Service-learning projects are ways in which scholars can get involved in helping the community while also learning skills that can be beneficial to them personally. Lynnhaven Middle School gifted scholars are helping Virginia Beach’s homeless population and minimizing environmental harm throughout the community.  The scholars are making sleeping mats from used grocery bags. Each bag must be flattened, with its bottom and handles cut off. Then, each bag must be rolled length-wise and cut into one-inch pieces. These one-inch pieces are the “plarn” used for the final crocheting of the mats.The individuals who receive the sleeping mats can use the mats as barriers between them and the ground. During the winter months, having a mat as a protective barrier can make as much as a 20-degree difference for someone who is sleeping outside on the ground. It takes about 700 bags to make each sleeping mat, so send in your used grocery bags. A collection box is stationed at the school bookstore and can be given to Mrs. Cerja in room 426 or any gifted scholar.