Application Renewal and Updates for Returning Volunteers

Thank you for your past volunteer service – we are excited you are interested in continuing to volunteer with Seattle Public Schools or take on a new volunteer role!

Before You Begin, Check If You Have a Volunteer Application on File with SPS

Please visit our volunteer portal guide for step-by-step instructions – section titled “How to verify if you already have a volunteer portal account“

Updates to the Volunteer Placement Process for the 2025-2026 School Year

Please note that this year, our volunteer application and renewal process will begin after a prospective volunteer has matched with the staff member requesting support. The new process improves student safety, streamlines the application and approval process, and ensures efficient use of limited central staff resources. Last year, 1,200 private service providers fraudulently used our volunteer application system to clear their own staff, including enrichment vendors, therapists, and contractors. Additionally, at least 2,550 individuals who completed the application process ultimately did not end up volunteering.  Through these changes, we aim to reduce volunteer approval timelines from five to two weeks this school year, ensuring better service to our educators and students despite rising budget constraints.

Steps to Renew Volunteer Application

Four weeks minimum are required for renewal. Volunteers must update their applications at least four (4) weeks before the expected volunteer service start date. Seven weeks is recommended for overnight field trips.

SPS transitioned to an online volunteer application system in August 2018. If you completed an electronic volunteer application after this date, you can access your expired or active application through the volunteer portal. If you are a returning volunteer but have previously only completed a paper application, please follow the instructions for new volunteers.

Follow steps 1-3 below even if your application was approved prior to the current school year.

Step 1: Review the Volunteer Handbook

Carefully review the online Volunteer Handbook to learn about laws and policies volunteers are required to follow, volunteer rights, and tips for successful volunteering. 

Step 2: Renew or update your volunteer application (renewal includes Background Check)

Access your volunteer information through the volunteer portal, where you can:

• Transfer your existing application to other SPS schools.
• Approve a new background check up to 30 days before it expires (required every two years). More information about background checks for volunteers.
• Update your criminal history, if applicable.
• Add or update your contact or emergency information.

If you experience problems updating or renewing your volunteer application, visit our volunteer portal guide for tips.

Step 3: School Approval

The school volunteer program liaison will verify your information before your first volunteer shift at a new school. If the school volunteer program liaison confirms your identity and verifies that you completed the correct background check type, they will add your name to their school’s “Approved Volunteers List.”

If you have questions about your application or background check, call the school office or email the volunteer program liaison.