Schoolcraft High School Student Connects with Peers through Competitive Spirit
Schoolcraft, Mich. – As students settle into the rhythm of the new school year, one particular ninth grader is finding joy and connection through his diverse interests. Zak Stultz, a student at Schoolcraft High School, is enthusiastic about his participation in both the marching band and the Tabletop Club. With his trombone in hand, Zak expresses optimism for the upcoming season. “It’s going to be pretty good. I’m a decent trombone player,” he says confidently, reflecting a sense of anticipation for his role in the band.
A Passion for Music and Competition
However, music is just one facet of Zak’s high school experience. His competitive spirit shines brightly in the Tabletop Club, where students gather to play board games and engage in role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons. It is in this club that his love for games merges with camaraderie. “If you’re in a game of Uno and you hit me with four Draw Fours in a row, I might flip the table over,” Zak shares, underscoring just how invested he is in the competitive aspect of these games.
A Place for Connections
The Tabletop Club, led by teacher Karl Schook, offers an outlet beyond traditional sports for students to explore their creativity and competitive instincts. Schook notes that there are limited opportunities for collaborative and competitive experiences in many schools. “Unfortunately, outside of athletics, there just aren’t a lot of opportunities for collaboration and competition that’s free and available to everybody,” he states. The club has become an attractive option for students seeking a way to express their competitive nature while fostering friendships.
Zak’s experience in the Tabletop Club is indicative of its popularity, drawing around 15 students to each meeting. “That may not seem like a lot, but you think about how many kids are on the basketball team, so I think we’re on par with some sports teams in terms of popularity,” Schook emphasizes. This comparison highlights the growing interest in clubs that foster creativity and social interaction.
Addressing Mental Health
In today’s educational landscape, mental health is a significant concern, and clubs like the Tabletop Club play an essential role in supporting students. Schook explains the benefit of providing a space where students can connect and form friendships. “To have this opportunity can save them a lot of distress and a lot of alienation and loneliness. They can find community,” he notes. The importance of camaraderie and connection cannot be overstated, especially for students who may feel isolated.
Zak echoes this sentiment: “It gets me closer to my friends that I already have. And it could introduce me to friends that I have yet to meet.” This perspective highlights how clubs can serve as crucial social networks, allowing students to build lasting relationships and feel more integrated within their school community.
Conclusion
In a world where many students juggle academic challenges alongside social dynamics, finding a community through shared interests, as Zak Stultz does, is invaluable. Whether through music or tabletop games, the opportunities to connect and engage with others are essential for the overall well-being of students. Schoolcraft High School, through initiatives like the Tabletop Club and its robust music programs, is fostering an environment where students not only excel academically but also form meaningful connections.
