Volunteer and Mentor Guidelines (Advocates) The old adage "it takes a whole village to raise a child" is certainly true when it comes to education. At Restoration Academy we believe that to truly help a child succeed parents, teachers, pastors, family, and volunteers must all work together in harmony. By God's grace these individuals can be used in powerful ways to minister to students here at the school.
As a volunteer/mentor your role is very unique. The primary disciplers of each student are the student's parents. Restoration Academy sees itself as a partner with the family. The school's volunteer/mentors are really an extension of the school. By extension we mean that the volunteer/mentor is desirous and willing to extend and expand the vision and mission of the school.
Extending and expanding the vision and mission of the school may entail providing tutoring, leading Bible studies, or simply providing an extra relationship with a student to help them on their academic and spiritual journey. Doing so, however, requires that the volunteer/mentor abides by Restoration Academy guidelines when working with the students. Some of the guidelines are as follows: - Building a relationship with a student at the school is an awesome opportunity, but it is also a risky venture. Not every child who enrolls at the school makes it. Some students are withdrawn due to ongoing academic or behavioral issues that begin to jeopardize the learning environment at the school.
- It is important that volunteer/mentors recognize this reality. The school's desire is that all students would make it here; however, that is not always the case. There may be a desire to advocate for a student should such a situation arise. In doing so it is important to share your concerns with the administration but not entangle yourself in a way that would come between the student and the school.
- Students will sometimes share information concerning abuse or neglect in their homes. In regards to such issues it always prudent to contact the school administration in case DHR or other authorities need to be contacted. This can become a legal issue.
- At times students may come to you with complaints or issues concerning students, teachers, or administrators at the school. In line with our school philosophy and with Matthew 18 it is imperative that you urge the student to go to whomever they have an issue against with the goal of re-establishing peace in that relationship. There may be a temptation to involve yourself by interceding on behalf of the student, but it is best to avoid entangling yourself with any of these issues. Also, it is always prudent to "assume the best" about whomever the student is discussing. Often times their complaints are emotionally charged and biased.
- At times the child's parents may contact you with concerns about the school, or they may contact you in regards to special needs for their family. In cases concerning the school, advise the parent that they need to talk to the school administration and that your role is not to get involved with such issues. In regards to meeting special needs in their family it would be prudent to discuss those needs with the school so that they can offer some guidance or direction.
- Some suggested areas of interaction would be for you (or your family) to engage with your student in regular school activities (sporting events, Christmas Program, Black History Program etc.). In addition we have witnessed success when mentors have exposed students to college opportunities (i.e. taking them to their alma mater) and/or bringing them to their workplace and showing them the nuances of their job.
|
