Service+Learning

Fourth Grade Learning Through Service “When I was young, my ambition was to be one of the people who makes a difference in this world. My hope still is to leave this world a little better for my being here.”- Jim Henson “Children who begin to think about others with understanding and compassion grow up to be understanding and compassionate adults.” – Brian Henson Dear Families, We are pleased to share our passion for “leaving the world a better place for our being here.” Slavens fourth graders will have the opportunity to affect their communities at home and abroad through service learning. What is service learning? As defined by Catherine Berger Kaye, M.A., in __The Complete Guide to Service Learning,__ “It is a teaching method where classroom learning is deepened through service to others …. It differs from other forms of community service because the education of students and young people is always at its core.” There are so many benefits to creating an intentional community of giving. “Students will: apply academic, social, and personal skills to improve the community; make decisions that have real, not hypothetical, results; grow as individuals, gain respect for peers, and increase civic participation; gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their community, and society; develop as leaders who take initiative, solve problems, work as a team, and demonstrate their abilities while and through helping others” (CG to SL) As well as, the communities we affect. This is a constructive curriculum that COMES FROM the STUDENTS with guidance from the adults in their lives. Therefore, we do not have a plan for how service will unfold this year. The process begins as kids generate ideas ……. You are invited to join us! There are many opportunities for you to help. 1. Through discussion with your child about their passions for this world, about what is happening in our world every day, and about your own interests and experiences of helping others or being helped. 2. Share your ideas, connections, research time, and support with the teachers. Contact us through email. This could be huge J 3. Come with us on our adventures! Look for more information to come. Noah, Renee and Jeffra “Every individual matters. Every individual has a roll to play. Every individual makes a difference. And we have a choice: What sort of difference do we want to make?” – Jane Goodall