Kamehameha Schools and Youth Service Hawaii host first annual

February 26, 2003

Contributed by Kekoa Paulsen

Service learning, the integration of community service into school curriculum, has visible benefits, according to Kelley Oshiro, executive director of Youth Service Hawaii. "Studies have shown that students who take part in service learning projects have higher grades, better attendance in school and a greater sense of personal and social responsibility," she said. "Service learning goes beyond community service," said Judy Cramer, a teacher at Kamehameha Elementary School and board president of Youth Service Hawaii. "For instance, rather than simply volunteering to serve meals at a shelter, students will study the plight of the homeless and develop possible solutions to the problem." The conference, entitled "Nou Iho Ke Kuleana" (The responsibility is mine) will feature breakout sessions led by students of all ages and teachers from both public and private schools as well as several community organizations showcasing their programs. Nainoa Thompson will deliver the keynote address. See attached conference schedule for a partial list of breakout sessions. The registration fee is $50 for adults and $10 for students and includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Same-day bus transportation from Honolulu International Airport will be provided free for neighbor island participants, to and from the conference. For a registration form or more information, please call Youth Service Hawaii at 843-3466. Youth Service Hawaii is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote and instill quality service-learning in Hawaii, engaging students as active and compassionate citizens in the community. Youth Service Hawaii supports the efforts of teachers, students, and community organizations in their development of service-learning through programs, training and technical support that builds capacity and a lasting infrastructure for service-learning practice in the State. Kamehameha Schools is a statewide educational system founded and endowed by the legacy of Princess Bernice Pauahi Bishop, comprising three campuses on three islands and more than 30 preschool sites throughout the state of Hawaii. Nearly 4,900 preschool through grade 12 students of Hawaiian ancestry are currently enrolled. Through a range of outreach programs and financial aid opportunities, Kamehameha extends its educational reach and resources to meet the needs of thousands of other Hawaiian learners not served within its classrooms.