Frequently Asked Questions
Review our FAQs below, if you cannot find the answer you're looking for you can connect with the Volunteer Coordinator for your school site. Or connect with volunteers@okcps.org
Who should apply to be a volunteer?
Volunteer” is defined as an adult (18 years of age or older) who sincerely contributes to the achievement of students, teachers, administrators, and other district staff in classrooms, schools, and/or other district offices and does not receive compensation for their work. Volunteers can include parents, guardians, adult family members, and/or business and community members.
What is being checked when I submit my application and go through the background check?
All prospective volunteers authorize OKCPS to conduct the background check when they complete the volunteer application. OKCPS uses Raptor, a visitor management system to process the information submitted and runs it against government nationwide databases to check for misdemeanor and/or felony violations.
Are there paper applications available to fill out for the Volunteer Application?
No, due to the nature and platform for our background check protocol we require all applications to be submitted electronically HERE
I was a volunteer with OKCPS last year, why do I need to reapply?
Volunteer applications need to be resubmitted so we can run background checks on each volunteer annually. Volunteer status is deactivated on June 30th each year and reapplying to volunteer is encouraged on July 1st. Apply here
I've applied to be a volunteer and I haven't gotten a response back yet, what do I do?
Our volunteer applications can take up to 10 business days to process. If it has been more than 10 business days, please check your email inbox's spam folder for the approval notice. If you cannot find an approval email, you can call or email the school site that you've applied to and they will be able to look you up in the volunteer management system. If the school site doesn't have a definitive answer please email the Community Relations Department at volunteers@okcps.org.
There's a background check needed to become a volunteer, do I need a Social Security number to apply?
Yes a Social Security number is required to apply to volunteer. If you do not have one, please call your preferred school directly and ask to speak with the Volunteer Coordinator.
My children are students at an OKCPS school, do I need to fill out a Volunteer Application?
Yes, if you intend to volunteer at the schools.
For example, chaperoning a field trip, helping out with lunch duty, making copies in the office, etc. No, if you're just going to the school to pick up your children and not engaging in specific school activities.
My children are students at an OKCPS school and I want to attend a field trip with them, do I need to fill out a Volunteer Application?
Yes, if you intend to be a chaperone.
No, if you intend to act a parent only and have your own means of transporation to and from the field trip.
Is there a cost for me to apply to be a volunteer?
No, there is no cost for individuals/groups to apply to volunteer. The district covers the cost of all background checks.
What is the minimum age requirement for volunteers?
Volunteers with OKCPS need to be at least 18 years old. Check out our Board Policy for more information on requirements & guidelines for volunteers.
Is the volunteer application only in English?
No! The volunteer application is also offered in Spanish. Spanish Volunteer Application Link
For alternative language needs please visit our Translation Services Page
Can someone help me fill out the application?
Yes! As long as you utilize your own email to receive the application approval/denial.
What do I need to bring with me when I go to volunteer?
Every time you go to volunteer you'll need to bring your ID to be signed into our Volunteer Management System. Also, depending on the volunteer opportunity please bring appropriate clothing/supplies.
For example, if you're volunteering outdoors in the colder months, please dress appropriately. If you're volunteering to maintain a school's landscaping/gardening, please dress appropriately and bring gardening tools if necessary
I was denied as a volunteer and I want to see a copy of my background check, what do I do?
If you haven't already received a copy of your background check, or have had issues accessing the results please email clientservices@jdp.com. When JD Palatine is asking for your Social Security Number, put in the last four digits of your SSN & please submit your correct zip code.
I was denied as a volunteer, what could've shown in my background check to lead to my denial?
Please see our Volunteer Policy's chart for a comprehensive outline of approval vs denial parameters.