Connecting older generations’ wisdom with younger generations’ enthusiasm is the cornerstone of Cherry Creek Schools’ new volunteer program. Giveback Cherry Creek, recently launched by the Human Resources Department, is an innovative districtwide program to engage community members by matching their skills and experiences to support students. Giveback Cherry Creek trains multi-generational volunteers and pairs their skills and passions with needs in schools. The inaugural orientation and pathway training sessions, held this spring, saw 22 participants.
“If you like working with kids, this is a good way to make a difference,” Giveback Cherry Creek participant Julie Laitos said. “Most importantly, I feel like the district will set me up to make a difference. Already, the quick follow-up with a volunteer opportunity next week makes me certain that I will be used in the most effective way. I am looking forward to making a difference in a young person's life.”
Giveback Cherry Creek participants can be parents, grandparents, community members, empty nesters, and friends of the district. Participants go through an orientation and pathway training to learn about the district’s mission, Core Values, and safety and security, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Volunteers hear from a panel of principals and teachers from all grade levels about the current needs in schools. Then, volunteers will choose their pathway for additional training.
“The de-escalation lecture was remarkable. It helped me understand how to identify escalation and strategies to help de-escalate. This will be so helpful in the classroom and in my personal life,” Laitos added.
Former board member Karen Fisher helped create Giveback Cherry Creek. While she served on the board, she heard from parents that teachers are some of the most important people in their children’s lives.
“These parents and community members are service-minded, and they care deeply about Cherry Creek Schools,” Fisher said. “They have diverse backgrounds, and diverse experiences, all of which would enhance students' educational experiences. Principals and teachers have a need for trained, committed, and capable volunteers to give back to help the next generation.”
“Regular classroom volunteers allow our teachers to provide more differentiated instruction, which tailors lessons to each learner’s needs,” Chief Human Resources Officer Brenda Smith explained. “When kids get to know volunteers, trust is built, and student engagement increases. This will also strengthen the bonds within our community.”
These volunteers help ensure each and every student is engaged and supported. They will go to a school that matches their strengths with real needs. Another pathway that volunteers can choose is Literacy, where a licensed teacher will provide training on reading levels and comprehension strategies.
“It is so energizing at Sunrise Elementary School. There is good work being done there and what I am doing is important,” Giveback Cherry Creek volunteer Art Tucker said. “I feel appreciated, and I left really excited about it. I helped students get breakfast and I worked with students on reading.”
The fall orientation and pathway training sessions will be Sep. 5, 2024 from 9 a.m. – 12 noon at the Instructional Support Facility and Oct. 3, 2024 from 12 noon – 3 p.m. at the Educational Services Center. To get more information, please email Giveback@cherrycreekschools.org
