Kira Munoz

  Panola College is adding service-learning to its curriculum starting in fall 2010.

Kira Munoz, service learning coordinator for Panola College, is working with several instructors on trial assignments before rolling the full program out in the fall.

Service-learning integrates community service and instruction to foster educational growth and complete projects in the community. Instructors can choose how to implement it into their courses, ranging from traditional assignments to extra credit opportunities.

AmeriCorps, a community service organization, assigned Munoz to work with Panola College through a Wagner-Peyser grant from the Texas Governor’s office, according to Dr. Barbara Cordell.

"My goal is to have everyone grasp the concept of service-learning so that we may work together to incorporate it into the curriculum for next semester." said Munoz, "I have met with a few people that are going to try service-learning assignments out this semester, and I encourage everyone to at least consider it."

Service-learning benefits the students by engaging them in the learning process, making them aware of the impact of civil service, and classroom material comes to life.

Email Munoz at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to learn more about service-learning opportunities.

Munoz received her BA in Psychology in 2009 from Alverno College in Milwaukee, WI. While there she was the director of the Character and Leadership Development Program and the volunteer coordinator for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee. Kira planned the 2009 Wisconsin Private Colleges Initiative for Diversity (WPCID) Conference and served as chairperson for the conference.