Service as Action
Service as Action is a core component of the MYP that encourages students to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-life situations by addressing needs within their local and global communities. It fosters personal growth, reflection, and the development of ATL skills by engaging students in meaningful, student-initiated service experiences.
At Hillside, our aim is for Service as Action to be authentically integrated into every aspect of student life, empowering boys to connect their learning to real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to their communities. From hands-on sustainability efforts like Compost Crew and local farm partnerships to school-wide initiatives such as MLK Day of Service and Earth Day events, students develop empathy, leadership, and a sense of global responsibility. Through these experiences, and the culminating Grade 9 Community Project, Hillside students grow as principled, caring changemakers.
Grade 9 Community Project
In 9th grade, students demonstrate their commitment to service and global-mindedness through the Community Project, a self-directed experience that challenges them to investigate a need, take meaningful action, and reflect on their impact.This collaborative and reflective endeavor begins in September and concludes in February, serving as a key milestone in their Hillside journey. Rooted in the principles of the IB Middle Years Programme, the Community Project encourages students to take meaningful action, apply their skills, and make a positive impact on the world around them
MYP Community Project at Hillside
The Community Project is a capstone experience in Grade 9 that empowers students to explore their interests, investigate needs within their communities, and take informed action to make a difference. It reflects Hillside’s commitment to service learning, student agency, and real-world impact—core values of the IB Middle Years Programme.
Project Support and Structure
The project is guided by a collaborative team that includes the MYP Coordinator, Student Life Office, Farm Director, and individual advisors. Weekly advisory periods are dedicated to project development, with additional peer support from the Student IB Committee. Students use Google Classroom to manage progress, share reflections, and communicate; the school aims to pilot Toddle for future implementation.
Student and Advisor Preparation
At the start of the year, students attend an orientation introducing the project’s goals, timeline, and expectations, with examples from IB World Schools and tools to develop strong inquiry questions. Advisors receive training on project mentorship, assessment criteria, and supporting student-centered learning, with additional workshops throughout the year to ensure alignment with IB expectations.