Volunteer

Volunteers play an important role in enriching student learning, building connections and supporting a positive school environment.

We welcome individuals of all ages, backgrounds, and skill sets to get involved. Whether you're supporting classrooms, events, or programs, your time and talents make a difference.

Ready to get started? Begin by contacting your school or reviewing the information below to learn about requirements and next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the process to become a volunteer?

Contact the school where you would like to volunteer to learn about available volunteer opportunities.
Complete the online Volunteer Application/Agreement form (linked here).
- A new form is required each school year.
- Each volunteer must complete their own form.
Complete any required background checks.
- Depending on the volunteer activity, this may include a standard background check or a fingerprint-based background check. Instructions will be provided after the form is submitted.
Wait for approval before volunteering.
- Submission of a volunteer form does not guarantee approval to volunteer. Volunteers must also be approved by the school and complete any required background check process before working with students.

Do I need any special skills to volunteer?

What can I do as a volunteer?

Volunteer opportunities vary by school and may include:

Supporting in classrooms (reading, tutoring, small group help)
Assisting in the library or front office
Coaching or supporting extracurricular activities and clubs
Chaperoning field trips or school events
Supporting arrival, dismissal, or campus safety
Assisting with special programs, enrichment activities or events

Additional opportunities may be available through specific school programs or community partnerships. Please contact your school for current volunteer needs and placement.

Do I need a fingerprint-based background check?

Some volunteer roles require a fingerprint background check, particularly those that involve any one-on-one or unsupervised interaction with students.

Examples of roles that may require a background check include:

Tutoring or reading support in a small or individual settings
Volunteer coaching
Chaperoning overnight trips or extended travel
Transporting student (driving or riding the bus)
Certain mentoring or program-based roles including Watch D.O.G.S, Lunch Lizard Program, and RSVP Volunteers

Your school or the Volunteer Office will let you know if a fingerprint background check is required for your specific role.

Fingerprint Background checks are completed by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, email d51volunteer@d51schools.org

I was fingerprinted last year. Do I need to complete another fingerprint -based background check?

No. Volunteer fingerprint background checks are valid for five years. If your background is still current, you do not need to complete another one.

Once your fingerprint background check expires, you will need to complete a new fingerprint background check to continue volunteering.

Please note: All volunteers are still required to complete a Volunteer Agreement Form each school year, regardless of background check status.

Current D51 employees and students are not required to complete a volunteer background check.
D51 cannot accept background checks completed through outside organizations; all checks must be processed through D51 in accordance with district policy.

How much time does volunteering require?

Volunteer time commitments vary based on the role and your availability. Schools will work with you to create a schedule that is flexible and mutually beneficial.

Some volunteer roles may include an orientation or training, and additional training opportunities may be offered to support you in your role.

Whether you can volunteer regularly or just occasionally, your time and support are valued.

Contact us:

d51volunteer@d51schools.org

Quick Links:

Board Policy KIA - Volunteers in Schools