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Questions and Answers About the Kershaw County School District’s Volunteer Process

Why is the district implementing new volunteer procedures?

The Kershaw County School District is committed to providing safe school environments. As part of that process, all persons who interact with students are required to undergo a review process. In order to provide additional information about persons who have possible contact with students while not being supervised by an employee, the district has developed two levels for volunteer service.

What does Level 1 mean? Level 2?

Level 1 volunteers are those persons who interact with students under the supervision of a KCSD employee. Examples include guest speakers, field day volunteers, classroom helpers or School Improvement Council/PTO members. Level 2 volunteers are those persons who have possible unsupervised interaction with students such as field trip chaperones, tutors or mentors.

Where do I get an application and where do I return it?

The Volunteer Application is available on the Kershaw County School District website at www.kershaw.k12.sc.us.  You may also get a copy from any local school.

How long does it take to find out if I am approved as a volunteer?

Please allow two weeks for processing. Completed volunteer forms should be returned to the main school where you plan to volunteer.

If I plan to volunteer at more than one school, do I have to fill out more than one application?

No, a volunteer has to only fill out one application. All approved volunteers are kept on a districtwide list that can be accessed by the volunteer coordinator at each school. (Note: SLED checks completed by Feb. 1, 2012 will be good through the end of the 2013-14 school year.)

How often do I need to reapply to maintain my status on the districtwide volunteer list?

Volunteer approval is good for two years. Persons need to complete a new volunteer application every two years in order to stay on the districtwide approved volunteer list, regardless of whether they are a Level 1 or Level 2 volunteer.

Can I use a recent SLED check instead of having to pay another $25?

Yes. Persons with a SLED check that has been completed within 12 months of the date of the application can attach that to the volunteer application and not have to pay the $25.

I heard a rumor that I need a SLED check to eat lunch with my child. Is that true?

Do I need a SLED check to drop off cupcakes in my child’s class? Be on the PTO? No, a SLED check is only required for possible unsupervised interaction with students and would not be applicable in any of these instances.

If I am a current KCSD employee, do I need to complete a volunteer application?

No, current employees do not since they completed SLED checks when hired and required by Board policy to report an arrest or charge related to a criminal offense to the District within five calendar days of the incident.

Who should I contact if I have additional questions?

For additional questions, please contact Recruitment/Professional Development Director Dr. John Gardner at john.gardner@kcsdschools.net or 803-432-8416.