School volunteers an invaluable community asset

More than 1,000 parents, grandparents, community members, businesses and organizations in South Portland contribute thousands of hours, dollars and resources in a wide variety of ways: helping students in the classrooms, chaperoning field trips and dances, assisting in the libraries, supporting booster organizations and parent groups. Mentors work one on one with a child to build confidence, make connections in their communities and become more successful in school. There are businesses throughout the Greater Portland area who are hosts for the Middle School’s Job Shadow Program, giving all our eighth-graders an opportunity to experience the “real world” of work and the professional environment. And a wide array of professional host students for their Senior Internship.

Senior citizens provide a multigenerational climate for our children. Business professionals, through the Junior Achievement program, bring their expertise into the classrooms. Students of every grade work with fellow students and their community.

It is the belief of the South Portland School Department that by creating strong ties between the community and the schools, everyone benefits. Our children are our future. Giving our children the best, most well-rounded education possible prepares them to be adults who are involved in their communities and who make good citizens and leaders.

Our volunteers, with their dynamic and inspired commitment to the students of South Portland, create a caring network of support in these hectic times, when world discord and personal challenges threaten to weaken the fabric of our community. Imagine how affirming and reassuring that must feel to the children as they put their best efforts into their education, their world and their life.

There is no better way for that precious commodity of time to be invested. The value of the return is incalculable and will last a lifetime.

Thank you to all the caring, committed school volunteers in South Portland for your dedication and energy.

Molly Aldrich, Director of Volunteer Services, South Portland School Department

Jane Eberle, Director of Business Partnerships, South Portland School Department