JServe Engages Ninth Graders in a Week of Service Learning

Ninth graders lived the St. Luke's mission through an engaging week of service and community-building on and off campus. JServe, formerly known as J-Term, facilitated joyful collaborations between St. Luke’s School and eight local nonprofits. 

In a break from their usual academic schedules, our students worked as non-profit "consultants" to address pressing social issues in the areas of poverty and food insecurity, climate change and preservation, healthcare and aging populations, gender quality and safety, immigration and justice, mental health and recovery, and animal rescue and rehabilitation. 

The students addressed real-world challenges within these "Inquiry Groups" while engaging in immersive service experiences in Fairfield County and beyond. Some service projects included making hospital kits, packing meals, organizing clothing, caring for horses, and working with refugees and immigrants. 

Additionally, the students learned how to create elevator pitches, package research, and professionally communicate while developing thoughtful proposals aimed at helping local organizations positively broaden their impact. In workshops like "Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Service" and "Global Perspectives," students explored the nexus of social responsibility and positive citizenship. With the help of their deans and teachers, the ninth graders also took time to build belonging amongst one another. They participated in fun games and activities that fostered connections between old and new friends. 

At the end of the week, the grade presented final projects to SLS faculty, parents, and students, with non-profit representatives in attendance, too. Not only did the ninth grade emerge with new ideas about how to strengthen their communities and help integral organizations, but they also completed the week with personalized service plans and renewed friendships.

View the JServe photo gallery here.