Rocking with Rho Kappa

If you are looking for a place to discuss all things social studies, Rho Kappa might be the place for you. Rho Kappa is the social studies honor society that is offered for juniors and seniors.

The honor society had its first inductions in May. Rho Kappa is sponsored by social studies teacher Jennifer Mechling.  The current president is senior Mansha Nain.  Only three other schools in the district have the honor society offered at their school. 

The process for having Rho Kappa at a school is quite simple. 

“We had to write a chapter constitution,” said Mechling, “and then we had to pay the national organization.” 

Rho Kappa would have started two years ago, but due to COVID-19 it was delayed until 2021. 

“We got the charter two years ago” said Mechling, “but before we could induct we were quarantined so we didn’t have inductions until May of 2021.”

Nain joined “because [she] knew [she]wanted to go into law in the future. Having a solid community and foundation for that was important to [her].”

The usual activities for a meeting include “sharing interests, and playing Kahoot,” said senior Katharine Mclellan. 

They also organize guest speakers. 

“Rho Kappa is twofold; one is encouraging interest in history and social studies,” said Mechling. “The other is serving in our communities.” 

The group is planning on helping the community by holding a used children’s book drive in partnership with Newtown Elementary, their goal is 500 book donations by March.

The qualifications for joining are a 3.0 cumulative grade average and an interest in social studies.

Rho Kappa is a “place where you can be around like minded people,” said Nain, “and work to build something new and fresh.”