Christian Service In Depth
All SJDCHS students are required to perform direct service to people in need. While the school's Campus Ministry Office may offer service opportunities throughout the year, it is the responsibility of each student to complete the required number of hours necessary to satisfy graduation requirements. All students are required to complete 20 service hours per school year, thereby, accumulating the total 80 hours required over four years. The required 20 hours per school year may be completed anytime between August and May of that current school year. Hours completed during the summer prior to that school year or following that current school year may be used to satisfy the required hours for the year just completed or for the upcoming school year. Incoming freshmen may complete hours towards their freshman year beginning June 1st, after they have graduated from the 8th grade.
Freshman Year: 20 hours
Sophomore Year: 20 hours
Junior Year: 20 hours
Senior Year: 20 hours
Total Required Hours: 80 hours
Honor Recognition for Service at Graduation:
You must complete the following to be recognized for service hours at graduation. Service hours over the 80 required cannot include a ministry type service (altar server, usher, etc.).
Direct Service:
The service performed by students must be direct service, in which students personally encounter those in need and offer their presence and generosity. Also, students may engage in service that directly supports the environment. Further, students are encouraged to participate in their local parishes or faith communities. The following are examples of acceptable direct service: reading to the elderly in a nursing home, working in a soup kitchen, picking up litter in a park, and teaching religious education classes. SJDCHS students are expected to become engaged and active in the community. Thus, hours will not be recognized for helping out family members/friends (e.g., babysitting or yard work). Assisting in school-related activities (e.g., a school fundraiser, an open house, a parent association event, etc.) is expected.
Questions:
Questions concerning acceptable service, volunteer opportunities, documentation, or anything related to the Christian Service Hours program should be directed to Ms. Flores.