Vol. 41, No. 34

April 25 , 2007

CONTACT:  JIM MORRIS
Director, Public Information
573-751-3469

Missouri Students Honored for Outstanding Community Service
"Inspire-by-Example" Awards Presented in Jefferson City

Public school students who provide exemplary service in their communities will be recognized in a ceremony today (April 25) at the Truman Building in Jefferson City. More than 500 students, parents, teachers and legislators are expected for the 14th annual Missouri Service Day celebration.

The event recognizes the achievements of individuals and groups of students in elementary, middle and high schools who provide outstanding service to their communities through service-learning activities. This year’s Inspire by Example Student Service-Learning Award recipients are:


To be eligible for the award, a student or group of students must be nominated by a teacher or coordinator at their school. The school must take part in the Learn and Serve America Program or a school-based service-learning program. The community service programs are coordinated by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

"Service-learning" allows students to combine meaningful volunteer service in the community with classroom studies in a way that improves learning and strengthens the community. Students of all ages develop responsibility and citizenship while increasing academic achievement.

"Any age can be an inspiration to others, and this is our chance to look up to some shining stars in our state," said Alicia Riner, supervisor of the Missouri Service-Learning Program.

"These students are excellent examples for the rest of the world that they are on the right path. The path is one that shows others that you understand the importance of compassion, empathy, hard work, dedication and service," she said.