We have a chairperson orientation event- where anyone that has signed up to chair event comes to this one hour session, we show everyone where the PTO room is, go over forms that must be filled out, answer questions and introduce everyone--
Each year there is some new guideline from the school district to go over- so it's good to keep everyone on the same page.
We have light refreshments as well.
As far as volunteer orientation-- we host an ice cream social a week before school starts- the kids find out who their teacher is and have sign up sheets for volunteers, displays of events we've done in the past-- and we're there to answer any questions someone might have.
We aren't doing an orientation but there is a school open house the day before school starts. The kids are encouraged to bring their supplies so we are guaranteed a good turnout lol! We're having a "scavenger hunt" that ends in the cafeteria with refreshments. It's a win-win because people follow a path to learn about the school and you get a chance to engage parents. Plus, it helps teachers give all the kids a minute or 2 of personal attention if everyone is encouraged to follow the scavenger hunt.
Does anyone host a volunteer orientation at the beginning of the school year? I was wondering if this might help the volunteer get to know each other and us the PTA board. Maybe they would be more likely to help if they knew what we were planning and what amount of time we are asking them to commit to. Just a thought.
