Last month, we had the opportunity to hear about the incredible work happening in our local schools. As a part of our mission to connect the church to the community and the community to the church, we've been investing in our school staff as they invest their time and talents into the next generation.
Did You Know?
According to a report released by the National Center for Educational Statistics in 2021, the average teacher will spend nearly $459 on classroom supplies out-of-pocket without reimbursement. Given that the average teacher salary in Georgia is $59,253 (indeed.com), which is about $4,937 per month, that $459 paid out-of-pocket makes up a not unsubstantial percentage of their monthly paycheck.
How We're Stepping In
Last year, we tried something new — an adopt a teacher program. A volunteer would be assigned a teacher for the school year and, once a month, would show up in the life of their teacher once a month. Whether it was a word of encouragement, a text, an email, or even a treat — they showed up and let their teacher know that they are not alone.
This year, after seeing the incredible impact this program is having on teachers, we've officially launched this as part of our school engagement initiatives. When we invited teachers to Fill Their Cup back in July, we gave each of them an opportunity to sign up to be "adopted" this school year.
This year, after seeing the incredible impact this program is having on teachers, we've officially launched this as part of our school engagement initiatives. When we invited teachers to Fill Their Cup back in July, we gave each of them an opportunity to sign up to be "adopted" this school year.
How You Can Help
We need YOUR help to adopt our teachers! This year, we had over 80 teachers sign up for adoption. 30 teachers have already been adopted, but we still have another 50 waiting to be paired with their Team LV encourager.
What Volunteering Looks Like
We're asking each encourager to show up for their teacher at least once a month. It can be as simple as a quick text or call to offer some encouragement, or as much as helping them restock school supplies! The purpose of this program is to pair teachers with someone who will care, listen, and encourage them throughout the school year.
What Volunteering Looks Like
We're asking each encourager to show up for their teacher at least once a month. It can be as simple as a quick text or call to offer some encouragement, or as much as helping them restock school supplies! The purpose of this program is to pair teachers with someone who will care, listen, and encourage them throughout the school year.
You will be paired with a teacher after you sign up. If you have any questions in the meantime, you can reach out to Audrey Goodwin for more information about our Adopt a Teacher program.
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