Service Learning
Service tasks with structured opportunities link to our core values.
We are committed to caring.
Students are asked to recognize and respond to needs, sacrifice and share, then reflect about their experiences helping others.
Fall
Arlington Street People"s Assistance (A-SPAN) The annual ATS Mini-walk benefits the Arlington Street People"s Assistance Network works with and on behalf of homeless people to secure the support and services necessary for them to lead self-sufficient and healthy lives. By working with local government, business, religious and charitable institutions, A-SPAN helps homeless people in Arlington access needed services. A-SPAN’s programs include Opportunity Place, a street outreach program that includes case management and employment assistance; Winter Shelter Program, which houses homeless men and women between November 1 and April 15; and Homeless Bagged Meal Program, which provides hot meals to 50-60 people nightly. 703-820-4357 Phone; 703-820-4405 Fax
Winter
Residential Program Center (RPC) Homeless Shelter
RPC has a 44 bed homeless shelter, 12 bed short-term section and a 12 bed long term substance abuse recovery section. It is operated by Volunteers of America Chesapeake on contract with Arlington County. The RPC has been located across from the Sheraton Hotel where Washington Boulevard crosses Columbia Pike since 1994, and serves approximately 700 men and women annually. The RPC provides a wide range of services to help clients address their most critical problems and begin their return to independent living. Major problems include sickness, substance abuse and the high cost of housing in Northern Virginia. The RPC is required to raise a percentage of the operating budget from the community; no public funds can be used for toiletries and towels/wash cloths. They receive significant support (financial donations, in-kind donations, and/or volunteer assistance) from Arlington churches and concerned citizens. They need “family size” toiletry items for men and women (tooth brushes, tooth paste, combs, shampoo, soap, shaving equipment, women"s toiletries, etc.).
Spring
Other Programs
ATS represented the state of Virginia, one of 50 schools from across the nation chosen for Operation Caring Classroom, to show support for the children of military families. The Armed Forces Foundation sponsored the initiative. Students throughout our school participated in activities such as writing letters to children of military families and veterans, working cross word puzzles and creating art projects. In addition, the teachers were provided rulers, magnets, flags, posters, and books to share with students. Our school counselors received pamphlets on how to work with and support children of military families, active duty and reserve. In keeping with the Foundation’s tradition of supporting the morale, welfare, and the quality of life of the U.S. armed forces community, the foundation believes that children of military families deserve just as much recognition and support as their active duty parent/s. Located on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., the Armed Forces Foundation came into existence in 2001 and has been recognized by President Bush for their dedication and support for the military community, especially their families.
Collecting Toys for foster Children. Planting Bulbs for Preschoolers to enjoy in Spring!
Fourth Graders enjoyed Baking Cookies for the Troops in Afghanistan
