Students at Reagan High School are encouraged to think outside of the box, especially when it comes to solving problems. Seniors Anand Valavalkar and Peyton Ausburn share a passion for computer science and have been actively involved in multiple clubs and organizations over the last three-and-a-half years. Inspired by their experience with countless paper sign-in sheets and time logs, they developed the “Clubhouse: School Made Easy” app.
Clubhouse is meant to streamline that process through convenience and technology. Each student and sponsor can simply download the app onto their phone and log their meetings, volunteer hours and attendance with one click.
“It definitely lessens the burden on club officers and sponsors who are taking time out of teaching to help sponsor a club,” said Ausburn. “Now, we can focus more time on what the club is actually doing instead of typing things into a spreadsheet.”
Valavalkar and Ausburn weren’t alone in this venture. Several Reagan teachers encouraged and supported their project and even provided a group of students to test the app and provide feedback. Valavalkar says the emphasis on technology and supporting the passions of students is making a difference across North East ISD.
“Computer science is a part of who we are,” said Valavalkar. “I’m happy that NEISD is putting time and effort into computer science and STEM programs. I feel like in the future, there’s definitely going to be more of a pathway to get into that. I appreciate the fact that they’re investing in it.”
The Clubhouse app is earning acclaim and accolades across the nation. Valavalkar and Ausburn were recognized by Texas Representative Will Hurd as winners of the Congressional App Challenge. They were also invited to showcase their app at the Consumer Electronics Show. While the response to Clubhouse has far surpassed any of Anand and Peyton’s expectations, they credit Reagan’s dedicated teachers and innovative computer science classes for inspiring them to follow their passions.
The Clubhouse app is available for download on iPhone and Android devices. Just search for Clubhouse: School Made Easy in the App store.
