Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society Constitution
Article I: Membership
Section 1: Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for membership, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Maintain a minimum cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0.
Successfully complete at least two core social studies courses.
Submit a completed application by the published deadline and participate in the full selection process, including an interview.
Section 2: Application and Selection Process
All candidates must complete an official application and participate in an interview conducted as part of the selection process. The application process will require candidates to show participation in activities that demonstrate civic engagement in school or community, and their desire and aspiration to be a member of the organization. Selection into Rho Kappa shall not be based, in any way, on the basis of race, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or physical or mental disabilities.
The selection committee, composed of social studies teachers designated by the chapter advisor, will review all applications. The committee’s decisions regarding membership are final and not subject to appeal.
Section 3: Reapplication
Candidates who are not selected for membership may reapply during the next application cycle, provided they continue to meet all eligibility criteria.
Section 4: Disqualification
Applications that are incomplete, submitted past the deadline, or do not meet all stated eligibility requirements will be automatically disqualified from consideration.
Section 5: Transfer Students
Students who transfer to ARHS and were active members in good standing of a Rho Kappa chapter at their previous school may be granted automatic membership upon submission of a letter of recommendation or verification from their former chapter advisor or school principal.
Article II: Member Requirements
Section 1: Academic Expectations
All members must be enrolled in a social studies course each academic year and maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. Failure to meet either of these academic standards will result in removal from the chapter.
Section 2: Service Requirements
Active members shall complete a minimum of 10 hours of civic service per year. Of these, at least 5 hours must be dedicated to chapter-run service activities. All service must benefit the high school or the broader community and must be conducted under the direction and approval of the chapter advisor.
Civic service refers to voluntary actions taken to support and improve the well-being of the public or the community. These activities should contribute to the common good, promote civic responsibility, and help address local needs. Examples of civic service include organizing community clean-ups, assisting at food banks, supporting school events, tutoring peers, or helping at public libraries, shelters, or community centers.
To ensure the integrity and purpose of civic service, the following types of activities do not qualify toward the service requirement:
Volunteer hours required by another club, group, or organization (e.g., religious groups, scouting organizations, athletic teams)
Any activity that directly benefits a for-profit or private business, including unpaid internships or work experience
Service completed during school hours or while receiving pay for the work
Service must be completed outside of regular school hours and without compensation. It must be clearly aligned with the goals of public service, focusing on meaningful contributions to the school or broader community. If there is any uncertainty about whether a service activity meets these criteria, members should consult the chapter advisor in advance for approval.
Section 3: Dues
Members must pay annual chapter dues set at the first meeting of the year. Payments must be made by the deadline established by the chapter advisor. Non-payment of dues may result in removal from the chapter.
Section 4: Attendance
Attendance at monthly chapter meetings is mandatory. Members are permitted no more than three absences per academic year. Excessive absences without valid justification may result in disciplinary action, including removal from the chapter.
Section 5: Compliance
Active members who fail to meet the academic, service, dues, or attendance requirements outlined in this article will be subject to removal from the chapter, following review by the chapter advisor.
Article III: Officers
Section 1: Officer Positions
The chapter shall have three officers elected annually: President, Vice President, and Secretary. These officers must be active members in good standing.
Section 2: Election Process
Officers will be elected by a ranked-choice voice vote of all active members in good standing during the May meeting. Only members who meet all membership requirements may vote or run for office.
Section 3: Officer Responsibilities
Officers will meet with the chapter advisor once per month in addition to regular chapter meetings.
President
Preside over all meetings and represent the chapter at official functions.
Set meeting agendas in collaboration with the chapter advisor.
Ensure that chapter activities align with the mission of Rho Kappa and school policies.
Provide leadership and guidance to fellow officers and members.
Organize group service and activities for chapter members.
Vice President
Assist the President in all duties and assume leadership in the President’s absence.
Oversee the coordination of service activities and member participation.
Support committees and ensure the successful execution of chapter events.
Organize group service and activities for chapter members.
Secretary
Record and maintain accurate minutes of all meetings.
Keep attendance records.
Manage chapter communications, including announcements and reminders.
Organize group service and activities for chapter members.
Maintain social media (Instagram) and Canvas page.
Section 4: Term of Office
All officers shall serve a one-year term running from June to May. Officers must remain in good standing throughout their term or be subject to removal and replacement at the discretion of the chapter advisor.