St. James High School’s National Honor Society chapter has been recognized as a National Chapter of Distinction, honoring the leadership, service, and commitment of its 70 student members.
For NHS students, service is more than a requirement. It is an opportunity to see where help is needed and find a way to make a difference. Throughout the year, students volunteer throughout the community while also leading projects of their own.
Two of the chapter’s biggest ongoing projects are weekly recycling at the high school and blood drives held each fall and spring for St. James students and staff. Students are also encouraged to find their own service opportunities, track their volunteer hours, and bring ideas to the chapter when they see a need they can help address.
That spirit of service is part of a long tradition at St. James High School. The school’s first NHS induction was held during the 1980-1981 school year. Today’s students are continuing that tradition while finding new ways to serve their school and community.
The work of NHS students is a strong example of the St. James R-1 mission to empower students through caring relationships, academic excellence, and community partnerships. They are using their leadership and talents to contribute beyond the classroom and make a difference in the community around them.
“I am absolutely thrilled to receive this award,” said Josh Adams, St. James High School NHS Sponsor. “It allowed our officers and myself to reflect on all the great things our students do throughout our school and community. These students put a tremendous amount of work into volunteering all over our community.”
Adams has served as the NHS sponsor for eight years, beginning with the 2019-2020 school year. The current NHS officers are Gabriel Adams, president; Marley Light, vice president; Jolie Roark, secretary; Autumn French, treasurer; and Lily Davis, historian.
The chapter began the award application process in March, when the officers worked together to document the chapter’s service projects, leadership, and other work throughout the school and community. After submitting the application and completing the review process, the chapter learned in September that it had earned the national distinction.
Students are selected for NHS beginning at the end of their sophomore year. Candidates must have a 3.0 or higher GPA and be approved by a teacher selection committee.
The National Chapter of Distinction recognizes NHS chapters that demonstrate strong leadership, organization, and commitment to service. For St. James High School, the recognition celebrates the work students are already doing to lead, serve, and make their school and community a better place.
Learn more about the Chapter of Distinction award at https://www.nationalhonorsociety.org/nhs-chapters-of-distinction/
