STARR STUDENTS&

StudentsTeachingAndReceivingRewards

What is a Starr Student-  A GVSU student who volunteers time at the childrens center. Volunteers will learn redirection methods, ways to be proactive vs. reactive to typical toddler behavior, and shadow education practitioners in a literacy rich program. 

How the program works- Students (not limited to psy or educ for example) will commit to a semester long project that requires that he/she volunteer a minimum of two hours a week at the Childrens Enrichment Center.  This professional opportunity will provide students with hands on and laboratory experience in an NAEYC accredited learning center for children ages 2 ½ - 12 (limited options for 2.5 year olds).

Once professors agree to be a part of the program they will be encouraged to solicit student participation and/ or offer incentives.  This project could replace a term paper, or supplement a journal and observation project for example.

Upon completion of the semester, students will receive formal thanks that summarize total number of hours completed and highlight areas of success. 

Rationale- While the Childrens  Enrichment Center maintains licensing ratios, it is always beneficial to have extra eyes and ears to tend to the many demands of the young children served.  Secondly, GVSU students will benefit by taking an active role in a service learning project that calls for active participation.  Lastly, it provides yet another opportunity for departments to establish collaborative efforts with the Childrens Enrichment Center. Please contact Sharalle Arnold, at 331-5437 for more information.