Clubs and Activities

  • Academic Challenge (ACES)

    ACES is a team of top students in categories such as Biology, Chemistry, Computers, English, Engineering Graphics, Math, and Physics competing against other regional schools. The competitions consist of timed multiple choice tests taken together as a group. Members tend to be teacher recommended but occasionally are student recommended.

    Teams are not to be more than 14 members.

    Sponsor: Phil Timm Phillip.Timm@d300.org

     

    Art Club

    The Art Club is a place for JHS artists to hone in on their skills, develop their techniques, collaborate with other artists like themselves, create bonds with the community through the arts, and learn how to work together through group projects that will beautify the school or community.

    Sponsor: Maddie Richmond Madeline.Richmond@d300.org 

     

    Asian American & Pacific Islander Alliance (AAPIA)

    Asian American & Pacific Islander Alliance promotes unity, culture, and heritage of Asian & Pacific Islander students. This club will be a fun and supporting space for people to make new friends and learn more about each other’s cultures.

    Sponsor: Jessica Billings Jessica.Billings@d300.org

     

    Bass Choir

    Bass Choir is an extracurricular performing ensemble comprised of Tenor and Bass voices. The ensemble meets once a week and is student directed. Music performed includes everything from Sea Shanties to Pop, Traditional to Musical Theater. No previous vocal experience required.

    Sponsor: Jennifer Parker Jennifer.Parker@d300.org

     

    Black Youth Alliance (BYA)

    The BYA is an affinity club for our African American students at Jacobs that also welcomes allies to learn more about the Black Community. The BYA educates students on current and past events that have helped shape the Black culture and community. It is an opportunity for students to come together to learn and grow through discussions, guest speakers, field trips, celebrations and education on Black Culture that is not typically taught in schools. It is an opportunity to encourage and celebrate our Black and Brown Jacobs' students.

    Sponsor: Anna Duamroh Anna.Duamroh@d300.org

     

    Book Club

    Join us to read new books, talk about great books, and make new friends! Books are selected by students from award nominee lists and focus on current high-interest YA titles.

    Sponsor: Allison Lichtenheld Allison.Lichtenheld@d300.org 

     

    Chess Club

    Chess Club provides a fun and welcoming environment where students learn about and play chess. All skill levels are welcome, including novices! We continue to add new activities to our club, providing leadership opportunities and ways to engage our community in the strategic and stimulating game of chess!

    Sponsor: Lora Springings Lora.Springings@d300.org

     

    Debate

    Harry D. Jacobs High School has a proud tradition of debate. Jacobs was a founding member of the Illinois Congressional Debaters Association which got its start over 27 years ago. The debate season runs from August to March and over 500 debaters compete at monthly tournaments. In addition to monthly tournaments, the debate team may have the opportunity to participate in a special qualifying tournament for the National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament which is held annually at various locations around the country. During the month leading up to each tournament, debate team members meet weekly to write a current event bill (topic), review the bills, research the topics, practice speaking, and discuss tournament strategy. At the tournament, team members participate in a simulated Congress chamber of approximately 20-25 people by delivering persuasive PRO or CON speeches and by asking and answering questions. The speeches and questions are scored by judges and individual and team awards are given at the end of each tournament. While informative, no words can truly describe the experience of being part of the Jacobs High School Debate Team. Please email Debate Coach Nurse Marge at Margaret.Zielinski@d300.org for more information.

    Sponsor: Marge Zielinski Margaret.Zielinski@d300.org 

     

    DJ Club

    The goal of DJ Club is to foster a community of students who are passionate about digital music production and performance. Regular student performances will be held throughout the year and throughout the community. All skill levels are welcome! 

    Sponsor: Chad Bobik Chad.Bobik@d300.org 

     

    Drama Club

    Drama Club meetings consist of theatre and improv games, learning about theatre, and hanging out with other students. It provides a safe space to be yourself, watch others perform, and even get up onstage yourself if you would like. You will learn about acting and auditioning, improvisation games, technical theatre, and anything else theatre related.

    Sponsor: Adam Stromberg Adam.Stromberg@d300.org

     

    E-Sports

    Would you like to take your gaming to the next level? We compete remotely and in-person in certain IHSA approved games against high schools all over the state and country! The games we specifically play right now are Rocket League 3v3 and Smash Bros. Ultimate 1v1s and 5v5 CREW Battles. All are welcome to try out for our limited spots on each team!

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    Eagle Buddies

    Eagles Buddies is a club for all students! This club is a great place to get involved in your school, as well as offers a safe, fun place to make friends, feel supported while supporting our community. We meet after school on Tuesdays and always have fun activities at our meetings. We even host parties!. We will also receive special training to help us make friends with students with neuro/cognitive differences. There are many ways to be a buddy and receive volunteer hours - even during school! Contact Ms. Sprigings for more information about how you can participate.

    Sponsor: Lora Sprigings Lora.Sprigings@d300.org

     

    Eagle Minds Matter

    Eagle Minds Matter is a mental health awareness club here at Jacobs! We meet bimonthly on Thursdays and host fun activities to unwind and have fun after the school day. At EMM we will also participate in fun events for NAMI, a non-profit organization that provides mental health services to those with mental illness in the US

    Sponsor: Diana Winton Diana.Winton@d300.org 

    Sponsor: Danielle Herrndobler Danielle.Herrndobler@d300.org 

     

    FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes)

    FCA is a student-led faith organization where athletes join together to talk about carrying out their faith in their everyday life and in their sports and activities. Athletes are encouraged to join, but we are open to anyone regardless of whether you play a sport or not.

    For more information contact the activity directors Molly Gomberg at Molly.Gomberg@d300.org or Katie O’Brien at Kathryn.Obrien@d300.org.

    French Club

    French Club is a service organization that celebrates and shows appreciation for the French language and culture through planned social events and community service projects.

    Sponsor: Betsy Schlimgen Betsy.Schlimgen@d300.org 

     

    Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA)

    The GSA is an alliance club that welcomes LGBTQ+ students and allies to network, learn together, and support one another. The GSA is a student-run club that promotes a positive environment characterized by inclusivity, belonging, and a goal of better understanding ourselves, each other, and the world in which we live. 

    Sponsor: Sydney Osborn Sydney.Osborn@d300.org

     

    Graphic Design Club

    Members will discover and express their personal voice by designing posters, logos, and graphics. Through small projects, club members will explore essential topics such as color theory, typography, and design fundamentals, as well as specific areas like the logo creation process.

    Sponsor: Brad Unterberger Bradley.Unterberger@d300.org 

     

    Green Eagles

    We strive to make the world a greener, more eco-friendly, and eco-conscious place, starting with our school. Our mission is to spread green ideas and practices not only to our school, but to the surrounding community. 

    Sponsor: Caitlin Brown Caitlin.Brown@d300.org 

    Sponsor: Michael Vroman Michael.Vroman@d300.org

    Sponsor: Lora Sprigings Lora.Sprigings@d300.org

     

    Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA)

    HOSA is an international student organization that is recognized by the US Department of Education. HOSA is meant to promote career opportunities in the healthcare industry and to enhance the idea of quality health care to students around the country. HOSA also holds state-wide competitions with other schools where students can compete with others that have similar interests.

    Sponsor: Jackie Lotzer Jaclyn.Lotzer@d300.org 

     

    Hispanic Youth Alliance

    The purpose of this club is to embrace and to have Harry D. Jacobs High School students relate to Hispanic and Latino culture. We do this by teaching them about it through presentations, group activities, and club events. Students will be able to represent/relate to Latino and Hispanic culture by joining this club, while always having a good time with friends! 

    Sponsor: Elisa Carlos Elisa.Carlos@d300.org 

    Sponsor: Patty Ruiz Patricia.Ruiz@d300.org 

     

    Interact

    Interact is a Rotary sponsored club that helps students get more involved with the community. It allows students to get community service hours by participating in events sponsored by Interact within the community. Club meets monthly and interested members can reach out to the club sponsor Mr. Davis with questions

    Sponsor: Jeff Davis Jeffery.Davis@d300.org

     

    Investment Club

    The JHS Investment Club is designed to teach the basics of how the stock market operates. We discuss current economic conditions and how the stock market reacts to those conditions. The board of directors will put a mini lesson together (5-10 minutes) followed by a competitive yet fun game on such lessons with the winning team usually winning candy!

    Sponsor: Troy Burgh Truy.Burgh@d300.org

     

    J Step Team

    J-Step is a dance squad, where students meet to learn culturally acceptable step-style dancing created out of the African American culture, cheering, modern dance, and other styles of dance. The purpose of J-Step is to promote team building and exercise through dance and step for the purpose of increasing and promoting school spirit at sporting events.

    Sponsor: Danielle Herrndobler Danielle.Herrndobler@d300.org

     

    K-Pop Club

    The purpose of this club is to bring together students with similar interests in this music genre. We will meet and play games, distribute candy, and do a lot of dancing. We hope to be able to put on a dance performance for the school at an assembly at a talent show, or both.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    Key Club

    KEY CLUB is the oldest service organization in the country. It helps to establish friendships and opportunities to give back to society by volunteering. We work on many service projects during the school year. We end the year by participating in a packing event at Feed My Starving Children in Schaumburg. Key Club values are: leadership, character building, caring, and inclusiveness.

    Interest in Key Club email our advisor Nurse Marge: margaret.zielinski@d300.org.

    Sponsor: Marge Zielinski Margaret.Zielinkski@d300.org

     

    Marching Band

    The Golden Eagle Marching Band is a competitive performance ensemble that performs at all home football games, local parades, and 4-5 competitions throughout the fall season. The band has won over 75 awards since becoming competitive in 2011. The band is open to any student musicians who are also enrolled in a curricular ensemble within the Jacobs Music Department with the exception of piano players and color guard members.

    Sponsor: Anthony Gnutek Anthony.Gnutek@d300.org

     

    Mock Trial

    The goal of the Mock Trial team is to prepare for and compete in Mock Trial competitions. Students act as witnesses and attorneys and compete against other teams and are judged on performance.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    Model United Nations (Model UN)

    Model United Nations (Model UN) is an educational simulation where students role-play as delegates representing different countries in various committees of the United Nations. Through debate, negotiation, and resolution drafting, participants address global issues such as climate change, human rights, and international conflicts. Model UN fosters skills in research, public speaking, diplomacy, and critical thinking while promoting cross-cultural understanding and awareness of international affairs.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    Muslim Student Alliance

    MSA is a community of Muslims and their allies. We meet at least once a month after school to embrace our heritage with games, activities, and friendships. Anyone is welcome to join to learn more about and celebrate Muslim cultures.

    For more information contact the activity directors Molly Gomberg at Molly.Gomberg@d300.org or Katie O’Brien at Kathryn.Obrien@d300.org.

     

    National Honors Society

    National Honors Society Recognizes students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Potential members are selected for membership in NHS as sophomores or juniors so that they are members during junior and/or senior years. Members must maintain high academic standards, character, leadership, and participate in community service. Students are invited to prove their candidacy to join NHS based on their GPA.

    Sponsor: Jeff Davis Jeffery.Davis@d300.org 

    Sponsor: Lexi Policht Alexia.Policht@d300.org

     

    Peer Mediation

    Peer Mediation is a method of restorative practices that promotes solving problems in a peaceful manner led by peers. Peer Mediation is led by student leaders trained in restorative practices to help their peers and staff solve conflicts. Peer Mediation allows for both sides of a conflict to respectfully discuss their concerns, come up with a reasonable solution and agreement. Peer Mediation is open to any student interested in learning more about conflict resolution and restorative practices. 

    Sponsor: Rebecca Oller Rebecca.Oller@d300.org 

     

    Photography Club

    Members participate in photo challenges and photo shoots, share out images they've taken between meetings, and find techniques or photographers they like, and participate in discussions. Guest professional photographers from various fields will come in as guest speakers to share their experiences and talk with members. 

    Sponsor: Maddie Richmond Madeline.Richmond@d300.org 

     

    Puzzle Club

    A place where you can socialize, unwind, and exercise your brain by doing various puzzles like jigsaw puzzles, riddles, or mechanical puzzles with others.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    SASA

    SASA allows students to socialize and support each other while meeting to celebrate south Asian holidays and events.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    Shirley Tempos

    Shirley Tempos is an all Treble Voice after-school Acapella choir. We believe that music brings people together, no matter their grade or singing experience. Our choir is all about embracing the joy of singing and exploring different genres of music. Everything from pop to jazz we love it all! Each rehearsal is filled with laughter, friendship, and the excitement of harmonizing together. No experience is needed.

    Sponsor: TBD

     

    STEM Club

    The STEM Club is a dynamic and innovative organization dedicated to fostering a deep appreciation and passion for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). In this club, a vibrant community of students and educators come together to explore, learn, collaborate, create, and engage in exciting STEM-related activities and real-world applications.

    Sponsor: Fernando Medina Fernando.Medina@d300.org

     

    Scholastic Bowl

    IHSA academic activity focused on competition between conference schools. Each match is similar to a game of trivia. Competitors must buzz in and the first buzzer earns the right to attempt an answer to the trivia question. Questions are on school subject matter as well as sports and entertainment.

    Sponsor: Phil Timm Phillip.Timm@d300.org

     

    Spanish Club

    Spanish Club is a club that celebrates the culture of Spanish speaking countries. Some of our favorite events include participating in Homecoming, celebrating El Día de los Muertos, making Christmas cards and Valentines, volunteering at Feed My Starving Children, planning World Language Week activities, and a possible trip to a local Mexican restaurant. You do NOT need to speak Spanish to join Spanish Club!

    Sponsor: Sarah Kapitan Sarah.Kapitan@d300.org 

     

    Student Council

    We promote student involvement and school spirit by creating well rounded individuals through teamwork and service to the community. We coordinate Homecoming week, Adopt-A-Family, and HDJ Royalty, along with many other activities. Aside from specific events, we advocate leadership and excellence not only in school, but through the lives we lead.

    Sponsor Big Council: Bridget Drzik Bridget.Drzik@d300.org

    Sponsor Big Council: Michele Sanabria Michele.Sanabria@d300.org

    Sponsor Freshmen Class: Jenna Elsouso Jenna.Elsouso@d300.org 

    Sponsor Sophomore Class: Sam Bartels Samantha.Bartels@d300.org 

    Sponsor Junior Class: Kelly Zoellner Kelly.Zoellner@d300.org 

    Sponsor Junior Class: Brittany Swanson Brittany.Swanson@d300.org

    Sponsor Senior Class: Marge Zielinski Margaret.Zielinski@d300.org 

     

    Tri-M Music Honor Society

    Tri-M is designed to recognize students for their academic and musical achievements, reward them for their accomplishments and service activities, and to inspire other students to excel at music and leadership.

    Sponsor: Terry Foster Terry.Foster@d300.org

     

    Volleyball Club

    A place for any level of experience to play volleyball and grow the interest in a boys volleyball team here at Jacobs.

    Sponsor: Open Position

     

    Women’s Empowerment Club

    Women's Empowerment Club is a safe space for any student here at Jacobs. Our main goal is to empower, educate, and advocate for women's rights at Jacobs. We will meet bi-weekly and our meetings will normally consist of a short lesson and a fun activity.

    Sponsor: Anna Duamroh Anna.Duamroh@d300.org

     

    Yearbook Club

    Yearbook Club is comprised of yearbook editors and contributing photographers. To become an editor, a student needs to take the Yearbook Publications class.

    Sponsor: Tiffany Goodman Tiffany.Goodman@d300.org