Student Community Service

Community Involvement Guidelines for Diploma Requirements

Expectation

In order to fulfill the requirements for Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) each student must complete a minimum of 40 hours of Community Involvement.

Guiding Principle

Community service provides Catholic students a valuable opportunity to respond to the Christian call to serve others, especially those “who are least among us” (Mt 25:35-36, 40), all the while fulfilling their graduation requirements, 40 hours of community service. Alongside learning the teachings and traditions of the Catholic faith, it is vital that students have opportunities to witness their faith by reaching out to help others through Christian service.

General Information

Students may complete the requirement at any time starting in the summer before entering grade 9 and preferably finish prior to January of their graduating year. Students may complete one activity of 40 hours or several activities which add up to a 40 hour time commitment. The requirement must be completed outside of the scheduled class time.

During the lunch hour or spare(s)
In the evening
During the summer
On the weekends
During school holidays

Students under the age of 18 years should plan and select their activities in consultation with their parents. Early completion of the 40 hours of Community Involvement is strongly recommended.

Roles and Responsibilities

THE STUDENT:

Plans activity with parents/guardians
Secures placement(s)
Hands in planning report to principal / principal designate
Gets involved
Obtains parent signature upon completion
Submits documentation to principal designate (Guidance Counsellor)

THE PARENT/GUARDIAN;

Provides assistance in placement selection
Communicates with the school and placement about concerns
Signs Notification and Completion forms if student is under 18

THE SECONDARY SCHOOL: (Guidance Counsellor)

Approves activities before placement
Receives documentation from student
Records completed activity on Ontario Student Transcript
Provides accommodation recommendations for special needs

THE SCHOOL BOARD:

Provides for student liability coverage
Provides planning forms through the school
Provides reporting forms through the school