Service-Learning in K-12 - Colorado College

Service-Learning Colorado Springs is funded through Learn & Serve Colorado at the Colorado Department of Education. The program is currently being implemented at Columbia, Lincoln and Washington Elementary, Mann, North and West Middle, and Wasson High School. 

Service-learning is a tool used to contextualize learning by integrating relevant service into academic studies.  Students use critical and reflective thinking skills to engage in an identified community need, deepening their understanding of academic content and larger community systems.  Service-learning provides a space in which youth practice informed civic participation, thereby transforming themselves and their community.

Service-learning best practice:
1. Supports increased student attendance.
2. Leads to more positive perceptions of school and youth by community members.
3. Reduces the likelihood that participating students will engage in “risk” behaviors.
4. Develops students’ sense of civic and social responsibility.
5. Positively effects students’ interpersonal development and the ability to relate    to culturally diverse groups.
6. Improves the overall school climate.
7. Provides opportunities for students to become active, positive contributors to society.
8. Results in greater mutual respect of teachers and students.
9  Helps students acquire academic skills and knowledge.
10. Engages students in their studies and motivates them to learn.

The theory behind service-learning is an intentional link between service and academic standards.  The classroom learning is deepened through service to others and guided reflection and a demonstration of knowledge gained are key components. Service-learning looks different at every grade level, but at all times it is addressing content standards.

* Third-grade students visited residents at a nursing home, interviewing them about their lives and the history of the Pikes Peak region.  Throughout the year the students and residents kept in touch through letters, establishing pen-pal relationships.  The connection formed between the students and seniors was invaluable, bridging the generation gap, but they also touched on reading, writing and social studies standards.

* A middle school science club was using research skills to learn about energy & conservation.  Armed with their knowledge they went door-to-door and educated their neighbors about the economic and environmental benefits of energy efficient fluorescent light bulbs.  They increased awareness about a very real issue while addressing science and writing standards.

* A high school video production class put their skills and knowledge to practical use when partnering with patients at a convalescent home.  Students worked with families to create end of life videos.  They met a real need in creating a lasting legacy while applying what they learned in class to real life.

Please view our service learning guidebook for more details.