WEST LANE HONORS ITS VOLUNTEERS

West Lane Principal Stan Siler spoke to students during the school's recent salute to its volunteer workers.

Dr. T. Wayne Lewis, president of the Jackson R-2 Board of Education, visited with volunteers.

More than 200 volunteers have helped out at Jackson's West Lane Elementary during the 1999-2000 school year.

About 90 of those attended a recent luncheon to honor their efforts. Principal Stan Siler and PTO President Julie Mouser spoke briefly and several students read thank you notes and cards to the volunteers.

"It's a special day to get to set wherever they want," Siler said. "They're really excited to see parents coming."

Parents comprise a large number of the 200 or more volunteers.

Among the programs volunteers helped with was the PALS (Parents Always Love Students) group, RAVE reading groups, Rainbows (grief support), the Milk & Cookie Club, room parents, and more.

The 200-plus volunteers helped with the 440 students (grades 4-5) at West Lane. Some volunteer up to three days a week, others just once or twice a year.

Siler noted that the volunteers were "all really appreciated."