Service-learning is a method of teaching, learning and reflecting that combines academic classroom curriculum with meaningful service throughout the community. As a teaching methodology, it falls under the philosophy of experiential education. More specifically, it integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, encourage lifelong civic engagement and strengthen communities for the common good.

The Ballston Spa Central School District has adopted a service-learning model that depends upon three key principles: academic integrity, apprentice citizenship and student ownership.

Academic Integrity:

Our projects grow out of community needs, yet are an integral part of the academic curriculum. Service-learning offers an effective instructional strategy that helps students meet state learning standards and achieve measurable outcomes while fostering experiences that are connected and meaningful for both students and teachers. By tying service-learning projects to local curriculum requirements, teachers play an important facilitation role—actively helping students link their community experiences with lasting academic learning.

Projects that are relevant to “real life” help to motivate and maintain student interest. Because service-learning involves many different methods of teaching and assessment, it can engage students who don’t respond well to traditional classroom approaches. It also appeals to high-ability students, allowing them to reach beyond the set curricula and think critically about problems they’ve identified. By giving students at all levels opportunities for growth and expression, service-learning helps them to apply and demonstrate new knowledge.

Student Ownership:

By challenging students to identify and solve community problems, service learning helps our students find new direction and meaning in their lives—both in and beyond school. Students practice making decisions through small group work, classroom meetings, and one-on-one interactions with adults. The adults share in learning, acting more as partners than as experts. By working alongside students and providing role models, community members can enhance students’ aspirations.

Through service learning experience, students learn that they have the power to make a difference. They also learn a great deal about what strengths they have to share with their families, friends and communities.

Apprentice Citizenship:

Our students are vital community members who apply their knowledge, skills and energy to meet real local and regional needs. Students develop expertise in community issues by seeking out and working with local experts, community organizations and government agencies. Community members value the work that students do because it meets genuine needs. These students are developing civic awareness and the skills needed for effective citizenship: critical thinking, conflict resolution, attentive listening, information-gathering, cooperation, decision-making, advocacy and problem-solving.

Susan Douglas, Service-Learning Facilitator, at 884-7195 ext. 1303 or sdouglas@bscsd.org.

» Go To Service Learning
Service-learning experiences and lesson plans for teachers