Honors Societies and Clubs

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!

Honor Societies

International Thespian Society (ITS)

Moderator(s)

Bailee McQueen and Koleen Hawkins

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 in grades 9–12.

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)

Steve Ater and Caroline Yaeger

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

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)

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. There is a $5 annual membership fee to the National Art Education Association.

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)

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. Students must also hold a minimum of 125 service hours as members.

National English Honor Society (NEHS)

Moderator(s)

Dawn David

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)

Eden Jensen

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
  • 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)

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, 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)

Eden Jensen

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)

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. 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

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)

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:

  • 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)

Josh Gallop and Francisco Narvaez

Honor Society Description

The Theology Honor Society is an honor society reserved for sophomore, junior, and senior students. This club seeks to promote the study and application of theology. Members are required to attend all society meetings and dedicate at least two (2) service hours to the after-school tutoring for theology classes.

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
Clubs

Arab Culture Club

Moderator(s)

Loubna Elmoutii

Club Description

In this club, students will explore Arab culture, which emphasizes:

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

25

Basketball Club

Moderator(s)

Matthew Robichaux

Club Description

The club is meant to help students improve their skills and knowledge of the game of basketball. The club is ONLY meant for students who wish to be a competitive basketball player and/or move on to the next level when they graduate from BMCHS. Students will spend time watching film, analyzing their game, and making a plan to improve their individual skills and conditioning.

Bible Study Club

Moderator(s)

Kristina Iltcheva

Club Description

In Bible study club we will be exploring topics in the Old and New Testaments. We will use Lectio Divina as a way to dive deeper into the meaning of the passages we read. Our main focus is to learn more about how God reveals Himself to us through Scripture. We will meet each week on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Clean Eats Club

Moderator(s)

William Martin

Club Description

The purpose of Clean Eats Club is to allow students who are interested in nutrition to explore healthy snack and meal options, as well as meal prep and recipe ideas to incorporate into their diets.

Requirements for Admission

Students must have an interest in Nutrition!

Maximum Students

25

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.

Golf Club

Moderator(s)

Mario Monteleone

Club Description

This club is designed to teach new players about the game of golf as well as improve the skills of experienced players. Topics we will discuss and learn about include: golf etiquette, how to keep track of score, the rules of golf, golf course management, and much more. Activities will include learning how to swing a golf club, learning how to putt, playing putting games, watching PGA tour golf tournaments, and possibly volunteering at a golf tournament.

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

20

Hockey Club

Moderator(s)

Steve Yarnall

Club Description

The purpose of the Hockey Club will be to allow students who are interested in hockey the opportunity to play with other hockey enthusiasts after school in fun organized games.

Requirements for Admission

Students must have a passion for hockey, sportsmanship, getting exercise and having fun.

Maximum Students

20

Holy Family Club

Moderator(s)

Kristina Iltcheva

Club Description

In the Holy Family Club we will be doing the 33 Days to Morning Glory, which is a consecration to our Lady. We will also be doing the Consecration to St. Joseph as well as the 33 Days of Merciful Love. We will study the lives of Mary and Joseph, the parents of Jesus, in order to attempt to imitate them as we grow in holiness. We will meet once a week, on Mondays after school.

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.

LifeSmarts

Moderator(s)

Catherine Palmer

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

20

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

Prayer Warriors Club

Moderator(s)

Kristina Iltcheva and Francisco Narvaez

Club Description

This club will meet on Tuesday mornings at 7:45 AM for prayer in the chapel, and on Fridays from 3:00-3:30 PM for adoration. Members will explore different forms of prayer, along with offering prayers for the school community and other intentions. More information is available by talking to either Ms. K or Mr. Narvaez.

Slackline Club

Moderator(s)

Matthew Flaherty

Club Description

The slackline club is a club where you can learn how to slackline, practice your skills, come to hang out with friends and spend time outside! No experience is needed.

STREAM Club

Moderator(s)

Jeff Bertone

Club Description

This club is dedicated to exploring the fields of STREAM (Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) through projects, research, and interests.

Requirements for Admission

Students must have taken or be taking a PLTW (Project Lead the Way) course.

Student Ambassadors

Moderator(s)

William Potosky

Club Description

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

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)

Eden Jensen

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)

Dawn David and Koleen Hawkins

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 Ms. Hawkins or Mrs. David.

Worship Band

Moderator(s)

Kendra Messana and Bailee McQueen

Club Description

The worship band is a musical ensemble consisting of students in 9th – 12th grade. Vocalists and instrumentalists are welcome! We perform at every all-school Mass. Our rehearsals are Mondays and Thursdays from 2:50 PM – 3:30 PM.

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!