The Education of Public Service: Community Service Learning at the Ross School
The Education of Public Service: Community Service Learning at the Ross School
At the Ross School in New York, education is not just limited to the classroom and playing field. Community service and humanitarian projects are also a part of the lesson plans. All students, faculty, and families are encouraged to participate in various community service projects. Community service projects are an essential aspect of the Ross School’s quest to make their students global citizens.
The Ross School supports several notable service projects. The Ross School has partnered with Habitat with Humanity, Empty Bowls Project, and the Memory Project to provide students with volunteer opportunities. For the Empty Bowls project, 5th and 6th grade students raised money through ceramic bowl sales to benefit local food banks. Ross School students also reached out to orphaned Haitian children by painting portraits of the orphans and donating them as gifts. The students have also painted a mural at the Animal Rescue Facility, cleaned up local trails and beaches, and hosted Veterans Day luncheons.
The Ross School’s emphasis on community service is reflected in service motto “Know Thyself in Order To Serve.” The Ross School believes that in order for students to lead meaningful lives, they must take up leadership and service roles in today’s globally connected community. Senior projects and midterm courses focus on community service, both locally and abroad. There are also a wide range of student organizations that focus upon community service.
