The Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) supports students, teachers and the community in many ways. Please visit the website https://www.shutesburypto.org/ to learn about ways to get involved.
The Volunteer Program
The Volunteer Program at the Shutesbury Elementary School is dedicated to supporting the school and strengthening community ties. Caregivers of students, community members, school staff, and the principal have all had input in developing the program. This program welcomes the participation of all those interested in the welfare of our children, our school, and our town.
The program focuses on two ways you can share your experience, skills, and knowledge with the children and the school: by registering in the directory of Specialized Skills, and as a Learning Partner.
Offering Specialized Skills
Occasionally, the school needs someone with specific skills or knowledge in areas such as carpentry, photography, world languages, computers, music, baking, and environmental studies, to name a few. We also seek volunteers to help with the numerous special projects that occur throughout the year. Letting school staff and faculty know about your area of expertise will enable us to compile a list of community members who can provide the school with invaluable assistance.
Reading Partners
The Reading Partners was started in 2011. This program had eighteen volunteers who visited school on a weekly basis to befriend and encourage young readers. We are hoping to build off of the success of the program and support all of our readers as they learn the joy and fascination of becoming lifelong readers. Contact Heather Lobenstine in the Learning Commons for more information. 259-1212 X133.
If these activities do not fit into your schedule or interest, there are many other ways you can volunteer such as through the PTO, in the classroom or helping with recess or lunch duty.
A Note about Background Checks:
Shutesbury Elementary School is required by state law to obtain criminal offender record information (CORI) from the criminal history systems board prior to accepting any person as a volunteer, this includes field trip chaperones and any other volunteer who has contact with children. M.G.L. Chapter 71, Section 38R; School Committee Policy – File: ADDA