Get involved, volunteer at your local school

In just a few weeks, Shoreline schools will open their doors, ready for thousands of students heading back to the classroom.

You can join them by becoming a Power of One Volunteer.

The Power of One program is a partnership between the Shoreline-LFP Senior Center and Shoreline Public Schools to connect people from the community to vibrant classrooms, libraries and other programs.

For some Power of One volunteers, helping at school is a family affair. 

Terry Bayless helps at her granddaughter’s school. She says, “I like seeing what happens during the school day and my granddaughter loves to see me there. We also have after-school time together each Monday. It’s our favorite day of the week!”

For students, having special one on one time and extra academic support can make a big difference. 

Shirley Fullner is a long-time Power of One volunteer at Ridgecrest Elementary. “I find that volunteering in the schools is so very rewarding when a student who is struggling looks at me with a beaming face and is so happy they have accomplished some reading skills. They feel so good about their accomplishment. I believe this is my gift and calling to work with children who need extra help.”

Teachers appreciate what Power of One volunteers bring to the classroom as well.

“My students appreciate the extra care and attention they get from our Power of One volunteers,” says Monica Holdridge, Briarcrest Elementary, “Our Power of One volunteers extend the amount of small group attention that students get during the day and add their voices to the cheering on of these students as they grow throughout the year.”

The best candidates for Power of One enjoy working with children in a school setting, are able to take direction from teachers/staff, are reliable, can commit to a regular schedule, and pass a Washington State Patrol background check.

Benefits of joining Power of One include access to free training and resources, a school district badge, and support from the volunteer coordinator, Karen Kessinger. 

She helps connect you to the classroom/ teacher/ school that best fits your interests, schedule and availability.

To schedule an interview, contact Karen by phone at 206-365-1169 or email.

Their annual Back To School Orientation is Tuesday, September 5, 9:00-11:30am at the Shoreline - LFP Senior Center, 18560 1st Ave NE #1, Shoreline 98155

The Power of One Volunteer Program started in 1996 and is a partnership of the Shoreline - Lake Forest Park Senior Center and the Shoreline school district. During the 2016-17 school year, a core of about 50 Power of One Volunteers put in nearly 3,000 hours of time at Shoreline schools and programs. The Shoreline Public Schools Foundation also supports Power of One.

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.