Canyons District volunteers are legion, numbering in excess of 12,000 in any given year. They’re also incredibly patient, as we’ve had to limit visitors to our campuses this year in support of health and safety protocols.
But with vaccination rates picking up, and the broadening availability of rapid COVID-19 testing, we are now able to safely welcome parents, grandparents, and other helpers back into our classrooms — and it couldn’t happen at a more opportune time. As we look to finish the year strong, and make the most out of the last few months of instructional time, our teachers could use the extra hands and our students could use the extra encouragement.
Here to explain the how’s and why’s behind our call for community helpers are Canyons Superintendent Dr. Rick Robins, our Public Engagement Coordinator Susan Edwards, and Tonya Rhodes, Region 17 Director for the PTA.
“We’re at that point where, by taking the right precautions, it’s safe. And the help is needed,” said Canyons Superintendent Dr. Rick Robins. “One of the great strengths of Canyons District has been having parents and volunteers in our buildings working with our students, and I’m absolutely thrilled to be welcoming them back.”
Schools are in special need of classroom helpers to mentor and tutor students. Many are also in the planning stages for spring fundraising efforts and year-end celebrations, and school Parent Teacher Associations are now building their PTA Boards, said Region 17 PTA Director Tonya Rhodes. “This is an excellent time to be thinking about the ways you want to be involved for the next school year.”
In accordance with state law, all Canyons District volunteers must submit a Volunteer Application, which can be found on the District’s website and completed by following the prompts. Because it can take up to 72 hours for applications to be processed, it’s recommended that prospective volunteers apply well in advance of their scheduled volunteer shift.
This year, in line with Utah Department of Health guidelines, volunteers will also be asked to show proof that they’ve been inoculated against COVID-19, or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test. Those who intend to volunteer regularly or over a long period of time will need to test every 14 calendar days.
“They can bring their vaccination card or test results to the Main Office of their child’s school,” said Canyons Public Engagement Coordinator Susan Edwards.
As a courtesy, the District is opening its free drive-thru COVID testing to volunteers. Parents can pick up a voucher from their child’s school, register at this link and line up inside their vehicle outside the north entrance of the District Office parking garage (9361 S. 300 East in Sandy) at any of the following times and days:
- Monday, 6:30 – 8:30 a.m.
- Wednesday, 3 – 5 p.m.
- Friday, 8 – 10 a.m.
More information about volunteering can be found on the Canyons Education Foundation website.
Questions? Please call the Canyons District Education Foundation at: 801-826-5171.
