How do I get involved in my son's school

[Short1cute1]

I'm writing to find out feed back about how to get involved in my sons school. He'll be in kindergarten this year, and I want to start out right off with him. But honestly I don't understand things like PTA and if just anyone could go to the meetings. My mom never went to our schools for anything. I want to be there for him but will feel stupid around the other moms. I'm only 25 and never finished high school myself and am scared to death for my son to take the same path as me. So any advice on how to be a good PTA mom would be great!

[krisp]

At my son's school, there are many opportunities to volunteer in the classroom, helping the kids with activities, assisting at parties, etc. If doing some of these things fits into your schedule, it will give you a chance to get to know the school and the teacher better. And if your school is like ours, they will give you many opportunities to join the PTA and participate in its doings too. Do you have a meeting with the teacher before school actually begins? No doubt he/she can give you other ideas as well! Good luck ... it's great that you want to be involved in your son's education!

[Andrew]

At my daughter's school, every class has a "Class Parent", a parent-volunteer to help coordinate class field trips, helps collect money from parents for class parties, etc.

Parents are usually welcome to help out in the cafeteria during lunch (to keep order) etc.

[Short1cute1]

I'm aware that lots of moms do those things. I remember always wanting to have my mom do them. Now that i'm the mom i'm just wondering how much involvement i'll get to have. Or if me beeing there will even make a difference to his education. As for fitting into my schedule i've been lucky enough to be able to be a stay at home mom. my daughter will be in pre school this year. so i've got lots of time lol.

[Andrew]

Short1cute1:

IMHO, there are tremendous benefits to your child when you get involved. Remember that most teachers are overworked, underpaid and in many cases, can't focus on every child enough in class to give everyone the kind of attention they need. A class parent/helper can really make the difference. I've seen it at my daughter's school, and both the teachers AND kids appreciate it.