In this interactive session, teachers will explore the benefits of incorporating service learning into their classrooms, focusing on best practices that enhance both academic and social-emotional learning (SEL). Service learning provides students with hands-on, meaningful experiences that connect classroom learning to real-world community needs. By engaging in volunteerism, students not only deepen their understanding of academic content but also develop critical SEL skills such as empathy, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.
The session will begin with a presentation of proven strategies for integrating service learning, highlighting how these practices can foster a sense of purpose, responsibility, and connection among students. We will then hear from fellow teachers within the district who have successfully implemented service learning in their own classrooms, sharing insights and lessons learned.
Participants will then have an opportunity to collaborate in small groups, brainstorming ideas for integrating service learning into their own teaching practices. This will be followed by a group share-out, allowing teachers to exchange ideas, gather feedback, and leave with actionable plans to bring service learning to their students.
By the end of this session, teachers will feel empowered to create a classroom environment where academic growth and social-emotional development go hand-in-hand, all while fostering a sense of community engagement.
