April 17-21 is a time to honor volunteers in our public schools. The Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE) strives to support all students and to deliver the very best education. A vital piece of that support is our volunteers and partners in all areas of service.
Volunteers provide support to our schools and districts, and create positive educational experiences for our students in communities throughout Santa Clara County. Our mission states, the SCCOE is committed to serving, inspiring, and promoting public school success, and our public school volunteers embody this mission. Our volunteers do so much that I couldn't begin to list everything here, which is why we want to be sure to take this opportunity to celebrate and give thanks to all who offer their time and efforts, and talents to our schools year-round.
There are abundant opportunities to support students in Santa Clara County, and it is our desire that the experiences of our volunteers at our many SCCOE sites are both exciting and rewarding. Each year, the SCCOE honors a Volunteer of the Year to recognize individuals and organizations who show outstanding dedication to our students and schools. I encourage those who want to get involved to contact your local public school to learn more about volunteer opportunities.
A great example will occur on April 28, when over 200 community volunteers will build a new adaptive playground at Hester School. This one-day-blitz build supports the SCCOE goal to improve student equity and access to high quality education. Hester School serves students with disabilities, as well as students who are medically fragile, and the addition of this playground will improve access to play, which allows children to develop a variety of physical, cognitive and emotional skills. This event is organized by KaBOOM! and supported by Target, whose employees volunteer, Hester School, and members of the community.
To all volunteers, we thank you again for your support.
Jon Gundry, Santa Clara County Superintendent of Schools