VOLUNTEER OVERVIEW
We welcome volunteers at MES and offer a range of opportunities throughout the year, from classroom support to school-wide committees. Most roles require just a willingness to help and a positive attitude, and much of the work can be done from home or your office. Thank you for your support!
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Within each class at MES, there are opportunities for parents to volunteer for both year-long roles (like class parents), grade-level volunteer roles, and one-off opportunities (like field trip chaperones).
Class Parent Leaders
Each classroom has Class Parent Leaders who assist with classroom supplies, party planning, teacher gifts, and PTA reminders. They are supported by PTA Class Parent Coordinators. Sign-ups for these roles open via the PTA Membership Toolkit app.
Classroom Volunteers
Opportunities for classroom volunteering include mystery reading, leading crafts, and chaperoning field trips. Sign-ups are organized by teachers and class parents, typically through Membership Toolkit or SignUp Genius.
Grade-Level Social Chairs
Each grade has 1-2 Social Chairs who plan social events like park playdates and movie nights, and assist with end-of-year parties. Sign-ups for these positions are available at the start of the year via Membership Toolkit.
The MES Parent Teacher Association (PTA) organizes enrichment and social events, supports teachers, and collaborates with school administrators to engage families. Led by an Executive Committee elected annually, and with sub-committees managed by parent volunteers, the PTA welcomes all MES community members to participate in events. Voting is limited to paid members, and volunteer opportunities are shared via Digital Dolphin and the private school Facebook group.
The MES Foundation offers additional support to Morningside Elementary by providing financial support for additional curriculum materials, teacher and staff training, technology, and facilities improvement. The Foundation is separate from the PTA and is funded by parent and corporate donations. The Foundation is managed by a volunteer Board of Trustees.
All Atlanta Public Schools are operated under the guidance of a GO Team comprised of elected parents, teachers, administrators, and community members. The GO Team is responsible for setting school priorities and managing the school budget including staffing. The MES GO Team meets monthly, with meetings livestreamed on the MES YouTube page. GO Team members serve two-year terms. Elections are held every spring.