Why is NSHSS worth it: An Educator's View
The National Society of High School Scholars is an incredible organization that offers a wide variety of opportunity to teachers and students through financial and informational support. First, having attended several of their annual events at the Carter Center, I have observed the diversity and increasing number of students who have become members and taken advantage of all that this organization offers them. At this particular event, a committee of college admissions personnel from a wide variety of universities presents vital information to students regarding the best methods to prepare themselves as well as their applications for admissions to 4-year schools. There is a question-answer period that really helps students to gain important information. In addition, students are able to meet with these people later during the event to discuss specifics.There are so many students who attend schools where counselors are so overworked that they are not able to provide specific college admissions guidance to their students. I have witnessed how helpful this one session is to students and parents. In addition, NSHSS offers many scholarship and internship opportunities to their students.
As teacher, I have been made aware that NSHSS also provides grants to educators for professional development as well as other professional needs. I am well aware of the financial struggles that many teachers face daily; we often spend our own money in our classrooms to be sure that our students have everything they need, and since our salaries are often meager, we seldom have the chance to attend any type of professional development. Yet as education changes, we must remain current regarding curriculum and student needs. These grants enable us to attend professional conferences that we would not otherwise be able to afford. I am so appreciative of the generosity of the National Society of High School Scholars to all educators. There are not many organizations that actually recognize good educators and provide financial support to them as well.
After attending several events I am continuously impressed with the emphasis NSHSS places on students and teachers through providing them with guidance and opportunities. They have reached out to several business partners throughout the country and have managed to garner their support as well. This organization is growing quickly and I am incredibly proud to be a part of it. I am sincerely thankful to NSHSS not only as a teacher, but also as a citizen who cares about young people gaining support to help to make them successful adults.