Voluntary Work in Primary Schools
Want a sense of accomplishment? How about a chance to become active in one's community? Need some college credit or invaluable experience? Then consider volunteering at a local primary school. Primary schools or elementary schools are considered grades one through five. There are many ways for parents, community members and high school or college students to get involved.
Other People Are Reading
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General Information
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It is important to call ahead to the school to find out the requirements needed to volunteer. Typically schools also provide training sessions for their potential volunteers; these sessions are often a standard practice and attendance is required. Before you begin volunteer work, it is important to establish how many hours per week or month you are able to volunteer. Unless college credit is received, there is generally no time requirement. Many schools depend on their volunteers to keep certain programs afloat, so it is important only to commit to times you are certain you can be in attendance.
Small Groups
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Reading or math partners can be assigned to work with children in small groups or individually to encourage literacy and/or math skills. Often the children are underperforming in their reading or math abilities. Reading partners can read with the children to build confidence in their abilities, complete exercises or activities to enhance their skills, and promote enjoyment of reading. Math partners have the same goals as a reading partner--to give the children a sense of accomplishment, build confidence and encourage math skills.
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Classroom
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Classroom volunteers are placed in a classroom to support the teacher. Often they will have duties of keeping children on task, supervising group activities and/or assisting during recess or gym time. In some cases, volunteers will be assigned to specific students who are distracted or distracting the classroom. Classroom volunteers can accompany teachers on field trips or other special school activities outside of the classroom.
Special Opportunities
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Opportunities can arise for volunteers to lend their support for special activities going on at the school. These activities can include setting up for school events such as band or choir concerts or art festivals; organizing a potluck dinner; assisting teachers during a holiday event; or working in the library to shelve or repair books. Volunteers also can help put together the school directory, be on hand to assist during picture day or even contribute to the school's website.
Other Opportunities
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Other opportunities can include doing office work, such as greeting, filing, answering the phone and generally assisting the secretary or other staff members.
Some schools have a "welcoming club" in place for persons new to the community. Volunteers can help families acclimate to the school by giving tours, providing the necessary information about the school and what the child will need, and helping the parents feel welcome in their new community.
If you have a green thumb, a local school might need your help. Not all schools have someone to plant flowers or help keep the school looking its best. Volunteers can help plant plants or even conduct lessons about plants and gardens for students.
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