Community Service
Community Service
💡 Did You Know?
While community service hours are not required for graduation, they are a valuable addition to college applications and are often required for scholarships—including the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program.
✅ How to Get Started with Community Service
Step 1: Choose an Organization
Find a place where you can volunteer and make sure the activity is approved by OCPS.
🔗 Suggested Opportunities / Activities That Do Not Count
Step 2: Track Your Hours
Begin volunteering! Use the Community Service Form to log your hours and collect signatures from your site supervisor.
Step 3: Reflect and Submit
After completing your hours, write a short reflection about your experience. Submit your signed log and reflection to your school counselor by the end of each school year.
📌 Important Reminders
- Keep copies of all your forms for your records.
- Paid work can count toward Bright Futures but must include pay stubs and use the same form.
- Teachers, club sponsors, and coaches cannot submit forms on your behalf.
- NHS Applicants (Juniors & Seniors) must complete at least 20 hours of community service in high school. Paid work does not count for NHS.
🎓 Bright Futures Scholarship Info
- Students may qualify using community service, paid work, or a combination of both.
- Requirements may change—check the Bright Futures Handbook for the latest updates.
- Visit the Office of Student Financial Assistance
📞 888-827-2004 | 📧 OSFA@fldoe.org
📝 Graduation Checklist
All seniors must complete:
- The Florida Financial Aid Application (FFAA)
- The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
Need help? Visit the College & Career Room (8106A) or attend one of our Student Services application sessions throughout the year.