Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is VIKES a Graduation Requirement?  NO, though it was in the past, VIKES is now simply a class project worth 10% of the 2nd or 4th Quarter's Grade

  • What is the Specific Service Commitment?  20 hours to either one agency(for a minimum of 10 weeks) or 20 hours of serve to a minimum of 4 Community Service Events.

  • Does past community service count for fulfilling requirement?    No, since this a project that is tied to the curriculum, community service must occur during the course.

  • What are my community service options?  FHS provides an extensive list of agencies/events from which to choose.

  • Can I fulfill my commitment at Fremd? The Fremd Social Studies Department decided that serving the outside community is closer to the true spirit of the program.  The ONLY exceptions are for the Peer Tutors in the Tutoring Center, Mentors in the VAMP Program, and the Tech Help Team of the Media Center.   

  • Can I serve at an agency or work an event that is not on our list?  Maybe.  The VIKES coordinator (Mr. Bruce) needs to make arrangements with any new organization/event before your service will be permitted.  Do Not assume that the agency/event will work.

  • What if I can't find an agency or set of events that works for me?  You can always choose the Research Paper Option.  However, check with your teacher and/or the VIKES Coordinator if you experience a problem.  They might be able to help you find an option that can work for you.

  • Can I split my service hours between different agencies?  If you choose the Agency-Specific Option, we ask that you commit to a semester of service with one particular organization.  .

  • Is Community Service my only option?  NO  -- see Research Option

  • What if I choose not to perform community service or write the research paper?   VIKES is a requirement of the class and will be a component of your grade each quarter.  Failure to fulfill the requirement will result in the loss of points/credit just like any assignment.

  • When is the deadline for selecting my community service or research option?  If you choose to fulfill your service with one particular agency, we ask that you commit to the agency by October 1st/February 21 (depending on the semester of the project).  Service to Community Events can occur at various times throughout the semester. 

  • Who do I write down on my contract as my contact person?  It is important to identify the specific person with which you work if you commit to one agency.  Special Events will each have a designated contact person in charge. 

  • Can I use internship hours or other "service" hours for VIKES?  No, your hours need to be separate from Internship programs and/or your service requirements for organizations such as NHS, Viking Ambassadors, and Individual Honors, etc.   However - you might be to add hours to these service requirements to count for VIKES - See Mr. Bruce for Clarification.

  • Can my community service take place at a church?  As a Public School, we cannot allow you to be involved with religious instruction or the general promotion of a particular religious belief, but other responsibilities might work.  Check with Mr. Bruce if you need clarification.

  • What will happen if I do not complete all 20 hours in time?  Just like any assignment, grade reductions will be imposed for late or incomplete work.    

  • Can my job count as my community service? If you work for an agency on our list, then you could volunteer 20 hours rather than get paid.

  •  Can my community service involve other members of my family/parents?  Yes.  However, a member of your family cannot be your supervisor.