Volunteer Process
Wooster City Schools
Volunteer Process
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. Our district prioritizes safety for our students and thus has established a volunteer process that includes a background check.
What is required?
A background check through the district’s online system will be required of all school volunteers. Volunteers are also required to review the Bullying Prevention and Intervention Awareness and Training for Volunteers that can be found here.
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
- Chaperoning a field trip
- Providing learning support for a classroom
- Assisting with making copies or preparing materials in school
- PTO volunteer work
- Volunteering for a classroom celebration in school
- Assisting in school during the instructional day
Background Check Not Required
- 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?
At this time, there is no cost* for a background check. The district is covering the cost of the screening for each volunteer.
*Please note that this may be subject to change.
PLEASE NOTE! If you are a Wooster City School District employee and would like to volunteer, you do NOT need to complete this screening. Your BCI/FBI background check result is already on file with the district.
In addition: If you are a parent or community member that would like to volunteer and you have already had a BCI/FBI background check completed within the school year that you would like to volunteer, please take a copy of those results to any school office or to the Board of Education Office. You do NOT need to complete this screening.
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 the link below to get started.
Where can answers to additional questions be found?
For Volunteer Application Process Questions please contact Diane Lepley at 330-988-1111 ext. 1250
For Questions about Volunteer Opportunities please contact the building/program directly.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 if I have a successful background check on file?
Yes, you must wear a visitor badge at all times when visiting a building.
How often do I have to complete the background check?
Volunteers must reapply every school year.
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.