Set up and Break Down Tips for New Docents

If it's your first time leading the class, here are some tips for setting up and breaking down.

My number 1 tip is get to school early and be prepared.

Once at school, sign-in to the volunteer book in office. Check the sign-in log for other ATGO volunteers.

In most cases we’ll be teaching in our Tent, but if the weather isn’t cooperative (rain, high wind or heat) consider teaching in the classroom. If you want to move inside, first get permission from the teacher. Then, post a notice at the front counter, telling the volunteers where you’ll be.

Before heading out of the office, grab the keys from Rosa. You’ll need two, one for the shed‘s paddle lock and one for the gate. The keys are on blue and green lanyards hanging behind Rosa’s desk.

Check the ATGO mailbox for volunteer sign-ups and notes from teachers.

Art supplies are kept in the small gray shed in the back corner of the teacher’s parking lot, near the preschool.  

The handle for the shed is spring loaded and takes a bit of effort to open. Then when relocking it, you need to cock the spring by turning it counter clockwise.

Once at the shed, use the project’s supply list to gather supplies.

If you plan to use scratch paper, grab some from the work room, near the kindergarten classrooms, between rooms 7 and 9.  

In most cases, you’ll want a half-full bucket of water for cleanup. Hot water is available in the Janitor’s/plant manager's room, next to room 4. Cold water is available from the hose bib below the drinking fountain opposite the tent (requires the faucet key that’s on the cart).

Hopefully by now, a few assistants are starting to show up. Introduce yourself and DELEGATE. Assistants are there because they want to help. So, put them to work.  

Clean off the tables if necessary.

Set up the tripod and example boards. Make sure you have all the supplies you need up front to demonstrate the project. As a minimum, you’ll need erasable markers and an eraser/towel.

Organize the supplies. Or better yet, have the assistants do as much as possible so you can review your lesson plan.

It's important to get a couple of minutes to yourself before class to arrange your thoughts and relax.

At the end of your lesson, make sure all materials are clean, organized, and ready for the next class. If there’s a class scheduled for the following period, try to set things up as much as possible for the next docent. But keep the supplies protected from an errant handball or overly inquisitive youngster.

If there’s not another class coming, return the cart to the shed. Make sure you lock it.

Please leave the cart in an orderly fashion, just like you’d like to find it next time.

Don’t leave the keys on the cart. Take them to the office and whatever you do, DO NOT TAKE THE KEYS HOME.

Once you get home, go over the experience in your head. Replay your glory moments. Know that you did something really great for the kids. Feel good about yourself.

Then think about your presentation: what worked and what didn’t. What you want to do again next time, and what you’ll do differently.

And finally, share your experience in our forum so others can benefit.

Thank you so much for volunteering.