Tips for Parent-School Groups
Parent volunteers serve a key role in student success - from not only providing support to teachers and educators, but to giving students additional parent mentors and advisors who model the importance of education and involvement. Engage more parents and streamline communication with these 4 tips:
1. An easier way to get involved: School parents are busy, 'nuff said. Engaging them effectively means schools need to reach them on their smartphones, tablets and social media channels. Gone are the days of paper sign up sheets in the classroom and mind-numbing reply-all email chains.
The solution? Free online sign ups with automated reminders from VolunteerSpot > coordinate class helpers, fundraiser volunteers, library and cafeteria parents, you name it. Click to get started
2. A variety of jobs & times to help: Want to get more school parents involved in the classroom? Give them an array of ways to help! Some parents like a simple "pick up 24 chocolate cupcakes for the class party" task while others are looking to use their artsy side and help make cut outs for the bulletin board. Is their a community garden that needs some green thumbs?
3. A way to help from home: Making it into the classroom just isn't feasible for some working parents who still want to pitch in - offer ways for parents to help from home that keep them engaged with the classroom. They can update the school's facebook page, classroom blog or school website.
4. Appreciation: Parent volunteers don't do it for the recognition but a little goes a long way! A simple thank you from the room mom, a hand-written note from the principal or even a yearly luncheon are great, easy ways to say thanks and show parents how much their help means.
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