In an effort to get students involved in school beyond the classroom, Wright City West Elementary has implemented a myriad of extracurricular offerings over the past two years. Students concluded the 2018-19 school year with 16 different club options.“We’re looking at building more opportunities for students to connect,” said Principal Patrick Wallace. “We want to consider how we can help them build on what their passions are and provide a good overall elementary experience.”The district especially focuses on its diversity and the individual interests of each student, while helping to develop character qualities along the way.One of the most popular choices is the Kindness Club, which drew 105 students last year and required a split into two sessions to accommodate the demand.“This really centers around random acts of kindness both in the community and school,” said Wallace. “It encourages positive character and behaviors toward others.”The Kindness Club will be featured at the Missouri School Board Association meeting this weekend.Other favorites at West Elementary are the Girls on the Run club, which encourages fitness along with academics.“It’s designed to build girls’ confidence and promote physical fitness,” said Wallace.The group meets 25 times a year and combines running with reading and building character, as participants run a mile each time and read 25 books throughout the year.The school also has a Student Council through which students can practice leadership roles.“You can see a difference in the affect on the students,” said Wallace. “They seem more engaged and happier to be here and more invested.”In addition to Kindness Club, the Basketball Club also encompasses over 100 kids and brings many students into the building before class starts, ensuring they will be present for curriculum.“We’ve also seen fewer discipline referrals and more connectivity,” said Wallace. “The teachers are really enjoying this, and it’s fun for everyone involved.”Last school year West Elementary had 500 student involvements in clubs, with 280 different students participating, accounting for around 56 percent of the enrollment.“We’re hoping to get that number up even more,” said Wallace. “Our goal is to eventually get to 100 percent.”He said the district is addressing current barriers to more students being involved, including transportation.Wright City School District logo