The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is the nation’s premier
organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students.
More than just an honor roll, NJHS serves to honor those students who
demonstrate excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service,
citizenship, and character. These characteristics have been associated
with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1929.
Today, it is estimated that more than one million students participate
in activities of the NJHS and its high school counterpart, the
National Honor Society (NHS).
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 also challenges
them to develop further through active involvement in school
activities and community service.
NJHS is more than just academic recognition. The NJHS chapter
establishes guidelines for selection that are based upon a student’s outstanding
performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership,
citizenship, and character.
Scholarship: Eligibility is determined at the end of a student’s first semester grading report in 7th and 8th grades. Student must have attended St. Anne School at least one semester to be considered. Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic average of at least “93” in the core courses of religion, math, history, English, literature, and science, and no conduct grade below 93. Faculty members and the principal will evaluate and make final selection of prospective members in the areas of scholarship, character, leadership, service and citizenship. No prospective candidates will be considered if they receive more than two “below averages” in any area. Also, any in-school or external suspension results in permanent dismissal from the National Junior Honor Society.
Service: This quality is defined as the voluntary contributions made by a
student to the school or community, without direct financial or material
compensation to the individual performing the service. Chapters may
establish criteria that stipulate specific quantities of projects or service
hours for candidates, as well as expectations of service obligations once a
student is selected as a member.
Leadership: Student leaders are often viewed as those who are resourceful,
good problem-solvers, involved in and promoters of school activities,
idea contributors, dependable, and persons who are both organized and
good organizers. Experiences to be considered under the Leadership criterion
can include activities that originate in the school or community or
both, as determined by the local chapter.
Citizenship: The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the
importance of civic involvement; has a high regard for freedom, justice,
and democracy; and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility
through involvement in activities such as scouting, community organizations,
or school clubs.
Character: The student of good character can be said to be one who
upholds principles of morality and ethics; is cooperative and responsible;
demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy,
concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a positive outlook
on life. Chapters consider the values and traditions of both the local
school and community when defining the character criterion.
Selection Process
Students are advised if they meet the academic criterion and are invited to apply for membership in NJHS. Selection is made by a vote of the
a Faculty Committee. The NJHS sponsor/adviser supervises the selection process and coordinates the induction ceremony each year.
St. Anne NJHS Officers for 2009-10 are:
President: Maggie Morrow
Vice President: Katherine Werner
Secretary: Rosalie Gambrah
Treasurer: Vinnie Nguyen
Historian: Lauren Powers
Parliamentarian: Michael Figuieras
St. Anne NJHS Officers for 2008-09 are pictured here at induction ceremony.