From Campus Leader to Smallest Club: Manteca High’s BSU Looks to Rebuild

By ALAYAH DUENES

The Tower

BSU Vice President Talia Shelbourne smiles for a portrait at Manteca High School, California on 5/19/2026. 

Once known as one of the largest and most active clubs on campus, the Black Student Union at Manteca High School is now preparing to enter the 2026-2027 school year as one of the school’s smallest organizations. 

Despite the decline in membership, BSU leaders and advisor Sarah Haskett say the club continues to provide students with a safe space, cultural representation and a sense of belonging on campus. 

Vice President Talia Shelbourne believes the club’s purpose is what motivated her to stay involved throughout high school. 

“Even though not as many people come at this point in the year, it’s still a place where everyone is welcome,” Shelbourne said. “It’s something that we should keep alive because there aren’t as many ethnic clubs on campus.” 

Shelbourne said many students originally signed up for BSU at the beginning of the school year, but attendance gradually declined as the year progressed. 

“A lot of people signed up just to sign up, and then they never came to any meetings,” Shelbourne said. “People are busy and have things outside of clubs in their lives.” 

While the club’s numbers may have dropped, said Shelbourne the atmosphere during meetings has remained largely unchanged. 

“I don’t think the smaller membership has really changed the atmosphere,” Shelbourne said. “I think it’s just dwindled down in number.” 

Shelbourne reflected on one of her favorite memories in BSU: attending a leadership conference during her junior year where schools from Stockton and surrounding areas gathered to discuss representation and leadership among Black students. 

“We talked about how represented we feel and how our clubs have helped represent Black students across the area,” said Shelbourne. 

She also shared how the club personally impacted her throughout high school. 

“It is a safe space,” said Shelbourne . “I’ve learned more about where I come from through this club. We can educate people about Black history, even people who aren’t Black.” 

This year also marked the first year of English teacher Sarah Haskett serving as BSU advisor after former advisor Chris Kimble left Manteca High School. 

Haskett said Kimble’s departure affected the organization because of the strong connection he had built with students. 

“Mr. Kimble was extremely beloved by the members,” said Haskett. “He’s had big shoes to fill.” 
According to Haskett, another major factor behind the decline in membership is the growing number of extracurricular opportunities available on campus. 

“One of the best things about MHS is the amount of clubs that it offers,” said Haskett. “However, that also means students often have to choose between clubs.” 

Although membership is smaller, Haskett said BSU continues to fulfill an important role on campus by giving students a place where they feel represented and accepted. 

“BSU offers a place for students, especially students of color, to feel comfortable in their own skin, celebrate a rich history and tradition, and promote issues that matter,” said Haskett.  

Haskett also noted that the smaller meetings created a more relaxed atmosphere this year compared to previous years when larger groups sometimes struggled to make decisions. 

“This year’s meetings have been much more relaxed and chill,” said Haskett. 

With the club’s current leadership graduating this year, BSU will enter next school year under entirely new student leadership. Still, Haskett remains optimistic about the future of the organization. 

“Some clubs just experience lulls for multiple reasons,” said Haskett. “I fully believe it’ll come back to what it was before.” 

As BSU looks toward rebuilding next year, club members hope it will continue serving as a space where students can feel connected, represented and supported on campus. 

(This story was also contributed by Bao Luu & Christian Ambriz)