Interact, DECA, HOSA, and Environmental Club are just a few of the many clubs that are seen posting daily on Schoology, but what are the cultural clubs in Indian Hills all about?
Indian Hills is home to a rich variety of cultural clubs that go beyond typical school activities, offering students a place to connect, celebrate heritage, and build community. While they may not always be in the spotlight, these clubs bring unique traditions, events, and learning opportunities to the student body, making Indian Hills a more inclusive and vibrant place.
Indian Hills is full of culture clubs, but they often do not get as much attention as they should. Each featuring atmospheres where students can make an impact within the school community, these clubs are just as important as any other to make students feel educated and welcomed. One of the newer cultural clubs is the Jewish Culture Club. This club is mainly about spreading awareness about the Jewish culture as well as creating a safe and fun environment for the Jewish community. Natalie Portnoy, a member and leader of the Jewish Culture Club, says, “It’s important to raise awareness about the community of Jewish students at Indian Hills, especially with a rise in antisemitism.” The Jewish Culture Club holds many events such as Hamantaschen dipping, roasting marshmallows, and creating fruit platters to donate to the local community while getting students involved and spreading Jewish culture throughout the school. Portnoy explains that one of her favorite club events of the year is “one we do for Hanukkah. Last year we painted menorahs, played fun games, and won prizes!” Overall, the Jewish Culture Club provides an opportunity for students to celebrate holidays and find a community within Indian Hills.
Transitioning into pizza and pasta, another culture club is the Italian Club. Recently gaining more recognition, the Italian Club works to spread Italian culture throughout the school while keeping students interested and educated. President Anna Schunke says, “Our goal with the Italian club is to immerse Indian Hills students in Italian culture.” The Italian Club holds monthly meetings that work to educate the student body and have fun. According to Schunke, “Some ways the club spreads Italian culture in school include holding monthly meetings, tasting Italian foods, working with other culture clubs on events, and advertising at club fairs.” Whether students are Italian or not, new members are always welcome. The Italian Club allows students to learn more about Italian culture while staying involved in school activities.
Next is the French Club, which is a community of students who share a passion for the French language and are interested in exploring French culture, customs, and tradition. The club meets and hosts many activities throughout the year, such as holiday celebrations, French food tastings, listening to French music, presentations about French traditions, and French games. When asked about her favorite event, French Club Advisor Madame Deming stated, “Our favorite event for the past few years has been the ‘Friendsgiving’ Party we have held in November, where we celebrate with the other language and culture clubs at the school. Also, our crêpe-making event was a huge success.”
The Spanish Club allows students to learn more about the Spanish culture, taste delicious guacamole, and learn more about the language. The Spanish Club promotes the studying and awareness of the Spanish language through meetings, events, and even writing letters for an organization called Meals on Wheels.
If anyone is interested in learning more about different cultures, it is highly recommended that students join the Indian Hills culture clubs where they can expand their knowledge, make new friends, and try new foods.
