Poole Middle School

After School Activities

General Information about the John Poole After-School Activities Program 

After-school activities are held Tuesday through Thursday, after school every week throughout the school year, except where indicated on the school Website calendar. No activities are held on early release days or holidays. The Montgomery County Department of Recreation RecExtra program supports and supplements our after-school club offerings.  Most activities, except for interscholastic games and academic related clubs, will start at 2:45 and end at 4:15 pm.  Activity buses are available for students to ride home, but the routes are somewhat different than the regular bus routes; please check the activity bus schedule. Our consortium students will be required to have a car ride home.  Please contact Mr. Mattingly at John Poole MS if you have any questions about after-school activities program at 240-740-4200 or Edward_J_Mattingly@mcpsmd.org.     

Rec Extra Website: http://www.montgomerycountymd.gov/rec/thingstodo/youthdevelopment/recxtra.html

Rec Extra Sign-up Forms are found on the RecXtra Bulletin Board or in room 310.

Philosophy of the John Poole After-School Activities Program

We believe that after-school activities are an integral part of the total education process for middle school students. After-school activities provide students with the opportunity to extend academic opportunities, support new areas of interest, cultivate and enhance existing skills, and grow both socially and cognitively in a safe and supportive environment. We offer a broad range of activities over the course of the school year in an effort to reach out to the varied interests of our student population. Although these activities take place after the school day is over, all of John Poole P.R.I.D.E. goals and expectations remain the same. We believe the After-school Activity Program is a unique program that supports the need of all of our students. 

Activity Coordinator

• Mr. Mattingly

Activity Bus

Click here for the list of activity bus route stops.

Activities and Sponsors

List of RecXtra After-School Activities Programs 

RecXtra is a partnership between the Montgomery County Recreation Department and MCPS to provide after school programing to middle school students.  All students enrolled at John Poole are eligible and encouraged to join a RecXtra Club.  Clubs run after school Tuesdays-Thursdays between 2:45 - 4:15. Activity buses are available for students at the conclusion of clubs or students can be picked up in the carpool lane. 

There is no cost for any RecXtra Club.  Students just need to complete and return a sign-up sheet.  Space in clubs is limited and given on a first come first serve basis.

RecXtra is proud to announce the following clubs starting this Fall:

TUESDAYS

• RecXtra MCTEF Fall Tennis Club - Informational Flyer

  • Start Date: September 30, 2025

  • Program Description: Instructors from the Montgomery County Tennis & Education Foundation (MCTEF) will provide a recreational tennis program to introduce students to the game of tennis. Each week focuses on learning components of tennis through game-based, fun instructions. Tennis etiquette and sportsmanship will be stressed at every lesson. Racquets are provided. Sneakers or athletic shoes must be worn to participate (no Crocs).

  • Sign Up Sheet 

• RecXtra Focus Zone

  • Start Date: September 30

  • Program Description: The Focus Zone is a supportive and calm space where students can complete missing assignments, catch up on homework, or revisit tasks they’d like to improve. Whether you're behind on work or just want a quiet environment to get ahead, this club provides a no-pressure atmosphere to help you succeed.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

• RecXtra Gaming Club

  • Start Date: September 30

  • Program Description: Join Mrs. Crutchfield for Gaming Club after school. This club is all about fun and community! In addition to playing popular titles on the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, we'll also have a dedicated space for classic gaming. Challenge your friends to a match of Super Mario Kart on the Super Nintendo or discover other retro gems.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

WEDNESDAYS

• RecXtra Club Crescendo - Informational Flyer

  • Start Date: September 24, 2025

  • Program Description: Whether you're struggling with a difficult piece, want to learn a new instrument, or just need a quiet space to perfect your craft, Club Crescendo is the perfect place to grow as a musician. We offer a supportive environment where you can get expert guidance or simply dedicate time to your passion. The sponsor is Mrs. Morris.

  • Sign Up Sheet

• RecXtra Chill Zone

  • Start Date: September 24

  • Program Description: Join Mrs. Vogel in the Chill Zone. This isn't just a place to hang out; it's a chance to build valuable life skills. We'll explore simple, effective techniques like mindful breathing, quick meditation exercises, and creative outlets to help you manage daily stress.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

• RecXtra Digital Dojo

  • Start Date: October 1st

  • Program Description: Step into the Digital Dojo and hone your gaming skills! Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this is your chance to master new games and challenge your peers. We'll have a wide selection of titles on both the PlayStation 5 and Nintendo Switch, from competitive multiplayer games to cooperative adventures. We'll also revisit classic consoles like the Super Nintendo.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

THURSDAYS

• RecXtra Leo's Club

  • Start Date: September 30

  • Program Description: Join Mrs. Crutchfield for Leo's Club, for students who want to make a real difference. We'll work together to brainstorm and lead impactful service projects that benefit both our school and the wider community. It’s a chance to develop your leadership skills and see the positive change your hard work can create.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

• RecXtra Homework Haven

  • Start Date: September 25

  • Program Description: At the Homework Haven, students can find a quiet, relaxed environment to focus on their academic work. With support available and a friendly environment, students can stay on top of their workload without the stress.

  • Sign Up Sheet: English  \  Spanish

Interested in sponsoring a RecXtra Club? Have questions or concerns about RecXtra Clubs?

Contact Mr. Edward Mattingly, John Poole MS’s After School Activities Coordinator, at 240-740-4200 or via email at Edward_J_Mattingly@mcpsmd.org. 

List of Intramurals After School Activities

The middle school intramural program is open to all JPMS students and is an extension of the physical education instructional program, including the development of movement skills, health-related fitness, and personal and social responsibility, conducted before and/or after school among students in the same school. The primary reason for participation is enjoyment of the activities rather than pressure to compete and win, as in athletic competition. Such an environment will enable students to extend learning of the benefits of movement, develop positive attitudes, increase self-esteem, enjoy positive social interactions, and broaden their fitness and leisure horizons.

The intramural activities are held after school on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and/or Thursdays until 4:20.  An activity bus will be provided to take you home.

The students must complete the following in order to attend the intramural activity:

1. Be academically eligible (Minimum GPA 2.0)
2. Submit the Parent/Guardian Permission Slip (paper copies in the locker rooms)
3. Students who are enrolled in physical education must actively participate in class to be eligible to participate in intramural activities on that day.

Intramural Coordinator: Mrs. Kim Gerrie   Kimberly_S_Gerrie@mcpsmd.org

List of Extra Curricular Activities