From ‘Stop Hunger Now’ to ‘Feeding One Thousand’, school service projects and community outreaches have accounted for a large number of this year’s events. With graduation around the corner, many students will be recognized for their leadership and participation in these events.
For the first time, service learning cords will be available to seniors who have performed at least 20 hours of service in the past four years. This requirement will gradually increase, with next year’s graduating seniors needing 30 hours and subsequent classes requiring 40. According to the Langley PTSA, the ultimate goal is “to have students complete a minimum of 10 hours of community service every year until graduation.”
In the current economy, community service is especially valued with more family and individuals encountering difficult times in their lives. Furthermore, many Langley students themselves are being exposed to financial difficulty and are more aware of the problems others face.
“Whenever we go through difficult times, we can more empathize with those who are less fortunate than us,” said guidance counselor Carolyn Fasana.
Although recognition with cords and seal are appealing to some students, many believe that performing service for the community is a reward in itself.
“I think that as students it is our duty to try and benefit our community. We should all be willing to spend our time in order to help those less fortunate then us, regardless of whether we receive additional cords or a special seal on our diploma,” said junior Neil Patil.
Students who have shown significant dedication to community service beyond the minimum 20 hours required for cords may also apply for a diploma seal for Excellence in Civil Education. In order to obtain this seal, students must complete the requirements for a standard diploma, receive a “B” or higher in Virginia and United States government classes and complete over 50 hours of volunteer work and community service.