-
Current Opportunities:
Early Literacy (K-3rd Grade) Employee Volunteer Program
Literacy rates are dropping nationwide, including in DPS, and our youngest students need extra support. The Early Literacy (K-3rd Grade) Employee Volunteer Program, coordinated by the FACE Volunteer Services team, aims to support K-3rd grade literacy efforts with students scoring Significantly Below Grade Level (SBGL) on mid-year READ assessments at specific schools.
This pilot program is seeking Central Office team members to volunteer from April to June. DPS is allowing non-school-based staff to volunteer up to four hours a month in schools with supervisor approval.
Volunteers will be available to read aloud to students, engage them in listening comprehension and model fluent reading. Literacy Volunteers - Best Practices in Read Alouds is available as a foundation for our volunteers as some may not be familiar with Early Literacy. Volunteers may be used during Walk to Read time, lunch/recess, before or after school, etc.
If you are interested in making a direct positive impact on a student’s learning, please complete this form.DPS CARES (Expected to relaunch Fall 2024)
Eligibility
Denver Public Schools recognizes the importance of creating opportunities for non-school-based educators to connect to our students and all the great things that happen in our schools every day. This connection is important as we continue strengthening the district and inspiring each educator to live the DPS Shared Core Values of Students First, Collaboration, and Fun.
DPS CARES Employee Volunteer program helps us generate excitement for making a difference in the life of a student, increase employee engagement, and connect our non-school-based educators directly to our students.
Educators choose the volunteer opportunity that best fits their interests. Educators may choose to participate individually or as a team.
When can I start DPS CARES?
Enrollment in the program is open year-round. Most volunteers will select their choices in August and begin working with DPS students in September.
Where is this taking place?
We have identified partner organizations and in-school opportunities. Volunteer opportunities can be found in the volunteer opportunities directory. In addition, volunteers may enroll to only volunteer for special events aka Do In A Day volunteering.
What are the volunteer roles?
- Tutors
- Mentors
- Classroom Assistants
- Breakfast Buddies
- Playground Assistants
- Chess Club Helpers
- Running buddy
- Special Event Volunteers for Do In-A-Day Events
Will I be reimbursed for mileage expenses?
You will not be reimbursed for mileage expenses for travel to or from the site at which you are volunteering.
Do I need approval from my supervisor?
Volunteering through DPS CARES is solely at the discretion of you and your supervisor. Supervisor approval must be obtained before you submit your CARES employee volunteer form and select volunteer opportunities.
What about my other work priorities?
Volunteer time must not conflict with work-related responsibilities or other operations of the department; cause you (if you are a non-exempt employee) to exceed 40 hours per week when combined with your regular work hours, create a need for overtime pay, or cause conflict with other employee work schedules.
DPS reserves the right to amend the eligibility requirements or terminate DPS CARES at any time without prior notice.
DPS also reserves the right to revoke any employee’s approval for any reason, including if an employee is misusing the opportunities or creating operational difficulties.
