Words in Action

Our school district is celebrating National Volunteer Week in a big way!  Wayzata Public Schools created a series of Facebook posts highlighting volunteers across the district.

At Greenwood Elementary we couldn’t select just one volunteer to honor, so we invited all our amazing volunteers to be part of a school picture.  It was really fun to see how many people were able to stop by school on short notice for the photograph.  The inspiring volunteers in the picture actually represent the hundreds and hundreds of parents that make a difference in our school.

We asked some of our volunteers to share what volunteering means to them.  A few of the quotes brought tears to my eyes because I see the words in action every day at our school.

 

“I’m thankful for the many volunteer opportunities at Greenwood, both in the classroom and behind the scenes with PTA.  Volunteering is a fun way to stay connected to our school community and I think the time we give really makes a difference for the children at Greenwood.”

~Becky P.

“I so enjoy being a volunteer at Greenwood. As a former teacher, I am always happy to be back in a school setting and as a parent I am happy to help at school events as I know they are making the students’ experience better. I am always amazed at the wonderful support of parents and faculty and feel that Greenwood is truly a very special elementary school.”

~Deb B.

“Greenwood Elementary has become a second home to me. Serving in the PTA as a volunteer, Vice President and now as President has become very rewarding. I love having an impact on the education my children receive and the many other children at the school now and in coming years.  I realized that if I wanted to know what was going on I needed to get involved. A bit reluctant at first, but now I understand what volunteering means. We have the power to change lives in small and big ways. It’s truly amazing! I feel good about everything we do to help support our teachers and staff in making a better place for our children to be educated.”

~Jennifer V.

“If there is any small thing that I can do that can help make a young person enthusiastic about reading, interested in school, or excited about learning; how can I avoid staying involved?”

~James P.

“I’m a strong believer in the team approach of parents, teachers and staff working together for the educational success of our Greenwood students.   Volunteering is my way of giving back with the added benefit of showing my kids I care about their school and value their education.   I truly enjoy working with other parents, students and staff, whether in the classroom, serving on PTA committees or participating in school events. It’s great to be part of the Greenwood community!”

~Tracy B.

“I’m very blessed in my life and volunteer in a variety of ways as a means to give back to the community.  Volunteers at school allow kids to be able to participate in a whole host of activities that might not otherwise be available to them.”

~Linda G.

“Through volunteering at my children’s school I have gotten to know the wonderful staff and some terrific moms too! It’s very satisfying providing students and teachers with the positive parental interaction and support.  I like being part of the message to the larger community that Wayzata parents really do care and want the very best for our kids.  And working to organize and run the fundraising events is just plain fun while helping our schools cover costs of activities and supplies.  And, I hope it is setting a good example for my children.”

~Pam C.

“I love to volunteer at Greenwood because I truly believe the saying is true that it takes a village to raise a child.  School is more than just the place where academics are learned.  I like helping to be a part of a community where kids are given unique opportunities where they can grow and thrive as individuals.”

~Erin B.

“Volunteering at Greenwood is a great way to show our kids how much we value their education and that we consider school a worthwhile cause.”

~Michael H.

“I like to volunteer because it gives me the opportunity to share my talents, skills and experiences. I hope I can impact student lives in a positive way and invest in their future.  I believe it is very important for my children to see that I am giving of my time, so when they have the opportunity to volunteer, they will see the importance of volunteering and the cycle will continue!”

~Kari P.

“What I love the most about volunteering at Greenwood is the connection I make with the teachers and staff, the students and other parents. I love knowing that my contribution directly impacts the experience my children and others have at school.”

~Amy A.