Service Learning

We are committed to service learning as a way to incorporate civic responsibility through service into the curriculum. From the beginning days at SJND, students have opportunities to volunteer in the community--at a food bank, at a retirement home, or wherever their spiritual journey and civic commitment takes them.

For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.’ Then the righteous will answer him, ‘Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink?​ ​And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing?​ ​And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?’​ ​And the king will answer them, ‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me (Matt. 25:35-40).

Servant Leadership and Faith-Based Social Justice

Servant leadership and faith-based social justice are collaborative enterprises at SJND. The charism (or a God-given spiritual gift for the benefit of the common good) of the Holy Family of Nazareth that animates our school calls us to Christ’s love in pursuit of justice and generous service for a suffering world.

We draw upon this charism, upon the spiritual wisdom of our founding orders, upon the traditions of the Catholic church, and upon the person, life, and teachings of Jesus of Nazareth to inform and inspire our work for mercy, justice, and peace.

Our Service Learning expectations are:

  • To enhance students' learning by enabling them to practice skills and test classroom knowledge through related service experiences in the local community

  • Support foundation efforts and collaboration that enhance the community partnerships we serve

  • To formatively learn about and acquire the tools through which to challenge and change the inequitable systems and structures of society

  • Encourage students to actively seek service opportunities outside of those completed as course projects

  • Challenge students to embrace a lifelong commitment to service