The Hampton Bays Middle School held its annual candlelight induction ceremony for the National Junior Honor Society on April 5. The NJHS, sponsored by the National Association of Secondary School Principals, ranks as one of the oldest and most prestigious national organizations for students. Chapters exist in more than 6,000 schools, and since 1929, millions of students have been selected for membership.

To be eligible for membership consideration, students must have a cumulative GPA of 92 or better. In addition, candidates must meet the high standards of leadership, service, citizenship and character. Service and leadership are based on the student’s participation in community or school activities. Character is measured in terms of integrity, behavior, ethics and cooperation with both students and faculty, and citizenship is demonstrated by civic involvement.  

Students are reviewed by a faculty council of five members who are appointed by the principal. This year, 23 students from the eighth-grade class were inducted. Students inducted were: Joshua Aube, Tiffany Brenes, Zachary Brochu, Kaylee Catena, Stephanie Cruz, Lauren DePasquale, Vanessa Farrell, McCaila Grismer, Jenna Haines, Nicholas Kolb, Antonio Kull, Alexandra Macholz, Erik Morastitla, Wendy Moreno, Rachel Moscato, Christian Oakland, Christina Pasca, Annalise Romagnoli, Amelia Salvatore, Bankesha Samuel, Rachel Smith, Julia Tetrault and Cindy Tzitzimititla.

“We are very proud to recognize these outstanding members of our student body,” said chapter adviser Laurie O’Halloran. “National Junior Honor Society members are chosen for – and then expected to continue – their exemplary contributions to the school and community.”