Honors Societies and Clubs
Honors Societies and Clubs Information
Honor Societies and Clubs serve as key 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 learning experiences.
Included in this pamphlet are the honor society and club offerings for the 2024-2025 academic school year. Please read through the descriptions below. Applications for honor societies will be available at a later date. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in at least one honor society and one club. Students may also sign-up for additional honor societies and clubs if they choose.
Please direct all questions to Mr. Dell. Thank you and Go Canes!
Table of Contents
Honor Societies
Clubs
International Thespian Society (ITS)
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
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.
Mu Alpha Theta
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
To be eligible for membership you must:
- Be enrolled in your third year of High School Mathematics – Algebra II and higher
- Minimum of 3.5 out of 4.0 GPA in all math classes.
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 3.0 GPA
- Tutor other math students at BMCHS a minimum of 3 hours a semester
Be enrolled in a math class all four years of high school
National Art Honor Society (NAHS)
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
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 GPA in visual arts.
National Beta Club
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
Students applying for membership must be in grades 10-12. Students must also hold a minimum of 125 service hours as members.
National English Honor Society (NEHS)
Moderator(s)
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 affiliation 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
The requirements for admission into NEHS include tutoring in the Media Center at least once a month, by appointment with other students, and participating in fundraising for Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library Project. Other options include scholarships, 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)
Honor Society Description
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
- GPA of 3.7 or higher
- A commitment to continue to demonstrate these qualities
Active members shall become alumni members at graduation.
Quill and Scroll International Honor Society
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
Eligible persons must be a 10th, 11th, or 12th grade student, and must have at least a 3.0 unweighted GPA. 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 GPA of 3.5 in all Journalism and Media classes.
Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
The mission of the National Council for Social Studies 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:
- Have been in attendance at the school for at least one semester
- Have completed two or more core social studies courses and be prepared to complete at least three courses
- Have an overall cumulative GPA of 3.00 or the numerical equivalent
- Have participated in activities that demonstrate civic engagement in their school or community
- Provide a letter of recommendation
- Maintain an 80% overall GPA or better
- Have a minimum 3.5 GPA in their social studies classes
- Complete 20 hours of community service each year of membership
Science National Honor Society
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
Students must have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.0, and science grades must be a 3.5 out of a 4.0 scale overall.
Spanish National Honor Society (Sociedad Honoraria Hispánica)
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
The following are the requirements for membership in SNHS:
- Must be a sophomore, junior or senior at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School
- Must have completed at least two consecutive years of Spanish classes
- Must have and maintain a cumulative unweighted overall GPA of 3.2
- Must have and maintain a cumulative unweighted Spanish GPA of 3.5
- Must remain current with Community Service Hours as required by their school
Theology Honor Society
Moderator(s)
Honor Society Description
Requirements for Admission
The following are the requirements for membership in the Theology Honor Society:
- Must be a sophomore, junior or senior at Bishop McLaughlin Catholic High School
- Must have completed at least one full-year Theology class
- Must have and maintain a cumulative unweighted overall GPA of 3.0
- Must have and maintain a cumulative unweighted Theology GPA of 3.5
- Must be in good standing academically and behaviorally with the school
Arab Culture Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
- Personal integrity, dignity, and strong family bonds, with family loyalty often prioritized over personal needs
- Arab social interactions, focusing on the importance of politeness, respect for elders, authority figures, and guests
- Cultural practices, including traditional clothing styles and foods such as tagine, shawarma
- Arab-American dramas and celebrities
Maximum Students
Basketball Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Bible Study Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Bishop Buddies and Special Olympics Florida Club
Moderator(s)
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.
This club meets on Monday afternoons at 3:00 PM, 1-2 times per month, and possibly additional times near scheduled events.
Maximum Students
Brain Bowl
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
All students must be approved by Mrs. David.
Campus Ministry
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Children of God Club
Moderator(s)
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.
Clean Eats Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
Students must have an interest in Nutrition!
Maximum Students
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA)
Moderator(s)
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.
Golf Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
Anyone who is interested in learning about the game of golf or improving their golf skills. Students must always exhibit respectful behavior for others.
Maximum Students
Hockey Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
Students must have a passion for hockey, sportsmanship, getting exercise and having fun.
Maximum Students
Holy Family Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
HOSA - Future Health Professionals (Health Occupations Students of America)
Moderator(s)
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.
LifeSmarts
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Life Smarts is a Competition Program focused on Consumer topics and critical thinking skills. Participants focus on 5 Key areas: Consumer rights and responsibilities, the environment, health and safety, personal finance and technology. The goal of LifeSmarts is to create consumer savvy young people who will be well equipped for adult life in today’s complex, global marketplace.
We will participate in both online and live competitions (as we progress as the highest scoring teams). We can move on to state and even national competitions (This year the National Competition will be in Chicago!)
There are opportunities for scholarships and other prizes as well. Hope to see you on the 2nd and 4th Thursday in Room 616!
Maximum Students
NAMI On Campus (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Moderator(s)
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:- Cultivate a supportive environment for student mental health
- Disseminate information on school and community resources
- Promote early recognition of mental health signs
- Encourage seeking help for mental health challenges
- Drive conversation to eliminate mental health stigma
Prayer Warriors Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Slackline Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
STREAM Club
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
Students must have taken or be taking a PLTW (Project Lead the Way) course.
Student Ambassadors
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
Students must maintain a 3.5 grade point average, have no behavioral issues, and follow the Student and Family Handbook. Candidates will be selected on a case-by-case basis.
Student Government Association (SGA)
Moderator(s)
Club Description
The Student Government Association (SGA) aims to provide students with opportunities to represent their classmates in official school functions. This includes planning school dances, voting on school policy, voicing ideas for change in the school, organizing charitable drives, carrying out fundraising events, and serving as a student representative of the school. There are separate class representatives for each grade level, and an elected Executive Board (seniors) composed of a Treasurer, Catholic Coordinator, Secretary, Vice President, and President.
Class representatives meet once a month with additional meetings as necessary. Meetings typically take place on Wednesday from 2:00-2:30 PM in the SGA room.
Requirements for Admission
Students must submit the SGA application to Mrs. Jensen. As representatives of the school, SGA members are expected to demonstrate academic and behavioral excellence with a minimum of 3.0 GPA and minimal disciplinary events. Candidates will be selected on a case-by-case basis, and may be removed from the club at the moderator’s discretion.
Technical Theatre Crew
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
All students must be approved by Ms. Hawkins or Mrs. David.
Worship Band
Moderator(s)
Club Description
Requirements for Admission
The only prerequisite is a desire to participate in the Mass. You don’t have to know how to read music prior to joining the Worship Band!