Wow! How Lucky his kids are to have such a super father!
Wherever Warren Rice is needed, he's there.
Since the beginning of the school year, Mr. Rice has spent numerous hours volunteering at A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet High School.
He spends time in the library signing books in and out, monitors students on computers to make sure they aren't "playing around" and organizes materials in the media center.
He also helps out with administrative tasks, makes copies for teachers and even changes the school's marquee.
"I do whatever I can to help them," said Mr. Rice, whose son is a freshman at the school. "They can even call me if they want and I'll make sure to do what I can. I love being involved."
Volunteering didn't just start this year for Mr. Rice, who is retired from the Army.
He has volunteered since his children were at C.T. Walker Traditional Magnet School. He also volunteers when he can at John S. Davidson Fine Arts Magnet School, where his daughter is a sixth-grader.
It sets a positive example for students when they see adults involved, he added.
"It makes an impression on them. It really does," he said. "I got my start because I saw parents and other adults involved in all the schools that I've attended."
Parental involvement is a key element in education, he added.
"When you assist the staff, believe it or not, directly or indirectly, you are making an impact on the students' education."
Reach Nikasha Dicks at (706) 823-3336 or nikasha.dicks@augustachronicle.com.
VOLUNTEER OF THE MONTH: WARREN RICE
FAMILY: Son Warren, 14, and daughter Whitney, 11
WHY HE VOLUNTEERS: "I just enjoy giving," he said. "There are many opportunities to volunteer, whether it's in a school, a soup kitchen, with the Red Cross or some other organization. All it takes is a little bit of your time. A little bit goes a long way. I don't do it for recognition or money. I just do it. I just want to give. That's it."
NOMINATOR'S QUOTE: "Mr. Rice's (son) is a first-year student at (A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet High School) and the time that he puts in at school is remarkable," wrote LouAnne Grove, the assistant principal at A.R. Johnson. "He is always volunteering to help in any area that is needed and is one that asks us what help we need. We do not ever have to ask this parent."
Comments
Wow! How Lucky his kids are to have such a super father!
Hello---
We are so happy to read about Warren. He was a student at Our Lady Help of Christian's School when our children attended. He is a very special person from a very special family. It is just like Warren to give of his "Self" with love. His children are lucky to have such a Dad. They're probably not too aware of that as yet, but as they grow older they will look back at these years with pride. Keep up the good work, Warren!! We're Proud of You!!
I'm wondering how his son feels about it. I have yet to meet a 14 year old that wants their parents at the same school they attend. As you know, I am 1000% in favor of school volunteers, but I wouldn't do that to my child.
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