Volunteer FAQ’s and answers…

Q: Our family is new to Donaldson Elementary. Can we still help?

A: Absolutely! Volunteering with the HSA is a great way to meet other families. Please be sure you have your clearances on file in the Donaldson Office. 

Q: Are children allowed to come with me when I volunteer?

A: Shifts for the Family Fun Events would allow children to volunteer with you (game and activity stations are a great way to involve your children). Volunteering within the classroom or library can be more challenging for very young children. However, the School Store, Book Fairs, and Holiday Shop may be viable options. If you have specific questions about whether or not to bring your child, please contact us at donaldsonptawa@gmail.com 

Q: Why are clearances required?

A: For the safety and security of all of our students, volunteer clearances are required to volunteer during the school day. All volunteers will need to bring their photo ID and clearances/paperwork with them the day they volunteer if the copies are not already on file in the Donaldson office. 

Q: How do I get clearances to volunteer?

A: Visit the Donaldson site for more information and to find links to the required forms. Volunteer clearances are free and are valid for five years. 

Q: How do I know when help is needed?  

A: We will include announcements about active signup needs in our PTA communications.  All PTA signups are done via Membership Toolkit. Room Parents will also periodically communicate volunteer needs to classroom parents.  

Q: I have kid-free hours during the week to volunteer. Are there opportunities to come into the school?  

A: Yes! If you help during the day, you will need to have your clearances on file in the school office. We have opportunities at our Holiday Shop, Book Fairs, Library and more.

Q:  It’s difficult for me to help in the school during the day. Is there anything I can do from home?

A: Yes! We need parent volunteers to help plan our Family Fun Events (food, decorations, entertainment, advertising) or you can work a shift at a station during the event. We also usually need help with fundraisers such as planning Dining Out events, soliciting donations from local businesses for our Raffle Baskets, writing grants. 

Q: I would like to attend the PTA meetings, but evenings are tough for me to get out. How can I stay aware of what is discussed at the meetings? 

A: We understand!  The meeting minutes are posted on the website for viewing by PTA members after they are finalized for each meeting.

Q: I just don’t have the time to commit this year.  Can I make a monetary donation instead of volunteering?

A: YES!  Make donations via the Membership Toolkit Store.  The Donaldson PTA is a non-profit 

501 ( c)3, so donations are tax-deductible.