The Omicron variant has been spreading rapidly at Arcadia High School (AHS). Students who have tested positive or been in close contact  are ordered to stay home. With many absences, clubs were required to cancel all meetings until the end of January. 

Officers of Hope Can Cure Cancer Club, Kare 4 Kids, Key Club, Music Makes Miracles, and Red Cross Club gave their input on the canceling mandate and how members can stay engaged. 

All of the clubs agreed that canceling in-person meetings in January was a good idea for the safety of AHS students. 

“I think it’s reasonable for club meetings to be canceled in January because there are many students absent, many club officers included,” said junior Cindy Lu, secretary of Red Cross Club.

“Although the foreseeable future is unknown, it would be nice to resume in-person club meetings in February,” said senior Ian Lau, co-president of Hope Can Cure Cancer Club. 

Junior Gwyneth Ngo, vice president of Music Makes Miracles, also expressed that “putting the safety of our classmates first is our number one priority.”

Most clubs are uncertain of whether or not they will be able to reopen in February, but everyone hopes they will. Until then, the clubs shared their opinions on moving to online meetings.

“If we are forced to cancel in-person events in February then we will host online meetings,” said senior Michelle Chen, president of Key Club. “However for the remainder of the month, we don’t intend on having virtual meetings because we are asked to pause in-person service events,” she added.

Red Cross Club expressed similar thoughts to Key Club. On the other hand, the other clubs explained that moving to online meetings would probably not be their next move, as it would be difficult to garner active participation.

In our technologically-advanced world, it isn’t too hard for club members to stay engaged. Music Makes Miracles asked members to find updates through its social media pages, including Facebook and Instagram. Also, students should be sure to look out for email blasts to keep themselves updated for future virtual events or volunteer opportunities. 

“K4K is continuing to stay in touch with some of the elementary schools to offer our service and create virtual volunteer opportunities for its members,” said senior Matthew Chung, vice president of Kare 4 Kids. 

“To stay engaged, Red Cross Club members can attend our Youth Corps virtual events,” said senior Michelle Huo, co-president of Red Cross Club. “Regional Youth Corps are held almost every week throughout the rest of the school year.” 

Finally, each club encouraged students to keep on exploring and taking part in things they’re passionate about, even if COVID-19 might have plans changed and events postponed.

“In the event that school and work become very stressful, we encourage you all to find comfort in diving yourselves into the beauty of music,” said junior Kaden Cho, activities coordinator of Music Makes Miracles. 

“Though you may feel discouraged, remain hopeful and excited for all of the new opportunities to come! Stay optimistic and safe!” said senior Elise Fong, co-president of Kare 4 Kids. 

Students at AHS should remember to be alert, calm, and most of all enthusiastic about what is to come. After all, COVID may ruin plans, but AHS students are always able to adapt to it in the best ways possible. 

Photo courtesy of AUSD