Jefferson Elementary School welcomed some volunteers on MLK day.

By Reneh Gambrel

Walking into Jefferson Elementary to volunteer for MLK Day, I had no idea what to expect.

I had not been in the school for eight years, so one can imagine my confusion when viewing my surroundings. Luckily for me, the front office was the first thing in sight, and I was able to receive my assigned classroom quickly. I was assigned to Mrs. Chaney, a fourth grade teacher right across the hall.

When I walked into the classroom, I was greeted by a nice, friendly woman that automatically set me to work. As I organized some things for Mrs. Chaney, she told me a few things about what the class would be doing that day. It was slightly overwhelming when twenty or so fourth graders entered the classroom, but at least I had an idea of what I would be doing.

The children were automatically full of questions. “Why are you here? How long will you be here? Do you get to miss all day of school?” I tried to answer their questions as quickly as possible while coming off as professional. The students were to refer to me as Miss Reneh, which was new for me. Mrs. Chaney had them do a worksheet on MLK Day, and I walked around doing my best to help out. The students made it known the second they needed help, which tends to be different in high school. I was struck by how different people are when they are eleven and when they are fourteen.

As the day progressed, I was helping out in every way I possibly could. From grading spelling tests to helping students with fractions, I was busy. I had a new appreciation for what teachers do every school day, especially when trying to keep up with children who are full of energy. However, it did not sway my interest in entering the education field. I realized that I would be okay with that kind of excitement in a classroom every day. The experience was a beneficial one, and I am now more sure than ever about what I would like to do with my life.

Volunteering on MLK day for Key Club can be rewarding in many ways. Whether one is helping out a single person or a whole community of people, giving back feels good. I am happy that I was able to not only help out Mrs. Chaney, but also help myself realize how my future could play out. I cannot wait to see how next year’s MLK day goes.