Notre Dame High School, San Jose, students raising a roof in Tijuana.

Reflection takes the "feel good" of doing service to another level. Students explore their feelings in personal journals and classroom discussions both before and after their service projects.  They are challenged to see themselves and the people they help in a new light, and with Christ-like compassion.  Young people see that they can make a difference and create positive change in their communities.

Used in conjunction with a project, the reflection - action - reflection process provides learning and growth that otherwise would be stunted.  Robert Linthicum in "Building a People of Power" writes, "Action and reflection feed upon each other, with each action leading to a deeper and more insightful reflection that, in turn, leads to a more courageous action. Thus a spiral of learning is created."

Helping the earth.

Turning to the environment, Notre Dame High School, Belmont, students recently completed a tidal wetland restoration project.  After growing the seedlings themselves at the school greenhouse, the students later enjoyed a day of transplanting the tender shoots and learning how their work will help Bair Island support a variety of wildlife.

Whatever community projects Notre Dame students undertake, we know that they are learning for life...just as St. Julie Billiart envisioned.

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