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Barbara Calbert began as a class parent at Priory in 2002 when her son David, ’09, entered 6th grade. She wanted to keep her finger on the pulse of what was going on
in his life away from home. Little did she know that her commitment to volunteerism
would reap great rewards in the form of enduring friendships for herself and her
children.
Fourteen years and two sons later, she continues on as a class parent, and she be-
lieves that her consistent involvement has contributed to her children’s commitment to the school. “The kids know the school is important to us and that builds pride,” she says. Whether volunteering as a Host Parent, serving at the Faculty Appreciation Event, chairing Grandparents Day, stuffing envelopes, or decorating for events, Bar- bara prefers working behind the scenes and away from the spotlight.
“I’m continually impressed by the number of parents who roll up their sleeves and make a difference,” she says. “Volunteering provides the opportunity to meet great people who are like you and share similar values. This bonding experience creates a network of support for the children.”
Barbara adds, “There are specific challenges to parenting in our community. How do we provide our children with a rigorous academic experience that prepares them for college while protecting and supporting them as individuals—emotionally, socially and spiritually?” She cites the religious foundations of the school and the Benedictine values as the supporting framework for these challenges. The Priory cul- ture allows students to be comfortable being who they are, she says, so “they don’t have to be someone they are not.”
From the beginning, volunteering gave Barbara a community of other mothers who came to share their time and talent and ended up sharing much more. “I don’t believe you can raise a child on an island. We don’t have all the answers. We learn from the parents ahead of us. I have gotten so much more than I have put in: parents as resources who become friends, relationships with students who become young adults, and a feeling that I am a part of something much bigger than myself.”
Perennial Volunteer Barbara Calbert: Creating a Network of Support
LAST VOLUNTEER STANDING