Growing up, academically gifted students in St. Francis look forward to applying for NHS as a sophomore; it is the prime goal of all overachievers. But starting this school year, the starting grade of NHS changed from tenth grade to eleventh grade. Prospective NHS members are disappointed, and are dying to know why this happened.

In past years, Sophomore students could apply to be inducted into NHS as juniors and be recognized for their hard work and dedication to not only academics, but also to being leaders in the school. But this is no longer the case, and NHS’s past adviser Megan Schmidt offers the answers everyone wants to know.

“In the past eligible students were invited to apply for NHS in the Spring trimester of their sophomore or junior year,” said Schmidt, “Now, students apply in the fall of their junior or senior year, so the process has only been postponed by one trimester.”

Schmidt was the person that came up with the idea for a number of reasons, including that most maturation occurs between eleventh and twelfth grade.

“During 11th and 12th grade, students are eligible for college classes and are more familiar with the rigorous standards NHS requires. Applicants also have more time to develop leadership skills and participate in service work, both requirements of NHS members.”

Some students found it disappointing.

“I really wanted to apply this year, so I’m kind of mad,” says Sophomore Zac Lachinski, “I feel like I’m missing out.”

According to Schmidt, students in tenth grade can still take action to prepare them for NHS. Keeping one’s grades up is key, but she also added that getting involved and developing character are just as important.

“NHS seems like a great academic opportunity,” said Lachinski, “I know that when the time comes, I’m going to join. It may not be as soon as I would have hoped, but it’s better late than never.”