It is the mission of GCS that every student receives a world-class education and leaves prepared to succeed in the college or career of their choice. One proven way of achieving that mission is through character development and service-learning.

Students involved in service-learning are far more likely to become civic minded and involved in their community years after they graduate. They also improve their social and personal skills, the “essential” or “soft skills” we hear so many employers say they look for in potential employees. We must engage students and give them opportunities to work alongside others. Service-learning, when done well, accomplishes this.

The district is implementing social emotional learning as a framework to support and build on the work being done through character development and service learning. Social emotional learning is the process through which children and adults understand and manage emotions, set and achieve positive goals, feel and show empathy for others, establish and maintain positive relationships and make responsible decisions. As we strengthen these skills throughout our classrooms and buildings, we expect to see a greater focus on serving others, as well as increased student achievement and improved behavior.

 

Our district is dedicated to transforming learning and life outcomes for all students, and service-learning is one important way we can help do that. Thank you for your participation, and I look forward to the great things you will do through this process.

                                         

                   

                                                                               Sharon L. Contreras, PhD.

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GCS Service Learning Handbook