by Jennifer Reece

Reporter

Hudson -- As kindergarten students at Seton Catholic School move from one activity to the next during "station" time, they enjoy the help they receive from Carol Chamberlain, a former educator, who now volunteers her time working with the youngsters.

Chamberlain is part of the ASSIST program, which integrates members of the Laurel Lake Retirement Community into positions at Seton Catholic, including in the areas of classroom aid, library, small group tutoring, technology and teacher support.

Chamberlain is a former physical education teacher who spent 37 years with the East Cleveland School District. She's been retired for the past 27 years.

At 85, she said she is thrilled to spend a few hours each week with the children in teacher Jackie Palumbo's classroom.

"It has all been a nice experience for me," said Chamberlain. "They [kids] make you feel so good. They are so loving."

In addition to volunteering each Thursday, Chamberlain also accompanies the class on field trips. Last year, she even had all 24 students in the class come to her apartment at Laurel Lake for a picnic and knitted each student a hat for Christmas.

Chamberlain is one of four volunteers from Laurel Lake who give their time each week.

Sally Davies, a former kindergarten aide with Hudson City Schools for 25 years, helps out with another kindergarten class at Seton Catholic.

Now in her third year with the ASSIST program, Davies said the chance to work with young people has been a great experience.

"I am so impressed [with the kids],' Davies said. "I pretty much have endless patience."

Volunteers Theresa Birner and Bruce Sullivan complete the list of volunteers now helping at the school.

Pat Fritz of Seton Catholic School said the ASSIST program is a win-win for the volunteers and the school.

"The individual and small group learning is enhanced in the classroom through this program," said Davies. "We are grateful for their wisdom and weekly commitment to our school community."

E-mail: jreece@recordpub.com

Phone: 330-688-0088 ext. 3145