Durango’s City Council Recognizes Learn and Serve (with video!)

Hi there -

My name is Liz Rice; I’m an AmeriCorps *VISTA, working with the youth programs at the Four Corners office. Lately, my objective has been to increase recognition and understanding of what “Service Learning” is in the community. To this end, I requested a proclamation from the City Council of Durango that recognizes the 20th anniversary of the establishment of Learn and Serve America (LSA), a program under the Corporation of National and Community Service (which also administers AmeriCorps). The Council granted the request and invited me to come and say a few words at last night’s meeting. Here’s a video:

http://docs.durangogov.org/sirepub/mtgviewer.aspx?meetid=591&doctype=AGENDA

It’s the first 10 minutes of the video. On the Agenda, click the link beside Item 3.1

Service-Learning is, quite simply, just that – using community service as a way to deepen and improve learning. For example, students who wish to engage in a service project in which they renovate a dilapidated or historic community building will necessarily need to learn and use math skills in planning and completing the carpentry and architecture project. They will also learn about the community’s history, the architecture of the building, and what historic preservation is. Students would also have a hands-on opportunity to explore new career fields.

A service-learning project like this gives students the opportunity to learn to work cooperatively with their peers, teachers, and community members. It promotes a deeper learning experience – the results are immediate and uncontrived. There are no “right answers” in the back of the book; if they did the math wrong, they’ll see the evidence in the project work.

This educational model is a solid way to engage youth, foster a love of learning, teach social and personal responsibility, and serve the community. I’m excited to be able to continue working to spread the word!

–Liz