Baldwin Co. schools look for volunteers

BALDWIN COUNTY, Ala. - From the transportation division to the classroom, more than 200 workers in the Baldwin County School System will be laid off October first. It's a critical situation that led to a plea from School Superintendent Dr. Faron Hollinger.

"Baldwin County has a history of coming together in a time of crisis, and we believe that will be the same here," Dr. Hollinger said.

In an interview on FOX10 News Monday morning, and in the emails to parents throughout the district, the superintendent is asking for patience, understanding, and something else.

School system spokesperson Terry Wilhite says the system desperately needs volunteers.

"With $75 million less this year than we had last year to hire employees, we need volunteers and we need them now. And Baldwin County has always had parent participation, but we need it to a greater level than we've ever had it before," Wilhite said.

Wilhite said the school system can't continue to operate at the same level under the severe cuts. But he said parents or other volunteers can help in many areas that have suffered severe cuts.

Some areas may require special qualifications, but he says just about anyone can help.

Background checks will apply to volunteers, just like employees. The criminal background checks are required for all workers who have unsupervised access to the students. But one principal said most of the volunteers at his school are supervised, which means the background checks may not be needed.

If you're interested in volunteering in the Baldwin County School System, contact the principal at the individual schools to find out how you can help.