Service Learning

Each grade level participates in projects that address differing social issues. The projects are age appropriate and authorized by the school. Beginning in Kindergarten and culminating in grade 6 each student keeps a service learning journal to record and reflect on their service experiences. Grade level themes are designed to provide each student with knowledge in a wide variety of community needs throughout their JTD career.

Coinciding with classroom projects are several school wide programs:

"Change for Change" and “Make-A-Lunch”  are interwoven programs. One program provides funds for the other to purchase food for students at each grade level to make sack lunches for the homeless. The lunches are escorted by grade 6 students to the Ocean Park Community Center where the lunches are distributed.

The Thanksgiving food collection drive provides for One Voice, a non-profit organization helping families living at the poverty level, to collect and distribute much needed nourishment to Head Start centers throughout Los Angeles.

The school has joined with other local independent, westside schools to support one local low-income school in the area. The local school is the recipient of many outreach activities lead by the Student Council.

The Helping Hound, is a school publication that celebrates and highlights the school’s community service learning. Students, parents, and faculty are encouraged to contribute articles about any their personal service to the community.