Service Learning

Service is a defining tradition of Sacred Heart Greenwich and an essential expression of our mission to educate students to be compassionate, socially aware, and committed to making a difference in others' lives. Rooted in the Goals and Criteria of Sacred Heart Education—particularly Goal III, educating to a social awareness that impels to action—service learning invites students to recognize the dignity of every person and respond with empathy, reflection, and purpose.

Beginning in the earliest years and continuing through Upper School, students engage in meaningful service experiences that connect classroom learning with the needs of the world around them. Through direct engagement, reflection, and action, students develop a deeper understanding of social justice, strengthen their sense of responsibility to others, and discover the many ways they can contribute to their communities.

Throughout the year, students, families, faculty, and staff come together through schoolwide initiatives such as Midnight Run, which brings the Sacred Heart community together to prepare and distribute meals, clothing, toiletries, and essential supplies to individuals experiencing homelessness in New York City. Experiences like Midnight Run reflect our belief that meaningful change begins with compassion, connection, and a willingness to serve.

Guided by the practice of Pause • Reflect • Discern • Decide • Act, students are encouraged to thoughtfully consider the needs of others, reflect on their experiences, and respond in ways that promote justice, compassion, and care for all people and creation.

Service Learning Across Divisions

Lower School

In the Lower School, students begin to understand the importance of kindness, compassion, and responsibility to others. Through classroom experiences, community partnerships, service projects, and traditions such as Prayer Buddies, students learn that even small acts of care can make a meaningful difference.

Service is connected to classroom learning and the Goals and Criteria, helping students develop empathy, recognize others' needs, and understand their role as members of a larger community.

Middle School

In the Middle School, students deepen their understanding of service by exploring issues of justice, community needs, and their responsibility to others. Through grade-level service experiences, classroom connections, clubs, and community partnerships, students move from awareness to action.

Reflection is an important part of the Middle School service experience, encouraging students to consider the impact of their actions and how they can use their voices and talents to support those in need.

Upper School

In the Upper School, service learning challenges students to engage more deeply with issues of social justice and put their values into action. Rooted in Goal III—educating to a social awareness that impels to action—students participate in meaningful service experiences that combine direct engagement, reflection, and advocacy.

Through the Duchesne Service Path, students complete annual service commitments while exploring their personal connection to service and justice. Students complete 15 hours of service each year, including direct service with communities in need, and reflect on how their experiences shape their understanding of compassion, responsibility, and leadership.

Students who demonstrate a sustained commitment to service may participate in the Sr. Sheehan Service Honor Society. Beginning in ninth grade, members engage in ongoing service, reflective writing, and deeper exploration of Catholic Social Teaching and the Sacred Heart mission. Students who successfully complete the program are inducted into the honor society and recognized at graduation.