Do you ever catch yourself feeling bored after school, or looking for something new and fun to do during Flex time? Well then, you’re in the right place. Oyster River High School (ORHS) offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that give everyone a chance to branch out. You’ve probably noticed the posters lining the hallways with club information. From academic competitions and service organizations to meeting new people and learning new games, these groups give students the chance to explore interests and connect with others after school or during Flex. Here are some highlights of clubs happening at ORHS and how to join.
Debate Club:
The Debate Club is a competitive group for students passionate about public speaking and critical thinking. Originating as an extension of the debate class, run by Kara Sullivan, the club gives students the chance to compete in tournaments at the state and national levels. “The goal of the group is to give an angle for competition. So, it’s a different competition than sports, but it is definitely a competitive environment, and people soar,” added Sullivan. Meetings are held Tuesdays after school for about an hour and intensify before tournaments, which usually take place on weekends. To join, students can speak with Sullivan or drop by her room any Tuesday.
Socratic Society:
The Socratic Society brings students together in a circle for philosophical and controversial discussions, fostering a space to branch out socially. Meetings occur Fridays from 3:00 to 4:30, often at the Freedom Café, with food provided. Originally just a handful of participants, the club now draws 25 to 30 students each week. Interested students may simply show up or reach out to the student leaders. Founder Orion Smith (‘27) noted, “We bring people who are scared of branching out together and have them in front of each other in a comfortable setting.”
Best Buddies:
Best Buddies centers around inclusion for students with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities. Activities such as crafts, kickball, cooking, and monthly gatherings make the group both fun and welcoming. Advisor Kim Wolph explained, “It’s about making connections. It’s about welcoming all. It’s about connecting as a group and doing fun activities and really just everyone feeling included because everyone should be included.” The club’s biggest event is the May Friendship Walk, where New Hampshire chapters unite for music, food trucks, and community. Membership is open to all; students can scan the QR code near the office, talk to Wolph, or connect with Chapter President Eliza Sekera.
Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA):
FCA is open to anyone curious about faith, not only athletes. Meetings rotate between Thursday and Friday mornings and typically involve check-ins, discussion of Bible passages, and group questions. “Personally, I don’t like the name of [the club] at all, because it implies if you’re not an athlete you wouldn’t be welcome, which is totally not the case,” said advisor Jim Thibault. The club fosters a safe space where participants can comfortably explore questions of belief. Students can join by contacting Thibault or simply showing up to a meeting.
Yearbook Club:
The Yearbook Club is responsible for producing the school’s yearbook, a major commitment involving lots of creativity and teamwork. Meetings take place on Mondays and Thursdays from 3:00 to 4:00, with added sessions near deadlines. Members generate ideas, design pages, take photos, and manage deadlines and marketing. “You literally publish a book. If you’re interested in publishing, design, photo editing, this is a great way to show you’re organized and committed,” stated advisor Brianna Arsenault. Even students with limited time can contribute by signing out a camera to take photos at events.
Distributive Education Clubs for America (DECA):
New this year, DECA prepares students for career fields like hospitality, marketing, management, and finance through hands-on learning. Activities include tackling business case studies and possibly attending team-based competitions. “It...equips you with the things you need for any kind of career in a business field,” Arsenault added. The group meets during Flex periods, and any interested students should see Arsenault to join.
Red Cross Club:
The Red Cross Club is dedicated to service by running fundraisers, blood drives (five scheduled for this year), and educational safety projects such as updating fire maps around the school. Meetings are typically Thursdays (board meetings) and have periodic general meetings. To join, students need to register with the Red Cross via a QR code from advisor Rob Quaglieri, provide parent permission if under 18, and participate in events. “Being part of this recognizable national organization is great for resumes and future opportunities,” stated Quaglieri. Hours are logged for community service if that is something you are interested in.
Sustainability Club:
Sustainability Club educates students around issues of environmental stewardship, like clothing swaps, no-idling campaigns, and composting projects. Leadership meets on Thursday mornings to plan initiatives, while volunteers are encouraged to join Flex meetings for hands-on work. Interested students should attend Flex meetings or contact advisor Jon Bromley. “If anyone is interested in making an impact and/or finding ways that they can make an impact around environmental issues, I mean, this is a great hands-on way to do this,” Bromley added.
Game Club:
Game Club offers a place for students to connect and build community over board and tabletop games, roleplaying, and trading card games. Meetings are on Fridays for an hour and a half and showing up is all that’s required to participate. There is no commitment to the club, so many students come as they please. The club welcomes anyone interested and is led by advisor Trevor Garman. Through play, students enhance problem-solving and social skills that lead to making lasting friendships. “It’s fun to play games and goof around. Definitely build relationships and that’s fun,” Garman said.
BioBuilders:
BioBuilders explores biotechnology through literature reviews, lab experiments, scientific conferences, and poster sessions. Meetings run once or twice a week, typically for about an hour depending on the agenda. “There’s just so much potential, especially in the job market, and if you’re interested even a little in biology, biotech is a great place to go,” said member Felix Scarlat (‘26). Students can join by contacting advisor Megan Thompson.
Be sure to attend the Club Fair on October 2nd, the perfect chance to meet directly with club leaders and discover the diverse offerings at ORHS. Whether interested in leadership, service, academic competition, creative pursuits, or building new friendships, there is truly a club for everyone at ORHS. Don’t miss the chance to get involved.
-Xander Ahn
Mouth of the River 
Leave a Reply