AlektraClementine Posted August 9, 2009 Posted August 9, 2009 Hoping some of you moms might have some direction to give me. So I went to open house last Friday. Kids are entering 1st and 3rd grade. I typically sign up to volunteer on an as-needed basis. My daughter's teacher totally guilted me into signing on as the Room Mom for her class. Any of you ever do this? I'd really appreciate some tips. My major functions will be organizing class parties and teacher appreciation week. What else am I in for? Thanks!
bentnotbroken Posted August 10, 2009 Posted August 10, 2009 You may have to get extra chaperones for field trips if needed. An end of the year gift for teacher, usually something all the kids can take part in. Like t-shirts with all their hand prints on them or something. I did a gift card(dinner for 2 ) with a card made by each child telling about a special moment with the teacher. Possible book fair volunteer, informing other parents of special projects or events. Field day, etc. Not too bad. Enjoy it now. Then comes band, football, basketball booster standing in the rain and cold running a concession stand.
Author AlektraClementine Posted August 10, 2009 Author Posted August 10, 2009 Backbone is just fine. I'm actually excited about it. Just never done it before and I like to be prepared. Thanks for the tips Bent!
bentnotbroken Posted August 10, 2009 Posted August 10, 2009 Grow a back bone. If you don't want to do it, tell her you don't have the time or the energy. The teacher cannot legally or physically force you to do something you don't want to do. Just tell her/him you need the extra time and engery to be spend with your husband, the garden, your job (if any), your best friend's upcoming wedding, your nieces upcoming birthday parties, etc. Are you a parent? If so have you ever had to balance the things your child and school need to be successful, then if not get a backbone and stop beating down women in this forum about their children and their attempts to do what is best for them. They ask other parents for a reason. Sheesh so HS behavior. You're welcome. It actually turned out to be enjoyabale. You will do fine.
IfWishesWereHorses Posted August 10, 2009 Posted August 10, 2009 I did it for 12 years straight between kids and enjoyed it (though I'm over it now!) Since most everyone has email now, I would send out a letter introducing myself and stating what will be coming up during the year as well as the dates and ask for email addresses. That is so much easier than playing phone tag (especially in the days before cell phones). It will also make it easier when planning a surprise for the teacher. We handled all the parties, as well as our classes involvement for Fall Fest, Spring Fest, Field Day, teacher apreciation luncheon, and parties. My least favorite thing was teacher gifts from the class (someone always didn't like an idea). One thing we did for teacher apreciation day was ask the parents to send in a gift card of their choice to make a basket for the teacher. If you have a chance to meet her spouse, you might want to get some ideas of her favorite things from him. The other thing I think that parents very much appreciate is to have plenty of notice as well as reminders. If you have a can take pictures of the class at all of the events, we had a parent who had a sign shop who made a little albulm for the teacher and each kid at the end of the year as welll as a slide show to show at the end of the year party. Spending time at the school, and with the teachers and staff is a great way to get to know the faculty as well as the kids. Also a great way to request a favorite teacher for next year. I also volunteered to read to and help with computer testing for AR, it had me there most every day for a few hours. That is something I totally enjoyed! Have fun with it and remember that you can never please everyone! When it gets closer to the parties, we veterans can hellp with activities and favor ideas
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