Activities

Welcome to the Home of the Falcons!

Armstrong High School offers a variety of co-curricular and extracurricular activities designed to meet the interests of students.

Participation in a school activity can be a valuable and rewarding experience, adding to a well-rounded education. Not only does one experience a feeling of satisfaction, personal achievement, and camaraderie, but one gains skills in decision-making, goal setting and teamwork. We sincerely hope you find an interest in one of more of the more than 75 activities (school-sponsored teams, clubs and fine arts) and choose to participate.

NOTE: Some of these activities may not be offered every year. Our offerings vary with student interest, our ability to locate qualified advisers, and activity funding. Also, students who are eligible for free or reduced lunch may be eligible for reduced activity fees. See your coach/advisor or the activities secretary for more information.

Armstrong Activities and Athletics Information Sheet Fall 2022

Contact

Larry Tate
Activities Director
763-504-8818
Larry_Tate@rdale.org

Becky Enderlein
Assistant
763-504-8833
Rebecca_Enderlein@rdale.org

Office Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

Registration
Activities and Athletics COVID guidelines

Registration

We are excited to announce that we now have ONLINE REGISTRATION available for all activities! We encourage everyone to set up your family account. You will be able to list all of your Armstrong students under a family account.

A few highlights with online registration:

You will need your Students ID #, which can be found on your students Armstrong ID card or their most recent report card.
If you have a new sports physical, you will be able to upload it within the registration process.
All MSHLS Eligibility Documents are within the registration so you can approve and electronically sign.
Emergency Contact information is included in the registration process.
PAY ONLINE with your credit or debit card. Or choose to pay later and bring cash/check to the athletic office.

Once you have your account set up you will need to verify it with your email. You can then easily add your students to your account.

To register online, click on this link – https://armstronghs-ar.rschooltoday.com/

If you would like to register with forms, they can be downloaded below or picked up in the Armstrong activity office beginning August 2.

The Armstrong Activities office will be open beginning August 2 - 7:30 am - 3:30 pm.

Complete and return registration form and activity emergency card to the Activities/Athletics Office; do not bring to your first practice or tryout.

Activity registration form

activity emergency card

Activities and Athletics COVID guidelines

The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) recently updated their guidelines regarding student-athlete participation in practices and competitions following a positive COVID test.

The updated guidelines are as follows:

COVID Positive Requirements:

Days 0-5: Individuals may not participate in practice or competitions.

Days 6-10: To participate in practices and contests on days 6-10, the individual's symptoms must be improving** and they must be fever-free for at least 24 hours

During days 6-10, individuals must wear a well-fitting mask at all times, avoid travel and avoid being around people who are at high risk.
If the participant receives a negative COVID test, they may participate in practices and competitions without a mask.

**Symptoms improving means that a person no longer feels ill - they can do their daily routine just as they did before they were sick. The cough should be greatly improved and they should no longer be feeling body aches/chills. It is normal for nasal congestion and loss of smell to linger for weeks, it is ok to return with these symptoms. Fatigue should have improved enough that they can make it through a full school day without needing to lay down and rest.

What this means:

Students may now return to practices and competitions on day 6, but a well fitting mask must be worn on days 6-10
If a student wants to practice/compete on days 6-10 without a mask, they must receive a negative COVID test
- Negative results from unsupervised home tests will not be accepted
- Negative test results must be from a lab-confirmed/supervised COVID test. The only home tests accepted are Vault (ACON Flowflex) supervised rapid antigen tests, which are available in the school health office
  - COVID-19 antigen tests are preferred over PCR/molecular tests as molecular tests can yield positive results even after an individual has recovered from their illness.
  - Students at Armstrong may visit the school health office for on-site testing or pick up a Vault supervised antigen test.
  - Students at Cooper may pick up a Vault supervised antigen test from their school health office.
- Documentation (image, PDF, etc.) of the negative COVID tests results should be sent via email to the following individuals:
  - School nurse
  - Activities and Athletics Director
  - Coach
  - COVID Response Team ( covid19@rdale.org)
    - Please note: a photo of a test stick with negative results will not be accepted
- If a student continues to test positive on day 6 or after, they must continue wearing a mask until a negative COVID test is received or until day 11

If you have specific questions related to school events, performances, activities or athletics, please reach out to coaches, event coordinators or performance directors.

Updates regarding quarantines in the event of at-home exposure, and those details can be found on the district’s COVID-19 updates page.

Learn More

African Empire Dance Group

The purpose of this group is to create a safe space for African students here at Armstrong as well as students from different backgrounds and cultures to express their emotions and feelings through dance.

Advisor(s): Jessica Stewart-Robinson
Where to go for more info: Room 299/ J_Stewart-Robinson@Rdale.org / 763-504-8755
Season: All school year (September-June)
When activity takes place: Tuesday and Thursdays 3:30-5:00 in the Culture and Climate office
Eligibility requirements: Open to all interested students
Average number of members: Approximately 10
Cost: None
Lettering Opportunities: No

Armstrong Productions

Amstrong Productions All year (September – June) some meetings over summer

In this yearlong club, students have the opportunity to be a part of Armstrong TV or Armstrong Speaks (the Podcast). In participating, students will explore storytelling, videography, sound and film editing, and content creation.
When activity takes place: Mondays after school in 270
Cost: n/a
Lettering Opportunities: Participation contributes to a letter through the Art Department.
Requirements: Interest, commitment, & participation
Adviser: Heidi Miller (270) heidi_miller@rdale.org
Social Media:
    Instagram & TikTok: @ArmstrongProductions_
  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@armstrongmediaservices8704
  Podcast: https://rss.com/podcasts/armstrongspeaks/

Art Club (NAHS)

Art Club (NAHS) All year (September – June)

In this yearlong club, students will have the opportunity to build an art community here at Armstrong. Students should expect to participate in collaborative art projects, plan and host school-wide events such as Project Greenway or the Carnival, create fundraising events such as an art sale, and, participate in art shares and community feedback events. If a student is interested in becoming a part of the National organization NAHS (National Art Honor Society), they should talk to Miller.
When activity takes place: Tuesdays afters chool in 270
Cost: $10 only if joining NAHS (National Art Honor Society)
Lettering Opportunities: Participation contributes to a letter through the Art Department.
Requirements: Interest in and a love for art!
Adviser: Heidi Miller (270) heidi_miller@rdale.org
Social Media: Instagram: @ArmstrongArtNerds

Best Buddies

Best Buddies provides an opportunity for dedicated high school students to be matched in a one-to-one friendship with a student with an intellectual and/or physical disability. This is an important friendship in the lives of those students that could be lasting.

Advisor(s): Grant Brakob, Kelsey Henry
Where to go for more info: Grant_Brakob@Rdale.org, 763-504-8887 | Kelsey_Henry@Rdale.org
Season: September to May
When activity takes place: Group activities once a month. Contact with your buddy once a week.
Eligibility requirements: Complete a Best Buddies online application
Average number of members: 75-100
Cost or needed equipment: Minimal activity costs
Activity fee: NA
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Chess Club

Chess club gives students an opportunity to play friendly games of chess against their peers in a low-stress environment. Students also learn new tactics and strategies to improve their own games. Chess players of all levels are welcome to come. We participate in local MCA (Minnesota Chess Association) tournaments and friendly tournaments against other clubs. The game of chess provides networking opportunities and promotes the development of pattern recognition and strategic critical thinking skills for realistic and future usage.
When activity takes place: Mondays after school, and Tuesdays and Thursdays during Lunch hours
Average number of members: 10
Lettering Opportunities?: No
Cost: None
Requirements: None
Advisor: TBD
More Information: Room TBD

Cycle Club

Armstrong Cycle Club is a Co-Ed competitive mountain bike club whose purpose is to provide healthy, active cycling experiences for 7th – 12th grade students in our community. All athletes participate and have the opportunity to score points for the team. While mountain biking is inherently fun, our 5 challenging races will test your resolve to finish.

armstrong cycle club website

Advisor(s): Brian Skarsten
Where to go for more info: Coach@armstrongcycleclub.com or www.armstrongcycleclub.com
Season: Fall (July 1 – October 31)
When activity takes place: Practices are after school 2 times per week – Mon & Wed, and Saturdays
Competitions/performances: There are five Sunday races in September and October
Eligibility requirements: All students are welcome to participate
Cost or needed equipment: $400 total for Club Dues, registration fees and race fees (approx.). Mountain bike and helmet required.
Average number of members: 17
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Dance Team - Fall Performance

A fun non-competition dance club where dancers will practice and perform routines that will incorporate techniques and skills primarily from the styles of jazz and high kick.

Advisor(s): Rozlyn Paradis
Where to go for more info: coach.rozparadis@gmail.com
Season: Fall
When activity takes place: Practices are after school four to five times a week
Performances: Home football and soccer games, pep fests with local school performances and parades.
Eligibility requirements: Tryouts
Average number of members: 25
Cost or needed equipment: $110 plus performance uniform, team jacket and other team apparel
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Debate

Debate is a MSHSL (Minnesota State High School League) activity in which students compete individually or as two-person teams to prove your words are better than your opponents. Debate is a fast paced activity where students are required to argue a range of topics. Students participate in weekly tournaments all leading up to the MSHSL's oldest and most storied State Tournament held on the campus of the University of Minnesota.

Robbinsdale debate website

Advisor(s): Richard Brynteson
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office, website, rbrynteson@brynteson.info
Season: September - January
When activity takes place: Practice twice a week after school
Competitions/performances: Weekly from September – January
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 40
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Deca

Business and marketing club where students learn skills to help them for life after Cooper. Students will have an opportunity to compete against other high schools in different business events like Mock Interviews, Entrepreneurship Ideas and Business Plans.

Advisor(s): Brianna Hershey
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities Office | brianna_hershey@rdale.org
Season: October-April
When activity takes place: We meet on Tuesdays during the lunch hour at Cooper high school. Students are free to join on google meet if unable to drive over during the school day.
Requirements: Come to meetings and compete at Districts
Cost: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes – based off competition and years in club
Average number of members: 30/Co-cop with Cooper High School

Environmental Club

E-Sports Club

The E-Sports Club is a chance for students to come together and compete with one another in video game competition. Tournaments are created so everyone has a chance to play each game at least one time. The club members will determine which video games will be used for each tournament. Students must enter into the tournament and will be told which date their games will be on.

Adviser(s): TBD
Where to go for more info: TBD
Season: Weekly – November - May
When activity takes place: After school on Wednesdays
Eligibility requirements: 9-12 grade All students are welcome to watch tournament games but only students who have a scheduled game will compete. You cannot enter a competition if you have any NCs.
Average number of members: The size of each tournament will be determined by the students who are eligible to enter.
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Fellowship of Christian Athletes

This is a national organization that is student lead. Student athletes discuss and grow together in their faith with a common platform of the sports arena. A typical huddle includes prayer, game time, sport updates, lesson, and small group discussions.

Advisor(s): Bill McCloskey
Where to go for more info: William_McCloskey@Rdale.org / 763-504-8934 / twitter: @Armstrong_FCA, Instagram: Armstrong FCA
Season: August - May
When activity takes place: Every other Monday, 7:00 pm (Location TBD)
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 40
Cost or needed equipment: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

FIRST Robotics

FIRST (For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) Robotics is an international competition to build a robot within a six week period to accomplish a certain task that changes every year. Many aspects are involved as in building and maintaining web pages, creating animated safety demonstrations, engineering design, designing and building a robot, and electrical design to name a few. And of course, a lot of fun and hard work.

first inspires website

Advisor(s): Jay Dornfeld
Where to go for more info: Jay_Dornfeld@Rdale.org / 763-504-8929
Season: All year but the main season is from early January to the middle of February with the regional competition in April.
When activity takes place: After school
Competitions/performances: Regional Competition in April
Eligibility requirements: Everyone is encouraged to join.
Average number of members: 15-20 but can be more, Co-ed
Cost or needed equipment: $25 but will be discounted with fundraising efforts

GSA/Safe Students/LGBT

The Armstrong Gender & Sexuality Alliance (GSA), Safe Students or Lesbian/Gay/Bisexual/Transgender (LGBT) Group serves to promote respect and acceptance for all students and their families regardless of gender identity or sexual orientation. It also provides education, awareness and support for LGBT students, and organizes activities aimed at creating a positive school climate for all students.

Armstrong also offers a LGBT Support Group which provides students a safe place to talk to peers in smaller group settings about personal issues specific to students who identify as LGBT.

Advisor(s): Tim Shaikoski
Where to go for more info: Tim_Shaikoski@rdale.org, 763-504-8827
Season: All year (September-June)
When activity takes place: Meets twice a month or TBD
Eligibility requirements: None. All are welcome. General interest in diversity and human rights is helpful.
Average number of members: 20-25
Cost or needed equipment: None

International Cultural Exchange Group

The International Cultural Exchange Group provides support, community building, education and leadership opportunities for international exchange students.

Advisor(s): Jamie Dukowitz
Where to go for more information: Guidance Office / Jamie_Dukowitz@Rdale.org / 763-504-8824
Season: All year
When activity takes place: Two times a month
Eligibility requirements: International exchange student
Cost or needed equipment: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Intramurals - Basketball

Intramurals is an opportunity for students to compete against other students in a less competitive league. It is not associated with the Minnesota State High School League. Students must abide by school rules and guidelines. The competition levels vary, and teams will play a round robin type schedule, with a double elimination tournament to conclude the season.

Advisor(s): Travis Kern
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office / Travis_Kern@rdale.org / 763-504-8739
Season: Basketball - Winter (Dec.- March)
When activity takes place: Monday evenings
Eligibility requirements: Current Armstrong student
Cost or needed equipment: $25 participation fee per player

Math Team

Math Team students compete in statewide math contests developed by college professors. The purpose is to develop mathematics skills, critical thinking and to have fun.

Advisor(s): TBD
Where to go for more info: Math Resource Room 339
Season: Fall - Winter (October - February)
When activity takes place: Monday after school for about one hour and/or one morning before school
Competitions/performances: There are 5 meets, held on Mondays, about once a month.
Eligibility requirements: None
Average number of members: 15-20
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Military Club

Military Club meets weekly to discuss different aspects of military life. Club meetings will discuss military training, fitness, the ASVAB and other military history and customs. Mr. Hakes served five years on active duty in the United States Marine Corps and six years in the Army Reserve. The topics discussed will be based on the needs of the students; military recruiters can be invited to talk with the club.

ahs military club

Advisor(s): Nathan Hakes
Where to go for more info: Room 182 / Nathan_Hakes@Rdale.org / 763-504-8925
Season: Monthly from November - May
When activity takes place: The first Tuesday of each month.
Competitions/performances: None
Eligibility requirements: Juniors and seniors who are academically eligible and an application process.
Average number of members: 6-8
Cost or needed equipment: Students pay for t-shirts – approx. $15
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Mural Club

Mural Club All year (September – June)

In this yearlong club, students will have the opportunity to leave their artistic legacy here at Armstrong High School. Students will plan and create their own murals using whatever supplies that they feel will successfully express their vision.
When activity takes place: Wednesdays after school in 166
Cost: n/a
Requirements: Painting experience
Adviser: Katie Bacon katie_bacon@rdale.or and Leah Dussault leah_dussault@rdale.org
Social Media: Instagram: @Art_At_Armstrong

Muslim Association Group

The student organization will collaborate and get to know each other, providing learning opportunities and support for each other. In addition, participants will explore cultural awareness and social emotional aspects while practicing listening to the dialogues/conversations, sharing experiences/perspectives, and supporting an understanding of ourselves and the world.

Advisor(s): Charles Vickers
Where to go for more info: Room 299/ Charles_Vickers@Rdale.org / 763-504-8722
Season: All year (September - June)
When activity takes place: After school / during school 3:30-4:30
Average number of members: 3 - 8
Eligibility requirements: Interest in learning, exploring, and supporting Muslim culture and beliefs.
Cost: None
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

National Honor Society (NHS)

Participation in service projects is required. Students who are selected participate in individual and group service projects for the betterment of the school and community.

Advisor(s): Katherine Opel
Where to go for more info: Room 339/ Katherine_Opel@Rdale.org / 763-504-8935
Season: All year (September - June)
When activity takes place: Monthly mandatory meetings before school. Activities also take place throughout the year. Induction ceremony in the fall, activities as planned.
Average number of members: Varies - Not all students academically eligible are selected
Eligibility requirements: Selection packets available in late August and due in mid-September. A list of eligible students will be posted in the office when packets are available. Students must be in grades 11 or 12, or in a post-secondary program, in attendance at RAHS for at least one semester; have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.6; return selection information materials by due date. Students are selected based on their service, leadership, scholarship, and character. Transfer students may be eligible but should talk to their counselor in early September. Must be in compliance with District activity policies and the organization’s constitution and by-laws.
Cost: $20 annual dues
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Opera Club

The Opera Club attends weekend performances of the Minnesota Opera at the Ordway Theatre in St. Paul about once a month (five or six performances a season). It also organizes restaurant dinner get-togethers before or after the performances and occasionally organizes meetings/workshops with opera artists. Members provide their own transportation or car pool.

Advisor(s): Mark Mertens
Where to go for more info: Room 234/ Mark_Mertens@Rdale.org / 763-504-8860
Season: November - May
When activity takes place: Weekends
Eligibility requirements: 10th-12th grade, interest in music or theatre
Average number of members: 50
Cost or needed equipment: About $20 per performance
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Relay For Life

Relay For Life is a team fundraising cancer walk event where team members take turns walking around a track. The event is 12 hours in length to signify that cancer never sleeps. There are many fun events that happen all night during the relay. The Relay For Life committee plans all year for the event in May. The event is held at Cooper High School in early May and runs from 6pm to 6am.

When activity takes place: 1st semester meetings every other week and 2nd semester meetings are weekly, after school for meetings, fundraising and some weekends. Event is held the 3rd weekend in May.
Advisor(s): Leah Weisjahn
Where to go for more info: Leah_Weisjahn@Rdale.org / 753-504-8740
Season: All school year (with event held in May)
When activity takes place: 1st semester meetings every other week and 2nd semester meetings are weekly, after school for meetings, fundraising and some weekends
Competitions/performances: Event is held the 3rd weekend in May
Eligibility requirements: Interest and commitment
Average number of members: 6 - 12 members are on the planning committee
Cost or needed equipment: None but time for fundraising is a MUST
Lettering Opportunities: No

Speech Team/Drama

Students on the Speech and Drama Team act and perform in one of 13 different categories as either a single person or two-person group. Categories range from scripted plays, performing portions of a book, poetry, original written scripts and much more. Students prepare a 10-minute script and perform it for a small group of students and a judge ranks student on their performance. Speech and Drama is a MSHSL (Minnesota State High School League) sponsored activity in which students compete at local tournaments and Section Tournaments to qualify for the State or National Tournament. With 13 categories, both serious and humorous, there is a script for every student.

Advisor(s): Richard Brynteson
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities office / rbrynteson@brynteson.info
Season: Spring (March - May)
When activity takes place: After school twice a week (sign up for practice times that work for you)
Competitions/performances: Weekly
Eligibility requirements: Meet MSHSL eligibility requirements
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee
Average number of members: 25
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Student Council

The student council is a student run organization. They are the official communication between students, school staff, and administration. Student concerns are addressed, and new initiatives are implemented. Student activities and service projects are the focus of this group.

Advisor(s): Melody Suos
Where to go for more info: Room 357/ Melody_Suos@Rdale.org / 763-504-8712
Season: All school year
When activity takes place: All year, during Advisory - must be pre registered
Eligibility requirements: Open to all interested students upon accepted applications
Average number of members: Approximately 20
Lettering Opportunities: Yes

Student Media Club

Students produce podcasts, blog posts, Armstrong TV, short films and TED talks. Students and advisers meet weekly to brainstorm ideas and work on production.

Advisor(s): TBD
Where to go for more info: Media Center / 763-504-8812
Season: All school year
When activity takes place: Weekly in the Media Center
Eligibility requirements: Interest and commitment
Average number of members: Unlimited
Cost or needed equipment: $110 participation fee

Table Top Club

Ultimate Frisbee (Boys)

Ultimate Frisbee (Girls)

Weightlifting / Weight Training

The use of Olympic weight training, bodybuilding, cross training, and sport specific programs for the development of muscular body weight, strength, and explosive power and agility in order to improve overall athleticism. Weightlifting is also #1 in injury prevention.

Advisor(s): Brent O'Halloran | brent_ohalloran@rdale.org
Where to go for more info: Athletic/Activities Office
Season: Winter (November 1, 2022 -March 3, 2023) Spring (March 6, 2022 - June 2, 2023 )
When activity takes place: Monday - Thursday, 3:40-5:00 p.m.
Eligibility requirements: None
Cost: $25
Requirements: Must be registered and paid for the season. Lifters must wear the correct athletic attire.

Yearbook

Yearbook All year (September – June)

The yearbook is a student-run publication. Students (our yearbook staffers!) work hard all year to create, design, photograph, write, and promote the yearbook. Each student is held to a high level of accountability and devotes many hours outside the classroom to complete assignments for this amazing publication.
When activity takes place: Tuesdays before and after school in 166.
Cost: n/a
Lettering Opportunities: Participation contributes in to a letter through the Art Department.
Requirements: Yearlong commitment. Attend in-school and afterschool events to interview and take photographs.
Adviser: Katie Bacon, katie_bacon@rdale.org

Youth in Politics

Youth in Politics is where Armstrong students gather to discuss current and past relevant political topics or issues. Students of all political identities, backgrounds, and ideologies are welcome so long as they are respectful of other students and their beliefs. We discuss ways students can get involved with their local government and fight for the issues they care about. Our meetings consist of discussions, respectful debates, and informative sessions. We encourage students to submit topics or issues they would like to learn about or discuss via a google form that can be found on our instagram page. We also organize events for the student body and Robbinsdale community, in the past few years we've held voter drives, movie fundraisers, and a women in government seminar in collaboration with Girls United.
When activity takes place: every other Tuesday in room 258.

Cost: None
Requirements:
Coach: Lynn Tews
More Information: Lynn_Tews@rdale.org
Our instagram page is @ahsyouthinpolitics