National Jr. Honor Society Induction
The John W. Dodd Middle School chapter of the National Junior Honor Society added 68 new members to its ranks in an evening ceremony held in the building's cafeteria. There was a standing room only crowd on hand to celebrate this momentous occasion.
The program opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and the J.W. Dodd Select Chorale, under the leadership of music teacher Sherill Spruill, singing "The Star Spangled Banner." The ceremonial speeches that followed praised the inductees for their pursuit of excellence and their acceptance into this elite group.
"Today we honor you and celebrate your hard work. You have achieved… you are our shining stars," lauded J.W. Dodd Intermediate School Principal John O'Mard. "Making choices is the single most important thing you will do. Making good choices is what earned you a place here tonight," added Board of Education Vice President Debra Mulé. "You are an inspiration to us and we are proud of you. You inspire us to continue to do the work to support you. Think about your potential, and stay connected with your inner feelings," advised Superintendent of Schools Dr. Kishore Kuncham. Members of the Freeport High School National Honor Society and J.W. Dodd Middle School guidance counselors Diane Durdaller and Denise Lloyd were also on hand to acknowledge the accomplishments of these newest inductees.
After they had each received a red rose, the students were instructed to give the rose to their parents in gratitude for all of the hard work they had done to help the inductees achieve this academic honor. The recognized parents, along with friends and siblings, applauded the accomplishments of their children who have not only maintained a consistently high academic standing, but have also exhibited good character, service to their school and community, leadership and citizenship. These are the five major character traits valued for acceptance into the National Junior Honor Society.
The candle lighting and pledge ceremony, conducted by National Junior Honor Society advisors Danielle Ballard and Annette Jones, brought each student as their name was called to the stage, where they stood until all were assembled to recite the National Junior Honor Society Pledge. After concluding the program, all who had gathered for this celebration were invited to enjoy refreshments and cake donated by the J.W. Dodd Middle School PTA.