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Former teacher urges Rutherford County Schools to create clearer parent volunteer pathways
Summary
At the July board meeting, former teacher and parent Sydney Buvaggi urged the district to create flexible, lower-barrier ways for parents and community members to support classrooms—reading with students, organizing materials and assisting at events—as part of a broader response to student behavior challenges.
Sydney Buvaggi, a former Rutherford County Schools teacher, parent and current PhD student, told the board she supports exploring another alternative school but urged a broader approach that includes family and community support for in-classroom needs.
"Teachers and administrators cannot carry this responsibility alone," Buvaggi said, asking whether RCS can develop "clearer, more flexible pathways for parents and community members to support classrooms and school activities." She suggested activities such as one-on-one reading help, organizing classroom materials and supporting after-hours events.
Buvaggi described seeing the difference caring adults made for students while teaching at Holloway High School and said volunteer roles must be accessible to parents who cannot commit during the school day. She asked the board to consider structures that let more families contribute without overburdening teachers.
Board members and staff responded that volunteer procedures exist but can be refined. The director’s office said typical volunteer onboarding includes background checks and Raptor screening; the board asked staff to explore additional options and report back at upcoming meetings. The director indicated the district will examine ways to increase family engagement while maintaining student safety and compliance.
