Sustaining a Service-Learning Program

Another dimension of our work is helping teachers, school administrators and community members make service-learning a central part of local programming. Too often, service-learning depends on the persistent efforts of individual teachers and/or community partners without becoming integrated into the fabric of the school, school district or community.

Collaborating with schools and communities across New England over the past decade, KIDS has identified a menu of local strategies and policies that can be adapted to meet local needs. As a first step, consider bringing together a leadership group of educators (from all levels), school administrators, community members, and students. Use the following questions to guide initial discussions and planning efforts.

• How does service-learning “fit” as a strategy to implement your district’s visions and goals for education?
• How does service-learning support or enhance other educational reform initiatives in your district?
• How will service-learning projects connect with curriculum, assessment, and standards?
• Will the administration support professional development and planning time for teachers?
• Who are the community officials and organizations most likely to be interested in a partnership with students?
• What level of parent and community involvement will be required?
• What resources will be available?
• Will other budgets and priorities be affected?

Learn more about how KIDS Consortium can help you sustain service-learning in your school or community.