NJHS (National Junior Honor Society)

National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) was established in 1929 and is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to recognize 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 its establishment.

Characteristics of an Exemplary NJHS Candidate

Scholarship

Scholarship means a commitment to learning. A student willing to spend hours in reading and studying, knowing the lasting benefits of a cultivated mind. Knowledge is one great element in life, which leads to the highest success, and it can be acquired in only one way... through diligence and effort. Candidates have the charge to continually expand their world through the opportunities inherent in scholarship.

Leadership

Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.

Service

Service can be described in various ways. In the routine of a day's work, many opportunities arise to help others. Willingness to work for the benefit of those in need without monetary compensation or without recognition is the quality we seek in our membership. We are committed to the idea of volunteering our time and abilities to the creation of a better tomorrow.

Character

The student of good character upholds principles of morality and ethics, is cooperative, demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability, shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others.

Citizenship

Citizenship is vital to the strength of our school. It requires effort and commitment. It is the willingness of each student to participate responsibly in classes, clubs, teams, and activities that occur at Renton Jr. High or in our community.

Candidate Requirements

1. The candidate must be a member of the 8th grade at Renton Jr. High.
2. The candidate must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.7, at the end of the 2nd Trimester of 7th grade.  Student GPA will be reviewed again at the end of the 3rd Trimester for qualifying students.
3. The candidate must complete and submit an application by the set due date.  The application includes a Cover Sheet, Student Activity Information Sheet, Essay, and Teacher Recommendations (2).  

• Eligible students will receive a copy of the application by the end of May.
• Once the application is submitted the faculty selection committee will use a rubric to determine if the student will be offered membership based on the NJHS characteristics of scholarship, leadership, service, character, and citizenship.
• All students will be notified by the end of September with the membership decision.

To Maintain NJHS Membership

1. Members must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.7.
2. Members must attend all meetings, unless they have been excused or absent.
3. Members must participate in at least one dance, two Homework Help sessions, and two fundraising/community service events throughout the school year.
4. Membership may be forfeited if a member cheats, in-school or out -of-school suspension, more than one detention, or commits an offense the NJHS faculty deems grievous enough for removal.  
5. Members may be put on probation.  This constitutes a warning and means repetition of the offense will result in loss of membership.
6. Uphold the qualities of scholarship, leadership, character, citizenship, and service.
7. At the end of 8th grade, students that have completed their membership requirements will be invited to the Induction Ceremony.  Students will receive their certificate of membership during the ceremony and be inducted into the Renton Jr. High Chapter of the NJHS.

NJHS Sponsors

Bethany Bettini - bettinib@huronschools.org

Karla Nash - nashk@huronschools.org