Becoming a Member

Membership candidacy for the National Honor Society (NHS) is by invitation only. The four pillars of NHS—Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character—are the standards evaluated for membership.

Initial Eligibility Criteria

Each school year, after the end of Quarter 2, 10th or 11th grade students who meet the following criteria are identified:

• A cumulative GPA of 4.0 or higher on a weighted scale (based on S1 grades)

• Enrollment in at least one AP or honors class

• Attendance at CCA for a minimum of one semester

Evaluation Process

1.  Students who meet the initial eligibility criteria are invited to complete a Candidate Information Form which provides details of the candidate’s leadership and service records.  These forms must be submitted by the stated deadline.  No late forms are accepted.

2.  To evaluate a candidate’s character, two sources of input are gathered:

• School disciplinary records

• Professional observations from faculty members.  When applicable, faculty are also able to comment on each candidate’s demonstrated service and leadership.

3.  Candidates must demonstrate outstanding principles of character, leadership, and commitment to their school and community through their volunteerism in multiple areas. A rubric (see below) is utilized to assist in evaluating these qualities, and students must score a minimum of seven points to be considered for membership.

4.  After reviewing all information (Candidate Information Forms, rubric scores, faculty input, and school records), the membership decision is determined by a majority vote of the NHS Faculty Council, a group of five faculty members appointed by the principal.  While many candidates exhibit qualities of leadership, character, and service, the Faculty Council seeks those who demonstrate excellence and consistently exceed expectations.

    5.  Candidates are notified regarding their selection or non-selection.

    6.   If the student would like to appeal a non-selection decision, the following process will be followed:

a. The student must submit a written appeal letter to the adviser within 10 school days of notification of nonselection.  This appeal letter must include a detailed explanation of why the student believes his/her case should be reconsidered, including any pertinent information for the Faculty Council to review.

b. The faculty council will reconsider that individual’s case.

c. The adviser will inform the student of the council’s decision in writing.

d. If the student is still not satisfied with the decision, they may submit a written appeal to the principal within 10 school days of notification of the second nonselection.

e. The principal will then reconsider the individual’s case, in consultation with the Faculty Council, and then inform the student of his/her decision.  The decision of the principal shall be deemed final.

NHS Induction Ceremony

A formal NHS Induction Ceremony is held each fall at CCA to recognize and welcome all new members. Inductee attendance is required, and family and friends are cordially invited to attend this special occasion.