Dear Parents and Ninth Grade Students,

Every year, ninth grade students at Rose Hill Junior High serve the community through our service learning program.  This annual tradition has not only taught students important career skills and the value of volunteering, but has demonstrated to our community the capabilities and responsibility of our students.  Each year, many students far surpass their goal, accumulating hundreds of hours of service.  Over the last thirteen years, Rose Hill students have contributed tens of thousands of hours of service to our community.

We are excited about continuing this tradition at Rose Hill this next year.  Our goal is to build on student strengths and interests, and involve students in hands-on learning, problem-solving, and connecting academic knowledge with real life.  We hope to teach students the value of “giving back to the community” in which they live. 

This year, students will be required to complete thirty (30) hours of service.  Ten of the thirty hours may be completed by participating in such in-school service activities as ASB, mentoring, peer-tutoring, etc.  The other twenty hours must be done outside of the normal school day.  Fifteen, or half, of the hours, may be completed over the summer, which is why we are contacting you prior to summer vacation.  We welcome the unique opportunities that students have over the summer to take mission trips, volunteer with local community or recreational activities, or pursue personal volunteer experience.  If you plan to complete any hours over the summer, we ask that you get approval from your social studies teacher first.  At least fifteen hours must be completed during the school year.  In the fall, each ninth grade student will research contemporary issues.  Through this activity, they will explore possible types of service projects.  By the end of October, every student should have a clear plan for implementing his or her hours of service. 

Completion of the thirty hours of service will be tracked in the social studies classes.  Questions about service learning should be directed to each student’s social studies teacher, although the social studies department chair has final authority over the program.  Frequently, opportunities for service will be published to each class so that students can take advantage of local and seasonal service events.  The completed hours are due June 1, 2007.  Students will then report on their service-learning experiences. 

Enclosed with this letter is a form answering frequently asked questions, as well as a form to record completed hours.  We invite your comments, ideas, suggestions, and questions.  Please call anytime, and thank you for your support of this important part of your student’s education.