Service Learning at Roseland Elementary

Charlie Ruda, AmeriCorps Team Leader at Roseland Elementary

Service Learning Projects are in full swing at Roseland, and our various activities are centered on making our community a better place!

First graders have been studying the benefits of physical fitness. They have been talking about stretching, what muscles we use when we exercise, and how an active lifestyle keeps us healthy, all in preparation to teach their fellow first graders a fun workout routine.

Second graders have been learning about natural disasters and overcoming the damage they cause in the wake of the Haiti earthquake. In order to help rekindle a livable environment there, students are painting flower pots donated by Jail Industries, and are planting flowers which will beautify the homes of fellow students. Funds raised by selling the pots will be given to UNICEF, a supporter of people in need who have suffered because of natural disasters.

Third grade is looking at their project on a more local scale by appreciating the things that make Roseland a great place to live. After a visit to the Schultz Museum and a walking tour of the landmarks and assets of their neighborhood, they created a scrapbook reporting the reasons they appreciate living in Roseland, which was shared at a Cesar Chavez Health Fair table.

Fourth and Fifth grade have grouped together for their project: to create care packages for American soldiers who are fighting overseas. Focusing more on the rights and responsibilities of military members and the good they do for our country instead of rhyme and reason related to the current wars, they will observe the challenges and benefits of serving in the armed forces. After tabling at the Dollar Tree, they will send donated items to a group organizing care packages for our troops.

Sixth grade is taking a very personal approach to making the world a better place, by focusing on the “-isms” of society and how to eliminate hate in their own lives. Students have been talking about limiting bullying; stress management; advocating for the rights of students; how to challenge racism, sexism, and ignorance responsibly and respectfully; and creating a more supportive school climate. They are taking part in the Operation Beautiful campaign by posting positive messages anonymously on bathroom mirrors to encourage self-worth and self-respect among their school population. They have also learned about the challenge to avoid gang involvement in the area and why it can inhibit their personal success.