Volunteer in the
classroom can assist
teachers in a variety
of ways, thereby
freeing the teacher
to focus more time on
the teaching/learning
process. An organized
program of volunteer
assistance can
provide a unique
contribution to the
educational program
by helping assume
some of the many
roles of the teacher.
Volunteers should
arrange to meet with
the teacher before
beginning as a
classroom volunteer.
The first visit or
two should be spent
observing the
classroom, getting to
know the students and
the style and
routines of the
teacher. This will
help the children to
become familiar with
you before you begin.
The teacher is in
charge of all phases
of classroom activity
and the volunteers
will take directions
from the teacher.
Your activities
should support the
efforts of staff
members but not
replace them or
exceed their
authority.
It
is not in the best
interest of the child
to have a parent,
grandparent,
guardian, etc.
volunteer in their
child’s classroom,
therefore volunteers
will be utilized in
classrooms other than
those in which their
children are
enrolled.
Try to match your
interest, abilities
and time availability
with the school
needs. Contact the
building principal
for specific details
regarding school
need, requirements
and scheduling
options.
Maintain good
communication
especially in the
event of an absence
or schedule change.
If you cannot fulfill
your commitment for
any period of time,
please contact the
school or classroom
teacher as soon as
possible so other
arrangements can be
made.
Follow school and
district procedures
regarding signing in
and out, wearing
badges, using school
materials and
maintaining
health/security
standards. Know
emergency procedures
for fire, illness,
etc.
Seek advice from
those directly in
charge, including
teachers,
secretaries, aides,
or other school
personnel who are
trained and
responsible for the
tasks. Maintain a
spirit of partnership
and cooperation with
school staff.
Be yourself.
Warmth and
friendliness
foster
volunteer-student
relationships.
Maintaining a
sense of humor
and comfort will
help ensure your
success with
young people.
Always be
consistent with
specific rules
and practices
maintained by
your staff
partner. Also, be
familiar with
school and
classroom rules.
Read parent or
teacher handbook,
if necessary.
Maintain your
position of
responsibility
and authority at
all times. Do not
let friendships
or neighborly
relations
interfere with
your role as
school volunteer.
Learn student and
teacher names
quickly.
Be aware of and
sensitive to the
unique gifts and
needs of
individual
students. This is
critical at all
age levels.
Encourage and
praise students
when appropriate.
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