In 1992, the state of Maryland mandated that all students in the Maryland public school system be required to complete service learning. The State Department of Education stressed that students "shall do no less than 75 hours of service or that each county should design their own plan showing an equivalent of 75 hours." For all Garrett County students in graduating classes in 2022 and beyond, 50 hours are embedded in middle school, 10 in high school, and 15 will remain independent at the high school level. Students may begin high school independent hours as soon as they have passed grade 8.

 

Service learning is a process that includes preparation, action, and reflection. Service learning is a process that includes preparation, action, and reflection. All Maryland students are required to take part in service learning in order to get a diploma. The purpose of service learning is to apply what students learn in school to the real world, and help them to become active citizens that make a difference in their community.  

 

In Garrett County, service learning begins at the middle school level. Students gain service learning hours through class projects and studies that pertain to service learning. Should a student refuse to participate in these classroom activities, then that student would still be required to complete the hours when they move to high school. Students continue to receive service learning information and instruction in high school, with an additional 15 independent hours required as well.

 

Special needs students are included in regular instruction. Service learning instruction and activities will be modified appropriately in accordance with the student’s Individualized Education Plan (IEP). Should a student be exempt from the requirement due to his/her profound disability, then this information must be documented on the IEP.

 

It is extremely important that students try to complete their hours before entering their senior year. It is very difficult to complete the service learning obligation because of seniors' busy schedules, classes, cars, jobs, etc. Seniors should not wait until the last minute to try to complete hours. Also, note that seniors will not be granted a parking pass or a modified schedule until they have met the service learning requirement.

 

There are several resources to assist students in identifying appropriate opportunities and activities to complete independent hours.  Students, parents, and guardians may visit the guidance office and look through the service learning organization list or click on the link index list to access the list of approved area agencies. School Service Learning Coordinators can also assist in finding opportunities that meet student career goals as well as meet the service requirement. Updates will be available through our Board of Education website, Facebook site, school sites, and other media. Local newspapers also have a listing of community happenings and areas in which there may be service learning opportunities.

 

Currently, students must fill out the validation forms which can be found in the guidance offices at each school.  These forms must be completed within four months of the date that the activity was completed. Service learning can be a fun and rewarding experience if it is meaningful and enjoyable. Many colleges and universities now ask for service learning information and many employers are interested in what students do in their spare time!