- Wake County Public School System
- Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
The below questions reflect some of the more common questions that are asked about the WCPSS volunteer process. We will continue to add to and update these questions to assist volunteers.
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How do I sign up to become a WCPSS volunteer?
You may go online to the WCPSS website Community Volunteers and fill out the background check through our MyVolunteer volunteer management system.
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Do I have to be at a school site to complete a volunteer application?
No, you can complete a volunteer application on any computer or mobile device anywhere.
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Why must I have a criminal background check to participate in volunteer activities at my child’s school?
The safety of all students and staff in Wake County Public Schools is our first and top priority. While we encourage, appreciate, and celebrate parental involvement in your child’s schools, it’s important that we avoid any situation in which a volunteer might compromise student safety.
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How much does it cost for a background check?
There is no cost to a volunteer applicant for the background check.
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How long will it take to process my volunteer application?
The normal processing time is 24-72 hours. The process may take longer in high-volume months such as July, August, April, and May.
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What should I do when I enter a school building to volunteer?
You should always go to the main office and sign in before going to any classroom. This helps the school staff know who is in the building. All school visitors, including volunteers, are required to sign in using the school’s Visitor Management System. Please see WCPSS Policy 5020: Visitors to the Schools Policy.
Because each school and classroom varies, you should ask about such things as:
- Directions to the classroom upon entering the building
- The protocol for entering a classroom while the teacher is providing instruction
- Where to place your belongings
- Which restrooms to use
- What your volunteer assignment will be (if unknown) and any specific instructions that you may need to complete your assignment
- Any protocols that you should follow in the classroom.
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How long is my volunteer status valid?
Volunteer approvals are valid from July 1 until Oct. 1 of the following school year. At the end of each school year volunteers will go through a reactivation process. This will include logging into their volunteer account and updating any informational changes.
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If my student changes schools in the middle of the school year, do I need to reapply to be added at their new WCPSS school?
No, you can simply log into your MyVolunteer account and update your school of choice.
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How early should I apply to volunteer if my student has an upcoming field trip?
You should always apply as early as possible. We ask that you submit your application for processing at least 20 calendar days ahead of the scheduled field trip.
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What happens after I am approved to volunteer?
Once approved, you will receive an approval email from the MyVolunteer system. You may then contact your school’s volunteer coordinator to find out where help is needed.
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If I have questions about volunteering, who should I contact?
You should first contact your school’s volunteer coordinator. If further assistance is needed please contact our District Volunteer Coordinator, Mr. Milton Battle at (919) 967-8233 or volunteers@wcpss.net.