As you enter high school, you’re expected to be the perfect student: get top grades, do sports, join clubs, and get involved.

Being a member of the National Honor Society is a good indicator that you’re on your way to being that “perfect” student.

Many students want to get in but they don’t know what it is.

The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation’s first organization established to recognize 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 the membership since its beginning in 1921.

NHS’s goal is to stimulate a desire to provide services; to promote leadership; and to develop character in the students.

Math teacher Brandi Stratton and history teacher Shannon Ramah co-advise NHS and are in charge of seeing which students get inducted.

“Juniors and seniors who meet the 3.5 GPA will be sent a letter telling them that they may apply,” says Ramah. “An application will be distributed to those wanting to apply. Students will state what they have done for volunteer work in detail and when they had done it.”

Students need to have two short term (less than 20 hours) volunteer positions, such as working at the survival center or the senior center. They also need one long term (20 or more hours) session.

An application is available online, but advisors distribute applications to students in person if they are eligible. They are due before January 5.

“NHS students volunteer, donate food for groups such as the Open Pantry and The Survival Center, raise funds for organizations such as Toys for Tots and serve as an example in the community,” says Ramah

The National Honor Society offers scholarships through the national organization, but unfortunately, LHS does not currently offer one to its students. “We’ve discussed having [a local scholarship],” said Ramah, “and would like to in the future.”