Seriously, this job is huge. There is no possible way that you can do it alone. (If you can... send me a message because I want to learn your ways!) You need help. More often than not that help does not come in the form of staffing. You need to actively seek out an army of volunteers. Check out my 6 out of the box ideas for getting volunteers into your special education classroom.
1. Middle School/High School Helpers - Many districts have a community service requirement for middle school and high school students. What better place for them to give back than in your classroom?
2. Transition Students - Does your district offer a transition program for students age 18-21? If so, consider collaborating with the instructor to see if your classroom can serve as a job site.
3. College Interns - There are many opportunities to open your classroom to college interns, not just official student teachers. Reach out to local colleges and universities to see if they are looking for additional classroom placements.
4. Military - Did you know that many branches of the military have school liaison officers who serve as a link between military families and schools? While their primary role is to support students and families, they also support educators with training and resources. Consider checking with your local school liaison officers to see if they can coordinate volunteers to support military students in the classroom.
5. PTA - Are you running short on parent volunteers from your class? Check with your PTA to see if there are any parents from other classrooms who may be interested in helping out in your room.
6. Boy Scouts - Do you need help with a specific project? Check with your local boy scout troop. They are often looking for service opportunities within their community. Building furniture, designing adaptive equipment, and supporting their peers are all worth while projects that the Boy Scouts may be willing to take on.
Do you have any unconventional ways to recruit help in your classroom? Please share!
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