“Chess club”, “tutoring”, “library”, “bulletin board”, “reading to students”, “meeting”, “literature group”….whew! Those are some of the entries from just one page of the MPA Volunteer Sign-in Book. If you don’t believe me, check out the book yourself in the south reception area – and while you’re at it, make sure to log any time spent volunteering.

The amount of support that we receive every day, day in and day out from volunteers is astounding. I asked Sara Schmitt about volunteering at MPA. Sara is co-president of the MPA Parents Association and her husband Andy is treasurer.  Daughter Carly is in fourth grade.

What was your first volunteer experience at MPA?

Andy, Carly and I have been volunteering at admission open houses since we joined the MPA community in 2002.  The open houses were, and still are, a great option for us as working parents.  These events are typically scheduled on weekends or evenings, thus allowing us to participate in a meaningful way at a time convenient for our family.  We learn something new about the school every time we volunteer at these events.  Plus, it isn't hard for us to share our experiences and thoughts about MPA. In fact, it's fun!

Why did you volunteer in the first place?

As a family we believe supporting the various communities we are a part of is very important.  MPA plays a central role in our lives at this time, so it naturally is the focus of our energies on many levels - including volunteerism.

What's kept you involved?

The relationships we have developed with other families, faculty and staff.

We appreciate the opportunity to work with these individuals in support of common goals and in support of our shared community.  And, new friends are a bonus.

What has surprised you about volunteering at MPA?

The wide variety of people volunteering for the school.  We have volunteered alongside students, parents, grandparents, faculty, staff and students!  This type of commitment from across the community is very special and provides a great model for our kids.

What's the best way to get started volunteering if you haven't tried it yet?

Think about what you love about the school and start there.  For us, working at the open houses was a natural place to start. Talk to faculty and staff that you know and see if they need help.  There are numerous opportunities to give just an hour or two of your time to support in the classroom or in other areas.

Talk to members of the Parents Association, your Grade Reps or other parents that you see volunteering.  Ask them about their experiences and how you can get involved.

Ask.  My mother volunteers at school, primarily helping out in the Development Office.  She noticed an opportunity to provide support, she asked how she could help, and the next day they put her to work.  Now, she offers her support when she has time available, and people will call her to ask for her help.

What does your daughter think about your volunteering?

I asked Carly this question and she said, "It's cool that you volunteer because it's important to the school.  Without volunteers the school would fall apart."  She also expressed that she thinks it is good for parents to be involved because we are all part of the MPA community.  She appreciates our involvement, even when it takes time away from our family.

*          *          *

And on behalf of all of us at MPA, we too appreciate your involvement - more than you can imagine. For those who are still looking for the right opportunity, here’s a link to our volunteer form. All are welcome to join our growing list of dedicated parent volunteers.

So check out the log book in the reception area, and mark your calendars for the May 18^th Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast when we announce the grand total of volunteer hours for 2006-2007 – and thank you for all the help!