Soaring in Social Studies

CAMP HUMPHREYS – Humphreys Middle School recently charted the first DoDEA chapter of Junior Rho Kappa under the National Council of Social Studies (NCSS). Junior Rho Kappa National Social Studies Honor Society is the only national organization for middle or junior high school students that recognizes excellence in the field of Social Studies.

This spring, 23 students were inducted during a special ceremony where Dr. Michael Bosack, Deputy Secretary of the United Nations Command Military Armistice Commission, served as the guest speaker. The newly charted honor society is sponsored by Ms. Shelley West.

“Chartering a new organization requires work, but it is necessary to celebrate the academic achievements of students and to foster their continued growth in all content areas,” West said.

Social Studies educators partnered with the Pacific West District office to begin the chartering process after determining a need to recognize excellence in Social Studies.

“Many students think social studies is only about learning about historical events, but it also includes studies of human behavior, culture, politics and general understanding of the world,” President-elect Daniella Cantey said. “A Social Studies focused honor society like Junior Rho Kappa gives students a chance to explore these connections and find their interests.”

The group’s first order of business is to serve as ambassadors to the Camp Humphreys Judge Advocate Office during 2025 Mock Trial competition. The Pacific West District has plans to charter additional middle school chapters during the 2025-2026 school year.