Washington, D.C. - Congressman Dave Loebsack today introduced legislation that will help students apply the knowledge and skills gained in the classroom to real world experiences by incorporating volunteerism and civic engagement in curriculum. The Engaging Students Through Service-Learning Act aims to connect the classroom to the community by establishing a national center to expand opportunities for students to incorporate skills that are critical to success in the 21st century economy, such as critical thinking, problem solving and collaboration, with activities outside the classroom. The bill would also help teachers to provide students with this hands-on education.
"Iowans have a strong sense of community and have seen firsthand the difference dedicated volunteers can make. The earlier we can start incorporating volunteerism and civic engagement in school settings, the more likely it is that students will continue to participate in their communities in meaningful ways throughout their adult lives. What's more, students who participate in this type of hands-on education can boost their academic engagement and performance, which will help them secure good jobs and contribute to Iowa's economy," said Congressman Dave Loebsack.
"We must make our schools better. We simply can't keep organizing our classrooms and using the same teaching approaches that have been used for decades if we want to improve outcomes that result in students who are truly college and career ready and internationally competitive," said Teri Dary, Co-Chair National Coalition for Academic Service-Learning.
A list of groups and individuals supporting the bill can be found here.
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