Social Studies

Student Service Learning

Overview

All students in Maryland public schools are required to complete student service-learning as a requirement for high school graduation. Service-learning that includes academic preparation and structured reflection, develops responsible citizens by engaging students in service beneficial to their communities. Service-learning provides students with opportunities to use their skills and knowledge in real life situations in their own communities, therefore enhancing what is taught in school by extending students’ learning beyond the classroom and into the community. Such learning experiences foster development of a sense of caring for others and the responsibility for civic participation.

St. Mary’s County Public Schools integrates the student service-learning requirement into the curriculum to provide structured time for students to prepare for, perform, and reflect upon their service experiences. Such integration allows students to achieve more meaningful learning experiences that will carry over into their post-high school plans, leading to volunteerism in their communities.

 

Middle School

Students fulfill part of the student service-learning graduation requirement in each of the three years of middle school. Middle school service projects can be schoolwide, clustered by grades or teams, or conducted in individual classes. Students become familiar with the language and concepts of service and begin to determine their interests for high school student service-learning projects.

 

High School

Student service-learning at the high school level is infused into the ninth grade United States History course and the tenth grade Government course. Students participate in projects to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of citizenship concepts. Service-learning teaches students how to affect change responsibly by developing action plans to meet community needs. The reflection component is fulfilled by the development of a portfolio and a comprehensive final essay reflecting the students’ experiences. The successful completion of Grade 9 United States History and Government courses fulfills the student service-learning requirement.

 

Independent Study

Independent Study Service-Learning is available for students who, because they were not enrolled in the St. Mary’s County Public Schools in grade 9-10, did not meet the graduation requirement. Students who wish to complete an additional elective credit project may also choose this option. Students using this option complete 75 hours of service for one-half credit. The student and members of the school staff determine acceptable service projects and maintain a record of the service. The preparation, action, and reflection components are also required in this option of student service-learning.