Go back to school – as a volunteer! New WSB feature

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EDITOR’S NOTE: We often publish requests for volunteer help – and over the years, some have asked, what about a regular feature listing such needs? Here’s a start: Fauntleroy resident Judy Pickens (right), who volunteers her time and talent to a variety of endeavors, offered to gather and report information on volunteer needs at local schools where the need is greatest. Here’s her first contribution, with more to come. So – go back to school, as a volunteer!

By Judy Pickens
Special to West Seattle Blog

With the school year now under way, teachers and support staff are beginning to identify volunteer needs. Those needs are especially acute at area schools where work schedules, child-care responsibilities, and/or language factors greatly affect parents’ availability to help.

Two such schools kick off this occasional column, compiled in cooperation with volunteer coordinators for selected West Seattle and White Center schools. Listings will be for one-time events a few weeks out and for ongoing needs.

To inquire about any of the following opportunities to enrich our public schools, contact the volunteer coordinator noted under the name of each school. Expect to complete a standard security-clearance process – and to know that you have made a difference in the lives of students.

At Highland Park Elementary (1012 SW Trenton)
Contact stpaolone@seattleschools.org

One time: Thurs. Oct. 27, 5:30-7:30 PM. Energetic adults and older youth to eat pizza and play games to make sure that excited, costumed students have a great time at “Spooktacular” family night.

One time: Fri. Dec. 2, 7-10 PM. Adult for general assistance (including clerking the bake sale) during the Winter White-Out Ball/Family Picture Night.

Ongoing: Adults to support classroom teachers with tasks such as setting up equipment or listening to students read; varies by teacher/grade. Pick your hours/days M-F, 9 AM-3 PM.

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At West Seattle Elementary (6760 34th SW)
Contact smtaylor@seattleschools.org

One time: Wed., Oct. 5, all or part of day (8:35 AM-3 PM). Adults to move students through the process on Picture Day.

One or more times: Wednesdays, Oct. 12, 19, & 26. Adults to support health screenings, primarily walking students to and from class. Morning shift 8:45-10:45; afternoon shift 12-2:30.

Woodsman- Steve September 21, 2011 (6:46 pm)

Judy is an amazing friend. Our community appreciates everything that she has done. I wish you success on this project too.

highland park resident September 21, 2011 (7:43 pm)

This is why Seattle Public Schools are so bad- they always have to depend on volunteers to do what they should have Teaching Assistants do. I know there’s a budget crisis, but sometimes you get what you pay for, and volunteers, while best-intentioned, are not always qualified/unbiased/trained/flexible/professional.

me on 28th Ave SW September 22, 2011 (8:12 am)

What a great idea, thanks Judy!
Regarding the state of SPS: I would argue that Seattle Public Schools are better because of volunteers. I have been frustrated with the administration of this district and their choices of how to spend money, but very happy with the quality and caring of the teachers at my children’s schools. Their experiences have also been enriched because of volunteers who cared enough to devote their time and energy to the school. I am very grateful to them all.

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