Park has always been big on community. From communities you find in classrooms, to the opportunities where individuals can explore passions and collaborate with each other through clubs. With over 25 clubs offered, they help students form connections over shared interests. However, despite the large number of clubs available, the question remains whether these clubs foster belonging for all students and if they truly represent our school’s diversity. The word diversity carries a different meaning for every person, and it is important to acknowledge that oftentimes when we hear the word, it is tailored towards white people, as in “under whose perspective is this environment diverse.” Diversity in school clubs is not just about representation but rather the opportunity for growth.

Creating spaces where students feel comfortable expressing themselves is very important because it allows people to learn from other perspectives. The significance of that is it can help you notice your own blind spots and see flaws in systems that impact others differently than you. With over half of our student body identifying as people of color, our clubs should naturally reflect this. Feeling passionate about something in a club can bring feelings of vulnerability, and oftentimes students engage more in clubs they choose to be a part of than classes they are required to take. The benefit of this is that clubs bring together a community of committed people who come from different cultural backgrounds, which promotes the goal of finding your place and belonging. Without broader representation, clubs risk becoming spaces that unintentionally harm or exclude.

Being a student in multiple clubs, I feel that creating a culture of belonging is important because it allows for spaces where every student feels comfortable with one another. During my time at Park, I have noticed how certain clubs often attract similar groups of people. When various viewpoints aren’t present, stereotypes are often reinforced about groups being associated with particular sports or activities. This can also be a result of systemic racism. Although our school works hard to create belonging for all students, the impact of the racism present in schools long ago, still leaves an impact today.

The issue of representation in schools is not one that is specific to Park and there is likely no one solution. In this complex situation, it may appear very hard to promote equity and inclusion effectively without forcing people into or out of certain clubs. Good advisors or coaches play a key role in making sure clubs remain open, welcoming and mindful of all students’ identities. Park works hard to ensure this through the core values listed in our 2025-2030 Strategic Plan. They use core values such as “authentic community engagement” and “racial consciousness and cultural competence” to work towards their mission of, “Where each student is seen, valued, and inspired to reach their full academic potential as they become their best selves as racially conscious, globally minded contributors to society.” Park uses these core values outlined in their plan to lead clubs.

More can always be done to ensure all students find a community they feel they belong in, are valued in and are interested in. By recognizing barriers and taking the right steps to remove or address them, clubs can better reflect our community. After all, communities made in clubs don’t just benefit individual students; they strengthen our entire school.