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BY BILL KOSSLER
Rappahannock News Writer
Just the other day I had the opportunity to speak with one of the most enthusiastic, optimistic and upbeat people I have ever met. Jan Makela, who writes the Panther Paws report from the public schools, is our school system’s volunteer coordinator.
Her joyful enthusiasm is palpable and infectious and exciting to be around. People around her refer to her with words like “tireless* “invaluable” “amazing” and “indispensable” but with understated humility, she downplays her own role, calling herself a “professional beggar for the school system”.
As volunteer coordinator, or beggar, Mrs. Makela gets in touch with folks about volunteering, adds them to her ever expanding list of willing workers, and connects them with teachers or administrators who need a hand.
The activities where volunteers play a role is nearly endless.
She points out that “in a small system where your funds, your tax funds are limited, you ask for more. We are just very fortunate we have a lot of citizens in the community that ... are incredibly positive”.
Volunteers help with Field Day, DARE Day and the science fair. They man the computer labs, so teachers can send students to work in the labs, knowing there is adult supervision. There are Band Boosters, Choral Boosters, the PTO book exchange, the student art show on
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