Symmes Township residents with a knack for science, a story from military service, or a skill they've honed over decades can bring that knowledge directly into local classrooms.
Sycamore Community Schools is recruiting community partners through CommunityShare, a national digital platform the district describes as a "human library." Teachers browse volunteer profiles and match with guest speakers, mentors, or project collaborators who fit a lesson or unit they're planning. The district serves about 6,051 students across Symmes Township, Blue Ash, Montgomery, and parts of Sycamore Township.
Science professionals top the district's wish list. The district posted on its website and on Instagram calling for scientists to help with upcoming student projects. But the invitation extends to anyone with professional expertise, artistic talent, athletic background, military or public service experience, or travel stories and cultural insights, according to the district's announcement.
How it works
Signing up takes about 10 minutes at communityshare.org. Volunteers create a profile listing their skills, interests, and availability. The district encourages uploading a photo so teachers can put a face to a name.
Once registered, partners can browse active classroom projects on the platform or wait for a Sycamore educator to reach out directly. The time commitment is flexible. A partner might lead a single 30-minute talk or collaborate on a semester-long project.
All community partners must follow screening and safety protocols before entering school buildings, according to the district. The district said its goal is to give students real-world learning experiences without leaving their own community.
Contact and next steps
Residents with questions can reach Jessica Schmidt, Sycamore Community Schools' director of communications, at [email protected]. No sign-up deadline has been announced; the call for volunteers is open-ended.
Upcoming community dates:
- Sycamore Community Schools' CommunityShare sign-up is open at communityshare.org
- Science professionals are especially needed for upcoming classroom projects
