- Barnstable Public Schools
- Background Check FAQ's
Background Check – Frequently Asked Questions
-
Must I have a background check prior to volunteering in my child’s school?
Yes. Criminal background checks will be conducted under the direction of the District’s Human Resources Department prior to the first time a volunteer works with students.
A “volunteer” is any person who offers to perform a service or carry out an activity during the school day or during extended-day, school-related programs, including volunteer chaperones on student field trips or other travel trips, without pay or other material compensation that permits the individual to have access to students.
A “volunteer” also includes athletic coaches and volunteers for District programs who do not receive compensation or remuneration for their services.
-
How often is a background check required?
A background check is good for three school years from the date of processing. You may contact the school office to verify the date of expiration as needed.
-
Am I required to pay a fee for the District to run my background check?
No. The District does not require volunteers to pay costs associated with the background check.
-
What information must I provide for a background check to be run?
In order to run a background check, an individual must provide:
- Full legal name and all prior names
- Date of birth
- Current and prior addresses
- Social security number
- Proof of Identification (Driver’s License or Passport)
-
How long does the process take?
Typically, the background check process takes one to complete. During peak times such as the start of the school year, additional time may be required.
-
Who sees the background check results?
All information gathered during the District’s background check will be kept confidential. The District’s Human Resources Department may need to consult with the District Legal Counsel and/or Superintendent of Schools and Learning regarding the results of the background check.
-
What happens if I do not pass the background check?
If you fail to clear the background check, you will not be able to volunteer for the District. It may be the case that you could be permitted to apply to volunteer at a later date. You will be notified if you fail to clear the background check.