In addition to the kickoff activity, an orientation should be held for school and business participants. Orientation should prepare individuals to participate in partnership activities. A general overview of the program should be provided, and the partnership’s goals, objectives, and plan of action thoroughly communicated.

While you can conduct your orientation in a variety of ways, your presentation should be well organized, succinct and to the point. You may wish to feature a welcome from the business representative and the principal. You may decide to combine the orientation with a breakfast or lunch. Whatever you do, try to foster a pleasant, relaxed atmosphere. Include a Question & Answer session, and make time for the various parties to interact.

We’ve listed a sample agenda below. While each unique partnership will feature its own orientation agenda, these suggestions might help generate ideas.

·  Welcome

·  Introductions

·  Tour of school facility (map including where to park, location of teacher’s lounge, etc.)

·  Schedule a tour of the business facility (if applicable)

·  Business profile

·  School profile

·  Review of needs

·  Share goals and objectives

·  Discuss needs for mutual confidentiality

·  Provide volunteers with information about school rules of behavior, emergency procedures, health and safety policies, and discipline procedures.

·  Hand out school calendar and/or daily schedule

·  Overview of school staff responsibilities

- Spirit of welcome

- Helpful attitude

- Effective communication

·  Overview of volunteer responsibilities

- Dependability

- Professionalism

- Promptness

- Being a role model in attitude, dress, and performance

·  Teacher tips on working in the classroom

·  Sign in procedures for volunteers

·  Upcoming activities and events

·  Question & Answer period