Our Athletics & Extracurriculars

Dance/Cheer

BCMAR’s school dance program offers enhanced social interaction, improved physical health, and positive mental well-being. Our dance programs provides a supervised and safe space for students to connect with peers, develop social skills, and build a sense of community through the art of dance and cheer. With the dedication of our committed dance instructor, our dancing scholars get to experience physical activity, which can improve cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and flexibility. Furthermore, dance can be a powerful tool for stress relief, self-expression, and building self-confidence.

Benefits:

·      Increased Social Interaction that fosters teamwork

·      Improved Communication Skills

·      Increased Self-Confidence

·      Sense of Community

·      Physical Activity and Health

·      Improved Coordination Body Awareness

·      Stress Relief

·      Emotional Outlet

Gardening

Our campus garden offers our scholars numerous benefits, including promoting healthy eating habits, providing hands-on learning opportunities, fostering environmental stewardship, and supporting academic and social-emotional development.  Not only are students being introduced to environmental responsibility, they are also getting hands-on learning experiences that can be integrated in various school subjects like math and social studies.

Benefits:

·      Improved Nutrition Knowledge

·      Increased Sense of Community

·      Stress Reduction and Relaxation

·      Improved Self-Esteem and Confidence

·      Appreciation for Nature

·      Understanding of Ecosystems

·      Promote and Understanding of Sustainability

NJHS

What is the National Junior Honor Society?

Established in 1929, the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is one of the nation's premier organizations established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1929.

Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in activities of the NHS (High School) and NJHS (Middle School). NHS and NJHS chapters are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, many U.S. Territories, and Canada. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.

Baylor College of Medicine Academy at James D. Ryan proudly displays its NJHS scholars by holding them accountable for representing our campus in all the expected membership criteria. 

Who is eligible for NJHS?

In accordance with national standards set by NJHS, students will first qualify for an invitation through their demonstration of success in the area of scholarship.  That means, students in 6^th, 7^th, and 8th grade with an average or 90 or above in core classes will receive an invitation to fill out an application. Students will then fill out the application to give examples of their accomplishments in the remaining areas of Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship.  Therefore, just because a student qualifies based on their cumulative average (scholarship), does not mean they will not automatically be inducted into the NJHS.

What does an exemplary NJHS candidate look like?

• Scholarship: Students who have an average or 90 or above in core classes, as established by the local school's Faculty Council, meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, and character (and citizenship for NJHS).
• Service: This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic spirit.
• Leadership: Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.
• Character: The student of good character upholds principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others, and generally maintains a stellar academic and personal lifestyle.