en-us Copyright 2008 - All Rights Reserved. Mon, 23 Nov 2009 11:27:32 GMT 15 By Stephanie Lucas
What does it take to be in the National Honor Society? The requirements have changed, but the purpose of NHS is still not about putting in ridiculous amounts of community service hours or having a report card that would put Einstein to shame. It’s about having a genuine desire to help the community and make it a better place for everyone to live. As for those new requirements, a GPA of at least 95 is necessary for the senior class of 2009 and later, as opposed to a GPA of 90 in previous years. “We felt like we were lowering the standards in comparison to other schools,” Marty Chapman, NHS sponsor said, “A 90 seemed low.” Students who are currently juniors at Flour Bluff as well as those who will be striving for the new GPA will also have to have at least three advanced classes. “[They need] basically any class that requires a prerequisite… is an advanced class,” senior and president of NHS Mary Lewis said. “They do not have to have the Pre-AP, AP, or Dual Credit title.” This year, current members of NHS will have attended a mandatory group event, or an alternate event if they are unable to attend the first, for each semester. “Last semester was the Ronald McDonald House Christmas party where we decorated the house, made crafts with the kids, and decorated cookies,” Lewis said. “This semester we will be helping the Habitat for Humanity organization by holding a car wash to raise money that will be used to help furnish a house. We will also have the option of going to one of the work sites and helping with the construction, landscaping, and decorating of one of the houses.” Some students say the process of applying for NHS takes a great deal of time. “It’s not all that stressful, but it is time-consuming,” junior Monica Leal said. “We have to get a ton of signatures from our teachers, s p o n s o r s , and employers and then write an essay.” Prospective NHS members can start early on things to put on their applications, which include extracurricular activities, honors and/or awards, leadership positions, community service, work experience, and an essay. “I’ve had good grades, good behavior, and I’ve done a lot throughout the past two years involving community service,” Leal said. When it comes to being a member of NHS, one needs to show exemplary behavior and competence. Whatever qualifications potential members decide to exhibit, they must keep in mind the four ideals of the National Honor Society: service, leadership, scholarship, and character. ]]> Mon, 02 Apr 2007 17:54:00 GMT