The Service-Learning Program of Montclair State University’s Center for Career Services and Community-based Learning was recently recognized by Montclair Township and the Montclair Board of Education (MBOE) for its ten-year partnership with the Montclair Public Schools STARS after-school program.

The MBOE passed a resolution which read in part, “…the Montclair Board of Education expresses sincere gratitude to Montclair State University and the Center for Community-based Learning, and our community partners for their service and support of the public schools and students."

For the past decade, the STARS program has provided a high quality after school educational enrichment program for elementary school children in Montclair. Its goal has been to improve the academic performance of low-performing students in grades 1-5 through math and literacy tutoring, mentoring and homework support. Since the start of the program, over 1,000 Montclair State service-learning students have been tutors to the children of Montclair Township.

Service-learning is a form of experiential education that links academic study to real world experiences. It is a credit-bearing program that enhances academic learning, builds maturity and insight, and prepares students for active citizenship and lifelong learning. In addition, it fosters civic responsibility by focusing on critical, reflective thinking and an appreciation of larger social issues inherent in a democracy.

More information about Service-Learning is available here.