Mission Statement of VIP

The mission of the Volunteers in Partnership (VIP) program at Southside Christian School is to serve as partners with administrators, teachers, and staff in providing an excellent education consistent with biblical truth.

Purpose

Volunteers in Partnership (VIP) is an innovative, award-winning parent organization designed to meet the unique needs of the Southside Christian School family. 

At the core of the Southside Christian School mission statement are the words “to partner with Christian parents."  From this mission the VIP program was born.  Unlike the typical parent-teacher organization, VIP is not primarily, or even minimally, a fund-raising organization.  Rather, VIP is a resource for manpower, creativity, and giftedness working in partnership with faculty, staff, and administration. 

VIP is led by an executive committee made up of a chairman, a representative from each school, and representatives for specific groups such as athletics and alumni.  These leaders communicate closely with the administrative council member they represent and with the volunteers within their departments.  The executive committee also serves as an advisory committee, evaluating new ideas, formulating proposals, and recommending guidelines.   

In Early Education and Lower School, room coordinators are the focal point of the VIP program.  Customized notebooks, or planning guides, provide room coordinators with critical information such as dates for special events and contact information for other parents.  The notebooks also include administration-approved guidelines for class parties, media contact, and other school operations.

In the Upper School, volunteer sponsors assist faculty members with administrative duties such as making reservations, planning receptions, and supporting student leaders during homecoming and other special events.  VIP sponsors also provide assistance during school pictures, the school play, and the senior reception.

VIP takes a unique approach to making the faculty feel appreciated.  Teacher treats and notes of encouragement are placed in teacher workrooms every other Friday.  Parent volunteers produce visuals, maintain science labs, and staff the annual book fair.  Various committees reduce school expenses by finding bargains for budgeted items, and VIP coordinates meals for both faculty and student families undergoing illness, death, or similar trials.

Many parent-teacher organizations have their own checking accounts and operate as entities almost independent from the school.  In contrast, the VIP program at Southside Christian School promotes a true partnership between parents and school officials.  Parents feel needed and valued, and teachers are free to teach.  We praise God for the partnership He has allowed us to enjoy through VIP!

For more information on being involved at Southside Christian School, contact Cathy Clark 234-7575 x-1311 or cclark@southsidechristian.org.