Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer
Joining in a tradition of junior high/middle schools across the country, Marlinton Middle School formed a National Junior Honor Society chapter.
The first National Junior High Honor Society was formed in 1929.
The MMS chapter inducted its first 20 members Thursday evening. Ten eighth grade students and 10 seventh grade students vowed to uphold the five characteristics of members of the society – Scholarship, Service, Leadership, Character and Citizenship.
Principal Dustin Lambert was unable to attend the ceremony, so he asked language arts/reading teacher Steph-anie Burns to share his message with the students and their parents and family members.
“Allow me to extend my sincerest congratulatory regards to you, the first inductees into the Marlinton Middle School National Junior Honor Society,” Lambert wrote. “I apologize I could not be in attendance to witness this milestone in our school history. Your accomplishments do not go unnoticed and your dedication to scholarship, service, leadership, character and citizenship will serve you well as you continue in your education.
“To our parents and other family members present tonight, thank you for allowing Marlinton Middle School to witness the successes of your child. We know you play a vital part in securing resources and time needed to provide sound guidance and support at home and in our community.”
Director of special education, student services, transportation and tech coordinator Ruth Bland addressed the students on behalf of the Pocahontas County Board of Education and superintendent Terrence Beam.
Bland congratulated the students and asked them to continue to strive for academic achievements, as well as in service to their community. She added that she hoped to see them inducted into the Pocahontas County High School National Honor Society in a few years.
Members of the chapter are: Eighth grade – Brandon Burns, Courtney Buzzard, Josey Duncan, Cassidy Hardesty, Chloe Hardesty, Emily Henderson, Tessa Kiner, Savannah McMillion, Kinley Taylor and Maria Workman.
Seventh grade – Ethan Armstrong, Rachel Burns, Jaylee Doss, Ben Dunz, Max Ervine, Makenna McKenney, Hazel Riley, Rayna Smith, Macaden Taylor and Sarah Warder.