Community Service learning

The University High School Community Service Learning Program connects student learning, the notion of social responsibility, and meaningful service. By understanding (1) the social, political, and economic contexts of issues such as poverty, health, education, urban life, or the environment, (2) the meaning and role of active citizenship and engagement in one's society, and (3) the needs of the Bay Area community, students' service work will go beyond mere charity to be useful, authentic and educational.

Students are introduced to our CSL program in the spring of 9^th grade, when they spend two Saturday mornings doing service with a group of their classmates . Freshmen are also asked to serve the school as guides at Back to School Night, as hosts to visiting 8th grade applicants, and at our Decorator Showcase.

The heart of the CSL program begins in the Sophomore year when students choose a social issue that will become their area of expertise. Whether it be basic human needs, literacy, urban education, biodiversity, or AIDS and public health, students take a semester-long course taught by a UHS teacher with knowledge and passion about that issue. During that fall term, students learn about the social issue in depth, learn what is being done and what is not being done by public and private agencies, and learn the particular needs in Bay Area communities.

In the Junior year students are expected to go further and deeper in their commitment to addressing the issue. By taking their work into the realm of public policy, or assuming more leadership or responsibility in their agency, students continue to develop the skills, expertise, and attitude to make a difference. Seniors propose a project that will further their development as active citizens. The project may continue with their area of expertise or take them on a new path they are now interested in pursuing. The ultimate goal is to graduate a group of seniors who feel connected to the world about them, see themselves as active citizens, and are equipped with the skills and attitude to effect change where they see it is needed.