Service with a Smile
At West Maple Elementary, staff take pride in the many community service projects that the participates in. They feel it is important not only to participate, but also to understand the impact that our actions have on others. Out of this philosophy was born the community service project called “Service with a Smile”. Using a picture book about community service that was created by an 8th grade student, first and second graders listened as the young author read her story. Following the story, the children engaged in discussions about what community service means to them. The students identified service projects that they’d done in the past. They discovered that even when they didn’t know the recipients, or might not receive a thank you, the warm feelings associated with giving are reward enough. The story served as a springboard for a 1st-2nd grade community service project where the children created Valentines that were delivered to senior citizen homes. The “Service with a Smile” practice contributed to the further character development of all students, helping to create citizens who will continue to give back and demonstrate by their actions, that good character counts.