PCS adjusted Community Service expectations, beginning in the 2019-2020 school year, in response to COVID-19 public health guidelines. Though the state of the pandemic has changed, we are maintaining this updated policy until further notice.

What is the PCS Community Service expectation?

Middle School (7th and 8th) students must complete at least 10 hours of community service per year.

High School (9th - 12th) students must complete at least 20 hours per year.

How can I complete my service hours this year?

We understand that these are extraordinary times, and that opportunities for teens to complete community service hours through non-profit agencies or even in person within Santa Cruz County are currently limited. PCS has waived the requirement that service hours be completed with a non-profit agency, however all organizations must be approved by the Volunteer Coordinator.

To complete 2022-2023 PCS Community Service hours, here are some suggestions:

• Sign up to volunteer at a local non-profit or community organization, either on-site or remotely.
• Participate in a variety of PCS activities and leadership opportunities that will be offered to fulfill community service hours.
• Provide assistance or service to a family or community member in need (e.g. yard work, errands, childcare, etc.)
• Correspond with someone who is shut-in, isolated or incarcerated during the pandemic.
• Send letters, emails, or text messages to government officials or representatives to advocate for causes or changes they support.
• Become a tutor, or teach music/art lessons.
• Design their own service opportunity. We can help!

There is also an annual Community Service Fair that takes place on campus in early autumn, as well as a bulletin board outside of the study hall with a long list of ongoing volunteer opportunities. If you’d like to add something to the bulletin board, just let Mr. G know.

How do I certify that I have completed my service hours?

Parents/guardians will confirm the completion of Community Service by signing each student’s service log. Email completed service logs to Mr. G or drop them off in Study Hall.

When are my community service hours due?

Grades 7-11: Community Service hours are due on May 1, 2022. Contact Mr. G if you need an extension.

Grade 12: Community Service hours are due by May 1, 2022. Excess hours from previous years will be applied to this year. Contact Mr. G to work out a plan for completing required hours prior to the May 1st deadline.

How do I organize a community service project for a group?

Community Service opportunities for groups of students require administrative approval prior to posting or announcing. Once the activity has been approved, the community service opportunity can be promoted among the student body/groups of students. Please contact Mr. G for further assistance.