Service Learning
Last year's service projects included the Car Show and Carnival, drives to collect clothing, food, books and educational materials, walk-a-thons and running-a-thons, benefitting local charities. One multi-club effort focused on collecting donations of complete Thanksgiving dinners for 100 local families, feeding approximately 500 people. Students raised money for a medical facility serving orphans during the Hoops of Hope free throw-a-thon. In addition, students have volunteered for election activities and have written letters to legislatures regarding issues that affect the future of this state.
This year again finds classrooms collaborating together on Standards-based service learning projects. The Poston Panthers are filling the needs in the community with various service projects. With the fall being election time, Panthers are writing letters to legislators and working on campaigns of their choice. Other efforts include drives, fundraisers, cancer walks, and many other projects connecting the curriculum to community needs.
Ninth graders received packets describing Option B requirements and how to receive the service notation or Honors recognition on the high school diploma. Over the course of the four years of high school, students must complete 150 service hours to receive the service notation on the diploma.
The process requires:
1. Complete an application.
2. Obtain approval for each project.
3. Turn in a timecard to document participation in each activity.
Students must complete the application before completing service learning hours. Failure to follow these three steps wil result in hours not being counted. In the spring, students are required to complete a written reflection about the projects they have completed before the hours are transferred to the high school. These requirements must be met in order for students to receive the service learning hours.
The public has the opportunity to support Service Learning through the United Way by filling out the donation form at work and designating the tax credit contribution to Mesa Service Learning #0565. Another way top contribute is by the state's Extra-Curricular Activity program (ECA), a tax-credit program. Just complete an ECA card with Poston Service Learning Acct. #8843. The funds go to materials and projects that our students complete, as well as to provide transportation and recognition of their efforts. What a great way to create the next generation of community-minded citizens!
If you have service learning questions, please contact the service learning coach, Mr. Bisanz. We are very proud of our students' efforts and the teachers and administrators who mentor them into community service programs. Poston is a great place to learn and serve!
District Service Learning http://www.mpsaz.org/msl/