We appreciate your interest in volunteering in Polk County Public Schools. Our schools offer a variety of volunteer opportunities you may choose from when volunteering your time.
All volunteer applicants will be required to undergo a criminal background screen every five (5) years from the date of approval.
There are two levels of background screenings - Level 1 and Level 2. A Level 1 screened volunteer will always need to be monitored by a PCPS Staff member and may not be able to serve as a volunteer in specific roles. Before completing this Level 1 application, contact your school to determine what level they recommend for the roles that you wish to volunteer for.
Because Polk County Public Schools values student safety and security, prior conduct may disqualify a volunteer applicant. To meet the required search criteria of Section 943.04351, Florida Statutes, for information regarding sexual predators and sexual offenders, schools must complete a criminal background screen.
An applicant applying for a Level 1 or Level 2 volunteer status will be disqualified if any of the following is found on their criminal record:
1. Convicted of, had adjudication withheld, or currently awaiting disposition on any criminal offense found Florida Statute 435.04. You can review the statute here: https://tinyurl.com/3wbj8nds
Review the qualifications above carefully before submitting your application. Once you submit your volunteer application and upon approval you will receive notification on next steps.
It is very important that the information you enter on the application matches your government issued identification card including your full legal name. It is important that you provide a valid email address so you can be notified as to the status of your application and for future communication. If you are unable to provide an email address, please contact your school's volunteer coordinator. Polk County Public Schools is subject to laws governing the release of public records, including Florida Statutes Chapter 119.
Please make sure that all the information on your application is accurate and without errors. Having incorrectly entered information could result is you being required to submit a new application and pay additional fees.
If you have any questions about the application, please contact the Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships at 863.457.4708, Option 2 (Volunteers).
Thank you,
The Department of Public Relations & Strategic Partnerships