MICHELLE WILLARD, Post Staff Writer
Posted: Sunday, November 22, 2009 7:13 am

Tutoring, visiting the elderly and cleaning local waterways are all examples of projects Rutherford County students are taking part in through service learning.

While it may sound like volunteering in the community, service learning is more than that or just work in a classroom.

“It is a process that allows students to apply the skills learned in the classroom to real-world situations,” explained Kay Davenport, Rutherford County’s District Service Learning coordinator and Smyrna West principal. “Students are making a difference in the lives of others while putting classroom skills … to use. Service learning is learning while learning to serve.”

RCS is in the first year of a three-year grant that will bring service learning into all classrooms across the county. Recently, Smyrna West Alternative, David Youree Elementary, Rock Springs Middle, Blackman High, and Oakland High schools have all expressed interest in participating in the program.

“Teachers from these schools have gone through initial training,” Davenport said. “By the third year, we hope to have incorporated service learning throughout the entire county for all students to have this opportunity.”

Service learning programs will be extended through the county with the help of a $32,500 Learn and Serve grant from the Corporation for National and Community Service through the Tennessee Department of Education and Volunteer Tennessee.

Rutherford County’s school system was one of several districts statewide chosen to provide service-learning activities integrated within the school year, which meet the state’s academic standards, incorporate student planning and take no less than 30 hours per semester.

Davenport said service learning can be an important part of a student’s education because it increases awareness of social problems, improves graduation rates and grades, increases self-esteem, and helps them become active community members.

“Many students feel left out of the decision-making process, and this program allows them to become active, responsible and educated citizens. When students begin to create solutions to problems instead of ignoring them, they grow as individuals and the community benefits as well,” she said.

Davenport, who leads students with learning and behavioral issues daily, has seen the difference service learning can make in an academic career.

“Participation provides opportunities for students to become a part of something that truly makes a difference and lets them experience success regardless of their ability level.

“Additionally, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their community, and their ability to positively impact it …” she continued. “Most importantly (it) helps develop youth into productive and socially responsible individuals.”

Michelle Willard can be contacted at 615-869-0816 or mwillard@murfreesboropost.com.

More info …
www.volunteertennessee.net
www.servicelearning.org
www.swa.rcs.k12.tn.us