Service Learning and Community Service for Teens FAQ

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• What do I need to graduate?
• My teachers said that I need community service. What's the difference?
• How do I track my hours?
• Do I have to complete all 60 hours in one school year?
• I don't live in the north Seattle area, who can I call to find other opportunities closer to where I live?

What do I need to graduate?
60 hours of service-learning are mandated by the Seattle Public School District, but your school may require something else. Please speak to your school counselor to clarify graduation requirements.

My teachers said that I need community service. What's the difference?

Community Service is helping the community by choice or through court requirement. Community service may or may not be tied to academics or curriculum and may or may not include some form of reflection.

Service Learning is a teaching methodology that allows students to learn and apply academic, social and personal skills to improve the community, continue individual growth and become better citizens. Service learning focuses on both the service and the learning and is appropriate for all students and all curricular areas. One of the key components of service learning is structured and systematic reflection.

Each school has its own interpretation of service learning and community service. Before participating in a project it is imperative that the project be approved by your teacher or faculty member responsible of service hours at your school.

How do I track my hours?

There is a form available at your school that has a section for tracking your hours. Please visit your school counselor for the form. If you need additional assistance, please contact Ron Mirabueno, Service Learning Coordinator (for the Seattle Parks Department), (206) 233-3979 or at ron.mirabueno@seattle.gov

Do I have to complete all 60 hours in one school year?

No. You have your entire high school career to accumulate your 60 hours, but don't wait till the last minute. Please note some schools may require you to complete a certain number of hours per year to help you manage your hours more easily. Be sure to check with your school counselor.

I don't live in the north Seattle area, who can I call to find other opportunities closer to where I live?

Just inside this page you will find the name and number of a Teen Development Leader at a community center located near where you may live. Check it out. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact Ron Mirabueno, Service Learning Coordinator (for the Seattle Parks Department), (206) 233-3979 or at ron.mirabueno@seattle.gov