Glebe Street School Volunteers Lend a Helping Hand — and Give Themselves a Pat on the Back
Volunteer Opportunities Benefit Students and Adults Alike

It’s lunchtime at Glebe Street Elementary School and a parent volunteer is hopping on one foot across the gymnasium with students.

Parents and other community members at Glebe are finding that volunteering not only lends a helping hand to the school and its children — it benefits them, too.

“Parents play an integral role in their child’s learning and school-related activities,” said Assistant Superintendent Katherine Sullivan. “This involvement is crucial to the success of the educational process and is most welcomed and appreciated.”

Lisa McCoy, a Glebe Street parent, and Pat Hill, a retired elementary teacher and grandmother, actively volunteer their time each week to the school’s Peer Reading Program. They assist in making it possible for sixth graders to be reading buddies for kindergartners, every Friday from 12:30-1 p.m.

“The students involved in the Peer Reading Program benefit in so many ways,” said McCoy. “It stresses reading and partnership and the older children really become a role model to the younger children. It’s great for me because I get to stay connected with the school — knowing the names and faces, without being intrusive.”

The school has a variety of other opportunities to get involved in as well.

During lunch, two Glebe Street fathers volunteer to dance, play basketball, set up relay races and just plain be silly with students every “Wacky Wednesday.”

A handful of Glebe Street mothers donate their time each week to help students save their money in the school’s first-ever student banking program.

Kevin Quinn, an involved member of the community, comes to Glebe every morning — rain or shine — to direct traffic, helping relieve congestion in the school’s parking lot.

A group of devoted parents, teachers and other community members continue to stay involved with the school’s Parent-Teacher Association (PTA).

“Schools are often at a loss as how to best use parents who want to be involved,” said Interim Principal Charles Smith. “I believe the way parents are utilized at Glebe Street could serve as a model for others.”

Volunteering every day, once a week or even once a month is not for everyone. In fact, with busy work and personal schedules, it is sometimes not realistic. But for those who can, there are many rewards. “I love volunteering my time at the school during my lunch hour,” said McCoy. “I look forward to every Friday.” Being creative with scheduling, or volunteering just one time during the school year can be effective.

“The students really look up to the adult volunteers. When you see them outside of school and they say hi, it really builds a sense of community,” said McCoy. “The students make you feel great for being you, and I think you do the same for them.”

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