The WalkAbout Program at Kirkland Middle School is a PTSA sponsored, school supported, parent staffed program that provides a positive adult presence on campus during peak traffic times. The additional adult presence discourages inappropriate behavior allowing students to feel safe. It also gives parents the opportunity to volunteer in an area that directly impacts their student’s safety and gives them an additional connection to a big part of their student’s day.

WalkAbout receives strong administrative support from KiMS Teachers and Staff!

THINGS TO KNOW:

1. Get started by reviewing the WalkAbout Overview & Guidelines
2. All parent volunteers must be LWSD Approved and provide proof of vaccination. Review the Volunteering Requirements for LWSD for further details, and complete the LWSD Volunteer Application if needed.
3. Sign-up to Volunteer. An overview of what to do, what to know, and what not to do will be sent to you upon receipt of your volunteer sign-up!
4. Show up with a smile! :)
5. Don’t forget to submit your Volunteer Matching Hours request to your employer if they provide this benefit. More information is available here.
6. Questions? Contact walkabout@kirklandptsa.org
7. THANK YOU! We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who have participated in KIMS’ WalkAbout Program. We are so lucky to have such dedicated, positive, enthusiastic volunteers.

WALKABOUT SHIFTS

BEFORE SCHOOL
8:15-8:35 AM

DURING LUNCH

Mon., Tues., Thurs., Fri.:

Group A: 11:50-12:20 PM

Group B: 12:45-1:15 PM

Weds.:

Group A: 10:50-11:20 AM

Group B: 11:35-12:05 PM

Sign Up to Volunteer

WALKABOUT BASICS:

• Engage students with smiles and conversation; Be present.
• Encourage students to be in the right place at the right time.
• Acknowledge students who are by themselves with a ‘hello;’ a friendly word can mean the world.
• Move toward loud groups; An adult’s physical presence will often deter most unwanted behaviors.
• Discourage inappropriate behavior (including running and horseplay); Redirect behavior in a positive manner – avoid confrontation and/or power struggles.
• Directly engage school staff when enforcement of rules is required, or the need to address attitude problems with students arises. Direct students to the office for discipline.
• Trust your instincts; Do not hesitate to mention a concern, large or small, to school staff.
• Maintain safe physical interactions and verbal communication with students; Middle school students are not always able to interpret sarcasm or innuendo.
• Please do not use this time to talk to teachers or administrators about your student or school issues. Schedule an appointment separately.

GENERAL KIMS VOLUNTEER INFORMATION

• Always sign-in AND sign-out with the office.
• Model behaviors the students are asked to follow
• Remember to observe student confidentiality inside and outside school.

WALKABOUT ROUTINE:

Walkabout Checklist

1. Arrive 5 minutes ahead of volunteer start time and check-in at the front office.
2. Pick up a WalkAbout Volunteer Badge & Clipboard. Review information provided.
3. Circulate around the front of the school where students gather before school and during lunch.
4. Communicate with appropriate personnel if a situation occurs.
5. Have fun and enjoy yourself and the kids!
6. When finished return the lanyard and clipboard to the office and be sure to Sign-Out.

THANK YOU!

We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the volunteers who have participated in KIMS’ Walkabout Program. We are so lucky to have such dedicated, positive, enthusiastic volunteers.