Service Learning

A Shipley education balances individual achievement with a concern for others. From Pre-K through 12th grade, our service learning program encourages students to be compassionate citizens. With service learning integrated into the curriculum, students gain understanding of the world, engage in active volunteerism, and reflect carefully on their experience. Our program nurtures an appreciation for the many ways a person can serve the School and the greater community.

Lower School

Service opportunities are included throughout the Lower School curriculum and classrooms. The Student Council takes a leadership role in carrying out projects such as food and book drives and fundraisers. Shipley’s youngest students have supported organizations such as:

• Ronald McDonald House
• The Brain Tree School in Uganda
• Family Support Services
• St. Christopher’s Hospital for Children
• Pennies for Peace

Middle School

Middle School students perform a minimum of 10 hours of community service each academic year. They are also encouraged to volunteer outside of school. A monthly service activity gives students the opportunity to fulfill service hours during the school day. Activities include:

• tutoring students in Lower School or in North Philadelphia
• packing food for the underserved
• performing at nursing homes or day care centers
• cleaning up local parks

Upper School

Upper School students are required to perform 40 hours of volunteer service before graduation. Students Organized for Service, as well as the Athletics Department and a number of individuals, manage many fundraising events and community service projects throughout the year. Regular events include:

• Super Saturday
• Toys for Tots Girls' Basketball Tournament
• Coaches vs. Cancer Boys' Basketball Tournament
  
• Community Blood Drive
  

Senior Service Projects represent the culmination of our students’ service experience. Each student spends the last month of school volunteering in the non-profit sector. Organizations such as Keystone Hospice, Clean Air Council, Philadelphia Zoo, West Philadelphia Alliance for Children, Inglis House, COSACOSA, Non-Profit Technology Resources, St. Barnabas, and Tyler Arboretum have welcomed Shipley students.

All-School Service Events

• Super Saturday
• All-School Food Drive
• Special Olympics at Shipley
• Walk for Brain Tree
  
• Monthly Service Saturdays—for students and their families