LETTERHEAD

SAMPLE TRAINING SUMMARY REPORT

TO: PennSERVE

Maureen Eccleston, Assistant Director

FROM: AmeriCorps Program Director

RE: Summary Report for 2017 National Service-Learning Conference

DATE: April 10, 2017

The following are summaries of the sessions our staff members attended at the National Service-Learning Conference in Long Beach, California, on March 17-19, 2017.

Better Bath Water, Better Baby: Enriching Traditional Classroom Curriculum Through Service

This workshop described methods to make service-learning more accepted in the classroom and community. Two teachers already involved in service-learning presented ideas that have worked in their school district in Ohio. Included ways to influence teachers to implement service projects, how to get students interested, and gaining cooperation from community and businesses.

Connecting Curriculum and Community: A Call for Renewal

Presentation about changing schools’ attitudes about service-learning. Information on theories behind service, and examples of specific service projects that have worked in Iowa schools. Unique ideas for “Celebration” (evaluation process). Importance of need for school reform. Quote: “When you stand in the middle of the road, you get hit by traffic going in both directions.”

Business Panel on Service-Learning Partnerships

Panel of business leaders from Wingspread Summit on service-learning and school-to-work. Discussed the business perspective on school-business partnerships. Offered tips on how to initiate partnerships. Stressed the importance of building relationships between work and school: the effect of education on workforce development, creating a healthier worker and workplace.

“Tomorrow” Is Already Here!

Demographer Harold Hodgkinson used humor and facts to discuss the diversity of population in the United States and the world, and the trends toward a changing population where the “minorities” will become the majority. He presented information on how these trends will affect education and social services. Some very interesting information on Pennsylvania: 80% of people living in PA were born here, largest elderly population next to Florida, government officials in office for long periods of time—creates an atmosphere for one of the lowest crime rates in U.S.—but also discourages new ideas and makes change very difficult. Quote: “Getting a new idea across the state line may be considered a crime.”

Amazing Grace: The Life of the Community Around the Urban School

Author Jonathan Kozol presented a story of life in urban schools where crime and poverty are everyday situations. He illustrated, through the use of his personal experience with families in these areas, the inequality that still exists in many urban schools and neighborhoods. Compelling material that causes one to despair for the future of children in America.

Marketing Service-Learning to Your Community: A Tool Box of Proven Strategies

The workshop provided information on building strong partnerships with the community, developing and delivering effective presentations, and tips for working with the media.

6.4 Training Summary Report Sample

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