The Purple Martin Blog
Beyond Classrooms:
The Episcopal Fabric of Service Learning at ESN
By Dr. James Jordan
Dr. Jordan is the Head of School at ESN.
As an educator and a proud member of the Episcopal School of Nashville community, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the transformational power of community service and service learning. Here, the Episcopal values aren’t just words; they come alive in our actions, our teachings, and most profoundly, in our commitment to community service and service learning. In this post, I wish to unveil how these principles, deeply anchored in our Episcopal Identity, not only direct our academic pursuits but also mold the very essence of our young scholars.
What is Service Learning?
Beyond mere volunteering, service learning stands as a testament to the Episcopalian belief in holistic development. It’s a unique blend of classroom instruction and hands-on community involvement, designed to provide students with real-world experiences that complement their academic learning. As they step beyond the classroom and touch real lives, they don’t merely apply theoretical lessons but immerse in genuine experiences that enrich their souls and intellect.
Why is Service Learning Important?
Cultivating Compassion: Direct interactions with various community members enable our students to not just perceive but feel the stories and challenges of others. The Episcopal lens of compassion then guides them to convert this understanding into action.
Nurturing Leadership: The Episcopalian ethos stresses leadership that is grounded in service. Our service projects channel this ethos, encouraging students to take initiative, make decisions, and most importantly, serve with humility and empathy.
Preparing for the Real World: The real world is complex, requiring more than just academic knowledge. Through service learning, our students gain invaluable life skills – from collaboration and problem-solving to communication and adaptability.
How is Service Learning Integrated into the Curriculum at ESN?
At Episcopal School of Nashville, we’ve intricately woven service learning into our curriculum. It’s not an “add-on” but rather a core component, enabling students to see the real-world applications of what they study. Our commitment is to provide an education that goes beyond textbooks. By integrating service learning, we aim to develop well-rounded, compassionate, and proactive individuals ready to make meaningful contributions to society. Dr. Deatrice Swett, our principal, highlights the importance of service to our school’s vision: “At ESN, we promote learning through active participation in service experiences for our PreK-8th grade students. We believe that service fosters a sense of caring for others and growing young servant leaders. Service also gives students an opportunity to use skills and knowledge in real-life situations. When our students participate in service learning they are responsibly engaging with the place, community, and world they call home.”
Highlighting Some of ESN’s Upcoming Service and Community-Oriented Projects:
Walk/Bike to School Day (October): This initiative is not just about physical health or reducing carbon footprints, though both are important. It’s about instilling in our students a sense of responsibility for their environment and their community, fostering an awareness that their choices have consequences.
Rescue Mission (November): Participating in the Rescue Mission teaches our students about compassion and the importance of helping those less fortunate. It’s a humbling experience that underscores the blessings they have and the difference they can make.
There with Care (December): The festive season is a time for joy, but also reflection. By supporting initiatives like ‘There with Care’, our students learn the value of kindness and the joy of giving, reminding them of the true spirit of the season.
Other planned activities and projects that we have done before or plan to do in the future: Blessing Bags, (Thanksgiving TIme), Somebody Loves you Cards, (February), Earth Day-Neighborhood Beautification, Lipstick Lounge: Food Pantry, Stock the Box, Ms. Cheap Penny Drive, Second Harvest Food Bank and more!