Local Education: Getting Involved

There are many different ways to become involved in the system and the lives of our city’s children. Finding the right way for you to contribute your time and energy is only a matter of researching these many possibilities. Every situation is different and organizations will be glad to find a way for you to participate, as well as the school system.

Countless organizations in your city cater to volunteers looking for ways to participate in children's lives to make a difference. Spend time looking for organizations that allow volunteers one on one time with a family or child. If your schedule is busy, then talk with various organizations about Saturday or weekend opportunities. Most groups will work to find a spot for you in their volunteer base regardless of your schedule.

If you fear that you don’t have the time or resources to work one on one with a child, look for organizations that work with larger groups of children. Many after school programs are always looking for new classes to offer their students. You may be able to find a position for yourself teaching children about your favorite hobby or pastime. Classes surrounding physical education, art, drama, music and dance are always in high demand.

After school programs are a great way to get involved because they have a host of opportunities available. If proposing and teaching a semester long class isn’t your thing, then volunteer to purchase and put together the snack offering. Maybe you are only available one afternoon a week, check with the organization to see where you fit in.

Organizations like non-profits and after school programs may seem to fall outside of the education system. However, their presence in your city is as important as the quality of the schools. Look for an organization that relies on the support of the community it serves.

If you think you would like a career change and want to affect your local education system directly, become a teacher. There are many ways to enroll or enlist in a teaching program. Although the city’s school system and teaching programs are highly selective, with the right attitude you can work to become an educator.

Depending on your educational background, the process of becoming a teacher can be fairly simple. You need to research the different licensing policies of the state and see how transferable your previous work experience is. It is possible you will need to expand your education and get a certification or a teaching degree.