Learning Through Service

What is Learning Through Service?

It is a teaching and learning approach that integrates community service with academic study to enrich learning,teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities.

ALL students at Waterford High School must complete and document a total of 80* hours of service over the course of four years as part of the Waterford High School diploma requirements. Students failing to complete the service requirement will NOT be permitted to graduate. It is suggested that students perform and document at least 20 hours per academic year. Required total hours are pro-rated for students entering after the first semester of the freshman year as determined by the Learning Through Service Program Coordinator. Students are responsible for having a thorough knowledge and understanding of all LTS policies, procedures and practices. The LTS coordinator is available to answer any questions students may have about the program.

LTS hours are documented and approved through the “MobileServe” app. All students will be instructed in how to download and use the app to log their hours and get approval for projects.

What is an acceptable LTS project outside of the classroom?

Learning Through Service hours may be completed through volunteer service, career exploration/job shadowing opportunities, and incorporated into the Capstone Project (for up to 40 of the required LTS hours). Students who transfer to Waterford High School during their high school career will have their Learning Through Service hours pro-rated based on the amount of time they are enrolled at WHS. The following are some of the criteria which will be used by the Learning Through Service coordinator when determining “meaningful” service. The service must:

• be provided to a non-profit organization (unless the hours are part of the Capstone Experience)

• be provided free of any remuneration (no payment)

• be an active experience that measurably benefits another person,the school community, or the community at large.

What is the policy on volunteering in a private residence or for a private individual, association, club or family?

Performing tasks not limited to but including babysitting, shoveling snow, raking leaves, m owing lawns, home maintenance, tutoring, music lessons, dance lessons, karate lessons, and so on, in someone’s home or for a private individual, association, club or family does not constitute a service project.

When can students conduct service projects?

Students may begin service projects during the summer following completion of middle school. Independent LTS Projects may only be performed outside of regular school hours.

*These hours have been prorated due to the pandemic

Class of 2023—60 hours

Class of 2024—60 hours