Self Help Projects

Important Volunteer Registration Process Update 2022

We have launched an online volunteer portal for all volunteers to register through. Whether you will be at a school for a one-time event or you are an ongoing Self Help volunteer you must register through the system to continue with your service. Visit the Self Help Volunteer web page for more information and the links to register. Reach out with any questions.

What is a Self Help Project?

A Self Help Project is any project to improve our school buildings or grounds. Self Help projects may be initiated and implemented by any individual or group other than Seattle Public Schools’ Facilities, Capital or Technology departments staff.

Some examples of Self Help Projects are:

• Grounds stewardship and landscape renovation
• School playground improvements
• Creating a mural or mosaic
• Developing or enhancing a school garden
• Community volunteer service day

If you have an idea that’s not listed, check with us to see if it falls under Self Help Projects review.

Self Help Project Forms

Complete a Self Help Project Application or Grounds Stewardship form. We’ll review your project and get back to you with conditions of approval.

• Self Help Application form for Project Approval
• Grounds Stewardship
• Volunteer Sign-in Sheet

About the Self Help Projects Program

The Self Help Projects Program is part of the Facilities Department. The Self Help Program is responsible for coordinating the review, approval, tracking and oversight of all Self Help and Grounds Stewardship Projects. We also partner with the School Learning Garden Network.

All Self Help projects require prior approval by the Seattle Public Schools Self Help Review Team to ensure all projects:

• Are appropriate for our buildings and grounds
• Are compliant with School Board policies
• Are completed to District standards
• Complements school programming
• Provides a record

Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Seattle Public Schools!