Volunteers In Public Schools

"IN OUR STEAM ERA" for sure! Big thanks to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development, and Kids' Orchestra for helping to make the STEAM Fair at Villa Del Rey one for the books. Students were able to learn about the importance of their water quality, how builders test bridges, and how to have fun through music thanks to these community partners.

Do you work at or own a business in Baton Rouge? Do you go to a church looking for ways to make an impact in your community? WE NEED YOUR HELP! We are proud to support our local schools and one of the main ways we do this is through partnerships with local businesses and organizations. We bridge the gap between the public school system and our community for the betterment of our entire community! Volunteers, book drives, career readiness etc. the sky is the limit! If you are interested in learning more about a partnership with VIPS you can email [email protected].

We are always looking for volunteers to join our EveryBody Reads and EveryOne Counts programs -a once a week, 30 minute commitment. You pick the school and the kid you want to tutor. We have over 400 students who have been recommended by their teacher who still need a tutor! Will you step in to help the next generation?

We love working with you!

We are happy to recognize Reading Friend Megan Bella as our Volunteer of the Month. Megan reads with pre-K student Micah at The Dufrocq School. Micah loves dirt bikes and monster trucks,?so Megan selects books that match his interests to maintain his attention and keep him engaged. It's her first year as a Reading Friend. She said that reading with Micah is the highlight of her week. Thanks for your dedication, Megan Bella!

We are proud to spotlight Vickie Garrett of Louisiana Community Volunteers for Volunteer Appreciation Month! Ms. Garrett has partnered with VIPS for almost five years to host a book club at Glen Oaks Park Elementary. Her students meet weekly to read, enjoy craft activities, and discuss their books. Ms. Garrett tries to select thought-provoking books that deal with emotions and responsibility. She’s seen great improvement in the students' behavior, attention and reading of the students. Her students are always excited to see her. Thank you for years of service, Ms. Garrett!

This week, our Volunteer Appreciation Month feature is Reading Friend Bo Boehringer! We honored Bo with the Crystal Apple Award last night at our Apple Awards ceremony. Join us in thanking Bo for hundreds of hours as a volunteer for 12 years! Bo has volunteered at Magnolia Woods, Parkview? and Wedgewood Elementaries. He is dedicated and his students always smile when he arrives! Thank you for years of changing lives, Bo!

This week, we are excited to feature Mele Payton as our Volunteer of the Month. Mele is an LSU Sports Administration student who serves as both a Reading and Math Friend at McKinley Elementary. She became a volunteer in order to make a positive impact on her community. Throughout the school year, she loves watching her students transform into eager learners. Thanks for going above and beyond by participating in both programs, Mele!

Math Friends enrolled in? LSU's Service Learning programs had a great time at our Math Connect Meeting. EBR Math Curriculum Supervisor Latrenda Knighten gave an informative presentation on ways to make math engaging for elementary-aged students. Our Math Friends played math games and discussed the successes and challenges they witnessed with their students this year. Thank you for your time, Mrs. Knighten!

Congratulations?to our 2024 Apple Award winners!?They have demonstrated their deep understanding of the importance of community involvement in public schools.?Join us as we honor their selfless contributions with a night of celebration featuring a social hour with delicious bites and live music from "Essentiall Groove" band, followed by the awards ceremony and dinner.?Click the link to purchase your tickets: https://lnkd.in/gNVPsQTn Dr. Terri Wallis Atmos Energy