Service learning has become an integral part of many schools in Florida. There are service learning and community service programs that require students to donate so many hours. In addition, schools conduct school-wide service learning projects, community partnership projects and volunteer opportunities for sports, clubs and association groups of students. Why should you get involved? Because working with students in service learning environments can be one of the most rewarding aspects of being a teacher. Many times, some of the same students who don't excel in the classroom have the ability to succeed in other settings, especially ones that benefit others. There are other reasons service learning is important, including: It helps students apply what they are learning in school to real-world situations. An example would be a biology club working on an environmental clean-up project in the community. It gives students experience donating their time and talent to the community. Nothing prepares students better for the responsibilities of being a neighbor and a citizen than putting them to work on something that benefits the community, It can boost self-confidence and self-esteem. It can empower students to take action to fill a need. It can expand students' experiences and understanding about others in different situations than theirs. It provides opportunities for them to see possible career options they might not have known about. Students rarely have the opportunity to observe adults in work situations related to non-profit or government agency positions. Check with your principal or counselor to find out what service learning opportunities are available for your students. Or investigate some of the programs that are already in place to provide students with new experiences in service learning. A few suggestions to get you started: Florida Mentoring Program at www.flamentoring.org Learn and Serve at www.usafreedomcorps.gov