Volunteer In Paradise

Julie Bacon

Increasing student achievement is the mission of Volunteer in Paradise (VIP) in the Paradise Valley Unified School District. Recruitment leads the way through school and district newsletters, social media, websites and stakeholder group meetings. Information was placed on volunteer websites, including AARP Create the Good, VolunteerMatch, Idealist, All for Good, HandsOn Network, Chamber of Commerce, at community meetings and events, in newspapers, newsletters, magazines and by word of mouth.

The match process begins when a teacher makes a specific request by completing the Teacher Profile. A volunteer indicates preferences and availability via the Volunteer Profile. The coordinator matches the Volunteer In Paradise (VIP) with teacher(s). The coordinator then notifies both parties and the teacher then makes the initial contact.

VIP’s must meet minimum volunteer requirements, orientation, background checks and training specific to the district and the AZ College and Career Readiness Standards. Teacher expectations include arranging the initial meeting, orienting the VIP to the school, having the volunteer observe in the classroom first, providing a quiet workspace within sight of an employee, and utilizing the volunteer as a tutor providing direct instruction to small groups of four students. Ongoing support and retention rounded out the key aspects of the successful VIP program.

The VIP College Corps is a partnership with Paradise Valley Community College in which college students earn required service learning hours. Students are enrolled in Introduction to Education and Introduction to English Language Learners classes. Orientation, training and school field trips are required.

Mary Cummings
PR Consultant