Clubs and Organizations

DECA

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

With over a 60 year history, DECA has touched the lives of more than ten million students, educators, school administrators and business professionals since it was founded in 1946. Their strong connection with our organization has resonated into a brand that people identify as a remarkable experience in the preparation of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs.

DECA's programs and activities have constantly evolved as we use the latest technology and apply cutting edge educational research. Our core focus has remained consistent and is captured in our mission.

Our Mission

DECA prepares emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for careers in marketing, finance, hospitality and management in high schools and colleges around the globe.

Guiding Principles

Our guiding principles explain how we fulfill our mission by addressing what we do and the outcomes we expect. DECA enhances the preparation for college and careers by providing co-curricular programs that integrate into classroom instruction, applying learning in the context of business, connecting to business and the community and promoting competition. Our student members leverage their DECA experience to become academically prepared, community oriented, professionally responsible, experienced leaders.

Attributes and Values

Our attributes and values describe DECA's priorities and standards. We value competence, innovation, integrity and teamwork.

DECA is organized into two unique student divisions each with programs designed to address the learning styles, interest and focus of its members. The High School Division includes 185,000 members in 5,000 schools. The Collegiate Division (formerly known as Delta Epsilon Chi) includes over 15,000 members in 200 colleges and universities.

DECA Inc. is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit student organization with members in all 50 United States, the District of Columbia, Canada, China, Germany, Guam, Hong Kong, Korea, Mexico and Puerto Rico. The United States Congress, the United States Department of Education and state and international departments of education authorize DECA's programs.

Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA)

Imagine building a portfolio of documented accomplishments as a complement to your academic experience. When applying for scholarships, you can demonstrate how you served in a leadership position, received awards, or participated in projects for the largest business based student organization in the world through the Business Achievement Awards (BAA), a self-directed results based business and leadership program designed to compliment academics while accelerating a student's leadership skills.

Attend a National Leadership Conference. Nothing can pump you up like walking into a room of 6,000 high school students cheering at the top of their lungs for their spirit for their state and FBLA! The energy you feel will inspire you!

At the same time, you can choose from over 50 competitive and skills events from the areas of technology, public speaking, business, finance, and management. You may finish as the very best in the nation, win recognition, and win cash from our sponsored events!

Meet student and business leaders from across the country - join FBLA today!

Class Officers

Knights of Valor

Light Club

Marching Band

Welcome to the Stamford High School Band! My name is Brendan Michalko.

For more than 80 years the Stamford High School Band has been an vibrant part of the school and community. This school year promises to continue that tradition and will be filled with great music, exciting travel opportunities and a very challenging performance schedule. There are three school concerts scheduled. Our award winning Marching Band will perform at five football games and present a half-time show in addition to marching in four local parades. Our competitive Winter Percussion Program will continue to impress. Students have been invited to perform in the Pit Orchestra for the drama production, "Almost Maine," and we will be attending Disney World in the Spring of 2017.

On this page, you will be able to find links to mp3's of the current music we are rehearsing for our shows and instructional videos about musical concepts, gather information about up and coming shows, and see pictures and videos of live SHS performances. Below, you will find an interactive calendar of practice/homework assignments, performances, and important dates.

Please visit the Parents Association link on the left where you can find information about our Band Parent Organization, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising efforts.

If you have any questions and need to contact me directly, please either call my office at (203) 977-4306, or email me . I look forward to speaking and making music with all of you.

I leave you with one of my favorite quotes.....

"Play the music, not the instrument." ~ Author Unknown

Standout Awards and Acknowledgements

Stamford High Black Knights Standout Awards and Acknowledgements

2000 - SHS Marching Band- National Citrus Bowl Champions in Orlando, Florida
2008 - SHS Marching Band- Musical Arts Conference Class III Champions
2008 - SHS Winter Percussion - Open Class Finalists - 7th place in International Competition - Dayton, Ohio
2010 - SHS Winter Percussion - Independent A Class Finalists - 10th place in International Competition- Dayton, Ohio
2015 - SHS Winter Percussion - Musical Arts Conference A class Champions
2015 - SHS Winter Percussion - A Class Semi-Finalists - 25th place in International Competition- Dayton, Ohio
2015 - SHS Concert Band - Participants in USBands Concert Series at the Verizon Kimmel Center - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
2016 - SHS Marching Band - Performed the National Anthem at Citi Field for a New York Mets home game - Queens, NYC

National Honor Society

Strawberry Hill Players

SHS Strength and Conditioning

Student Clubs - Alphabetical A-I

Student clubs and organizations often form the backbone of high schools. Although these activities may not receive as much recognition as other activities, they provide opportunities and experiences that are beneficial to students, the school district, and often the community. While in high school, it is important for students to join school clubs.

There are four great reasons you should join a club in high school. Being in a club gets you involved with other people and builds the necessary group work skills that you will need in both college and the work place. Second, club activities look good on resumes and college applications. They open up scholarship opportunities as well. Thirdly you get involved and make good friends. Fourth they can help you decide on a college major which will set you on a career path early.

If you don't see a club that interests you - find an advisor and form your own.

3D Printing

Join the 3D printing revolution. Come and learn or come and teach others to design and use the 3D printer. This club will discuss 3D printing trends and create 3D design. No experience necessary. Meets on alernating Mondays afterschool and before school with Ms. Marchisio in the Library Learning Commons.

Check out the SHS 3D Printing website!

Animal Rights Club –

This club strives to help protect animals in and beyond our community. The club meets weekly to discuss a range of community service activities to help animals in need. The club promotes awareness of animal abuse as well as raises money and donations to help local animals in need. Our food and toy drive for animals is an annual event that helps thousands of animals in Stamford, CT.

Biology Club – Advisor: Mr. Halmeck

The club allows students to decide the direction, but most recently the club's activities have consisted of two annual trips: The Boston Science Museum/Aquarium and the Annual Whale Watch. Meets monthly by announcement.

Book Discussion Club

Students and staff are invited to attend a monthly discussion centered on a book selected by active participants. Books are available in the Media Center prior to the meeting. We have purchased multiple copies of books since we received grant money from FOSH, and we also borrow multiple copies of books from the Ferguson Library. Flyers are posted throughout the school and in the media center before a meeting, and announcements are made a day prior to the meeting.

Build On – Advisors: Mr. Gladstone

BuildOn is a not for profit organization devoted to the causes of global education and volunteer service. Members participate in local volunteer service opportunities, raise awareness of global issues related to education and poverty and foster sponsorship with the end of goal of building schools in participation countries. Check out our site: buildOn Website

Cam Club (Cartoons (Comics), Animation, & Manga!)

We meet and discuss entertainment arts. We may sketch, discuss characters, designs, illustrators, and story lines. We anticipate going on a field trip to a comic-related event. We will try to bring more comics and manga into the school library. We immerse ourselves in Japanese culture and knowledge of comic art. We plan to raise money and learn how to get into the comic industry. Meetings every Monday and Tuesday after school Media Center.

Cardio Club

Come get in shape and stay heart healthy - open to all Stamford High student! Tuesdays & Thursdays 2:15pm - 3:15pm in Cardio room 403. Please have gym attire an sneakers (shorts, t-shirts, sweatpants).

Cancer Awareness – Advisor: Ms. Chacra

Enabling and empowering students to create awareness, raise money, and collect books all in the interest of aiding cancer patients during and after treatment. Meets first Monday of every month directly after school..

Chess Club – Advisor: Mr. Sartor

Come to play chess and practice for local tournaments. Everyone is welcome! Meets in room 827 on Thursdays 2:15pm - 3:30pm.

Chemistry Club/Stem Activities – Advisor: Mrs. Kaiser

Our purpose is to enable students to immerse themselves in the field of chemistry as well as STEM through a variety of means,including but not limited to the following: applying fundamental concepts in experiments, exploring career opportunities in chemistry/STEM through field trips and guest speakers,
investigating the application of chemistry/STEM to everyday life and helping to share understanding of and expertise in chemistry/STEM with younger
students and peers via elementary school visits and SHS peer tutoring. Here is the link to our website: Chemistry Club/Stem Activities

Class of 2015 - Advisors:
Class of 2016 - Advisors: Ms. Fraser
Class of 2017 - Advisor:
Class of 2018 - Advisor: Ms Valentine

Debate Team – Advisor: Mr. White

The club holds weekly meetings to prepare for debate meets which occur each month. This club helps to build speaking and critical thinking skills, and knowledge of current events. Meets Wednesdays after school.

DECA –

The Distributive Education Clubs of America is a national club where students who participate learn the fundamentals of marketing and business. The focus is on fundraising for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. There are state competitions and members help to manage the school store. Dates to be announced.

Drama Club/Tech – Advisors: Mrs. Nerreau; Mr. Desalvo

The award winning Drama Club is responsible for producing the fall play, the spring musical and several other productions during the year, also including a one act festival and a play to bring to the Connecticut Drama Association Festival, which the club has won, 4 of the last 6 years. Meets Mondays after school in the auditorium.

Fashion Club – Advisor:

This club will discuss fashion and the industry. Members will do fashion sketching and construct fashion items. Meetings are held in Room 640 on Tuesdays from 2:15pm - 3:30pm

Family, Career and Community Leaders of America – Advisor: Mrs. Chacra

This club is a national Career and Technical Student Organization that provides personal growth, leadership development, and career preparation opportunities for students in Career and Technical Education. Meetings are held after school on Mondays.

Food For Thought Club – Advisor: Ms. Townes

This club works to fight hunger in our community through various activities including: Stocking shelves at the Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County, run Food Drives, serve lunches at a local shelter, and serve Holiday Meals at St. Luke's Church on Christmas Eve. Meetings TBA.

Future Business Leaders of America – Advisor: Ms. Mackey

FBLA is a national organization that prepares students for careers in the business world. We are responsible for running the school store and providing students with practical business and leadership experience. Meets monthly after school.

Haitian Club – Advisor:

This is a club where the Haitian students meet and celebrate traditional Haitian holidays. Meets every Thursday.

H.U.G.S. – Advisor: Ms. Segal, LCSW

Help Unite Gays and Straights is open to all SHS students. Stamford High's Gay Straight Alliance. Meets every Wednesday after school in room 118. Open to all students who support LGBTQ peers or who are themselves gay, bi-sexual, or questioning. This group provides support, encourages advocacy and education, as well as safe schools.

Interact Club – Advisors: Ms. Mackey

The club participates in various community service projects such as gift wrapping, Earth Day clean up, and food drives. It provides services with its affiliation with Big Brother/Big Sister, the Rotary Club, Salvation Army bell ringing, Pennies for Patients, etc. Meets every other Monday.

Student Clubs Alphabetical J-Z

Jazz Band - Advisor: Mr. Michalko

Knightly Review – Advisors: Ms. DeAngeles, Ms. Hadsell

The Knightly Review is Stamford High School's Literary Magazine. Along with the Creative Writing class, members of the club will write, edit, revise and publish their work! If you love to write creatively, this is the club for you!

Light Club – Advisor: Mrs. Paci & Mr. Gladstone

Come meet new people and learn about your faith. Mondays Room 614.

Marching Band – Advisor: Mr. Michalko

Math Club – Advisors: Mr. Sartor

The Math Team takes competitive math exams at the county, state, and national level. It is an award winning team. Scores do not become a part of students' records unless they request them to be. The Math Club meets the first an last Wednesdays of each month, in room 827. All new and old members are welcome. The tests consist of six questions.

National Art Honor Society

NAHS is an organization of artists who wish to provide art experiences is the community. Students are selected on academic merit, moral character, and service to community. Annual activities include the Mini-Masterpiece Art Contest and financial contribution to the Melissa Todd Memorial Scholarship Fund. Meetings are held in the Art Department by announcement. Meet Tuesdays after school - 3rd floor.

National Honor Society – Advisors:

The National Honor Society recognizes those students who demonstrate superior scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Peer tutoring is a major activity of this group. A GPA of 3.4 or higher, demonstrated superior character, leadership, and service and endorsement by the selection committee are required for membership. (Juniors and Seniors only)

Open Studio Art – Advisors:

Meets in the Art Department, 3rd floor.

Orchestra – Advisor: Ms. Herveiux

This is an elective class open to all string players and any wind, brass or percussion players interested in playing orchestral repertoire. Auditions are by appointment. The group performs at all school concerts and various community venues including the Stamford Town Center. Attendance required at all performances. We will meet daily.

Physics Club – Advisor: Mr. DelGuidice

The Physics Club provides students the opportunity to learn the applications of physics principles by developing review activities, participating in field trips, and sponsoring guest lectures and visits to local industries. Students participate in the Yale Physics Olympiad and other contests, as well as promote the science of physics to other students in the middle and elementary schools. The club meets Thursdays.

Poetry Slam – Advisor: Mr. Ringel

Meets monthly in the Spring.

Recycling Club – Advisor: Mr. Katz

Our goal is to recycle plastics at SHS and to encourage our peers to be aware of the amount of materials they waste each day. Meets the second and fourth Wednesday of each month in Room 925.

Round Table – Advisors: Mr. Ringel

The Round Table is an elective production course open to all 11th and 12th graders who have taken the required English courses. Sophomores may be considered on an individual basis. The staff is responsible for the publication of the school newspaper. Any student with an interest in journalism and related activities, such as writing, graphics, researching, computer productions, advertising, business, and leadership is welcome. All students are welcome to submit articles for publication. A time commitment is critical. shsroundtable.com

Shakti Literacy Club – Advisor: Ms Clarke

A school-based group that fights for both education opportunities and gender equality. Join us Thursdays in Ms Clarke's room and support our visions for advancing this movement. Male participants are especially encouraged to come and help further this female cause!

Ski and Snowboard Club – Advisor: Mr. Kelley

The objective of this club is to give students the opportunity to pursue the fun activity. The club plans trips to ski and snowboard resorts. Meets after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays surrounding the trip weekends.

Strawberry Hill Improv Players – Advisor: Ms. Nerreau

S.H.I.P. meets once a week to practice improv skills such as those featured on "Whose Line is it Anyway?" S.H.I.P. puts on 3-4 shows per year. Meets Wednesdays at 5:00pm in the auditorium.

Tech Crew – Advisor: Mr. DeSalvo

This activity is an integral part of the Strawberry Hill Players. Responsibilities include: set design and building, lighting, sound, developing special effects where needed, handling of properties, care and maintenance of the stage and its environs, plus a myriad of other activities. Stage crew is open to all students interested in participating in theater activities and developing good friends.

Tri-M Music Honor Society

Tri-M stands for Modern, Music, Masters which is a program sponsored by the Music Educators National Conference (MENC), an international music honor society that motivates and recognizes musical achievement. Students are invited to join based on their musical achievement, commitment, dedication, and attitude. Membership is an honor conferred on a student by the music faculty and current membership for their accomplishments. Activities include planning recitals, fundraising, publicity for concerts, etc. Annual membership fee is required. Tuesdays after school Room 402.

Winter Percussion

An ensemble group open to any student with musical experience and an interest in playing a percussion instrument. Winter Percussion combines music and marching to create a theatrical presentation with a theme. This ensemble requires auditions and starts rehearsing their show in December and performs through April. This group has received both State and Regional championship titles and competes nationally.

Yearbook – Advisor: Mr. Lutz & Ms. Wingertzahn

This elective class is open to sophomores, juniors and seniors, taking Design and Publication. Students are responsible for all facets of production including development of a theme, writing copy, selecting photographs, designing layout, and selling ads to businesses and books to the student body.

SHS Roundtable

Upward Bound College Prep

About Upward Bound

What is Upward Bound?

The Upward Bound (UB) Program is a federally-funded TRIO program, which was established by the U.S. Department of Education in 1965. Upward Bound prepares underserved and/or first-generation college-bound students in grades 9 through 12 for success in high school, enrollment in college, and ultimately college graduation.

All services are provided at no cost to participants.

Vision Statement

Students in the Upward Bound College Prep Program will participate in robust and rigorous learning experiences in and out of the classroom that will increase their academic achievement, cultural awareness, and knowledge of higher education. Five years from now each student will be academically prepared, emotionally matured, and on track to complete an undergraduate program of study.

The Four Main Values of the Upward Bound College Prep Program are:

Responsibility – Each student is responsible for their performance and academics.
Scholarship – Academic performance, educational insight, and learning.
Perseverance – Working through complex issues that arise.
Uplift – Representing Upward Bound, Stamford High, family, and supporting those in need.

The Upward Bound Program provides:

A supportive learning environment that provides academic advising, instruction and tutoring.
Dedicated faculty and staff experienced and trained in all aspects of the program.
A challenging curriculum in a small setting designed to evaluate and strengthen student comprehension, study, and problem-solving skills.
An intensive six-week summer program with academic, cultural, and social activities.
Cultural enrichment trips- both locally and nationally to increase global awareness and acceptance.
Community service projects to increase citizenship skills and civic engagement.
Assistance in the college admissions process including campus tours, financial aid and scholarship research.

Types of Projects

Upward Bound projects provide academic instruction in mathematics, laboratory sciences, composition, literature, and foreign languages. As well as tutoring, counseling, mentoring, cultural enrichment, education and counseling services designed to improve the financial and economic literacy of the students.

Additional Information

Year-round services provided by Upward Bound include:

A 6-week summer instructional component at University of Connecticut that is designed to simulate a college-going experience that includes daily coursework in math, english, and science as well as other related activities such as field trips and special events.
Individual assistance with college admissions and the financial aid application process during the school year
Field trips to college campuses, career exploration and cultural enrichment activities

Upward Bound participants are selected using the following criteria:

Indicate an interest in attending college
Would benefit from additional academic support
May qualify as Low Income and/or Potential First Generation College Graduate (neither parent has received a 4-year degree)
Commit to remain active in Upward Bound until high school graduation
Must be a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident

Activities & Services

Academic Year Program:

The ultimate outcome of the academic year program is for the student to achieve at a higher level, persist and as a result, apply to and enroll in a college of their choice.

9th and 10th grade students participate in:

After-school meetings and tutoring sessions
Monthly Saturday programs
Approved community projects
Cultural and/or academic events
College-preparatory curriculum

11th grade students participate in:

After-school meetings and tutoring sessions
Saturday programs
Program approved community projects
An intensive program series focused on ACT/SAT prep
Cultural and/or academic events

12th grade students participate in:

After-school meetings and tutoring sessions
Saturday programs
Pre-college course offered by Upward Bound
A full college prep curriculum
Maintain records of college applications and list the procedures
Complete all necessary steps for college acceptance by January of senior year
Search for scholarship opportunities and apply for college acceptance by January of senior year
Graduate from high school
Enroll in a college or university of choice

Summer Program

The summer program runs for six weeks and spanning from July through August. Students must complete the eighth grade and participate in the academic year in order to be eligible. During the summer, students will take classes held at The University of Connecticut – Stamford Campus, an environment much like the one they will experience when in college.

Summer Academic Classes (July 8th - August 16th)

The summer academic classes are scheduled from 9:00am to 3:00pm with a 30-minute lunch break. Subjects taught are english, math, science, and foreign language. Courses will be taught to CAPT performance objectives and/or collegiate expectations by faculty.

Classes are held:
Monday - Friday
9:00am - 3:00pm
University Connecticut Stamford Campus

Activities / Field Trips

Students will experience many cultural activities. In the past field trips have included visits to the Mark Twain Museum in Connecticut and the Museum of the Moving Image in New York City.

School Year Tutoring (October - June)

The academic year tutorials are designed to provide a stimulating learning experience that is more graduated than traditional high school courses. The smaller class setting will allow teachers to provide more intimate learning experiences.

Classes held:
Monday, Tuesday and Thursday
2:15pm - 4:15pm
Stamford High School - Room 624C
Saturday Component (October - June)

Saturday Program

We require students to attend approximately two Saturday programs a month. These Saturday sessions are designed to complement the learning experience by providing enriching experiences such as college tours, community service projects, and other workshops.

Programs are held:
Two Saturdays a month at various locations

Upward Bound FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Upward Bound?

The Upward Bound program provides fundamental support to participants in their preparation for college entrance. Guided by the belief that education should be available to all persons with the potential to succeed at that level, the program provides opportunities for participants to succeed in high school academic performance and subsequent higher education pursuits. The goal of the program is to increase the rate at which participants complete secondary education, enroll in and graduate from institutions of post-secondary education.

How much does it cost?

There is absolutely no cost to participate in the Upward Bound program. As a federally funded program, all costs are paid. However, the program does not cover personal purchases (i.e. souvenirs).

What is the application process?

All prospective students must complete an application for admission. A completed application, if entering in the 9th grade, includes the submission of the following documents: copy of 8th grade report card, copy of CMT scores, recommendation from middle school counselor and teacher, personal statement, signed copy of parent's most recent tax forms, and any supplemental documentation to support income statement.

In addition, applicants are interviewed by members of the Upward Bound staff.

How are students selected?

Applicants are selected based on a combination of factors: completed application, essay, recommendations, grades, need, and interview. However, all applicants must meet the income and/or first-generation status requirements to be considered for the program.

What if my child did not receive an acceptance letter?

Candidates who did not receive an acceptance letter may be placed on our waiting list and will be notified if any new spots become available. Some candidates will receive a rejection letter. These candidates can reapply the following year if they are in the 9th grade.

What the program's expectations for participants?

Participants are expected to commit to Upward Bound until they graduate from high school. In committing to the program, students should attend all mandatory sessions and turn in all required documents at the time they are due. Additionally, students are required to exhibit appropriate behavior at all UB sponsored events and respect UB staff, peers, and themselves at all times. Students and parents sign a contract pledging their agreement to uphold UB standards upon entering the program.

What services are provided to current participants?

Upward Bound offers an Academic Year component where students receive supplemental instruction in academic, cultural, and social areas, as well as a Summer component - an intensive six-week instructional program that prepares students for their next semester. All services are provided through a federally funded grant and are free to the participant.

Academic Year Component

Students receive numerous services that enhance their social and academic development, including:

Instruction in reading, writing, mathematics, foreign language and other subjects necessary for success in high school
Academic, financial, and personal counseling
Exposure to cultural events
Mentoring
Tutoring
Assistance with postsecondary opportunities.

Summer Residential Component

The Summer Residential component is by invitation only. If chosen to participate, students receive the services offered during the Academic Year in addition to:

Career work-study and exploration
Academic preparation for the fall semester while studying at the UConn Stamford Campus

Does Upward Bound provide financial support for participants attending post-secondary education?

No. However, Upward Bound will provide resources and materials to help students/parents pay for their post-secondary education. For example, but not limited to, filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

What are the benefits associated with joining Upward Bound?

Some of the benefits associated with joining our program include:

Access to a personal Academic Advisor geared to help you succeed in high school and beyond
Exposure to a plethora of cultural and college activities
Participation in an intensive 6-week academic experience
Preparation for standardized tests (PSAT, SAT, ACT)
Assistance with the admission and financial aid processes

Do I have to reapply every year?

No. Once accepted into Upward Bound you are in the program until you graduate from high school.

Does my participation with Upward Bound guarantee my admission into UConn?

No. The Upward Bound program is a federally funded program and cannot guarantee admission to any post-secondary institution. If a student is interested in attending UConn, we can help facilitate the process. However, the student must meet the basic requirements of the university's admissions office

StacyAnn Reid

Director, Upward Bound

sreid@stamfordct.gov

Saleh Jahangir
Upward Bound Project Advisor

sjahangir@stamfordct.gov

More Information

Who Is Served

Upward Bound College Prep Program will serve approximately sixty (60) students in Stamford High School.

Once accepted into the Upward Bound College Prep Program, students are expected to participate in the program until they graduate from high school.

Following graduation students are expected to enter into college.

Selection

Students are selected based on the following:

Indicate an interest in attending college.
Demonstrated academic potential.
Willing to commit to program requirements.
Parental support / involvement.

Expectations

Eligibility & Applications

Students can apply after completing the eight grade, but before they complete eleventh grade. Potential participants range from 13 to 18 years of age. Students MUST also meet the criteria specified below:

Be a potential first-generation college student (This means that a participant will be the first in her/his family to earn a four-year college degree.)

And/Or
Meet the income guidelines set by the federal government.
For more information contact the Upward Bound Office by phone at (203) 977-4271 or email: click here.