Clubs enrich the experience of students from elementary school through college, but it takes work to run one. To earn official status for a club, follow the school's procedures for chartering a new group.

Get to the Point

Your new club needs a specific focus if you want support from the school. Instead of saying you want to start a community service club, be specific as to the group's mission and purpose. You might do service projects around the school, in the community or for national causes, for example. No matter the purpose of your club, think through why you're starting it and what you hope to accomplish. Put in place the club leadership, including a faculty sponsor and officers.

Follow the Rules

For a club to earn recognition, it must adhere to district policies. According to the New York City Department of Education, a school club needs a name, description, faculty adviser, petition with signatures of potential members, plan for meetings and proposal form. Submit a written proposal that outlines specifics, such as the mission of the group and leadership details. The district may require you to have written bylaws and officers in place before you become official. If you are starting a local chapter of a national student organization, review the guidelines and regulations of the parent organization to ensure you follow them.

Hit the Ground

Once your club is official with the school, set regular meeting times, which might be weekly, biweekly or monthly. Have a specific agenda for each meeting so the time is well spent. Let people know about your club through fliers, presentations in classrooms or announcements at school.

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