Admin

Clubs

AFTER SCHOOL ACADEMY

Coordinator: Ms. Portal

The After-School Academy is an academic support program for students looking for a place to work on homework, or get some extra help.  Ms. Portal coordinates the After-School Academy, which runs 4 days a week (Monday - Thursday).   Students have access to the late bus for transportation home.  ASA will take place in room 2111.

 

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE CLUB

Advisor: Mrs. Carrasquillo

ASL Club is designed to teach students in learning American Sign Language and learn about deaf culture. Students of all levels and abilities are welcome. This club meets Mondays after school until 3:00, in room 1200.

BERLIN FIRST

Advisors:  Mrs. deRito and Ms. Letendre

Do you like to work with people? Are you interested in Math, Science or Computers? Are you artistic, mechanical or have a lot of spirit? Maybe FIRST is for you! Berlin FIRST builds robots designed by the team, then competes at Regional and National Competitions. The FIRST Robotics Competition is an exciting, multinational competition that teams professionals and young people to solve an engineering design problem in an intense and competitive way. The program is a life-changing, career-molding experience—and a lot of fun. New members are always welcome, and building occurs at night or on weekends at McGee Middle School. No prior experience needed! 

BERLIN HELPING BERLIN

Advisors:  Mr. Arnold and Mrs. Meneo

The Berlin Helping Berlin Fund (BHB) is a special purpose fund to provide assistance to members of the Berlin High School community in accordance with the fund guidelines. This fund receives support through fund raisers held at the Berlin High School each year. Additional gifts from the Berlin High School community will be added only if the monies are restricted to this purpose. 

The purpose of the BHB fund is to provide assistance to Berlin High School community members who are facing a financial need and are suffering hardships beyond their control and to supplement services that may be needed.

The following are broad examples of, but not limited to, covered items/areas:

  • Utility payment/rent or mortgage assistance

  • School related activity funding when a need is provided

  • Severe illness or injury

  • Fire or other disaster

The funds will be distributed by using gift cards, bills paid directly by the Fund, donations of items, etc. No cash/checks will be distributed directly to the recipient at any time. 

See the BHB VideoBHB Logo

Bicycle Club

Advisors: Mr. Arnold and Mr. Hanna
The Bike Club is a combination of students and teachers that go on weekly bike rides. Don’t think you are too strong or too weak! Everyone is welcome and will be able to ride with the group. Road rides are every Wednesday after school. Members have a good time and get to travel to different places around Berlin (such as the New Britain Reservoir, Wadsworth Falls, Castle Craig, and others). We have also participated in the Discover Hartford Tour, the Hub on Wheels which is BikeBoston and we will conquer the 5 Boro Bike Tour through New York City again! Mountain biking destinations include Bicentennial Park, Castle Craig and Lamentation Mountain. This year there is an Urban Mountain Bike Race in Hartford! See Mr. Hanna or Mr. Arnold for a parent permission slip. If you don’t have a bike, we will provide one for you. BHS Ridin’ Redcoats …Take your training wheels off!

BHS E-SPORTS

Advisors: Mr. DelValle and Mrs. Niro

This club will allow students to learn game play while collaborating with team players to problem solve and meet objectives. This club will provide an organized and healthy environment for competitive game play.

BROADCAST CLUB

Advisor: Mr. Smith
This club will focus on live streaming of BHS sports and events throughout the school year.

Chess Club

Advisor: Ms. DiTomasso

Chess Club gives students an opportunity to play friendly games of chess against their peers in a low-stress environment, as well as learning new strategies to improve their own game. Students of all levels are welcome!

Chorus

Director: Mr. Boyle 

Treble Chorale, Men’s Choir, and Bella Voce all meet as a class. Bella Voce is by audition and/or instructor approval. The Berlin High School Madrigal Singers is an auditioned, extracurricular ensemble that performs for the community and at chorus concerts.

Class Officers

Class Office:
Class of 2023: Mrs. Dirkson and Mrs. Glass
Class of 2024: Mrs. Addamo and Mr. Sobolewski
Class of 2025: Mr. Adams and Mrs. DiMaio
Class of 2026: Mrs. Minor and Mrs. Smith

     

Coding Club

Advisor: Mr. DelValle
Coding club is open to students of all skill levels with an interest in coding! If you are brand new to coding there will be opportunities to learn a new skill. If you already have some coding experience under your belt, come to work and collaborate with others on coding challenges. We will be involved in the school wide planning of Hour of Code and depending on interest may participate in formal coding competitions. We meet Mondays after school from 2:15 to 3:15 in Room 1602. 

Color Guard / Band

Advisor: Mr. Dresko
Students may enroll in Concert Band I or Concert Band II which meet as classes during the week. In the fall, students enrolled in this class will participate as members of the Redcoat Marching Band. The Marching Band performs a customized field show at every home football game and at several marching band competitions throughout the region. Students are expected to participate in a one week summer camp before school starts and commit to one evening rehearsal per week during the fall. In addition, the band performs at the Berlin Fair and the Memorial Day Parade. The remainder of the year is devoted to concert band music. Every other year, students enrolled in a band class will have the opportunity to travel to a number of exciting destinations. Recent trips include Williamsburg, Orlando, Chicago, Boston and New Orleans. Students who play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass, guitar or drum set may audition for the Berlin High School Jazz Band. The Jazz Band meets one time per week for 2 hours outside of school. This ensemble studies and performs advanced jazz literature in concerts and competitions throughout the school year. Auditions will typically take place in September or early October. Students can see the director for detailed information regarding auditions. The Color Guard is an integral part of the Berlin High School Marching Band that enhances the color and visual excitement of all performances. In addition to performing as part of the pregame and halftime shows at every football game, we also perform during pep rallies and other events.

Comic Book Creator Club

Advisor: Mrs. Rice
The Comic Book Creators Club encourages authors, artists, and others to come together to engage in creative expression and make fun comics for all to enjoy.

Cosmetology Club

Advisor:  Ms. Vitelli
Cosmetology Club will open students' eyes to cosmetology as a career choice. Students will benefit from learning basic skills to get an idea of what this field of work is like. Students will apply new knowledge and have the opportunity for hands-on practice.

Debate Club

Club Advisor:  Mr. Cronk
This club will allow students to pick relevant topics with different viewpoints. The purpose is for students to be able to voice their opinions while using reliable evidence to support their findings. Students will group together, research and debate throughout the school year.

DECA Business Club

Advisors:  Mr. Jones and Mr. Parisi
DECA Career ClusterThe goal of the DECA Business Club is to develop competent, motivated business leaders while creating an interest and understanding of American business enterprise. Students are encouraged to participate in activities that assist in preparing them to become emerging leaders and entrepreneurs for business related careers such as marketing, communications, sales, accounting, finance, hospitality, management, etc. Leadership skills can be built upon when attending DECA leadership conferences, job shadow field trips, DECA competitive events, and participation in community outreach opportunities. We value and encourage innovative thinking, integrity, teamwork and leadership. Some opportunities available to students are officer team, operation of the school store, job shadowing, educational field trips (related to business), stock market challenge, virtual business game challenge, fundraising, etc.

Drama Club

Drama Logo

Advisor: Mr. Boyle

The BHS Music & Theatre Arts Department presents annual theatrical productions that include the Cabaret & Choral Revue, fall play, and spring musical. These are large-scale community events where students of all backgrounds can come together to showcase their many talents. We welcome students who are interested in performing, playing in the pit orchestra, or joining the build and design crew.

 

Environmentalism Club

Advisors: Mrs. Adams and Mr. Dippolino
The Environmentalism Club welcomes all students interested in helping out the environment. Events we hope to accomplish this year include recycling common household materials to design "trash art," ecology scavenger hunts, nature walks, trash pick up sessions, raising awareness about environmental issues, designing posters about how and why to recycle, and much more. New ideas are always welcomed. This club meets twice per month in Room 2118. If interested in joining, please contact Mr. Dippolino or Mrs. Adams.

First Responders Club

Advisors: Officer DePinto and Officer Lagueux
The First Responders Club is centered around discussions and practical skills exercises related to Criminal Justice, Fire Service, Emergency Medical Response and Homeland Security careers. The club offers CPR training and opportunities for field trips to first responder facilities in the area. Mock drills are planned for this coming year. This club will meet twice a month on Tuesdays, from 2:15 - 3:00.

Funky Fibers

Advisor: Mrs. Dumas
Funky Fibers, the BHS knitting and crochet club, invites students to learn a new skill, start a project, or just stop by to sit and stitch for a while. Contact Ms. Dumas with questions.

Future Teachers Club

Advisors: Ms. Day

The Future Teachers Club is organized and maintained for students who are interested in becoming teachers. Monthly meetings will focus on the process of entering the teaching profession, challenges and opportunities of teaching, teaching as an art and science, and current issues in education. Students may have the opportunity to hear guest speakers, work with practicing teachers, and build relationships with various people involved in education. This club is open to all students who wish to explore education as a career.

Gaming Club

Advisor: Mr. Sobolewski
 Gaming Club is an opportunity for students to regularly connect with their peers by playing games after school together. Playing both video games on the SMARTBoard and board games together, students meet on Fridays in Room 1103 after school. Students supply their own systems, controllers, and games, and have the chance to organize tournaments to play together. If you’d like more information, come by and see if Gaming Club is the place for you!

GSA+

Advisor: Mr. Boyle

Berlin High School's Gay-Straight Alliance club is a safe place for all students. This is a student-lead club dedicated to promoting awareness, understanding, and appreciation of diversity in gender and sexual orientations. All students are welcome at any time. Activities include the Day of Silence, attending the True Colors conference and sponsoring educational and social programs for Berlin High School students, faculty, and staff. Meetings are after school on alternating Mondays in room 2122.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY

BHS Habitat for Humanity Logo

Advisor: Mrs. Wilkosz

Habitat for Humanity aims to eliminate poverty and homelessness both locally and globally. As a member of the Berlin High School Chapter of Habitat for Humanity, you will educate others on issues of poverty, raise funds and advocate to help those in need, and build houses in areas locally, nationally, and potentially internationally. We welcome anyone who wants to help others and strengthen communities.

Improv Team

Advisor - Mr. Smith

The art of improv is truly a skill that benefits you in almost all aspects of life. 
The Improv Team, "Chomping at the BIT," is a competition level improv troupe that works to create stories out of thin air. The team consists of a small number of students all dedicated to enhancing their skills. In the past we’ve competed/performed at the Hartford Improv Fest, Boston Improv, and locally in monthly shows we host.

INTERACT

Interact Rotary Logo

School Advisors: Ms. Carrasquilo and Ms. Joslyn
Rotary Advisors: Dr. Michele Imossi

Interact is Rotary International’s service club for students. BHS Interact Club is sponsored through the New Britain-Berlin and Kensington-Berlin Rotary clubs. Interactors complete multiple community service projects throughout the year. They partner with the Salvation Army, Hungerford, and CCARC on many of their events. Interacts also fundraise to help contribute to causes they feel passionate about. In the past, they have donated to Feed My Starving Children, Guatemala Clean Water Project, Make-A-Wish, Support Our Troops, CT Humane Society, and various others. Through these efforts, Interactors develop a network of friendships and learn the importance of developing leadership skills and personal integrity, demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others, understanding the value of individual responsibility and hard work, and advancing international understanding and goodwill. Interactors also have the opportunity to attend the annual Rotary Youth Leadership Conference at Springfield College (Sophomore year), attend the World-Affairs Seminar in Wisconsin (Junior year), or participate in the Rotary Summer Foreign Exchange program. Rotary also offers scholarships to eligible Interact seniors.

Interact Club Website

Japanese Language and Culture Club

Advisor: Ms. Sznaj

In this club, students learn basic Japanese conversational phrases, learn about different aspects of modern Japanese culture, and share interests including video games, anime, and manga

Math Team

Advisors:   Mr. Forman and  Ms. Gagnon

The Math Club offers students two opportunities: service and competition. The service opportunity is through tutoring at McGee Middle School. Members tutor students to succeed in their current math class, prepare them for future classes, and show the sense of community that Berlin is famous for. Members are also able to compete on the Math Team, a team of students that participates in mathematics competitions throughout the year. These include the American Math Competition in February and the Greater New Haven Math League.

Math Tutoring Center

 Advisor: Ms. Gagnon

The BHS Math Tutoring Center is a place where students of all skill levels can seek help with mathematics. Student tutors offer assistance in most math areas. Students may attend a tutoring session during a study hall and before/after school. New tutors are recruited annually by teacher recommendation.

Medical Club

Advisor: Mrs. Wright

Are you contemplating a career in the medical field? Medical Club may be for you! We meet 1-2 times per month in Room 1403. Meeting attendance is flexible to accommodate your other commitments. In the past, we've had visits from medical professionals, gotten trained in CPR, researched careers and medical conditions, made cards for hospital staff, and explored opportunities to volunteer at local hospitals. If you would like information, please reach out to Mrs. Wright or stop by Room 1403.

Mock Trial Club

Advisor: Mr. Jones
The Mock Trial Club will promote student participation in law-related education that extends the learning experience for students with an interest in careers related to the law.

Musical

Director: Mr. Boyle

The musical takes place in early March and involves performing singers, actors, and dancers as well as technical theater and set construction. Auditions will be held in November. All are welcome and encouraged to get involved in some way!


PHOTOGRAPHY CLUB

Advisor: Mrs. Rosa
Photography Club invites students of all experience levels and encourages artistic, social, and educational growth through photography, whether for a hobby or a future career. Students will learn camera basics along with introductory editing, how to work with different subjects and clientele, and allow students to collaborate with peers in other clubs.

POC - Student Union

Advisor:  Mr. Jones
Through civic engagement, education, and discussion about social justice, our history, and our lives, the POC Student Union will create an environment dedicated to promoting growth and development for people of color (POC). This safe space will lead to an increase in contributions to our school community by POC; non-POC will gain knowledge and empathy.

POWERLIFTING CLUB

 Advisor:  Mr. Wisniewski
The BHS powerlifting team is an outlet for students who are interested in strength training. This co-ed team is open to all students regardless of previous experience. The team aims to work hard while competing amongst themselves and against other schools in a pursuit to build strength, better health, and wellbeing.

Redcoat Rundown

Advisor: Mrs. Niro

Redcoat Rundown is a student run TV show. If you are interested in joining our video production team of producers, directors, writers and newscasters, come join us!


Rho Kappa Social Studies Honor Society

Advisors: Dr. Bosso, Mrs. Marchetti, Mr. Rush, and Mrs. Wilkosz

The Berlin High School Chapter of Rho Kappa, NCSS is a social studies honor society that promotes scholarship and recognizes academic excellence in social studies among high school students; encourages interest in, understanding of, and appreciation for the social studies; and supports the interest, knowledge of, and participation in civic affairs through scheduled activities throughout the year. Admission into the BHS Chapter of Rho Kappa, NCSS is based upon several criteria; please see the advisors for more information.

Ryan T. Lee memorial Foundation Club

Advisors: Mrs. Addamo and Ms. Nelson

The Ryan T. Lee Memorial Foundation Club is for students interested in community service activities associated with the Ryan T. Lee Memorial Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to honoring the enduring spirit of a special young man by actively seeking out opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others. The Foundation is committed to identifying the effective ways to help individuals reach their goals and realize their dreams. To this end, students in the club are involved with various events including a food drive, blood drive, Holiday Giving Tree, and the Ry of LIght Challenge.

School Newspaper Club

Advisors: Ms. Jones, Mrs. Rice & Mrs.Joslyn

The school newspaper is published monthly to keep students informed of school news, sports, community news, and more. Students are encouraged to pitch article ideas and to submit articles to the newspaper at any time throughout the year. New members are always welcome. Meetings are held in the media center weekly after school.

Science Horticulture Club

Advisor: Mr. Wisniewski
Do you love biology? Do you love plants? Do you want to gain experience working in a greenhouse? If you answered "yes!" to any of these questions, then Horticulture Club is for you! In this club we are all about plants and environmental stewardship. We will regularly be involved in plantings in the greenhouse and science courtyard, so be prepared to get dirty! This club will meet in room 2129 with Mr. Wisniewski. We love new ideas and new people! Come and join us!

STUDENT ART LEAGUE

Advisor: Ms. Galasso

The BHS Student Art League is an inclusive club for all students who have a passion for art. No experience is required! This club is student-driven and fun! Come with your ideas. We do activities in-house as well as community art activities within the building.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

Advisors: Mrs. Adams and Mr. Recore

Membership is open to all and attendance is required to remain in good standing. A high standard of ethical behavior is expected of class and Student Government Officers. Members are active with the Homecoming committee in addition to representation on school-wide committees, community service, funding several programs, and class representation of pertinent issues, among other responsibilities. Student Government meets mostly after school once every week/every other week, with more frequent meetings when events are close by.

Tech Xperts

Advisor: Mrs. Niro

The Tech xPerts are a group of Independent Study students who support a technology help desk at BHS. The help desk assists students as well as staff with using various applications and improving technology skills. If you do not know how to use a program, you will independently learn the program by using given resources or by being trained by another xPert or Mrs. Niro. No previous skills are needed with the exception of wanting to work with and help others and wanting to learn more about different aspects of technology. During this independent study, you will be able to work with many programs, the Chromebooks, and the 3D printer.

Ultimate Frisbee

Advisor: Mr. Forman
Ultimate Frisbee club is a competitive co-ed club sport. The team will hold practices during the spring season to prepare for regular season and postseason games in Connecticut Ultimate League. No prior experience is necessary to join. See Mr. Forman and check for school announcements for more information regarding the Spring season and other club activities.


UNIFIED SPORTS

Coaches: Mr. Cruz and  Ms. Sznaj

Unified Sports members are always looking for partners to work with special education athletes. Open to all students throughout the school year. Practices are on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:30-4:00 in the B-gym.

UNIFIED THEATER

Advisor  Mrs. Cormier and Mr. Boyle 

Unified theater dissolves typical barriers between youth through transformative, school-based performing arts programming. In Unified Theater, young people with and without disabilities, of all backgrounds, come together as equals to put on a production. The production is entirely organized, written, and directed by the students themselves. The concept is simple: Let teens lead, let creativity rule, and put the SPOTLIGHT on Ability. The performance takes place in early spring.

UNITY TEAM - STUDENT AMBASSADORS

Advisors: Ms. Letourneau and Ms. Pach

Unity Teams are school-based teams of student leaders committed to the mission of creating a safe, welcoming culture in schools. Unity Team members and Student Ambassadors promote a positive school climate for all. Through student-designed and student-led projects, Unity Teams help schools bring attention to and deal with bullying, teasing, harassment, and the use of degrading language. Student Ambassadors welcome new students to BHS, provide tours to community members, and seize opportunities to make sure every student at BHS develops a sense of belonging.

UPBEAT PEER LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Advisor: Ms. Patel

The Upbeat Leadership Program is a school and community-based character development and leadership training program whose goal is to encourage the youth of Berlin to develop sound decision making skills and to provide opportunities for positive community involvement and service. Peer leaders attend biweekly meetings and, working under the direction of a Senior Peer Leader, meet in small groups called houses to plan and implement community service projects. A variety of speakers, programs, and activities are conducted at the meetings, which are held every other Monday from 5:30-6:30. New members can see Ms. Patel in rm 2403 

Upbeat Website

WERB Radio Station

 

Link to Stream the Radio Station

Advisor
Mr. Smith

WERB is for students interested in being a DJ, radio host, public speaker, news journalist, sports announcer, or music promoter. Our radio club members learn how to operate broadcast equipment, communicate to a LIVE radio audience, develop a weekly radio show, and follow the rules and regulations of the Federal Communications Commission 

Wilderness Club

Advisors:  Mr. Hanna and Mr. Wisniewski
The Wilderness Club will gather people from around the school to participate in various outdoor activities, potentially including but not limited to hiking, fishing, watercraft activities, bushcraft, first aid training, Leave No Trace, and sustainability work to create a lasting connection between Berlin High School, the outdoors, and the Berlin community.

Windows and Mirrors Book Club

Advisors: Mrs. Dumas and Mrs. Rice

Some stories provide the reader with a mirror so you can recognize yourself and relate to the character/story, while others provide a window for the reader to learn about different places, people, themes. Join us as we find out together what types of books we typically read and which ones we want to read more! Books are provided. Meetings will be in the Library Media Center after school. All are welcome.

World Language and Culture Club

Advisor: Mr. Lewis

The World Language and Culture Club invites students to explore the variety of languages and cultures stemming from the lived experiences of BHS students and the local community. In pursuit of this endeavor, club members offer one-on-one tutoring for students in the languages taught at the high school, host special meetings with guest speakers, share strategies for learning languages, learn about traveling and living abroad, and discover new customs and foods from various countries around the world.

WRITING CENTER

Advisors: Mrs. Glass and Ms. Portal

The Writing Center is a place where students of all skill levels can seek help with any type of writing assignment. Trained student tutors offer assistance in any stage of the writing process across all subjects. Students may attend a tutoring session during a study hall or after school. Register for an appointment by visiting the BHS website, or drop by the Center. New tutors are recruited annually by teacher recommendation.

YEARBOOK

Advisor: Ms. Dudis

The purpose of the yearbook is to compile and publish material that serves as a record of the activities of students at BHS as a tribute to the senior class. Meetings are held after school.