Blog

NHS: Not Only a Program but a Platform

Teenagers have a natural tendency to view the National Honor Society (NHS) as something that only elite and privileged students do. Way too many students drift through high school thinking the organization is not for them. As the school year comes to an end, I want to share why teenagers should consider participating in NHS...
Student Leadership

Texas Student Wins NSLW Sticker Design Contest

Morgan Go, a junior at Stony Point High School in Round Rock, TX, is the winner of the first-ever sticker design contest for National Student Leadership Week (NSLW) held in April. Go is the secretary of her school’s NHS chapter and will serve as vice president next school year. Here, she talks about the contest...
Student Leadership

The Secret to Sustained Student Council Success

The student council at Grassfield High School in Chesapeake, VA, has been recognized as a National Council of Excellence 15 times, ever since the school first opened. The award recognizes student councils for implementing a strong leadership program that meets council goals; functioning in an ethical and responsible way; and engaging others in leadership, spirit,...
School Leadership, Student Leadership

A Fundraising Project That Changes Lives

When it comes time for students in the NHS chapter here at Thunder Ridge High School in Idaho Falls, ID, to graduate, just about every one of them would say that a highlight was this year’s project where we raised money to build a house for a Ukrainian family displaced by the war. I started...
Student Leadership

Inside the Backpacks of NHS Scholarship Winners: Discovering the Essentials of Tomorrow’s Leaders

NASSP recently recognized 25 outstanding National Honor Society members with scholarships for their dedication to the four pillars of NHS: Scholarship, Service, Leadership, and Character. As they embark on a bright future, we explore what essentials they carry with them every day, from textbooks to tech gadgets, and everything in between. Discover the unique personalities...
Student Leadership

Trailblazing Leadership Week Celebrates Student and School Leaders

NASSP sits at the intersection of student and school leadership. Any progress in our schools must start with those who are a part of them, and the combined effect of these groups working together is greater than each working alone. This power was on full display during NASSP’s Trailblazing Leadership Week, April 22-25, which brought...
School Leadership, Student Leadership

Award Recognizes International School’s Student Council

The student council at Boston International School (BIS) in Jiangsu, China, is among the 337 winners of this year’s National Council of Excellence. The award recognizes student councils for implementing a strong leadership program that meets council goals; functioning in an ethical and responsible way; and engaging others in leadership, spirit, civic, and service activities....
Student Leadership

A Powerful Collaboration Between School Leaders and Student Leaders

Here in Washington state, we have what I think is a unique—and powerful—relationship between the Association of Washington Student Leaders (where I serve as director) and the Association of Washington School Principals. The best way to put it is that we work in tandem: The principals’ association supports principals on down and we support students...
Principal Pipeline: Recruitment and Retention, School Leadership, Student Leadership

Student Leaders Help Peers Dance the Night Away

In late January, our NHS chapter at Montrose High School in Montrose, CO, hosted a dance for students with special needs. While our students in mainstream classes organize several events throughout the year, such as homecoming, prom, and various sporting events, to help make their high school experience memorable, many students with special needs do...
Student Leadership

NHS Induction Essentials

Each spring, National Honor Society (NHS) chapters around the world hold induction ceremonies to welcome new members. For advisers, the induction ceremony is a major event that requires careful planning and preparation. Our store offers a wide range of high-quality induction gear, including certificates, pins, and banners. In this post, we’ll highlight induction essentials that...
School Leadership, Student Leadership

Chasing Hours: A More Meaningful Service Requirement

As advisers and principals work tirelessly to count service hours as part of their district, school, or program requirements, it’s important to reflect on the process and meaning behind collecting this information. Are we collecting service hours to check off a graduation requirement? Or do staff and students understand the greater purpose? Does a focus...
Student Leadership

What Black History Month Means to Me

I believe that Black History Month is not just a time to remember the history of African Americans but a time to understand the importance of three things: advocacy, activism, and societal progress. Over the years, advocacy in particular has changed our world for the better. As students, my peers and I are aware of...
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Student Leadership

Remind Your Students to Apply for the NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award

Are your NJHS students showing their commitment to the five pillars of National Junior High Society: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship? Then encourage them to apply for the NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award (OAA). The top 500 students will receive a $500 college savings plan to support their educational aspirations. Applications are due March 29....
Student Leadership

How LEAD Spark Leaves a Lasting Impression

Great leaders weren’t always leaders in every aspect or moment of life. The best leaders were followers that took the time to absorb knowledge and perspectives from all. LEAD Spark, which I attended last month, is a once in a lifetime opportunity for any student to ignite their leadership through interactive presenters and motivational speakers....
Student Leadership