The Milan News-Leader
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More volunteers needed to help in the office at Milan High School
New legislation prohibits school credit for students working as aides
By Elyssa Pearlstein, Special Writer
PUBLISHED: December 4, 2008
Milan parents are being asked to step up to the plate after changes made by the state that prohibit students from working as office assistants for school credit.
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In the past, Milan High School students could elect to serve as office assistants for class credit during one of their course periods. Despite an opportunity to give students hands-on experience working in an office environment, the recently passed legislation puts an end to the practice.
What draws the ire of some school officials is that they weren't consulted about its value to students.
Now Milan High School parents are being asked to volunteer in the school office to help the district save money it can't afford to spend to hire additional help.
School officials say parents often volunteer in other capacities, including selling tickets at football games and performing arts events. Volunteering to be an office assistant during the school day can be rewarding in its own way, said Leanna Soltis, Milan High School's assistant principal.
Office assistants generally help keep track of attendance, answer phones, issue passes, monitor the hallways and help other school affairs, she said.
"There's this other layer of support in the community (for the school)," Soltis said.
Such community reinforcement can prove valuable.
"You end up with parents representing a variety of social circles throughout the school," Soltice said.
Familiar faces help give a warm feeling to students as they trek through the halls in between classes, she said. Moreover, community volunteers grant students an opportunity to meet adults with experience in an assortment of careers.
The amount of time parents volunteer is flexible and usually averages between four and 12 hours each week. No specific requirements or formal training are required other than a routine background check. Interested parents should contact Soltis at 439-5016.
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