Mandatory Community Service

I don't think schools should require students to complete a specified amount of community service in order to graduate. My understanding of required service is community outreach that is attained outside of the regular school hours on a student's individual basis. Service is most definitely beneficial in preparing students to become productive members of society, however, I feel forced community service is missing the point. If we make our kids help others it won't be …

…service is beneficial to our kids; they should do it. But I feel if this service is incorporated into their normal curriculum as a sort of hands-on learning experience they will still be able to experience the value of community participation without feeling forced. Instead of community service being another hurdle to overcome before graduation, it will be fun. In my opinion, schools should adopt a service-learning program nationwide because in service learning everyone wins.