During the 2025-2026 school year, Plant High School students explored a variety of interests by creating clubs for others to join. With over 50 student-run clubs, these organizations provide opportunities for students to get involved and connect across campus.
Perhaps one of Plant High School’s more prominent clubs is Gold Rush. Gold Rush is the school’s spirit club, responsible for building school pride and creating a positive environment by attending sports games and pep rallies. This year, Gold Rush is sponsored by government teacher Jake Pedrero and led by Melina Torres (12).
“This club is easy to be a part of and the only requirement is to show up and have fun whether it’s a game or a theatre production,” Haley Caudullo (11), a member of the club’s communication board, said.
Through its events that encourage student involvement, Gold Rush provides a way to engage in school activities that support Plant High School.
A relatively new club at Plant is the Panther Pickleball Club. In 2025, Ryan Pavliga (11) created the club to give members of all skill levels a chance to compete and enjoy their time together.
“This club is unique because we have monthly events where 120 members on all levels can participate and play with each other,” Pavliga said. “Students should join our club because it is a ton of fun and you need no experience to become a member and play with us.”
Another board member, Ella Graham (11), was also present at the time of the club’s creation. She has influenced a variety of policies and choices the club currently runs on.
“Panther Pickleball has many different events as other clubs barely participate in any outside of school events,” Graham said. “It gives people the opportunity to meet others in a fun uplifting environment.”
Plant’s Big and Little program is another new addition to the school this year. Created in 2025, the club’s aim is to pair upperclassmen with freshmen to provide mentorship and guidance through their school year. The transition to high school is known to be stressful, but Big and Little program is one way to ease the tensions.
“Students should join the club because it connects you with many new students you never would have connected with before,” Madeline Davidson (12), Head of Relations, said. “I think it’s better compared to other clubs because it has such a variety of students and so many.”
The club is led by Madden Moore (12), who coordinates events and activities that strengthen the connections between the “Bigs” and “Littles.” The club provides opportunities for upperclassmen to guide younger students while creating a supportive and welcoming environment.
A similar program is the Special Olympics Club sponsored by teacher Tiffany Lee. Members of the club teach special-need athletes about different sports both on and off campus.
“In Special Olympics, every Monday we meet after school to practice whichever sport is in season and eventually, we will have a tournament for that sport,” Mallory Knight (11) said.
Knight, who has been a member of the club since her freshman year, explains the purpose of the club:
“This club’s purpose is to include everyone and give them a chance for the athletes to compete. I think everyone should come and try it out!”
In the end, Plant High School offers a variety of ways for a student to get involved. These organizations provide opportunities to explore interests and connect with peers across campus, giving students multiple ways to participate in school life.