March 17, 2025 by Allison Richard (‘26)
Saratoga Springs High School has many clubs, one for every type of person, and for almost every interest. The Shades of Blue club provides a platform for students to express themselves through written words and community involvement. The club’s vice president, Charlotte Demott, expressed her insights on the club’s driving force, its impact on the community and school, and her personal experiences within the organization. Charlotte shared that her journey to leadership stemmed from Mrs. Gallagher’s creative writing class she took her freshman year, which drove her to join the club, and furthered her preexisting love for writing. Soon after her entry, she was given the position of vice president, and her work and leadership has grown further from there. During her time as a member, she expressed, she has observed significant positive impacts on both the school and the wider community; “I’ve seen a really safe and comfortable place for people to express themselves in Shades of Blue and that definitely reaches far beyond the club as well.” From her perspective, the most appealing aspect of the club is the company of people who are welcoming and nothing but kind. “It can be hard to find places to really express yourself,” she comments, “but this is a place you really can do that”. A cozy and welcoming environment can cultivate creativity, making it easier for new writers to develop their skills and confidence. Among the various activities organized by Shades of Blue, a club-beloved event was their trip to The Home of the Good Shepherd. This event brought together NHS students and Shades of Blue members to celebrate the holidays with senior citizens living in the facility’s care. This day not only highlighted the care of the individuals but also strengthened the bond within the student body. Demott believes that joining the club has brought her more in touch with her writing outside of school and has enhanced her interest in volunteering in her own time as well. Shades of Blue may be a great club for SSHS students to develop new skills in creativity and writing alike-both skills useful in future school settings or professions.
It is clear that the importance of personal expression will remain with any members of Shades of Blue. The club recognizes the ability to share feelings through words, and how this creativity can enhance all aspects of academics and many extracurriculars. Skills gained through the club are not only beneficial in writing but also play a crucial role in future career paths, where persuasive and clear communication is essential.
Demott mentioned that it’s important for students to “not give up on reading and writing. Many kids start to give up on these skills during middle school even if they’ve always loved it.” She acknowledges that there is a stigma felt by students around literature and she loves working to prevent the love for writing from fading as people get older.
Club Vice President Demott of Shades of Blue offered great insight into the nature of creative writing and community work, with the intention of sharing the club’s purpose and advertising the club to possible new members. Her journey with Shades of Blue reflects the love for literary reading and writing that many students possess. The club’s work in both the school and community illustrate the benefits of creative writing and a tight knit-group willing to grow together and try new things. As members continue to explore their narratives, the club remains a strong part of the SSHS community and will keep helping students to express themselves through writing and creativity! If you are interesting in exploring this club, visit Shades of Blue on their instagram @toga_shadesofblue, or contact b_gallagher@saratogaschools.org.