In celebration of the Victorian Seniors Festival this October, EdConnect is recognising the commitment and passion of local volunteers who give their time consistently each week to support students and schools.
EdConnect is an intergenerational volunteering charity assisting schools by offering learning support and mentoring programs.
Local Hillside resident Teresa Livoti has been supporting students at Monmia Primary School in Prep this year.
She said that she is thrilled to be actively taking part in the education of a child belonging to Australia’s future generation.
“Walking into the classroom in the morning and hearing the students calling out my name to say hello is just the best feeling,” Ms Livoti said.
EdConnect trained her for the volunteer role, which involves her helping out in the classroom with various activities and listening to students read for 15 hours per week, helping students strengthen their reading skills, sound awareness and comprehension.
“Sometimes I encourage the students to practice reading at home,” she said.
“When they come in the next day and tell me they have practiced, it makes my heart jump with joy.
“It’s so lovely knowing that what I say may trigger that interest in them.”
Ms Livoti said she felt “very welcomed” by the Monmia Primary School community.
“Volunteering in this school has been so personally fulfilling and has given me something to look forward to each week,” she said.
Monmia Primary School assistant principal Lucia Vorpasso said she enjoys and values the school’s partnership with EdConnect Australia.
“We are so blessed to have these wonderful people from our community give their time every week and share their skills to support our teachers and students,” she said.
“We are very grateful for EdConnect volunteers.”
Details: www.edconnectaustralia.org.au
Liam McNally
