Volunteer FAQ
Volunteer Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need these clearances?
Find out more about PA Act 15 at Keep Kids Safe from the PA Department of Human Services' Office of Children, Youth, and Families.
Will I be notified when I am cleared to volunteer?
As long as you send in all the documents and clearances you are required to, you will be cleared to volunteer within five (5) business days. We will notify individuals when they are cleared to volunteer as long as they have provided an email address on their Volunteer Policy and Procedure Form.
Where do I send my completed documents and clearances?
Send all other documents to the Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) Supervisor before you begin volunteering. Do not bring these documents to the SCASD employee you will be volunteering with.
Documents and clearances may be mailed to:
VIPS Supervisor
Community Education
240 Villa Crest Dr.
State College, PA 16801
Items sent via interoffice mail may be sent to VIPS Supervisor Community Education, PV. Any questions may be directed toward the VIPS supervisor or call 814-231-1062.
Will the school district pay for my clearances?
No. However, the PA Child Abuse History Clearance and the PA State Police Criminal Record Check are now free for volunteers. The FBI fingerprinting is only necessary if you have not lived in the state of PA for the past 10 years or have been convicted of a crime. You may not end up needing to pay anything!
I completed clearances last year for another organization. Can I use those?
Yes, you may. Clearances are valid for five years from the date of request.
I work for the school district but would like to volunteer in my child's classroom. What do I need to do in order to volunteer?
Nothing. If you are employed by the district, all of your background clearances and documents are on file with HR. Please present your SCASD ID badge to the office.
I volunteered last year. Do I need clearances?
You do not need new clearances but will need to submit a new Volunteer Policy and Procedure Form.
I applied for a job with SCASD or used to work for SCASD. Do you have my clearances on file?
No. Unless you are currently employed, you will need to submit clearances that are less than 5 years old.