The National Honor Society (NHS) is the nation's premier organization established to recognize outstanding high school students. More than just an honor roll, NHS serves to honor those students who have demonstrated excellence in the areas of Scholarship, Leadership, Service, and Character. These characteristics have been associated with membership in the organization since its beginning in 1921.

Chapter membership not only recognizes students for their accomplishments but challenges them to develop further through active involvement in school activities and community service.

NHS membership is a privilege bestowed upon students by the Faculty of the school, and not considered a right inherent to any student. Membership is granted only to those students selected by the Faculty Council on the condition of their having met the standards for selection based upon the four pillars of the National Honor Society: scholarship, leadership, character, and service.
 

Four main purposes of NHS:
1. to create enthusiasm for scholarship      
2. to stimulate a desire to render service
3. to promote leadership     
4. to develop character in the students of secondary schools
These purposes also translate into the criteria used for membership selection in each local chapter.

NHS: A Leadership & Service Organization for South Ridge Juniors and Seniors
Only juniors and seniors can be members of SR-NHS. After 1st-semester grade posting of sophomore or junior year, students with a qualifying cumulative GPA of 3.5 will receive a candidacy packet with instructions and materials for the application. A Faculty Council then meets to review applications and notification of selection or non-selection is mailed to students. Induction takes place in spring.

Membership in NHS is both an honor and a commitment.
In addition to maintaining academic standards and regular meeting attendance and participation, service is an obligation of membership. All chapters are required to sponsor a chapter service project in which all members are expected to participate. Additionally, each member shall have the responsibility for choosing and participating in an individual service project that reflects his or her particular talents and interests. This is in addition to the chapter projects to which all members contribute. 
The Society’s motto reflects this duty of service.  Noblesse oblige, a French phrase meaning “nobility obligates” or “nobility is an obligation.” In broader terms, it signifies that those of high rank or ability (or birth, in its original context) have the obligation to behave honorably, generously, and responsibly to others