At Virtus Academy, Service-Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that connects academic curriculum to community problem-solving.
Service-Learning was set in motion in Federal legislation in the National and Community Service Act of 1990. In 2009, the Serve America Act extended its purpose to expand and strengthen service-learning programs through year-round opportunities, including activities during the summer months to improve the education of children and maximize the benefits of national and community service, in order to renew the ethic of civic responsibility and the spirit of community for children and youth throughout the United States.
Service-Learning at Virtus Academy positively impacts our community and strengthens our school culture by teaching students to have pride in their community and to take action to help improve it. Through regular engagement, they become ambassadors of change and develop feelings of value and self-worth.
Some of the benefits of Service-Learning include:
- Improved character values and responsible behavior
- Improved academic outcomes
- A great sense of connectedness to the school and community
- Enhanced social-emotional skills and better cooperation in the classroom
- Expanded civic knowledge and commitment to contributing to society as a whole
