Hermiston High School advocates for NHS stoles at 2025 graduation ceremony

Under the bright lights of the Hermiston School District boardroom, passionate voices echoed the sentiments of students and educators alike during the regular school board meeting on May 12, 2025. The focal point of the evening was a heartfelt plea from members of the National Honor Society (NHS) advocating for the right to wear their stoles during graduation ceremonies.

Jesse Kirkpatrick, a dedicated NHS member, opened the discussion by emphasizing the significance of the organization, which not only fosters academic excellence but also encourages community service. He urged the board to reconsider their stance on allowing NHS members to don their stoles at graduation, highlighting the dedication and hard work that students invest in maintaining their membership.

Following Kirkpatrick, Erica Wells, the NHS advisor and a language arts teacher, shared her personal journey with the society. She recounted her own induction as a freshman and the pride she felt in representing the school's most academically ambitious students. Wells passionately argued that wearing the NHS stole is not merely a privilege but a recognition of the countless hours of volunteer work and leadership that students contribute to their school and community. She noted that her current students collectively volunteer over a thousand hours each year while maintaining high academic standards.

The voices of students echoed through the room as Wells shared messages from her club members who could not attend. Each letter reinforced the idea that the NHS stole symbolizes hard work, dedication, and a commitment to service. Students expressed that wearing the stole at graduation would not only honor their achievements but also inspire future generations to strive for excellence.

The meeting also featured updates on school events, including a successful prom week and an evening of excellence that celebrated student achievements. The student board representative, Ari Bazan, highlighted the vibrant participation in school activities and the pride felt by students and staff alike.

As the meeting progressed, the board members listened attentively, acknowledging the importance of recognizing student achievements. The discussion surrounding the NHS stoles sparked a broader conversation about how schools celebrate academic and extracurricular accomplishments.

In closing, the board was left with a poignant question: If graduation is a time to celebrate student journeys and achievements, why not allow NHS members to wear their stoles as a symbol of their hard work? The outcome of this discussion remains to be seen, but the voices of Hermiston's students have certainly made an impact, urging the board to consider the significance of recognition in fostering a culture of excellence within the school community.