I grew up with a PTO/volunteer mom. From the time my older brother and I were enrolled in school, mom was there. She made copies, collated, helped with events, made food, got involved with crafts, read with my classmates, chaperoned field trips … the list goes on. It’s one of the things I remember most from my elementary school days. Why? Well of course I loved being able to sneak in a good midday hug, but beyond that, I knew that SHE knew what was going on. Always. And that was comforting, because she was part of my elementary school experience, not just a witness to it.
When preparing to send my own son to school, I made it a goal to be that mom. While technology has changed and I’ll likely never have the need or opportunity to master a mimeograph machine, the overall experience is what I had envisioned. Doing little things as many days of the week as I can, to be of service to those who are tasked with educating our children and, of course, sneaking in a hug when it’s not disrupting the flow of events.
What I think gets lost in the messaging about volunteering is that it doesn’t have to take a lot of time. Coming in for even fifteen minutes to help sort mail or make copies makes a difference. As I continue my work with the PTO at Vine Street, one of my goals is to help expand our volunteer network and help parents feel more connected to the school community as a whole.
Similarly, as a member of the Bangor School Committee, I would seek out opportunities for parents to be involved in meaningful and accessible ways. Whether parents can give five minutes or five hours each week, every little bit of engagement counts.