Stories to be told
By Emma Hollenbeck
COVINGTON TWP, Pa., Oct. 11, 2024 – There are a variety of clubs at North Pocono High School for students to participate in, such as Science Olympiad or Buddies Club. These clubs are more popular at the high school; therefore, many members have joined. Out of all these activities, very few are known for letting students express their creativity. Many high schoolers have kept their writing talents hidden, but not for long! A new club is beginning that is all about creating and sharing stories.
The Creative Writing Club will allow students to let their skills shine through and meet new people with the same interests as them. Ms. Wolff, the advisor, is looking forward to the club’s first year. She claims that the club will “provide a creative space for students from all backgrounds.” High school students all have different interests and personalities, and those who have a creative side can join a group of people with a similar mindset. Even students who are not creative thinkers can join the club to learn new skills. Ms. Wolff believes that, “all members want to improve their writing. Students will also have the opportunity to publish their works.” Club members can also participate in contests where the best project wins a prize of money. Overall, Ms. Wolff is proud to be the club advisor and cannot wait to see what everyone will create this year.
Vice president Caitlyn Gallacher helped bring the Creative Writing Club to life and agreed to take on a big role. “A year ago, my close friend Madison came to me with the idea for this club. Naturally, I was very interested in it, so I agreed to help out with the founding of it. We have both always shared an interest in writing, and have even collaborated on a few works together.” Caitlyn and Madison’s shared interest led to the creation of this new club, where many students can share their ideas and stories with one another. Madison Mead has a big role as well because she is club president and came up with the idea in the first place. Caitlyn believes that writing is important for everyday life, as it helps people write speeches, essays, and even formal emails. Since nonfiction writing is more present in schools, Caitlyn is looking forward to writing works of fiction. “Over the years I have written a variety of poems, short stories, and novels focusing on a variety of genres and topics, although my personal favorite is fantasy fiction novels.” She claims. One of Caitlyn’s biggest goals is to publish her works before she graduates high school.
Claire Phillips, one of the social media coordinators, joined the club to follow a passion. Her interest in writing began at a young age, and she continues to pursue this hobby today. “I’ve always loved to write and thought it was such a fun and good way to be able to express myself. I would sit in class when I was younger and just write stories,” Claire says. She believes that students could join the Creative Writing Club to learn more about English and Literature subjects. Teachers and other students can view people in certain ways based on essays they have written, and the club can help a student show more personality in their writing. Even though Claire had written short stories as a kid, she hopes to create bigger projects. She claims, “I have not yet written anything of my own, but I do hope to accomplish something like this.” Other students in the club can strive to reach their own goals.
Students who signed up for this club are excited to be involved in a creative environment. There should be more creative opportunities in high schools, and this club is serving that exact purpose. Writers will be able to share their work and improve, which can even lead to students pursuing careers in the English field. A simple idea can go a long way!