Mentor opportunities in Shoreline Schools: make a difference in a child's life

There’s more to the school day than the usual math, reading and recess for some students. They’re getting extra support thanks to volunteer mentors. 

A mentor and student at Echo Lake elementary

As a mentor, a person meets once a week with a student for some one-on-one time. The volunteer and child spend time together—whether it’s playing a game, talking or working on a special activity. Building this kind of relationship and friendship over weeks and months is valuable to both student and mentor.

Isis Charest signed on to be a mentor at Meridian Park elementary this past year because her grandchildren live far away and she felt this was a great way to connect with kids the same age. Mrs. Charest says it’s been a rewarding experience for her--it makes her feel good watching her young student enjoy their time together, for him to have someone to play games with and seeing him laugh.

Parkwood elementary family advocate, Mary Servais, coordinates that school’s mentoring program. She says the impact these one-on-one relationships have on a child’s school life is huge. It’s a chance to give kids individual attention they may not be getting at home.

Mrs. Servais says, “The adults get as much out of the relationship as the kids, especially if there aren’t a lot of kids in their lives.”

A mentor and student at Parkwood Elementary

Being a mentor requires no special training, but a willingness to commit to about an hour at least once a week for the school year. Schools will provide resources and guidance. 

If you are interested in learning more about volunteering as a mentor or in another way with Shoreline Public Schools contact Power of One Volunteer coordinator, Karen Kessinger, by phone, 206-365-1169, or email.

Sponsored by the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center, Power of One matches volunteers with schools in the Shoreline school district.

About Power of One Senior Volunteer Program

The program started in 1996 and is a partnership of the Shoreline-Lake Forest Park Senior Center and Shoreline Public Schools and supported by the Shoreline Public Schools Foundation. 

During the 2010-11 school year, a core of 59 Power of One Volunteers put in nearly 4,000 hours of time at Shoreline schools and programs.

The purpose of the Power of One Volunteer Program is to assist the Shoreline Schools to achieve excellent education for all students. We believe as caring adults we can assist all students to become successful learners.