The Unity of CommUNITY
Amy Shanahan, volunteer coordinator
Article by Amy Shanahan with photo by Kathy Dunker
The administration at Rocky Heights Middle School (RHMS) is excited to launch a new program called CommUNITY. Since its inception, RHMS has had a vested interest in engaging the community, and as a result, has a wonderful partnership with parents who are willing to volunteer at the school and events. However, RHMS has grown from a small community and school into almost 1,350 students. With this growth the sense of a small, focused community has transformed. The school recognizes that the most important factor in a child’s learning is their classroom teacher, but the most important element in a child’s life is their parents. With this in mind, CommUNITY is a concerted effort to make the parent community an integral part of the school’s mission.
Ernest Boyer, a University professor and writer says, “Whether a school succeeds or fails in its mission depends in no small measure on the degree of support received from the nation and from the community it serves.” Research has shown that parents can increase a child’s academic success through their involvement with schools and communities. Parents who are involved in a positive way can encourage student morale, attitudes, and academic achievement across all subject areas.
CommUNITY will be the banner over several opportunities for parent involvement this school year. The Watch DOGS program is an excellent way for dads and grandfathers of students to spend a half or a full day at the school, helping out and being a positive male role model. The new WalkAbout program is a great opportunity for moms, dads and guardians to spend an hour or two at the school during busy times. They will provide an extra adult presence on campus and have the opportunity to see what middle school is really all about! The school is also excited to launch new parent information nights. The goal of these evenings will be to provide education, information and networking to parents. In addition, the volunteer coordinator will continue to offer lots of opportunities for parent involvement to any parent who is interested.
RHMS is proud of its high academic standards and wonderful community involvement, and looks forward to making the parent community an even more integral part of the mission and success of the school. Anyone interested in volunteer opportunities, please contact Amy Shanahan, volunteer coordinator, by e-mail.
