G.E.R.M. (Growing in Environments Resistant to Microbes): Creating a Healthy Environment

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 22 million school days are lost annually due to the common cold alone. (CDC, 1996) This situation can be mitigated through the teaching and application of hygienic practices. This unit will help students understand the importance of hygienic practices, and increase awareness of how germs are transmitted. This knowledge will be used to engage in various service-learning projects to reduce the spread of germs and promote better health.

Given the many options and the flexibility built into this service-learning project, it is hoped there will be few problems identifying appropriate service-learning opportunities within this framework for students receiving special education services, similar to their nondisabled peers.