Student Life
We offer a variety of co-curricular programs and activities that give students opportunities to explore and pursue their interests and to build confidence while growing as leaders, volunteers, and contributors to the life and spirit of our community. As part of our all-inclusive tuition, we provide transportation service to and from campus on a schedule that allows all of our students to participate fully in after-school programs and activities.
Thaden Clubs
Clubs at Thaden are open to most Middle School and all Upper School students. At this time, Bike club is the only offering for Lower School students but we do offer a robust after school program in partnership with Mobius.
Roots and Wings Literary Magazine
Model United Nations
Join in policy making, defense arguments, and simulated United Nations. Meets every Wednesday in the Digital Lab. Grades 7-12.
Girls Learn International
Seeking to empower girls worldwide to advocate for human rights and equality? Join GLI every Thursday during lunch. Grades 9-12.
MathCounts
Math competitions and enrichment for middle school students (grades 6-8) to build problem-solving skills, confidence, and a love for math through school-based contests and games. Meets Mondays 12:00 - 1:00 pm. Grades 6-8.
Jazz Band
Live performances and improvisation take center stage in the soulful art of jazz. Rehearse and perform throughout the year. Meets Thursdays and Fridays 12:30 - 1:00 pm. Grades 9-12.
Middle School Rockband
For those who are about to rock! Rehearse and perform throughout the year. Grade 5-8.
Board Game Club
Card games, board games, and overall fun! Try your hand at a new game or play some familiar ones. Grades 5-12.
NASA Club
Are you passionate about space and science? Work on designing a game for astronauts or grow crops on the moon! Grades 5-12.
3D Design Studio
Start creating using 3D printers! Learn design, CAD, and inner workings of the 3D printer. Meets Wednesdays 3:30 - 5:00 pm. Grades 9-12.
Archery Club
Take aim at this olympic sport! Traveling to The Quiver every Wednesday 3:30 - 5:00 pm. Additional fees may apply. Grades 6-12.
Chamber Orchestra
Practices occur every Monday in the Music Room from 12:15 - 12:55 pm. Grades 5-12.
Japanese Animation Society
Immerse yourself in dialogue on the storylines and themes represented in Japanese animation. Grades 5-12.
Science Olympiad
Take part in friendly competitions and challenges covering all aspects of science! Grades 6-8.
Climbing Club
Climb to new heights with our climbing team! Competing in part with the American Scholastic Climbing League. Additional fees may apply. Grades 6-12.
Stock Market Club
Learn the ins and outs of day trading and the stock market. Participate with simulated accounts and make real trades growing a portfolio with real implications. Meets Fridays 12:15 - 1:00 pm in the Library. Grades 9-12.
Chess Club
Learn the game of kings! Engage in friendly competition, study tactics, and compete regionally. Meets Thursday 12:00 - 1:00 pm. Grades 5-12.
Photography Club
Expand your photography portfolio and skills! Meets Thursdays during the second half of lunch. Grades 9-12.
Folklore and Mythology Club
Dig deep into fairy tales, origin stories, and myths across cultures and generations. Meets Tuesday 12:15 - 1:00 in room C116. Grades 9-12.
Students Demand Action
A student-led initiative to help address gun violence in U.S. schools. They engage in debate, write to lawmakers, and organize public events. Meets Mondays 12:30 - 1:00 pm. Grades 7-12.
Community-Based Learning Council
A student led initiative to connect students with community workshops, advertise internships, and be active in our community. Meets Tuesday 12:15 - 1:05 pm in room C115. Grades 9-12.
Meals Club
Step into the culinary world designing menus, sharpening skills, and trying new recipes! Meets Mondays and Thursdays 12:15 - 1:05 pm. Grades 5-8.
Affinity Spaces
Building kindness and belonging is an important part of a Thaden education. Specifically designed affinity spaces bring together people who share a particular identity, experience, or interest. These spaces are intentionally structures as safe spaces where members can speak openly, process experiences, and explore identities without needing to educate others or defend perspectives. These spaces are designed to build connection, reduce isolation, and support social-emotional well-being.
PRISM
An affinity space meeting the second Thursday of the month for students who identify as LGBTQ, questioning their identity, or allies of the community. Grades 5-12.
Student of Color Union
An affinity space for students of color. Meets the first Thursday of every month in D101 during Upper School Lunch. Grades 5-12.
Neurodivergent Affinity Group
Dig deep into fairy tales, origin stories, and myths across cultures and generations. Meets Tuesday 12:15 - 1:00 in room C116. Grades 9-12.
Indigenous Student Union
A welcoming space for any student or faculty member who identifies as Indigenous to gather, connect, and share experiences.
Christian Affinity Group
A welcoming space for any student or faculty who identifies as Christian to gather, connect, and share in faith and fellowship. Meets every 3rd Thursday in D101 during Upper School Lunch.
Navigating Horizons
Thaden's Global Education Program: Navigating Horizons
Louise Thaden, an accomplished aviator, symbolizes the spirit of exploration, courage, and pushing boundaries. Navigating Horizons captures the essence of the program's mission, which is to empower students to venture beyond familiar boundaries, explore diverse cultures, and develop the skills necessary to navigate an interconnected world. This program embodies Thaden's dedication to providing transformative global education experiences that inspire students to embrace new perspectives and embark on a lifelong journey of discovery. Contact Mr. Elliott for more information.
Exciting Growth and New Partnerships Await!
We are thrilled to announce that our program includes partnerships with schools in Durban, South Africa. As we continue to grow, we are eager to share more information with you about the next steps in the application process and the amazing opportunities available through our newly partnered schools. Stay tuned for updates and further details on how you can be a part of this enriching global education experience.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement Partners
Use the resources below to find community partners that seek volunteers as individuals or groups! Additionally, reach out to our Community-Based Learning council to find out more ways to get involved designing Thaden curriculum, attending seminars, and getting active in our community. Contact Mr. Slaton for information regarding the CBL Council.
Community service holds immense significance in your personal growth and the betterment of society. Engaging in acts of service allows you to make a positive impact, develop empathy, and cultivate essential skills for your future. By dedicating your time and effort to helping others, you gain a deeper understanding of the challenges people face, fostering compassion and a sense of responsibility. Community service provides an opportunity to develop crucial skills such as leadership, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. These skills will prove invaluable as you navigate through college, careers, and beyond. Your actions have the power to create lasting change and inspire others to follow suit.
Community Partners
- Bentonville Animal Services
- Best Friends Animal Shelter
- Habitat for Humanity
- NWA Food Pantry
- NWA Women's Shelter
- Pedal It Forward
- Teen Action Support Center (TASC)
Bentonville Animal Services
Bentonville Animal Services is always looking for dog walkers! All ages are welcome to volunteer albeit, if under 16 must be with a parent.
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Best Friends Animal Shelter
Contact Best Friends Animal Shelter for ways you can be involved in volunteering at the site, sponsoring a food drive, collecting blankets, and more!
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Habitat for Humanity
Connect with Habitat for Humanity for opportunities to build local homes, restock the ReStore, and other helpful projects!
NWA Food Pantry
Gather a few friends or family to volunteer at the Center in Lowell organizing, sorting, and packaging goods to be delivered to the community. Volunteer opportunities can be found on the NWA Food Bank Website.
NWA Women's Shelter
To learn more about ways to support our local Women's Shelter please contact Travis Baker. The shelter offers multiple opportunities in the thrift store in addition to drives and events outside of the shelter. Get involved today!
Pedal It Forward
Help build bicycles for community members! For more information on ways to be involved please contact Kenny Williams.
Teen Action Support Center (TASC)
For more information on ways to be involved please contact Angela Smith or via phone (479-636-8272).
Internships
Thaden Summer Internships
Applications are open for Upper School students interested in interning at Thaden this summer in the garden or at summer camps. Applications are due March 18 and can be found at the following link.
Equestrian Bridges
At Equestrian Bridges, interns gain real-world, hands-on experience in equine-assisted services, nonprofit operations, and community impact work. Internships are flexible in hours, begin as unpaid 3-month placements, and may transition to paid roles if skills and funding allow. Internship opportunities are organized into focused pathways— so you can quickly find the area that best fits your passion and experience. Applicants are encouraged to review each pathway and choose the one that best aligns with their interests, education, and future career plans.
Bentonville City Lifestyle Internship brings a real-world experience directly to our students, giving them a voice to tell their stories through writing, photography, and social media.
Are you interested in sponsoring an intern?
Thaden is always looking for new partnerships and opportunities for our students to learn hands on experience. Please contact Tyler Elliott to share the opportunity!