South Dade High Clubs offer leadership and service opportunities

South Dade Senior High School students have a wide range of interesting clubs and activities to participate in.

The school recently held a Club Rush Day where students, many who are new to the school, could visit with club members and decide if the organization could be for them.

The Black Student Union is the newest club at South Dade. It has enthusiastic members and some big goals. The Union is encouraging all students to participate. “We want to bring everyone together and encourage students to gain more knowledge about Black culture and values. We will have regular meetings and social events,” said Lenya Johnson, president of the Union.

The Key Club, a well-known national high school student service organization is offering students a chance to work on service projects, was seeking members. Key Club members visit children who are facing cancer and drop off food to people in need. They help individuals struggling with disabilities. “Students can earn community service hours. We are going to be holding a dog adoption event,” said Rihana Abdi-Hinkson, Club president.

Edith Hernandez, president of Future Educators of America has a passion for working with children and is considering a career in education or law. “We have an active organization, and we have a toy drive for younger children. We are working with young children and ESOL students,” she said.

South Dade students who want to pursue careers in law enforcement might consider the Police Explorers. This organization provides opportunities for young people to learn about the work that people in law enforcement do. “We do fitness activities, have team building exercises and spend time with law enforcement,” said Kalani Green, chief of the Explorers.

Students in the Health Information Project work on improving mental health among students. “We are working to educate ninth graders about the importance of health and especially mental health,” said Abdi-Hinkson, a leader in the program.

HOSA students were also sharing information about their club. HOSA encourages young people studying the health professions to become leaders in the health community through education and experience.

The Buccaneer Robotics team is offering new students the opportunity to learn about the growing field of robotics. Jorge Perez, the president of the club said, “We have a VEX robotics program for younger students to learn the basics of robotics.” As the students gain more experience, they can build and program a larger robot to participate in First Robotics competitions. South Dade will host a large robotics competition in October.

South Dade Army JROTC program offers a challenging program that includes mental and physical challenges. The members participated in competitions that include a 5K run, rope bridge obstacle course and other challenges. “We have a physical program that many students enjoy,” said Henry Diaz, battalion commander.

The Buc Ambassadors were available to provide help. They give tours to up and coming middle school students and new students. They share the various opportunities the school has to offer.