Volunteers in Northampton Schools
OUR MISSION
Our mission is to provide volunteers in all of Northampton’s public schools. The purpose of volunteer involvement in the schools is to supplement and enrich the curriculum offerings at the direction of the professional staff. The volunteer participation of parents and community members is widely recognized to be a significant factor in the quality of education.
Categories
Regular
Volunteers
These are dedicated community members who commit to a regular schedule weekly, biweekly, or throughout the year. They may assist in classrooms, libraries, offices, or special programs, building strong relationships with students and staff through their ongoing presence.
Occasional Volunteers
These are parents, family members, or community members who volunteer for special occasions. They offer enrichment in a specific area and may also participate in other activities. Occasional Volunteers support for a day or a particular event — such as field trips or field days — providing valuable support when it’s most needed.
Teachers & Staff
It starts with a teacher idea. These are the educators and school staff who know where extra support can make a difference. They submit a Teacher Request Form when they need a volunteer or student teacher in their classroom or program. VINS works with them to match the right person to the right role.
Student Teachers & Observation
These are college or university students studying education. They complete required observation hours or practicum placements in Northampton’s public schools. They work alongside experienced teachers to gain real classroom experience and prepare for their future teaching careers.
Getting Started with VINS
Step 1: Figure Out Your Role
First, decide your role: you may be a Student Teacher or choose to volunteer as an Occasional Volunteer or a Regular Volunteer.
Note for Student Teachers
Before starting, you must complete fingerprinting with the School District office.
Step 2: Review & Complete the Forms
Download the required forms: Volunteer Application (if needed), CORI Form, and Volunteer Release Form. Fill them out completely.
Step 3: Submit Your Forms
Bring your completed forms and a copy of your ID to any school that’s most convenient for you, or email them to vinsvolunteer@gmail.com.
Step 4: Wait for CORI Clearance & Next Steps
Once your CORI check is complete and your forms are reviewed, VINS will contact you directly. We’ll let you know if any additional information is needed, confirm your placement, and share what to expect next — including when and where to start, who you’ll connect with at the school, and any orientation or training details. We’re here to make sure you feel ready and supported before you begin!
Forms
You can complete this form online or download a copy to fill out and email to us.
Volunteer Placements
At VINS, volunteers are matched with placements that best fit their interests, skills, and availability. Whether you’d like to help in a classroom, assist in the library or office, tutor students, or support special events and field trips, there’s a role for you. Each placement helps strengthen our schools by providing teachers and staff with extra hands and students with extra support
Classroom Support
Volunteers provide direct help inside the classroom by assisting teachers with daily lessons, preparing materials, working with small groups, listening to students read, or giving extra one-on-one attention to students who need additional support. Their presence helps teachers focus on delivering lessons while ensuring every student gets the help they need.
Library & Office Assistance
Our work extends beyond individual impact, creating a ripple effect that enriches communities and contributes to a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Special Events & Field Trips
Some volunteers participate only on special days—such as field trips, field days, classroom celebrations, or school performances. They assist with organizing activities and make sure students are safe and supported during these events.
Student Teachers & University Observation
Many local college and university students complete observation or practicum hours as part of their teacher training. These student teachers spend time in Northampton classrooms learning directly from professional educators, assisting with lessons, and gaining valuable hands-on experience. Whether observing for a few hours each week or completing a full student teaching placement, they play an important role in supporting students and teachers while building their own skills for future teaching careers.
OUR SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY
IMPACTFUL STORIES
One of the best parts of volunteering is watching kids use their imagination, think creatively, and enjoy the experience.
Vins volunteer
Upcoming Events
Vins Dog showSat, Mar 07Northampton
