Students at Sanger need help from volunteers

By Katy Spartz

“There’s a place for everyone,” said Chris Ritchie, PTA president. “We have opportunities for people who can spare 30 minutes a week, who can only help in the evenings or on weekends, or who can volunteer just once a semester. And if you have a particular skill or interest you’d like to share, there’s a place for you, too.”

For those who enjoy working directly with students, the school’s Book Buddy & Math Mentor Program offers an opportunity to make a direct impact. This year, volunteers are especially needed to support first- and second-grade students in English and Spanish.

Volunteers may help reinforce classroom skills, provide additional practice and encouragement, or challenge students who are ready to take their skills further. Volunteers do not need to be professional educators; teachers and the school provide training and curriculum materials. Volunteers must complete a Dallas ISD background check each school year through dallasisd.voly.org.

The next volunteer trainings are September 16 and October 14 at 9 a.m., with additional sessions to be added as needed. Register at alexsangerpta.com/volunteer.

The impact of consistent support can be significant. One volunteer recalled, “My student struggled with the same word week after week. We kept coming back to it each week — and the day he got it on the first try was the best day ever!”

Another volunteer shared: “Ver el progreso de los niños al aprender a leer me hacía sentir tan útil que me cambiaba el humor por completo. Saber que era un apoyo real para ellos y para la maestra me daba una gran satisfacción.” (“Seeing the children’s progress as they learned to read made me feel so useful that it completely lifted my spirits. Knowing that I was a real source of support for them and the teacher gave me great satisfaction.”)

For those who prefer to help outside the classroom, Sanger also offers opportunities including cafeteria and lunch support, Brighter Bites and family programs, campus beautification and gardening, book fairs, and family and community outreach initiatives.

Volunteer opportunities and registration are available at alexsangerpta.com/volunteer.