Volunteer Carla Thorson says Walla Walla VIP program boosts students' confidence

Carla Thorson, a volunteer in the Walla Walla School District VIP volunteer program, said during public comments that she spends time at Garrison and Prospect schools helping students with homework and providing a consistent, non-teacher adult presence.

"I volunteer for the kids. I like the kids," Thorson said, adding that she tries to "lift them up a little bit" when they are having a bad day. She described the value of familiarity for children: by being around, she told listeners, students know there is "a familiar face that's not just a teacher figure."

Thorson said she also observes social dynamics among students, telling the meeting she enjoys "spying on them and snooping on who's friends with whom," and that she works to give students confidence and help with homework when needed. She identified herself as a volunteer in the district's VIP volunteer program and said she hopes to continue volunteering.

The remarks in the transcript were part of public comment; no formal motions or votes were recorded in the provided transcript segments. The comments underscore the role volunteers say they play in supporting students' social and academic needs at local schools.