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I’m a parent volunteer. A volunteer mom. A PTOer. PTA member. Whatever your school calls the women in the halls that don’t get paid, that’s me. Like so many other parent volunteers, I do this out of love for my children, the school that I’ve chosen for them, and for their future.
A former teacher, I recognize that many teachers don’t appreciate me. I remember my across-the-hall coworker rolling her eyes behind 2 of my role model moms commenting, too loudly, “Get a life! Or at least a job!” (I know… how rude! Believe me, I am so thankful she won’t be my kids’ teacher.)
And then there was one of my son’s teachers telling me that they call the Holiday Shopping Bazaar the Holiday Shopping Bizarre. She said this to me: that year I was the bazaar chairperson.
So, I know some think we’re crazy. But there are the teachers who do get it. They understand that we’re there to help them.
There are several reasons that parents volunteer. Among them:
- Letting your children know that what goes on at school doesn’t always stay behind closed doors
- Allowing your children to see that you are interested, aware and involved in their education
- Supporting, and getting to know, the adults your child spends a chunk of his day with
- Creating relationships with people similar to you
- Offering opportunities to make a difference in not just your child’s education, but within the educational system
Teachers, there are so many things you can do to involve parents in your classroom. Lean on them. Take advantage of their interest in your classroom and in helping you. We want to be there. Please, welcome us. You don’t have to agree with our methods or our motives. Just recognize that we are what you have. We come with our children; your students. Make your room a welcoming place and embrace what we have to offer.
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{ 5 comments… read them below or add one }
Hear hear! Our PTA was able to recruit Room Parents for all of the classrooms, but virtually none of the teachers are using us. It’s disheartening.
Such a great point. I have friends who have worked in low-income schools who are so grateful for parental involvement when they move to different communities. It’s a shame that not all teachers understand that there are so many schools without help…when help is offered, take it!
Amy´s last blog ..One Crucial Detail Overlooked, One Crucial Person Left Behind
It definitely helps when the teachers are warm and welcoming. I ADORE my son’s teacher. She is the main reason that I volunteer to go on practically every class trip.
I am shocked that there are teachers who would think “get a life” about some of the parent volunteers (although some of the parents might think that of each other!). We’ve lost so much funding over the years, I don’t think our district schools could function without an army of parent volunteers — and I’m pretty sure our teachers all know and appreciate that!
Donna´s last blog ..Volunteers in America
Oh definitely! I hope that all of my son’s future teachers leverage my skills and time when necessary. It would be a true shame if the class or school were in need of something, but missed out on the opportunity because the teachers didn’t tap into us parents to help make it happen.
c2cmom´s last blog ..Volunteerism On The Rise: Yay! We’re a Part of a Movement
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