SERVE Program

The SERVE (Service Experiences for ReVitalizing Education) Program creates an opportunity for students at the undergraduate level, in particular for those who are considering careers in K-12 education, to learn about the realities of urban classrooms and the needs of the diverse K-12 student population. SERVE students work with students individually and in small groups to provide academic support and encourage personal growth. It is through this involvement that CSULB students assess their careers goals and provide direct service to students and teachers in grades K-12 and their communities.

SERVE is a graduation requirement for students earning a bachelors degree in Liberal Studies. To earn a Liberal Studies bachelors degree, students must complete two SERVE rotations (one through EDEL 200 and one through EDEL 300) for a total of 85 SERVE hours.

All students requesting SERVE placement must be enrolled in the university for the entire semester of their SERVE assignment.

 

  1. University students will work with K-12 students in urban classrooms or community settings.  As a result, university students will increase their knowledge of the cultural and social backgrounds of a diverse population.
  2. University students will serve as role models and provide literacy support for students in grades K-12.
  3. University students will have opportunities to assess the teaching profession as a career option.
  4. University students will be able to articulate their values related to citizenship, community service, opportunity, equality and inclusion.

  • Step 1: Visit program information! This page will inform you of what SERVE's all about! 
  • Step 2: Visit SERVE clearance information! This page will help you learn how to obtain a Certificate of Clearance if you don't already have one. If you would like to complete your SERVE rotation in LBUSD, there is additional clearance steps that need to be taken.
  • Step 3: Upload your CTC Clearance and TB Test to MyCED and receive approval.
  • Step 4: After you've complete Step 1, 2 & 3, you are now ready to find a SERVE placement.  Check the list of Approved Fieldwork Sites and you may contact any school within an approved district to ask about doing fieldwork in their school. Students that would like assistance in securing a SERVE placement may request a placement using the SERVE Placement Request form. 
  • Step 5: Once you have secured a placement site, either through a self placement, through LBUSD or through the SERVE Placement Request, you will need to enter your placement into MyCED. 
  • Step 6: As you complete your SERVE hours, be sure to log them into MyCED.
  • Step 7:  Once you have completed all of your required SERVE hours, you will need to send your demonstration teacher a final evaluation link.

 

  • Keep a consistent schedule in the field and notify the classroom teacher in advance in case of absence
  • Dress according to the dress code of the placement site
  • Learn the names of K-12 students in the class
  • Adhere to the teacher’s classroom management and routines
  • Follow instructions on course syllabi for structured assignments
  • Complete a minimum of 40 or 45 hours in the field in one semester/session per course.
  • Submit all course assignments related to SERVE to the professor
  • Contact the TPAC office with any concerns or questions.

WHAT SERVE STUDENTS MAY DO

  • Assist with small groups of K-12 students
  • Assist individual K-12 students
  • Assist with cooperative learning activities in reading, writing and math
  • Listen to K-12 students read aloud
  • Read aloud to K-12 students
  • Ask questions and lead discussions
  • Review lessons
  • Clarify instruction
  • Monitor K-12 students and encourage behavior to stay on task
  • Help K-12 students with their writing (i.e.: editing, revising, etc.)
  • Assist with tutoring
  • Notify the classroom teacher of K-12 students’ needs and concerns
  • Assist K-12 students with organization and study skills
  • Assist with skill development and practice of skills
  • Monitor and assist K-12 students with an assignment while the classroom teacher works with a small group

Questions?

Please contact the Teacher Preparation Advising Center at ced-tpac@csulb.edu or 562/985-1105