(EDITOR’S NOTE: MLK Day has become a day to focus on the value of service – particularly volunteering. It’s something you can do any day, and this periodic compilation of local school-volunteering opportunities can help – pitch in!)

By Judy Pickens
Special to West Seattle Blog

Even when the 5th-grade teacher I support plans to be away, leaving her class to a sub, she asks if I can come anyway: “Please come for your regular time. The students love having you.” It’s not that I bring superior qualities as a classroom volunteer; it’s that I bring variety – someone there from the “outside” for a couple of hours. When I’m there, students know their questions will be answered quicker, they will receive more attention, and they will have another adult to tell about something special that just happened to them. Consider brightening an otherwise gray, rainy winter day for students at one of the following area schools in need of volunteers (note one time-specific opportunity is THIS FRIDAY):

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

One time: Adult or high school student for general assistance (including clerking the bake sale) during Movie Night on Fri., Jan. 20, 6-8 PM.

Ongoing: Adults to support classroom teachers by listening to students read or copying; varies by teacher/grade – your choice. Pick your hours/days M-F, 9 AM-3 PM.

Ongoing: Adults or high school student to support Reading/Math Club by listening to students read or helping with math – your choice. Pick any days M-Th, 3 PM-4PM.

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

Start-up: Adult to initiate a school-wide compost program during lunchtime. Help develop the details!

Ongoing: Adult to support the Chess Club; 12:30-1:10 PM daily or selected days.

Ongoing: Adult to provide one-on-one help to 4th-graders. Pick your hours/days M-F, 9 AM-3 PM.

Ongoing: Adult to assist in a kindergarten classroom. Pick your day Tues., Wed., Fri. 11:30 AM-3 PM.

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At White Center Heights Elementary (10015 6th Avenue SW)
Contact frishhrm@hsd401.org

Ongoing: Adults to support classroom teachers by listening to students read or copying; varies by teacher/grade – your choice. Pick any hours/days M-F, 9 AM-3 PM.