Problem Background
In our time, when society is constantly evolving and changing, education becomes increasingly essential for achieving success in life. A diploma is a critical component of education, confirming that a student has completed a school program. Certain schools require students to perform community service as a condition for earning their diplomas. High school students should be required to perform community service to receive their diplomas, and in this essay, I will explain why.
Benefits of Participating in Community Services
Social Skills and Community Enhancement
Firstly, performing community service helps students develop social skills. When students work in a team, they learn to collaborate and respect the opinions of others. They also know how to solve problems and find compromises. These skills will be necessary for their future careers and personal lives.
Secondly, performing community service enables students to contribute to their community. When students participate in charity events or volunteer at government institutions, they help people and contribute to the improvement of their cities. This gives students a sense of satisfaction and pride in their achievements, which can serve as motivation for further accomplishments in life (Rawitt 110).
Counterargument and Rebuttal
However, there is a counterargument to this proposal. Some may believe that performing community service should not be mandatory for obtaining a diploma. They may argue that it should be up to the students to decide whether to participate. However, if community service is not mandatory, most students will not do it. And those who perform the service may gain an unfair advantage over those who do not.
Requirements to Service and Benefits for Schools
Graduation should be contingent upon high school students fulfilling community service obligations. This helps develop social skills, contribute to society, and enable students to experience satisfaction and pride in their achievements. Of course, it is essential that these services are reasonable and do not consume excessive time for students, but this is the right decision for both the school and the students (Rawitt 100).
Additionally, performing community service can have a positive impact on the school itself. Students participating in charitable events or assisting in government institutions can improve the school’s reputation and attract new students. It can also help secure grants and additional funding.
Counterargument and Rebuttal
However, there is a counterargument to my position. Some argue that students already have enough responsibilities, and additional obligations, such as community service, may lead to overload. They may also believe that the school should focus on educating students and not impose additional commitments on them. Nevertheless, the counterarguments are not convincing. Students have the time and resources to participate in community service during the school year, which can be a valuable experience for them.
Additionally, by performing community service, students can gain new skills and knowledge that can be useful in the future (Rawitt 150). It is important to note that performing community service should not be the sole criterion for obtaining a diploma. Students should also demonstrate good academic performance and pass all necessary exams. Community service can be one of the components that help students develop academic and social skills that will be useful in their future lives.
Work Cited
Rawitt, Jean. Volunteering: Insights and Tips for Teenagers. Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2020.