The NJHS Outstanding Achievement Award (OAA) is designed to recognize accomplishments of middle level students and their dedication to the pillars of NJHS while giving them a jump-start on their quest toward higher education. The award recognizes 500 exceptional NJHS students with $500 from the New Mexico Education Trust Board’s 529 college savings plan. This year’s selection process has changed, so read carefully to find out how you can best support your students and help them make their college goals more affordable.

Student Accounts and Adviser Verification

The most important step before beginning the OAA process will be to ensure that your chapter members have a student account. NJHS members are encouraged to create a student account with a parent or guardian. Signing up with a student account allows members to receive the most up-to-date information about Honor Society programs and activities, which are delivered straight to their inbox. (Note that students under age 13 will need to submit a completed COPPA Parental Consent Form in order to create an account.)

As an adviser, you will receive a daily notification email that lists each student who has created an account. You will need to log in and verify each student. This is important, because until members have been verified, they will not be able to access the OAA or other NJHS member functions. Visit www.njhs.us/studentaccount to find answers to any questions you may have, and be sure to share the link with your chapter members.

The New Process

Instead of having advisers nominate members, students will now complete an application and advisers will be asked to complete a certification form supporting their application. Be sure your NJHS members are familiar with the new process:

  • NJHS members will complete the online OAA application and request recommendation and adviser certification support.
  • Advisers will certify each application and provide feedback, verifying that the applicant is an NJHS member in good standing. Recommenders will complete an online recommendation form.
  • Applicants must be currently enrolled in grades 6–9 at an NJHS-affiliated school.
  • Previous winners are not eligible, but previous nominees who did not win may apply for the award.

OAA applications will be accepted through February 13, 2020. Encourage your students to take this opportunity to receive recognition for their accomplishments and get closer to their postsecondary dreams. Visit www.njhs.us/oaa to learn more about the new process—and encourage your NJHS students to apply!