Community Service-Learning

What is Community Service-Learning?

Community Service-Learning (CSL) is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. It can be used to teach students in all subjects and grades and can range from a single student to an entire school.

What are the benefits of Service-Learning?

Through CSL, students have the opportunity to engage with their learning in ways that have real application, improve their community, and develop a sense of connection and civic engagement. CSL also strengthens communities by meeting unmet needs in the community and strengthening relationships between schools and the community.

For more information on Community Service-Learning in K-12 schools in Massachusetts, please contact:

Kristen McKinnon
Community Service-Learning Specialist
Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education
75 Pleasant Street
Malden, MA 02148
Phone: 781.338.6306
E-mail: kmckinnon@doe.mass.edu

For more information on Learn & Serve America, the largest supporter of service-learning, please click here.

Here are a few examples of CSL projects from Massachusetts schools.

• Studio Art students at Danvers High School created a coloring & activity book on the Native People of Danvers, specifically the Agawam and Naumkeag. They researched, designed, wrote text, and illustrated a coloring & activity book on the history, ideology, language, customs, cultural and societal values, and daily life of the Native People of Danvers. Two members of the Danvers Historical Society provided some background information. In the 2010-2011 school year, the coloring & activity books will be presented to all third grade students in the district to enhance their understanding and general knowledge of their region's Native People.
• Elementary school students in Walpole had learned about water conservation and were seeking ideas for a project that represented their learning. As a result of cross communication between the schools, the high school Green Team collaborated with an elementary level Girl Scout Troop to plant a xeriscape at Boyden School. The high school and elementary students researched the appropriate plantings and used math and science concepts and skills to plan, design, and plant a drought-resistant garden in front of Boyden School.
• Malden High School students in a sociology class decided to take upon the issue of bullying after the tragic suicide of a 15-year-old student in a nearby school district, believed to be instigated by others' tormenting. The students created a poll relating to bullying and administered it to over 200 younger students in their school. Then they compiled and collectively led an assembly with useful information, statistics, advice, and resources for the younger students in their school. They also developed posters to be hung around the school that effectively promote bulling awareness and educate about the new anti-bullying legislation.

Some information adapted from the Corporation for National and Community Service, 11/23/10.