RCS High School inducted 28 students into the National Honor Society (NHS) on Thursday, April 23, during a ceremony held in the high school auditorium. The new inductees, comprised of sophomores, juniors, and one senior, were presented with their membership cards and honored for exemplifying the four pillars of NHS: scholarship, service, leadership, and character.
As part of the selection process, high school faculty and staff complete a comprehensive survey evaluating the nominated students' qualifications. A five-member faculty council then reviews the results to determine the final list of inductees. To be eligible, students must maintain a cumulative weighted grade point average of 90% or higher and have a strong attendance record. They are also required to be enrolled in a minimum of five credit-bearing classes, plus physical education, each semester, and must be pursuing an Advanced Regents Diploma. Additionally, nominated students complete a self-evaluation reflecting on how they demonstrate service, leadership, and character.
On the day of the ceremony, inductees are informed of their acceptance in a small celebratory tradition known as “tapping,” led by current NHS members.
NHS Co-Adviser Ms. Foley welcomed families and guests by highlighting the significance of the evening. She noted that being inducted into the National Honor Society is a meaningful milestone that reflects students’ dedication and hard work both in and out of the classroom.
Following her opening remarks, fellow Co-Adviser Ms. Cobb recognized this year’s NHS officers, thanking them for their leadership and service throughout the school year. The officers included Stephen Mathai, Isabella McSweeney, Carina Contento, Caileigh Burnham, Owen Smith, Hailey Visone, Paige Gottesman, and Lauren O’Connor.
The event concluded with words of inspiration and encouragement for the new inductees and their families from Co-President Isabella McSweeney: “Whatever you decide to do in life, remember your friends and family who have been with you every step of the way… Make sure to help lead others, just as others have helped lead you.”
Here are the 2026 RCS students elected to the National Honor Society, as announced:
Rachel Carkner
Carter Castagna
Myla Castagna
Paige Castagna
Ava Conlon
Olivia Datri
Madelen Espinoza
Ryan Fitzgerald
Adam Gardner
Naimah George-Burgess
Bella Grundman
Connor Howe
Madelyn Hart-St. Pierre
Allison Leonard
Kirsten Molino
Masey Raymond
Alexis Rice
Irelyn Rinella
Olivia Scott
Jadon Sim
Jack Smith
Sage Stumbaugh
Chinazo Uba
Xin Yi Lin
Cameron Einhorn
Laelah Perea
Aiden Sloan
Sandra Guzmán Ortiz