BROWN COUNTY SCHOOLS

 

Download a Brochure Here:

Volunteer_Program_Brochure

 

 VOLUNTEER PROGRAM

Q. What is my role as a volunteer?

A. Volunteers will work with individuals or small groups of students.

They will extend the teacher’s teaching time as they:

• Have high expectations for all students

• Help in reading, writing and math

• Reinforce skills by providing extra drill

• Help with spelling, language, math games

• Help children with writing assignments or special projects

• Read stories with students

• Listen to students read

• Assist with student work and answer questions

Q. Who will I work with?

A. Teachers will identify the need for volunteers in their classrooms. Students needing help will be assigned to the volunteer by the teacher based upon student need. Volunteers may work with individuals or small groups of students.

Q. What do I do if I can’t be at the school at my assigned time?

A. Things planned and unexpected come up and that is understandable. The most important factor is that you let the school know when you cannot attend. Please call the school office so they can notify the teacher as soon as you are aware of the conflict.

Q. How much time does training take?

A. There is an initial orientation. It is also a good idea to talk with the teacher to determine what strategies will be most helpful to the children with which you are working.

Q. Do I need to provide activities to do with students?

A. No. The teacher will give you activities to work on with the student.

 Q. May I bring my younger children with me when I volunteer?

A. It is important that you are able to focus on the students you are working with when you are volunteering. For this reason, you need to make other arrangements for your younger children.

Q. Is student information confidential?

A. Yes. Please respect all students’ privacy. Do not betray his/her trust. All information about a student’s behavior, medical concerns, academic performance, or family is confidential. Care should be taken not to discuss these issues where parents or students might overhear.

Q. What if the student doesn’t accept my help?

A. Talk with the classroom teacher. Teachers know their students best.

Q. Should I be involved in recruiting additional volunteers for the program?

A. Absolutely. Talk it up! If you enjoy being a volunteer, tell your family, friends, co-workers and neighbors about it. Word of mouth is the best way to advertise a good thing. Your enthusiasm will be infectious. You are the best recruiter!

Q. Is it possible for a group of people to share a time slot in the same classroom?

A. Yes. If you choose to volunteer, please limit your group to no more than four individuals. You would be responsible for finding the members of your team.

 

CHILD – FAMILY VOLUNTEER JOB DESCRIPTION

The volunteers work under the supervision of the teacher and the school principal.

 

Job Responsibilities

1. Volunteer 30 – 60 minutes once a week.

2. Volunteer sessions are during the school day.

3. Commit to one school year.

4. Dependability is essential.

5. Contact classroom teacher to share successes and any concerns or problems.

6. Notify the school if you are unable to attend the scheduled volunteer appointment or

if delayed in arriving at the school.

 

Qualifications

1. Patience.

2. Listen. Make sure you allow enough “wait time” for the students to think.

3. Celebrate small accomplishments and achievements.

4. Flexibility and openness.

5. A belief in the ability of all individuals to be successful.

6. Attend and participate in orientation session.

8. Complete an application and criminal background check.

 

Benefits

1. Recognize you can make a difference in a child’s life.

2. The satisfaction of knowing that you can make a positive change in a child’s life.

3. The opportunity to help a child through a supportive relationship.

4. Contribute to the achievement of a child.

TEACHER’S RESPONSIBILITIES:

 

• Identify students who could benefit from having a volunteer.

• Orientate volunteer to the classroom.

• Determine activities for volunteers appropriate for your students.

• Supervise the work of the volunteer and provide materials for volunteer session.

• Set meeting times and places for your student and volunteer.

VOLUNTEER’S RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Attend orientation session.

• Make a commitment for one school year and for 30 – 60 minutes once a week.

• Communicate with the teacher.

• Sign in and out of the school each time you serve as a volunteer.

• Notify the school secretary if you are unable to keep your volunteer session.

BENEFITS TO STUDENTS

Volunteers frequently ask, “Am I really making a difference?” “How do I know that I am making a difference?”

Below are some signs of success that volunteers observe from students as a result of their relationship.

• Improved academic performance

• Opening up and communicating with the volunteer

• Improved attendance

• Improved eye contact

• Raising a hand more in class

• Increased communication, smiling

• Taking more risks in class and with peers

• Improved interaction with peers

• Appearing to be happier in school

• Decreased hostility

• Acting more enthusiastic

• Paying more attention

 

St. Mary’s School Brown County Board of Education Office

408 W. Washington 503 NW Cross

Mt. Sterling, IL 62353 Mt. Sterling, IL 62353

Phone: 217-773-2825 Phone: 217-773-3359

Fax: 217-773-2399 Fax: 217-773-2121

Phone (217) 773-2825  

Fax (217) 773-2399 

Email:ckoch at smseagle.org