Community Service

The following guidelines must be followed to participate in activities that are considered acceptable for community service:

• Community service is defined as non-paid volunteer work with a non-profit agency.

• Students may begin accumulating service hours as early as the summer prior to entry of the 9th grade year.

• Service should benefit the community at large. Working solely for an individual will not be acceptable.

• Hours must be documented in writing, either on a common community service log (generated by the School) or on letterhead from the organization being served.

• Students who do not have access to community service opportunities must be provided opportunities on the school campus. It is the student’s responsibility to alert the School

• Counseling Department that he/she is in need of school access to community service

• Time spent organizing and collecting canned goods, clothing, or book drives for a community in need does qualify as community service.

• Service on behalf of a candidate for public office is acceptable.

The following are examples that would not count as community service:

• Rehearsal time for participation in a fine arts or performing arts program.

• Practice time for sports and band.

• Club meetings to organize community service activities.

• Donating canned goods or items to gain community service hours.

• Parents cannot sign to verify their child’s participation in a community service activity

I want to volunteer, but where?

• Visit the United Way Website (www.unitedwaypbc.org), Volunteer Match (www.volunteermatch.org) or the School District website (https://www.palmbeachschools.org/cms/one.aspx?pageId=8920292).

• Check with your club sponsor.

• Listen to the announcements.

What Are The Procedures For Completing And Documenting Community Service Hours?

Complete the community service form to document your volunteer service hours. Forms are also available in the counseling office as well. Submit completed forms to the counseling office each year.

Is Community Service Required For Graduation?

Yes- 20 hours of community service are required for graduation but remember it can also help you to be a better candidate for college acceptance and for scholarship selection.

What Is The Community Service Requirement For The Bright Futures Scholarship?

- 75 hours for the Florida Medallion Scholars award level

- 100 hours for the Florida Academic Scholars award level