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First of all I completely disagree with the premise that a public high school cannot require you to do anything non academic. Schools are designed to produce productive members of society, not only to impart facts. Schools do not require enough of their students, nor do they give enough support. A well designed community service programs enhances students knowledge of the world and ability to work with others.
We have so many problems in todays society that it is ridiculous to absolve schools of any responsibility and prevent them from helping students in a non academic manner.
When thinking about whether this is right or wrong do not forget that these students also really do help people whether they like it or not. Last year my mother was sick and my family (my mom, sisters, and me) was moving but we couldn't afford movers. Two high school boys helped us move to fulfill part of their community service requirement. We honestly could not have done it without them. Sure had their high school not required public service these kids would not have volunteered but they really did make a difference and help us through a difficult time.
10 hours of community service won't hurt anyone and can actually matter to others.
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