Parent involvement
Great Oaks parents commit to a minimum of 15 hours of involvement for each child per school year. Many find they fulfill this commitment before the end of the first semester. We are very proud of the fact that on any given day we can find a number of volunteers helping out even in our middle school, the age at which many students lose out on the opportunity to interact with their parents at school. Parents may help with lunch and recess supervision, class activities and assisting the teachers. If you are interested in serving as a volunteer, join a committee.
How will my children benefit if I get involved in their school?
Being an involved parent is the best thing you can do for your child’s education. According to a report from the National Parent Teacher Association and the National Coalition for Parental Involvement in Education, children whose parents participate in their school have higher grades and test scores, better attendance, and are more likely to be well adjusted and enjoy school. The U.S. Department of Education and the National committee for Citizens in Education also report that children of involved parents achieve more in school.
What are the best ways to get involved in my children’s school?
Get to know the right people: Teachers, principals, office staff, and school activity coordinators should be at the top of your mingle list. Attend our school’s open house or arrange a time when you can stop by and introduce yourself. Let them know you want to be involved in school events, and give them contact information.
Volunteer in class
Great Oaks teachers welcome help from parents. At the beginning of the year, tell your children’s teachers you are interested in lending a hand, and remind them periodically when you have time to help. You can do anything from reading in the classroom to making copies for homework packets. Even if you work full time and cannot commit to a regular schedule, you can still volunteer. “Don’t just say, I’m working full time so I can’t do anything,” Offer to prepare materials for class projects at home or call other parents about an upcoming event.
Be a room mother or father
Many teachers use a parent or two throughout the year to plan class activities and parties, keep communications clear, and organize carpools. This can be more of a commitment than volunteering once in a while, but there’s no better way to get to know the teacher and other parents.
Membership on one of our committees will give you a chance to meet other parents, raise funds for projects and materials at your child’s school. Contact the school’s office if you would like to join or chair one of our committees Community, Technology, Moral Focus, Buildings & Grounds, Events, and Boosters committees.
Share your talents
If you are a musician, volunteer to perform for a school event of help out with musical classes. If you are knowledgeable about a subject that children find interesting, see if you can come in as a guest speaker. If you are handy with a saw and hammer, join the Buildings & Grounds Committee. Whatever your expertise, call the school office and offer your services.
