The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organizations recognizing outstanding high school students who demonstrate excellence in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Local chapters of the Honor Society are governed by two sets of documents: The National Constitution and the local chapter bylaws. The NHS National Constitution was developed and is monitored by the National Council that serves as the governing body of the national organizations. The day-to-day administration of the Societies is undertaken by the staff of the national office.
All chapters must adopt and abide by the provisions of the National Constitution, per their chartering agreement with the national organization. The National Handbook, available from the NHS sales office, elaborates on the items found in the Constitution—including an outline for local bylaws—and provides guidance for advisers in applying the Constitution to their work with their chapters.
NHS is more than just an honor roll. The Honor Society chapter establishes rules for membership that are based upon a student's outstanding performance in the areas of scholarship, service, leadership, and character (plus citizenship for NJHS). Students who complete the application and essay will be judged by a committee of teachers and administrators on the following areas:
Scholarship: Students who have a cumulative grade point average 4.0 or a higher cumulative average meet the scholarship requirement for membership. These students are then eligible for consideration on the basis of service, leadership, and character (and citizenship for NJHS).
Service: This quality is defined through the voluntary contributions made by a student to the school or community, done without compensation and with a positive, courteous, and enthusiastic spirit.
Leadership: Student leaders are those who are resourceful, good problem solvers, promoters of school activities, idea-contributors, dependable, and persons who exemplify positive attitudes about life. Leadership experiences can be drawn from school or community activities while working with or for others.
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 good and clean lifestyle.
Citizenship: The student who demonstrates citizenship understands the importance of civic involvement, has a high regard for freedom, justice, and democracy, and demonstrates mature participation and responsibility through involvement with such activities as scouting, community organizations, and school clubs.