GCS Announces New Volunteer Engagement Specialist
Goshen Community Schools announces Sharon Sarber as the new Volunteer Engagement Specialist. This position is a partnership involving Goshen Community Schools, Elkhart Community Schools and United Way of Elkhart County. Read United connects community volunteers with classrooms in elementary schools and is comprised of three opportunities throughout the school year: Real Men Read, Reading Camps, and Spring Into Reading.
“United Way is passionate about helping students succeed”, said Bill Rieth, President of United Way of Elkhart County. “For over 90 years, United Way has fought for the Education, Health and Financial Stability of every person in our community. We’re excited to have Sharon as a Volunteer Engagement Specialist. Her experience, passion and skills will make a huge impact.”
GCS Assistant Superintendent Alan Metcalfe stated, “The Read United programs have been very successful within Goshen Community Schools and Sharon’s qualifications will enable us to maintain the existing programs, while also planning for future expansion. She will provide that direct connection to United Way and allow our partnership to continue and deepen.”
Sharon is a licensed teacher in k-6 through Indiana Wesleyan University and k-12 Moderate and Severe Needs through the University of Saint Francis. She has teaching experience in both the Goshen and Elkhart school districts, most recently with Goshen Community Schools. She has taught at Wakarusa Elementary, the Young Adult Program, and Goshen High School in Life Skills. Sharon continued teaching for GCS last year through the Goshen Online Academy housed at the Boys and Girls Club. She worked in Elkhart Community Schools as a Life Skills and Mild Disability paraprofessional. Prior to working in the schools, Sharon was employed at a Biotechnology company located in Elkhart.
In addition to Sharon’s licensures, she also holds a Master’s in Business Administration from Indiana University South Bend and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Northern Michigan University.
Sharon plans to raise awareness of the Read United programs within both school districts. She is actively seeking community volunteers to engage our elementary and preschool students. Please contact Sharon directly for additional information about volunteer opportunities at ssarber@goshenschools.org or 574-533-2048.