The Robert D. Stethem Educational Center’s National Technical Honors Society (NTHS) has been nationally recognized for its outstanding commitment and dedication to fostering a strong foundation of excellence. The chapter was awarded the Foundational Chapter Award by the national society, joining 16 other recipients across the country.
“We are grateful and honored to receive this chapter award,” said Monique Poole, NTHS advisor at Stethem. “We are striving for greatness, and it makes us feel we are on the right path. Thank you to everyone, school-based and on the board level, that continues to support us.”
As the NTHS advisor, Poole plays a crucial role in building relationships with students and aiding in the development of new leaders within the school and the community. “I also love working with NTHS because they provide an excellent framework for achievement and tools to further develop our scholars,” Poole stated. One of her favorite events each year is the winter induction ceremony. “We have the opportunity each year to acknowledge our staff and community for their contributions,” she said. “I am most proud of the leadership that is continuously demonstrated by our scholars. We have high expectations, but in turn, we provide the support needed to exceed them.”
Makaila Lowe, a rising senior and president of NTHS at Stethem, attributed the chapter’s recognition to its extensive community service efforts. “Giving back and making an impact on the community and working with different partner agencies is why we received the award,” Lowe explained.
Lowe shares Poole’s enthusiasm for the induction ceremony, highlighting it as a memorable part of her NTHS experience. “It was so special,” Lowe recalled. “I looked up to the seniors and enjoyed receiving my certificate.”
Poole was also recognized this past year for her involvement with NTHS at the national level. With the Stethem chapter receiving two awards this year, both Poole and Lowe are excited about the future. They aim to increase student involvement in the society and explore new community service opportunities and partnerships.
“This class is way more timid than other classes, but they are watchers,” Poole observed about the 2024-2025 NTHS members. “They look at those before them and are proactive in their approach.” Poole hopes to see the group become more active on social media and gain more exposure in the coming year. “NTHS is an amazing organization, and the awards are helping us get noticed, but it’s not about the award but the recognition of our students,” Poole emphasized.