How Volunteers Enrich Education In Iron County Schools

As National School Volunteer Week is observed across the country, local educators and community members are highlighting the meaningful role volunteers play in supporting students and schools throughout Iron County.

Speaking on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Melinda Huntsman, assistant principal at Enoch Elementary, emphasized just how essential volunteers are to daily operations and long-term success. “Such a huge impact. They are our lifeline and our lifeblood to keep our programs moving along and to help us in every way that we need to achieve our goals and accomplish the things that we need to accomplish,” Huntsman said during the broadcast.

Reeves, Huntsman, Friedman in studio - Dr.T /Canva Design

Huntsman noted that volunteers consistently return, motivated not by compensation but by the opportunity to witness student growth. “They get to see the kids learn and grow, and again, to see our school accomplish the goals that we have set for the year,” she said.

Volunteers Have A Personal Connection

For Rosa Friedman, a volunteer at South Preschool, that connection is deeply personal. While she works as a school bus driver for the district, she dedicates her free time to helping in the classroom, where her grandchildren attend. “I’ve just always had a heart for volunteering. It’s just wonderful to see the children over and over. They look forward to seeing me,” Friedman said. She added that the experience extends beyond her own family. “I told the teachers that I would be there for all the children… it’s wonderful to see their smiles, see them understanding something, helping them over that hurdle.”

Delbert Reeves, a volunteer at Fiddler’s Canyon Elementary and part of the Watch D.O.G.S. program, described the simple but powerful impact of showing up each day. “I just want to put a smile on that kid’s face before he starts the day,” Reeves said. “The payment is the kid, watching their smile and their growth. That’s payment enough.”

CDC via Unsplash

Reeves also volunteers in a fifth-grade classroom, where he finds fulfillment in helping students gain confidence. “I love watching when the light bulb goes on,” he said.

Huntsman pointed out that while schools receive financial resources, volunteers provide something equally valuable: time and personal connection. “From the most tiny need to a huge need, we have people there that help us like an invisible army to carry us through,” she said.

Those interested in volunteering can apply through the Iron County School District or contact their local school. As Huntsman put it, “We can put everyone to work.”