National Junior Honor Society

This year the National Junior Honor Society at Oak Lawn - Hometown Middle School was proud to induct 57 new members on May 11, 2016. As part of the petitioning process, each petitioning member prepared a digital portfolio which highlighted their scholarship, leadership, citizenship, character, and service. The digital portfolios were presented to a panel of teachers, administers, and even a few parents. In addition to the digital portfolio, both the petitioning and current members participated in a Capstone Project.

The purpose of the Capstone Project was to provide students with an opportunity to research and explore issues such as homelessness, health care, and our educational systems. The Capstone Project allowed students to work collaboratively, learn from guest speakers, and share their knowledge with their peers. This year we had a few guest speakers that engaged our students in conversations regarding these issues. Representatives from Girl Forward, a non-profit that mentors and provides educational opportunities to adolescent female refugees, was one of our guests this year. Through these opportunities, along with research and collaboration students learned about the political, social, and economic factors that impact these issues. The ultimate goal of the project was to raise awareness about these issues which impact local communities.

As the 2015-2016 school year concludes, our new members will already begin planning for next year's opportunities. The new members are looking forward to their future work volunteering and providing service to the community, as well as a new focus for next year’s Capstone Project.