The proposal was made to the National Association of Secondary Principals to recognize and encourage academic achievement while developing other characteristics essential to citizens in a democracy. These ideals of scholarship, character, service, and leadership remain as relevant today as they did in 1921. Membership selection, within the guidelines of the national organization, is handled through the local school chapter.
Eligibility is more than just an honor roll.
Each local NHS chapter establishes rules which are based upon the student's outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character. These four criteria for selection form the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are built. The executive committee, composed of elected student officers, co-state advisors, and the coordinator of student activities, meets quarterly to plan conferences, select award recipients, and coordinate a newsletter. The National Honor Society , with offices in Reston, VA, sponsors a national three-day conference. This conference provides recognition to outstanding students with scholarships and chapters for award winning service projects.