Service learning has been defined as the integration of service with academic growth. It is a method through which young people learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service experiences. Service learning programs are individualized and unique, and to duplicate one program or to expect the same effects from one…

This article describes the "block home" program, neighborhood volunteers who provide a place of refuge when children encounter an emergency as they walk to and from school. Organization, purpose, and guidelines for planning and implementation are discussed. (IAH)

Although America's extended schooling structure is better preparation for work, it may be worse preparation for life. Young people, during their journey to a productive and fulfilling adulthood, need to see that they have a stake in the community, a meaningful role to play in it, and a reason for investing in its future. This book, divided into…

This booklet details a methodology for infusing almost any subject into a school district's ongoing curriculum. The process involved three interrelated parts: infusion, community, and stewardship. The infusion component makes it possible to upgrade teacher's skills, improve classroom management, strengthen community-school cooperation, and diffuse…

Describes a "Volunteer Reader" project in which volunteers from the community read and respond to student essays. Lists typical questions and answers that address the logistics of the project. Notes that the project has spread to the district level. (RS)

Guidelines are offered to schools and communities for developing activities of a yearly Deaf Awareness Week. Topics covered should include general information about deafness; common myths and misunderstandings; information about sign languages; technologies available to deaf people; interpreting; and interaction among deaf and hearing students.…

This guide contains descriptions of programs offered to colleges by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Originally issued in 1996, the guide has been significantly updated for this edition. Each program description contains a brief description of the program and its purpose, a statement of opportunities for becoming…

Describes a pilot program in which first, third, and fourth grade students were brought together with nursing home residents to help the children gain a more accepting attitude toward aging and to cheer up the lives of the elderly. (MG)

This publication identifies five levels of gang activity in middle and high schools and presents corresponding strategies for dealing with troublesome situations. The five levels of involvement include: (1) no known gang activity; (2) limited gang activity; (3) emerging gang activity; (4) community in crisis; and (5) gang-controlled community. A…

An In-School Student Chamber of Commerce Enhancement Program was established in elementary, middle, and senior high school settings in Dade County, Florida. The student Chamber, modeled after the local Chamber, serves as a role model in the following ways: (1) by guiding students to develop a Chamber; (2) by teaching students about the work world;…

This guide was developed to aid school administrators and school board members in leading the planning for a community approach to combat alcohol and drug abuse. It highlights critical aspects of the abuse problem among students in New York and explains the rationale for a cooperative planning effort by the school, the home, and the community. It…

These materials are designed to help concerned people develop and improve the quality of business and economic education programming in their community school system. Cooperative curriculum planning and community resource sharing should involve professional educators and community members in order to obtain the broadest possible consensus for…

In 1981 the University of Vermont redesigned its graduate level education curriculum and formed school improvement collaboratives with rural schools to improve instruction and supervision. Since the development of the school improvement projects there has been an increase in student achievement across the state. Includes a map, case history, and a…

Discusses the importance of competitions for gifted students and offers practical tips and techniques for utilizing competitions, not only to enhance talents, but also to nurture positive relationships between the school and community. Gives an example of a community's involvement in supporting competitions. (Author/CR)

To help Georgia school administrators, educators, and community members, this handbook suggests ideas and plans for strengthening school-community relations and increasing community involvement in schools. The first section lays out the four steps district administrators should take in developing a systemwide community involvement program,…