Are you thinking about starting a club at your high school? You have just found your detailed guide for turning the idea into a meaningful and sustainable student organization. Starting a club is more than just gathering a few friends with similar interests; you will be able to create an experience that your school community can embrace long after you leave. It may seem overwhelming when you first start, but establishing a club can allow you to build something meaningful and impactful with proper planning. Below, you will find a thorough, step-by-step guide which includes practical pieces of advice along with insider's tips to help you through each step of the process, from gaining approval to involving others, creating systems and thinking about your legacy.
1.Discover Your Passion and Define Your Purpose
Before anything else, it's really important to figure out what interests you. Is there a hobby that you wish your school had more opportunities for? Or a cause? Or a topic? Think about what your school is missing, and how your club can fill that void. You might have an interest in environmental activism, learning to code, art, or debate. The clearer you are with your club's purpose, the more likely you will stay motivated and convey your ideas to others. Write out a mission statement that summarizes what you are hoping for your club and why it is important to you and your peers.
2. Make Sure Your Club Idea Is Unique
When you have an idea, check your school's list of established clubs. You don't want to create something that will duplicate what is already being done. If it is an existing club that is somewhat similar to your idea, consider what your idea brings that is different or how you could work together. This step is to also make sure that you are not duplicating clubs, as well as ensuring that you are bringing something new or different to the school community.
3. Find a Faculty Advisor or Sponsor
Most schools do require that a staff member - a teacher, counselor, coach, etc. - serve as your advisor. Find a staff member who supports your club or is interested in supporting your idea. A good advisor can support you in navigating school policies, offer guidance, and help you advocate for your club when appropriate. When you approach your advisor, communicate clearly what your club is about and what you hope to accomplish. Their support can make everything simpler and more fun!
4. Write a Club Constitution or Mission Statement
A club constitution is simply an outline for how your club will operate. It should include the name of your club, the mission, membership requirements (in order to join, how many members there will be, etc), officer positions, how often you're going to meet, and other policies or rules. The constitution allows everyone to see what the club will look like and accomplish. You may need to submit it when getting your club registered with the school too. If you have never created one before don't worry because most schools have one ready to use!
5. Register Your Club with the School
Each school has their own process for getting a new club approved. Generally, every school will require an application, constitution, and student signatures. You may also have to meet with administrators or student government. Be prepared to offer up district related benefits and ways your club connects all students. Approval may take several days to several weeks, so be patient and constant.
6. Recruit Members and Build Your Team
Now that you’re official, it’s time to let people know! Spread the word through flyers, school announcements, social media, and word of mouth. Don’t hesitate to talk to kids you don’t know all that well,having a variety of perspectives in the club only makes it stronger. At your first meeting, focus on welcoming everyone and providing an explanation of the purpose of the club. Encourage students to bring their ideas and get involved from that very first meeting!
7. Hold Your First Meeting
The culture of your club is established in the first meeting. In this first club meeting, you introduce yourself, give a brief overview of your vision, and outline what members can expect as we go forward. Some items you may want to address are activities, events, and leadership positions in the club. You should give thought to ice breakers or even team buildings activities to allow members to get to know one another. You may want to have this meeting serve as an election for officers (if your club is having them). Encourage everyone to contribute to the discussion, encourage inclusiveness, and allow time for questions and thoughts.
8. Plan Activities and Set Goals
Now that you have a team in place, now it's time to begin brainstorming the types of events and projects you’d like to do. Establish your short- and long-term goals- you may want to, eventually have a guest speaker, have a fundraiser, a competition, etc. Now, you can establish an action plan, with timelines and responsibilities, and ensure that everyone knows what they are doing ahead of time. Planning will help keep the club on track, but provide some focus and flow so that you can avoid the dreaded burnout or uncertainty at whichever stage of the club you are at.
9. Secure Resources and Support
Consider what your club might need to be successful: meeting space, supplies, funding or promotional materials. You may want to consider contacting your advisor and/or school administration or local businesses for support. Some clubs even apply for grants, while other clubs hold fund raisers to meet the costs of supplies or events. Don't be afraid to ask for help; usually people are willing to support a student initiative when they see your enthusiasm and organization.
10. Reflect, Adapt, and Plan for the Future
As your club matures and grows, you will want to think about what worked and what you might want to do differently.Keep a record of everything your club has accomplished, and the various and possible ways that you achieved that work. Those records will be an excellent starting point for new club leaders, who will be the next people establishing club work or initiatives in the coming years. Reinforce that they should think of it as a handbook or something intended to pass on their work to officers the subsequent year.
Starting a club in high school is a unique challenge, it takes creative thought, collective honesty and collaboration, and willingness to take a risk. Assuming you put into practice the above suggestions you have created a place for students to connect and grow, and build tools or skill that you will take with you during and long after your walk across the graduation stage.
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