March 28, Waller Junior High (WJH) inducted 84 members into the Celeste Eplen Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS). NJHS is considered the nation’s premier organization established to recognize outstanding middle level students. Membership is open to all students who achieve an average grade of 85 or higher in core classes at the end of the first semester.
“National Junior Honor Society is an organization that recognizes and encourages academic achievement while also developing other characteristics essential to citizens in a democracy,” NJHS Sponsor Daralyn Brzymialkiewicz said.
If qualified, students are given an application to complete along with teacher evaluation sheets. The application consists of writing about why they are seeking membership and providing information on their participation in WJH activities and clubs, community activities, athletic teams, and leadership or service experience. Students were given a week to complete and submit their application. The NJHS Faculty Council reviews each application to determine if the applicant shall be granted membership.
“Being selected as a member of NJHS is the highest honor awarded to students at Waller Junior High,” Brzymialkiewicz said. “More than a Honor Roll, NJHS serves to the accomplishments of those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship.”
During the induction ceremony, as each student crossed the stage, they were given their NJHS card, pin, and white rose. The rose is a symbol of NJHS. Guest speaker Michelle Gray, a Waller ISD alumna, commended students on their achievements and motivated them to keep working on their initiative and follow-through, and to never give up. At the end of the ceremony, students recited the Honor Society Pledge to officially become NJHS members.
Once inducted, students must maintain their grade point average in core classes, attend NJHS meetings, and obtain 10 hours of community service each year.
“Students learn how to make an impact in their community and the world. NJHS membership is an outstanding opportunity to develop the habits and standards that are important to success in high school, college, and a career,” Brzymialkiewicz said. “They continue to gain leadership development, motivation, as well as inspiration.”
