Programs > Classroom Plus > Volunteers

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decide what topics I can speak about?
Start by checking out the Commonly Requested Speaker Topics. Don’t be limited by your present career…if you are a marketing executive now but you once were a carpenter, cite them both as topics you can speak on!

What if a Classroom Plus representative calls me and I am unable to speak on the date requested?
Most teachers are quite flexible, but if an alternative date can’t be arranged to work with your schedule, we will simply call another volunteer.

What if I have to cancel a speaking engagement?
Most teachers are quite flexible, but if an alternative date can’t be arranged to work with your schedule, we will simply call another volunteer. However, once you have agreed to speak in a classroom, we ask you to honor that as a firm commitment to the teacher. A teacher will plan his/her week’s curriculum around your visit, so it is very important that they can rely on you. If you must cancel, please do so no later than one week in advance.

How often can I expect to be contacted?
Typically, we contact you no more than once per month. When searching for a speaker, Classroom Plus representatives search our database first by topic, then by location. If your name matches our search criteria, we will call you to see if you’re interested in the opportunity. If you would only like to be contacted once per month, we can note that on your file. If you’d like to go out as much as possible, we note that, too!

What happens once I am confirmed to speak?
After a date has been set, we will send you and the teacher a confirmation form, which will have both of your contact information (address, phone, email). We ask that you and the teacher communicate at least a week beforehand to verify date/time and details. Suggested points to discuss: topic details, student ability level, student knowledge of subject (intro or advanced?), directions to the school and where to check in, any equipment needs.

What is a typical speaking request like?
Typically, we will call you 2-4 weeks in advance. Here is an example of a typical request:
Teacher: Anne Johnson
School: Patrick Henry High School, Mpls
Course: Career Exploration, grade 11-12
Date: any day week of March 15-19
Time: 8:20-9:30, 9:40-10:30 a.m.
Topic: Career in Sales (or Advertising, or Construction, or I.S., or Law, etc.)

Contact Information
Rachel Schwalbach
Classroom Plus Program Associate
763-398-0090 ext. 235
rschwalbach@bestprep.org