Elizabeth Bailey
South Decatur Elementary School inducted 19 members into its chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society on Friday as parents and peers witnessed the event.
Sixth grade teacher Nancy Crabill opened the ceremony by noting that this chapter is the first in Decatur County. The elementary level organization was founded in 2008, and the school, Crabill noted, began working to establish a chapter last March. The process was begun by former principal Nita McNealy, who attended the induction. When it was announced that she was present, students from third through sixth grade stood to see her.
Crabill continued by noting that the National Elementary Honor Society (NEHS) is the newest in a set of organizations with a long history. Junior highs, middle schools and high schools have participated in the program for many years, she explained.
“We are carrying on a tradition,” she said.
Not only do NEHS members need to achieve high marks in their academic work, they should also be self-directed and good future leaders, she continued.
To be eligible, students must be on the all A honor roll for two of the last three semesters, Crabill explained. The earliest a student may qualify is the spring semester of their fourth grade year.
NEHS embodies the honor society principles of scholarship, responsibility, service and leadership, each represented by a candle at the ceremony.
The students stood to repeat the NEHS pledge before being joined by their parents to receive their pins, as well as a bunch of daisies.
For Decatur County Community Schools Superintendent Dr. Dan Roach, it was a very positive step for the elementary at the south end of the county.
“It is very rewarding to see kids strive for leadership and academic success at an early age,” he said.
He continued by noting that the many parents who attended the ceremony are a sure sign of the support system that enables the students to achieve.
Crabill told the audience of students to continue working hard, as there will be another induction in the spring.
