ELA Honor Society chapters should conduct chapter installation, member induction, and Chapter Leader installation ceremonies. There are no official ceremony formats; chapters are free to create their own, but an example script is included here.
Some chapters may wish to conduct their ceremonies in connection with a banquet or reception; some may choose to conduct a ceremony during a school assembly. Some may wish to include special music before, during, or after a ceremony. All chapters should consider the importance of attire in creating a dignified, unique atmosphere.
In planning any ceremony, it is essential to organize all the details carefully; the Chapter Advisor and Chapter Leaders should feel free to request support from current student members, other teachers at the school, parents, and others who may commit themselves to assisting.
Ceremony Checklist
- Reserve a room suitable for the number of people expected. If possible, arrange to use the facilities after regular school hours to increase parent participation.
- If refreshments are to be served, arrange them early. Similarly, if a special guest is to be invited, confirm their attendance early.
- If you are going to include flowers as decorations, order them early. We suggest the use of dark pink and/or yellow roses, carnations, marigolds, or chrysanthemums.
- Prepare and send invitations to school officials, faculty, students, and parents.
- Allow for enough time so that the ceremony is not rushed. Dignity should prevail. Encourage the inductees to dress properly.
- Ensure that official membership certificates have been ordered, will arrive, and can be printed before the event.
Sample Script
The format of an ELA Honor Society ceremony should be the following:
- Welcome by an appropriate school official, to include the introduction of the Chapter Advisors.
- A brief keynote address by the Chapter Advisor. The topic may be anything appropriate to the field of English and/or the installation of an honor society.
- Installation of new chapter officers (by the Chapter Advisor, or another appropriate person).
- Presentation of the charter to the chapter president (by the Advisor).
The following texts are only a suggestion. They can be adapted to the needs of each school.
