December 8, 1999

TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSED:

SUBJECT: National Service-Learning Leader Schools Application

The Texas Education Agency  invites Texas high schools and middle schools with exemplary service-learning programs to submit applications for the National Service-Learning Leader Schools recognition program.  This competitive program, sponsored by the Department of Service-Learning of the Corporation for National Service, will recognize up to 100 middle schools and 100 high schools across the nation for the 1999-2000 school year. 

Texas hopes to nominate up to six high school and middle school campuses that have demonstrated excellence in service-learning implementation through the promotion of civic responsibility, the improvement of student performance, and the strengthening of communities.  Schools selected will receive a banner, a letter from the President, and an invitation to attend educational workshops and a recognition event in Washington, D.C., in the summer of 2000.  Participating campuses also agree to make a two-year commitment to assist other schools in service-learning implementation.

To be considered for recognition as a National Service-Learning Leader School, campuses must submit an on-line notification of intent by January 7, 2000 (see website below).  Three copies of the portfolio application are due by 5:00 p.m. January 28, 2000, at the following address:

Texas Center for Service-Learning
Charles A. Dana Center
The University of Texas at Austin
2613 Speedway, NSA 1.202
Austin, TX  78712
ATTN:  Leader Schools

Applications will be reviewed by a state-level panel.  Selected schools’ applications will be submitted as Texas Leader Schools nominees to the Corporation for National Service by February 11, 2000.  The national winners will be announced in May.

To learn more about the Service-Learning Leader Schools initiative or to apply, please visit the website at www.txserve.org/servlrn.html.  If you are unable to access the website, you may e-mail the Texas Center for Service-Learning at ande@mail.utexas.edu or call 512-232-2290, or you may e-mail the Texas Education Agency at escsupport@tea.state.tx.us or call 512-463-9371.  Please provide your name, school address, e-mail address, phone, and fax information.

Sincerely,
Virgil (Ed) Flathouse
Associate Commissioner for Finance and Operations

For further information on this topic, contact TEA at 512-463-9371.

Back to TEA Correspondence Homepage