valencia college, east campus service learning handbook · 2016-01-09 · valencia college, east...

VALENCIA COLLEGE, east campus

Service Learning Handbook Student

PLEASE NOTE: If the Service Learning hours are not properly documented and verified, then a grade of F will be given irrespective of the grade you have had. Students are required to use the enclosed forms and no other documents will be accepted in its place. Use one (1) Service Learning Verification Form per course; Using the same verification form for multiple courses or semesters is fraud and can result in suspension.

This handbook is a collaborative effort of the Valencia College East Campus, Teacher Education Program created in 2005 by Teacher Education Coordinator, Dr. Yasmeen Qadri; Revised: Professor Lauri Lott 1/1/16 You may find a copy of this Handbook and other important information about the East Campus TEP Service Learning at www.valenciaTEP.wordpress.com

Spring 2016

VALENCIA COLLEGE east campus

TEACHER EDUCATION PROGRAM (TEP)

2

TableofContentsTeacher Education Program (TEP) 3What is Service Learning? 3

Mission 3Essential components of Service Learning 3Different Kinds of Service Learning 3Benefits of Service Learning 4

Service Learning Video 4Service Learning Requirements 4

Service Learning Hours 4Pre-Service Activity 4Reflection Activity 4Demonstration and Post Service Activity 4

Policy of Required Service Learning Hours 5Florida Statute 1012.32 (2)(d) 5SL Hours REQUIRED 5Amount of SL Hours 5SL at Community Partner Schools 5Valencia Student Responsibilities 5Community Partners Responsibilities 5

Service Learning Standards 6How do I get started with my SL Hours? 7

Step 1: Choose Your School 7Step 2: OCPS Background Check 8

OCPS Volunteer Eligibility Statement 10Step 3: Attend Welcome Orientation at School (optional) 12Step 4: Contact School 12Step 5: Complete your Service Learning Hours 13

Tips for completing your Service Learning hours: 13OCPS Volunteer Guidelines 14

Principles for How We Treat Each Other 15Who Can I Contact for Help? 16

TEP Website: 16For questions about Service Learning and Background Checks: 16For issues related to specific OCPS requirements and background checks: 16For more information about the AA in Early Childhood or the TEP Program: 16TEP Faculty: 16

References 17Forms 17

Service Learning Verification Form (Sample) 18Service Learning Verification Form 19TEP Service Learning Statement of Understanding 21



3

Teacher Education Program (TEP) At Valencia College East Campus, our Teacher Education Program (TEP) offers a full range of opportunities to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to enter a Teacher Education Bachelor of Science program. At East Campus only, we offer a unique program:

• AA degree in Early Childhood Education (AA in Elementary Education coming soon) with a dedicated Teacher Education Advisor to assist students with TEP choices.

• Valencia Future Educators Club (awarded most Outstanding Organization by Student Development) • Service Learning opportunities that replace field observations allowing students to earn a Service

Learning medallion for graduation and designation on your diploma. • 9 different Teacher Education introductory courses

What is Service Learning? Service Learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. Service Learning allows students and faculty to blend educational goals with their passions.

Mission Service Learning creates opportunities for Valencia students, faculty, and staff to learn in partnership with the community and to develop competencies that relate to course content and promote the advancement of a socially responsible citizenry. Service learning is “a research based teaching method where guided or classroom learning is applied through action that addresses an authentic community need in a process that allows for youth initiative and provides structured time for reflection on the service experience and demonstration of acquired skills and knowledge” (Kaye, 2010, p. 9).

Essential components of Service Learning Academics | Students will improve their higher order thinking skills through analysis and understanding of complex problems. Students will connect the learning in the classroom to the service experience. Pre-professional | Students will connect service to career exploration. Students will analyze their skill set growth related to potential careers. Civic Engagement | Students will gain an understanding of the community organization and those it serves. Students will gain an understanding of their role as an active member of the society. Personal | Students will experience personal growth through challenges and will develop new skills. Reciprocity | Each Service Learning experience should benefit students and the community. Students are encouraged to identify a community agency.

Different Kinds of Service Learning According to Nitschke-Shaw and Ziesler (n.d.), Service Learning may take on different forms and students may complete their Service Learning in one or many ways: Direct Service – Involves student action which fills the immediate needs of the community. Students learn from the experience of interaction and observation and not necessarily from the skills required for the service. Indirect Service – Addresses community needs indirectly, typically through research, organizing, and/or administrative action. Advocacy – Efforts result in eventual changes in the social, political or environmental conditions contributing to community needs.



4

Benefits of Service Learning v LEARN through hands-on work in a non-profit community environment (school). v EXPLORE career options, gain work experience and make job contacts. v DEVELOP connections with people of diverse cultures and lifestyles. v IMPROVE self-confidence by becoming an active citizen in your community. v EARN recognition for service hours on transcripts and at graduation. v MEDALLION completing 40+ Service Learning hours receives bronze, silver or gold medallion to wear

at graduation.

Service Learning Video Please watch this informative video to get an idea about Service Learning.

Lauri Lott Service Learning Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fV_Up2IU-UA&feature=youtu.be

Service Learning Requirements Each course will implement the SL project in a different way. However, there are common components to the project that each course will require, as suggested by the Valencia College Service Learning program. Please consult with your professor about the specific requirements and due dates.

Service Learning Hours This activity is the completion of the required Service Learning hours. You may complete them all at once or over a period of time. These hours MUST be completed in their entirety by the due date specified by your professor. If you do not complete ALL the required hours, you will not pass the class! SL hours are woven throughout the course and a part of all the SL activities.

Pre-Service Activity This activity occurs before the SL hours begin. This may be in the form of an interview, research paper, reflection, guest speaker or class discussion.

Reflection Activity This may be completed throughout the entire SL project and semester. Reflective activities may be in the form of journals, reflections, in-class discussions and checkpoints.

Demonstration and Post Service Activity This activity is usually completed at the end of the SL hours. Students will demonstrate their achievement in learning from the SL hours via an electronic presentation. This may be done in the form of a class presentation using PowerPoint, Prezi, Keynote or other electronic presentation applications. Your professor will specify exactly how to complete this activity and when it is due.



5

Policy of Required Service Learning Hours Florida Statute 1012.32 (2)(d) Student teachers, persons participating in a field experience pursuant to s. 1004.04(6) or s. 1004.85, and persons participating in a short-term experience as a teacher assistant pursuant to s.1004.04(10) in any district school system, lab school, or charter school shall, upon engagement to provide services, undergo background screening as required under s. 1012.56.

SL Hours REQUIRED If you do not complete the required SL hours, you will not pass the course! Your verification form signed by the appropriate supervising teacher(s) will be randomly called to verify your attendance.

Amount of SL Hours EDF2005, EDF2085 and EME2040 are generally required as a prerequisite for all Florida state university teacher education programs. On East Campus, EDF2005 and EDF2085 each REQUIRE a 20-hour directed Service Learning project and some EME2040 sections require a 10-hour Service Learning project in one of the approved community partner schools. Prior teaching experience or volunteer service will not count as part of your SL; hours completed beyond the required amount for the course as designated in the course catalog will be counted as volunteer hours and NOT go towards Service Learning recognition or medallion. Specific requirements and due dates will be given to you by your professor; SL hours are not tutoring or babysitting. EDF2005 = 20-hours EDF2085 = 20-hours Some EME2040 sections = 10 hours EEC2001 -=10 hours EDF2130 = 5-10 hours

SL at Community Partner Schools We recommend that you complete your Service Learning hours at our Community Partner Schools; we have agreements with these schools and they understand the scope of SL and its requirements. Your professor will direct you as to where you are able to go as appropriate for your particular class and class objectives. SL hours completed at schools outside our Partner Schools are done at your own risk and with your professor’s approval.

Valencia Student Responsibilities The student understands and commits to: Included as part of coursework (per Professor choice): ü Attend an Education Orientation outlining the Teacher Education Program. ü Complete an OCPS background check. ü Complete a Pre-Service paper (interview or research). ü Reflect on SL experience. ü Present a digital presentation of the SL experience. ü Submit a signed SL Verification form documenting the SL hours completed. ü Complete a brief end-of-term evaluation of the TEP SL program. Included as part of service to CPS: ü Comply with CPS policies, standards and regulations ü Serve in a professional manner with respect for others, especially with regard to confidentiality. ü Arrive on time or notify the CPS if I cannot attend due to illness or emergency. ü Take full responsibility for any risk of property damage or personal injury that may be sustained as a result of these

activities. ü Attend a Welcome Orientation at the CPS (optional). ü Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at CPS identifying requirement and in what grade level/subject preferred. ü Complete SL hours in an area of need as suggested by CPS.

Community Partners Responsibilities The Community Partner School understands and commits to: ü Complete a Service Learning Community Partner Statement of Understanding. ü Receive an official Valencia College Community Partner Certificate. ü Host face-to-face or virtual Welcome Orientation for VC students to tour the school and understand the policies of volunteering. ü Inform TEP of your school’s needs. ü Place students with a teacher, department or program to address the need while student gains valuable experience and understanding of

the intricacies of teaching. ü Discuss in advance with the student any need for change of placement or hours of service. ü While serving as a SL CPS, the student will not be asked to transport any person, be alone with any minors, be in any private home without

a CPS representative, or violate the agreements set forth by the CPS or Valencia. ü Complete a brief end-of-term evaluation of the TEP SL program.



6

Service Learning Standards

Standards are reprinted with permission of the National Youth Leadership Council. Copyright © 2008 National Youth Leadership Council, St. Paul, MN. www.nylc.org. All rights reserved. Comments in text boxes are written by Cathryn Berger Kaye.

From The Complete Guide to Service Learning: Proven, Practical Ways to Engage Students in Civic Responsibility, Academic Curriculum, & Social Action (Revised & Updated Second Edition) by Cathryn Berger Kaye, M.A., copyright © 2010. Free Spirit Publishing Inc., Minneapolis, MN; 800-735-7323; www.freespirit.com. This page may be reproduced for use within an individual school or district. For all other uses, contact www.freespirit.com/company/permissions.cfm.

K–12 Service-Learning Standards for Quality Practice Meaningful Service. Service-learning actively engages participants in meaningful and personally relevant service activities.

Students identify, authenticate, and learn about a recognized community need. Student actions are reciprocal, valued by the community, and have real consequences while offering opportunities to apply newly acquired academic skills and knowledge.

Link to Curriculum. Service-learning is intentionally used as an instructional strategy to meet learning goals and/or content standards.

The process includes deliberate cross-curricular connections whereby students learn skills and content through varied modalities that meet academic standards, and enables the transference of skills and content to new applications. The content informs the service and the service informs the content.

Reflection. Service-learning incorporates multiple challenging reflection activities that are ongoing and that prompt deep thinking and analysis about oneself and one’s relationship to society.

Students participate in systemic varied processes that integrate empathetic response with cognitive thinking related to social issues and their lives. This affective and cognitive blend deepens the service learning as students apply and transfer new understandings of themselves, others, and the world around them.

Diversity. Service-learning promotes understanding of diversity and mutual respect among all participants.

Student experience affords opportunities to form multidimensional understanding and varied points of view. This process allows students to gain perspective and develop mutual respect and appreciation for others, while replacing stereotypes with accurate information.

Youth Voice. Service-learning provides youth with a strong voice in planning, implementing, and evaluating service-learning experiences with guidance from adults.

Students experience significant age-appropriate challenges involving tasks that require thinking, initiative, and problem solving as they demonstrate responsibility and decision-making in an environment safe enough to allow them to make mistakes and to succeed.

Partnerships. Service-learning partnerships are collaborative, mutually beneficial, and address community needs.

Students participate in the development of reciprocal partnerships and share responsibility with community members, parents, organizations, and other students. These relationships afford opportunities to interact with people of diverse backgrounds and experience, resulting in mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation.

Progress Monitoring. Service-learning engages participants in an ongoing process to assess the quality of implementation and progress toward meeting specified goals, and uses results for improvement and sustainability.

Once students identify and authenticate the need, they use varied methods to observe and track change and improvement as they carry out the service learning process. Advancement toward intended or developing outcomes is examined, along with effectiveness of applied procedures and recognized mutual benefits. Findings are shared with stakeholders.

Duration and Intensity. Service-learning has sufficient duration and intensity to address community needs and meet specified outcomes.

The length of the experience allows for a complete and thorough process as articulated in the Five Stages of Service Learning, with age-appropriate content, skill development, and depth of material covered.



7

How do I get started with my SL Hours? 1. Choose Your School from approved list of Community Partner Schools 2. Complete OCPS Background Check – MUST complete BEFORE beginning SL hours! 3. Attend a Welcome Orientation at the school (optional) 4. Contact School Volunteer Coordinator to set up hours 5. Complete Your required amount of SL hours as designated by the course catalog

Step 1: Choose Your School

The following schools are the APPROVED Community Partners where you MUST complete your SL hours. You may not randomly choose a school in Orange County or another county, as these schools have been selected specifically due to their understanding and ability to help you with your Service Learning Hours. Please note: other Valencia campuses may allow you to choose any school for field observations; these are different than Service Learning hours. Please verify with your professor which school you should choose, as some professors may have specific schools they wish to work with for SL.

School Name & Info Contact Info Address Horizons Childcare & Learning Center Horizons Childcare is licensed by the Dept. of Children and Families (DCF) and provides childcare services for children from 2 weeks to 5 years of age. Horizons Childcare offers VPK, Pre-kindergarten, toddler and infant care, summer, winter, and spring break camps, and Arabic lessons.

Dina Khalil, Asst. Director

407-622-9307 or [email protected]

1089 N. Goldenrod Rd. Orlando, FL 32807

Lawton Chiles Elementary School Serves students in grades KG – Grade 5 with special Emotional and Behavioral Disorders (EBD) Unit.

Sharon Skoloski

[email protected]

Do NOT call to set up hours. Only EMAIL!

11001 Bloomfield Dr. Orlando, FL 32825

407-737-1470

Union Park Middle School Serves students in grades 6-8.

Elease Mills, Volunteer Coordinator

[email protected]

1844 Westfall Dr. Orlando, FL 32817

Colonial High School Home of the Grenadiers. Serves students in grades 9-12.

Taylor Vickery, Volunteer Coordinator

[email protected]

407-482-6300 ext. 6022888

9th Grade Center 7775 Valencia College Ln. Orlando, FL 32807 407-249-6369 Main Campus 6100 Oleander Dr Orlando, FL 32807 407-482-6300

United Cerebral Palsy of Central FL UCP provides the best support, education and therapy for children with and without disabilities. UCP provides a comprehensive SET of services — Support, Education and Therapy — to more than 3,000 children, teenagers and young adults. Offering 7 campuses in the Orange/Seminole county area.

Pamela Batlemento, Volunteer Coordinator

[email protected]

Various locations

Ask Professor which campus to contact!



8

Step 2: OCPS Background Check All students will be required to have background checks through Orange County Public Schools conducted during the term in which they are completing their Service Learning hours, preferably within the first 1-2 weeks of classes. This process involves only a background check and does NOT require fingerprinting. You may NOT set foot inside a school to complete your Service Learning hours WITHOUT FIRST being approved by Orange County Public Schools. To apply for your Background check, follow these steps: 1. BEFORE BEGINNING the process:

o Review the Orange County Public Schools Volunteer Eligibility Statement on page 10-11 in this handbook to make sure you understand what a background check will reveal and what may disqualify you from being approved. If you feel your background check will not be approved, please notify your professor, Service Learning Liaison and/or the Dean of Social Sciences and PE (Contact info on page 16) to discuss your concern. If you are not approved for your background check, you will NOT be able to complete the course, as the Service Learning hours are REQUIRED by the State of Florida.

o Set aside 5-15 minutes to complete the process. o Have your Government ID number available (most likely your Social Security number AND your

Driver’s License number) o Find a digital PHOTO of you! You will upload a photo of yourself or you may take a photo of yourself

during the process if you have a webcam on your computer. If you cannot upload or take a photo of yourself, you will have to take this photo when you go to the school’s sign-in station; some schools do not have their camera equipment, so it may be best to add the photo when applying to best assure you will be able to enter the school upon your arrival.

o Have the school name in which you wish to complete your Service Learning hours; see the list of approved schools on page 7. You must choose the school in which you wish to volunteer BEFORE completing the volunteer application. (If you want to go to Horizons Learning Center, it is not listed; please choose Lawton Chiles Elementary School for now to complete the background check.)



9

2. PROCESS of applying to become an OCPS ADDitions Volunteer:

o Go to: https://www.ocps.net/es/cr/resources/Pages/ADDitions.aspx o Click the blue Click Here button in the middle of the screen. o Another screen appears.

Choose 1 of the 2 cases: o If you have previously received a background check with OCPS ADDitions prior to June 2015, Scroll

down and click the first blue button: Previously Registered Additions. Follow the steps given.

o If you have NEVER registered with OCPS ADDitions, Follow these steps: • Click the Green button on the top left of the ADDitions that says Search Opportunities. • Then click the orange button that says Volunteers. • In the Search bar, type in the school in which you wish to complete your Service Learning hours.

Your school name should appear automatically underneath. Click search. If you are going to Horizon’s Learning Center, this school is not on the list; type in Lawton Chiles Elementary School instead. They will get your name but you will not be completing your hours there.

• Click on the blue View Details button under the ADDitions logo on the left. • Click the blue Sign up button under the ADDitions logo on the left. • Click the Blue Create a New Account button under Don’t have a user login. This will take a few

moments for the forms to load. • Review the 4 guidelines listed and then click the box I agree. • Click Next. • Enter an email address that you will check frequently. You do not have to use your Valencia Atlas

email. • Create a password you will remember! • Click Next. • Add the required fields in the next few frames. • In the Employment Information, please choose Currently a college student at Valencia. • Complete the rest of the required fields and safety questions. You must answer these questions

honestly and may not go back once you have clicked Next. • Complete the remaining fields clicking the green SUBMIT APPLICATION button on the FINAL

STEP screen.

3. Wait a few days, check your email you listed in the application process and log back into the OCPS site to verify your status; when approved, the status should say active. If you have not received an email within a few days or your status does not state active, please contact OCPS as listed on page 16. If you have not been approved within 1 week, please contact the Valencia College Service Learning Liaison listed on pg. 16.

When completing the application, do so honestly. If you have been arrested, you must state as such! Do not lie; it will cause your application to become voided and you will not be cleared EVER. If you have been arrested, you may need to provide court documentation when completing the application. You may contact the Valencia College Service Learning Liaison, your professor, Dean of Social Science or the school board office regarding their guidelines and requirements.



10

OCPS Volunteer Eligibility Statement

FPS – KC – 10-4-11 former Hiring Statement doc. – Updated by CR as the Volunteer Eligibility Statement per Legal Services 8/22/12

Orange County Public Schools Volunteer Eligibility Statement

All volunteer candidates with OCPS are subject to a criminal history check. In Florida, the entire arrest record is revealed to school districts, including sealed and/or expunged records and military court proceedings. Applicants must disclose this information even if told differently by a lawyer, judge, or other law enforcement individual. If you were given this information by a judge then those written instructions would need to be provided to OCPS. Prior criminal records may or may not result in disqualification for volunteering; however, failure to disclose this information will disqualify you for volunteering. Information that must be disclosed includes any offense that occurred whether as a juvenile or adult; therefore all adult and juvenile offenses must be listed. An applicant’s criminal history includes any offense for which the applicant posted bail; entered a pre-trial diversion program, pre-trial intervention program, teen or drug court or juvenile program; had adjudication withheld, was convicted or found guilty; was placed on probation; pled guilty or no contest; was jailed or imprisoned; or appeared in court; as a juvenile or adult. Sealed records, expunged records and military court proceedings must be disclosed. Note: DUI and reckless driving are criminal offenses. The criminal offenses listed below will render applicants ineligible to volunteer with Orange County Public Schools. WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO VOLUNTEER – Felony charges/convictions including, but not limited to the following:

¾ Sexual misconduct with certain developmentally disabled clients and reporting of misconduct ¾ Sexual misconduct with certain mental health clients and reporting of misconduct ¾ Sexual misconduct with certain forensic clients and reporting of misconduct ¾ Adult abuse, neglect or exploitation of aged persons or disabled adults ¾ Murder ¾ Manslaughter, aggravated manslaughter of an elderly person, disabled adult, or child, or

aggravated manslaughter of an officer, a firefighter, an emergency medical technician, or a paramedic.

¾ Vehicular homicide ¾ Killing an unborn child by injury to the mother ¾ Assault of a minor ¾ Aggravated assault ¾ Battery of a minor ¾ Aggravated battery ¾ Battery on a detention or commitment facility staff member ¾ Kidnapping ¾ False imprisonment ¾ Taking, enticing, or removing a child beyond the state limits with criminal intent pending custody

proceedings ¾ Carrying a child beyond state lines with criminal intent to avoid producing a child at a custody

hearing or delivering the child to the designated person ¾ Exhibiting a firearm or weapon within 1,000 feet of a school ¾ Possessing an electric weapon or device, destructive device, or other weapon on school property ¾ Sexual battery ¾ Prohibited acts of persons in familial or custodial authority ¾ Prostitution ¾ Lewd and lascivious behavior ¾ Lewd and indecent exposure ¾ Voyeurism or video voyeurism ¾ Arson ¾ Theft, robbery, robbery by sudden snatching, and related crimes if the offense is a felony ¾ Dealing in stolen property ¾ Carjacking ¾ Home-invasion robbery



11

FPS – KC – 10-4-11 former Hiring Statement doc. – Updated by CR as the Volunteer Eligibility Statement per Legal Services 8/22/12

¾ Fraudulent sale of controlled substances, only if the offense is a felony ¾ Abuse, aggravated abuse, or neglect of an elderly disabled adult ¾ Lewd or lascivious offenses committed upon or in the presence of an elderly person or disabled

adult ¾ Exploitation of an elderly person or disabled adult, if the offense was a felony ¾ Incest ¾ Child abuse, aggravated child abuse, or neglect of a child ¾ Contributing to the delinquency or dependency of a child ¾ Negligent treatment of children ¾ Sexual performance by a child ¾ Resisting arrest with violence ¾ Depriving a law enforcement, correctional, or correctional probation officer means of protection or

communication ¾ Aiding in an escape ¾ Aiding in the escape of juvenile inmates in correctional institutions ¾ Obscene literature ¾ Encouraging or recruiting another to join a criminal gang ¾ Drug abuse prevention and control only if the offense was a felony or if any other person involved

in the offense was a minor ¾ Inflicting cruel or inhuman treatment on an inmate resulting in great bodily harm ¾ Harboring, concealing, or aiding an escaped prisoner ¾ Introduction of contraband into a correctional facility ¾ Sexual misconduct in juvenile justice programs ¾ Contraband introduced into detention facilities ¾ All felony drug related convictions

WILL NOT BE ELIGIBLE TO VOLUNTEER - Any misdemeanor offenses prohibited under any of the following statutes

¾ Battery, if the victim was a child ¾ Luring or enticing a child

Any criminal act committed in another state or under federal law, which if committed in this state, constitutes an offense prohibited under any statute listed above. Any delinquent act committed in this state or any delinquent or criminal act committed in another state or under federal law which, if committed in this state, qualifies an individual for inclusion on the Registered Juvenile Sex Offender List under s. 943.0435(1)(a)1.d. MAY BE CONSIDERED IF CHARGE IS MORE THAN FIVE YEARS OLD

¾ Misdemeanor drug or paraphernalia ¾ Resisting arrest

MAY BE CONSIDERED ON A CASE BY CASE BASIS

¾ Cases pending ¾ Domestic violence ¾ Multiple arrests ¾ On probation (Crimes not listed above) ¾ City ordinances/criminal traffic offenses not listed above ¾ Any misdemeanor crime not listed above

NOTE: If you are considered eligible for volunteering under the above guidelines, this eligibility does not guarantee volunteer placement and/or employment with Orange County Public Schools.



12

Step 3: Attend Welcome Orientation at School (optional) Each Community Partner School hosts a Welcome Orientation; the event is usually 1 – 1 ½ hours and will give you relevant information about the school’s needs and its policies. It is highly recommended that you attend but it is not mandatory. The dates of the Welcome Orientations are posted on the TEP website www.valenciaTEP.wordpress.com PLEASE NOTE: United Cerebral Palsy of Central Florida (UCP) does not host a face-to-face Welcome Orientation but rather requires students to complete an online orientation. The forms and online presentation can be found on our TEP website in the TEP Important Dates tab (www.valenciaTEP.wordpress.com/tep-important-dates)

Step 4: Contact School As soon as your background check is approved, you may contact one of the partner schools. Some courses will be doing individual projects and some will do group projects. Follow your professor’s specific guidelines on how to complete the hours and how to complete the assignments that are relevant to the Service Learning hours. Please contact the school(s) by phone, letting them know you are a Valencia College student. When you contact the teacher/school, DO NOT leave a long distance number (any number without a 407 area code); staff does not have long distance access. Some of our Partner Schools will host a welcome Orientation. These dates will vary and be given to you by your professor. Please try to attend this orientation that is hosted at the specific school; you will receive valuable information about the school and the different needs that you will serve. Each school has a different need and you will be serving that need, not just observing or randomly assisting teachers. Some schools will have a specific teacher who will coordinate the Service Learning; when you call the school, they will inform you of this contact person. Tips for Contacting Schools: ü If calling, DO NOT leave a long distance phone number to return the call. Teachers cannot return long

distance calls. ü State who you are and why you are contacting them. For example: “I am Sarah Smith, a Valencia College

Teacher Education student and would like to speak to someone about volunteering for my education class.”

ü Once you have received the specific teacher, state when you are available and hours you need to complete.

ü If sending an email, state in the subject line-“Valencia College student Volunteer hours" ü If no one contacts you within two days, call again or go to the school and ask to see someone. Teachers

are very busy and you are not their primary responsibility. The schools love our Valencia students but have many responsibilities to attend to; be patient but do not allow more than a few days to pass before contacting them again! This is your responsibility to complete the required Service Learning hours; you will not pass the class if you do not complete the hours, regardless of the reason!



13

Step 5: Complete your Service Learning Hours Your professor will inform you of the specific hours that are required for your course as it is designated in the course catalog. Do not assume that SL hours are the same as other Valencia Campus Field Observation hours. East Campus has a special Service Learning program that differs from other Valencia Campuses.

Tips for completing your Service Learning hours: ü When completing your hours, get in and get out. We recommend a minimum of 3 hours per visit, 5

hours is even better. ü Be on time. When you schedule your time with a teacher, she/he and the students are counting on

you. If you must cancel, send an email BEFORE so the teacher knows not to count on you. ü Dress appropriately: Professional business attire is required. Avoid jeans, shorts, short skirts, low-cut

tops, t-shirts and sandals. Ask yourself, “Would I hire someone like me?” You may be returning for employment, so make a good first impression. Ask if you are unsure about the attire! Some schools will ask you to wear certain clothing depending on the atmosphere of the school and the activities in which you will participate.

ü Wear your Service Learning lapel pin. Each student should receive a lapel pin from her/his professor. Valencia College is very proud of the service our students give to our community partners. Wearing the lapel pin will designate you as a Valencia College student and participant of this great program.

ü Respect each individual school’s policies and inquire about them at the time you schedule an appointment for your visits.

ü You can NEVER be left alone with a student, under ANY circumstance. If a teacher or administrator asks you to do so, please decline and let them know you are not qualified.

ü No texting or using your cell phone. Turn them off and put them away. ü Use your time wisely. Talk to the teacher to learn more about the program; look at the curriculum and

books and make it a worthwhile experience. ü Fill out the verification of hours form BEFORE asking for teacher’s signature. Bring it each time! A

teacher does not have time to write the hours observed, school name, phone number, etc. The teacher should only have to sign their name, phone extension and email address. The Verification Form is on the last page of this Handbook and extra copies may be found on our website www.valenciaTEP.wordpress.com

ü If you are required to interview a teacher, do so at her/his convenience. Ask the teacher when it would be convenient for them to sit with you and answer a few questions. DO NOT email the teacher the questions and ask them to complete the form unless they request you do so. Teachers are very busy.

ü Look for artifacts to include in your portfolio. You will need to include a minimal amount of artifacts: brochures, handouts, discipline plan, newsletters, lesson plans, and pictures.

ü BEFORE taking photos, get permission from the teacher. Taking photos of students may not be allowed Suggestion: take photos without faces of the students or of their backs so they cannot be identified. Don’t forget to take photos of you!

ü Valencia holidays and OCPS holidays are different; make sure to get a school calendar to know when the school is closed and what holidays they are off.

ü Do not ask your professor for permission to skip her/his class so you may complete your Service Learning hours. Hours are to be completed on your time. Plan accordingly.

ü Standardized testing months begin in March. Many schools do not want visitors or volunteers once testing begins. Plan accordingly.

ü Service Learning is Service + Learning! Hence, it is very important that you draw connections throughout your SL experience between theory (key concepts in textbook) and practice (service in the classroom).

ü Say Thank You.



14

OCPS Volunteer Guidelines



15

Principles for How We Treat Each Other

How We Treat Each Other Our Practice of Respect and Nonviolence

1. Create a hospitable and accountable community. We all arrive in isolation and need the

generosity of friendly welcomes. Bring all of yourself to the work in this community. Welcome others to this place and this work, and presume that you are welcomed as well. Hospitality is the essence of restoring community.

2. Listen deeply. Listen intently to what is said; listen to the feelings beneath the words. Strive to achieve a balance between listening and reflecting, speaking and acting.

3. Create an advice free zone. Replace advice with curiosity as we work together for peace and justice. Each of us is here to discover our own truths. We are not here to set someone else straight, to “fix” what we perceive as broken in another member of the group.

4. Practice asking honest and open questions. A great question is ambiguous, personal and provokes anxiety.

5. Give space for unpopular answers. Answer questions honestly even if the answer seems unpopular. Be present to listen not debate, correct or interpret.

6. Respect silence. Silence is a rare gift in our busy world. After someone has spoken, take time to reflect without immediately filling the space with words. This applies to the speaker, as well – be comfortable leaving your words to resound in the silence, without refining or elaborating on what you have said.

7. Suspend judgment. Set aside your judgments. By creating a space between judgments and reactions, we can listen to the other, and to ourselves, more fully.

8. Identify assumptions. Our assumptions are usually invisible to us, yet they undergird our worldview. By identifying our assumptions, we can then set them aside and open our viewpoints to greater possibilities.

9. Speak your truth. You are invited to say what is in your heart, trusting that your voice will be heard and your contribution respected. Own your truth by remembering to speak only for yourself. Using the first person “I” rather than “you” or “everyone” clearly communicates the personal nature of your expression.

10. When things get difficult, turn to wonder. If you find yourself disagreeing with another, becoming judgmental, or shutting down in defense, try turning to wonder: “I wonder what brought her to this place?” “I wonder what my reaction teaches me?” “I wonder what he’s feeling right now?”

11. Practice slowing down. Simply the speed of modern life can cause violent damage to the soul. By intentionally practicing slowing down we strengthen our ability to extend non-violence to others—and to ourselves.

12. All voices have value. Hold these moments when a person speaks as precious because these are the moments when a person is willing to stand for something, trust the group and offer something he or she sees as valuable.

13. Maintain confidentiality. Create a safe space by respecting the confidential nature and content of discussions held in the group. Allow what is said in the group to remain there.

Prepared by the Peace and Justice Institute with considerable help from the works of Peter Block,

Parker Palmer, the Dialogue Group and the Center for Renewal and Wholeness in Higher Education

P E A C E A N D J U S T I C E I N S T I T U T E A l l P e o p l e , A l l V o i c e s , A l l M a t t e r .

valenciacollege.edu/pji

valenciacollege.edu/pji



16

Who Can I Contact for Help?

TEP Website: https://valenciatep.wordpress.com/

For questions about Service Learning and Background Checks:

Professor Lauri Lott, Service Learning Liaison [email protected]

For issues related to specific OCPS requirements and background checks:

407-317-3200 ext. 200-2932 or 200-2579

For more information about the AA in Early Childhood or the TEP Program:

Dr. Yasmeen Qadri [email protected] or Dr. Lee Thomas, Dean of Social Sciences & PE [email protected]

TEP Faculty:

Rey Almeida – [email protected]

Lauri Lott – [email protected]

Jane Maguire – [email protected]

Dr. Patricia McNeese – [email protected]

Dr. Kamran Qadri – [email protected]

Dr. Yasmeen Qadri – [email protected]

Anna Saintil – [email protected]

Sharon Skoloski – [email protected]



17

References Kaye, C. B., (2010). The complete guide to service learning: Proven, practical ways to engage students in

civic responsibility, academic curriculum, and social action. Minneapolis, MN: Free Spirit Publishing Nitschke-Shaw, D. & Ziesler, Y. (n.d.). Faculty Guide to Service-Learning. Retrieved from

http://www.compactnh.org/downloads/Faculty_Guide.pdf Orange County Public Schools. (2015). Retrieved from

https://www.ocps.net/es/cr/resources/Pages/ADDitions.aspx

Valencia College Service Learning. (2015). Retrieved from http://valenciacollege.edu/servicelearning/

Forms Please complete the following forms:

1. SL Verification Form – This form is on a separate sheet so you may remove from Handbook and use each time you go to the Community Partner School to complete your SL hours. Use a separate form for each course that requires Service Learning; you may make copies of this form if you will need it for more hours or for several courses.

2. SL Statement of Understanding – Review and complete the lower portion of the form. Return to your Professor, as required.



18

Service Learning Verification Form (Sample) 1. Use this blank form to fill out EACH time you go to the school for your hours. 2. Complete the information BEFORE asking teacher to sign. Your supervising teacher should only have to sign the form. 3. The teacher must sign for each hour you have completed; ONE SIGNATURE FOR ALL HOURS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE! 4. If the Service Learning hours are not properly documented and verified, then a grade of F will be given irrespective of the grade you

have had. Students are required to use the enclosed forms and no other documents will be accepted in its place. Use one (1) Service Learning Verification Form per course; using the same verification form for multiple courses or semesters is fraud and can result in suspension.

Student Name: Selma Smith Course Name: EDF2005 Course Date: 1/10/13 – 5/5/13

Hours SLDate SLTime1hrblocks

School Gradeorsubject

Teacher’sName

Teacher’sEmail Teacher’sPhonewithextension

Teacher’sSignature

1. 4-15-13

8:30-9:30 OakHighSchool 10thHistory

Ms.Smith [email protected] 407-351-4217Ext.951

2. 4-15-13 9:30-10:30 OakHighSchool 10thHistory







Mr.Thomas [email protected] 407-351-4217Ext.922

6. 4-26-13 8:30-9:30 HarveyElem. 2 Ms.Simek [email protected] 407-888-1212ext.123

7. 4-26-13 9:30-10:30 HarveyElem. 2 Ms.Simek [email protected] 407-888-1212ext.123

8. 4-26-13 10:30-11-30 HarveyElem. 2 Mr.Imperial [email protected] 407-888-1212ext.222

9. 4-26-13 11:30-12:30 HarveyElem. 2 Mr.Imperial [email protected] 407-888-1212ext.222

10. 4-26-13 12:30-1:30 HarveyElem. 2 Mr.Imperial [email protected] 407-888-1212ext.222

11. 4-27-13 8:30-9:30 ArborElem. Music Mrs.Brown [email protected] 407-833-4567ext.789



14. 4-27-13 11:30-12:30

ArborElem. Music Mrs.Brown [email protected] 407-833-4567ext.789






20. 12:30-1:30 ArborElem. Music Mrs.Brown [email protected] 407-833-4567ext.789



19

Service Learning Verification Form 1. Use this blank form to fill out EACH time you go to the school for your hours. 2. Complete the information BEFORE asking teacher to sign. Your supervising teacher should only have to sign the form. 3. The teacher must sign for each hour you have completed; ONE SIGNATURE FOR ALL HOURS IS NOT ACCEPTABLE! 4. If the Service Learning hours are not properly documented and verified, then a grade of F will be given irrespective of

the grade you have had. Students are required to use the enclosed forms and no other documents will be accepted in its place. Use one (1) Service Learning Verification Form per course; using the same verification form for multiple courses or semesters is fraud and can result in suspension.

Student Name __________________ Course Name: _________________ Course Date: ________ - _________

Hours SL Date SL Time 1 hour blocks

School Grade or subject

Teacher’s Name

Teacher’s Email Teacher’s Phone with extension

Teacher’s Signature

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20.



20



21

TEP Service Learning Statement of Understanding (STUDENT) TeacherEducationProgram=TEP ServiceLearning=SL CommunityPartnerSchool=CPS

Course SLHoursEDF2005IntrototheTeachingProfession 20RequiredEDF2085IntrotoDiversityforEducators: 20RequiredEME2040IntrotoTechnologyforEducators: 10EEC2001IntrotoEarlyChildhoodEducation: 10EDF2130Child&AdolescentDevelopment 5-10

Thestudentunderstandsandcommitsto: • Attend an Education Orientation outlining the Teacher Education Program. • Complete an OCPS background check. • Complete a Pre-Service paper (interview or research). • Reflect on SL experience. • Present a digital presentation of the SL experience. • Submit a signed SL Verification form documenting the SL hours completed. • Complete a brief end-of-term evaluation of the TEP SL program.

o Comply with CPS policies, standards and regulations o Serve in a professional manner with respect for others, especially with regard to confidentiality. o Arrive on time or notify the CPS if I cannot attend due to illness or emergency. o Take full responsibility for any risk of property damage or personal injury that may be sustained as a result of

these activities. o Attend a Welcome Orientation at the CPS (optional). o Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at CPS identifying their requirement and in what grade level/subject

preferred. o Complete SL hours at one of our CP schools in an area of need as suggested by CPS.

The CPS understands and commits to: ü Host face-to-face or virtual Welcome Orientation for VC students to tour the school and understand the policies of volunteering. ü Inform TEP of your school’s needs. ü Place students with a teacher, department or program to address the need while student gains valuable experience and understanding of

the intricacies of teaching. ü Discuss in advance with the student any need for change of placement or hours of service. ü While serving as a SL CPS, the student will not be asked to transport any person, be alone with any minors, be in any private home without

a CPS representative, or violate the agreements set forth by the CPS or Valencia. ü Complete a brief end-of-term evaluation of the TEP SL program.

StudentName:__________________________________________________________________Course#andCRN#:_________________________________

Address:_________________________________________________________City________________________State_______________Zip___________________

AtlasEmail:___________________________________________@mail.valenciacollege.edu Phone:_____________________________________

HorizonsLearningCtr LawtonChilesElem.School UnionParkMiddleSchool

ColonialHighSchool

UCPofCentralFL

Other(withapprovalfromProfessor):TheschoolIhavechosenisnotoneoftheCommunityPartnerSchools.IunderstandthatIwillcompletemySLhoursasdescribedinmycourseatmyownrisk.NameofSchool:_________________________________________________________________

StudentSignature:______________________________________________________________________Date:___________________________________________

StudentResponsibilities

CommunityPartnerResponsibilities

StudentInformation

Includedaspartofcoursew

ork(perProfessorchoice):

IncludedaspartofservicetoCPS:

valencia college, east campus service learning handbook · 2016-01-09 · valencia college, east...

Documents