Embedded Files
Hello! I am looking for new volunteers for my Young Authors program. What began in one classroom in 2023 grew to nine classrooms in 2024, and 13 classes in 2025. I always brag that my volunteers are the best part of Young Authors. I know the participating teachers would agree. Please read through the following questions and answers to see if this is something you would be interested in pursuing. Let me know any questions that you may have that I have not answered.
Questions & Answers
When would I be volunteering?
You could volunteer as much or as little as you would like. When teachers sign up for writing lessons, I will share the times and dates with my volunteer squad, and you could sign up for any times that fit your schedule. Most lessons are one hour during the school day. If more than one teacher at a school is participating, they usually sign up to have the lessons on the same day. So, we often teach two or three lessons in one day. Of course, you could choose the times that work for you. Last year my 2nd Graders began in November, and my 1st Graders began in January and February. I am hoping to get everyone started a little sooner this school year. The sales will most likely be at the end of the school year in the evenings. I will request help with setting up, serving as cashiers, and cleaning up for these events.
Where would I be volunteering?
We will be helping within the classrooms of our Douglas County Schools. Again, you would be able to select the locations that work for you.
What would I be doing during the volunteer time?
A typical lesson begins with me introducing the skill of the day and modeling what the students will be doing. Next, we break into small groups (usually 4 or 5 students) to complete the work. You would be leading the small group of young writers to complete the task. The lessons begin with offering feedback for revising their rough drafts, helping students edit their stories, guiding students to create their book illustrations, titles and covers, and helping them create an About The Author page. I send out lesson plans and suggestions by email a few days ahead of each lesson.
What do I need to do to volunteer?
The school district requires all volunteers to complete volunteer packets. If you are a retired teacher and your license is still active, you only need to complete a Volunteer Packet. Otherwise, you will need to complete the Packet including the Background Check. The packets can be found HERE , at the Douglas County School District Office, or at any of the school offices. In the Purpose of Volunteering section, you can list “Elementary Schools” in the Location blank and “Young Authors” in the Program blank. When complete, please return the packet to the District Office. Someone from the District Office will contact you when your packet has been approved. Be sure to let me know when you have that approval, and I’ll get you signed up for an event. The process does take some time, so the sooner you complete and return the packet, the sooner you can start helping!
Tips from the Top for completing Volunteer Packet
Tips from the Top for completing Volunteer Packet
The District Office has been temporarily relocated to Gardnerville Elementary School at 1290 Toler Ave. However, you are asked to NOT go to the school office. Instead, as you are walking up from Toler Ave. there will be this sign pointing to double doors and you will need to call 782-5134 or ring the doorbell to be let in.
Diane Coston is in charge of all Douglas County School District volunteers, and she sent me this information..."Please tell them to only fingerprint at the Douglas County Sheriff's Office in Minden and it's very important for auditing purposes that they put the day of being fingerprinted on the waiver form. They will bring all paperwork and fingerprint card back to the same place as above. When they bring paperwork back, they will need their driver's license so a copy can be made."
I'm in! What do I do now?
Please complete and return the three questions on the attached form to let me know. You may also just email me the information and I will complete the form for you. If you are a returning volunteer from last year, please complete the form or email me to let me know if you would like to help again. Thank you so much!
Volunteer Calendar
Click HERE for a link to the Volunteer Calendar. Attached is a Google Doc calendar on which you may sign up to volunteer. The times and locations are listed on the calendar with red spaces available for names. Just add your name to any spot in which you could help. If you would rather email me to let me know, I can add your name to the calendar.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse