In celebration of National Parental Involvement Day, Monclova Primary School is shining a spotlight on two dedicated parent volunteers, Nicole Farthing and Jamie Smeltzer, whose contributions have made a lasting impact on the school community. Their efforts exemplify the essential role parents play in enhancing the educational experience for students.
Nicole Farthing: Supporting Teachers, Enriching Students
Nicole Farthing, a parent of three boys at Anthony Wayne Local Schools (grades 6, 4, and 2), has been a dedicated volunteer at Monclova Primary for the past eight years. For Nicole, volunteering is a full-time commitment she embraces with enthusiasm. From copying materials for teachers to assisting with reading groups, Nicole views her role as a way to support the school’s hardworking staff and be present for her children.
"My mom was a room mom when I was in third grade, and that left a lasting impression on me," Nicole shared. "I want my kids to know I care, and I want their teachers to feel supported. When I’m in school and my boys’ eyes light up when they see me, it means the world."
Nicole spends a significant amount of time each week making copies for teachers, freeing up their time to focus on more critical duties. She knows that by taking this task off their plates, they can use their planning time and lunch breaks for their intended purpose.
“Teachers have a million and one things to do every day. If I can just do this one thing, they only have a million things to do,” she laughed. “And if they can sit and eat lunch rather than trying to stand at the copier, it gives them a well-deserved break.”
Nicole’s favorite part of volunteering is working directly with students. Whether she’s reading with first graders or offering tutoring sessions for children who need extra help, Nicole finds fulfillment in watching kids grow and learn.
"I really love reading with the kids. It’s rewarding to see where they should be developmentally and watch them grasp new concepts,” she said. “It’s a peaceful time. We just get to hang out and read together.”
Nicole is proud to contribute to her time because it helps contribute to the smooth operation of the school.
"Everyone is so nice and helpful and genuinely seems to care about their work,” she said. “Even if you're having a bad day, the positive atmosphere here can turn it around.”
Jamie Smeltzer: Dedicated to Helping the AW Community Thrive
Jamie Smeltzer, a parent of two children in the District (grades 6 and 4) shares Nicole’s passion for making a difference at school. As a Certified Public Accountant consultant and real estate investor, Jamie balances her career with her extensive volunteer work, dedicating around 4-5 hours each week to help teachers and students. Her involvement spans a wide range of roles, from being a "copy mom" to holding leadership positions within parent organizations.
Jamie's journey into volunteering began during the COVID-19 pandemic when she experienced firsthand the challenges of teaching her own children at home.
"To be honest, it was hard,” she said. “I realized how much time teachers dedicate to educating our kids, and I wanted to do what I could to help.”
Since then, she has expanded her volunteer efforts to serve as the MAPS (Monclova Area Parents) treasurer, AWPTA (Anthony Wayne Parents and Teachers Association) secretary, and trustee for the AWEF (Anthony Wayne Education Foundation). She said she finds satisfaction in contributing toward the greater good.
“I just love being surrounded by hard-working, driven people working together towards a common goal,” she said.
Jamie is particularly passionate about events that bring joy and learning to students. She has read with second grade students and worked with a group of middle school students, coaching them on organizational skills. She can also frequently be found working at the book fair, chaperoning field trips, helping with Secret Santa activities or helping out when Imagination Station comes to visit.
"I believe parents can make a huge contribution by volunteering," Jamie emphasized. "It frees up teachers to focus on what they do best—educating our kids—and shows our children the importance of giving back to the community."
The Importance of Parental Involvement
Both Nicole and Jamie agree that parental involvement makes a significant difference in the school environment. By offering their time and skills, they help alleviate some of the day-to-day tasks for teachers, allowing them to focus on instruction. Their presence in the classroom also fosters a supportive environment for students, giving them the opportunity to see familiar faces and receive additional attention when needed.
"Parents who volunteer show their kids that they care, and that involvement helps build a sense of community," Nicole noted. "It’s a great way for parents to be more engaged in their children’s education and strengthen their connection with the school."
Jamie echoed this sentiment, adding that being involved with the school allows her to witness firsthand the dedication and hard work of the teachers and staff. "I’m so grateful to be part of such a caring and driven school community," she said. "I have enjoyed working with the staff and getting to know them personally. It takes a village to raise children and I feel we have amazing people in our AW village."
A Behind the Scenes Look at Education
Both Nicole and Jamie expressed that being involved with the District has helped them develop a greater understanding of how the schools run and a greater appreciation for the work of teachers and administrators.
Nicole said that becoming an active part of the AW school community means she has a better understanding of how the District and Monclova Primary operate.
“Everyone is so happy and really cares about their jobs - they just jump in and help out when there is something that needs to be done,” she said. “Working alongside them, you get an inside view and when decisions are made, you have a better idea of the “why” behind them.”
Jamie said volunteering in different buildings and capacities has given her the opportunity to witness greatness. She reports students make astounding gains in reading skills thanks to the dedication of their teachers. She has also witnessed teachers purchasing little gifts for students whose families could not afford to participate in the Book Fair. Jamie was also moved by how the staff at Monclova Primary has honored Robby Strong, a student who lost his battle with cancer.
“This outpouring of love has touched my heart and has shown me how much the teachers have become part of our kids’ history,” she said. “And I have seen many examples of how our faculty and staff work their hardest and put in 110% for our students.”
As National Parental Involvement Day highlights the invaluable role parents play in education, Monclova Primary and the entire Anthony Wayne Local Schools District celebrates the dedication and hard work of parent volunteers like Nicole and Jamie. Their commitment not only contributes to a successful school system, but also helps to build a thriving community where students feel they can belong and be successful.