Michigan’s St. Clair County Technical Education Center’s National Technical Honor Society chapter has once again shown what it looks like to take the Core Four Objectives and turn them into meaningful action. Their service work demonstrates a deep commitment to community needs, student leadership, and the spirit of giving that defines an exceptional NTHS chapter.
Two major service efforts stood out last year for their impact and student engagement: participation in the Port Huron Kiwanis Club Polar Bear Plunge and volunteering as official Salvation Army Bell Ringers. Each project showed the chapter’s ability to unite students, staff, and the community through purpose-driven service.
The Polar Bear Plunge brought more than 200 students and staff together to brave the icy waters of Lake Huron during a winter snowstorm, all to support the Kiwanis Club’s efforts to help children and families in need. The chapter’s presence was both impressive and inspiring, with their team raising a remarkable $4,367.24. This also made them the #1 fundraising team for the 7th year in a row! Their involvement reflects intentional planning, collaboration, and a clear understanding of how service can strengthen community partnerships and support essential local programs.
Their work as Salvation Army Bell Ringers was equally noteworthy. Four hundred sixty students, staff, and friends completed ringing shifts, contributing 209 volunteer hours and raising $8,019.39. Many volunteers dressed in festive costumes to bring joy to shoppers and encourage donations. Their efforts helped provide food, resources, and support to families during the holiday season and demonstrated how small acts of service can create significant community impact.
Through these service activities, the chapter demonstrates a commitment that rises above the basic expectations of the NTHS Core Four Objectives. They have transformed service into a powerful schoolwide effort, thoughtfully identifying community needs, forming strong partnerships, and carrying out projects that create meaningful and lasting change.
St. Clair TEC’s NTHS chapter was one of the Core Four Winners for 2025 and serves as an example of what can be achieved when students commit to service that is purposeful, collaborative, and rooted in the values of NTHS. Their accomplishments remind us what is possible when chapters embrace the Core Four framework and the Chapter Awards Program as tools for growth and community engagement.
We encourage all chapters to consider how they can implement similar service initiatives, apply for the Chapter Awards Program, and share their stories with us using the Chapter Highlights Form. Your work matters, and we want to celebrate the impact your members are making in their schools and communities.
