Title One funding, a federal program aimed at supporting schools serving a high percentage of students from low-income families, plays a pivotal role in addressing educational disparities. While these funds often focus on academic interventions, there's a compelling case for integrating service learning into the fabric of Title One schools. In this blog post, we'll delve into the significance of service learning and how its incorporation can enrich the educational experience for students in these schools.
7 Tips for Positive Communication with Families in Your Classroom
Effective communication between educators and families plays a crucial role in a child’s academic success and overall development. When teachers and families work together, they create a supportive environment that fosters learning and growth. However, maintaining positive communication can sometimes be challenging, especially in today’s fast-paced world. To help educators navigate this important aspect of their role, here are seven tips for fostering positive communication with families in your classroom
5 Ways to Motivate Students to Build Testing Stamina
Testing stamina is a crucial skill for students to develop. Whether it's standardized assessments, final exams, or even daily quizzes, the ability to maintain focus and perform well under pressure is invaluable. However, motivating students to build testing stamina can be challenging. Many factors, such as anxiety, lack of interest, and distractions, can hinder their progress. In this blog post, we'll explore five effective strategies to motivate students and help them develop the endurance needed for successful testing.
How to Use Science of Reading in a Service Learning Experience
The Science of Reading (SoR) is a research-based approach to teaching reading that emphasizes systematic, explicit instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. This evidence-based approach has been shown to significantly improve reading outcomes for students of all ages. Integrating the Science of Reading principles into service learning experiences can enhance literacy instruction … Continue reading How to Use Science of Reading in a Service Learning Experience
5 Effective Strategies Your Student Council Can Implement to Prevent Bullying
Bullying is a huge issue in schools worldwide, affecting millions of students each year. As the leading representatives of student voices, student councils have a crucial role to play in creating a safe and inclusive school environment. By implementing proactive measures, student councils can effectively address and prevent bullying within their schools. In this blog post, we'll explore five actionable strategies your student council can adopt to combat bullying and promote kindness and respect among peers.
How the 5 Steps of Making an Impact Support Social Emotional Learning
Social emotional learning (SEL) equips students with the necessary tools to navigate life's challenges, build healthy relationships, and make a positive impact on their communities. But how can we integrate SEL into real-world experiences that empower students to become agents of change? Enter the five steps of making an impact.
7 Tips to Planning a Schoolwide Service Day
One impactful way to instill values of compassion and empathy in our students is by organizing a schoolwide service day. Not only does it provide an opportunity for students to give back to their community, but it also fosters a sense of belonging and responsibility within the school environment. In this blog post, we'll discuss seven tips to help you successfully plan a schoolwide service day that leaves a lasting impact.
7 Ways Service Learning Helps Elementary Gifted Students Engage in Classroom Activities
Gifted students possess unique talents and abilities that often require specialized educational approaches to keep them engaged and challenged in the classroom. By connecting classroom learning with real-world applications and community needs, service learning provides an enriching experience that fosters engagement, critical thinking, and social-emotional development. In this blog post, we'll explore seven ways service learning can effectively engage elementary gifted students in classroom activities, enhancing their overall learning experience and personal growth.
10 Service Learning Projects Schools Can Do That Help Families
Service learning projects offer a unique opportunity for schools to engage students in meaningful community service while also fostering connections with families. By involving families in service learning initiatives, schools can strengthen relationships, promote a sense of civic responsibility, and empower students to make a positive impact in their communities. In this blog post, we'll explore ten service learning projects that schools can implement to benefit both students and families.
10 Ways to Build Classroom Community in the Middle School Classroom
A strong classroom community not only enhances academic achievement but also promotes social emotional development and overall well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore ten effective strategies for cultivating classroom community, with a special focus on integrating service-learning.
5 Creative Methods for Kindness Clubs to Solicit Donations
Whether you're planning community service projects, organizing charitable events, or spreading kindness in your school or neighborhood, obtaining donations is crucial. Fortunately, there are numerous approaches available to help your club secure the necessary funds and supplies. In this blog post, we'll explore five effective methods for Kindness Clubs to solicit donations, including leveraging platforms like DonorsChoose and Amazon Wishlists.
Spread Holiday Cheer: 7 Tips for Fostering Kindness with Your Elf on the Shelf
The holiday season is not just about decorations and gifts; it's also the perfect time to teach children about kindness, empathy, and the joy of giving. One delightful way to instill these values is by incorporating your Elf on the Shelf into acts of kindness. We've compiled seven tips to help you encourage kindness with your elf, along with a fantastic resource titled Winter Holiday Writing Prompts Countdown to Winter Break with Acts of Kindness.
Teach for Impact: Nurturing Empathy, Compassion, and Knowledge in Elementary School Classrooms through Service Learning
In the world of teaching, teachers do more than just teach in classrooms. We're not just asking, "What are we teaching?" but also, "How are we teaching to make an impact?" The blog posts in this series are about exploring how students doing helpful things while applying knowledge (called service learning), can really change elementary … Continue reading Teach for Impact: Nurturing Empathy, Compassion, and Knowledge in Elementary School Classrooms through Service Learning
Connecting the Classroom to the Real World: 5 Tips for Elementary Teachers
Elevate your teaching game! Our latest blog post unveils 5 game-changing tips for elementary teachers to seamlessly connect classroom learning with real-life adventures. Plus, discover a powerful example of service learning that empowers students to make a positive impact. Ready to transform your teaching approach? Dive into the blog now!
7 Tips to Planning a Great Trunk or Treat Event
Planning a fantastic Trunk or Treat event is easy with our 7 essential tips. From early preparation and creative decorations to safety measures and inclusivity, you'll have all you need to make your event unforgettable. Plus, our special bonus tip: spread kindness through a heartwarming project.
5 Projects for Your School’s Kindness Club to Do This Fall
Fall into the season of kindness with our Kindness Club's fantastic projects! From crafting cozy care packages for seniors to hosting a gratitude-filled 'Thankful Tree,' these ideas will make your school a better place. Don't forget to explore our other post for even more kindness-spreading inspiration!
5 Ways to Teach Empathy through Service Learning
Teaching empathy is an essential part of helping students become compassionate individuals. Service learning, which combines learning with community service, is a powerful tool to instill this quality. In this blog post, we'll explore five ways to teach empathy through service learning.
8 Ways for Your Kindness Club to Spread Kindness at Your School
Kindness is a powerful force that can transform school environments, creating a positive atmosphere where students feel valued, supported, and motivated to learn. One effective way to promote kindness within your school is by starting or joining a Kindness Club. This club can serve as a catalyst for positive change and make your school a … Continue reading 8 Ways for Your Kindness Club to Spread Kindness at Your School
7 Tips to Planning a Successful Kindness Club Activity
Planning a successful Kindness Club activity can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or a student, creating an event that spreads kindness and positivity can have a lasting impact on your school or community. To help you organize a memorable activity, here are seven tips to guide you through … Continue reading 7 Tips to Planning a Successful Kindness Club Activity
10 Reasons High School Students Need to Engage in Service Learning in the Classroom
Service learning is an educational approach that combines classroom instruction with meaningful community service. High school students, in particular, can greatly benefit from this immersive learning experience. In this blog post, we will explore ten compelling reasons why service learning should be an integral part of the high school curriculum.
What every student needs to know to plan impactful service projects
Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse! Part of the Schools that Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness (Schools that R.O.C.K.) program is a course for students (high school & college) to know the basics of planning a service project, event, or program. You may have a student that says, "I want to make a difference" or "I … Continue reading What every student needs to know to plan impactful service projects
10 Ways to Get Youth Involved in your Volunteer Projects
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse! This post comes from a webinar (watch here on YouTube) I did years ago for community partners who want to get youth involved in their service projects for Make a Difference Day. But I found these tips are very useful for our Schools that Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness programs … Continue reading 10 Ways to Get Youth Involved in your Volunteer Projects
10 Ways to Get Youth Involved in your Service Projects
This post comes from a webinar I did for community partners who want to get youth involved in their service projects for Make a Difference Day. But I found these tips are very useful for programs as they plan projects to get youth involved. Check out the 10 Ways to get Youth Involved in your Service Projects.
Creating Valuable Service Learning Experiences for your Students that lead to Big Impact
Welcome to Project Stella Resources! We provide you with tips and curriculum that you can use in the classroom and when working with youth so you are confident that you are making a difference in the lives of your students. Part of the Schools that Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness (Schools that R.O.C.K.) program is … Continue reading Creating Valuable Service Learning Experiences for your Students that lead to Big Impact
Top Finalists want to inspire other kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion and Kindness
Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Blog! I had an amazing opportunity this year of going through nominations and working with a selection committee to spotlight young people who share their inspiring stories in the book, 52 Kids who R.O.C.K. Every Day: Inspiring stories of young people who Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness. We asked … Continue reading Top Finalists want to inspire other kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion and Kindness
21 Self-care Tips for Teachers to help you be more positive each day
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse Blog! Teachers, listen. Hear me out. I know you and I know how much time and energy you put towards taking care of your classroom and offering the best to your students. You worry about seating arrangements. You make sure no one goes hungry. You take care … Continue reading 21 Self-care Tips for Teachers to help you be more positive each day
5 Ways to show Appreciation to your Teaching Staff
Tips for showing appreciation to your teaching staff.
7 Classroom Management Tips to Help your Thrive not just Survive the end of the year
Hello! Welcome to the Project Stella Resources Blog! We are in the last month of school! Watch this video and then check out our 7 Classroom Management Tips to help your THRIVE, not just SURVIVE, the end of the school year. This is video from a Facebook LIVE I did in my group, "Raising Kids … Continue reading 7 Classroom Management Tips to Help your Thrive not just Survive the end of the year
5 Easy Ways to find Volunteer Opportunities for Kids
The Kindness Clubhouse promotes youth involvement in service projects. Global Youth Service Day in April, Hunger Action Month in September, and Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week in November highlight key times for kids to volunteer. The post suggests 5 ways to find age-appropriate volunteer opportunities, including community agencies, schools, personal discussions, outdoor activities, and Youth Service America.
Service Projects for Kids: Steps to doing a Coat & Scarf Drive
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse! Global Youth Service Day is just one of the opportunities for schools and organizations to focus on having their students lead service projects. We celebrate it every April and it kicks off an important initiative to empower youth to serve and make a different in their community. In this … Continue reading Service Projects for Kids: Steps to doing a Coat & Scarf Drive
Planning a Global Youth Service Day Project: Steps to doing a Coat & Scarf Drive
Hello! Welcome to the Project Stella Resources Blog! Global Youth Service Day is coming up. We celebrate it every April and it kicks off an important initiative to empower youth to serve and make a different in their community. In this series on Project Stella Resources, I will provide example of projects that kids can … Continue reading Planning a Global Youth Service Day Project: Steps to doing a Coat & Scarf Drive
Planning a Global Youth Service Day project: Steps for youth doing Project Comfort Kits
Hello! Welcome to the Project Stella Resources Blog! Global Youth Service Day is coming up. We celebrate it every April and it kicks off an important initiative to empower youth to serve and make a different in their community. In this series on Project Stella Resources, I will provide example of projects that kids can … Continue reading Planning a Global Youth Service Day project: Steps for youth doing Project Comfort Kits
Top 12 Books Recommendations from Moms who R.O.C.K.
Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Resources Blog! We recently finished up our Moms who R.O.C.K. (Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness) Conference. At the end of the conference, during our LIVE Q&A sessions, I asked our presenters for book recommendations they have for personal development and parenting. New here? I have these blog posts to help … Continue reading Top 12 Books Recommendations from Moms who R.O.C.K.
5 things you can do today to stop bullying in your classroom
In this post, I am going to provide 5 ideas of things you can do TODAY to stop bullying in your classroom. These tips can be implemented as soon as you get back to school.
50 Books Your Child Should Read before Turning 8, Part 6 – Exploration & Discovery
This is Part Three of a Six-Part Series on the 50 Books Every Child Should Read Before they Turn 8. All of these books teach valuable life lessons on: Part One: ResponsibilityPart Two: PerseverancePart Three: KindnessPart Four: Family & FriendsPart Five: CouragePart Six: Exploration & Discovery *You can click on the book titles below to … Continue reading 50 Books Your Child Should Read before Turning 8, Part 6 – Exploration & Discovery
5 Awesome Ways Your School Can Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
Transform your classroom, school, and community with students who Radiate Outrageous Compassion and Kindness. Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse Blog! In today’s fast-paced world, schools are more than just centers for academic learning; they are communities where students develop the social and emotional skills that will guide them through life. Creating an environment that … Continue reading 5 Awesome Ways Your School Can Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
5 Awesome Ways to Appreciate Kids for being Kind and Compassionate to others
Hello! Welcome to Kindness Clubhouse! There are SO many benefits to making recognition and appreciation a priority at home, at work, and in the classroom. It creates a more positive environment, keeps people coming back, and serves as an amazing recruitment and publicity tool. It is one of my quick tips for Service Project Coordinators. … Continue reading 5 Awesome Ways to Appreciate Kids for being Kind and Compassionate to others
Teachers Who R.O.C.K.: 10 Curriculum creators that encourage kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
Each week Project Stella Resources wants to feature Teachers who R.O.C.K. These teachers have practices in place in their classroom that encourage students to Radiate Outrageous Compassion and Kindness. In this post I am providing a list of 10 teachers who have created curriculum and resources, all available on Teachers Pay Teachers, that teach children … Continue reading Teachers Who R.O.C.K.: 10 Curriculum creators that encourage kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
5 Reasons you need to start a Kindness Club at your school or in your community today
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse Blog! A Kindness Club can transform your school. It encourages and inspires students to think beyond themselves and seek out opportunities to show compassion and kindness. In this Blog post, I share five reasons that starting a Kindness Club will transform your classroom, school, and community with students that … Continue reading 5 Reasons you need to start a Kindness Club at your school or in your community today
50 Books Your Child Should Read before Turning 8, Part 5 – Courage
This is Part Three of a Six Part Series on the 50 Books Every Child Should Read Before they Turn 8. All of these books teach valuable life lessons on: Part One: Responsibility Part Two: Perseverance Part Three: Kindness Part Four: Family & Friends Part Five: Courage Part Six: Exploration & Discovery *You can click on … Continue reading 50 Books Your Child Should Read before Turning 8, Part 5 – Courage
5 Ways Volunteering helps Reduce a Teen’s Anxiety
This post shares a personal experience with anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts, and emphasizes the positive impact of volunteering in reducing anxiety for teenagers. It discusses how volunteering increases self-worth, develops new skills, connects with positive role models, fosters gratitude, and helps in getting "out of their head". The author also offers resources for starting volunteering.
7 Ways to fit Service in your Family’s Busy Schedule
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse! I was talking to my mom on the phone the other day when she said, "you should teach families with busy schedules how to do service without it creating more to do." My mom has a really good point (she usually does). I remember growing up with three sisters … Continue reading 7 Ways to fit Service in your Family’s Busy Schedule
12 Inspiring Movies for your child to watch on break
The following is a list of 12 movies and documentaries that are recommended to inspire children and teens. Some inspire acts of kindness while others inspire you to be yourself - even when faced with challenges and adversity. As with any of my recommendations, I strongly encourage parents to view the films for themselves first. … Continue reading 12 Inspiring Movies for your child to watch on break
50 Books your Child should read before turning 8, part 4 – Friendship & Family
This is Part Four of a Six Part Series on the 50 Books Every Child Should Read Before they Turn 8. All of these books teach valuable life lessons on: Responsibility Perseverance Family & Friends Courage Exploration & Discovery Kindness And, as a gift to you, I have a Self-Care for Teachers Journal that you can … Continue reading 50 Books your Child should read before turning 8, part 4 – Friendship & Family
25 items to have in your home or classroom to inspire kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Resources Blog! Encouraging kids to be kind to one another takes some thought. You can only repeat "be nice" a couple of times before kids tune it out. But, you can have reminders present in other ways that keep the message in front of them. In this post, I … Continue reading 25 items to have in your home or classroom to inspire kids to Radiate Outrageous Compassion & Kindness
3 Classroom Management tips that encourage students to be kind
Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Blog! In high school I decided that I wanted to become a teacher. And after college, I was able to teach my favorite grade - 5th grade! I loved those years and enjoyed coming in to see the students each day. But with any of the middle grades, there … Continue reading 3 Classroom Management tips that encourage students to be kind
5 Activities to do during Winter Break that encourages kids to do acts of kindness
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.11.1" custom_padding="24.3281px|0px|2px|0px|false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.11.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.11.1" parallax="off" parallax_method="on"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.11.1"]Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Blog! Winter Break is Coming! And with it comes the threat of the two scariest words to come out of my child's mouth - "I'm BORED!" And it doesn't take long - last year, I heard those words spoken within … Continue reading 5 Activities to do during Winter Break that encourages kids to do acts of kindness
5 Ideas for Acts of Kindness you Need to do while Traveling for the Holiday Season
[et_pb_section fb_built="1" _builder_version="3.11.1" custom_padding="24.3281px|0px|2px|0px|false|false"][et_pb_row _builder_version="3.11.1"][et_pb_column type="4_4" _builder_version="3.11.1" parallax="off" parallax_method="on"][et_pb_text _builder_version="3.11.1"]Hello! Welcome to our Project Stella Blog! It is the Holiday season and many families are preparing to travel. While traveling can be fun and exciting, it can also be pretty tense. It is amazing to see how Acts of Kindness can make a positive difference during … Continue reading 5 Ideas for Acts of Kindness you Need to do while Traveling for the Holiday Season
7 skills to list on your resume and how you can demonstrate them through your Volunteer Work
Hello! Welcome to the Kindness Clubhouse! There is a common problem that I am asked by high school students and college students to help with. They feel stuck and at a disadvantage when it comes to applying for jobs - either while they are in school or after graduation. Employers want to hire people with experience. … Continue reading 7 skills to list on your resume and how you can demonstrate them through your Volunteer Work
Six Steps to creating the Best Slime EVER*!
I don't know about you but the SLIME CRAZE has taken over our home. Whenever my daughter has a spare moment it is used for either looking up videos of other kids making slime or trying it out herself. And while the idea of making a mess always causes me to have some anxiety - I know there are benefits that help in her development. Here are 6 steps to creating successful slime.
The Power of Self-Paced Learning Through Project-Based Service Learning
Self-paced learning is revolutionizing education by catering to diverse student needs and fostering critical skills through project-based service learning. Courses like Teens Starting Nonprofits, Exploring Careers in the Medical Field, and Helping Animals Without a Home illustrate this model, promoting empathy, independence, and real-world problem-solving while allowing personalized learning experiences.
How to Master the Miniature Golf Project
The "Around the World in 18 Holes" project is an exciting way to combine creativity, problem-solving, and storytelling. You’ll work in small groups to design and build a miniature golf hole inspired by a story from another country. This blog post will guide you through each step, helping you bring your vision to life. Step … Continue reading How to Master the Miniature Golf Project
Unit Studies and Service Learning: A Perfect Pair
Combining unit studies with service learning projects creates an enriching educational experience fostering academic growth and community engagement. Picking unit studies aligned with children’s interests and passions, integrating multiple subjects, and adding service projects related to community needs are essential. Differentiation and varied learning activities ensure engagement and motivation for all students.
Literature & Service Learning: Homeschool Projects
Service learning projects are a wonderful way for homeschooling families to merge academic learning with real-world experience. By tailoring projects to different age groups, families can engage in meaningful activities, such as organizing book drives, establishing pen pal programs, and creating literary gardens, while developing practical skills and a deeper understanding of literature.
Top 10 Service Learning Projects for Homeschool Families
Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity to integrate service learning into your educational curriculum. Engage in projects like creating care kits for foster children, community clean-ups, and senior pen pal programs to develop empathy, environmental stewardship, and communication skills. These projects enhance homeschooling and teach the value of empathy, service, and civic responsibility.
Social Studies and Service Learning: A Perfect Homeschool Pair
Homeschooling offers a unique opportunity for families to tailor education to their children's needs, interests, and strengths. One of the most effective ways to enhance the homeschooling experience is through project-based learning, particularly service learning, which combines community service with curriculum objectives. Social studies, with its focus on history, geography, civics, and cultures, pairs perfectly with service learning to provide a well-rounded, engaging, and impactful educational experience.
Transform Your Homeschool with Project-Based Learning
Homeschooling allows personalized education. Project-Based Learning (PBL) shifts focus to student-centered, real-world projects, fostering critical thinking, collaboration, and research skills. Examples include environmental science, historical reenactment, entrepreneurship, and STEM challenges. PBL transforms education, empowering students and preparing them for the future.
Real-Life Math: Service Learning Projects for Homeschool Students
Many students struggle to see the real-life relevance of math. Service learning projects can bridge this gap by showing how math is used to solve real-world problems. By integrating math into community service activities, students gain practical skills, enhanced engagement, and a deeper appreciation for the value of numbers. These projects also foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills, ultimately empowering students to make a positive impact in their communities.
How to Plan Impactful Service Learning Projects for Your Teenage Homeschoolers
Service learning is a powerful educational approach that combines academic learning with community service. For teenage homeschoolers, it offers a unique opportunity to apply their knowledge to real-world issues, develop critical life skills, and make a positive impact on their communities. Planning impactful service learning projects requires thoughtful preparation and execution. Here’s a guide to … Continue reading How to Plan Impactful Service Learning Projects for Your Teenage Homeschoolers
Teaching 4 Impact 