For its exemplary record of leadership, service, and efforts to improve the school and community, the National Honor Society (NHS) awarded the Decorah High School chapter of NHS the Service Award of Excellence.

Service is a strong aspect of the Decorah NHS chapter, with events occurring throughout the year. Last fall NHS members created a Krusty Krab cafe for families to attend before the Saturday matinee performance of “SpongeBob the Musical.” This included themed food, a photo booth with character cut-outs, art activities, and colorful decorations. DHS received Special Recognition for Community Engagement from the Iowa High School Musical Theater Awards for the Krusty Krab lunch event sponsored by the chapter.

Members also volunteer at Holiday Lights and have started “Pass the Bricks,” a program where students collect and recycle Legos to create new kits to donate to community members. In addition, at least three times a year, the NHS hosts a social during lunch. The entire student body is invited to play games and connect with others. They also created the Stuffed Animal Sleepover Project for students in second grade at John Cline Elementary. Furthermore, NHS members have supported the Special Olympics Unified Champion initiative by helping with events, creating the design for a school-wide t-shirt, and hosting a shootout at the Unified Champion basketball game, with all proceeds going toward Special Olympic equipment purchases.

“Over the years, our strong NHS leaders have developed a system of committees that has led to more participation, greater commitment, and more meaningful ways to contribute to our school and greater community. Our current members are building on that foundation with new ideas and energy,” stated advisors Shannon Horton and Liz Fox.

The NHS Chapter Pillar Awards are prestigious recognitions to celebrate the outstanding achievements of NHS chapters across the country. NHS is supported by its parent organization, the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), which also oversees the National Association of Student Councils.

 “Receiving an NHS Chapter Pillar Award reflects the extraordinary commitment of students who are making a real difference in their school and community,” said NASSP CEO Ronn Nozoe. “The Decorah High School chapter shows what’s possible when young people come together to lead, serve, and inspire others.”