Student Voice, Choice, and Leadership at the High School Club Fair

One of the highlights early in the academic year is our buzzing annual High School Club Fair. Held earlier this month, the fair brought students from Grades 9 to 12 together to chat with student leaders, discover new interests, and find meaningful ways to become involved in life at ISKL.

Students had the chance to explore ISKL’s 15 student-led High School Service Learning clubs, as well as a wide range of clubs spanning social science, business, humanities, arts, STEM, language, culture, and wellness. They could then sign up for those that caught their interest and join trial sessions before deciding which clubs felt right for them.

Student voice and choice are at the heart of the experience. When students become involved in something that is authentic, relevant, and meaningful to them, their learning reaches far beyond the classroom. As they lead clubs, plan activities, welcome new members, and work toward shared goals, they build initiative, resilience, curiosity, and confidence while making a positive contribution to their communities.

“Our High School clubs give students a wide range of opportunities to explore what matters to them and turn their passions, interests, and ideas into action,” shared High School Service and Sustainability Coordinator Ms. Chika Kumashiro-Wilms “Along the way, they learn to see different points of view, discover cultures and traditions other than their own, and work in partnership with others. They also discover that small, thoughtful actions can grow into something truly meaningful over time.”

Ahead of the fair, student leaders came together to reflect on their clubs’ vision, mission, activities, and partnerships. Colleagues from across ISKL joined them, offering guidance as they explored how thoughtful and responsible planning can help turn empathy into genuine care.

Following the fair, clubs welcomed returning and prospective members to fun trial sessions filled with icebreakers, photographs, stories, and plans for the year ahead.

These experiences reflect ISKL’s approach to learning, where academic learning is complemented by service learning, our School-wide Learning Results, and co-curricular opportunities that foster student agency, leadership, social responsibility, and ethical impact. Most importantly, they bring our Vision to life by helping our Panthers know themselves, care for all, and use their passions and actions to create a better world.