Latest News
Students from Academy of Our Lady high school provided over 2,500 hours of community service to the greater New Orleans area as part of the school’s service week from January 24 through January 27, 2012. The 2012 theme was AOL Builds Peace. The purpose of the event which is in its fourth year is to promote solidarity between the students and the community in which they live.
“This is the week we live our mission statement to the fullest,” explains Sr. Michelle Geiger the school’s principal. “It is not enough to talk about “the values to live as Catholic Christians” and the “skills to succeed as responsible citizens in society.” We must live it. We must give them exposure to different issues and hands on experience.”
Students by grade level went out for one full day of service during the week. The remaining days on campus were spent attending classes designed to reflect the week’s theme and participating in seminars presented by guest speakers.
“Teachers have gone the extra mile preparing lesson plans that will help students think outside the box and concretely link class subjects to life experiences,” says Sr. Michelle.
For example in Math classes students calculated, graphed, and analyzed crime statistics and then participated in a classroom discussion on ways to lessen crime in high concentration areas.
Service sites for the week include: St. Luke’s Medical Center, Arc of Greater New Orleans, Magnolia School, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, City Park, Trinity Christian Center, Wynhoven Healthcare Center, and P.A.W.S. (Plaquemines Animal Welfare Society). Seminar topics include: anti-bullying, internet safety, fair trade, mission trips, immigration, and world religions.
Check back for more pictures!
