For its exemplary record of leadership, service, and efforts to improve the school and community, the National Honor Society awarded Arlington High School the Chapter of Distinction award. This is their second time being nationally recognized, as they also received a Pillar of Distinction award last year for their dedication to service. NHS is supported by its parent organization, the National Principals Association (NPA), which also oversees the National Association of Student Councils.
Last year, Arlington National Honor Society members met monthly and participated in impactful service projects in the school and community. Members honored local veterans by cataloging WWI veterans, serving breakfast at the school’s Veterans Day Program, and raising money for a memorial screen in the new school building. They made connections with younger students in the district by becoming their Lunch and Recess buddies throughout the school year, collected donations for the Salvation Army canned food drive, held cake raffles, helped with the Women's Resource Center Turkey Trot, and participated in a day of service at Serenity Springs and Arlington Manor.
"The NHS Chapter of Distinction Award celebrates chapters that truly embody what the National Honor Society stands for—students who don't just excel academically but actively strengthen their communities," said NPA CEO Ronn Nozoe. "The Arlington High School chapter demonstrates how powerful it can be when young leaders channel their talents toward meaningful service and positive change."
Current NHS President, Allie Settlage, shares that “this is such an amazing honor and testament to our school and community. Oftentimes, it’s difficult to feel appreciated when you come from such a small town. Fortunately, with this award, it shines a light on the fact that all this work is for something greater and that our efforts truly make a difference.”
Similarly, NHS Adviser Lindsey Fenstermaker shares that the chapter “went above and beyond to embrace what the community values: history, tradition, and growing together as a school and community.”
The NHS Chapters of Distinction is a national recognition program created to honor chapters that demonstrate strong leadership, sound operations and a deep commitment to the pillars of the Honor Society. This distinction recognizes chapters that meet all Essential Standards and excel in key areas such as student governance and leadership development.