Submitted by Bella Strickland, Neuse Charter School Student
Just off Durwood Stevenson Parkway is a high school with a student body of only 218. Although modest in size, its impact on Johnston County and the surrounding communities is far-reaching.
Over the past few years, Neuse Charter’s National Honor Society (NHS) has grown tremendously. What began as a small group of volunteers eager to give back to the community that shaped them has transformed into more than 40 dedicated members, nearly an entire grade level. These students uphold the organization’s core values of scholarship, leadership, character and service with pride.
Their efforts have not gone unnoticed. Last year alone, Neuse Charter’s NHS received recognition at both the state and national levels, with 33 students earning state honors and 28 students receiving Merit, Honor, or Ambassador Awards from the United Nations Association. Together, they contributed an astounding 3,615 service hours across 751 projects in just one year.
Their dedication does not stop there. The organization grows stronger with every passing semester and changing season. From organizing school events to serving the wider community, these students strive to make an impact wherever it is needed.
This fall, the NHS partnered with Seymour Johnson Air Force Base to create posters and banners for the homecoming of returning squadrons. Some students even attended the homecoming in person, ensuring their service extended beyond the school.
Building on the projects already completed or currently in progress, Neuse Charter School continues to advocate for compassion and leadership through the connections they have established. They will continue to partner with neighbors, organizations and one another. Neuse Charter demonstrates that meaningful impact is not measured by size, but by heart and persistence. With every hour volunteered and every small act of kindness, its students are showing what it means to lead through service.
Would you like to submit student work to be considered for Johnston Now Magazine? Reach out to our editor at jamie@jnowmedia.com.
