Clubs, sports help during atypical year

Hewlett-Woodmere School District began winter break after school on Dec. 18. Students and faculty eagerly awaited their well-deserved rest from virtual learning, but for Hewlett High School students, there was much to look forward to upon their return to school on Jan. 4. 

Hewlett High students are slowly recognizing their school environment as what they once knew. With clubs, sports and senior specific activities resurfacing, students are able to feel a slight form of normalcy in these unprecedented times. 

All clubs meet on Google Meet, ensuring that students who have chosen virtual or in-person learning are included. New York State Science Honor Society, Modern Music Masters Honor Society, and PE Leaders are just a few clubs that have been meeting virtually.

All three clubs have been brainstorming ways to participate in community outreach and truly unite the students with the greater Hewlett-Woodmere family. Whether that is by tutoring younger students in science, livestreaming students’ musical performances to senior centers, or collecting sports items for donation, our clubs remain dedicated to finding a way to connect with one another. 

Undoubtedly, our student athletes have long awaited the resurgence of school sports. Although high risk sports – basketball, volleyball, competitive cheerleading, and wrestling – are on hold, students are able to participate in girls and boys winter track and field, boys swimming and diving, girls and boys fencing, and girls and boys bowling. All athletes had to pre-register their intent to take part in a sport on the online registration service Family ID and upload their Sports Health Update Forms by Dec. 3. 

Gymnastics team member Layla Ahmad, class of 2021, is extremely excited that her and her teammates “got a season this year ... even though the circumstances are different, it makes everyone so much more motivated to work harder than [they] had in any prior season.” 

Hewlett High School seniors are also enjoying regular senior activities including choosing Senior Superlatives for the yearbook, filling out forms to receive graduation caps and gowns, and purchasing senior apparel. 

School this year has been and will continue to be atypical; with the revival of clubs, sports and senior fun, however, Hewlett High students are sure to persist through courageously.