Inaugural class of 47 students spans 20 U.S. states and 14 countries, recognized for scholarship, service, leadership, and character at the fully online school.
MINNETONKA, Minn., Oct. 1, 2026 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Excel High School, an accredited online middle and high school serving students worldwide, inducted the first members of its National Honor Society chapter on September 17, 2026. Forty-seven students spanning three grade levels were selected for the inaugural cohort, which draws from 20 U.S. states and 14 countries.
The induction marks the launch of Excel High School's first chartered chapter of the National Honor Society and the school's first virtual student club. Candidates completed a formal application process and were evaluated on the four pillars of NHS membership: scholarship, service, leadership, and character. Each application was supported by references from teachers, mentors, and community members and reviewed by a faculty selection committee.
The inaugural class includes 13 sophomores, 23 juniors, and 11 seniors. Members lead and serve in both their local communities and the school's online community, reflecting the global reach of Excel High School's student body.
"This first NHS cohort demonstrates what we have always known about online learners: they are leaders, volunteers, and scholars of the highest caliber. We are proud to give them a national platform that recognizes more than grades," said Rod Clarkson, CEO of Excel Education Systems, the parent organization of Excel High School.
"Reading the references submitted on behalf of our applicants was a powerful reminder of who our students are," said Kendra Grothmann, NHS chapter adviser at Excel High School. "These students have certainly earned strong grades, but their teachers, mentors, and communities describe young people of real character, leadership, and service. We have special students at Excel High School, and this chapter gives them the recognition they have earned."
The school plans to expand its honor society programming, including a National Junior Honor Society chapter for middle school students.
About Excel High School
Excel High School is an online school system, accredited by both Cognia and the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools CESS, serving students in grades 6-12 and adult learners in all 50 states and around the world. Based in Minnetonka, Minnesota, Excel High School is part of Excel Education Systems and offers self-paced, flexible programs including standard, honors, AP, and college in high school coursework. Learn more at www.excelhighschool.com.
About the National Honor Society
The National Honor Society, a program of the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), has recognized outstanding high school students on the basis of scholarship, service, leadership, and character since 1921.
Media Contact
Jacob Martus, Excel High School, 1 952-465-3700, [email protected], https://www.excelhighschool.com
SOURCE Excel High School
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