There’s plenty to do after the last bell rings at Wantagh Middle School, and students got to check out a wide array of after-school options during the second annual Club Fair on Oct. 8. There were 25 extracurricular activities showcased during the fair.

Held in the gymnasium, all sixth, seventh and eighth graders were invited to walk around and learn about the diverse clubs. Students can explore a variety of interests from art to science to community service. Each table featured club advisers and existing club members, who answered questions about activities, meeting schedules and more. 

There were a few new clubs this year including Best Buddies, which pairs general education and special education students together to promote inclusion through games and activities. Morgan’s Message, an established club at Wantagh High School, is launching a middle school chapter this year. Wantagh Wavelength is a multimedia journalism club in which students will produce a monthly video news program. 

Interactive activities helped draw students to the tables. They could experience the eSports Club by playing Mario Kart and look into microscopes at the Science Research Club. With cookies for the taking, attendees could literally get a taste of the Home and Career Club. There was a QR code at each table for students to learn more about clubs they might want to join.

Assistant Principal Rachel Quattrocchi said many of the older students at the tables joined their respective clubs following last year’s inaugural Club Fair. She noted that the clubs are open to anyone and don’t require prior knowledge of a skill to join, like how to crochet or play chess. Simply show up and learn. 

The event is particularly beneficial to sixth graders, who recently came together from three elementary schools, Ms. Quattrocchi explained. They get to meet peers with similar interests.

“We want them to get involved,” she said. “They can make new friends and explore different interests. The research shows that students who are more involved have a better school experience.”