One of the most valued parts of the school experience in District 200 is the vast amount of clubs, activities and sports students can participate in during their time in our schools. When students get involved at school and connect with their peers and teachers, there is a greater chance of improving learning outcomes and decreasing risk factors for emotional stress.
For this reason, during the 2021-22 school year the Board of Education made a commitment to enhance and increase the number of clubs and activities available to students at all levels in District 200. In just a few years we have already seen the positive impacts this commitment has had on students.
Providing students with opportunities to get involved in extracurricular activities has started as early as the elementary level where clubs have been greatly expanded. We have seen an increase in elementary students who are choosing to participate in activities and take on leadership roles.
We have also seen tremendous growth in extracurricular activities at the high school level since the 2021-22 school year. Currently, both high schools offer a combined 185 clubs, activities or sports for students to get involved in. Additionally, we monitor the growth of student participation in these areas at the high school level on the District website. From the 2018-19 school year to the 2022-23 school year, we saw an eight percent increase in the amount students engaged in a club, activity or sport at the high school level.
While there are many opportunities at all levels, Esports (competitive gaming) was added at both high schools last year. Esports has gained popularity among high school students across the nation, and District 200 students have placed in the top ranks at a number of state competitions.
Wheaton Warrenville South High School Fortnite State Champion Nathan Pilgrim shares his experience of being part of the Esports Team. “Being fortunate to be a two-time State Champion has given me a new perspective and appreciation for all the hard work students have put into clubs and activities throughout our school’s history,” he said. “I hope that our Esport team’s major accomplishments in its first couple of years can inspire future students to pursue their dreams and be successful in their own unique passions."
Nathan’s teammate Luke Giordano, who is also a two-time Fortnight State Champion enjoys being part of the team because of the friendships he has made. "I was thankful to participate in Tiger Esports because it was a new opportunity for me to compete in something that I have passion for,” he said. “In addition, Tiger Esports also helped bring people together who have similar interests and work together to compete as a team."
We are proud of the work we have done to increase extracurricular offerings for students at all levels. In an effort to help students learn about what extracurricular opportunities are available to them, many schools host an activity/sports fair at the beginning of the year.
The success of these programs would not be possible without District 200 staff who dedicate their time and effort to supporting the clubs, activities and sports by serving as sponsors or coaches. Our staff understand the important role extracurricular activities have in connecting students with others and allowing them to explore their interests.