6141.42

Instruction

Community Service

The district is committed to preparing its high school students for active participation in community affairs through a student service learning program. Student service learning is defined as an unpaid activity within the curriculum, school or outside community that provides service to an individual or group to address a school or community need. The activity must be developmentally appropriate and meaningful to the student.

The program, aimed at teaching skills and habits the Board of Education perceives as essential for good citizenship, strives to allow students to develop a wide range of personal, intellectual, academic and social skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, negotiation, communication, planning and evaluation. It will help students become effective employees, colleagues, citizens and leaders.

Through participation in community service learning, a student will have opportunities to:

· develop knowledge and respect for community and citizenship;

· learn that problems can be solved by working together;

· learn the responsibilities involved in citizenship;

· explore career opportunities;

· increase self-esteem and appreciation for others;

· become sensitive to others and appreciate cultural diversity;

· overcome barriers among children.

Performing community service is viewed as beneficial to both society and to the individual student. High school students are worthy citizens, able and willing to give of themselves and should be encouraged in this endeavor. The Board of Education encourages efforts by the staff to encourage and assist students in such service.

Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes

10-221a[a] An Act Concerning High School Community Service

Herndon v. Chapel Hill – Carrboro City Board of Education, 899 F. Supp

1443 (North Carolina) 1995

Immediato v. Rye Neck School District, 873 F. Supp 846 (New York) 1995

Policy adopted: September 14, 2004 EAST HADDAM PUBLIC SCHOOLS

Moodus, Connecticut