Most people in the room don’t expect recognition. The JISD Substitute and Volunteer of the Year celebration is meant to change that, at least for a morning. It brings attention to the people who quietly keep campuses running, often stepping in wherever they are needed and doing the work without expecting much in return.
Each campus selected one substitute and one volunteer to honor as their Volunteer and Substitute of the Year. While their roles vary, their impact is felt across the entire campus.
Superintendent Dr. Jacklich spoke to that impact, pointing out that their work reaches beyond the tasks they take on each day.
“You made not only us better as a school district, but you touched the lives of our students in a much more positive way,” he said. “So from the bottom of our heart, all of us in the administration, our Board of Trustees, and our entire school district, please accept our sincere appreciation for everything that you do.”
Board of Trustee Suzanne Kenoyer focused on how much schools depend on that kind of support. She said many of the moments that make campuses feel welcoming and complete would not happen without volunteers, whether they are helping with events or supporting staff in smaller, less visible ways.
She also highlighted substitute teachers, who step into classrooms when teachers are out and make sure learning continues.
To explain their role, Kenoyer compared the school community to a three legged stool. Students and staff are two of the legs, she said, but substitutes and volunteers are the third. Without that third leg, the stool would not stand.
Thank you to our honorees and all of our substitute teachers and volunteers for supporting our students and campuses. Our schools and district are better because of your service and dedication.