National Honor Society / National Junior Honor Society
The National Honor Society (NHS) and National Junior Honor Society (NJHS), established in 1921 and 1929, respectively, are some of the nation’s premier organizations established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NHS and NJHS serve to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, Character, and Citizenship. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since their inception.
Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate in activities of the NHS (High School) and NJHS (Middle School). NHS and NJHS chapters are found in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, many U.S. Territories, and Canada. Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments, but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.
Visit www.nhs.us and www.njhs.us for more about the benefits of membership.
Students in grades 10–12 who meet the requirements for membership outlined by our school’s NHS chapter and students in grades 6–9 who meet the requirements for membership outlined by our school’s NJHS chapter are eligible to be invited for membership.
Students must be in their second semester of sixth grade for consideration.
Students must meet the following guidelines.
Scholarship
Per national guidelines, at a minimum, students must have a cumulative GPA of 90, B, 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, or equivalent standard of excellence.
Service
This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation.
Leadership
Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.
Character
The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record.
Citizenship
The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic engagement; has a high regard for freedom and justice; respects the U.S. form of government; respects the law for all citizens at the local, state, and federal levels; and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility in activities such as scouting, community organizations, or school clubs.
Students who meet the scholarship requirement will have an opportunity to complete a form detailing their accomplishments in and commitment to service, leadership, character, and citizenship.
Students who accept membership and are inducted into the chapter should be aware of the time and commitment involved with this honor. For example, there will be chapter meetings. The chapter bylaws articulate the yearly meeting schedule and member attendance obligations. Members also must participate in chapter and individual service projects to benefit the school and community. Contact the chapter advisers, Mr. Carioto and Ms. Seiler, to obtain a full list of the obligations of membership.
NHS and NJHS members will sumit their volunteer hours using a Google Form located in the chapter’s Google Classroom. Members will be added to the Classroom at the beginning of each year.