Four Pillars of the National Honor Society

Scholarship: Scholarship means a commitment to learning. A student is willing to spend hours in reading and study, knowing the lasting benefits of a cultivated mind. We should continue to learn even when formal education has ended, for education ends only with the end of life. Knowledge is one great element in life which leads to the highest success, and it can be acquired in only one way - through diligence and effort. Learning furnishes the lamp by which we read the past and the light which illuminates the future. Members have the charge to continually expand their world through the opportunities inherent in scholarship. 

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. Leadership should exert a wholesome influence on the school. In taking the initiative in class and school activities, the real leader strives to train and aid others to attain the same objective. The price of leadership is sacrifice - the willingness to yield one’s personal interests for the interest of others. A leader has self-confidence and will go forward when others hesitate. No matter what power and resources may exist in an organization, they are ineffectual without the guidance of a wise leader. Leadership is always needed; thus, to lead is a substantive charge to each of our members.

Service: Voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic attitude. In the routine of the day’s work, many opportunities arise to help others. Willingness to work for the benefit of those in need, without monetary compensation or without recognition, is the quality we seek in our membership.  We are committed to the idea of volunteering our time and abilities for the creation of a better tomorrow. 

Character: The student of good character upholds principles of morality and ethics; is cooperative; demonstrates high standards of honesty and reliability; shows courtesy, concern, and respect for others; and generally maintains a clean disciplinary record. Character is the force within each individual which distinguishes that person from others. It gives each one individuality. It is that without which no one can respect oneself, nor hope to attain the respect of others. It is this force of character which guides one through life and, when once developed, grows steadily.  Character is achieved and not received. It is the product of constant action, daily striving to make the right choice.  The problem of character is self-control. We must be in reality what we wish to appear to others. By demonstrating such qualities as respect, responsibility, trustworthiness, fairness, caring, and citizenship, we may hope to prove by example that we value character.