Beginning with the Class of 2011 (this year’s eighth graders), Montgomery County Public Schools students will be required to complete 75 student service-learning (SSL) hours in order to graduate. Students in the Class of 2007 through the Class of 2010 will have to meet the current requirement of 60 hours.

The number is being increased to match the majority of Maryland counties, which require 75 hours for graduation. All other aspects of the SSL program remain the same.

Students can begin accruing SSL hours the summer after completing fifth grade. Hours can be accumulated by volunteering with a nonprofit, tax-exempt community group; taking specific middle or high school courses; or participating in school-sponsored clubs and organizations.

Contact the school-based SSL coordinator or school counselor with questions. More information is also available at the link below.