Project Summary:
P.S. 376's service-learning process began before Thanksgiving, with a multicultural fresh food drive for a local food pantry. This inspired students to want to do more for people who are hungry. They have planned to hold an art auction of their own creations to raise money for the food pantry.
Investigation:
The school’s principal read the book
Maddi’s Fridge
by Lois Brandt to all classes using video chat. The book sparked a lively conversation about hunger and what that looks like in the school’s community. Students decided to conduct a food drive.
Preparation:
In social studies, students learned about families and culture. The students selected a local pantry to support and wanted to keep in mind the diverse cultures of the pantry recipients when collecting donations. After receiving information from staff at the pantry, students decided to request fresh food for their drive. They worked with the art teacher to create posters and signs requesting fresh food representing many cultures.
Action:
The food collected at P.S.376 was delivered to the pantry before Thanksgiving break. Upon reflecting on the food drive, the students felt they could do more to support the pantry. They analyzed famous logos and created their own logos and bumper stickers that reminded the school community to not waste food and to continue to donate. The students watched public service announcements about hunger and read
Uncle Willie and the Soup Kitchen
by DyAnne DiSalvo-Ryan. They discussed more ways they could help and, based on previous fundraisers, decided to hold an art auction of their creations, which will take place at a future date. The proceeds will be used to purchase high-need items for the food pantry.
Demonstration:
Class representatives plan on sharing out about their service-learning project at a district showcase for service leadership projects.
Reflection:
Students will share their work with the school and community through ClassDojo and their school’s Twitter account.
