It’s easy to become pessimistic about the state of the world and division of the community today. However, despite the white noise around us, there are steps we can all take to continue to move the world forward, to support our community, and to be part of the antidote to despair.

Becoming a volunteer in Dysart and serving our school community is a tangible action that each of us can take to help students and families, and to be part of growing a culture that embraces growth, vision, and an entrepreneurial spirit. In the words of Dr. Martin Luther King, “Everybody can be great, because anybody can serve.”

The Dysart Unified School District is seeking support from our community members to help build and grow a culture of educational excellence throughout the Northwest Valley. Dysart recognizes the expertise that is around us, the valuable experience our community holds, and the compassion and commitment to improve the lives of students and families. Volunteers help meet student needs, help facilitate learning and growth inside and out of the classroom, help support effective and efficient office teams, and lend a helping hand for our schools and programs that hugely benefit from the commitment of a volunteer.

Oftentimes in our busy lives we refrain from giving back, as time often is not friendly for our busy schedules. Volunteers do not necessarily have extra time, they just have the passion and commitment to serving others. It is the service that they provide, the giving, that brings great purpose, and makes the sacrifice of giving back to students and schools worthwhile. Our school community is excited to integrate community members into our schools and programs, and our doors remain open to those that are looking to get involved and make a difference in the lives of children and their families.

There are many ways to support our schools - in the classroom; supporting our front office staff; contributing to extracurricular activities; coaching; tutoring; or providing a countless number of services and resources for our teachers, students, and families. By committing to other students and families and supporting our educational institutions, volunteers are not just helping hands in the classroom, they are leaders. Volunteers are heroes, and they recognize the impact that one selfless act can have on an individual or an entire community.

The work of our volunteers is powerful. Anyone can join our team in Dysart by simply visiting and following the steps at www.Dysart.org/volunteer. We hope to continue to grow this leg of our school services. Dysart recognizes the positive impact volunteers have on the lives of students, and the value volunteers bring to our school community, as we all continue to foster a culture of academic excellence.

Editor’s Note: John Williams is the director of community education for the Dysart Unified School District.