The Old Ways Just Don't Work Anymore

In an effort to understand what programs are currently in place to reduce the student dropout rate at Steinmetz Academic Centre High School, I felt it was necessary to contact the school directly. In a conversation with Ms. B. Eshoo (library), she stated that Steinmetz has a Service Learning Program, mandated by the Board of Education, and that all Chicago Public Schools (CPS's) must meet this program requirement as a student graduation requirement.

In order for students to comply with the requirements of the Service Learning Program, they must complete 10 hours per year, (total 40 hours at graduation), with a not-for-profit organization as a community volunteer, e.g., animal shelter, food drive for pet shelters, homeless shelters, soup kitchens, etc. Each student must complete a consent form which they sign as well as a parent or guardian signature. All students are required to produce a reflection summary about how (or if) the volunteer project changed their outlook toward people, service to others, or the importance of community service. Students keep a time sheet on their day's activities which is attested to by a supervisor's signature.

Ms. Eshoo also confirmed that Steinmetz does offer students an after school, or night school educational program, but that it is only intended to remediate a previously failed course. The program is in session Monday through Thursday from 3:00 to 5:30 pm.

As I appreciate the programs and effort that Steinmetz is trying to do to meet the educational needs of their student population, I believe that there is more that can be done to expand students interest and, in so doing, encourages them to continue their high school education at Steinmetz. As I stated earlier, students are looking for real-world applications which, for example, can also come from work study and internship programs. Also, Steinmetz' night school program does not seem to include students that just can't function in the high schools mainstream.

As a final thought to Steinmetz' service learning program it seems to me that an expansion to the program could achieve the goals and desired outcomes, as stated in the article from Engaged for Success, "the skills the students develop, the habits they form, and the communities they build will determine the future of the nation and hold the keys to its progress".

Footnote: The photo is of Steinmetz alumni.