Service Requirement

Service Requirement for Honors Diploma

The service component of the Honors Diploma is required so that you can identify a need in a community, provide meaningful service to address the need, and reflect on the experience. Please keep in mind, "community" does not necessarily mean local to Old Town. "Community need" refers to any place that has a need for service; for example, volunteering at the Old Town Public Library or collecting school supplies for Nicaraguan children are both "community needs."

Your service can take one of three forms or any combination of the three. They are:

• Community Service-volunteering for an existing project/event that is beneficial for the community

• Service Project-a project done in a class that incorporates both the academic goals of the particular class and a service, which addresses a community need and contributes to a solution of a problem.

• Service Learning-a project done in a class that incorporates both the academic goals of the particular class and a service, which addresses a community need and contributes to a solution of a problem.

Providing service, while addressing a need in the community, is a very rewarding experience. Service allows you to connect with issues and concerns that interest you in a meaningful way. You can make a difference.

Requirement:

Honors Diploma recipients must complete a minimum of twenty service hours within their four years at Old Town High School.

• To obtain the minimum twenty service hours, you can do a maximum of three service projects. It is highly recommended that all of the hours are completed in one project, since you and the recipient of the service will gain a great deal more from the experience. It is also recommended that you not wait until your senior year to complete your hours. Things get very busy and graduation comes quick.

• To begin the process of selecting your service, you will need to submit a brief description of the service you intend to do to your mentor for approval. If approved, the service hours will count towards the service requirement. If a service is not approved, your mentor will give you feedback as to why and suggest ways that would make it count towards the twenty hour minimum.

• Your hours will need to be documented by you and verified by your community partner, project advisor, teacher, etc. you are working with. A "Service Hours Log" will be provided. At the completion of each service project, a reflection essay will need to be written and given to your mentor.