Why I volunteer at my daughter's old school

A familiar face at back-to-school

In August, Courtney Johnson volunteered at her daughter's former elementary school handing out back-to-school packets. A boy she remembered came up and thanked her for planning the best class parties.

“You always planned the best class parties. I miss those.”

Why she chooses the elementary school

Johnson volunteers at her daughter's elementary school rather than her middle school. She has many reasons, from knowing the lasting impact she has to giving her daughter space in her teen years.

School as a parenting support network

Johnson's families are mainly in the Midwest and on the Carolina coast. Spending time at school helps her lean on staff in a been-there-done-that parenting environment where teachers feel like family.

Honouring her parents through service

Johnson's mother volunteered at her elementary school. Her father grabbed the catcher's mitt and donated time to the Lions Club. After losing her mom suddenly in February, giving her time feels even more important.

“The best way to say thank you is with your time.”

Staying connected with original friends

Johnson made her first parenting friends at story time and play gyms when her daughter was young.

Volunteering led to substitute teaching work

When her daughter was in preschool, Johnson started volunteering weekly.Teachers learned about her past teaching experience through hallway conversations.She quickly became a preferred substitute and now gets regular texts asking if she is available.

Continuing at the elementary school

With limited opportunities to volunteer at the middle school level, Johnson will continue volunteering at her daughter's former elementary school. She fills her cup during school hours without missing time with her daughter.