The Art Club gives students the opportunity to develop their artistic talents as well as to discuss and critique artwork with their peers. Regular meetings provide studio time for students to work on group or independent projects and for discussions on artwork. Students may work in a variety of mediums. Meetings consist of creating artwork that students would not normally have a chance to make in art class, brainstorming for fundraisers, and creating elements showing our school spirit and pride, but mostly just having fun creating art. The club is open to all students.

The Chess Club provides an opportunity for students to engage in friendly competition while, at the same time, learning the tactics, strategies, and positional nuances of the game. All skill levels are welcome, including beginners who have never touched a chess piece. Students also learn about the game's rich history and famous grandmasters, reviewing their games to gain insight into their brilliance at the board. Through regular chess playing, students hone their ability to concentrate, exercise patience, and plan ahead, while enjoying the greatest game on Earth.

The Dance Club performs at school based events, such as pep rallies and award shows. Additionally, the dance club competes in various styles such as jazz, lyrical, hip hop and pom all over the tri-state area as well as at the national level in Orlando, Florida. *Sports physical/clearance is necessary for participation. Dancers must commit to the practice schedule of 2-3 days a week and attend each competition January through the first week of March.

GSA hopes to provide insightful information regarding the hardships faced by those students marginalized due to their sexuality and to help alleviate these struggles faced daily by many students in our school. We aim to spread awareness, empower members, and encourage advocates.

The aim of la Société Honoraire de Français is to foster interest in the study of French culture, to stimulate academic excellence, to celebrate and to further an understanding of francophone culture and civilization, to promote global harmony, and to reward efforts toward furthering solidarity in the French-speaking world. Throughout each year, members and potential members volunteer their service for tutoring, events, and fundraisers related to the area of world languages, including the annual International Dinner for West Milford senior citizens, Trick-or-Treat for UNICEF, and the World Cup soccer game.

In order to be invited as a potential member into the French Honor Society, students must complete 3 years of French study in the high school, maintain an average of a 3.6 in French and maintain a general GPA of 3.0. Members in this organization are initiated and receive this prestigious accolade at the culminating induction ceremony in May. Students are required to attend meetings and to achieve 10 service hours.

The German Honor Society seeks to promote the appreciation of the language, the culture and further the study of German. The current world language honor societies have created a unified induction ceremony, host an international dinner for local senior citizens, host booths at Highlander Day, participate in a “World Cup” soccer game, tutor peers in the target languages and celebrate multicultural events such as Cultural Exchange Day.

Inductees must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and a GPA of 3.5 or higher in the target language. Students are eligible for induction after 3 years of language study. The induction ceremony takes place in the spring each year. All members are required to attend all major events and participate in fundraisers.

The Highland Jazz vocal ensemble is a select performance group comprised of members of the high school choirs who have passed a vocal audition process. The group performs high level vocal jazz literature and performs at concerts, festivals and competitions. Attendance is mandatory for all practices and events.

The West Milford History club is for all 9-12 students who love history and want to share these interests with other like-minded students! The club is a fun and interactive way to further education through discussions, competitions like National History Day, the History Bowl, and the History Bee, documentaries, field trips, and much more!

The Indoor Color Guard entertains and participates in various local and national competitions. This activity combines spinning flags, rifles, and sabers combined with acting, dancing, and precision style routines to recorded music. They perform in high school gymnasiums and university arenas throughout the competitive season from January through April. The Guard offers students the ability to work as a team in the pursuit of excellence. This is a co-ed activity. Students are encouraged to participate in the Marching Band Color Guard for training but this is not a requirement. Clinics are held in late October for the upcoming season. Contact Mr. Shaver for additional information at Peter.Shaver@wmtps.org.

Membership in good standing, as determined by Advisor, is based on excellent attendance at rehearsals and all performances. This will allow student to attend and receive honors at the Band Banquet in May. *Sports physical/clearance is necessary for participation.

The Indoor Percussion program is an indoor marching percussion ensemble that travels, performs and competes during the winter months each year. The ensemble consists of student musicians from grades 9-12, who are members of the Marching Band and audition for the group. Based upon instrumental needs, members of the student body can request to audition for the ensemble.

The ensemble provides instruction and performance opportunities for young performers in the areas of marching percussion, piano, bass guitar, guitar, drum set, concert "pit" percussion, and movement/choreography. The unit has been in existence since 1995 and travels within New Jersey, Connecticut, New York and Pennsylvania.

Students attend rehearsals 3 times a week and participate in 8-10 competitions. All students are also required to participate in the fundraising event.

Interact is a Rotary-sponsored service club that gives students the opportunity to participate in fun and meaningful service projects. Our motto is “service above self.” Through service activities, students learn the importance of developing leadership skills and personal integrity, demonstrating helpfulness and respect for others, and advancing international understanding and goodwill.

Members of the club help to develop and carry out a wide variety of service projects. Raising money for worthwhile causes, working within the school, and working directly with people in the community are a few ways Rotary Interact members are involved. Members of the club also assist the Rotary Club of West Milford with various local community projects.

There are no special requirements for membership other than willingness to help others and a desire to make our community a better place in which to live. Remember, you can't do everything, but you can do something! Meetings are held monthly.

The Italian Honor Society seeks to promote the appreciation of the Italian language and the culture and to further the study of Italian. The current world language honor societies have created a unified induction ceremony, host an annual international dinner for local senior citizens, organize charity events, host booths at Highlander Day, participate in a “World Cup” soccer game, tutor peers in the target languages and celebrate multicultural events such as Cultural Exchange Day. Inductees must have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 and a GPA of 3.5 or higher in the target language. Students are eligible for induction after 3 years of language study. The induction ceremony takes place in the spring each year.

The jazz ensemble is an instrumental performance group that studies and performs historical and contemporary jazz music. The group participates in festivals and competitions throughout the state of New Jersey while also hosting one of the biggest high school jazz festivals in Northern New Jersey. Students will have the opportunity to experience this great American music at its highest level.

Acceptance into this program is audition based, enrollment in concert band courses are not required.

The Marching Band provides entertainment at varsity football games, parades and marching band competitions. The 100+ member group is open to those students who are enrolled in Concert Band, Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble. Students not in those classes may join as part of the Color Guard. The Highlander Marching Band is one of the most successful bands in the Eastern United States, competing at the national level as well as state competitions. The band performs in many exciting venues, such as New York City; London, England; Edinburgh, Scotland; Toronto, Canada; and Orlando, Florida.

Click here to visit the Highlander Band Website.

Participation at all practices and performances is mandatory. Fundraising is encouraged to offset the cost of travel. *Sports physical/clearance is necessary for participation.

The Marching Band Color Guard provides the color, energy, and visual excitement at all football games, parades, and competitions throughout the year with the Band. The Guard is open to all eighth grade and high school students and is a co-ed activity. Instructional Clinics are held in May for the Marching Band season of the following fall. Rehearsals will be held during the summer months and throughout the fall in conjunction with the Marching Band. Contact Mr. Shaver for additional information at Peter.Shaver@wmtps.org

Membership in good standing, as determined by Advisor, is based on excellent attendance at rehearsals and performances. This will allow students to attend and receive honors at the Band Banquet in May. *Sports physical/clearance is necessary for participation.

The Model Congress club is designed for students that are interested in the U.S. government and wish to participate in debate among their peers. The club allows students to learn proper procedure to simulate what happens in the actual United States Congress. Students will meet about once per month throughout the school year to hone debate skills and will participate in one or two field trips to compete with students from other schools. Students do not need strong public speaking or research skills to enter the club, but should be ready to attend regular meetings to develop those skills in order to prepare for competition.

Model United Nations (MUN) is an academic simulation of the United Nations. Members attend conferences and compete by acting as representatives of different countries or organizations and acting as historical or fictional figures. As delegates, they will learn to effectively debate positions through speeches and resolutions as they simultaneously consider a wide range of contentious topics with other representatives. Model United Nations offers students opportunities to not only learn about other nations but also to understand and discuss relevant global conflicts concerning international law, human rights, security, and more. A student can apply to become a member in late September; after joining, they will attend biweekly meetings aimed at refining public speaking skills and preparing the team for conferences.

The Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society is an organization that rewards its members for their achievements in mathematics. Throughout the year, there are meetings where the students discuss mathematical topics and/or compete in math contests. It is comprised of high school students in grades 9-12, at the school where their permanent record resides, who have completed the equivalent of two years of college preparatory mathematics and in addition have completed or are enrolled in a third year of college preparatory mathematics are eligible for membership, providing their mathematical work was done with distinction. On the 4 point grading scale, this shall mean at least a 3.3 Math grade point average. Students are required to attend monthly meetingsand the induction ceremony in May.

The WM School Musical is a program that allows students to participate in a full-scale musical production. Students can hold a variety of positions from actors, singers and dancers to stage crew, artists, builders, painters, musicians, graphic design, lighting and sound technicians, costuming and prop creation. The Musical offers students with many varied interests a unique opportunity to be involved in a large team working towards a common goal. All who wish to participate are welcome. Participation for rehearsals and fundraising is mandatory

The National Art Honor Society (NAHS) is designed specifically for high school students in grades 10-12. The National Art Education Association began the National Art Honor Society program to inspire and recognize students who have shown an outstanding ability and interest in the visual arts. Our West Milford Chapter of NAHS strives to aid members in attaining the highest standards in art scholarship, character, and service, and to bring art education to the attention of the school and community.

To be accepted as a member, students must be nominated by their teacher after their first full year of art and maintain a B+ or better grade average. Members are required to complete at least eight hours of community service per year.

The National Honor Society strives to recognize the total student—one who excels in all of these areas. The standards used for selection are as follows: Scholarship (3.5 cumulative average) Leadership, Service, and Character (as demonstrated by activities and teacher evaluations.) Membership, however, is more than an honor. It incurs a responsibility and an obligation to demonstrate these outstanding qualities.

Membership also carries a responsibility to the chapter. Students accepted to the West Milford Chapter of the National Honor Society are expected to complete a service project, complete volunteer hours, be a peer tutor, and serve as exemplars of student conduct

The Highland Echo is open to students of all grade levels and abilities for a variety of challenging roles which bring the newsroom to life! Staff writers develop the theme for the issue and search the school community for topics in which they, and their fellow students, are interested. Publishing approximately four print and seven online editions, ranging from 8 – 16 pages, during the school year, The Highland Echo covers events and people in the news, as well as student and faculty opinion, presents viewpoint and investigative articles, reports on the sports scene, and highlights culture and student achievement. Students learn management techniques and responsibility as editors and develop their writing style and skills while reporting on their own interests.

Students are required to attend weekly meetings and/or complete their assignments independently.

Peers As Leaders is a select group of students chosen to represent the high school based on their character, integrity, and leadership qualities. The group is composed of upperclassmen that act as role models for the student body and give peer-assistance to freshman and transfer students. Students in this club are dedicated to community service and are the student representatives at various school functions. PALS are seen as leaders in their school and community. Activities that PALS are involved in include: leading freshman transition groups, assisting with summer freshman orientation, helping new students acclimate to the high school, and volunteering for community service projects and school-run events. PALS also receive leadership and mediation training. The selection process to become a PAL includes a written application, teacher recommendations and an interview. Once a PAL, students must volunteer for 10 hours of community service and be involved in at least 5 school functions. Mandatory summer training program in August includes a 2 day training session the week before school starts.

The Robotics Club provides opportunities for students to apply the basics of mechanics, electronics, and computer programming to design and build robots that explore and react to their environment. Students are currently using LEGO MINDSTORM NXT 2.0 System, Drag and Drop programming. Students are encouraged to use their own creativity to design their robots as well as develop challenges that engage both individual and group activity

The Science League was started 1962 by Dr. Mal Sturchio, the League offers competitions in biology, chemistry, physics, earth science, and environmental science for all beginning students. There are also competitions for AP levels in chemistry, biology, and physics. The topics, rules, and fees of the League as well as registration can be found at the web address of www.enter.net/~njscil.

Students work with science teacher and take test to rank our school against science students in other districts.

The Science National Honor Society is an organization whose purpose is to encourage participation in and the recognition of scientific and intellectual thought, advance students’ knowledge of classical and modern science, and participate in community service that encourages a dedication to the pursuit of scientific knowledge that benefits all of mankind.

Students elected to the organization are juniors or seniors that have a 3.0 average overall and a 3.5 average in science classes. In addition, they must be enrolled in at least one honors or upper level science class during or prior to eleventh grade and must be enrolled in at least one second year honors or upper level science class during or prior to twelfth grade. Members must maintain a 3.0 average overall and a 3.5 average in science courses. Members must attend Chapter lectures annually and participate in service projects that aid the civic community with its comprehension of science.

Sources of Strength (SOS) is a mental health wellness project that utilizes the power of peer social networks to change unhealthy norms and culture to ultimately prevent suicide, bullying, violence and substance abuse. The goal of the group is to create a network and culture of connectedness, resilience and strength that will result in fewer students arriving at the point of feeling suicidal. SOS’s focus is harnessing the creativity of its peer leaders as they spread messages with their faces, their voices and their creativity in using video, internet, posters, music and their stories of strength to create a network and culture of connectedness, bringing together both peer leaders and supportive adults to spread messages of Hope, Help and Strength that can create positive change. Open to all grade levels. It is presently on SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices, the nation’s highest level of prevention programs

The purpose of the Spanish Honor Society is to recognize high achievement in Spanish for those students that have completed at least two years of Spanish at West Milford High School. We also strive to promote diversity and inspire students to continue studying Spanish.

Student must obtain at least a B- (80) every marking period of Spanish I, II, and III. Students will be invited to participate during their junior or senior year (when they take Level 4H). Their general average (all classes) must also be of at least a B- (80). Students will complete 10 service hours (for SHS only) that include tutoring, International Dinner for senior citizens, Highlander Day and Induction Ceremony for SHS.

Students work on the production of the school musical and are trained in all the lighting and sound needs for our school functions. They provide a service to our school community as well as outside groups that rent our auditorium. Students learn a variety of skills that are applicable to future job possibilities. Once proficient, students have the opportunity to work as a technician for the school and earn income. This club offers unique leadership opportunities. All members must attend major events.

Student Council is made up of five elected students that represent the other students of WMHS on an Executive Council. Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors are eligible to run for the offices of President, Vice President, Treasurer, Secretary, and Communications Director. While the Student Council is the only school wide student government organization, the members often work with the individual class officials on projects to benefit the school. The many activities Student Council organizes and sponsors include Pep Rallies, Spirit Weeks, Highlander Day, food drives, and the Senior Choice Awards. The Student Council also works with the school and district wide administrators to enhance the overall school environment. This includes serving as the WMHS student representative at the West Milford Board of Education meetings.

To become a member of the Student Council Executive Council, students must deliver a speech; a recording of which is viewed during all English classes. Each WMHS student is then given a chance to cast their vote for each individual position.

The Green Team is a service organization that focuses on educating students in regards to sustainability and conservation. The Green Team promotes reusing, reducing and recycling in our school. We are also involved in community outreach, which includes hands on projects.

Members must participate in fundraising and volunteer activities, such as maintaining the West Milford High School Pizza Garden

The Guild: Strategy and Gaming Club, also known as the Guild, is a club that allows its members to participate in friendly games. These games such as Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons and Dragons help students to build strategy, teamwork, imagination, and concentration, and above all, just have fun. There are weekly regular meetings, and the group occasionally also meets informally when they feel like it. This is a club for everyone and is a group for the student who hasn't found his/her place yet.

The Varsity Club inspires general interest in all athletics; it promotes greater participation in sports and attendance at athletic events, helps increase school spirit and enthusiasm, and recognizes our overall sportsmanship. The club helps advertise and celebrate our athlete’s accomplishments. The Varsity club is responsible for creating posters for numerous athletic events and has teamed up with the student run “Herd” to help promote our Highlander Pride.

To be a member of the West Milford Varsity Club, a student must be a varsity letter winner. Members must participate in fundraising events. Additionally, members must represent the school and community with the utmost respect and pride

The Weight Lifting and Conditioning Club promotes physical fitness and is designed for its members to be actively engaged in physical activity after school while they reach their fitness goals and maximize their fitness potential. This club is designed for both beginner and experienced individuals, both male and female. Our Weightlifting and Conditioning Club is a judgment free zone where all the participants encourage and support each other. Students will be in an environment that promotes social interaction and goal setting, in which they will work towards obtaining or maintaining a positive and healthy body image. Students will identify their weaknesses and set individual goals that they will work on throughout this club by using a fitness log to demonstrate their own growth.

Students are encouraged to attend all meetings, events, and any fundraising or recruitment activities. All safety protocols and weight room etiquette must be followed. *Sports physical/clearance is necessary for participation.

Onyx is the name of the yearbook. The yearbook brings students from all grade levels 9-12 together to record events throughout the school year in a single year-end publication. Memories are captured through photography and the written word recording all events, clubs, sports, performing arts, school portraits and more. Layout and design elements are taught that give students an opportunity to learn more about publishing. Editor positions and scholarship opportunities are available each year.

Students are expected to attend weekly Wednesday meetings to create the publication. Monthly Editor Meetings to review yearbook progress will be required on the first Wednesday of each month. An entire year commitment with a great attitude and leadership ability will be required to be eligible to receive the Onyx Senior Member Scholarship offered each year in May