Positive quotes are one of the many ways that Jessica Reyna, a school playground recreation aide at Green Oaks Fundamental Elementary School, has built relationships with students, both as a former parent volunteer and now as a school employee. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified District

ORANGEVALE, CA (MPG) - Jesica Reyna, a school playground recreation aide at Green Oaks Fundamental Elementary School, sets the tone for the students' day in the morning by telling them, “You’re a great person, be positive and always make good decisions.”

Positive quotes are one of the many ways that Reyna has built relationships with students, both as a former parent volunteer and now as an employee at Green Oaks Fundamental Elementary School.

With three of her children enrolled in the San Juan Unified School District, Reyna wanted to find more ways to support her students’ success. 

“As a parent, when we do drop off, we think, ‘What are they learning? How is my son interacting or how does he behave in school?’” Reyna said. “The main reason I wanted to volunteer was to see what was happening in the classroom and help my sons feel confident.”

Reyna volunteered Tuesdays through Fridays with the kindergarten class. She supported different projects, made copies, prepared packets, graded homework and helped students one-on-one. 

She initially encountered some challenges with her schedule, due to being a stay-at-home mom, but managed to work around them, even accomplishing specific projects from home. Reyna cared for her kindergartener in the morning and would stay at school and volunteer after dropping him off for his afternoon kindergarten class.

Just like Jessica Reyna, parents and guardians can begin their own journey to make a difference for district students. Learn more about volunteering at San Juan Unified District. Photo courtesy of San Juan Unified District

After three years of volunteering, a job opportunity presented itself to Reyna. She applied for the school playground recreation aide position at Green Oaks Fundamental Elementary School and is now working in the role.

“I would always admire seeing the rec aides and the teachers, thinking, ‘One day, I hope that I could be here,’” she recalled.

As a first-generation student, Reyna had a support system at school that she never forgot. Her third-grade teachers would support Reyna and her parents, regardless of the language barrier, from calls about academic progress to homework support. 

“They definitely impacted my view on relationships and confidence. I felt different but they made me feel important,” she said. 

Reyna encourages parents to become involved with their school community, such as volunteering. She emphasized the importance of parent involvement in supporting students.

“I’ve noticed that when they see the support and the more we are involved, it helps with their confidence and bonding,” Reyna said. 

Parents or guardians interested in volunteering with San Juan Unified District must complete a one-time volunteer verification form and fingerprinting. 

Volunteer opportunities can be found by connecting with the school site.

“It’s helpful to speak with the front office staff, who are familiar with the volunteer process and the needs of their campus. It’s also a good idea to let your student’s teachers know that you’ve completed the clearance process and are available to volunteer,” said district volunteer and partnerships facilitator Vanessa Valenzuela. 

Just like Reyna, parents and guardians can begin their own journey to make a difference for district students. Learn more about volunteering at San Juan Unified District.