National Junior Honor Society (NJHS)
Program Overview
The National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) is a prestigious organization that recognizes middle school students for their outstanding academic achievement, leadership, service, character, and commitment to excellence. As a chapter of the NJHS at our Catholic school, we integrate the values of faith, service, and community into the core mission of the organization.
Catholic Values and NJHS: At Saint Hugh, we believe in the importance of nurturing students who not only excel academically but also embody the Catholic virtues of compassion, integrity, and service to others. The NJHS program emphasizes the importance of character and moral responsibility, guiding students to develop into young adults who actively live out their faith in their school, family, and community.
Service to Others: Service is a central tenet of the NJHS, encouraging students to engage in acts of kindness and community involvement. By contributing to both their school and broader community, NJHS members learn the importance of giving back and making a positive difference in the world. This focus on service aligns with our Catholic mission of helping others and being stewards of God’s love.
Leadership and Character: In addition to academic excellence, NJHS members are expected to demonstrate leadership both in and outside of the classroom. Students are encouraged to take initiative, inspire others, and act as role models in their behavior, showing the importance of integrity and responsibility. As part of their ongoing development, members grow into leaders who understand the value of both academic and personal success in the context of their faith.
Eligibility Requirements for Invitation:
- Grade Level: Students must be in 7th or 8th grade to receive an invitation.
- GPA: Maintain a minimum of a 3.7 GPA at the end of each quarter.
- Active Learner Traits: All grades must be +s and S’s in Active Learner Traits.
- Teacher Recommendation: A recommendation letter from Middle School staff is required.
- TERRA NOVA Score: The previous year’s TERRA NOVA Composite Score must be above 85.
- Final Average: The previous year’s final average must meet the required standards.
- 8th graders will wear the prestigious NJHS Honor Cords at graduation
Ongoing Membership Requirements:
- GPA: Maintain a minimum 3.7 GPA at the end of every quarter.
- Active Learner Traits: Continue to earn +s and S’s in Active Learner Traits.
- Community Service: Complete at least 10 hours of community service within the year.
Probation Policy:
- Probation: If a student’s GPA falls below 3.7 for a given quarter and/or if their behavior does not meet the required standards, they will be placed on probation for one full quarter. If the student improves their GPA and behavior during this period, they will remain in good standing.
Dismissal Policy:
- Dismissal: If a student does not meet the necessary GPA or behavior requirements during the probation period, they will be dismissed from NJHS. Once dismissed, the student is ineligible to reapply for membership.
Note:
- Only students in 7th and 8th grade are eligible for NJHS invitation. While we recognize the many outstanding 6th-grade students, this transitional year allows students to adjust to the curriculum and class structure before being considered for NJHS membership.