Service Learning Takes a Stand

Random acts of kindness are secretly being done all around Springville Junior High School, thanks to the Service Learning class. Service Learning is a class in which students work on projects for the school, as well as provide services to help people out around the community. The Service Learning students make and do all kinds of things to provide a better learning environment and all around make the school a better place. The class gets involved in many things, but one of the main things they are doing lately are running RASK (Random Acts of Selfless Kindness) week. This is a way to recognize and respect others around your. The class also runs Red Ribbon Week, which is a drug awareness week. They decorate for the school dances, collect recycling, and make posters to hang around the school. They do so much more for the school and the community.

Inside the classroom is where all the planning happens. “We do projects based on what the students want to do so that they are excited about them and get involved,” said Mrs. Murray, the teacher of the Service Learning class. At the beginning of the semester, Mrs. Murray and the students come up with ideas of what they want to do over the time that they have. According to Jillian Boyer, an eighth-grade student who loves being in the class, the class chooses projects that help out and serve the school everyday.  The class then chooses the service projects based on the needs of the school and community and what everyone would enjoy. After that, it’s time to start planning.

The class plans for the activities and then gets to work. Some of the acts of kindness aren’t seen by most, but they surely help out SJHS. Not only does the class help out the school, but they also help out the community. Mrs. Murray said, “The service learning class goes to Brookside Elementary once a week to help a kindergarten class.” Another way the class helps out around the town is a service project. Haden Norman, an eighth grader in the class, said, “We do a group service project which can be inside or outside of school.” Overall, the class loves to lend a helping hand to those who need it. 

The school appreciates everything this class has to offer. They do everything possible to make the school a better place for everyone. As Mr. Mikesell, Dean of Students, said, “We are grateful for their service!” Several of the Service Learning students feel the class is super fun and would love for more students to join. If you are interested in hands-on projects, this might just be the perfect class for you!