As Classroom Coaching resumes this week we still have some unfilled spots and are recruiting volunteers for spring. In addition to openings in 2^nd grade Reading in Spanish – Compañeros en Lectura – we also have more than 20 openings in our Step-Up program at Webb Middle School.

Ask any of our volunteers  – something happens when you see the lights go on in a child’s mind. We talk a lot about the rewards of seeing children realize they’ve just mastered the skills to solve a math problem, or read fluently. What we don’t talk about as often, and maybe we should, is what happens to the volunteer working with those students.

Annette D. was a bit concerned at first as it had been a while since she had worked with kids. She volunteered and recently posted this on volunteermatch.org about her experience: “…Volunteering as a coach has been a great experience. It’s been much more fulfilling than challenging. The youthful enthusiasm, engagement and excitement I see in the kids (and other volunteers) is so motivating….it’s hard to remember where else I’ve gotten so much out of just an hour a week! I just know you will find it as enriching and rewarding as I have if you choose to be a classroom coach. Please consider joining us. It’s a real win –win.”

More than 850 of our neighbors here in Austin give an hour a week, every week of the school year as Classroom Coaches providing academic support. Their time in class helps our city’s children increase their self confidence and their ability to succeed in school. And, as Annette points out, it also makes the volunteers feel pretty great. Here’s what another Classroom Coach, Fred A.  says: “If you’re looking to make a difference in young people’s lives, and  help those who through no fault of their own are disadvantaged in education, then Austin Partners in Education will show you how…The staff does a great job creating lesson plans and choosing materials, and promptly responds with energy and sincerity.”

Please join Annette, and Fred, and hundreds of other volunteers giving one hour a week in Austin ISD schools. Volunteer in our Step-Up program Tuesdays, Wednesdays or Thursdays from 2:40 – 3:35.

Step-Up is an important program that provides deep intervention to 6^th – 8^th graders in Math and Reading. We are seeking coaches to work with 8^th graders during their advisory period three days a week. (Pick your preferred day, or help out all three!) Students participating in this program did not achieve mastery on their weekly math instruction. With our training, you’ll confidently model the correct strategy use, ask facilitative questions, and help students correctly apply strategies for success in math by using hands on games and activities.

Please register today at www.austinpartners.org and click the red volunteer button or contact us at apie@austinpartners.org.