Malow Junior High
National Junior Honor Society
NEOPHYTE SELECTION CRITERIA 2016
Dear
Congratulations! Your academic excellence has made you eligible for possible consideration into
the National Junior Honor Society.
Being selected to join the National Junior Honor Society is a privilege that the Faculty
Council takes very seriously. The NJHS is not an honor society based solely on grade point average,
but consists of the brightest and most well-rounded students. Your hard work and scholastic
ability have gotten you to this first step in becoming a member. Criteria for invitation includes a
minimum overall GPA of 3.50 along with maintaining minimum citizenship requirements. It is now up
to you to provide the Faculty Council with the information needed to decide if you meet the criteria for
selection. This criterion forms the foundation upon which the organization and its activities are
built.
APPLICATIONS ARE ONLY AVAILABLE ON LINE
You will need to download, fill out and submit your application by 3:10 p.m. December 4, 2015
Malow’s website address is http://www.macomb.k12.mi.us/utica/mjh/index.html
Let’s get started: Go to http://www.macomb.k12.mi.us/utica/mjh/index.html Download the six forms
listed below. You can do this on the left side of the home page under Application for NJHS and NJHS
By- Laws.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Member Information Sheet (must be returned)
Student Information Sheet Essay (must be returned)
Student Activity Form (must be returned)
2 Neophyte recommendations (complete and return)*
*Applicant Must Supply Envelopes and ask for recommendations from teachers by December
1, 2015
5. NJHS Community Service Verification Form (must be returned upon completion)
6. NJHS Membership By-Laws (print a copy do not submit with application)
The criteria the Faculty Council will use in evaluating your application are:
Co-curricular Activities:
______ At least one activity/club/team
_____ Accomplishments listed for each activity
Leadership:
_____ At least one demonstration of leadership quality
Community Activities (Service):
______ At least one community service activity
Essay: SEE DOWNLOAD FOR INSTRUCTIONS:
______ To be organized and written by the student.
______ Times New Roman; 12 pt. font; double-spaced; one-inch margins
______ Multiple paragraphs
______ Explanation of four tenets (scholarship, leadership, character, service)
______ Makes logical sense; flows well; proves point
______ Essay style: Introduction; body; conclusion/closing
______ Punctuation; spelling; grammar
Recommendations Letters: *
*APPLICANT MUST SUPPLY ENVELOPES AND ASK FOR RECOMMENDATION
LETTERS FROM TEACHERS BY DECEMBER 1, 2015
______ At least two recommendation letters are needed, one MUST be from a Malow staff member
______ The person making the recommendation letter must sign the seal over the seal of the envelope
______ Depth of the recommendation (show that the person really knows you one or more years)
______ Ratings of Leadership; Service; Character (must be a 4 or 5)
______ Overall ratings from Malow staff (general recommendations)
_______ Students place recommendation letters in large envelope (That you will supply) with rest of the
requirements.
If, after this process, you are selected by the Faculty Council to be a neophyte in the NJHS, you will
be notified in December. Good luck to you!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Mrs. Witt. Michelle.witt@uticak12.org.
Member Information Sheet
Name: ____________________________________________ Present Grade Level: 8 or 9
Address: ________________________________________________________________________
City: __________________________________________ Zip Code: ____________________ __
Parent phone number:___________________Parent email address:______________________
We will use a reminder application that will allow us to periodically send out NJHS reminders to our
members via text message, to participate, simply text (586) 623-4497 with the message @c87386. If
you would like additional information please visit https://www.remind.com
Polo Size: (Please circle one of the following adult sized shirts.)
XS
S
M
L
XL
I would like to be considered for membership. The nomination packet (AVAILABLE ON-LINE ONLY)
includes the following:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Member Information Sheet (must be returned)*
Student Information Sheet Essay (must be returned)*
Student Activity Form (must be returned)*
2 Neophyte recommendations (complete and return) *
NJHS Community Service Verification Form (this from is included for your convenience, 15
hours of community service is documented here and due by May 1, 2016)
6. NJHS Membership By-Laws (print a copy do not submit with application)
*Required application packets DUE NO LATER THAN DECEMBER 4, 2015 by 3:10 p.m.
All contents to be included in a large envelope supplied by you. NO EXCEPTIONS!
The signatures below confirm that the application, criteria including the essay,
is a reflection of the student’s OWN work.
If accepted, a $28.00 membership fee is required no later than the first meeting (fee includes polo,
pin, and certificate).
I have read, understand, and am willing to fulfill the responsibilities expected of an NJHS member
according to the Malow Junior High National Junior Honor Society By-Laws.
Candidate signature: _________________________________
Parent/guardian signature: _____________________________
N a t i o n a l J u n i o r H o n o r S o c i e ty
Student Activity Information Sheet
Name of Candidate____________________________________________ Grade:____________
Directions:
 Please complete all sections of this sheet
 Please print clearly or type
 Brag about yourself, don't be modest
 If you have more items than space provided, please list only your most important. Use
your essay portion for details and other accomplishments that you would also like to share.
Co-Curricular Activities: List all in-school and community activities in which you have participated
since the seventh grade. Include clubs, teams, musical groups, major accomplishments, etc.
Activity
Grade (7, 8, 9)
Honors, awards or accomplishments
Example: Malow Cheerleading
MVP
______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Leadership Positions: List all elected or appointed leadership positions held in school and the
community since the seventh grade. Examples include: club/group officer, elected team captain, etc.
Activity
Grade (7, 8, 9)
Honors, awards or accomplishments
______________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________________
Community Activities: List community activities in which you have participated, and note any major
accomplishments in each. These should be any activities outside of school in which you participated for
the betterment of your community. Examples include: church groups, clubs, boy/girl scouts, etc.
Activity
Grade (7, 8, 9)
Group leader, supervisor
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________________
N a t i o n a l J u n i o r H o n o r S o c i e ty
Student Information Sheet Essay
Below you will find a description of qualities that are reflective of students in the National
Junior Honor Society. Explain on a separate piece of paper how you personally believe that
you have exhibited each of these four characteristics. Each area should be covered in a complete
paragraph. Please be specific and provide details. Don't be bashful when explaining your
accomplishments; be proud of what you have done.
1. Scholarship (Academic Success)
2. Participation & Leadership (Include all school clubs, teams, performance groups, and
extracurricular activities in which you are involved; also include any activities sponsored by
community or church or other youth groups and include any work experiences. Finally be
sure to include your accomplishments and achievements while participating in each of these
activities. Emphasize your leadership experience. Remember that you do not have to be
in charge of an activity in order to demonstrate leadership qualities.)
3. Citizenship & Character (Citizenship is your commitment to your city, state, and/or
nation. Character is who you are when no one is looking. This student also demonstrates
courtesy, concern, and respect toward each and every individual, regardless of differences.
She/he consistently exemplifies the desirable qualities of cheerfulness, helpfulness,
friendliness, trustworthiness, and fairness.)
4. Service (Organizations and activities for which you have volunteered your time to benefit
others not including family. This student has demonstrated a willingness to volunteer, to
gladly take on tasks that benefit the school and/or the community, to assist others
enthusiastically whenever called upon to do so.)
5. Why do you want to become a member of the National Junior Honor Society?
* Must be typed in 12 pt Times New Roman, double-spaced with one inch margins.
* Double check your student information sheet to make sure you have covered all of the
criteria.
National Junior Honor Society of Malow Junior High School
Neophyte Recommendation Form (Print 2)
Dear____________________,
________________________ is a candidate for induction as a neophyte in the NJHS of the
National Junior Honor Society at Malow Junior High School. According to the NJHS charter,
neophytes and members must show distinction in the areas of scholarship, leadership, service
and character. The candidate is requesting that you, based on your experience with him/her,
provide a rating in these areas. Please complete the following and return this form TO THE
STUDENT in a SEALED ENVELOPE with your signature over the seal by____________________
Please use the following criteria to rate the student in each of the following categories.
1= problem area 2=unreliable 3=average 4= above average 5=exceptional NA=not applicable/not sure
DEPENDABLILITY

1
3
4
5
NA
1
2
3
4
5
NA
1
2
3
4
5
NA
1
2
3
4
5
NA
1
2
3
4
5
NA
Takes initiative, helps others become leaders, sacrifices his/her needs for the needs of the group, displays
confidence in self, displays decision-making techniques, responsible
SERVICE

2
Positive, productive attitude, tries to motivate others, works through problems
LEADERSHIP

NA
Academically honest, is not easily swayed by the group, accepting of setbacks, trustworthy
ATTITUDE

5
Accepts others’ differences, mediates, flexible with change, understanding
INTEGREITY

4
Positive in class, helps others, allows others to express their ideas, works well in small peer groups
COMPATIBILITY

3
Work on time, on time to class, meets expectations & follows through
PARTICIPATIONS 1

2
1
2
3
4
5
NA
Helps others, volunteers time for those in need, active and dependable, contributes to the group
How long have you known this candidate? ________________
Please list any other information that will help the council make their decision on the back of this sheet.
I do_____ I do not ______ recommend this student for neophyte status in the Malow Junior High School Chapter
of National Junior Honor Society.
__________________________ _____________________________ _____________
Signature
Title/Position
Date
This is a confidential form and will not be shared with the candidate.
NJHS Community Service Verification Form:
Your Name (print clearly): __________________________________________
Date: _____________________
Number of Hours: __________________
Event Description: _______________________________________________
Parent/Teacher/Event Sponsor Signature: _____________________________
NJHS Community Service Verification Form:
Your Name (print clearly): __________________________________________
Date: _____________________
Number of Hours: __________________
Event Description: _______________________________________________
Parent/Teacher/Event Sponsor Signature: _____________________________
NJHS Community Service Verification Form:
Your Name (print clearly): __________________________________________
Date: _____________________
Number of Hours: __________________
Event Description: _______________________________________________
Parent/Teacher/Event Sponsor Signature: _____________________________
NJHS Community Service Verification Form:
Your Name (print clearly): __________________________________________
Date: _____________________
Number of Hours: __________________
Event Description: _______________________________________________
Parent/Teacher/Event Sponsor Signature: _____________________________
Malow Junior Honor Society Chapter By-laws (January 26, 2010)
Article 1: Name
The name of this chapter shall be the Malow Junior National Honor Society Chapter of the National Junior Honor Society
which appears on the charter granted by the National Honor Society duly signed by the National Secretary.
Article 2: Purpose
The purpose of this organization shall be to create enthusiasm for scholarship, to stimulate a desire to render service, to
promote leadership, to develop character, and to encourage citizenship in the students of Malow Junior High.
Article 3: Faculty Council
Section 1. The faculty council shall consist of five undisclosed voting faculty members appointed annually by the
principal. No principal may be included on the faculty council.
Section 2. The term of the faculty council shall be one academic year. Members may be appointed to consecutive terms.
Section 3. The chapter advisor(s) shall be non -voting sixth/seventh members of the faculty council.
Section 4. The faculty council shall put on probation those students who fall below standards outlined in the by -laws.
Students on probation cannot attend meetings, activities, etc. until their achievement meets the standards.
Section 5. The faculty council shall meet at least once a year t o select members and to consider dismissal, non-selection, and
warning cases.
Section 6. Appeals of non-selection or dismissal shall follow the UCS guidelines with the first step being a written letter of
appeal to the principal and faculty council submitted within 14 days.
Article 4: Membership
Section 1. Membership is an honor bestowed upon a student. Selection for membership is by faculty council and is based on
outstanding scholarship, character, leadership, service, and citizenship.
Section 2. Candidates become members when inducted at a special ceremony.
Article 5: Selection of Members
Section 1. To be eligible for membership, the candidate must be a member of the 8 t h or 9th grade at Malow Junior High School.
Section 2. Candidates must have a cumulative scholastic average of 3.5 GPA. Candidates shall th en b e eva lu a t ed on th e b a si s
of s er vi c e, l ea d ers h i p , c ha ra c ter, a n d c i ti zen s h ip .
Section 3. Prior to selection, the following shall occur:
a.
Student's academic and citizenship records shall be reviewed to determine eligibility.
b. Students who are eligible ("candidates") shall be notified and asked to complete and submit the application
prior to the published deadline for further consideration for selection.
c.
The faculty council shall review the applications in order to determine membership.
d. Acceptance/denial letters will be delivered to the students’ 6th hour class.
Section 4. The selection of each member to the chapter shall be by a majority vote of the faculty council consisting of five
faculty members selected by the Principal. The chapter advisor(s) shall the 6th (7th) non-voting member of the faculty council.
Section 5. A description of the selection process shall be published in an official school publication which is widely
available in a timely fashion to all students and parents of the school. The selection procedure shall be determined by the
faculty council and shall be consistent with the rules and regulations of the National Junior Honor Society.
Section 6. The National Council and the NASSP shall not review the judgment of the faculty council regarding selection of
individual members to local chapters.
Section 7. Appeals of non-selection to member status shall follow UCS guidelines with the first step being a written appeal to the
Principal and faculty council submitted within 14 days.
Article 6: Dismissal
Section 1. The procedure of dismissal shall be determined by the faculty council in compliance with the rules and regulations of
the National Junior Honor Society.
Section 2. Members who fall below the standards which were the basis for selection or do not fulfill service/attendance
requirements shall be promptly warned in writing by the chapter advisor and given one academic quarter to correct the
deficiency, except that in the case of flagrant violation of school rules or civil laws. In this case, a member does n ot
necessarily, have to be warned to be dismissed.
Section 3. Members may only be placed on probation status once in an academic year.
Section 4. In all cases of impending dismissal, a member shall have a right to written notification of charges.
Section 5. A member who has been dismissed may appeal the decision of the faculty council under the same rules for
disciplinary appeals in the school district.
Section 6. Dismissed members may apply for membership the following year provided they meet the eligibility requirements.
Section 7. The National Council and the NASSP shall hear no appeals in dismissal cases.
Article 7: Nomination and Election of Officers (Board Members)
S e c t i o n 1 . T h e o f f i c e r s o f t h e c h a p t e r s h a l l b e 5 o r 6 b o a r d m e m b e r s d e p e n d i n g o n nominations and election
results. Nominated members must accept nomination only if duties and responsibilities are understood.
Section 2. Board members shall be elected at a regular meeting of the Malow Junior Honor Society Chapter.
Article 8: Board Member Duties and Responsibilities
Section 1. The president of the board presides at meetings/ provides direction.
Section 2. The vice-president of the board serves in the absence of the president; other duties as directed.
Section 3. The secretary records attendance and proceedings of meetings; attends to clerical duties
Section 4. The historian will keep written and photographic record of all Malow Junior Honor Society events.
Section 5. The treasurer keeps records of all financial matters
Section 6. Board members are required to speak at the induction ceremony.
Article 9: Meetings
Section 1. The chapter shall meet as often as bi-monthly.
Section 2. Special meetings approved by the board may be called by the chapter advis or(s). Section 3. Chapter shall conduct
meetings according to Robert's Rules of Order in all points not expressly provided for in these by-laws.
Article 10: Activities
Section 1. The chapter shall be involved in at least one service project during the scho ol year.
Section 2. Each grading period, members shall individually volunteer for one service activity and record the service on the
verification sheet. Verification sheets must be turned in by the end of each grading period to the chapter advisor(s).
Section 3. All members shall regularly participate in these projects.
Section 4. These projects shall have the following characteristics: fulfill a need within the school or community, have the
support of the administration or faculty, be appropriate and educationally defensible, and be well-planned, organized, and executed.
Article 11: Attendance
Section 1. Members must attend all general membership meetings.
Section 2. Attendance will be monitored by the Secretary or the Vice -President in the Secretary's absence.
Section 3. Each person is allowed no more than two absences at membership meetings. Three tardies count as one absence.
Tardiness is defined as arrival after the meeting has been called to order. Failure to comply will result in disci plinary
action and possible removal.
Article 12: Amendments
Section 1. These by-laws may be amended by a two -thirds vote of the chapter, provided the Advisor(s) and/or the Faulty
Council have approved the proposed amendment.
Section 2. Sections dealing with revisions to the procedures for selection, disciplining, and dismissal of members can only be
changed by the Faculty Council and/or Advisor(s) though input from the chapter in encouraged.