At Shorecrest, instilling a sense of social responsibility in all of our students, from our youngest three-year-olds in The Experiential School through our seniors in the Upper School, is a priority.
Our program has been impacted by COVID-19, but there are still plenty of ways our students can make an impact. Distance service learning opportunities were created and implemented in April 2020, and have served our students well while keeping them safe.
The school’s commitment to community service is facilitated through a full-time Director of Service Learning, who connects students with on- and off-campus service opportunities and outside organizations, and works with faculty and parent volunteers to plan and implement a year-round Service Learning program.
Students receive mentoring to choose and engage in service efforts, to find their potential as leaders through civic engagement, and to extend their learning beyond the classroom to discover the intrinsic value of serving others.
Meeting the needs of local service organizations, participating in traditional annual service events, and responding to national and global demands brought on by natural disasters and community needs provide Shorecrest students countless opportunities to be of service.
Upper School students commit hundreds of hours each year of service, far surpassing any requirements for college applications or scholarships. While most of their time is spent on student-led projects or club involvement, many give numerous hours outside of school, during weekends and vacations, serving alone or alongside their families, in their own communities or in places outside of Tampa Bay.
Because Shorecrest students learn at an early age the importance of giving their time and talent, they discover the intrinsic value of service. This character education becomes a natural extension of their lives.