Volunteer Orientation August 19th, 2025
This morning, I attended the New Volunteer Orientation meeting for the St. Johns County School District. Obviously, every school district is going to handle these meetings differently, but I thought our readers might be interested to know what topics were covered.
The meeting started with introductions, of course. Then basic logistics were covered. Background checks are required to volunteer in our schools, as they should be. For our district, a nationwide background check for sex offenders is done, and a more local criminal background check as well. There was a discussion about how security is handled at the school front office.
Then an overview of the different volunteer positions were discussed. In St. Johns County the positions are Pre-K Reader, Reading Tutor (K thru 12), Math Tutor (K thru 12), and Mentors (all ages). There was an experienced volunteer for each of these roles at the meeting who shared a little bit about their experience volunteering in that role. The district’s plan is to hold smaller, follow up meetings for volunteers in each specific role to share information, tips, and techniques. I highly recommend that all new volunteers use these meetings to find someone that can help mentor them in their new role. It can be super beneficial for new volunteers to be mentored by more experienced ones.
Here are some Basic Volunteer Expectations that were discussed (written in my own words):
Make a commitment and be consistent. Everyone is allowed vacation (please give plenty of notice if you can) or may get sick from time to time. But in general, try to make a commitment to the entire school year. Once you get started, your teacher and the students will look forward to you showing up every week.
When first working with a teacher, let them know your strengths and your preferences, but be flexible. When you first meet, your teacher may not be sure of the best way to read with their class - and so you can give your suggestions. Or your teacher may know exactly what they want you to do - and so listen up and do it their way to start. After you’ve become familiar with their process, then you may be able to make suggestions later. I have heard of volunteer positions that got started both of these ways, and everything in-between. So bottom line is: Go in with a plan but be ready and willing to adjust to the teacher’s wishes.
Great communication with your teacher is vital. But, don’t take up any more of their time than you need to. Keep conversations and emails short. If you find some precious moments to socialize, that’s great! Just don’t bother them when they’re busy.
Teachers are on a very strict schedule. Make sure you start on time, and plan with the teacher how much overall time you will have with the students.
Behavioral issues are to be handled by the teacher only. Let the teacher know if any issues come up.
If a student shares personal information which causes you to feel concerned for their safety, report this to the teacher immediately.
When working with a student(s), you should be in proximity to where you can see or hear the teacher. The teacher is responsible for you.
