Service Learning

Lower School students engage in age-appropriate learning and service opportunities throughout the year. With a focus on people, animals and the environment, each project selected benefits a sector of the greater community with which our students identify. Gift drives supporting One Simple Wish, a mitten, hat and scarf collection benefitting The Children’s Home Society of New Jersey and biscuit baking for the dogs of SAVE - A Friend to Homeless Animals are just a few of the ways that Service Learning is introduced to our youngest Panthers. Reflection and discussion are an important final step as students learn to speak about and share information with their peers surrounding the organizations they work to support. 

The Middle School is where students begin to emerge as advocates and agents of change. Beginning with investigation and ending with deep reflection, students are empowered to explore, question and listen to the many community partners who visit PDS. As students start to identify the issues that they feel passionate about, they work with faculty to prepare, plan and take action. Organizing a much-needed diaper drive for HomeFront, designing and crafting bookmarks with healthy eating facts for New Jersey WIC Services or raising money for breast cancer research are only some of the ways in which our Middle School students learn about and serve their communities. Sharing their experience with others leads to a deeper understanding of the importance of education and advocacy amongst their peers.