Responsibilities of Volunteers

1. Importance of Dependability

• The volunteer’s loyalty and dependability are determined in large part by the degree of satisfaction felt on the job.  Tasks assigned should be perceived as meaningful and varied, and responsibility should increase as the volunteer can handle.Volunteers enter the program with enthusiasm and high hopes of a meaningful experience.  If a volunteer is not dependable, the teacher should find out why and make sure the volunteer understands what to do when he/she cannot come on an assigned day.
• The teacher should make sure the volunteer understands the value of his/her volunteer contribution and how it relates to the total effort.
  

2. Importance of Professionalism

• The teacher sets the example.  The volunteer will model the professional attitude in dress, manner, behavior, etc.
• Volunteer orientation should include a section on professionalism that reminds volunteers that, although their job is that of a volunteer, their commitment is professional.
  

3. Importance of Confidentiality

• The teacher should stress the importance of confidentiality to the volunteer.
• The teacher should instruct the volunteer not to comment on individual students, faculty members, or the school in an inappropriate manner.  Confidential files, papers, and records should be put away after they are used and are not to be shared with others.
  

4. Importance of Following Directions and Asking Questions

• The volunteer needs clear directions or instructions from the teachers.  The teacher should make sure the volunteer understands the assigned tasks.
• The teacher should provide samples or demonstrate how tasks are to be performed.
• The volunteer should feel comfortable about asking the teacher for clarification when needed.  The teacher should try to create a suitable working atmosphere to encourage good communication.
• Volunteers need clearly defined job descriptions and a thorough orientation to classroom procedures.
  

5. Rapport – The understanding volunteer:

• recognizes the child’s need to improve self-image and independent learning habits.
• supports the child by offering genuine friendship.
• recognizes the individuality of each student.
• provides a relaxed, friendly, and caring atmosphere with students.
• respects the teacher of staff member’s ultimate responsibility for the health, welfare, and education of each student.
• provides opportunities for each child to be successful.
• cooperates, coordinates, and communicates continually with school administrators, faculty members, and staff.
• is willing to express concerns and questions with supervisor.
  

6. Rewards – The successful volunteer:

• shares with the child the warm personal satisfactions which result from successful human relationships.
• provides the teacher or staff member with the satisfaction of knowing that student’s needs are being met and that quality education is being promoted, extended, and enriched.
• receives the sincere gratitude of the school community.
  

Sycamore Ridge School Volunteers Are:

Dependable! Dedicated! Responsible! Supportive!

Some Final Thoughts…

Thank you for your interest in the Volunteer Assistance Program.  Your experience will add a positive dimension to your life.  In addition to enriching our school programs, as a volunteer, you will automatically receive the following benefits:

• You will have a hand in shaping a bright tomorrow for children.You will have a greater understanding of what children are doing in school.
• You will discover and use the talents you have.
• Your own children will grow in confidence, knowing that you are involved.
• You will be rewarded by the love and appreciation of the children and staff.
  

THANKS!