Service Learning

 

Group of students under a sign that reads "New Roots"

At Sun Valley Community School, we believe being of service to your school and your community is an essential component of leading an impactful, purposeful life.

Students across the school’s three divisions—individually and with their classes—dedicate time throughout the year to help people and organizations in the Wood River Valley and beyond, learning the reward in helping others and embracing their ability to effect positive change.

Group of students holding an oversized checkThrough a partnership with WOW-students, a local program created to introduce youth to service experiences, Elementary School students visit local nonprofit organizations to learn and serve.

 

 

 

Learn More about Elementary School

 

 

 

Group of students standing around a table with boxes on itMiddle School students volunteer for a community organization at least once during the school year and have the opportunity to participate in a weekend-long, service-learning trip to Boise. All Middle School students participate in a Fall and Spring Community Service Day, volunteering at local nonprofits throughout the valley. 

Learn More about Middle School

 

 

Two students in aprons carrying boxesIn 2019-20, Upper School students completed 1,250 hours of community service. Students volunteer individually and in school groups at many area nonprofits; in addition, ninth grade students spend a week in Salt Lake City, Utah on a dedicated community service learning experience. 

Students have the option to participate in a Service Learning trip to Portland, Oregon in the winter where they serve the homeless population.

Learn More about Upper School

 

A Proud History of Service

Since our founding, Sun Valley Community School has been committed to service learning.

Initially introduced as a school spirit activity, community service efforts have evolved over the years to become an integral piece of student life. In the school’s early years, one service credit was required for graduation, which could be achieved by “assisting faculty, tutoring, or volunteering;” later, 80 hours or more of community service qualified a student for one elective credit toward graduation. Today, regular class-wide service learning experiences and individual student-led efforts define our commitment to service. Students may track their community service hours to earn year-end Community Service Awards.