The first day of school can be filled with mixed emotions. To help soothe the nerves of new students and parents and welcome returning students on August 7, Volunteers In Public Schools (VIPS) dispatched volunteers called First Day Helpers to schools.

Thirty-one First Day Helpers served in the following (mostly elementary) schools: Delmont, Dufrocq, Glen Oaks Park, Howell Park, Jefferson Terrace, La Belle Aire, Magnolia Woods, Merrydale, Park Forest, Westminster, Wildwood and Southeast Middle. School principals put volunteers to work greeting students, escorting students from the bus to the cafeteria or classroom, directing students to the correct class, answering the phones and distributing bus information. 

"The volunteers were extremely helpful. It was great having them, and they were excellent helpers," said Park Forest Elementary School Principal Mary Jane Clark. “ I'll definitely ask for their assistance again next year.”

Shea Firnberg, a First Day Helper at Merrydale Elementary, enjoyed her experience. “Our efforts were not only acknowledged but seemed to be very much appreciated," she said. "The principal was thrilled she had so many volunteers, and several of the teachers expressed their appreciation. I plan on volunteering for this duty next year, too."

VIPS works to foster student success for every child in East Baton Rouge Parish public schools by building support for public education.