Clubs at Hunt Intermediate are teaching lessons outside the classroom

COLUMBUS, Miss. (CMSD) – Some of the best memories a student can have are being a member of a school club with their friend. What students may not realize is that the organization is a social and academic connection to their classroom.

That’s the vision behind the various clubs and organizations that live inside Hunt Intermediate School.

“I want students to have the opportunity to see things, to experience things, and be a part of something bigger than themselves,” said Hunt Intermediate Principal Dr. Monte Ewing Johnson.

Students can choose between various clubs, including book club, art club, robotics, chess, pep squad, student council, or Beta Club.

There’s also a leadership program and Spoons Across America experience for students.

“They are learning how to cook in some classes. These are dishes these kids would never have an opportunity to experience if not for coming to school. School is more than reading, writing, and math,” said Ewing Johnson.

Volunteers also play an instrumental role in making these clubs possible. For instance, the Agriculture Club is organized by Lowndes County 4-H. This is where students learn about where our food comes from and how crops grow.  

The principal believes students make a better connection to their academic lessons if they can make a sensory connection, such as taste or touch, with the words they are learning in class. The goal is to make learning hands-on and interactive.

“We have leaders here at Hunt. I want them to see the leader inside themselves. Everyone is leading someone. They just need to see and believe,” said Ewing Johnson. “I believe they can find a purpose in these organizations and grow academically using the skills they are developing.”

Ewing Johnson hopes people in the community will volunteer at the school and with students to share their talents. If you would like to help, email her at ewingm@ColumbusCitySchools.org