Three years ago, several students approached me and asked if I would sponsor a video game club at our high school.  Well, I have to say that I was somewhat reluctant at first.  For one thing, as I have aged, I have not been too involved in playing video games.  And, as a classroom teacher…in a room full of computers…I had gotten very frustrated with my “game freaks” who wanted to play computer games instead of listen to my instruction.  I do remember the days, however, when I rushed in the house after getting off of the bus to play Frogger, PacMan, and Asteroids…gosh, those were the days!  So, with an open mind (and permission from the principal!), I tried to think about the ”passion” that this select group of young people had for their activity of choice and I agreed. 

 The club now has over 25 active members and meets almost every Thursday afternoon in the Media Center for an hour and a half.  The members bring their own gaming systems and games.  Club officers are in charge of setting up and planning the meetings.  They develop agendas for the meetings that consist of ideas and discussions regarding things such as new and improved game systems, upcoming “game festivals” and tips for writing stories for games.  After the agenda items are addressed, the students are free to play their games.  They play everything from baseball to Mario to DDR (Dance Dance Revolution) to Guitar Hero.  And, yes, I even allow them to play Halo sometimes. 

 The adults who enter the Media Center on a Thursday afternoon sometimes question my sanity.  I certainly understand the skepticism, but I also believe that my committment may be making a difference in someone’s life.  I’ve seen many students get involved who might otherwise go through four years of high school without joining any extra-curricular activities.  Some of the members “appear” to be somewhat withdrawn, but, believe me…they come alive when they start talking “game stuff.”  I’ve seen students make new friends who may otherwise be sitting alone during lunch.  Our school has even listed the Video Game Club in the School Improvement Plan as a means for providing activities that reach diverse populations. 

So, overall, I believe that the VGC has been a success.  I must say, that I tried to make a little glass of lemonade three years ago with those lemons who were standing in my doorway with unkempt hair and big brown begging eyes.  Any thoughts of your own?