January 16, 2020
Service learning is a powerful way to increase students’ concern for the world around them, to build a sense of civic and social responsibility, and to increase understanding of and appreciation for other cultures and groups. This year, Kiera Olson, TDS’s Community Service and Engagement Coordinator, has led the Lower School faculty in creating lessons for our service learning program, providing resources, and arranging speakers from local agencies. Students have learned about nutrition, gardening, and community organizations like PORCH that provide assistance to families facing hunger. Different classes have had thoughtful discussions about helping in soup kitchens, contributing to food drives, and donating needed items to the displaced residents of McDougald Terrace. Students are full of ideas and ready to engage in their community.
On Monday morning, all TDS families are invited to serve their community by packaging food for PORCH in the TDS gym. Since 1994, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day has been a national day of service, when we are encouraged to make it “a day on, not a day off.” Looking for even more ways to engage your Lower Schooler with our local community? Try some of these for MLK Day and beyond:
- Mo Willems Scavenger Hunt, Southwest Library (1/16/20)
- Book Event: Dream Builder Launch Party (picture book biography of Durham architect Philip Freelon), North Star Church of the Arts (1/18/20)
- Book Harvest’s Dream Big Book Drive Celebration (1/20/20)
- “A Creative Protest”: MLK Comes to Durham exhibit, Museum of Durham History (1/17/20-4/5/20)
- TDS Girl Scout Troop 3579 Book Swap, MS Commons (1/24/20)
- Author Event: Kwame Mbalia presents Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky, Chapel Hill Public Library (1/24/20)
- 19th Annual African American Cultural Celebration, NC Museum of History in Raleigh (1/25/20)
- Science of the Season, Duke Gardens (1/25/20)
- Cardboard City 4 & Free Family Day, Nasher Museum, Duke University (1/26/20)
- Baking at Ronald McDonald House (any day)
- Keep Durham Beautiful (ongoing events)
Amie Tedeschi
Lower School Coordinator
