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? Fauntleroy resident Judy Pickens (right), who volunteers her time and talent to a variety of endeavors including local schools, offered to gather and report information on volunteer needs at the schools where the need is greatest. Here’s her second contribution, with more to come!

By Judy Pickens
Special to West Seattle Blog

Volunteers at any area school with a multi-cultural student body bring more than an extra pair of hands. They bring a perspective on contemporary American culture that can help smooth a difficult transition for recent immigrants.

I experience this value most often when helping a student read. Being in a regular classroom doesn’t mean recent English speakers have a firm grasp on this new language. Many words and concepts are still unfamiliar. What is a “mural”? What is “landscaping”? What does being “perplexed” feel like?

Whether working one-on-one or monitoring a group activity, school volunteers are available to immigrant students in ways that busy staff cannot be – listening, reacting, affirming, reassuring. Give it a try. You’ll be rewarded by knowing you’ve helped new Americans feel more at home.

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 Roxhill Elementary (9430 30th SW)
Contact mllehman@seattleschools.org

Ongoing: Active adults to monitor students on the playground during lunch/recess, especially 12:05-12:35 PM; other times available. Pick your day and time.

Ongoing: Adults or older youth to tutor before and after school, including math and reading. Pick your day, time, and grade.

Ongoing: Adults to provide before-school supervision (7:30-9 AM) in the cafeteria. Pick your day.

Ongoing: Adults to assist the school nurse by providing basic first aid. Could be all day or early/mid afternoon. Pick your day and time.

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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 with costumed students having a great time at “Spooktacular” family night.

One time: Fri. Dec. 2, 7-10 PM. Adult or older youth 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 listening to students read or copying materials; 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

Ongoing: Adult to support the school’s “Husky Buck” behavior incentive program by copying/distributing forms (any day), drawing/recording names (Mondays), and keeping prizes stocked (periodic).

Weekly: Adult or older youth to assist the school counselor in hosting a 20-minute “Best Attendance” popcorn party for the winning class; any day Tues.-Fri.