|
Extracurricular Activities
Perhaps the greatest single factor that influences student perceptions of their high school years is those groups and activities that fall under the heading of Student Life. Certainly these are the places in which students identify their interests, develop friendships, perform service to their school and community, and, in general, become the well-rounded person each of us seeks to be. Doss offers a full range of clubs and organizations, both during and outside the school day. The faculty and staff are committed to sponsoring and coordinating these activities to make them something special in the students' lives.
Beta ClubBeta Club is a national academic organization that stresses service, both at school and in the community. Applications for membership are offered to sophomores, juniors, and seniors who have at least a 2.85 GPA and meet other criteria for membership, including evaluation by the faculty and staff. Candidates are evaluated in the areas of scholarship, leadership, and character. In order to continue as a member and receive recognition upon graduation, members must accumulte eight service points per year. Membership applications are available after the first fall grading period. National Honor SocietyThe National Honor Society is an organization developed to recognize students who have made contributions to the school and community as leaders, citizens, and scholars. The faculty, focusing primarily on academic qualifications, makes selection to the group. Sophomores must have a 3.5 GPA, and juniors and seniors must have a 3.25 GPA. Members are called upon to help whenever and wherever needed in the school or community. Some of the past activities of this group have included the JCPS Homework Hotline, tutoring, and hosting and ushering at school-related events. Quick-Recall Academic TeamDoss has an outstanding record in academic competitions as represented by the Quick-Recall Academic Team. Students who participate in this prestigious organization develop skills and knowledge that greatly compliments and enhance classroom achievement. Although above average academic performance is not a prerequisite for participation, many of the team members are among the top students in their classes. One goal of this team is to prepare students to someday participate in the "Jeopardy Teen Tournament." Doss offers both varsity and junior varsity competitive teams, and all students are invited to participate. MTRPThe Minority Teacher Recruitment Program (MTRP) is an organization divided into two groups: Grades nine and ten and grades eleven and twelve. Students must have a 2.5 GPA and be seriously considering a career in education. The members visit various colleges and universities to see teacher-preparation programs. Students also attend various conferences and seminars, both in state as well as out-of-state, which focus on the process of becoming a teacher. The students also assist in tutoring elementary students in order to experience what teaching can be. The University of Louisville sponsors the program. Each year a scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior to further his/her college education in preparation of becoming a successful teacher. Red CrossThe Doss Red Cross Chapter, in conjunction with the Students Against Driving Drunk (S.A.D.D.) Chapter, holds an annual blood drive in the fall of the year. Doss has received many awards for this effort, including having the most first-time donors of any high school in Jefferson County. Red Cross members truly perform a vital community service. S.A.D.D.Students Against Driving Drunk (S.A.D.D.) exists to raise awareness in the student body and the community about the dangers of drinking and drug abuse as they relate to driving. Part of a national organization of the same name, members each year take part in assembling the "Chain of Life," which asks students to commit to not driving and drinking by signing a link in the chain. S.A.D.D. also sponsors " Operation Sober" before the Junior Ring Dance and the Senior Prom. Doss is committed to educating teens about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse and to helping students learn how to deal with destructive peer pressure. DramaDrama is offered as apart of the regular curriculum at doss. Student's experience a wide range of activities related to the theater. Students study monologues, improvisation, pantomime, and ensemble acting. They are exposed to musical theater and the classics. Drama students prepare pieces for presentation in class as well as for the school and the public. Drama class is open and encourages enrollment by all students in grades nine through twelve. Tryouts are held in the spring. Pep ClubThe Pep Club is for those who want to show their school spirit and get "fired up" for games and other activities such as testing periods. Members are expected to attend games and events and to support all the teams at Doss. FCCLAThe FCCLA or Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America is a national vocational education organization for students enrolled in Family and Consumer Sciences and related courses. The goal of FCCLA is to promote personal growth and leadership development. FCCLA members participate in a variety of school and community service activities through the year. YearbookThe Doss yearbook, The Myth, is a valuable resource each year for students, faculty, and parents to become familiar with the school. Taking pictures, designing layouts, organizing picture days, and meeting publication deadlines are just some of the fun and exciting activities awaiting the members of the yearbook staff. NewspaperThe Dossmopolitan is a regular publication of students' prose, poetry, editorials, features, and art. The newspaper truly provides a voice for the students. Both yearbook and newspaper are offered as classes, with admission by teacher approval. Student SenateThe Student Senate is an elected body of students from each grade level who meet with the principal and staff members to discuss issues relevant to the school, and community at-large. Democratic principles are taught and encouraged, philanthropy is introduced, and a forum for student voice and involvement is fostered. |