IHS club works to boost school’s GPA

By MIRIAM MOELLER, Journal Staff Writer
ISHPEMING — When teachers at Ishpeming High School learned the school’s overall grade point average last fall was down from fall 2006, they decided to make a change.


Created was the “Ishpeming-club” or I-club” — an “exclusive” club aimed to inspire students to raise their GPAs.


IHS Principal Brian Sarvello said although the gap between the first semester 2006-07 GPA, which was 2.92, and this year’s first semester GPA, which was 2.82, was not too large, the teachers did take notice.


To be able to join the I-club, students must have at least a 3.15 GPA, maintain it and be involved in extracurricular activities. Club members must volunteer for such activities as mentoring younger students, helping organize tournaments, clean-up and fund-raising.


“They are really interested in helping others with getting their GPAs up too,” Sarvello said about club members.


Club member and junior Mollie Anderson, 17, said she feels special to be in the club, with other students looking up to her and trying to work harder to become a part of the team. Anderson also said since she’s been in the club, she has studied more for tests because she is looking forward to the rewards. One of the most recent rewards was a one-day trip to Milwaukee to watch a Brewers baseball game.


Anderson also said the club membership will boost her resume and college applications.


Scott Syrjala, who is an IHS teacher and leader of the club, said the club helps students be more aware of their GPAs. He also said he believes in the club’s reward system.


“There is nothing wrong with rewarding students,” Syrjala said. “If that’s what it takes, that’s what it takes.”


Junior Katherine Valenti, 17, said she likes the leadership lessons she has learned in the club.


“It’s about leadership and being a good role model and supporting the school community,” Valenti said. “It’s definitely improved my politeness and manners.”


The club, which has 47 members, was started in February by Syrjala. He said he is confident the club will keep growing because many students want to be part of it due to the rewards.


“We’re trying to provide a little bit extra incentive for the students,” he said. “It’s exclusive; people want to get in here.”


He added that teachers have been commenting on the success of the club, but whether GPA numbers have gone up during the second semester remains to be seen. Sarvello said final numbers should be available by the end of the school year, which is Thursday.