Project K.I.D.S. C.A.N.: Service-Learning in the Classroom and Community

Abstract

Project K.I.D.S. C.A.N. (Keep Involving Dassa Students in Community and Nature) offered the opportunity for many to serve the needs of each other through restoring an outdoor nature trail and beautification projects on school and community properties. The sites of the project were Dassa McKinney Elementary School, the community nature trail, and the Veteran's Memorial in the local town of West Sunbury, Pennsylvania. Students in the learning and emotional support classrooms at Dassa McKinney Elementary school were the primary participants. General education peers, along with high school students, teachers, administrators, parents, and community members were partners. In this article, sustainability and evaluation methods are discussed. Definitions of service-learning and evidence of support are offered. Through the use of service-learning, this article demonstrates how Project K.I.D.S. C.A.N. strengthened ties in a rural community along with meeting curricular objectives.

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