The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's
premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school
students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students
who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership,
Service, and Character. These characteristics have been associated with
membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921.
Today, it is estimated that over one million students participate in activities
of the NHS and its middle level counterpart, the National Junior Honor
Society (NJHS). NHS chapters are found in all 50 states, the District
of Columbia, Puerto Rico and 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 providing community service.
NHS is more than just an honor roll. The NHS chapter establishes rules
for membership that are based upon a student's outstanding performance
in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These
four criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization
and its activities are built.
Scholarship:
students who have a cumulative grade point average of 85 percent,
B, 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) or equivalent standard of excellence, or a
higher cumulative average, set by the local school's faculty council
meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are
then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership,
and character." (NHS Constitution, Article IX, section 2)
Service:
This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made
by a student to the school or community,
done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic
spirit.
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 activity while working with
or for others.
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 and generally maintains
a good and clean lifestyle.
National Honor Society 
