Important Updates to Volunteer Approval Process

New This Year

• Centralized volunteer registration is now open to all families – the invite form is discontinued.
• There is no longer a 3-year WA State residency requirement for Tier 1 Volunteers.
• Prospective volunteers should go to this SPS volunteer page: Volunteer application instructions and resources. Every Volunteer, new or old should be going here to confirm they have completed the necessary steps to be Approved.
• There is now a Volunteer Portal Help Guide to help Volunteers navigate becoming new volunteers, renewing background checks, and updating missing information.
• The new streamlined volunteer applications offer two volunteer roles:
  • Tier 1 can volunteer under supervision in the classroom and chaperone day field trips.
  • Tier 2 clearance is required for overnight trips (camps).
• Volunteers must use the electronic sign-in system every time they enter and leave the school. It is very important that all Volunteers check in with Office Staff before they sign in using the Verkada kiosk in the main office.
• Volunteers must use the email address associated with their SPS Volunteer account to sign in.

Important Reminders

• Only Invited Approved Volunteers or Visitors that have been pre-authorized by the principal are allowed to enter classrooms (including the library), halls, the playground, or the cafeteria during the school day.
• Please note that Volunteers and Visitors many not bring siblings/younger children into classrooms during the school day or on field trips.
• Volunteers may not drive students other their own during school sponsored field trips.

Please direct any questions to Volunteer Coordinator, Lara Cowles at lacowles@seattleschools.org

Thank you for your continued support and commitment to our school community.

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Apply to Volunteer with Seattle Public Schools

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Seattle Public Schools!

Safety First! Only approved volunteers can serve in SPS schools. SPS serves 50,000 children and youth. We are committed to carefully screening volunteer candidates to ensure student safety.

Why Volunteer in Your Child’s School?

• Higher grades, test scores, and graduation rates
• Better attendance
• Increased motivation and self-esteem

Contact your school office or visit the SPS Volunteer page to learn more about volunteering.