The documents provided below are intended to assist Chapter Advisors in creating their own application forms and chapter bylaws. NEHS recognizes that chapters may need to tailor membership and participation requirements to fit the unique needs and context of their individual schools.
However, it is crucial that any documents produced by individual chapters outlining the application and membership process comply with requirements set out in the NEHS Constitution.
Application Form
The application form provided below in Microsoft Word (.docx) format can be used by local chapters as a template for their own application form or in its entirety.
Many chapters choose to develop their membership applications beyond the minimum GPA requirements set by the NEHS Constitution by including writing samples, recommendation letters, and statements of purpose. This approach is encouraged, as NEHS supports the holistic evaluation of potential student members. However, we recommend keeping the process manageable to avoid overburdening Chapter Advisors and other teachers at the school, and to avoid making the process cumbersome and demotivating for potential student members.
Membership applications should be archived within chapter files. They do not need to be mailed to the Central Office.
Sample Invitation Letter
NEHS has created a sample invitation letter to support Chapter Advisors who want to reach out to their students and invite them to join NEHS.
Example Bylaws
Local chapters should adopt bylaws in alignment with the NEHS Constitution to establish local guidelines. These bylaws, designed by the chapter, implement the NEHS Constitution and provide a written set of rules, defining authority, order, and purpose. They formalize operations, including membership selection procedures.
Bylaws should be simple, essential, reviewed regularly, and updated to reflect current needs. Though not approved by the NEHS Advisory Council, they must be consistent with the NEHS Constitution and local school policies. Bylaws can and should cover membership criteria, meeting schedules, member obligations, chapter officers, dues, and project descriptions. Any additional pertinent information can also be included. Once accepted by a chapter vote and approved by Chapter Advisors and school administration, bylaws become the chapter’s governing document.
Chapters should feel free to use the example bylaws below as guidance for creating their own document.
Should you wish to reference the NEHS Constitution in your bylaws, here are some particularly salient points:
- Statement of the organization’s name and the chapter’s name (Article I)
- General purpose of the organization (Article I)
- Powers vested in the organization and the rights of the Chapter Advisor (Article VII)
- Criteria for chapter membership (Article VIII)
- Criteria for the selection of members (must be consistent with national guidelines) (Article IX)
- Frequency of meetings and provisions for special sessions (Article XIV)
- Titles, duties, and responsibilities of officers, Chapter Advisor, members, and committees (Articles VII, IX, XII, and XIII)
- Procedures for election and removal of officers and for filling vacancies (Article XII)
- Definition of rules of order and references for conducting NEHS business (usually Robert’s Rules of Order, Newly Revised) (Article XIV)
- Method and procedure for ratification and amendment of the Bylaws (Article XVII)
