ATTENTION: NHS Invitation Process Changes

NHS

Each year questions come up about NHS eligibility and selection. National Honor Society membership is based not only on academics, but also on outstanding performance in the areas of service, scholarship and character. This coming school year, in an effort to promote academic excellence, juniors and seniors that have an unweighted, cumulative average of 92 or better will be invited to apply for membership.

The next step in the selection process will be for academically eligible students to complete a student Activity Information Packet. In these packets, students need to provide evidence of meeting the criteria for service, character and leadership. Examples of each quality as noted in the National Honor Society Handbook are as follows: Leadership involves not only holding elected office but also inspiring positive behaviors, exhibiting dependability, responsibility, etc. Character includes attributes such as accepting criticism willingly, complying with school regulations and demonstrating honesty and reliability. Service is demonstrated by activities that benefit others while providing no direct financial or material compensation to the student.

All high school teachers will be asked for their recommendations regarding those students that have been identified as being academically eligible. A five-member faculty selection committee, appointed by the principal, will meet to review the activity forms and teacher recommendations. Selection to NHS is based on a majority vote of this committee. Those selected are invited to be inducted during a formal fall ceremony. This summer, in preparation for completion of the activity packets (and for use on college applications), academically eligible students should start to gather information about their activities in school, community organizations, sports, church and jobs or consider ways they can become involved.

Pamela Geisinger
NHS Advisor