Academic Activities
ACES Academic Challenge
Sponsor: Luke Regan
Description: Players practice and compete by taking challenging tests in their area of strength. This dramatically improves a student’s test taking skills, increasing the potential for success on various college entrance exams.
Participants: Up to 14
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Regional competition held in early February, with winners advancing to the sectional finals in March, and state finals in April.
Weekly Schedule: Individual practices by appointment, with team practice times built around players’ schedules.
Cost: None
Special Factors: Players practice and compete by taking challenging tests in their area of strength. This dramatically improves a student’s test taking skills, increasing the potential for success on various college entrance exams. High placement on the state finals exam results in a scholarship to University of Illinois School of Engineering.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: Given the specialized practice format, there are few to no conflicts.
Bible/Theology Club
Sponsor: Brian Kelly
Description: This club is for those who want to deepen their faith and understanding of God by studying and discussing theology. Our understanding of God and His nature deeply shape our faith and the way we live our lives. In this club we discuss different theological topics with the goal of coming to a deeper understanding of God. As we grow in our understanding of God, our worship of God becomes more meaningful.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year Round
Weekly Schedule: Weekly lunch meetings, weekly Bible study after school.
Cost: None
Special Factors: This club is a place for committed Christians to grow together in knowledge of God and His Word.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Business Club
Sponsors: David Rivera, Phil Strzalka
Description:
You will have an opportunity to learn about business innovation and success, participate in the planning and running of various business events, and to operate student-run businesses, including the Shack. Throughout the year, students will have an opportunity to compete in DECA sponsored events and/or the Calamos Investments Market Watch stock picking competition. They will also be eligible to join us on any fieldtrip to local businesses. The Business & Innovation Club incorporates the principles and concepts of classroom content from the Business & Innovation Program. It provides experiential learning opportunities outside the classroom.
Certain Club Officers choose to take an independent study course to operate the Shack and to conduct other Club activities.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August-May
Weekly Schedule: Weekly lunch meeting
Cost: $50
Special Factors: The Business Club will incorporate the DECA Program. Students will enter competitions to display their knowledge in many different aspects of business. We will also be attending a leadership seminar in the fall. For more information visit www.deca.org.
Parent Participation: Involvement is invited, but not required.
Known Conflicts: None; open participation
Makers Club
Sponsor: Josh Burick
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Fall through Spring
Weekly Schedule: Formal meetings once a week during lunch where we will create a weekly schedule for whenever students want to come in and work
Cost: Free unless student wants to pursue a more expensive project that is not covered by club budget.
Special Factors: Makers Club is for all students with flexible schedules that empowers students to use their creative skills in making practically whatever they like. All sorts of technology will be used in the Maker Space ranging from 3D printing to Laser CNC technology to the classic scissors and glue gun. At the beginning of the school year, students complete a small, fun project and then are given a personal budget to complete a project of their choosing. Examples range from Star Wars models, to RC cars, to class projects, to marshmallow guns and more!
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Math Team
Sponsor: Neal Roys
Description: The Math Team competes in the Metro Suburban Math Contest and the Illinois Council of Teachers of Mathematics (ICTM) Regional Meet. Last year our entire team qualified for the ICTM State Meet.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors
Season Dates: September – May
Weekly Schedule: Students will meet during lunch 2-3 times per month and twice per month on Wednesdays from 3:15 to 4:45pm.
Cost: $30
Special Factors: None
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Mock Trial Team
Sponsors: Doug Hardy & Nate Leman
Description: Want to strengthen your public speaking, critical thinking, and argumentation skills? Interested in a legal career? Join Mock Trial to compete with other schools in trial simulations. Mock Trial is a competitive courtroom-based debate club.
Each year one case is published by Illinois Mock Trial and we learn how to defend both sides of a legal argument. On several weekends we will travel (or Zoom) to a tournament and present the case before a judge and jury while another school presents the opposing side. It is a close-knit group of students who have lots of fun learning to cross-examine, object, and prove their point with supporting affidavits and exhibits.
Participants: 8-20
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Mid-November tryouts; November-December practices; January-March season
Weekly Schedule: 2-3 practices per week after school and Saturday mornings, 10 hours per week early season; 15-18 hours per week February–March.
Cost: Approximately $150 for various items and activities.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: Saturday mornings due to tournaments
Ratio Academic Journal
Sponsor: Luke Regan
Description: Ratio is an academic journal of student research curated and organized by Wheaton Academy students. All students are invited to participate, either by submitting research they are working on in or outside of class, or as editors of the journal itself. By helping to publish an issue of ratio, students gain valuable experience in preparing their work to be shared with their peers and get to see it in print.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season dates: Year round
Weekly schedule: Periodic meetings around student submissions in the fall, weekly meetings in the spring
Cost: None
Robotics Club
Sponsor: Luke Regan
Description: The purpose of the club is to design, build, and program robots for competition each year in FIRST Tech Challenge. Students need to commit. Students must be self-driven and be able to problem solve in competition settings.
Participants: Team size is maximum of 8
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: September-February
Weekly Schedule: The season begins mid-September when the game is released. We complete one Saturday each month from October to January. The regional tournament is in February. Dates, times, and location(s) are finalized early in the season.
Cost: None
Quiz/Scholastic Bowl
Sponsors: David Tollefsen
Description: Quiz Bowl (also known as Scholastic Bowl) is a knowledge-based competition that features 5 on 5 play, with students answering questions about history, fine arts, literature, science, and math. We hit buzzers and discuss potential responses before guessing, and have a great time while doing it! There is teamwork while playing and an environment of fun and friendship as well.
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Competitions take place from late October through the first week of March
Weekly Schedule: Two meetings per week; at least 1 is a practice day. Conference matches take place Tuesdays from late October through February. Between 2 and 3 all-day Saturday tournaments are scheduled from late October through early March.
Cost: Lunch money for Saturday tournaments plus $50 for apparel
Special Factors: Players need not be experts in academic study or performance; they simply must be willing to learn, compete, and have fun!
Parent Participation: Communication concerning potential conflicts with competition schedule. Participation in dinners in September and March.
Known Conflicts: Winter Sports/Musical/Orchestra and Band
Science Bowl
Sponsor: Luke Regan
Description: Science Bowl is for students who are interested in engaging in science competitions and attending academic presentations. Competitions range from Quiz Bowl style trivia to engineering challenges, and students will have opportunities to attend science talks throughout the year.
Participants: Competitive teams are limited based on transportation and the specific competition.
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Competitions and presentations occur throughout the year.
Weekly Schedule: There is no fixed weekly schedule, but each event may require preparation in the weeks leading up to it.
Special Factors: Participants should have a passion for science, math and/or computer science. Players will also benefit from familiarity with the quiz bowl format, but it is not required for participation on the team.
Cost: None.
Known Conflicts: Non known, but specific events may conflict with other activities.
Athletics Activities
Baseball (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Justin Swider
Participants: 20 maximum per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: Late February-June
Weekly Schedule: Monday-Friday, 3:00-5:30 p.m. practice, 4:30-7:00 p.m. home games, some Saturdays with double headers
Cost: Approximately $150 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer baseball June-July; practices, varsity trip during spring break (additional fees)
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities. Contact the coach for details.
Boys Basketball (Freshman, Sophomore, & Varsity)
Head Coach: Daniel Smith
Participants: 12-15 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: November-February
Weekly Schedule: Approximately four 2-hour practices and 2 games each week
Cost: Approximately $200 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer league, summer camp, Thanksgiving tournament, varsity practices during Christmas break, and possible Winterim trip for sophomore and varsity teams.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall, winter, early spring activities and possibly Winterim. Contact the coach for details.
Girls Basketball (JV, & Varsity)
Head Coach: Erin Carwell
Participants: 12-15 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: November-February
Weekly Schedule: 2-3 games per week, practice Monday-Friday
Cost: Approximately $200 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer league, summer camp, JV and Varsity practice and games during and post Christmas break and during Winterim
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall, winter, early spring activities, and possibly Winterim. Contact the coach for details.
Cross Country, Co-ed (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Chris Felinski
Participants: 50 total (25 each gender) – must be able to demonstrate the conditioning standard of being able to run 3 miles in under 25:30 for boys and under 27:00 for girls the first day of practice
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August-November (Varsity); August-mid October (JV)
Weekly Schedule: Monday-Friday, practice 3:15-5:00 p.m., Saturday meets (typically 8am-1pm)
Cost: Approximately $175 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer training: throughout June and July
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for specifics.
Football (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Jim Johanik
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: One game, practice 3:30-6:00 p.m. after school, some Saturdays
Cost: Approximately $300 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Camp Dates: June and July. Players must have 12 days of practice before playing in a game.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for specifics
Boys Golf (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Bob Broman
Participants: 9 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: 2-3 hours on non-match days, 3-4 hours for home matches, 4+ hours for away matches, periodic Saturday events
Cost: Approximately $75 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Must have golf clubs
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details.
Girls Golf (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Chip Dykema
Participants: 9-15
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: Practices or Matches, Monday thru Saturday. Practice is 5 days a week 1.5-2 hours. Matches are 3-4 hours.
Cost: Approximately $125 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Must have golf clubs
Parent Participation: As requested by the coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details.
Lacrosse (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Geof Weisenborn
Participants: 25 players on each team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: March 1-beginning of June
Weekly Schedule: 2 hours a day, 5 days a week; 15 game season
Cost: Approximately $200 for various items and activities, plus purchase or rental of lacrosse equipment and uniform
Special Factors: Players encouraged to play in fall and winter with a local lacrosse club—ask coach for details. All athletes, regardless of prior experience, are encouraged to try out.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities. Contact the coach for details.
Sideline Football Cheer (Varsity)
Head Coach: Melody Berendt
Participants: 15-20
Open to: Freshman – Senior
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: Approx. 15 hrs/week including daily practices, weekly games, and additional appearances and events.
Cost: Up to $350
Special Factors: Additional costs for tumbling throughout the year, off-season training highly recommended.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details.
Competitive/Sideline Basketball Cheer (Varsity)
Head Coach: Melody Berendt
Participants: 10-16
Open to: Freshman – Senior
Season Dates: October-February
Weekly Schedule: Approx. 20 hrs/week including daily practices, games, competitions, and additional appearances and events.
Cost: Up to $350
Special Factors: Additional costs for tumbling throughout the year, off-season training highly recommended.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Winter activities. Contact the coach for details.
Boys Soccer (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Jeff Brooke
Participants: 18-22 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: 20 hours a week
Cost: Approximately $250 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Most players play club or indoor soccer during the off-season.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details
Girls Soccer (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: Maria Selvaggio
Participants: 18-22 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: Late February-May
Weekly Schedule: Practice or games 6 days per week, 3:30-5:15 p.m. games done by 9:00 p.m.
Cost: Approximately $250 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Varsity practices & tournament over spring break; overnight trip during season
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities, spring break. Contact the coach for details.
Softball (JV)
Head Coach: Autumn Ratliff
Participants: 13-16 girls
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: Late February-May
Weekly Schedule: 2-hour practices every day after school and morning practices on Saturdays; weekday and Saturday games
Cost: Approximately $150 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Non-mandatory workouts September-February; private lessons encouraged. Possible spring break trip for varsity.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities, spring break. Contact the coach for details.
Boys & Girls Swimming
Head Coach: Kiernan Mack
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: November-February
Weekly Schedule: Dependent on club team
Cost: Dependent on club team
Special Factors: Participate in State tournament with Wheaton Academy and all other participation is with club team
Parent Participation: Travel for State tournament and club team
Known Conflicts: Winter and spring activities. Contact the coach for specifics.
Boys Tennis (JV, Varsity)
Head Coach: Elisha Hougland
Participants: 10-13 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: March-May
Weekly Schedule: Practices or matches every day after school
Cost: Approximately $125 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Racquet required. Private lessons and out-of-season training are highly recommended.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities. Contact the coach for details.
Girls Tennis (JV, Varsity)
Head Coach: Joel Visker
Participants: 10-13 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: August-October
Weekly Schedule: Practice or match every day after school and most Saturdays
Cost: Approximately $100 for various items and activities
Special Factors: WA summer tennis camp, private lessons, and out-of-season training highly recommended
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details.
Track (Co-Ed)
Head Boys Coach: Chris Felinski
Head Girls Coach: Daniel Ball
Participants: 80 total (40 each gender)
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Late February through end of May
Weekly Schedule: Practice 3:15-5:00pm, 5 days a week, and 12 outdoor meets
Cost: Approximately $150 for various items and activities
Special Factors: None
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Spring activities. Contact the coach for details.
Girls Volleyball (Freshman, JV, Varsity)
Head Coach: D.A. Nichols
Participants: 10-12 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior girls
Season Dates: August–mid-November
Weekly Schedule: 2-hour daily practices, weekend tournaments, off-season open gym, Labor Day weekend tournament and practice
Cost: Approximately $250-350 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer program, performance training, and open gyms strongly encouraged.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: Fall activities. Contact the coach for details.
Boys Volleyball (JV & Varsity)
Head Coach: D.A. Nichols
Participants: 10-12 per team
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: March-early May
Weekly Schedule: 2-hour daily practices, weekend tournaments
Cost: $200-300 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Summer program, performance training, and open gyms strongly encouraged
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent.
Known Conflicts: End of winter activities and spring activities. Contact the coach for details.
Wrestling (JV & Varsity)
Assistant Coach: TBD
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: November-February
Weekly Schedule: Practices every day after school, some weekend tournaments, regional, sectional, and state tournaments
Cost: Approximately $125 for various items and activities
Special Factors: Camp is encouraged.
Parent Participation: As requested by coach and team parent. See page 30 for details.
Known Conflicts: Winter activities. Contact the coach for specifics.
Fine Arts Activities
Artisan Craft Club
Sponsor: Rachael Burick
Description: This club provides a space and time for students to bring personal crafts to work on during lunch as well as teach crafting techniques to those who want to learn and work on a project. Crafts include simple water coloring, bullet journaling, card making, mixed media, embroidery, and more!
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-Round
Weekly Schedule: Once a week after school from 3:15-4:15pm
Cost: None
Camerata Chamber Music
Sponsor: Steve Willemssen
Participants: 10-15; by audition
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior band and orchestra students
Season Dates: First semester
Weekly Schedule: Mondays or Tuesdays mornings 7:00-7:50 a.m.; various community performances throughout the school year
Cost: None
Special Factors: Open by audition
Parent Participation: Transportation to morning rehearsals
Known Conflicts: None
Chanson: Women's A Cappella Ensemble
Pronounced “shan-SAHN” (French word translated “Song”)
Sponsor: Joel Visker
Description: Any female WA student
Music Style: Pop A Capella
Participants: 12-20 students
Open to: Any female WA student by audition
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Friday mornings, 7:00-7:55 a.m.
Cost: None
Special Factors: By audition
Parent Participation: Transportation to 7:00am rehearsals
Known Conflicts: None
Fall Show
Sponsor: Corbett Burick
Participants: 10-20; by audition
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: September-October
Weekly Schedule: Rehearsals 2-3 times per week; dress rehearsal week; two-four performances in October
Cost: Tickets and $20 for optional sweatshirt
Special Factors: One week of evening dress rehearsals
Parent Participation: Meals during rehearsal week
Known Conflicts: Fall sports and other fall activities. Contact the sponsor for details.
Furnace Company Dance Team
Sponsor: Lissy Bailey
Participants: By audition (next audition scheduled for Wednesday, May 10th)
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August retreat; auditions are twice a year (September and May), 2 performances (November and May)
Weekly Schedule: Rehearsals two times a week; 2 performances throughout the year; November tour; occasional early morning practice.
Cost: $50 for retreat; $200-$500 for tour
Special Factors: Tour is in November.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: Most sports. Contact the sponsor for details.
Furnace Company Improv Team
Sponsor: Joe Jones
Participants: by audition
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August retreat; auditions twice a year (September and May)
Weekly Schedule: Rehearsals twice a week; performances throughout the year; November tour
Cost: $50 for retreat; $200-$500 for tour
Special Factors: Tour is in November.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: Most sports. Contact the sponsor for details.
Jazz Ensemble
Sponsor: Steve Willemssen
Participants: 15-30; by audition
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior band and orchestra students
Season Dates: September-May
Weekly Schedule: Rehearsals Thursdays or Fridays before school
Cost: None
Special Factors: None
Parent Participation: Transportation to morning rehearsals
Known Conflicts: None
KANTOREI: Mixed A Cappella Ensemble
Pronounced “KAHN-tor-eye” (German word translated “Choir”)
Mixed Ensemble comprised of students who demonstrate advanced vocal music skills, understanding of harmony, and the ability learn quickly. Perform in Evening of Classics, annual choral concerts, WA assemblies, and in the community.
Sponsor: Joel Visker
Music styles: Pop Acappella, Vocal Jazz, one Renaissance Motet/Madrigal
Participants: Any WA Student
Open to: Any WA student by audition
Season Dates: Year-Round
Weekly Schedule: Weekly practice Tuesday mornings, 7:00-7:55 a.m.
Cost: None
Special Factors: By audition
Parent Participation: Transportation to 7:00 a.m. rehearsal
Known Conflicts: None
Pep Band
Sponsor: Steve Willemssen
Participants: 40-70; by audition
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior band and orchestra students
Season Dates: September-February
Weekly Schedule: Rehearsals Thursdays or Fridays before school
Cost: None
Special Factors: Attendance at 10-15 athletic events
Parent Participation: Transportation to morning rehearsals
Known Conflicts: None
Spring Musical
Sponsor: Corbett Burick
Participants: 40-60 in cast; by audition
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: January-March; auditions in December
Weekly Schedule: Dependent on role, 4-5 times per week after school, and on Saturdays
Cost: Tap shoes and $20 for optional sweatshirt
Special Factors: One week of evening dress rehearsals; rehearsal on President’s Day
Parent Participation: Meals during rehearsal week; intermission desserts
Known Conflicts: Varsity girls and boys basketball, indoor track, and wrestling. Contact the sponsor for details.
Spring Musical Crews
Sponsors:
Nancy Burick (Costumes)
Josh Burick (Set Construction/Design)
Rachel Burick (Tech)
TBD (Stage)
Angela Broman (Props)
Leah Rinker (Hair & Make-up)
Jim Holtrop (Servers)
Participants: Unlimited; by sign up
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: February-March
Weekly Schedule: Approximately 2 hours after school, some Saturdays and all show dates. Contact sponsor for detailed schedule.
Cost: $20 for optional sweatshirt
Special Factors: Contact the sponsor for details.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Spring Musical Pit Orchestra
Sponsor: Steve Willemssen
Participants: 20-30; by audition
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior band and orchestra students
Season Dates: January-March
Weekly Schedule: Mondays and Wednesdays from 3:30-6:00 p.m. in January and February; more often during dress rehearsal and performance weeks
Cost: $20 for optional sweatshirt
Special Factors: Contact the sponsor for details.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: Varsity girls and boys basketball, indoor track, and wrestling. Contact the sponsor for details.
Tech Crew
Sponsor: Rachael Burick, Joe Jones
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors after they receive training
Season Dates: Year-Round
Weekly Schedule: Twice a week after school from 3:15-5:15pm
Cost: None
Special Factors: Training by sponsors required
Community Service
Kingdom Community Student Group
Sponsors: Brian Hogan, Davona Reynolds, Kermit Ellison
Description: Our Kingdom Community student group meets weekly for discussion and prayer as we seek to navigate our world today. Foundationally, we want to learn about God’s Kingdom and consider our responsibility to demonstrate its character here on earth. How we treat others is our greatest opportunity to reflect the heart of God and to live like Jesus. As a result, we talk extensively about relationships. We value everyone’s story and strive to know each other at a heart level, not only on the surface. We discuss how to encourage one another, how to listen, and how to speak the truth in love. We learn how to handle conflict and how to represent Christ when it arises. This group provides a safe space to process and pray, to be challenged and encouraged as we strive to live God’s Kingdom in our Wheaton Academy community.
Participants: Unlimited
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Wednesdays at lunch
Cost: None
Service Project Club
Sponsors: Eric Bowling
Description: By participating in the Service Project Club, you’ll help others, learn leadership skills, and serve those around you. Our projects help to meet needs in the surrounding community or on campus.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Monthly meetings on campus. Service projects TBD on a monthly basis.
Cost: None
Purpose: To raise awareness of service and service opportunities and serve on our campus and in our communities.
Leadership
Class Round Tables
Class Sponsors: Jim Holtrop, Lauren Spitler Leah Rinker Alyssa Strzalka
Description: Class round tables give each student a place to meet others in their class, discuss events that are upcoming, voice concerns, and offer suggestions to unite and improve their individual grade level.
Participation: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Lunch time meetings throughout the school year
Cost: None
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Maroon Platoon
Sponsor: Leah Rinker
Description: Maroon Platoon is a fun community designed to express school spirit at our Athletic competitions. Students involved in Maroon Platoon lead cheers and plan dress-up themes at home games.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Determined by the Athletic calendar during the fall, winter, and spring seasons
Weekly Schedule: Evening HOME games
Cost: None, optional clothing items. If interested in optional items cost between $10-30 for sweatshirts, WA shirts, jersey, joggers or hats.
Purpose: Build school spirit and community among students at athletic events.
National Honor Society
Sponsor: Trish Main
Description: This organization is joined by invitation only. Members can The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to recognize those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character.
Participants: Participants who meet the criteria listed below are invited to apply in September. After a review of the applications, acceptance is verified in October.
Open to: Invitations are extended to Juniors & Seniors who have been enrolled full time at Wheaton Academy for at least 2 semesters and meet the high standards of scholarship (minimum of 3.6 cumulative GPA), Christian character, leadership, and service.
Season Dates:
September: Qualifying Juniors and Seniors will be invited to apply.
October: After review of the applications, acceptance is verified.
April: Members submit their report of service for the year.
May: Induction ceremony
Weekly Schedule: Students are expected to serve in their communities throughout the school year, taking advantage of opportunities they discover around them and also seeking out opportunities outside their usual routine. In April, they will submit a written description of their service and the effects of the service on both the recipient and themselves.
Cost: None
Special Factors: Our society is a part of the nation-wide program that was originally chartered in 1934.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Project LEAD
Head Sponsor: Eric Bowling
Description: We believe that you have an incredible ability to influence the world around you. The Student Leadership Program at Wheaton Academy will develop and equip you to serve and build God’s Kingdom on our campus, in community, and throughout the world. Everyone has the ability to lead because leadership is serving and positively influencing others. In order to grow as a leader, you will be provided with authentic leadership opportunities at Wheaton Academy.
Participants: Unlimited. Participants are chosen by application and acceptance in April of students’ junior year.
Open to: Seniors—application and interview process completed by the end of junior year
Season Dates: Mid-April of students’ junior year to late-May senior year
Weekly Schedule: 4-8 hours/week; evening meetings every two weeks. Participation in student activities and spiritual life at Wheaton Academy is expected regularly.
Cost: No fees
Special Factors: None
Known Conflicts: None
Mission Statement: Learn more about Project LEAD here.
Student Council
Sponsors: Jim Holtrop
Description: Student Council offers students the opportunity to provide and lead the student body with inclusive and fun activities. If you enjoy planning activities and sharing ideas to mold the culture of the social life of the school, Student Council is for you. This is a great place to start developing your leadership skills and passions before applying to Project Lead.
Participants: Participants are chosen by application and acceptance in the spring of the previous school year
Open to: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August-May
Weekly Schedule: Meetings twice a month during lunch; extra meetings during Homecoming
Cost: None
Special Factors: Must attend all student activities, including Homecoming, Christmas Soiree, and Sock Hop.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
WA Student Reps
Sponsors: Amy Hogan, Amy Burdett
Description:WA Student Reps are ambassadors of Wheaton Academy and assist the Admissions Department during the school year. As ambassadors of Wheaton Academy, student representatives are responsible for making our visitors feel welcome and important. WA Reps help at all Admissions events throughout the year, serving in a variety of ways such as: leading tours, hosting shadows, mingling with new families & students, energizing middle school students at events, welcoming visitors, helping in the Admission Office, and more.
Participants: Participants are chosen by application in fall
Open to: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Participation as needed.
Cost: None
Special Factors: Separate evening and daytime events
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None
Worship Team
Sponsors: Evan Jasper & Brian Hogan
Description: The Worship Team is a place for students to both use and grow their talents in a chapel setting and on a few worship nights. Students lead others in worship via vocals, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, piano, drums, bass, cello, violin, and by running the sound system, lighting system, projection of lyrics, and live stream mixing. We learn more about worshiping God and get to do so together in a fun community atmosphere. You also learn skills that can carry over into leading worship at your own church.
Open to: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Participants: 25-30. Participants are chosen by application and audition in the spring of the previous year
Season Dates: August retreat; active during the entire school year
Weekly Schedule: 2-hour evening rehearsals, 1.5-hr morning rehearsals; schedule changes week to week depending upon chapel schedule and student availability
Cost: Approximately $50 for various items and activities
Special Factors: None
Parent Participation: Parents are encouraged to pray regularly for the team
Known Conflicts: None
Media
Live Video & Television Program
Sponsor: Rachel Burick, Joe Jones
Description: More and more businesses and colleges are looking for students with 21st century skills, not just knowledge and education. Some of the many skills we teach through our livestream program are: creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, technology, media, and leadership. Join our livestream team and begin to make a difference in our world.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August-June
Weekly Schedule: Optional lunch meeting once a month; unlimited opportunities for sign-up to produce chapels, sporting events, school activities and fine arts events
Cost: Shirt (optional)
Special Factors: There are a variety of positions available: Camera Operator, Commentators and Play-by-Play Announcers, Audio Engineer, Assistant Director, Director, Graphic Designer, Production Assistant
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None; open participation
Yearbook
Sponsors: Kristen Rusthoven
Description: Yearbook offers an opportunity for any student to be involved in documenting the school year. Students that enjoy graphic design, writing, and/or photography will enjoy developing and/or discovering new skills in the Yearbook club. Students get to be involved with all activities on campus and enjoy the comradery of working with other yearbook members.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: August-June
Weekly Schedule: Weekly meeting (before or after school) and work online as needed
Cost: None
Special Factors: Members are responsible for designing, creating, and formatting Wheaton Academy’s yearbook.
Parent Participation: None
Known Conflicts: None; open participation; Seasonal participation is also an option
Recreation
Climbing Club
Sponsor: Luke Regan
Description: Climbing club is open to all students who are interested in learning how to rock climb and want to go climbing together. While we will learn how to rock climb safely and improve our strength and technique, the focus of the club is building a safe and respectful climbing community that enjoys spending time together.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Trips to Vertical Endeavors in Glendale Heights 2-3 times a month from 3:15- 6:00 p.m. on Thursdays. Climbing Team will have the opportunity to participate in 2-3 competitions throughout the year.
Cost: $10 per visit to Vertical Endeavors
Special Factors: We climb at Vertical Endeavors, a world class indoor climbing wall in Glendale Heights. Students may need to provide their own transportation.
Parent Participation: Sign liability waivers; help keep kids accountable for safety and positive mature behavior
Known Conflicts: None; open participation
Disc Club
Sponsor: David Rivera
Description: Do you love watching a piece of plastic fly through the sky? Then Disc Club might be right for you! We play Ultimate Frisbee (a cross between football and soccer) and Disc Golf (golf… but with a disc!) and are open to all skill levels. Come give this welcoming community a try!
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Weekly Schedule: Wednesdays after school for frisbee golf; every other Friday after school for Disc
Cost: none
Special Factors: Ultimate Frisbee is played year round as field/court space permits. Disc Golf is played in the Fall and Spring as the weather permits.
E-Sports: Smash Brothers and Rocket League
Sponsors: Luke Reagan and Jim Holtrop
Description: The E-Sports teams represent Wheaton Academy in competitions against other schools in our conference. We also meet informally during the week to build community and compete against other students at our school. E-Sports is one of the fastest growing sports in the country, and everyone who is interested is welcome to join.
Open to: All students
When: Every Thursday after school and one Saturday TBD
Place: Library
Prerequisite: A Nintendo Switch preferred but not required.
Special Factors: Students play video games against other MSC school teams and compete in final all school Saturday tournament
Cost: None
Fishing Club
Sponsor: Eric Bowling
Description: So students can develop a lifelong love of fishing that allows them to better understand God’s truth about Himself and His creation. We care for the earth. We serve others. We learn how to catch fish!
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Dependent on weather
Weekly Schedule: Weekly meetings
Cost: $50
Special Factors: Personal fishing equipment required. We are members of the Student Angler Federation. We schedule several fishing “practices” at local ponds and lakes.
Game Design Club
Sponsors: Sean McCallum
Description: Do you enjoy playing and creating games? Are you interested in how theme, story and mechanics work together to create an engaging and fun experience? Want to learn more about game design? What about the artwork that brings a game to life? We’ll learn how games work and about their basic elements, how designers create an experience for the player, and how to prototype and iterate your own game design. We cover both programming approaches as well as Unity and traditional board game design.
You’ll be playing and evaluating games to learn more about how they work before choosing known mechanics to craft your own games with an emphasis on collaboration. Designers and artists will work together to hone the look and feel of the game and its components.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: All Year
Weekly Schedule: Every other Friday at lunch and occasionally after school
Cost: None
Special Factors:
Gaming Club
Sponsor: David Rivera
Description: Tabletop gaming has exploded in popularity as a hobby in recent years due to strategic, innovative games like Settlers of Catan and Ticket to Ride, which have led to thousands of new games being created, many of which with widespread appeal! In addition to their newfound popularity, board and card games are a great way to put down our phones and interact with one another face-to-face over a shared experience. Come join us for laughter, competition, and community… and don’t forget to bring a game to teach!
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Mondays at lunch in Library; 1 Friday night per month to play board games; Possible tournament
Cost: None
Guys' Campout
Sponsor: Sean McCallum
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshman, sophomore, junior, and senior boys
Season Dates: 3rd or 4th weekend in Sept. Friday – Sunday
Schedule: Arrive at WA by 8 a.m. on Friday morning and returning to WA by 2 p.m. on Sunday afternoon
Cost: $75.00 covers meals, transportation and a Campout t-shirt.
Add $25 to receive a Campout hoodie.
Special Factors: Bring a sleeping bag and pad if you have one. Hammocks are popular alternatives to a tent. Bring a tent if you have one! Rain or shine, we’ll have a great time!
Purpose and Campout Culture: Our effort to build a Kingdom Community at Wheaton Academy is rooted in our desire to see each student have a growing relationship with Jesus Christ. We emphasize conduct that is appropriate for building one another up, encourages discipleship between grade levels and emphasizes student leadership. This includes issues regarding physical and emotional safety, appropriate language and topics of discussion. Join with me in encouraging your kids to capitalize on this special time together for building and practicing Kingdom Community culture at Wheaton Academy.
Ski/Snowboard Club
Sponsor: Virginia Poe
Description: The Ski and Snowboard Club is a group that travels together to ski at a Midwest ski resort once per month.
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season dates: Year round
Monthly schedule: All participants are currently responsible for the cost of their lift ticket and equipment rental.
Cost: None
Special factors: None
Parent participation: Parents are welcome to meet us at the resort to ski!
Known conflicts: None
Trap Team
Sponsor: Ken Ellis
Description: The trap team shoots clay pigeons thrown from a machine. The gun of choice is a 12-gauge shotgun. In addition to shooting trap, we shoot Skeet, sporting clays and 5 stand. We shoot at Saint Charles Sportsmen’s Club in Elburn. This sport is perfect to hone any hand eye sport, baseball, tennis, basketball.
Participants: 15
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Eight weeks in the Fall & eight weeks in the Spring
Weekly Schedule: Tuesday 6pm, Saturdays at noon
Cost: The cost to become a shooting member at the Club is $100. Each time we shoot there is an $11 fee for the clays and use of the machines. Students must supply the gun and ammo (school guns may be used for a limited time). Shirts and/vests are extra but not necessary.
Special Factors: Students must have an FOID card or show proof of application. It is also strongly recommended that both parents have the FOID card as well.
World Cultures
Kairos
Sponsors: Davona Reynolds, Charity Moon
Description: Kairos is a weekly meeting for our international student community where we celebrate our diversity in cultures and develop meaningful relationships. During Kairos we enjoy good food, fellowship, and fun activities. It is a great place to make new friends, and learn more about our international student community.
Participants: International students and friends
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: September-May
Weekly Schedule: Monday evenings, 5:00-7:00 p.m.; regular attendance encouraged to build relationships; occasional Kairos events as determined by Kairos calendar.
Cost: None
Special Factors: None
Parent Participation: Transportation needed to and from Kairos meetings and events
Known Conflicts: None
Spanish Ministry | Sin Paredes
PUENTE DEL NIÑO AFTER SCHOOL (Spanish Ministry)
Sponsor: TBD
Description: If you are interested in helping elementary aged kids (mostly from immigrant, non-English speaking backgrounds) with their homework (math, science, social studies, reading, etc.) and just hanging out with them for gym and recess time.
WHEN? Any day after school for the season of the year that works for you (3:30-6:00)
WHERE? Either Indian Knoll Elementary School OR Wegner Elementary School (5 min. driving from WA)
WHY? It’s a GREAT opportunity to serve in our community using the gifts God has given to you and a GREAT opportunity to build relationships with others in the community who have different life experiences from you. And it is great opportunity to practice your Spanish with native speakers. God has been using this ongoing relationship to bless both the kids being tutored AND US!!!
Participants: Spanish students
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round, including possible summer opportunities
Weekly Schedule: Thursdays during lunch and other appointed times according to ministry area: Tutoring Ministry, Christian Education Ministry, Ministry Worship Team, and Team Guatemala.
Cost: None
Spanish Club
Sponsor: TBD
Participants: Unlimited
Open to: Freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors
Season Dates: Year-round
Weekly Schedule: Once a month during lunch.
Cost: None
Special Factors: None
Activities: Every end of the month we will organize a great event such as:
- Food classes
- Dance classes
- Praise time
- Special guests
- Celebration of Latino festivities
- Community service
- Movies in Spanish with Spanish subtitles
- Games