Volunteer Guidelines

Thank you for taking the time to read these guidelines. We hope you enjoy your time volunteering in our classroom Here are some things to keep in mind while working with our children...

 

Working With the Students-

* Use positive comments that will allow the children to feel good about themselves. Praise even the smallest efforts or successes. Praise the students for their success, no matter how small it may seem. Every step they take is a step closer to the final goal!

*Please know that during the school day, my main concern is my students and their well-being. Consequently, I am unable to get into lengthy discussions about particular students during instructional time. Many thanks for your understanding.

*Some children have a difficult time maintaining appropriate behavior or separating when their parents volunteer. It may be wise to discuss these things with your child the night before you come into the classroom.

*Be a good listener, but be careful not to give advice or to make promises that you may not be able to keep.

*Please do not give students any materials, including foods, without first discussing it with the teacher.

* Use appropriate language to guide students rather than just give the answer.

*Avoid negative comments like: Don't act like a baby, you should know this

* Let children make a mistake and say, "Try that again.";

* When a child says, "I don't get it" or "I don't know what we're doing", state the activity in a new way.

*The teacher is available, should a student need additional help that the parent or volunteer can't provide.

*Help all students not just your own child.

* Allow your own child to be self-reliant in the classroom.

* Be friendly and enthusiastic. It's contagious!

* Keep your sense of humor and SMILE.

Working With the School-

* Sign in and out each time you volunteer.

* Wear your nametag.

* When in the building, please turn off cellular phones and pagers.

* Ask questions! No question is inappropriate if you don't know the answer.

* If you have constructive criticism, tell us! We welcome your comments.

*Mrs. Evans has requested that younger siblings not be present in the classroom for volunteer or party times. Remember, your presence in the classroom is very important to your first grader and they appreciate your undivided attention. Younger siblings are not permitted on field trips.

Dependability-
Please be prompt and consistent. I know there will be times when you may be ill or unable to volunteer for good reason. However; please let a staff member know as far in advance as possible. Remember, the teacher will be expecting you on the days you are scheduled to volunteer and so will the students! If you know a few days in advance, please call our Room Mom so that we may schedule a replacement.

Respect-

* Accept the children as they are. Be ready to accept their differences in background, values, vocabulary and goals.

*You will be working with many children while volunteering in our classroom. Please remember that it is not appropriate to discuss a particular child's strengths, weaknesses, behavior, work habits, personality, or any other issue, with anyone else. Each child is entitled to a safe and private working environment.

And finally!...

*Volunteering in first grade can be messy! Please dress appropriately.

*Remember to smile and have fun! You are doing a wonderful thing for your child and for our class!