STUDENT PROGRAMS AND ACTIVITIES
In support of our school philosophy to educate the whole child in the physical, social, intellectual, and emotional realms, we believe that special programs and activities are an integral part of the curriculum, offering students opportunities to explore new possibilities, pursue individual interests, and discover personal strengths and talents. We further believe that an effective activities program teaches participants the value of cooperation and spirit of teamwork, providing opportunities to engage in healthy competition and strengthen the sense of community.
ASOY Program Committee
The Program Committee provides oversight for events and activities at ASOY and is chaired by the Athletic Director. The committee meets on a monthly basis. Members include instructional leaders, the Recreation Center manager, and sponsors of extracurricular programs / organizations as relevant.
Clubs and Organizations
A variety of clubs and organizations are offered for students, depending on student interest and the availability of resources. A wide range of activities and sports are offered after school, scheduled from 3:30 – 4:30 pm, and on weekends.
Students may stay after school to work on assignments in the Library, provided they are on task and completing school work. However, due to safety concerns and lack of supervision, students are not allowed to be in other areas of the school if they are not participating in a school sport or other scheduled extra-curricular activity.
Clubs and organizations offered in the middle and high school include the Student Council, the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society, as well as others based on student and teacher interest and resources. In addition to activities offered through the school, the ASOY Recreation Club offers a variety of after school and weekend activities and lessons for students, to include tennis and swimming lessons, hip hop dancing, ballet and yoga, African drumming, various sports clinics and tournaments, and summer programs. Lessons offered through the Club are subject to an additional fee to compensate for hiring outside instructors.
Mt. Cameroon Expedition
Every year, a group of ASOY parents and students embarks on a hike up Mt. Cameroon, an active volcano towering 4,070 meters (13,353 ft) over the ocean in the South West of Cameroon. Extensive training and preparation is required. Students in Grades 7-12 are eligible to participate, as well as parents willing to act as chaperones. The purpose of the trip is not to provide a family vacation, but rather to afford a group experience in which all participants work together to ensure a successful venture for everyone. The coordinator of this event reserves the right to deny participation to any student or parent who is not physically prepared and/or does not attend training sessions and/or poses a risk to the group.
Model United Nations
Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations that aims to educate participants about civics, effective communication, globalization and multilateral diplomacy. In Model UN, students take on roles as foreign diplomats and participate in a simulated session of an intergovernmental organization (IGO). Participants research a country, take on roles as diplomats, investigate international issues, debate, deliberate, consult, and then develop solutions to world problems.
ASOY students have participated in MUN for several years in such locations as St. Petersburg, Russia; Nairobi, Kenya; and Genoa, Italy. Participation is limited to students in Grades 11 and 12 and is dependent on academic standing and teacher recommendation. The MUN trip is at parental expense; however, students are expected to participate in fundraisers to contribute to the cost of their trip.
South African Science Festival
The South African Science Festival takes place in Grahamstown, the home of Rhodes University. Over 500 different presentations are included in the festival, to include lectures, demonstrations, talk-shops, and workshops. This is an annual event typically lasting seven days. Well-known scientists from all over the world accept invitations to participate in the festival, and the events cover all aspects of science including physics, chemistry, biology, astronomy and mathematics. Participation in this event is limited to Grade 11 and 12 high school students and is dependent on academic standing, teacher recommendation, and participation in preparation sessions. The South African Science Festival trip is at parental expense; however, students are expected to participate in fundraisers to contribute to the cost of their trip.
Student Council
The Middle School and High School Student Councils are comprised of elected representatives from each grade level, grades 6-12. The main focus of the Student Council is to promote education and student recognition; build school spirit and a positive environment; and participate in student governance by providing input concerning school policies, procedures, and guidelines. The Student Council is responsible for planning and organizing the annual ASOY Spirit Week in the fall, as well as other events scheduled during the school year. To be elected to the Student Council, a student must have high academic standing and be a positive role model in the school community.
National Honor Society
Membership in the National Honor Society and National Junior Honor Society is both an honor and a responsibility. Students are eligible for membership based on Scholarship (GPA), Service, Character and Leadership are selected by a faculty committee. Selection takes place in April, followed by an induction ceremony honoring new members. Students selected are expected to continue demonstrating the requisite qualities and to actively participate in activities sponsored by NHS and NJHS. NHS and NJHS members are active participants serving the school community in a variety of ways, from planning special events, tutoring other students, and initiating school projects.
Odyssey of the Mind
Odyssey of the Mind is an experience that teaches students to learn creative problem-solving methods while having fun in the process. For more than twenty five years, this unique program has helped teachers generate excitement in their students. By tapping into creativity, and through encouraging imaginative paths to problem-solving, students learn skills that will provide them with the ability to solve problems -- great and small -- for a lifetime. Participation in this event is open to students in elementary school and to students in Grades 6-10, and requires commitment, dedication, and attendance at all preparation sessions. Admission to the program is dependent on academic standing, teacher recommendation, and participation at preparation sessions. The Odyssey of the Mind trip is at parental expense; however, students are expected to participate in fundraisers to contribute to the cost of the trip.
