A new initiative is providing assistance to 10 of Hillsborough County's under-performing schools.
- 'All Hands on Deck' started last month in Hillsborough County
- Goal is so spend more time with teachers, prep for April testing
- District workers say the have enjoyed their time helping out
The program is called "All Hands On Deck."
Hillsborough County Public School employees, who typically work in the district office, have been helping out at schools like Potter Elementary in East Tampa.
The approach gives the principal and teachers more time to devote to students before state testing in April.
"If I'm working with a group of students, I don't want to get called on the radio that I need to go here or I need to go there because my time is precious with them," said Melanie Hill, principal of Potter Elementary.
"During this period of time, whatever we can do to help the schools so that they can really focus on instruction, that's what we're here for," said Barbara Hancock, the Instructional Leadership Director for Elementary Schools.
District workers said they have enjoyed their time helping out in the classrooms. Several employees have assisted in areas like lunch duties and mentoring.
Kimberley Bistany, who usually spends her time in accounting, even brought candy to celebrate with the students.
The "All Hands On Deck" initiative started last month. It will end next week, right before the next round of school testing begins.