As the new school year approaches, Indianapolis schools are in need of more than just traditional backpacks and supplies. Tiffany Parker, a family and community engagement manager for Indianapolis Public Schools (IPS), notes that while school supplies are essential, there are other lesser-known ways to support students and teachers.

Supporting Local Students

Parker highlights the need for items such as clothing, hygiene kits, and eyeglasses. Some township government offices offer direct clothing assistance to families, and teachers have also requested help with belts, washcloths, and other essential items. Hygiene kits, which include travel-sized toiletries, are also in high demand, particularly for boys, who often receive fewer donations than girls.

Monetary donations can provide schools with flexibility to address changing needs throughout the year. The IPS Foundation, for example, has an Educational Equity Fund that supports the purchase of essential items, including clothes and classroom supplies. Community members can visit the IPS Foundation website to donate.

Volunteer Opportunities

Once the school year begins, volunteer programs across the city will be seeking mentors to work with students. Programs like Wayne Township’s HOSTS and United Way’s ReadUP will be recruiting volunteers to commit to just one hour a week of reading to elementary school students. The Moorhead Community Resource Center, run by Warren Township, offers a range of services, including mental health counseling, art therapy, and tutoring, and regularly recruits volunteers.

The center encourages community partners to check its social media pages throughout the year to learn about ways to help Warren Township schools. Community members can also contact their local school directly to inquire about volunteer opportunities or to discuss their family’s needs with a social worker or community liaison.

Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.