Colorado Volunteers Make Schools Shine in Pagosa Springs

When Eric Johnson's kids started kindergarten two years ago, he decided retirement from the military meant more than just rest. It meant showing up for students who needed champions in their corner.

Now Johnson spends his Wednesdays reading with first graders at Pagosa Springs Elementary School, practicing sight words and watching kids light up when they master new skills. He assembles classroom materials, helps with projects, and recently joined school committees to help shape district priorities.

His motivation is simple but powerful. "The education of our kids is very important," Johnson says, crediting his sister's teaching career for inspiring his commitment.

First grade teacher Tiffany Kinne sees the difference firsthand. Johnson reads with her students weekly, presented to her class about his cultural heritage, and helped assemble hundreds of learning materials that would have taken her months alone.

The moment that keeps Johnson coming back? Watching a student master sight words and seeing the pure pride on their face. "The kids really enjoy seeing other adults at school," he says, encouraging others to volunteer whatever time they can spare.

Meanwhile, Dee McPeek found her way to service through the district's Master Plan Advisory Committee. After attending a community meeting about school facilities, she realized the buildings where students spend their days needed serious attention.

What moved her most was watching diverse community members unite around one shared goal: better schools for Pagosa's kids. McPeek values seeing projects grow from ideas into real solutions that give students safe, functional spaces to learn.

Her message to potential volunteers is direct. "Everyone has skills and experiences to share, and your involvement can make a bigger difference than you imagine."

Sunny's Take

These stories capture something beautiful about community. Johnson reads to kids on Wednesdays not because he has endless free time, but because those moments matter. McPeek tackles facility challenges not because she's an expert, but because she cares.

Both volunteers prove you don't need special credentials or decades of availability. You just need to show up with whatever you can offer. A few hours on Wednesday mornings transforms into reading confidence for struggling students. Committee meetings turn into safer school buildings.

The Archuleta School District celebrated these volunteers during National Volunteer Week, recognizing how their contributions strengthen the entire learning community. Teachers get support they desperately need. Students gain role models beyond their regular instructors. Schools become places where the whole community invests.

Fun twist: Johnson recently took up paragliding and learned alongside one of his daughter's teachers. McPeek admits she's terrified of heights but has jumped out of helicopters anyway during 57 years of marriage to her adventurous husband.

Community members interested in volunteering can contact local schools directly or visit the district website to explore current opportunities.

Small acts of service create the strongest communities, one Wednesday reading session at a time.