Fort Worth ISD News

Paschal High School, home to 2,084 students, offers numerous programs that invite parents, citizens, and community partners to become part of the school through volunteering.

These volunteers are busy—just like the rest of us. Yet they take time from their packed schedules to:

• Facilitate the exchange of vital information between the school and parents

• Foster community

• Organize student events

• Plan fundraisers to provide extra supplies for teachers or even replace the boys' gym bleachers

• Show appreciation to support and encourage teachers

• Help manage the school’s Care Closet and Community Pantry

What does an FWISD volunteer or partner look like?

They are like busy bees, working diligently to ensure that every student, family, and staff member has what they need to thrive in the school community.

Some volunteers and partners come to campus to lend a hand. Others work behind the scenes—planning and coordinating events, providing in-kind donations, offering access to resources, or even adding items from the school's wish list to their Amazon carts.

Some are students who initially volunteered to earn service hours but continue returning because they value the fellowship and sense of purpose they find in serving.

When thinking of the volunteers and partners who support Paschal, several stand out:

• The many PTA members who show up each Monday to prepare snacks for the week

• Tabitha Avila with Ghrist Law, who, along with her team, warmly welcomes families every Thursday at the Panther Community Market

• Susan Kirchner, who volunteers weekly at the Market despite not having a student at Paschal

• University Baptist Church, which graciously provides space to store supplies during the holidays

• The countless students who, after receiving support from the Care Closet, return to help organize it simply because they care

While some students may start volunteering for service hours, many return again and again because they feel a connection to the supportive space that has been created on campus. In fact, when the Panther Community Market first launched, students and community partners arrived as early as 6:00 a.m. to unload over 3,000 pounds of food.

Paschal’s volunteers and partners make a tangible, meaningful difference every single day.

Each one—named or unnamed—is a vital part of what makes Paschal High School so special. The school community could not do the important work it does without their heart, dedication, and support.