Here at HOME WORKS!, volunteers are vital to helping our school-based family events run smoothly so teachers can focus on building trusting relationships with students’ families. In recognition of the many contributions of volunteers, we are celebrating with a spotlight of HOME WORKS! Volunteer, Misty Langston. Read on to learn about how Misty has been inspired to join the Family Engagement movement!
What motivates you to volunteer?
Volunteering has always been a part of my life. I grew up in a family that deeply valued education and public service, which laid the foundation for my lifelong commitment to helping others. As a retired teacher, I understand the critical role the strong connection between home and school plays in a child’s education. That’s why, after retiring from my teaching career in Boonville, I felt it was important to stay involved in my community by volunteering at local schools.
What specifically motivates you to volunteer with HOME WORKS!?
My journey with HOME WORKS! began through my daughter, Jodie Langston Chrislaw. She was a First Grade teacher at a HOME WORKS! school in Boonville – Hannah Cole Primary School – and shared her enthusiasm for the program with me. I was immediately drawn to HOME WORKS! because of its focus on family engagement through events like Family Dinners and Parent-Teacher Workshops. These events are key in fostering at-home learning, which is something I’m passionate about. As a teacher, I spent many years coordinating Family Math Nights where families came together to learn and then take home resources to improve their children’s math skills. I saw firsthand how this approach benefited students, and I knew HOME WORKS! was making a real impact.
After retiring from teaching, I became involved with the Boonville Women’s Club, a local nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives of women and children in our community. That’s when I reconnected with Leslie Reardon, a former colleague and HOME WORKS! Program Leader, who invited me to volunteer. The Boonville Women’s Club has been a great supporter of HOME WORKS!, and I’ve been excited to help whenever volunteers are needed at their events.
What have you enjoyed the most about volunteering at HOME WORKS!?
One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering with HOME WORKS! is working alongside other members of the Boonville Women’s Club. We enjoy socializing while supporting school events, and it feels good knowing our efforts help free up teachers and staff to build meaningful relationships with families. It’s especially fulfilling to volunteer at David Barton Elementary School, where I spent nearly 40 years of my teaching career. I love seeing the positive changes in the school and taking in the student work displayed around the building. What’s even more special is seeing former students – now parents themselves – attending events with their children. It’s amazing to be a part of a program that’s making a lasting difference in the lives of families in our community.
What would you say to someone thinking of becoming a HOME WORKS! volunteer?
I believe it truly takes a village to raise a child, and I’m proud to be a small part of that village here in Boonville. Volunteering with HOME WORKS! has given me a meaningful way to stay connected with my community while making a real impact. If you’re considering volunteering, I’d encourage you to get involved – its’s an opportunity to be a part of something bigger and to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families.
Are you interested in becoming a HOME WORKS! Volunteer? Email [email protected] for more information.