Service Learning
Service Learning connects classroom lessons with meaningful service to the community.
Through service to others, a student stretches the boundaries of his education. In the process, he discovers more about himself and his community, society, and environment.
Service projects adhere to the five fundamental pillars of The Haverford School’s Service Leadership Initiative:
- Framework for ethical behavior
- Sound decision-making skills
- Sense of service to others
- Ability to empathize with others
- Self-awareness and social reflection
The Haverford School integrates community service into the classroom throughout the boys' experience. Service forms part of the boys’ educational foundation.
Lower School
Lower School boys serve the elderly, homeless, and hungry in their community. These actions foster empathy, sensitivity, and gratitude.
In the Lower School, faculty members direct service learning projects as part of the curriculum. Students engage in a wide variety of projects. The goal of the program is to build a sense of connectedness and responsibility to the greater community. Explore the sections below for a sampling of Lower School service experiences.
Middle School
Middle School students address neighborhood needs close to home and in the community of our partner school in Puerto Rico.
A service leader is not someone who serves in need of an incentive, but a person who believes that the gift of being able to help is the real incentive.
—Yeshwin, Form II
Upper School
The Upper School’s Student Service Board conceives of and facilitates projects ranging from inner city tutoring and sports clinics, to charity walks and lobbying initiatives.
All actions have tendrils. At The Haverford School, our boys see firsthand the big impact of small acts. Service learning is not mandated or assigned; it is intrinsic to who we are. We encourage our students to be mindful of their fellow citizens, channel their energy toward a common good, and become a voice for those in need. It is through these types of partnerships that preconceived notions are shifted, relationships are built, and the Essential Qualities of a Haverford Graduate, including compassion and respect for all, are put into action.
—Jini Loos, Director of Service Learning
Did You Know?
Did You Know?
Doing service can help you:
- make a positive contribution to your community
- develop motivation, responsibility, leadership, and problem solving skills
- experience positive relationships with peers and community members
- replace stereotypes with respect for others
- be exposed to career options
- improve your sense of self
- be better prepared for college and the workplace