February 24, 2020

Dripping Springs High School will host its annual Day of Service March 10-11, with nearly 1,500 students participating at various locations throughout the community. The Days of Service event was initiated in 2019 with the goal of building community and unity through service to others. Last year’s event included all members of the junior and senior classes; this year is being expanded to include sophomores as well, which means 1,450 students will be volunteering around the community. On those days, students will spread out throughout the community to help with projects at multiple locations, including yardwork, clean-up activities, and more. Students will be at most worksites from approximately 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

An assembly featuring Texas First Lady Cecilia Abbott on Monday, March 9, will kick off the event. The brief assembly will start at 2 p.m. in the competition gym.

DSHS students will be lending a hand at 43 locations including Pedernales State Park, Dripping Springs Ranch Park, Dripping Springs Library, Red Arena, Blanco State Park, Dripping Springs Sports Park, Founders Memorial Park, Central Texas Food Bank, the Pound House, the Senior Activity Center Thrift Store, PAWS Animal Shelter, Reimers Park, Hays Women’s Shelter, the Austin Zoo, and all DSISD campuses.

“The fact that this Tiger tradition has been totally student-driven is amazing,” praised Principal Angela Gamez. “This was a huge undertaking that includes a great deal of planning and coordination. Our community consistently supports our school so this is a wonderful opportunity to turn the tables.”

“Service Day was an idea from our former principal Joe Burns and the purpose was for the students to give back to the community for everything they do for us. Students learn the importance of giving back and how through doing that we can change the world,” said senior Maverick Walker. In addition to Walker, senior Ali McFadden and junior Bella Rodriguez launched the concept in the fall of 2018, held the first Day of Service in April of 2019, and have planned this year’s event as well.  With the support of the community, students also raised funds to pay for transportation, lunches, and other supplies.