RHO KAPPA

     Rho Kappa was established as an academic society for high school juniors and seniors in the social studies. Rho Kappa has become one of the most active clubs on campus. The students are honored for their academic performance in maintaining a minimum 3.5 GPA in their required and elective social studies classes and earn at least 8 credits upon graduation. This statewide organization encourages community service, and the attributes of leadership and good citizenship. Through membership in this organization students are involved in volunteer projects that help develop civic mindedness in their daily lives. Students learn to respect our nation's Veterans and their sacrifices as they honor school and Veteran community members. Members compile a list of faculty and staff who are Veterans or relatives of Veterans and make a banner to be hung in the main building of the school listing their names and thanking them for their service. Students present each Veteran with a thank you note and homemade cookies. We also participate in making Valentines for Veterans during the Valentines holidays.

     Students have opportunities to expand their knowledge of the social studies through field trips to our state's capital and museum exhibits. We have visited the Federal Reserve Bank to enhance students understanding of our nation's monetary system and our state capital to learn about our states decision making process. These trips enhance student awareness of their government and the value of preserving the past.

     This organization is a catalyst for our school's celebration of Freedom Week. Students create school announcements to promote Freedom Week and civic responsibility. These appear on the morning announcements and signs are hung around campus. During election year, Students also man voting booths and hold "mock elections" for the student body with election results used in classes to enhance discussions on the democratic process and teach the importance of participation of our citizens in our government. Membership in this honor society allows students to learn how to take a favorite social studies class in high school and make it part of their daily lives.