Carol Johnson is proud to say she has one child, three grandchildren, two great-grandchildren — and over 650 elementary students who adore her.
Johnson has an abundance of children in her life thanks to the Golden Helpers program at George G. Blaisdell Elementary School (GGB) in Bradford where she has volunteered the past four years.
Principal Erin Waugaman said the school district welcomes adult volunteers of all ages at the four campuses in the school district.
“Some are retired teachers, some are grandparents and some are community members who help us out,” Waugaman said.
At GGB, approximately 10 Golden Helpers assist teachers and staff with any number of activities.
“They help us with kindergarten registration, they work in the library by shelving and fixing the binding in books,” Waugaman stated. “They also do filing and make bulletin boards” as well as assist in the school’s Santa store.
Waugaman said one of the stand-out volunteers is Johnson who goes above and beyond her duties. Johnson, a retired church secretary, said she and her husband, Ron, have volunteered for the school district the past several years. She noted her husband volunteers at the high school.
“When I started with the Golden Helpers, I wanted a place where I could have the best influence on the kids,” she said. “The idea is to make these kids feel like they’re special.”
For example, she addresses all children as “pumpkin” or “sweetheart” which she considers to be endearing terms.
“One kid said to me ‘My name isn’t pumpkin,’ and I said ,‘Well, to me, you’re a pumpkin and sometimes you’re a sweetheart,’” she remarked.
GGB librarian Alyssa Osani said Johnson is a huge help to her. Arriving at 7:30 a.m. and leaving at 3 p.m. on three days of the week, Johnson does a number of library tasks throughout the day and year. In the past, she volunteered at the school five days a week.
“At the end of the year (Johnson) takes a whole week to do lessons” with the students, Osani added. “It’s great for me because at the end of the year, it’s inventory time so I have a lot of clerical stuff I have to do. I can still watch (the students) while she is doing the lessons — she’s a lifesaver.”
Osani said Johnson also makes items for the children outside of school hours.
“The first year, she made little gingerbread boy and girl necklaces,” Osani recalled. “The second year, she made crocheted turtles” for all students in the school. Last year, Johnson made necklace drums for the students to compliment a book they read in the library. She also crocheted large pumpkins that are on display in the library for the Halloween season.
Osani said a former library secretary, Rosemary Sloter, also volunteers in the library.
“She retired, but she still comes in on Tuesdays or Wednesdays to shelf and help repair (books) because we have 4-year-olds to 8-year-olds here,” she said. “I’m blessed with people who come in to help me.”
Several children commented on Johnson and the help she provides.
“I would say that she’s a very nice lady to help us and put away our books,” one little girl said.
“She made us little turtles and everyone still has them.”
Another girl added, “She helps us find a book, she’s very nice and kind-hearted.”
Waugaman said anyone who would like to volunteer in the school district can do so by applying at the district offices on Lorana Avenue. All volunteers must pass background checks, as well.
She said volunteers will be placed in campuses that match their desires and talents.
