One of the biggest questions families often ask about online high school is how students can stay socially and academically engaged outside of class. At Wisconsin Virtual Learning (WVL), extracurricular opportunities are a central part of the student experience. Your child has access to some of the best extracurricular activities for high school students in Wisconsin, including clubs, enrichment programs, and in-person outings that support growth both inside and outside the classroom.
Why Extracurriculars Matter for Online Students
High school is about more than grades. Extracurricular activities give your student the chance to discover new passions, develop leadership skills, and connect with other students who share their interests. These opportunities help strengthen college applications, sure; but they also build confidence and provide healthy outlets for creativity and teamwork.
For virtual learners, participating in extracurriculars ensures they stay connected to a community of classmates while enjoying the same benefits as students in traditional schools.
The Best Extracurricular Activities for High School Students at WVL
WVL offers a wide range of clubs so your student can find the activity that inspires them most. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Student Council: A leadership opportunity where students represent their peers, plan initiatives, and help shape school culture.
- Creative Writing Club: A supportive space to practice storytelling, experiment with different writing styles, and share original work.
- Art Club: Encourages students to express themselves visually through individual projects and collaborative activities.
- Origami Club: A creative club that combines focus, patience, and artistry while building connections with peers.
- Music Club: Provides a platform for students to explore musical interests and share performances in a virtual setting.
- E-Sports Team (WIHESA): Competitive gaming that develops teamwork, problem-solving, and strategy while representing WVL in statewide competitions.
- National Honor Society (NHS): Students who qualify can apply for membership in WVL’s chapter of NHS, a nationally recognized program focused on scholarship, leadership, service, and character.
Every club has a faculty sponsor to guide activities and create a welcoming environment. These groups meet virtually on a regular schedule, giving students consistent opportunities for connection.
Opportunities Beyond the Screen
There are so many benefits to virtual learning, but it’s also true that some of the most memorable high school experiences happen when students meet face-to-face. That’s why WVL also offers in-person outings and social opportunities across Wisconsin. These events give your child the chance to build friendships, participate in hands-on experiences, and feel part of a larger community.
Whether it’s a field trip, a regional gathering, or a school-wide event, these opportunities help create balance by combining online learning with real-world interaction.
Helping Your Student Get Involved
As a parent or caregiver to a virtual student, you play a crucial role in helping your child feel encouraged and confident about participating in clubs and activities built around things they already enjoy. If your student isn’t quite sure where to start, WVL’s teachers, counselors, and Student Learning Advocates can provide guidance on the options available. The first step of any new adventure is the most difficult, but learning how to put themselves out there to experience new things is a net positive for growth, development and wellbeing.
Participation in extracurriculars not only adds variety to the school year but also helps students develop skills and friendships that last far beyond graduation.
A Complete High School Experience with WVL
The best extracurricular activities for high school students combine academic enrichment, creative expression, leadership development, and social connection with things your student already enjoys and has an active interest in pursuing. At Wisconsin Virtual Learning, your child can access all of these opportunities while enjoying the benefits of a fully accredited online school.
Ready to help your student get more out of high school? Visit WVL’s High School Activities and Clubs page.