Fifth graders at Forest
Ridge
Academy
perform eight hours of in-school community service. A portion of this time is
spent preparing for the annual school blood drive and assisting in the
organization of the school-wide recognition of the "Say No to Drugs"
campaign. Time is dedicated to the planning, set-up, and execution of these
events. Students reach the remainder of their community service goal for the
year by assisting the office with deliveries, helping teachers with various
duties, and assisting younger students with tasks such as putting on winter
coats and boots.
Another service project that
provides much enjoyment for those involved is our "Reading
Buddies" program with junior kindergarten. Fifth graders partner weekly with
these students in order to foster a love for reading and form positive peer
relationships.
Fifth grade has also adopted
a service project in our community. The students volunteer time at a dance
held for students with special needs, at which they serve refreshments and
simply socialize with those in attendance. This project is actually the
culminating activity for a month-long recognition of people with
disabilities. During this study, students learn about various disabilities
and their characteristics, necessary accommodations for people with
disabilities, how to appropriately interact with people with disabilities, and
most importantly, that people with disabilities are no different than anyone
else.