Honors Societies and Clubs

Honors Societies and Clubs

Honors Societies and Clubs Information

Honor Societies and Clubs serve as integral components of student life at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School. These extra-curricular groups are intended to stimulate student interest and learning outside of the traditional academic environment. These clubs and honor societies tap into the expertise and unique skill set of teachers and students alike to supplement academic coursework with nuanced, interesting, and fun experiences.

Included in this pamphlet are the 2025-2026 Honor Society and Club offerings. Please read through the descriptions below. Applications for honor societies will be available for students in 10th grade and above at a later date. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one honor society and one club. Students may sign-up for additional honor societies and clubs if they choose.

Clubs will meet on the first Tuesday of each month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM, or at other times at the discretion of the club moderator.

Please direct all general questions to Mr. Dell and please direct all specific questions to the club moderator. Thank you and Go Canes!

Honor Societies

French Honor Society

Moderator(s)

Loubna Elmoutii

Honor Society Description

The French Honor Society is a club for sophomore through senior students at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School who have demonstrated excellence in 2 consecutive years of French classes. Members must exemplify the qualities of leadership, scholarship, citizenship and community service. Members are required to attend any and all chapter meetings. Meetings may consist of club business, cultural discussions, service projects, or tutoring of other students, etc.

Requirements for Admission

The following are the requirements for membership in French Honor Society:

  • Completion of at least two consecutive years of French classes
  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in all French classes
  • 2 service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher

International Thespian Society (ITS)

Moderator(s)

Bailee McQueen and Dawn David

Honor Society Description

A division of the Educational Theatre Association, International Thespian Society is an honor society for high school theater students. Troupes serve as a way to compete, learn leadership, and serve through performance art.

Requirements for Admission

Students must accrue ten (10) points (roughly 100 hours of work for productions), and be in good behavioral and academic standing with the school, for induction. Students must be in 10th grade or higher to be eligible for admission.

Mu Alpha Theta

Moderator(s)

Steve Ater and Lindsay Brown

Honor Society Description

Mu Alpha Theta, which partners with professional mathematics organizations, including the Mathematical Association of America, the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics, and the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges, is a non-secret organization whose purpose is the promotion of scholarship in, and enjoyment and understanding of, mathematics among high school and two-year college students.

Requirements for Admission

  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in Math
  • 1 Honors/AP/DE Math Class
  • 10th Grade or Higher

If you are inducted, you will be asked to fulfill the following membership requirements to stay
active and in good standing:

  • Attend quarterly Chapter Meetings
  • Maintain a 3.5 GPA
  • Tutor other math students at BMCHS a minimum of 2 hours a semester
  • Be enrolled in a math class all four years of high school

National Art Honor Society (NAHS)

Moderator(s)

Colleen Vinson

Honor Society Description

NAHS students spread awareness of visual arts and the joy it brings to others throughout the school and community through visual arts related service projects. Each student must earn 2 visual arts service hours each year to maintain membership.

Requirements for Admission

Students must apply for admission to NAHS. They should demonstrate leadership, good character, service, and an overall interest in visual arts. Students must have taken 2 visual arts courses during high school, or are currently enrolled in their second visual arts course when applying. Students must have at least a 3.5 Unweighted GPA in Visual Arts. Once inducted, members are required to participate in an annual service project. Students must be in 10th grade or higher to be eligible for admission.

National Beta Club

Moderator(s)

Jennifer Hoffman

Honor Society Description

The National Beta Club is the largest independent, non-profit, educational youth organization in the United States. Founded in 1934, its mission is to promote the ideals of academic achievement, character, leadership, and service among elementary and secondary school students. The club provides a platform for students to develop their leadership skills and engage in community service, helping to foster a sense of civic responsibility and personal growth.

Requirements for Admission

Students applying for membership must be in grades 10-12 and must have completed at least 25 hours of service. Students must also hold a minimum of 125 service hours as members.

National English Honor Society (NEHS)

Moderator(s)

Dawn David

Honor Society Description

Honor Society Description: The National English Honor Society (NEHS), founded and sponsored by Sigma Tau Delta, is the only international organization exclusively for secondary students and faculty who, in the field of English, merit special note for past and current accomplishments. Individual secondary schools are invited to petition for a local chapter, through which individuals may be inducted into Society membership. Immediate benefits of amiliation include academic recognition, scholarship and award eligibility, and opportunities for networking with others who share enthusiasm for, and accomplishment in, the language arts.

America’s first honor society was founded in 1776, but high school students didn’t have access to such organizations for another 150 years. Since then, high school honor societies have been developed in leadership, drama, journalism, French, Spanish, mathematics, the sciences, and in various other fields, but not in English. In 2005, National English Honor Society launched and has been growing steadily since, becoming one of the largest academic societies for secondary schools.

Sample activities of the honor society include “carding” and shelving the library books, dress down days for the Imagination Library, writing contests, and more.

Requirements for Admission

  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in English classes
  • 1 Honors/AP/DE English Class
  • 2 service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher

After induction, members of NEHS are required to participate in 2 hours of service. This includes tutoring in the Media Center by appointment with other students, and participating in a service project. Examples include fundraising for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Project, the Intellectual Freedom Challenge, Junior Summer Study, and career projects. Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.5 in all English classes.

National Honor Society (NHS)

Moderator(s)

Shawna Levondosky

Honor Society Description

The purpose of this organization shall be to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to promote leadership, and to develop character in the students of secondary schools.

Requirements for Admission

Membership in the Bishop McLaughlin chapter of NHS is an honor bestowed upon a student that satisfies the below listed requirements:

  • Outstanding scholarship, service, leadership, and character
  • Cumulative Weighted GPA of 3.75 or higher
  • A commitment to continue to demonstrate the core qualities of NHS
  • 5 NHS service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher

Quill and Scroll International Honor Society

Moderator(s)

Kendra Messana

Honor Society Description

Quill and Scroll International Honor Society is for those persons who have performed exceptional work in the field of Journalism or Mass Communications.

Requirements for Admission

Eligible persons must be a 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student. Anyone wishing to become a member of Quill and Scroll must have taken (or be currently enrolled in) Digital Arts Imaging or TV, Film, and Production, and must have attained a minimum Unweighted GPA of 3.5 in all Journalism and Media classes. Students must complete 2 hours of annual service while a member.

Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society

Moderator(s)

Mark Martin and Justin Fitzpatrick

Honor Society Description

The mission of Rho Kappa is to advocate and build capacity for high-quality social studies by providing leadership, services, and support to educators.

Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society is the only national organization for high school juniors and seniors that recognizes excellence in the field of Social Studies. Individuals will be inducted into Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society and become alumni members upon graduation.

Requirements for Admission

To be eligible for membership in Rho Kappa, students must meet the following requirements:

  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in Social Studies
  • 1 Honors/AP Social Studies Class
  • 2 service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher

Science National Honor Society

Moderator(s)

Catherine Daum

Honor Society Description

The Science National Honor Society (SNHS) encourages a sense of community, supports academic excellence, promotes service-based leadership, and awards recognition to students’ dedication and achievements in the field of science. This honor society will meet once per month and offer tutoring on either Tuesday or Thursday afterschool to any student who may request it. This tutoring will go toward service hours.

Requirements for Admission

To be eligible for membership in SNHS, students must meet the following requirements:

  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in Science
  • 1 Honors/AP Science Class
  • 2 service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher

Spanish National Honor Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica)

Moderator(s)

Rebecca Brodmerkel

Honor Society Description

The Spanish National Honor Society is a club for sophomore through senior students at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School who have demonstrated excellence in 2 consecutive years of Spanish classes. Members must exemplify the qualities of leadership, scholarship, citizenship and community service. Members are required to attend any and all chapter meetings. Meetings may consist of club business, cultural discussions, service projects, or tutoring of other students, etc.

Requirements for Admission

The following are the requirements for membership in SNHS:

  • Completion of at least two consecutive years of Spanish classes
  • 3.5 Unweighted GPA in all Spanish classes
  • 2 service hours while a member
  • 10th Grade or Higher
Clubs

African American Club

Moderator(s)

Marcus Crawford

Club Description

The mission of the African American Club for Black and other students to connect and celebrate Black history, culture, and achievements. The club hosts cultural events and activities to foster unity, awareness, and pride. This club aims to make a positive impact in both the school and local community. All students are welcome to join and participate!

Meeting Time

First Thursday of each month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Crawford’s classroom.

Maximum Students

15

Bishop Buddies and Special Olympics Florida Club

Moderator(s)

Jennifer Hoffman and Matthew Cox

Club Description

This club is a combination of our Bishop Buddies and Special Olympics Florida Clubs. The Bishop Buddies are responsible for planning, educating, leading, operating, and producing events and school-wide initiatives that foster an inclusive school community. We strive to make Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School a welcoming environment for students of diverse backgrounds, especially those with disabilities. Our Special Olympics Florida Club assists in supporting our Special Olympics Athletes, both in serving as volunteers during events, and also during practice sessions to prepare for the Area, Regional, and State Special Olympics Florida tournaments.

Both of these clubs are designed and combined to be a service-based learning experience that will provide many opportunities for volunteer experiences and service hours. These clubs offer an opportunity for students to help create a more positive learning environment for all Bishop students. We are looking for friendly, creative and helpful students with a passion for spreading kindness and compassion.

Requirements for Admission

The club’s desire is to improve the school community with greater inclusion of those from diverse backgrounds, especially those with disabilities. Members must have the ability and willingness to perform volunteer experiences. Students must always exhibit positive behavior in all school settings, with respect for others and their individual differences. Students should expect to put their talents to use in an effort to improve the lives of all students at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School.

Meeting Time

This club meets on Monday afternoons at 3:00 PM, 1-2 times per month, and possibly additional times near scheduled events.

Maximum Students

15

Brain Bowl

Moderator(s)

Dawn David

Club Description

Brain Bowl is a competition between local high school students based on the format of Jeopardy. Brain Bowl topics include some academics (Math, Science, Literature, History, Geography) and other day-to-day topics (Sports, Video Games, Movies, TV, Music, etc). Teams are made up of a variety of experts in single fields, or several. Matches run more like Trivia Night and less than Mathletes. Being great at school subjects is not needed, but also wouldn’t hurt. This club meets weekly to practice and prepare for competitions.

Requirements for Admission

All students must be approved by Mrs. David.

Meeting Time

Please listen to announcements regarding meeting times for Brain Bowl. There will be additional practices close to competition day.

Campus Ministry

Moderator(s)

Stephen Eschenfelder

Club Description

This club’s purpose is to assist in the spiritual growth of Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School and to create missionary disciples of the Gospel. Members must be willing to attend all meetings, do the work needed to get things done, help at Mass, assist with retreats, and go on trips such as March for Life. Practicing Catholic students will also participate at Mass as readers, servers, etc.

Meeting Time

Meeting times will vary. Please listen to school announcements for when Campus Ministry will meet as a group.

Chess Club

Moderator(s)

Richard Grebenc

Club Description

This is a chess club designed for both competitive and casual players. All levels (including beginners) are welcome. The club has hosted school tournaments in years past, known as the “Bishop Cup.” See Mr. Grebenc for more information!

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Grebenc’s classroom.

Children of God Club

Moderator(s)

Adriana Matallana

Club Description

The Children of God Club at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School offers students a unique opportunity to creatively engage with their faith while teaching younger audiences about Catholicism. In this club, students will produce engaging videos based on the Sunday readings of the Catholic Mass, using puppets to bring the stories to life. Members will use their voices to narrate and act out the readings.

These videos will be posted on the Children of God Catholic YouTube channel, reaching children far and wide with the teachings of the Catholic faith. Through this project, students will not only deepen their own understanding of the liturgy but also develop valuable skills in communication, creativity, and evangelization. Join us in spreading the joy of the Gospel to the next generation.

The club meets on the first Thursday of each month.

To see the YouTube Children of God channel visit This Link.

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of the month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Ms. Matallana’s classroom.

Common Good Club

Moderator(s)

Matt Robichaux

Club Description

The Common Good Club is a student-run club designed to promote the common good within Bishop and the local community through service and acts of kindness. During monthly meetings, members will discuss a specific topic and focus on opportunities to give back. Examples include initiatives to raise cancer awareness, support animal shelters, and protect the environment. All interested students are encouraged to join!

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Robichaux’s classroom.

Creative Writing Club

Moderator(s)

Andrew Shigo

Club Description

The Creative Writing Club is a club for creativity and inspired writing. Students will be given prompts to work on and share with one another, as well as time work on personal projects. There will be opportunities to peer review and feedback on personal pieces. All interested students are welcome!

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Shigo’s classroom.

Debate and Speech Club

Moderator(s)

Luke Lancaster and Kerry Dickenson

Club Description

The Debate and Speech Club offers students an opportunity to practice public speaking skills. Through debates about a variety of topics, students will practice their persuasive and communication skills. Any and all students are welcome to join!

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Lancaster’s classroom.

Empowering Voices

Moderator(s)

Kendra Messana

Club Description

Empowering voices aims to promote diversity, create awareness, and foster unity among the Bishop student body by highlighting a variety of voices present at the school. Through public speaking practice, cultural events, and creative projects, members of Empowering Voices aim to make a positive impact in the school community. All students are welcome to join and participate!

Meeting Time

Second Wednesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Ms. Messana’s classroom.

Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)

Moderator(s)

Marcus Crawford

Club Description

The Athletes in Christ Club is a supportive community within our school dedicated to student athletes who are passionate about integrating their faith with their athletic pursuits. Meeting once a month, this club provides a unique space for students to come together for a time of devotion and discussion centered around faith and sports. Each gathering features a devotional that inspires and challenges members to reflect on how their Christian values can influence and enhance their athletic experiences.

In addition to spiritual growth, the club fosters meaningful conversations about balancing faith with the demands of competitive sports, dealing with the pressures of performance, and supporting one another through both victories and setbacks. Whether you are a seasoned athlete or just starting out, the Christian Athletes Club welcomes anyone interested in exploring how their beliefs intersect with their athletic journey.

Join us to connect with fellow athletes, grow in your faith, and gain encouragement and wisdom to excel both on and off the field.

Requirements for Admission

Students must be an active member of an athletic team at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School.

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Crawford’s classroom.

Gardening Club

Moderator(s)

Matthew Flaherty and Charlie Reese

Club Description

Gardening Club brings together students who are passionate about growing and caring for plants. Members will learn and share gardening skills, from starting seeds to harvesting. The club will also take part in service projects, helping to beautify our campus and support the surrounding community.

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Flaherty’s room.

HOSA - Future Health Professionals (Health Occupations Students of America)

Moderator(s)

Christopher Diggs

Club Description

HOSA is an organization dedicated to preparing and empowering the next generation of healthcare leaders. HOSA is a global student-led organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of Health and Human Services and several federal and state agencies. HOSA’s mission is to empower future health professionals to become leaders in the global health community, through education, collaboration, and experience. HOSA is a student organization that offers opportunities for all students who plan to pursue a healthcare career.

Students with leadership ability and social maturity, who can handle the spirit of competitiveness, will be more community-oriented and will seek involvement and participation in citizenship activities because of their involvement in HOSA. HOSA extends the scope of Health Science Education into the community. HOSA activities provide health science students with visibility and develop a positive relationship with health care providers and the professional staff. When students participate in HOSA activities, there is an involvement and cooperation of sharing responsibilities and a commitment of family, school, and community in current healthcare issues.

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM

House Council

Moderator(s)

Stephen Eschenfelder

Club Description

House Council members are students in grades 9-12 who serve as representatives of their respective House (Augustine, Bakhita, Day, Ignatius). During House Council meeting, representative discuss upcoming events, student life matters, school policy proposals, pillar day activities, and other important House-related items. House Council members serve as leaders within the school community and assist House Captains. Students should see Mr. Eschenfelder with more details about how to apply for House Council.

Meeting Time

House meetings times will vary. Please listen to school announcements for House-specific meetings.

Indoor Futsal Soccer Club

Moderator(s)

Richard Bryan

Club Description

Futsal originated in Brazil and was designed to improve your technical skills in soccer by using a smaller than regulated sized ball to help build technical skills. It’s small sided, fast-paced, and fun.

Meeting Time

First Wednesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in the gym.

Model United Nations (Model UN)

Moderator(s)

Richard Sutak

Club Description

Model United Nations (Model UN or MUN) is an educational simulation where students roleplay as diplomats representing different countries to discuss and solve global issues, fostering skills in diplomacy, public speaking, research, negotiation, and problem-solving. Participants engage in a five-stage process involving research, debate, negotiation, resolution writing, and voting to develop solutions to real-world problems.

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Sutak’s classroom.

NAMI On Campus (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

Moderator(s)

Shawna Levondosky

Club Description

NAMI On Campus is a student-led club that promotes mental health awareness and education. This club creates safe spaces for dialogue, peer-led activities, and crucial resource-sharing.

Key priorities:
  1. Cultivate a supportive environment for student mental health
  2. Disseminate information on school and community resources
  3. Promote early recognition of mental health signs
  4. Encourage seeking help for mental health challenges
  5. Drive conversation to eliminate mental health stigma

Meeting Time

First Tuesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Ms. Levondosky’s classroom.

OLAS (Organization of Latin American Students)

Moderator(s)

José Sotomayor

Club Description

The purpose of OLAS is to build community and educate the general student population regarding different Latin American countries and cultures. The club aims to give a voice to students and showcase the diversity of the Bishop McLaughlin student body. The group will have monthly meetings and complete one service project that benefits the school community. All students are welcome to join and participate!

Meeting Time

First Thursday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in Mr. Sotomayor’s room.

Pickleball Club

Moderator(s)

Mario Monteleone

Club Description

Pickleball club invites players of all levels to join! Meeting will include both casual and competitive play. Meetings will take place in the gym where the club will set up nets and equipment. Please see Mr. M with any questions!

Meeting Time

Second Wednesday of every month from 3:00 – 3:30 PM in the gym

Road Cycling Club

Moderator(s)

Charlie Reese

Club Description

Hit the open road with Bishop McLaughlin’s Road Cycling Club! Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a complete beginner, our club is the perfect place to build your skills, get fit, and explore the scenic trails of our community. We’re a supportive, welcoming group that focuses on safety, teamwork, and, most importantly, having fun on two wheels. This club will focus on group riding on several trails in our area, like the Suncoast Trail or the Withlacoochee State Trail. Our rides will typically be less than 2 hours and cover up to 20 miles, making them perfect for all fitness levels. Cycling is an excellent low-impact aerobic activity and is just plain fun! Join us for biweekly group rides, learn essential bike maintenance, and prepare for local cycling events. It’s more than just a sport; it’s a chance to challenge yourself, make new friends, and experience the thrill of the ride. All experience levels are welcome!

Meeting Time

These will vary depending upon the club’s availability. Please see Mr. Reese for more information.

Student Ambassadors

Moderator(s)

Veronica Perez

Club Description

Student Ambassadors serve as representatives of the school to new and prospective students. They are models of the core values of Bishop and excel inside and outside the classroom. They act with integrity and showcase what it means to be a Bishop student.

Student Ambassadors assist the Enrollment/Marketing Department at BMCHS with school events, partner school visits, and open houses.

Requirements for Admission

Students must complete the Student Ambassador Application for admission. Students must maintain a 3.0 grade point average, have no behavioral issues, and follow the Student and Family Handbook. Candidates will be selected on a case-by-case basis. Meeting times will vary depending on event needs. Please be attentive to communication form Ms. Perez for when BMCHS Student Ambassadors are needed.

Meeting Time

These will vary depending upon the department of Enrollment’s needs. Please listen to school announcements for meetings and service opportunities.

Technical Theatre Crew

Moderator(s)

Dawn David

Club Description

This club meets after school in order to build sets, paint, and prepare various components of productions (costumes, sound, light, etc.)

Requirements for Admission

All students must be approved by Mrs. David.

Meeting Time

These will vary depending upon the needs of the Performing Arts Department and show schedules. Please listen to school announcements regarding meeting times.