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a feel for you. Ultimately, the principal and teachers are responsible for allowing volunteers to work with the students during the day. They have to be sure that you are a responsible and safe person who will positively influence the students.

If you want to volunteer in a classroom the principal will ask the teachers if they are in need of an assistant. Don't feel rejected if your child's teacher declines the offer. Sometimes it is more disruptive to have a parent in the classroom.

What do I do after I volunteer?

Once a teacher or other staff member has accepted your offer you will have to find a few moments in their busy schedule to talk with them. Ask them what you can do to help them out. See if they would like you to handle paper grading, supply gathering, general student questions, ect. You may find that the students will come to you to ask to go to the bathroom, get a drink, or complain about another student. You will need to know the school's and teacher's rules in these cases and use your best judgment.

To help you settle in, ask for a copy of the school's handbook. This will tell you a lot about what the students and staff are allowed and not allowed to do. If you are volunteering before or after school, talk with the program director to see if they have any specific rules for the students.

You may also need to get a quick tour of the school. By doing this you will be able to easily locate the work room where the copier and other papers are kept, bathrooms, the library, and the gym. It is also a good idea to take a look at the student work in the halls and other achievement boards. This will tell you what areas are priorities.

It is very important to put a name to a face so you can address the student with more than a, "Great job buddy" (though these are also great ways to foster a relationship). If you are volunteering in a classroom or specific program ask for a list of the student's names.

The daily routine?

When you enter the school, you will be required to sign in at the office and wear a visitors or volunteer badge. This is to ensure the safety of all the students. The badge easily identifies you and shown other adults and student that you are trusted and can be of service.

The most important part of being a volunteer is to be consistent. If you are planning to be at the school on a regular basis tell the teacher or staff what hours you will be there. Also, let the teacher know if you can not make it because you are sick, had an

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