Washington University Freshmen Strike Up a Colorful Friendship with St. Louis Public Schools

St. Louis ¨C For the ninth year, entering Washington University students will spend part of their Labor Day weekend sprucing up St. Louis Public Schools. The day-long community service event, Service First, takes place this Saturday, September 1.

Nearly 900 students will volunteer at ten St. Louis Public schools, where they will complete creative projects requested by the principals and their staffs. Projects will include painting indoor and outdoor murals, painting activities and maps on playgrounds, creating bulletin boards, and preparing classrooms. The goal is to make the school buildings more inviting for SLPS students and faculty.

¡°The university students participating in this effort serve as role models for district students at all grade levels,¡± said SLPS Superintendent Diana Bourisaw. ¡°We find that students who perform community service develop a greater sense of community and citizenship. The experience also enhances each student¡¯s academic growth. We are pleased that Service First continues to support St. Louis Public Schools.¡±

Participating schools include: Baden, Carr Lane, Herzog, Long, Mann, Mullanphy, Oak Hill, Shaw, Stowe and Wallbridge.

Volunteers will arrive at the schools between 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. They will depart between 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.

Service First is funded by Washington University and numerous generous donors, including the Women¡¯s Society of WU and local and national businesses.