In 2006, Chassell Schools partnered with the Michigan Community Service Commission to begin a 6-year journey to become a service-learning school. Developing a service-learning program has involved federal grant funding through Learn and Serve America, as the district has worked with leaders in Lansing. The goal? To create a learning environment where students actively apply their classroom knowledge to meet needs in their school and community.

Service learning is a teaching model that connects classroom instruction with meaningful service outside of the classroom. The purpose of service learning is not community service, but rather helping students see how their knowledge in school can be used to help others. Teachers share instruction with students and then create a context for using that information in the real world. Through service learning, students have hands-on opportunities to apply their knowledge.

Since 2006, Chassell students in all grade levels have been involved in more than 80 service-learning projects. During the 2009-10 school year alone, students spent over 11,225 hours in service-learning activities—from the time spent in the classroom getting ready, to time serving others, to time reflecting on what they had learned.

Through service learning, the district hopes to achieve its goal of "Learning for Life," as students become learners who value civic engagement and work to improve their community with the knowledge they are given.

Currently, Chassell has a service learning class for the 7th grade, which is taught by Mrs. Tervo and a service projects class for high school students that is taught by Mr. Ware. If you ever have an idea for a project please contact either teacher.