SSL INFORMATION

The State of Maryland recognizes that well-educated citizens must understand their responsibilities as part of the community. As such, The State of Maryland recognizes that well-educated citizens must understand their responsibilities as part of the community. As such, Student Service Learning (SSL) is a Maryland State Department of Education graduation requirement. MCPS high school students in Classes 2008*, 2009*, and 2010* are required to complete, prior to graduation, 60 SSL hours. Starting with the Class of 2011, 75 SSL hours will be required.

* For students enrolled in MCPS for the first time in Grade 7 and above, the SSL hour requirement for graduation will be prorated according to the following schedule: 65 SSL hours for students entering MCPS in Grade 7; 55 SSL hours for students entering MCPS in Grade 8; 45 SSL hours for students entering MCPS in Grade 9; 35 SSL hours for those entering MCPS in Grade 10; 20 SSL hours for those entering MCPS in Grade 11; and 10 SSL hours for those entering MCPS in Grade 12.

Students may begin work on the SSL requirement in the summer after Grade 5. Students who accrue 260 SSL hours or more earn a Certificate of Meritorious Service from MCPS and MSDE at the time of graduation.

Student Service Learning is an unpaid activity that provides service to an individual or group to address a school or community need. The activity must be developmentally appropriate and meaningful to the student.

Further information about the program, as well as the SSL forms, is available at the MCPS SSL website, http://www.mcpsssl.org/.

SSL Parent Liaison - Fern Shepard at fern [dot] shepardgmail [dot] com