Maryland is the only state in the US to require students to complete mandatory service learning hours in order to graduate. Service learning means to take classroom curriculum and apply it to a community need. The goal is for students to better understand what they are learning by actually using it to help others and solve problems. Baltimore service learning programs, such as Squashwise and the Refugee Youth Project, provide mutually beneficial opportunities for volunteers to expand their coursework, and can help teach younger students other service learning requirements, like responsibility and leadership. Through service learning education, many students have social and academic experiences they may have never had otherwise.
Stories
Teachers and administrators strive to reform education through service learning curriculum
A graduation requirement for Maryland high school students may have a special effect on Baltimore teens. By requiring students to use what they learn in the classroom in their communities, some educators and officials believe that their students will have a better chance at academic success. Continue reading>>
College students use service learning programs to work with Baltimore refugees
For college students looking to enhance their coursework outside of the classroom, the Baltimore-based Refugee Youth Project provides a unique experience. Refugee students in pre- kingergarten through high school attend the after-school program to help learn English and to get help with homework. Continue reading >>
Baltimore Squashwise uses sports to teach responsibility and leadership to students
Baltimore Squashwise is an urban squash league designed to help students achieve academic and athletic success. Students work on an incentive system to improve their grades in order to play on the team Continue reading >>
Multimedia
Maryland teachers create innovative service learning projects
Though Baltimore is the home of many creative service learning programs, other communities have received recognition for their efforts as well. View a map of service learning fellow programs throughout the state. View the map >>
College students learn with Baltimore refugee children
The Refugee Youth Project creates a mutually beneficial environment where college tutors can use their coursework, while simultaneously improving the education of young refugees. View a slideshow about the students and tutors of the Refugee Youth Project. Watch the slideshow >>
Using the sport of squash for academic success
Though squash may not be a mainstream sport, some Baltimore students are not only becoming better players, but better students through the sport. Watch a video about Baltimore Squashwise and the players. Watch the video >>
