Gaming is a fun time for those of all ages. The gaming that some students and teachers do may seem a little different. Sponsored by teachers, the gaming club is a place for all students. From the basic board game to the most advanced strategic board games, this club has many different things to offer. 

“It gives me something to look forward to, something a little out of the ordinary that is not just teaching,” history teacher Joe Donahay said.

“The game club has allowed me to get out of my English classroom, which I don’t get to do very often, and interact with students in a different way,” English teacher Laura Fleck said.

“I think it’s an opportunity to work with students outside of the curriculum, outside of homework, teaching and grades,” history teacher Duane Fleck said.

As for students, those that play have their own opinions on what it is like to play board games with a teacher.

“It shows that they are real people and not just people who want to give you homework and make your weekends miserable,” senior Wes Conrad said.

The gaming club is seen by some as more of a family. It is a social way to get around people and get to know them in a new light. Some teachers just want students to know that they are real people just like they are.

“I think it has been a positive experience. Usually is helps as a teacher to connect with students on a different level that isn’t possible in the classroom with 30 other students around,” Donahay said. 

“You get a chance to interact with people in a way that you don’t get to in a classroom. They get to see you in a way they normally wouldn’t in the classroom,” Laura Fleck said.

“It’s been very rewarding. I think playing board games is becoming a lost art form. Playing the games builds friendships and helps you get to know people,” Duane Fleck said.

“It’s more relaxed and you can joke with them like ‘Oh you cheated’ and you don’t have to worry about them giving you [a] detention or anything,” Conrad said.

Students and teachers learning, passing on knowledge and working to build a brighter tomorrow is what school is all about. Gaming does just that; it gets teachers to work with the students outside of the typical teaching environment. 

“It’s given me a [better] relationship with my students. It gives me a little something to look forward to,” Donahay said.

“Seeing a kid that is thinking, ‘This is not for me,’ then seeing them come and stay all weekend for our recruits convention is really what makes it pay off,” Laura Fleck said.

“One of our continuous goals is to give a sense of belonging. That goal fits perfectly into game club,” Duane Fleck said.

Throughout the days, gaming continues to unite those that transverse the path which creates sense of unity, a home away from home or even a social club to make new friends. According to the teachers and students involved, all will be welcome in a club which only asks of those that join, to have fun and join the family.