x2VOL Blog: Tracking Service Hours at your School

Civic engagement is of the utmost importance for students. Service and community engagement during formative high school years improve social-emotional growth, student outcomes, leadership skills, and more. But how are these programs being managed when educators are leaving schools in record numbers?

According to the Department of Education, successful work-based learning education has three important elements: “the alignment of classroom and workplace learning; application of academic, technical, and employability skills in a work setting; and support from the classroom or workplace mentors”. 

Summer vacation is a great opportunity for students to engage in their communities and gain valuable experience through volunteer work. Volunteering not only helps others but also provides personal growth, skill development, and a sense of accomplishment. By making service a daily or weekly habit students can create a positive routine and develop strong connections with others. Here are 18 summer volunteer ideas for students who are looking for inspiration:

In a time where connection is seemingly only built through phone screens and Instagram comments, in-person, face-to-face connection between students is dwindling. Lack of social interaction and seeing past immediate needs and wants can leave individuals feeling isolated and alone. Unsurprisingly, students can be left lacking a sense of belonging.

As Spring Break approaches, now is a great time for students to start brainstorming how to fulfill their volunteer hours during the break. This is a perfect opportunity for students to use the time off from school to engage with their communities.

Today's high school students are the future of our workforce. Before long they will be in college or starting full-time jobs of their own. But how are today's students preparing for their futures? What will the workforce look like when these students move on to the next stage of their lives?

The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but they can also be a difficult time for a lot of people. This time of year offers a lot of opportunities for students to get involved and serve people in their communities. 

Service should continue throughout the year, but the holidays are also a great time for students to step out of their traditions and daily habits to benefit someone else. 

Student service is on the rise. Student service programs in schools are returning to “pre-pandemic” status while students need re-education on the significance of service.

Work-based learning, internships, Co-Ops, and other work-based school programs are becoming extremely popular optional programs for students to take advantage of. Along with participating in community service, being in a work-based learning or internship program is an excellent learning opportunity and provides diverse opportunities outside of the classroom that improve student outcomes.