It is noted first and foremost that we greatly appreciate those parents and community members that serve our school and students with their time, talents and efforts to make this such a great place for students to learn and grow.
That said, we are more aware and vigilant than ever in ensuring the safety and welfare of our students. In accordance with these efforts, the Oley Valley School District is requiring that all volunteers have updated clearances on file with the District Office.
It will be required that all volunteers have their clearances beginning with the 2012-2013 school district. It is highly recommended that volunteers obtain clearances at their earliest convenience.
FAQs:
Q: Who is considered to be a volunteer?
A: Any non-employee serving in any capacity that would have that person be in a school during school hours or at a non-athletic school event and be not in the presence of a school employee. Following are some examples of volunteering that would require the volunteer to have their clearances: serving as a chaperone for anything (school dance, field trip, etc.), serving at the book fair, and running the school store.
Someone who would not need clearances would be a parent bringing in a family pet for a class presentation. That parent will be required to be escorted as they move through the building.
Q: What clearances are required and how much do they cost?
A: There are two clearance forms that are required. The first is the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History form. This form must be printed out and submitted by mail. The cost for this clearance is $10 and must be paid by a money order.
The second clearance is the Pennsylvania State Police Criminal Record Check. The cost for this clearance is also $10. This can be done on-line or via mail.
Q: Where do I get these clearances?
A: Forms for the clearances can be obtained at the PA Department of Public Welfare website. The link for the clearance form page is http://www.dpw.state.pa.us/findaform/childabusehistoryclearanceforms/index.htm. The link for the PA State Police Criminal Record Check is http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=512&objID=4451&PageID=458621&mode=2. Hard copies of both of these forms are also available in the Middle School offlice.
Q: Are volunteers required to obtain a Federal History Background Check?
A: Not at this time. This is the check that requires the requestor to submit fingerprints. This check is required only for district employees. The school district reserves the right to require a Federal Background Check for any reason.