Community Service Guide

Community Service Requirement

Scholars for the Class of 2021 and beyond must earn twenty-four (24) hours of community service as one of their graduation requirements. Community service hours must be completed prior to the scholar’s participation in a commencement ceremony and the granting of a diploma. For additional details and guidelines regarding community service, scholars should refer to the Community Service Guide.

Timeline

Scholars will begin completing and documenting service hours starting in 9th grade. Current ninth graders are required to earn a minimum of 6 hours during each high school year. It is recommended that 10th graders complete 12 hours and 11th graders complete 18 hours by the end of the current school year. By graduation, all scholars must have documented at least 24 total hours. Hours may be earned all at once (up to 8 hours per day) or spread throughout the school year, in whatever manner best fits the scholar’s schedule.

Community Service and Volunteer Opportunities

Many of our school clubs and organizations provide an opportunity for scholars to earn these hours. Federal Way Public Schools will be using the new High School and Beyond Plan platform, SchooLinks, to post community service opportunities. Please review the slides below on how to search for community service opportunities. Please note that only opportunities with the FWPS logo are sponsored and endorsed by the district.

You can also see a list of approved community organizations that offer opportunities for volunteering in the Community Service Guide.

Selection

Your community service experience deserves a great deal of contemplation and discussion. Research has shown that people who take great care in their decisions find community service more relevant and make more meaningful connections with their community. Upon making your selection consider the following:

Dare to dream. Rather than making quick decisions regarding your community service, make a list of the exciting possibilities. Seek advice and input from your parents, family members, school staff, and friends.

Be hopeful. Consult school staff and other interested adults to connect you with potential community mentors and resources.

Approach potential community mentors personally. Act as though you are doing a job interview: dress nicely, discuss your plans, and showcase who you are. An in-person discussion will be far more effective than a phone call.

Don’t limit yourself. If you truly want to try something, there is a resource or organization willing to work/dream with you. Some scholars give up on ideas after a few rejections. Your school counselor will be glad to help you find the right community service experience and community service learning project point person.