Community service hours become mandatory

Would you rather have a community service day or do community service independently? 

"I would rather complete my community service with a group because [I can] also bond with classmates." -Annie Elwell ('15)

"I like doing community service with our advisors because we have to work together to get the job done." -Caroline McGimsey ('17) 

Editorial:

   In past years, the high school participated in out-of-school activities such as class hikes and community service days, however, our outreach opportunity will be cut for the high school this year.
   Ever since 6th grade, community service day was mandatory three times a year, although two days was usually the maximum ever achieved due to snow days. By advisory, students were sent to the Science Museum, the SPCA, Jackson Elementary School and many other non-profits. It was an all day affair, and students were car-pooled back to the school in time to go to sports practices. Now, the school does not want the student body to miss any more school days than can be helped. Although the high school will participate in class hikes after a year without them, it seems as though the school cannot spare the expense of missing one more academic day.
   According to Alex Hash, community service coordinator, high schoolers must complete 12.5 hours of community service outside the school throughout the year. Students who help with school affairs, such as soccer camps during the summer, are not exempt from the required hours. They also wish for us to complete these hours alone, but we are recommended to diversify our outreach. 
   Even though rewards will be given to those who complete extra hours, it is hard to believe that many students have the time and will to complete the forced community service. If we continued to involve ourselves as a whole for an annual community service day, then we would be helping the community as a community. More or less, all participants would be willing, and most importantly, the job would be accomplished. 
   While some students are active in community service activities such as the Tutoring Club, others use their weekend time or after-school hours practicing a sport or playing in a game or tournament. The unabsorbed minutes are spent completing hours of homework.
   All in all, one day of community service each year is not going to throw off the faculty or students inside the classroom. One day of six hours of labor is not going to destroy the academic success of the school. In fact, the opportunity that school could and used to provide to activate students and teachers in the community is beneficial. Students wouldn’t have to worry about all the things they’re missing out on, but rather be inspired with the memories they are making alongside their peers.