Meet a volunteer: Patricia Toomey
Every Wednesday in Lori Brook’s 3rd grade classroom begins with eager faces and earnest questioning: “Is Ms. Patti coming today?” “When is Ms. Patti going to get here?”
Ms. Patti – volunteer Patricia Toomey – has been volunteering with 3rd graders at Dr. George Washington Carver Elementary for two years, committing over 150 hours of service to students there. She helps students both individually and in small groups with reading comprehension, writing workshops, and math activities. She brings a snack each week to share with the students.
In working with students, Patti always takes the time to talk with students about themselves, sharing insights with Brook when it might help her to understand what her students are going through in a given day, week, or year. Patti also helps Brook to brainstorm ideas for increasing student collaboration in the classroom.
When not working directly with students, Patti staples homework, checks reading logs, or assists other school staff who need her help. According to Brook, everyone at the school has come to know Patti’s calm and caring demeanor. Patti is “flexible and spontaneous,” willing to go wherever and do whatever is needed.
Brook says, “Patti is an exceptional volunteer and deserves recognition for her time and energy, although I know she would say, ‘Everyone should give back this way if they can.’”
