After School Volunteers - SPARKS Program

Volunteer Mentors For After School Program

After School Volunteers SPARKS is an after school, neighborhood based program for elementary and middle school age students provided by Orono School District and coordinated by the Community Education department. The goal is to provide another intervention that provides extra time and support to help our district close the achievement and opportunity gap for kids who have academic needs. A licensed teacher, the site coordinator and community mentors work to create connections, provide academic support, teach/coach organizational skills and encourage students.

Volunteer mentors connect with students through reading, homework, games and enrichment activities after school. The role of the volunteer is to be a caring adult in the lives of students and to encourage them. The time commitment is 1-4 hours per week after school Monday-Thursday. Volunteers work one-on-one or in small groups with elementary or middle school students.

Qualifications:

• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Enjoy working with youth
• Self-directed, flexible and patient
• Ability to work effectively with youth from diverse backgrounds
• High School student or older
• A clear background check is required

Availability: 1-4 hours per week, 3-5 pm, M-Th

Working Conditions: Program held at a community location two days a week.