What Service Learning Means at ASM
Service learning connects classroom learning with real community needs. It is:
- Learning rooted in action
- Action grounded in relationships
- Relationships built on respect and reciprocity
Service Learning Through the Lens of ASM Values
Service learning at ASM is not about charity. It is about learning, partnership, and meaningful impact.
Our approach to service learning reflects our core values:
- Respect – honoring the dignity, culture, and experiences of others
- Courage – taking responsible action, even when challenges are complex
- Integrity – acting ethically, transparently, and with clear purpose
- Curiosity – seeking to understand root causes, not just symptoms
- Kindness – engaging with empathy and genuine care
Core Principles of Service Learning at ASM
Global citizenship begins here.
Responsible action starts within our own school and local community.
Learning and long-term impact matter most.
We prioritize thoughtful engagement over quick solutions and emphasize sustainable, responsible involvement.
Reciprocity is essential.
Service is based on partnership and mutual learning, not one-way help.
We act with awareness and responsibility.
Students consider culture, context, and the long-term effects of their actions.
Developing Civic Responsibility
Through service learning, ASM students learn to:
- understand community issues and social responsibility
- develop empathy and ethical awareness
- collaborate respectfully with people from diverse backgrounds
- see themselves as active contributors to a more just and sustainable world
Service learning helps students build a lifelong commitment to positive civic engagement.
Service Hour Requirements
Students are expected to fulfill their 25 hours of service requirement each year in grades 9 and 10, with genuine commitment. At least 10 of the required hours must be completed outside of ASM, in the broader community. This ensures that students develop real relationships and engagement beyond the school walls.
Service hours are tracked and verified by the Upper School Counselor. All hours must be documented and submitted according to the established process. Self-reported hours without verification from a responsible adult or organization contact will not be accepted.
Our Approach to Fundraising
Authentic service learning is built on relationships and learning, not on distant or anonymous donations.
- ASM does not encourage one-time fundraising for organizations without established connections.
- We avoid collecting money without a clear understanding of its final use and impact.
- We prioritize direct engagement, education, and long-term partnerships.
- Fundraising should support meaningful learning and authentic relationships, not replace them.
- All service learning and fundraising activities must follow ASM’s established procedures for student activity funds and be approved by the Principal and Director in advance.
Dedicated Partnerships
ASM focuses its major service and fundraising efforts on trusted, long-term partners, including:
- Fondazione Rava (NPH)
- WeCare ETS
- Progetto ARCA
- Associazione Il Gabbiano (Noi Come gli Altri)
- Legambiente (Clean up the World Day)
- Banco Alimentare
- No Walls
- Soleterre
- UNICEF
- Anni Azzurri
These partnerships ensure transparency, sustained student involvement, and responsible, measurable impact. Student groups wishing to raise funds are strongly encouraged to align their efforts with these established partnerships.
What Quality Service Learning Looks Like at ASM
Effective service learning at ASM includes:
- projects connected to classroom learning
- collaboration with local community partners
- clear preparation and orientation
- structured reflection
- sustained involvement rather than one-time events
- evaluation of learning and impact
Examples include local community projects in Milan, environmental and sustainability initiatives, peer mentoring and tutoring, and curriculum-based community engagement.
The strongest experiences are those rooted in real relationships and authentic learning.
A Mindful Approach to Service
Less this:
- “I want to help those less fortunate.”
- “This will look good on my college application.”
More this:
- “I want to help build the kind of world I want to live in.”
- “I have much to learn from others.”
- “I am part of a community and have a responsibility to it.”
- “My actions should be thoughtful, informed, and respectful.”
Our Commitment
Service learning at ASM develops informed, compassionate, and responsible global citizens. By connecting learning with meaningful action, students learn to live our values and to make a positive, lasting impact on the world.