Mary DeRaad of rural Albert Lea went back to school when her oldest son started school.

Nine years ago DeRaad started volunteering at Sibley Elementary School.

DeRaad said she enjoys being at the school and getting to know the kids on a more personal level.

“You talk to them as an adult, but (also) be a friend at the same time,” DeRaad said.

DeRaad volunteers as a “Room Mom” in a fifth-grade class. Part of her duties is to help with class parties and to accompany the class on field trips. DeRaad also volunteers in the media center at the school, helping out the staff where ever she can.

DeRaad has a son in the school for one more year, but she plans on staying and volunteering even after he moves up to the middle school.

“I like to see the kids, get to know them and I really enjoy them,” she said.

DeRaad also volunteers as a first-grade Sunday School teacher at St. Theodore’s Catholic Church and through 4-H.

If you are interested in volunteering at Sibley Elementary School call 379-5080 for more information.