Service-learning in MarylandService-learning is a teaching method that combines meaningful service to the community with curriculum-based learning. Students improve their academic skills by applying what they learn in school to the real world; they then reflect on their experience to reinforce the link between their service and their learning. - Learning in Deed
Maryland is the first state in the nation to require high school students to engage in service-learning activities as a condition of graduation.
Each of the 24 school districts in Maryland implement the service-learning graduation requirement differently, because they tailor the specifics of their program to their local community.
For further details, see our Best Practices Evaluation Tool.
K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice
In April 2008, the National Youth Leadership Council released the K-12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice. There are eight national standards in comparison to Maryland's 7 Best Practices of Service-Learning. Most of the national standards have a direct corresponding match with one of Maryland's existing seven standards.
Service Learning Stars Booklet 2009 MarylandMay 12, 2009
Download MSDE's new Maryland Student Service-Learning Guidelines PDF format