Benjamin Turner Academy inducts newest members of National Junior Honor Society

Fifteen Benjamin Turner Academy students were inducted into the National Junior Honor Society on Thursday, January 9, 2025. Families heartily gathered at the media center to watch their loved ones’ achievement. Acting Superintendent Dr. K. Veronica Smith and principal Doris Dapaah conferred awards to students during the event. 

“I’m kind of nervous, but at the same time I’m happy because that means I am on the right track for my education,” said Aiden Rhodes, a seventh grader at BTA. “I worked hard in sixth grade and the start of seventh grade so I can get here.” 

National Junior Honor Society is a national organization that recognizes scholars' academic achievements. Requirements for induction are to maintain a grade point average of 85% or above, provide service to the community and fulfill the pillars of leadership, scholarship, citizenship and service.

“I am so proud of all of the students,” said Kerry Macentee, English teacher and advisor for National Junior Honor Society. “They’re really showing themselves to respect themselves and be vital parts of our school community as well as the larger Mount Vernon community. This is one of the steps along the way to their success academically and beyond.” 

The event started off with a warm welcome from principal Doris Dapaah, who greeted the audience and shared her congratulations with the crowd. She shared what it means to be a member of the National Junior Honor Society and core values that individuals strive for.

Afterwards, Acting Superintendent Dr. K Veronica Smith came up to the podium to share her congratulatory remarks with the audience as well as read a poem entitled “The Man in the Glass.” She spoke about the meaning of the poem and how it represents self-love.

“When you take a look in the mirror, you have to like what you see, you have to like yourself,” said Dr. Smith. “The things that you do in life, you have to be happy about the choices you make. You have to make sure you always try to align yourself with positive people. You know right from wrong and do the right thing.”

Once the addresses were complete, six students went up one by one to light candles at the front of the stage that represented each of the pillars. Students shared what each of these pillars possess before they lit the candle.

 The ceremony ended with scholars taking the National Junior Honor Society pledge and receiving certificates before commemorating the ceremony with light bites and refreshments.