Want to Make a Difference?
Sep 27 '00 (Updated Oct 15 '00)
Well, the first six weeks of the new school year are almost behind me and I must admit, I'm glad. We have established a routine in my classroom, gained some mutual respect among ourselves, and figured out just how far I can be pushed before I lose the warm tone in my voice.
Along with becoming accustomed to my new students, I'm beginning to get to know their parents as well. I'm blessed this year to have several 'gung-ho' moms who are sitting on ready to help me out in any way; this is much appreciated. I realize, however, that most parents (including mothers) are very busy with their own jobs and hobbies and to find effective ways to contribute to their child's school experience is sometimes frustrating. You desire to help, but you feel there's nothing you can do. For those interested, I'd like to encourage you to use the following list of ideas to find some small way to help your child's teacher, school, and learning community. More people will benefit from your generosity that you'll ever realize.
*If your schedule allows:
-Help chaperone a day-long field trip.
-Volunteer to send treats for school parties or special activities.
-Designate a certain time each week to run copies, cut letters, or laminate materials for your child's teacher.
-Be available in the evenings to make telephone calls to remind students of certain events or assignments if the need arises.
-Visit school to talk about your job or hobby or perhaps arrange a visit to your place of work for your child's class.
-Cut Campbell's Soup Labels or General Mills Boxtops for Education and see that they are submitted and redeemed for school merchandise.
-Remain active in your school's Parent/Teacher Association.
-Help organize and/or participate in a fund-raising activity for an upcoming school trip or event.
-Volunteer to visit your child's class and read your favorite children's book. Bring treats or a keepsake for each student (such as a bookmark).
*Even if your schedule doesn't allow for the above activities:
-Set your VCR to record educational television programming suggested by the teacher for their video library; or.. donate blank VHS tapes or cassette tapes for classroom use.
-Order extra books from your child's book order forms and donate to the school or classroom library. Reading material is sometimes very scarce and extremely appreciated.
-Donate your children's outgrown coats and sweaters to the school counselor and/or clothing closet. You wouldn't believe the number of children who arrive at school in the winter without being warmly dressed.
-At the beginning of the year, purchase two sets of school supplies when everything is on sale; send the extra set to school with your child for someone who isn't able to purchase the items or just to have in the supply closet for future use.
-At Christmas, ask the teacher or office staff for a name of a needy child. Purchase clothing, toys, and food for the family and deliver to the counselor. The school staff will see that the gifts are properly delivered.
-Above all, seek ways to stay involved in your child's learning experience. Even if it's simply to encourage good study and attendance habits and instill strong morals and values in your child.. you will have contributed in a very lasting way.
I welcome any other ideas or suggestions you might have for helping your community's school. Thank you so much for reading.. have a great night!
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
Epinions.com ID:
Teach2755
|
|
Member: Lisa
Location: Jonesboro, AR
Reviews written: 95
Trusted by: 54 members
About Me:
I'm a half-crazed sixth grade teacher who's ready for summer. Enough said. :)
|
|
|
© 1999-2009 Shopping.com, Inc.