Before & After School

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Club Announcements and Updates

Ready to clean your locker? Don't want your HS sneakers any more? Don't throw them away! Any and all unwanted sneakers can be brought to room 142 at the varsity campus and the main office at the FA. Polish Club is still collecting unwanted sneakers: old, new, worn out, ugly, out-of-style, even a single ones, any kind, any style, any size, men's, women's and children's This is a different kind of fundraiser of Polish Club: recycling and reusing unwanted sneakers through GotSneakers.com
GotSneakers proudly serves more than 150,000 individuals and organizations in the U.S. Their FREE sneaker recycling program extends the life of used sneakers through reuse and recycling and offers financial opportunity to those seeking to raise money for any cause. We have already shipped over a hundred of pairs of sneakers!
Contact Ms. Zmyslowski with any questions: gzmyslowski@cps.edu

The ballot for your 2025-2026 Student Government Officers is officially OPEN!
Click the link below to...Review the rolesReview the Candidate ProfilesVOTE!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfYNl3atum0aS3tEotPlz6ejX1gZ3s3k05PWneGJPXdXhSldQ/viewform
Exercise your democratic rights and cast a ballot today! VOTE HERE
Ballot will close NEXT WEDNESDAY!
Contact Ms. Kahn with any questions: hkahn2@cps.edu

Due to the weather, the adoption event is being RELOCATED to Wright Way Rescue (5915 Lincoln Ave, Morton Grove, IL 60053). We're excited to announce that due to the reschedule and relocation, MORE dogs will be available AS WELL AS cats/kittens.
Come out and support TAL and Wright Way Rescue on Wednesday, June 4th from 5pm-7pm by meeting some furry friends and possibly giving them a forever home!
Any questions? Reach out to club sponsor Mr. Antonio Castillo (aacastillo15@cps.edu)

Hey Taft Varsity Staff and Students!
Our final Tropical Tuesday is happening tomorrow and we’re going out with two fan-favorite flavors: Bahama Mama and Mango Magic!
Don’t forget to bring $5 to grab a refreshing smoothie during lunch at the Varsity Campus.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding as we’ve worked to make Tropical Tuesdays a fun and energizing part of the school day.
Let’s finish strong and celebrate the end of testing with a delicious smoothie in hand!
Contact Ms. Miner with any questions: rminer@cps.edu

Taft Drama is proud to invite you to the 2025 Sheldon Showcase, our newly rebranded festival of student-directed one act plays and performance highlights from our classes and clubs. The Showcase runs Wednesday, May 28 through Friday, May 30 in the Varsity Campus Black Box Theater (aka The Drama Lab, aka Room 187). We begin at 6:00 each night and our runtime is about 90 minutes. Tickets are available on a first come, first served basis at the door each night for a suggested donation of $5 for general admission, or $4 for Taft students with IDs.
This year's festival features the work of over 30 students across the entire range of our Drama Performance classes, from Freshman Creativity & Collaboration all the way to IB Theatre Arts, along with Taft's Varsity Singers & Shakespeare Slam team!
Participating students include:Sofia Alvarez Mariana Barraza Alyssa BarrowDanielle (Cas) Bertram Alexander Cisek James CisekAnais Craig Christine Curbis Zackery EvansWilliam Frey Jacqueline Gomez Wren HagenCJ Jacobs Eve Kurzydlo Rosali LocascioElizabeth Mann Jack Matheis Orion MillerNatalia Mroczek Zuzanna Mendus Sophia NichelsonAdrien Noriega-Ortiz Azar Pallasch Ayden PereyraCassem Richter Eli Saenz Jimmy ScarpelliMichael Simic Grace Stempien Samantha TrujilloAngelina Trzaskowski Oliver Vicens Sophie Wesoloskie
We hope to see you there to help us celebrate another great year of Taft Drama!
Contact Mr. Cohen with any questions: jmcohen1@cps.edu

The Student Voice Committee wants to hear from you! Fill out this survey and let us know what's on your mind. This will help us focus our attention on issues YOU care about.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSct_cmFMZ7pzC5kLAkMCHpAA-w4LlIXvfddJuZU1ToRXscCnQ/viewform
Contact Ms. Williams with any questions: vlstuart@cps.edu
Let's help Taft SOAR!

Celebrate the end of the school year at Red Robin (by the HIP) and help support Taft Drama! On June 10, dine in or order food to go from the Red Robin on Harlem all day, mention that you're there for Taft Drama, and they will donate 20% of your food purchases in support of our drama program. Please see the attached flyer for more details.
Taft Drama presents 3-4 mainstage productions each year in addition to our annual Sheldon Showcase (formerly the student-directed one-act festival), which will be held May 28-30 in the Taft Black Box Theatre (VC 187). In addition, Taft Drama regularly participates in the Illinois High School Theatre Festival and the Chicago Youth Theatre Festival.
Please contact lead club sponsor Bryan Wilson (btwilson2@cps.edu) with any questions.

Student Government Elections are right around the corner!!
Interested in making an impact at Taft? Want to help organize and plan school events and activities? Apply for a role in Student Government!
Application link: Apply Here!
Roles and Responsibilities: Find out More Here...
**Must meet all eligibility requirements-- grades, attendance/tardies, and misconducts will be checked
Reach out to Ms. Kahn for questions hkahn2@cps.edu

We’re excited to announce that tryouts for the Taft Varsity Poms Football Halftime Performance Team will take place May 27–30, 2025 at the Varsity Campus (6530 W Bryn Mawr Ave).
Clinic Dates:May 27 & 28Attendance at both clinic days is required to be eligible to try out. Dancers will learn both a Pom and a Hip Hop routine, as well as technique that will be used during the official tryout.Tryout Dates:May 29 (Early tryouts available)May 30 (Official tryouts – dancers will perform in small groups of 2–3)⏰ Check-In Time: 3:15–3:45 PMInstruction will begin closer to 4:00 PM each day.Early tryouts on May 29 typically begin around 4:30–5:00 PM.
✅ Next Steps:Please complete the Interest Form: https://forms.gle/MejFWAfdDWx1frpaA

The Blue Eagle Bash @ Chicago Dogs is almost here—and we can’t wait to see you at Impact Field this Wednesday, May 14 at 6:30 PM for a night of baseball, music, and Taft spirit!
Taft Band will perform live on the fieldWear your Taft blue and represent!Use code THSB to grab your tickets here: Blue Eagle Bash TicketsLocation: 9850 Balmoral Ave, Rosemont, IL
This community night is brought to you by Friends of Taft and the Taft Band Boosters—a perfect way to celebrate spring, connect with fellow Eagle families, and cheer on the Chicago Dogs together.
Let’s fill the stands with Eagle pride!
Got questions?Email: friendsoftafths@gmail.com or Mrs. Miner rminer@cps.edu

Get ready—Tropical Tuesday is back TOMORROW at the Varsity Campus, and we’ve got the winning smoothie flavors ready to roll!
Sunrise Sunset & Bahama Mama
Both will be available for just $5 each, thanks to our friends at Tropical Smoothie Café and your very own votes!When: Tuesday during lunch periodsWhere: Varsity Campus CafeteriaCost: $5 per smoothie – cash or card acceptedDon’t forget to bring your $5 and your tropical energy! Let’s make testing season a little sweeter, one sip at a time.
Contact Ms. Miner with any questions: rminer@cps.edu

Join us on March 20th in the Varsity Campus lunch room during all lunch periods to purchase a delicious pączek while supplies last!
What is a pączek? A pączek (plural: pączki) is a traditional Polish pastry—light, fluffy, and filled with sweet jam or custard, then topped with powdered sugar or glaze. These treats are especially popular before Lent as a way to indulge before fasting!
Don’t miss out—stop by and support Polish Club while enjoying this tasty tradition!
Contact Ms. Niedziela with any questions: mniedziela@cps.edu

Taft eSports is hosting an informational meeting this Thursday, March 20th, in Room 139 at Taft Varsity Campus at 4 PM for the IHSA season. If you or someone you know is interested and available Saturdays April 26th and May 3rd, have them fill out the form below.
https://forms.gle/vTf7JbJRfqopoBme9
We're hosting tryouts for the following titles and games:Mario Kart 8 Deluxe(4v4)Super Smash Brothers Ultimate SolosSuper Smash Brothers Ultimate Crew Battle (5)EA Sports FC(PS5)Rocket League (3)eSports is an official IHSA activity. If you are in any other IHSA sport, then check with your coach to ensure there is no conflicting schedule.
Contact Coach Nguyen with any questions: hanguyen2@cps.edu

The Model UN team did well to represent Taft at the 37th annual University of Chicago Model UN conference this past weekend, helping to devise very inventive solutions to a range of ongoing global issues with over 3,000 other students from around the world.
A special congratulations to Sophia Copeland and Daniel Boyke for winning a speaker's award for their work on the DISEC committee.
Anyone who's interested in participating in future Model UN conferences can reach out to club president, Jack Matheis - jamatheis@cps.edu or club advisor Mr. Weldon - ajweldon@cps.edu for more info.

We want to congratulate the Taft Girls bowling team on being crowned regional champions making it back to back championships for these amazing ladies. They now go to the Sectionals this coming Saturday at Bowlero Lyons 7700 47th St, Lyons, IL 60534 to try to make it to state as a team. These are the ladies trying to go to State wish them luck.
Allison Rutkowski (SO)Alanna Pena(SR)Alexis Mundt(SO)Alivia DeMarrias(SO)Allison Mundt(SR)Concetta Santos(SO)Mia Felix(JR)Mikayla Hallihan(FR)Yuliana Corona(FR)

Taft Varsity Chess will compete at the IHSA State Chess tournament this Friday and Saturday. Taft is seeded 39th for the tournament, which is the highest seeding the team has ever had at the state tournament.
If you see the team members this week, wish them luck: Tate Daniels, Jon Rueda, Morgan Demarrias, Luis Melendez, George Eberlin, Jason Evans, Andrew Garcis, Alex Smolovic, Nicolas Corona, and Daniel Perez.
Contact Coach O'Shaugnessy with any questions: jposhaughnessy@cps.edu

CABARET 2025 is here! Cabaret is a night showcasing the best musical talent Taft has to offer! The show will take place on February 6th, but auditions will be Tuesday, January 28th & Wednesday, January 29th!
To sign up for an audition please fill out this Google Form AND also select a slot on this Google Calendar.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdnFx3f7in7tCbMhGLczwcDH2APq1R60eOSHlUWeAEN0qbu5g/viewform
https://calendar.google.com/calendar/u/0/appointments/schedules/AcZssZ2KPXTpAGppptRGap-y80PPrMyn6j-pzKpkfd9phRoP8eZAMqmpUBYq1ppCO9kewpF1TPbtvRLt
AUDITION INFORMATIONEach performer will be limited to 1 solo number and up to 2 group numbers (meaning you can audition in up to 3 numbers, only one being a solo)Please fill out a separate form for each musical number.You will have 90 seconds for your audition. Please choose your 90 second cut before you enter the room.Auditions will take place in the Varsity Campus Choir Room (173)We are looking for all types of musical talent - not just singing!You must provide your own accompaniment. That can be live instrument or karaoke track.We place high value on memorization and preparedness.See the flyer (attached) for more information and please reach out to Ms. Jones at lajones19@cps.edu if you have any questions!

Black Student Union (BSU) will be hosting a Holiday Candy Gram Sale! Spread the holiday spirit by sending a friend a sweet treat before Winter Break!
BSU Club Members will be present during lunch periods (at the VC) starting on Tuesday, 12/17, so be ready to place your orders!
Pricing (all candy gram deliveries will come with an optional personalized note!)Candy Cane - $2Hot Chocolate - $5Candy Cane + Hot Chocolate Combo - $6
Contact Ms. Grullon with any questions: vgrullon2@cps.edu

Best Buddies will be meeting on Tuesday from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. to celebrate the holiday season. The club will meet at our usual spot: Room 111 at TFA. All are welcome! See you then...
Contact Mr. Schwartz at aschwartz7@cps.edu for more info.

The Student Voice Committee is proud to announce that mirrors have been reinstalled in our student bathrooms at the Varsity Campus! It is our responsibility as students to take care of these mirrors and our bathrooms to create a better environment for ourselves. Therefore, if you SEE SOMETHING, then SAY SOMETHING so we can fix any issues. Let's make sure we show our school community that we can be responsible in the bathrooms.
Contact Ms. Williams with any questions: vlstuart@cps.edu
Sincerely,
the Student Voice Committee

Taft Band Boosters proudly present the Winter Jazz Concert on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, in the Taft Varsity Campus Assembly Hall (Door 6).
Doors will open at 6:00pm and the performances will begin at 6:30pm featuring our Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Lab, and Latin Music Ensemble!
Be sure to support our snack table including hot cocoa throughout the concert.
General admission is $5 at the door.
Current Taft Band Boosters can use our new FastPass feature to walk straight in, buy some munchies and cocoa, and pick your favorite seat for the show!
Contact Mr. Salyers with any questions: dsalyers@cps.edu

Taft Varsity Chess ended the four rounds at the Bolingbrook Raiders Invitational in 6th place beating out many top competitors. The team was lead by Andrew Garcia, who went 4 for 4 on Board 8. Tate Daniels also had a great day on Board 1 by taking 3 of the 4 games, followed by Jon Rueda and Luis Melendez with 2.5 games each.
The team now takes a break until the Naperville tournament in January.
The team practices on Tuesdays and Wednesdays after school in room VC 310.
Contact Coach O'Shaughnessy with any questions: jposhaughnessy@cps.edu

Looking for a way to give back this holiday season? Help support animals by donating to local animals shelters.
Taft Animal League will be hosting another donation drive to help out shelters in need for the holiday season. We are taking any unopened and unused goods and items for dogs and cats. (items listed on the flyer). Donations can be brought to a collection bin near door 1 on the Varsity Campus. Items can be brought from December 9th-13th at any time of the day. Additionally, there will be a raffle: for every item donated, you will be entered into a raffle for a prize!
Taft Animal League will be hosting their annual Winter Donation Drive the week of December 9th - December 13th. We are seeking any and all new or unused donations (see attached flyer). If you wish to be entered into our raffle to win a prize for your donations, please make sure your name and CPS email are on your donations when you drop them off.
Thanks in advance! If you have questions, please contact president Xela Chamorro (xlchamorro@cps.edu) or club sponsor Mr. Castillo (aacastillo15@cps.edu)

Please join December 19th after school at our Varsity Campus from 3:30-5:30 for our first annual Cultural Holiday Celebration and Market Fair. Play games, try tasty cultural fare, and purchase holiday crafts and wear from Taft Clubs. All are welcome.

Polish Club is collecting unwanted sneakers: bring old, new, worn out, ugly, out-of-style, even a single ones, any kind, any style, any size, men's, women's and children's to room 142. This is a different kind of fundraiser of Polish Club: recycling and reusing unwanted sneakers through GotSneakers.com
GotSneakers proudly serves more than 150,000 individuals and organizations in the U.S. Their FREE sneaker recycling program extends the life of used sneakers through reuse and recycling and offers financial opportunity to those seeking to raise money for any cause.
Contact Ms. Zmyslowski with any questions: gzmyslowski@cps.edu

Taft Band Boosters invite you to attend the Winter Band Concert on Tuesday, December 10, 2024, in the Taft Varsity Campus Assembly Hall (Door 6). Doors will open at 6:00pm and the performances will begin at 6:30pm featuring the Wind Ensemble and our Beginning Bands!
Come early to buy one of the limited-edition tee shirts featuring the new Taft Band Boosters logo! Be sure to support the bake sale and concessions including hot cocoa available throughout the concert.
Current Taft Band Boosters can also use our new FastPass feature to walk straight in, buy some swag and a snack, and pick your favorite seat for the show!
General Admission is $5 at the door!
Questions? Email: tafteaglesbandboosters@gmail.com or dsalyers@cps.edu

Monday 12/9 Crochet for Cause Club!!!
Have you ever wanted to learn how to crochet? Or do you know how to crochet and want to meet others with the same interest? Join Crochet for Cause Club!
A club where our crafts will benefit the community and help students learn new skills. We will meet Monday 12/9 at Taft Varsity Campus in the nest.
Materials will be provided and anyone is welcome to join!!
If you have any questions email Xela Chamorro who is the president at xlchamorro@cps.edu or the sponsor Mr. Siegel cjsiegel@cps.edu
Google Classroom code k4dhhoa

Taft Drama is looking for people who like doing theatre but aren't as interested in the performance side of things. You know, the people who make the magic happen! We're looking for people who want to learn tech theatre skills like lights & sound as well stage management basics.
The Behind the Scenes Team will have its first official meeting on Friday, Dec. 6, in VC room 320 from 3:30-4:30. Students at both campuses are invited to attend. Going forward, meetings will alternate between Mondays and Fridays each week.
For more information, please reach out to club presidents Jacqueline Gomez (jgomez167@cps.edu) and Jaden Langcauon (jmlangcauon@cps.edu).

Attention students!
If you would like to audition to perform in International Day, the deadline to sign up for auditions is this Friday (11/22).
Sign up here: https://forms.gle/55HTm17r6uKxV5JF7
Auditions will be held on Wednesday, Dec 4 in the auditorium at 3:30. I-Day/I-Night performances are on Friday, February 21.
Reach out to Ms. Carrico (ejcarrico@cps.edu) with any questions!

Please join us in congratulating our Super Smash Brothers Ultimate Duo team who defeated every other school in the district this past weekend to be our CPS district wide 2024 SSBU Duos champions. Not only did Mark Yolangco(Sr.) and Samuel Soto(Sr.) defeat last year's champions, but they had to defeat Lane Tech twice after technical issues rose out of their first match, leaving no doubt that they are the best duo in the district.
Go Eagles!
Contact Coach Nguyen with any questions: hanguyen2@cps.edu

Looking for something to start your day? Something to drink with your meal? Taft's Vietnamese Club will be selling Vietnamese Coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) and Boba Milk Tea (Classic & Thai Tea) in the Varsity Campus cafeteria from periods 3-7 for $6 each on Friday, November 22nd.

The Taft courtyard needs a good cleanup, and I need some students to help with it. Come join the Courtyard Conservation Crew on Tuesday the 12th. If you want to come clean up the courtyard meet in room 316 right after school on Tuesday. Be prepared to go outside to clean up some garbage and pick weeds.
If you have any questions email the president Lydia Miner at lminer1@cps.edu or the sponsor Mr. Morrissey at mmorrissey@cps.edu

Best Buddies will be meeting on Tuesday from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. The club will meet at our usual spot: Room 111 at TFA. We will be playing board games. Feel free to bring your favorite board game to share with others. Otherwise, we will have several to choose from.
Contact Mr. Schwartz at aschwartz7@cps.edu for more info.

The Literary Magazine is now accepting submissions. Students and staff can submit writing pieces to be published in the Writing Center's very own "Eagle Ink." Simply submit your work and sign up for a brief visit to the Writing Center using this Google Form.
Contact Ms. Glickman or Ms. Trivedi with any questions: aglickman1@cps.eduttrivedi@cps.edu
Thanks,
Ms. Glickman, Ms. Trivedi, and the Writing Center

Looking for a sweet treat to start your morning? Stop by The Nest near Door 1 before school to support a good cause!
Taft Animal League will be selling Krispy Kreme donuts on Nov 6, Nov 13, and Nov 20 from 7:00am to 7:40am. Donuts are $2 or you can purchase a whole dozen for $15. Cash only! (no coins).Any questions? Please reach out to club sponsor Mr. Castillo (aacastillo15@cps.edu)

In just seven days, the first production to use the proscenium stage in the TFA Gymnatorium will begin its run! Taft Drama presents She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition Nov. 7-9 in the Gymnatorium. Come experience this sight and sound spectacular and support the students who are doing great work. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students. For tickets, please go to https://tafths.booktix.com/dept/Drama; it will be cash only at the box office, which will open outside the gymnatorium 1 hour prior to the scheduled start time. All guests should use the main entrance at TFA to enter the building and be respectful of our neighbors when parking along Normandy.
For questions about tickets and the Taft Drama season, please contact Bryan Wilson at btwilson2@cps.edu.She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition, by Qui NguyenNov. 7-9, 2024 at 6 p.m.Nov. 9, 2024 at 2 p.m.Taft Freshman Academy GymnatoriumDirected by Caitlin Graham
She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and ’90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.
For tickets, please go to https://tafths.booktix.com/dept/Drama.
She Kills Monsters is the second production of the 2024-25 Taft Drama Season.

Día de los Muertos "Pan de Muerto" Sale ️
Friday, Nov. 1st, during lunch in the cafeteria, join us in celebrating Día de los Muertos with a special Pan de Muerto sale! Each piece is only $2.
What is Día de los Muertos?Día de los Muertos, or "Day of the Dead," is a Mexican holiday where families honor the memory of loved ones who have passed. It’s a vibrant celebration, filled with love, remembrance, and the belief that those we’ve lost are with us in spirit.
What is Pan de Muerto?Pan de Muerto, or "Bread of the Dead," is a traditional, slightly sweet bread that is often shared with family and friends as part of the celebration. The bread's unique shape and decorations represent the cycle of life and the traditions that bring us together to remember those we've lost.
Come by, grab some delicious Pan de Muerto, and join us in this beautiful tradition!

Join us in Room 101 this Thursday at 3 p.m. for our Pride Alliance Halloween Party! The goal is to meet other students who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community at Taft along with allies. There will be snacks, but feel free to bring treats if you want to add to the feast!
We will also discuss the direction we want the club to go in, as this will be our first meeting of the year at Varsity Campus.
Contact Ms. O'Neill with any questions: goneill1@cps.edu

Taft's Hope for the Homeless and Helping Hands are co-hosting a canned food drive ending November 15th. All donations will go directly to New Hope Food Pantry which is an organization in Chicago that provides food to those in need.
We are looking for a few things in particular :Breakfast cerealCanned soups/chiliCrackersOatmealPackaged pasta and ricePancake mix & syrupCanned fruit/Pumpkin PureeBaking goods (flour, sugar, frosting, baking soda/powder, cake & cookie mixes)Dry stuffing mixWant to donate? Boxes will be located at the main entrance of varsity and TFA (door 1) as well as social studies rooms at VC. We appreciate all donations.
Questions? Please contact Hope for the Homeless sponsor Ms. Niese at aniese@cps.edu or Helping Hands sponsor Mr. Plencner at smplencner@cps.edu

Taft's Literary Magazine, Eagle Ink, is still accepting submissions for this semester's edition. Students and staff members who are interested in publishing their work (poetry, short stories, artwork, etc.) must fill out this form and make an appointment at the Writing Center by Monday, 11/11.
https://www.google.com/url?q=https://url.usb.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/wcq-CnGWJYtEB8J1u9fnFJV9Oi?domain%3Dforms.gle&source=gmail&ust=1730467074823000&usg=AOvVaw2Hjm51fqHgt9rf4cBasQZJ
Thanks,
Ms. Trivedi (ttrivedi@cps.edu) and Ms. Glickman (aglickman1@cps.edu)

Taft's Literary Magazine, Eagle Ink, is now accepting submissions for this semester's edition. Students and staff members who are interested in publishing their work (poetry, short stories, artwork, etc.) should fill out this form and make an appointment at the Writing Center by Monday, 11/11.
Form Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1BSER7Mj4-AIXUikp2ehUq5PvmNCJigtbUNuD2RnWnVE/viewform?edit_requested=true
Thanks,
Ms. Glickman (aglickman1@cps.edu) and Ms. Trivedi (ttrivedi@cps.edu)

LIZZIE tells the story of infamous alleged axe murderer Lizzie Borden as we journey with her through her tumultuous relationships, her breaking point, the bloody crime, and the trial of the century that ensued after! This isn't your typical musical - it's a punk retelling of her story with a live rock band! It's a bloody good time!
If you crave an even more interactive experience, we are selling SPLASH ZONE seating! These seats will include a branded poncho and an experience you'll never forget!
The show runs in Taft's Black Box theater (VC room 187) Wednesday October 23rd, Thursday October 24th, and Friday October 25th at 6:00 and a matinee performance on Saturday, October 26th at 2:00 pm!
Tickets are $5 or $4 with a student ID. SPLASH ZONE seats are an additional $5! Tickets will be sold at the door.
This show contains very mature themes and we STRONGLY recommend audiences be aged 12 and up.
Please email Ms. Jones (lajones19@cps.edu) or Mr. Cohen (jmcohen1@cps.edu) with any questions or concerns!

Please join us TODAY, Wednesday October 9th from 5pm-8pm at Blaze Pizza at 5712 W Touhy Ave. Niles, IL.
20% of all proceeds will go to supporting students who are going on our Taft Inauguration Trip this January. For online orders at this location, use the code 1088A. If you order between 5pm and 8 pm tomorrow online using this code, we will still get the proceeds.Please mention our fundraiser at check out to ensure we receive the proceeds!
Contact Ms. Cozariuc with any questions: acozariuc1@cps.edu

Ukrainian Club is meeting on Thursday 10/10 in room 251A (VC) after school. Join us at 3:05 to get some information about the club and activities !
We also wanted to mention that there are leadership positions we are looking to fill. More details will be available at meeting!
Feel free to stop by, bring your friends.
Have questions? Please contact sponsor Ms. Drabyk sdrabyk@cps.edu

Join Thrifting Club's first meeting TUESDAY 10/8 after school in room 206 @ Varsity Campus.
Bring your favorite thrifted item to share with everyone :]
Email Ms. Jenson with any questions: fejenson@cps.edu
Classroom Invite Link: https://classroom.google.com/c/NzE4NTYwMjQ1NzIx?cjc=bjlz54t

Tickets are now on sales for the first production to use the proscenium stage in the TFA Gymnatorium! Taft Drama presents She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition Nov. 7-9 in the Gymnatorium. Come experience this sight and sound spectacular and support the students who are doing great work. Best part of all, staff members can get one (1) complimentary ticket to see the performance by using promo code STAFFSKM24 at our ticketing website (https://tafths.booktix.com/dept/Drama); otherwise, tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.
Do you have a student involved in the show? Here is the list of participants (as of this announcement):
CastAnais Leeloo Antonson, Alyssa Barrow, Danielle (Cas) Bertram, Jordan Booth, Theodore DeSalvo, Zackery Evans, William Frey, Wren Hagen, Alexy Jimenez, Ana-Stacia Johnson, Eve Kurzdlo, Orion Miller, Jonah Newton, Azar Pallasch, Elle Schultz, Madison Seymour, Haven Taylor, and Jacob Weisgram
CrewAudrey Antonson, Gregory Ares, Keira Keeney, Kathleen Lah, Jaden Langcauon, Chris Lavorini, Emma Loane, Avery Merideth, Leilani Navarro, Gianna Ratliff, Charlotte Sharp, and Julissa Vallejo
For questions about tickets and the Taft Drama season, please contact Bryan Wilson at btwilson2@cps.edu.***She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition by Qui NguyenNov. 7-9, 2024 at 6 p.m. Nov. 9, 2024 at 2 p.m.Taft Freshman Academy GymnatoriumDirected by Caitlin Graham
She Kills Monsters: Young Adventurers Edition tells the story of high schooler Agnes Evans as she deals with the death of her younger sister, Tilly. When Agnes stumbles upon Tilly’s Dungeons & Dragons notebook, she finds herself catapulted into a journey of discovery and action-packed adventure in the imaginary world that was her sister’s refuge. In this high-octane dramatic comedy laden with homicidal fairies, nasty ogres, and ’90s pop culture, acclaimed playwright Qui Nguyen offers a heart-pounding homage to the geek and warrior within us all.
For tickets, please go to https://tafths.booktix.com/dept/Drama.
She Kills Monsters is the second production of the 2024-25 Taft Drama Season. First is the upcoming production of LIZZIE, a rock musical about Lizzie Borden which runs Oct. 23-26 in the Taft Black Box Theatre. Tickets for Lizzie will only be sold at the door.

Save the Date for International Night on Friday, February 21 2025! International Night is an annual performance showcasing the many cultures represented here at Taft through music, dance and other talents. All clubs and individual performers are welcome to try out!
Reach out to Ms. Carrico (ejcarrico@cps.edu) for audition information and other details.

Come join us for our second meeting of Taft Animal League where we will be making dog toys to donate!
We will meet at 3-4pm in room 303. Join our google classroom for more details about the club if you are interested. Code: ltpnndt
Contact Mr. Castillo with any questions: aacastillo15@cps.edu

Are you a Dreamer, first-generation student, or new to the U.S.? Or maybe you’re an ally who wants to learn more and support your peers? We invite YOU to join the Dreamers Without Borders Alliance Club!
Our club is a welcoming space where students from diverse backgrounds come together to share experiences, offer support, and build friendships. We focus on helping students navigate school life, the college application process, and adjust to a new environment. Whether you're looking for a community to connect with or resources to help with your future, this is the place for you!
First Meeting is this WEDNESDAY, Oct, 2.Meetings: Wednesdays at 3pm (on regular bell days)Location: 239B Varsity Campus
Together, we can grow, learn, and make a difference!
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to Ms. Arjona (crosales25@cps.edu) or Mr. De Col Wrooman (fdecolwroom@cps.edu)
We hope to see you there!

Best Buddies is a club that fosters friendships between students with and without disabilities. Its goal is to spread awareness and create an inclusive setting for all. Join us for our next meeting on Tuesday, October 1st from 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. at TFA (Room 111). We will be engaging in team building activities as well as voting on leadership positions. All are welcome!
Contact Mr. Schwartz (aschwartz7@cps.edu) with any questions.

AP Gov Club is a club for students currently enrolled in AP US Government & Politics and want a space to make friends, enrich your understanding of course material, and better understand class concepts. AP Gov Club will include activities, films, and study sessions to help you expand your knowledge and feel confident in class. Former AP Government students serve as leaders to mentor and provide support!
Join AP Gov club by attending the first meeting at 3:45pm at the TFA on October 2nd (a Wednesday).
If you have questions, please reach out to Ms. Niese (aniese@cps.edu)
We hope to see you at APGov Club!

Taft Varsity Chess will begin meeting on Tuesday, October 1 after school (3 pm) in room VC 310. Head Coach Wilson is back for another season. A former Taft student, Coach Wilson is a former member of the Harvard Chess team, and is a highly rated US Chess Federation player.
Even if you are not a great chess player, Coach Wilson will help you improve, so come out for the Taft Chess team on Tuesday, 10/1.
Contact Coach O'Shaughnessy with any questions: JPOshaughnessy@cps.edu

Learn how to dance with a partner!Want to learn how to dance and be the one tearing up the dance floor at weddings/parties?
Join Ballroom Dance Club!
We will have a choice between Latin dances (like Samba, Cha Cha, Swing) and Standard ballroom dances (like Slow Waltz, Viennese Waltz, Tango) for the dance showcase. We may also decide to learn social dances and tricks, like cool dips and spins!!!(We can vote which dance(s) we want to learn as a club.)
We will probably meet Tuesdays 3pm-4pm at Varsity Campus.
If you do not have a partner, don't worry! Please join us and we will rotate partners or find you a partner!
With any questions, please contact Ms. Starzycka at jdstarzycka1@cps.edu
SPREAD THE WORD!
Sign up to be on the email list & stay informed about when and where the first meeting will be!
Fill out the interest form below:

Black Student Union (BSU) will be held on Thursday, September 26, at the VARSITY Campus in RM 183 (Ceramic Room) from 3:10 PM to 4:30PM.
Black Student Union is a space meant to strengthen the community of students within the black diaspora, as well as, make connections with the broader Taft community through school engagement events.
Everyone is welcome!
For more information, feel free to contact:Mouye Diallo (Club President): mdiallo11@cps.eduMs. Haynes (Club Sponsor): rhaynes13@cps.eduWe hope to see you there!

Kyrgyz Club will meet on Thursday, September 19 at Varsity Campus in room 153 from 3 to 4 p.m.
Do you want to learn about Kyrgyz Culture and meet students from many countries around the World? Come to our first meeting! We welcome all students!
Google Classroom code: p3svr5d
Contact Ms. Stasica with any questions: sstasica@cps.edu

Are you interested in learning design? Programming? building?
Want to be a part of a competition team that builds a 150 pound robot that competes against teams from all over the world?
Come check out the Taft Robotics Team, the mechanical mustaches. Our new member meeting will be this Thursday 9/26 in room 190 on the Varsity campus. No experience required just an interest to learn and expand your skills.
Presentation will be right after school and should take about an hour
Contact Mr. Schmidt (amschmidt2@cps.edu) room 190 with more questions.

Art Club is back!!
Join us at 3:15 PM this Wednesday, September 25th, in Room 183 at the Varsity Campus. Art Club is open to all student who are are looking for community, interested to making cool things, or just love art!
Please contact Ms. Haynes (RHaynes13@cps.edu) or Ms. Jenson (fejenson@cps.edu)

Attention all Taft Eagles!
The first meeting of the Association of Latin American Students (ALAS) will be held tomorrow, September 24, at the VARSITY Campus in room 239B from 3:00 PM to 4:00 PM.
ALAS is a space for Latin American students to connect, share experiences, and for allies to learn more about Latin American culture.
Everyone is welcome!
For more information, feel free to contact:Alison Salinas (Club President): asalinas29@cps.eduMs. Arjona (Club Sponsor): crosales25@cps.eduWe hope to see you there! Nos vemos!

Pride Alliance is back at Taft Freshman Academy! Pride Alliance is a supportive, inclusive space for LGBTQIA+ students and allies. Students in Pride Alliance support one another and advocate for social justice within the school and larger community.
We check in with one another, discuss current events, plan future events, listen to music, and do crafts! Pride Alliance meets every Thursday at TFA, starting September 19th, from 3:00-4:00pm in room 206!
Please contact Ms. Phipps at bjphipps@cps.edu or Ms. Powitz at dipowitz@cps.edu if you have any questions about Pride Alliance at the Freshman campus. If you are interested in Pride Alliance at the Varsity campus, please direct your questions to Ms. O'Neill at goneill@cps.edu.

Eagles -
Best Buddies will begin soon at Taft Freshman Academy (TFA)! It’s a club that fosters friendships between students with and without disabilities. Its goal is to spread awareness and create an inclusive setting for all.
Join us for our first meeting on Tuesday, September 17th at 3:00 p.m. We will be meeting in Room 103(O). Leadership opportunities are available!
Contact Mr. Schwartz (aschwartz7@cps.edu) with any questions.

Calling all AP Government students!
Join AP Gov Club to get help, review for the AP exam, and enrich your understanding of American government and politics! This club meets weekly beginning Wednesday, October 2nd in room 109 of the TFA. We will meet 3:45-4:45pm. Any current AP Government student is welcome! Students who have taken the course before will serve as leaders of the club to take your questions, present activities, and help you with your tasks for class!
If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Ms. Niese at aniese@cps.edu.

Need help with school work?
The Taft Tutoring Center will be open starting next week (September 16th). Come visit us to work on homework, get help on assignments, study for tests, make-up exams, and more.
VC CafeteriaMondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays3:15pm - 4:15pm
Drop-in or schedule an appointment using our website:https://sites.google.com/cps.edu/tafttutoringcenter/home
We hope to see you there!

Looking for Writing Center Tutors!
If you think you'd be a good fit as a Writing tutor, please fill out the following application by Tuesday, September 17th:
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeDWuhKoC3izzMLObfF9HOu3AgkZVYOye74HTwVZo5eBgq4WQ/viewform
This is a great way for students to get to know other students, and to collaborate over their passion for writing. It can also serve as a valuable addition to their future college applications.
Our hours are Tuesday and Thursday from 3:15 - 4:15pm after school in room 196.
If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out.
Tanya Trivedi: ttrivedi@cps.eduAbigail Glickman: aglickman1@cps.edu

The Tenor-Bass Association (T.B.A.) is looking for singers for this school year. If you are looking for a safe place to develop your voice within a vocal ensemble, and you like pizza, T.B.A. is the place for you! Click for details...
Our first meeting of the year will be on Monday, September 9th after school until 4:30pm in the Varsity Campus Choir Room (173).
T.B.A. is open to any and all Taft students from either campus with the ability to sing in the tenor and/or bass vocal ranges. New members are always welcome. We hope to see you there!
Contact Mr. Platakis (pjplatakis@cps.edu) for more information.
Google Classroom Code: pvw4gujGoogle Classroom Invite Link: Click Here

Taft Tutoring Center

Get Academic Support at our Taft Tutoring Center!

Need help with school work?
Schedule an in-person visit or meet online at our
Taft Tutoring Center!VC Cafeteria - Tuesdays and Thursdays 3:15pm - 4:15pm
Website: https://sites.google.com/cps.edu/tafttutoringcenter/home

Connect and Unite at Taft High School!

Are you a new student, transfer student, or a student who wants to connect socially to a group at Taft High School?

Then join Connect and Unite club! The goal of our club is to build relationships and get students involved in sports and clubs that interest them. Our mission is to build a community within the school and create new friendships among students.

Want to add an announcement for your club or team?

Please email rnalley@cps.edu with the subject line "Club/Sport Announcement" and in the message include any picture(s), text, and the date you would like the announcement posted. Thank you!

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