Docent Service Log Instructions

HOW TO RECORD YOUR HOURS

ON THE DOCENT SERVICE LOG

Effective October 1, 2026, the Salisbury Zoo will collect and track docent hours via an online form. Completing the online Docent Service Log (DSL) instead of a paper form will allow staff to provide docents more frequent and accurate service hours reports, as well as provide improved data for Zoo reports and grant proposals.The majority of docents are expected to use the DSL, but accommodations will be made for those who cannot manage completing the online form (please let Michelle know if you need to use the paper form).

Note: It’s still important for safety reasons that staff know when you are onsite at the Zoo. Docents using the DSL should also complete the check in/out board near the paper time sheet when onsite. All you need to do is put your name and a check mark under “IN” when you arrive and under “OUT” when you leave.

Instructions for opening and completing the DSL:

1. On your computer, click this Docent Service Log link or use your phone camera to read the QR code above to open the DSL.

2. Simply answer the questions as directed and hit submit.

Tips for creating the most useful submissions:

• Fill out the DSL AFTER you have completed the hours you are recording, preferably within a few days of the activity and no later than the last day of the month in which you did the activity.

• If you did more than one activity on the same day and/or there was a break between your volunteer shifts, please complete separate entries for each shift.

• Use only 15-minute increments. Round up or down to the nearest quarter hour.

• Time is entered in the 00:00 format. For example, 3pm must be entered as 03:00 pm.

• Be sure to spell your name correctly and to use the correct program and location names.

• The DSL can be completed on your computer or your phone, wherever you are, at any time.

• If you have any issues with the DSL, please email salisburyzoodocents@gmail.com to explain the issue and work it out.

• If you need to edit your response, please email salisburyzoodocents@gmail.com to work with staff to make the change.

• Each submission should take only 1-2 minutes to complete.

• If using the link instead of the QR code, access to the DSL will be quicker and easier if you do one of the following (let staff know if you need more instructions on how to do either):

• Bookmark the link on your favorite web browser.

• Create a shortcut on your computer’s desktop and/or your phone’s home page.                                                                                                                                              

CR 9/18/26