But, at William McDonald School, students are engaging in activities that meet that criteria.

Through the service learning program at the school, students are co-ordinating fundraising programs, planning events and reaching out to lonely seniors at Aven Manor.

"You don't realize how many new skills you actually have doing this project, or how you develop the skills you already have," said Grade 8 student Michael McCormick.

His group engaged in a fundraising campaign that helped to raise money for new microscopes in the science lab.

Managed like a business endeavour, the project worked out deals with local suppliers to sell pizza, which raised the needed funds.

Josh Brown was one of the students who helped organize the installation of playground equipment that was shared between William McDonald and Allain St. Cyr schools.

Unfortunately due to insurance issues, the group was unable to see the project through to fruition by actually helping to set it up.

Instead, they were given the opportunity to develop another project. Brown and his colleagues organized the school's leadership retreat, which was proclaimed a success by students and teachers.

Through the service learning program the school also raised the most money they ever have for the UNICEF program.

Christine Ollerhead was one of the students involved in the project.

Her group developed a campaign informing other students what initiative UNICEF engages in.

"We felt it was important before we asked them for money," she said.

Ollerhead said her group used daily prize incentives to encourage donations. When the campaign was completed they sifted through 15,000 pennies along with other donations and raised $1,460.

The final project may not have brought a financial reward, but it did provide students with reward of character, while brightening another's day. The service project with Aven Manor has students visiting with local seniors.

"During the project they think about what kind of impact they want to have in their lifetime,' said teacher Audrey McDougal. "The project encourages them to work together, promotes solidarity and at the same time does a little hand holding and gives a little of yourself."

Student Steven Tsetta saw the program as very valuable.

"It's a good way to learn about others and other cultures," he said.

"It makes the elders feel happy because some elders feel lonely."