Common Questions for First Mates/Room Parents

WHAT IS A FIRST MATE?

A First Mate plays an integral part within the classroom, the teacher, and our school. The classroom facilitation you provide as a room parent can take many different forms and can require anything from a minor volunteer commitment shared with other parents to a large responsibility. Our school, our teachers, and our kids need our First Mates!

WHAT ARE MY RESPONSIBILITIES?

• Vary from teacher and grade

• Meet with teacher to discuss their needs and your role in the classroom

• Have teacher/ associate fill out 'All About Me' form

• Send letter to all parents to collect contact information of all parents within the classroom. Ask your teacher if they have already done this.

• Attend and organize activities for teacher ie. Storybook Parade, Johnny Appleseed, Tea Party, etc..

• Meet and communicate with other room parents

• Call or email parents to obtain donations of supplies for classroom and events.

• Collect donations for and purchase gifts for teacher and associate for special occassions, holidays, birthdays, teacher appreciation week, etc..

• Recruit classroom volunteers for events

• Send out reminders via email, letter, or text about upcoming events, field trips, fundraising/donations

• Act as a resource for your class parents

• Liasion between your class and PTA

ARE THERE RESOURCES FOR FIRST MATES?

Absolutely! If you have any questions regarding your role as a First Mate, contact your child's teacher, PTA, or fellow room parents.

HOW CAN WE MEET FELLOW FIRST MATES?

At the beginning of each school year, your PTA will coordinate a meeting just for the First Mates. This meeting will go over the responsibilities as well as, provide an open forum for questions. This meeting is a great way to introduce yourself and meet fellow First Mates.