Bloomington Public Schools thanks volunteers as April marks Volunteer Appreciation Month

Superintendent Eric Melbye thanked volunteers on behalf of Bloomington Public Schools as April was named Volunteer Appreciation Month, noting the district's Volunteer Connection program has organized volunteer efforts for 30 years. "Thanks to you, classrooms feel more supported, students feel more encouraged, and our schools are stronger communities," Melbye said.

Students, a student teacher at Normandale Hills and longtime volunteer parents described how volunteers assist in classrooms, help students learn English, and serve as role models. A student said tutors helped with grammar lessons, including "what are adjectives and nouns," and another speaker said their favorite moment is seeing a student's "light bulb" when they grasp a concept.

The remarks emphasized volunteering as a two-way process that benefits both students and volunteers. Melbye closed by expressing gratitude for volunteers' time and commitment to helping students thrive.