New Volunteers

New to Volunteering?

Art History LogoWelcome! Thank you for joining us as we bring art history and cultural art lessons, along with some great hands-on projects into elementary classrooms. Our volunteers tell us they feel like superstars when they roll the art cart into the classroom, because students and teachers are excited to see them!

Let's get started:

  • Complete the school district and Art Heritage volunteer forms. Include your email address so you can be informed of changes, updates and special events.
  • Get acquainted with the Art Heritage coordinator at your school. He/she can help you learn where the supplies are kept, where to sign in, how to use the calendar to schedule your class time and materials use.
  • Talk with the classroom teacher (bring your calendar!) and set up your schedule. Make sure the time you agree upon is after the training date so your supplies and lesson will be available.
  • According to D51 Schools, Board of Education policy (IJOC) volunteers are to be under the direct supervision of a certified staff member. The teacher is expected to remain in the classroom during your Art Heritage presentation. The teacher is responsible for classroom management, you are responsible for the delivery of a great lesson!
  • Attend Art Heritage training workshops. The trainings are essential for providing you a better understanding of how the program works. The schedule for your school's group is located here.
  • Prepare for the lesson prior to teaching in the classroom. Ensure supplies are available, prepare needed materials (cut paper, put paint into smaller containers, etc.) Coordinate with your classroom partner as to how each will contribute to the lesson.
  • Arrive on time to the classroom and complete the lesson in the allotted time frame.
  • Organize students to clean up the classroom and gather art supplies (including the cd or video) after each lesson.
  • Return art cart to storage and organize the cart for use by other volunteers.
  • Coordinate display of art projects with teachers, which may include:
    • laminating artwork
    • labeling artwork with student information
    • hanging artwork in hallways or classroom (blue painters tape works best)
  • If there is a need to reproduce copies of the handout, please talk with the school coordinator.

Other information:

  • Sign in and out at front desk, and remember to wear your badge.
  • Hallway doors may be locked, ask at the front desk for entrance.
  • Please do not bring small children to your presentation; the students need your undivided attention.
  • Ask where to store your personal belongings (coat, purse, etc.)

Fire Drill

Fire Alarm:

  • If in a classroom when a fire alarm is activated, follow teacher's instructions
  • If in any other location (workroom, hallway, etc.) exit building through nearest exit and meet at designated area of school grounds
  • You will be told when you may return to the building.

School Lock Down:

  • If in a classroom, follow teacher/student instructions
  • If in the workroom or other location, close door
  • If in hallway, go to nearest classroom
  • You will be told when it is "all clear"