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FAQs for Volunteers

FAQs

What are the qualifications for volunteering?

Volunteer classroom aides must have at least a high school diploma or GED®. 
They should have strong skills in -- and enjoy --  one or more of the following subjects: reading, writing, math, science, social studies/history, teaching English, and/or technology. It is not necessary to be proficient in all these areas.

A volunteer should be willing to accept guidance from teachers about how to help students -- and be willing to learn. 

A volunteer cannot have prohibitive offenses on record. We require all staff and volunteers to submit recent clearances. Volunteer clearances are free and we will help you apply for them. The clearances we request are:

    • Act 114: Fingerprinting
    • Act 151: PA Childline
    • Act 34: PA State Police


Where would I volunteer?

You can volunteer in an actual classroom in Milton, Sunbury, Shamokin, Middleburg, or Bloomsburg.
You can also volunteer in a Zoom online class.


How many hours a week must I volunteer?

We do not require a minimum number of volunteer hours each week. We are happy to have you volunteer as many hours as you are able. Most volunteers give at least 2 hours of time a week or at least one class session - but you can volunteer more.


I've never taught or tutored before. How will I learn what to do?

No previous teaching or tutoring experience is required. You will have an opportunity to observe classes to see how they are conducted. We will provide training and the class instructor will give you guidance.

We require that volunteers complete initial training during the first few weeks of volunteering. These are short, self-paced, online training modules and selected readings. Each year you volunteer, we ask that you complete some additional training. You will have many options for training that meet your needs and fit your schedule. The time you take to complete training counts as volunteer time.


Do I have to volunteer all year round?

We ask that you commit to at least 4 months of volunteering at a time. You can volunteer year round with breaks for vacations and other responsibilities. Or you can work out a schedule with our volunteer coordinator.