Extracurriculars

Joe Straus III  Middle School Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society (NJHS) 

What is NJHS? 

For over eighty years, National Junior Honor Society has been a leader among organizations and societies that encourage recognition for students exemplifying outstanding achievement in the areas of scholarship, character, leadership, and service and citizenship. Below are descriptions of each pillar.

Scholarship - Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of a 94, or an equivalent standard of excellence in order to receive an invitation to join Straus Middle School's NJHS.  (Each school chapter is allowed to require a different cumulative GPA.)
Service - This involves voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation.
Leadership - Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, and idea contributors. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.
Character - The student of good character is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and maintains a clean disciplinary record.
Citizenship - The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic engagement; has a high regard for freedom and justice; respects democracy; respects the law for all citizens at the local, state, and federal levels; and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility in activities such as scouting, community organizations, or school clubs.
 

How are students able to become members of NJHS? 

To gain membership students must be in 7th grade and have a scholarship average of 94 or above. If they are eligible to submit an application form and character recommendation forms, A faculty committee appointed by Mrs. Peralta will review the student information forms and submit names for membership. Simply filling out the information form does not guarantee admission into the National Junior Honor Society. The National Junior Honor Society advisors will not be part of this selection committee. Students must also obtain recommendations from their teachers. 

2025-2026 Applicants:

Applications are due Friday February 21, 2025 at 4:00pm. Applicants will be contacted during the week of March 21st about the decision concerning your membership. 

Deadlines:

Summer and Fall hours due in December. Email a photo of your service log to one of your advisors.

Advisors:

Mrs. Garza and Mrs. Allen

Meeting Time/Location: Invitation Only:

First Friday of each month at 8am in the library

Obligations of members: 

Members will participate in opportunities to gain experience in leadership roles and help with community service projects. 

They must complete at least 20 community service hours for the year. Announcements will be communicated of important dates of events that can take place on campus and/or on their own individual projects. 

Students must maintain a scholarship average of 90 for the remainder of the year with active participation and attendance for all NJHS meetings and school events. 

For more information visit https://www.njhs.us/