Interact Club at WI Rapids Public Schools

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis (WFHR/WIRI) – The Interact Club at WI Rapids Public Schools began several years ago and has gone through a few name changes along the way. Interact Club Advisor Melanie Kozlowski said the club began as a way to address student concerns over bullying. She said students have really taken the club to new heights. The club is a way to connect with one another, reach out to new students, and address mental health in school. Students come up with ideas for the club and they change from year to year.

Name change

The name “Interact” came about after the club was adopted by the local Rotary. The two groups work together to complete projects in the community. The Rotary Club’s mission is service above self. That aligns with the mission of the Interact Club at WI Rapids Public Schools. Kozlowski said the students are heavily invested in the community. By partnering with the Rotary Club, they’re able to network with others who are also invested in doing good work in the community.

Mental Health

As Interact Club President, Ava Lang discussed the importance of addressing mental health in the student body. She said some students don’t have mental health support at home. Interact Club members pioneer discussions at school which empowers students to know they have support. Students can reach out to any members of the Interact Club if they need someone to talk to or need help finding resources. Lang said their focus on mental health in their members, the student body, and even the community is a big part of what they do.

Rise to Remember

In May, the Interact Club hosts their “Rise to Remember” event. This is another effort to focus on mental health while partnering with other local organizations. They hold a resource fair where students can come in and talk with organizations in our area. The event concludes with entertainment where students are able to perform. This can be anything from poetry, to art, music, or dance. This is a free event and open to the public to showcase student achievement.

Links

If you’re a community member or organization interested in the “Rise to Remember” event in May, you can reach out to Interact Club Advisor Melanie Kozlowski. You can also follow the Interact Club at WI Rapids Public Schools on their Facebook page. Listen to the full interview with James J. Malouf and guests here.