteem and resiliency and lower levels of risky behaviors. Additionally, researchers found that more involvement in those activities give youth a chance to develop social skills and discover their own interests.” (Taylor & Francis Online: Peer Reviewed Journals) 

Indeed, many studies have indicated that being part of a school club or taking part in an activity outside the classroom can foster social connections and help students feel a sense of belonging and safety at school. Creating, playing, and learning alongside peers with common interests, they learn the value of teamwork and being a responsible, contributing member of a group.   

WVMS music teacher Shane Peters and the Ukulele Club during their annual benefit concert.

“Our extracurricular offerings are a great way for students to pursue the things they know they love, but it also gives them a chance to explore something totally new, and we love encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones and try something new,” said Principal Yapkowitz. “We have a great group of teacher advisors who lead an incredibly diverse group of clubs and activities, which means every Warwick Valley Middle School student can find an activity that resonates with them, from academics to the arts to sports to community service.”

Principal Yapkowitz added that the popularity of the middle school’s clubs and activities has done a lot to build a strong sense of community not just among students, but throughout all levels of the school. He also said that by rotating the schedule of clubs and activities year to year, they keep the experience fresh and exciting for students. 

A few of the middle school’s clubs include:

The WVMS Literary Club publishes two zines every year, with students as contributors, editorial board and production staff!

Student Senate, which empowers students to lead and serve their community and teaches the importance of student-governance, and the National Junior Honor Society, which recognizes outstanding students in 7th and 8th grade who demonstrate excellence in scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship. Basketball Intramurals and Flag Frenzy are early morning options for students looking to get up, get moving and learn sportsmanship and teamwork. Clubs like the Cooking & Sewing Club and the Stocks Club help students develop practical, real-world knowledge and skills that will serve them well in all stages of life. The middle school is also home to a very active chapter of the national organization SADD (Students Against Destructive Decisions), which promotes healthy lifestyles and positive decision making, working closely with the Warwick Valley Prevention Coalition to foster a healthier, more informed community. 

Middle school creators and communicators flock to clubs such as the Scary Stories Club and the Literary Magazine, as well as the inclusive American Sign Language Club. Of course, there is the ever-popular WVMS Drama Club,  where students can “step into the spotlight and explore the magical world of theater, doing everything from acting and directing, to stage design and behind-the-scenes work.” And musicians take note, the Wire Choir and the Ukulele Club both provide a creative outlet with plenty of chances to entertain the community! 

“And beyond those clubs and activities, there are all kinds of other annual events for our students to get involved with,” said Principal Yapkowitz. “I’m talking about academic events like our annual STEAM Fair, when we invite the community to come check out some of our students’ great work, or Foreign Language Week; even taking part in our PBIS Character Education lessons, team events, and quarterly celebrations.”

WVMS students serve veterans at their annual spring breakfast.

Principal Yapkowitz also shared that one of the middle school’s most anticipated and appreciated events of the year is its annual May We Honor You Veterans Breakfast, when local veterans are invited to attend a breakfast prepared by the students and faculty of the Home & Careers department, and served by middle school student ambassadors. Entertainment is provided by the middle school band, orchestra, and Guitar Club.

“Students love the array of clubs and activities we offer here at the middle school, and this is always such an exciting time of year, as we see them dive right in with so much enthusiasm and curiosity,” Principal Yapkowitz said. “Each of our clubs is designed to promote teamwork, leadership, and personal growth, and always in a fun and supportive environment.”