San Juan Unified values volunteers in our schools and community. To ensure a positive experience and protect the safety of our students, staff and others the district implements a volunteer verification process. 

All volunteers must complete the verification process BEFORE they can be allowed to volunteer on a school campus or at a school-related activity. 

Volunteers may be required or requested to have a background review completed depending on what they'll be doing. Background reviews consist of completing a form and visiting a local office to submit fingerprints for verification. The district then receives reports from the California Department of Justice and/or Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

Who needs a background review? 

Any volunteer who has the potential to provide services, even momentarily, outside the supervision of a district staff person must have a background review completed. 

Volunteers who will be in close contact with students such as those who are providing transportation for trips, athletic coaches, and certain interns or mentors require an enhanced review. 

How does a volunteer get a background review? 

Volunteers must first complete the volunteer verification form found at www.sanjuan.edu/volunteer. If they have not previously completed a background review and will be in a volunteer role that requires it, they will receive instructions and the necessary forms as part of the verification process. 

Is there a cost to the volunteer for a background review? 

No. San Juan Unified pays the cost of a background review for all volunteers. 

• Sign in immediately upon arrival (at the school office or other designated sign-in area) each time you visit a campus
• Wear or show appropriate identification 
• Act in the best personal and educational interest of every child encountered
• Maintain confidentiality outside of the school; do not discuss student issues, concerns, or behaviors with anyone except teachers or school administrators
• If you have concerns about student welfare or safety, discuss those concerns with teachers or the school administrator
• Promptly inform the teacher and school office when you are unable to attend or when you are no longer interested or available to volunteer. 

A self-help project is a community-driven project that improves school grounds or contributes in some other way to the school environment.

If you are interested in completing a self-help project, please see the principal or site administrator for additional information regarding the district's self-help application process.