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Volunteer Information

Our schools are extremely fortunate to have the support of our parent and community volunteers. While we are continually grateful for this support, we are also aware of the potential concerns that can arise when volunteers are working directly with students. One of the recent priorities established by our District Safety Committee, which is comprised of law enforcement personnel, first responders, parents, and staff, is that volunteers should have background checks completed to promote safety within our schools. Each staff member and coach in the district is required to provide initial and ongoing background checks to ensure that they are deemed safe for working with our students, so it makes sense to consider a similar requirement for volunteers working with students or who are helping in the building during the school day.

What is required?

Background checks through the district’s online system will be required of all school volunteers.

When does the requirement go into effect?

All school volunteers are encouraged to apply for the background check as soon as possible. Beginning on March 1, 2019, a background check will be required to be able to volunteer.

How long does it take to process a background check?

Volunteers should apply for the check at least one week prior to an event.

What activities require a background check?

While this is not an exhaustive list, here are some examples that do or do not require a background check:

Background Check Required	Background Check NOT Required
Chaperoning a field trip Providing learning support for a classroom Helping with making copies/preparing materials in school PTO volunteer work Volunteering for a classroom celebration in school Helping in school during the instructional day	Having lunch with your child Picking up a child from school Being a guest speaker Attending a student performance

How much does a background check cost?

The district shares the cost of the background check. Volunteers pay the remaining $5.00 cost via credit card on the third-party site when applying. The third-party vendor does not keep credit card information. Volunteers with financial concerns can contact Claire Paul in Human Resources at 740-965-3010.

What issues disqualify a person from being able to volunteer?

Disqualifiers generally include convictions of a misdemeanor or felony. Infractions such as traffic violations will most likely not prevent a person from being a volunteer.

Is a background check required if a volunteer has another background check result that can be shared?

Yes, a background check must be completed through the district’s online system, regardless of any other background check that a volunteer can provide.

What does the district do with the information from a background check?

Information from the background check is used solely for the purpose of determining volunteer eligibility. Specific information will not be made known to individual school staff members unless there is a safety concern.

How do you apply for a background check?

A link to the application is available by clicking here or the link below to get started.

Where can answers to additional questions be found?

The Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) document has been created to help understand whether a background check is needed, depending on the reason for visiting a building. In general, if a volunteer supervises or works with students in any form, a successful background check is required. The information can also be found in the column on the right of this page.

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the many volunteers who have helped us inspire and guide our students to reach their maximum potential. Your continued support is appreciated, and we look forward to continuing to work with our community in maintaining a safe, respectful, and welcoming environment for our students.

Get started on my volunteer application, it's quick and easy!

Volunteering in Our Schools - Frequently Asked Questions

Is a background check required for the following?

Yes

Chaperoning a field trip
Providing learning support for a classroom
Helping the classroom teacher with copying or classroom supplies within the building
PTO volunteer work in the building
Volunteering for a classroom celebration
Helping to organize library books
Helping to display student work in the halls
Any activity where a volunteer is alone with a student or group of students

Having lunch with my child
Attending a student performance
Picking up my child from school
Being a guest speaker in the classroom

How long will it take to get results from the background check?

The district recommends applying for a background check at least one week prior to volunteering. You will receive notice via email as soon as results are available and will be able to volunteer immediately upon receiving verification of a successful background check. You should receive your volunteer card by mail within 10 business days.

Do I need to sign in at the office if I have a successful background check on file?

Yes, you must always sign in at a building office as soon as you arrive.

Do I need to wear a visitor badge is I have a successful background check on file?

Yes, you must wear a visitor badge at all times when visiting a building.

Does any criminal record prohibit me from volunteering?

No, disqualifiers generally include convictions of a misdemeanor or felony. Infractions such as traffic violations will most likely not prevent a person from being a volunteer.

Can I use the results from a previous background check instead of going through the district’s process?

No, volunteers must apply through the district’s background check system.

How often do I have to complete the background check?

Volunteers must reapply every three years.

Can I dispute information found on my background screen?

There are multiple ways a dispute can be submitted. You can visit the BIB online dispute resolution center to submit a dispute, or if you prefer to dispute your report directly with a Dispute Resolution Partner, you can do this by calling 877-439-3900. If a submitted dispute is verified, your report will be resubmitted to the district for review.

How much does the background check cost?

The district will pay the majority of the cost. Volunteers are only charged $5.00 for the background check, which is payable by credit/debit card when completing the online application.

What if I have a financial hardship and am unable to pay my share?

Families who need financial assistance may contact Claire Paul in Human Resources at [email protected] or 740.965.7845.

What if I lose my card?

Use this link to request a replacement card. A small fee may be required for replacement cards.