Service Learning
At St. James’, our community service projects have a dual purpose:
- To be of genuine service to the local and world community.
- To stir in our students a sense of compassionate engagement with the world in which they live and to nurture their sense of belonging with and within the communities served.
Community Service begins with a sense that in our world there is no “us and them.” We are all a part of one world community, we all share one planet, those who are in any way “other” than ourselves are not distant and alien, but are a part of “us” whom we have yet to meet and know.
school-wide projects
Food Pantry and Soup Kitchen – Saint James’ Church spends about $50,000 per year feeding the hungry in both the Food Pantry and the Soup Kitchen. Families of the St. James’ Community help maintain this worthwhile ministry by providing generous financial support and food donations of all shapes and sizes throughout the year.
Stitching Kindness – a community service group in which all members of the St. James’ community are invited to knit blankets to give to families in need.
Club Six is a special after-school class offered only to Sixth Graders. Club Six participants celebrate friendships while engaging in community service activities.
A collection for UNICEF at Halloween that is organized by Club 6.
by grade
Kindergarten: A Book Buddy program to donate books to Para Los Ninos, a local preschool for low-income children, and bake sales to benefit children around the world.
First Grade: Collection of hygiene and personal care items for Operation School Bell to benefit children in need in Los Angeles.
Second Grade: Caroling and special Christmas card greetings at local senior citizen residences.
Third Grade: Visiting a local animal shelter and learning about how the animals are rescued, cared for, and adopted.
Fourth Grade: Creating and presenting a “Peacemaking” curriculum for St. James’ Preschool.
Fifth Grade: Work with Para Los Ninos, a local preschool for low-income children, including a site visit, Valentine Party, and zoo trip.
Sixth Grade: Cooperative work with St. Timothy’s School in Compton to create Friendship Tiles for display at each school.
