Volunteer FAQs
We know it can be scary and uncertain being a classroom volunteer for JA - that's why we're here to help! Please contact us with any questions or concerns you might have ~ 330.434.1875 OR staff@jaofnco.org
Who can volunteer for JA?
We have a very diverse volunteer pool made up of business people, parents, retirees, college students, service learning students, government workers, and community members. The key to volunteering with JA is the desire to inspire students and help them look ahead to their future.
After I receive my class assignment, what's next?
Call your teacher to schedule an observation session (optional). At the observation session, go ahead and schedule your visits to the class. If you do not need an observation session, you can go ahead and schedule your class visits over the phone. Let JA know when you plan to start! Even if you are planning to complete your class assignment later in the school year call your teacher now to introduce yourself and discuss your visitation schedule.
What information do I need to get from the teacher?
You will want to schedule your class visits, get a school calendar, ask about the school's visitor policy, helpful information about your class, teacher's rules on class participation, and anything else you think would be helpful.
What if my teacher/volunteer does not return my calls?
Please call JA immediately! We usually suggest you leave three-five messages. You can also ask the school secretary for your teacher's e-mail address if the JA staff has not provided you with one. If you do not hear from your partner by phone or e-mail within an acceptable length of time, we will call the school or volunteer to determine the situation.
How flexible are the class visits?
Very! You and the teacher will work together to determine a class schedule that is beneficial for everyone. You will be able to discuss day of week, and in most cases (elementary school) time of day. You will also determine start date and end date.
What will be my time commitment?
Your time commitment will vary by program. If you are new to JA you will be required to participate in a training session (see Training Schedule). Time commitment by program:
Will the teacher be in the classroom?
Yes, your teacher should stay in the classroom with you to maintain discipline and act as a bridge between you and the students.
What do I need to prepare for my class visit?
Nothing! JA will provide you with a kit of materials for each program. You will supplement the provided materials with your own knowledge and experiences. However, if you want to take in additional materials that you feel are relevant, feel free!
What do the materials consist of?
The JA kit comes in the form of a nifty little briefcase filled with everything you need to implement the program. There is a guidebook included for both the teacher and volunteer which includes step-by-step directions of leading the activities. We also provide student workbooks, worksheets, table tents, and certificates of accomplishment. Plus all of the goodies that make up the "fun" stuff: stickers, flash cards, game peices, pens, bookmarks, posters, and so much more!
Can I take treats into the classroom?
Yes you can, with the teacher's approval. You must always be careful of allergies.
What do I do with my leftover materials?
You can offer them to the teacher and students, or call JA and we will make arrangements based on the materials left over (some kits change annually and we are not able to reuse materials.)
Can I do more than one program a year?
Yes! You can do as many programs as you like. In fact, it is more efficient for our coordination if elementary school volunteers commit to do two (or more) classes back-to-back since the time commitment is so short per class visit. Other volunteers do multiple classes spread throughout the year.
How do I get JA in my child's classroom?
Let the JA Staff know where your child goes to school and who your child's teacher is, and we will send information to your child's principal and teacher.
If there are other hints, tips, and questions that you would like to see on this page, please send via email to staff@jaofnco.org. Thanks!
