Volunteering

We are so appreciative of volunteers.  This document serves as a resource to help navigate the volunteer approval process that all volunteers must go through to volunteer within CPS. ​
Steps for Volunteer Approval
​New Volunteer
*Find step by step guidance for CiviCore here
  • Go to https://chicagopublicschools.civicore.com/index.php?action=english to complete and submit the initial application 
    • Important note:  Ensure your entry matches your ID.  Your ID must match your name entered exactly, i.e. if you have a middle initial on your ID, it must be on the application. 
  • Use the login email address and password you created in the initial application to log into your account. From there, submit an application for this year and select which specific schools to apply for.
  • Follow steps in email that will be sent to you from volunteer@cps.edu.
  • Bring your ID into the school’s main office. ​
Returning
​*Find step by step guidance for CiviCore here
  • Go to https://chicagopublicschools.civicore.com/index.php?action=english and sign into your account
  • From there, submit an application for this year and select which specific schools to apply for. 
  • Important notes
    • Ensure your entry matches your ID.  Your ID must match your name entered exactly, i.e. if you have a middle initial on your ID, it must be on the application. 
    • A new background check is required every year
  • Follow steps in email that will be sent to you from volunteer@cps.edu.
  • Bring your ID into the school’s main office. ​

​Important Notes
Level 1 Volunteers:
New this year is the DCFS clearance that is included in the biometrics, meaning volunteers will have to re-fingerprint. Typically fingerprints are only required once.  TB tests expire every 2 years and new results will need to be submitted to Volunteer Programs (volunteer@cps.edu). In addition to the fingerprints, all level 1 volunteers will need to complete 5 hours of Safe Schools Online Training.

Level 1 & 2 Volunteers: 
New this year volunteers will be required to log their start and end times in Civicore each time they volunteer.  Directions to do this are located here.

Review the Volunteer Code of Conduct prior to volunteering.  Volunteers must abide by this.


FAQs
What are the requirements for volunteering?

Prospective volunteers must register with Family and Community Engagement (FACE) by completing the required CPS volunteer application forms and satisfying the requirements of the applicant review process.

As part of the application process, you will receive an email asking you to complete a background check and submit the report. CPS pays the fee for the background check. Background checks are run annually for returning Level 1 volunteers.
You will also be asked to submit TB test results that are less than two years old. We will provide information about where you can be tested. CPS does not cover the cost of the TB test.

What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2 volunteer levels?  We offer two different levels of volunteer involvement and commitment:
  • Examples of Level I Volunteers
    • Overnight field trip chaperones
    • Mentors
    • Tutors
    • Coaches
    • Non-supervised classroom assistants
  • Examples of Level II Volunteers
    • Day field trip chaperones, supervised
    • Assistants in schools with administrative duties
    • Other volunteer activities in contact with students while supervised

Which volunteer level (1 or 2) is preferred?
We highly recommend getting level 1 clearance as it ensures you have clearance for all volunteer opportunities.

I plan to return next year as a volunteer.  What do I need to do?
All volunteer approvals expire yearly on June 30th. Volunteers who plan to return for the following school year must notify their school by July 1 and will need to add the new school year they are recertifying for on their application in Civicore.  

I was a level 1 volunteer last year.  Why do I have to get fingerprinted again?
DCFS clearance is now included in biometrics, so you have to re-fingerprint.  This year this is new.  Typically, you do not have to get re-fingerprinted.  A background check is completed yearly, but previous prints can be utilized.  A TB test is required every 2 years.  

How do I do the background check?  
After submitting your application, you will receive another email with the fingerprint forms. You will take this document to any Accurate Biometrics location to be fingerprinted.  You can find a list of sites here:  http://www.accuratebiometrics.com/.  Once fingerprinted, input your TCN number (found on your Accurate Biometrics receipt) in your CiviCore profile.
Results will be sent directly to CPS. Please note that the results of the fingerprints can take 2-30 days to receive.  
​
I have students at 2 different CPS schools.  I am approved at my other student’s school.  Am I set to volunteer at any CPS school?
No.  You have to get approval at each school.  To do this, you will need to add each school you would like to volunteer at to your application in Civicore and bring your current, government issued ID to the main office.
 
I am a CPS employee, do I have to do this?  
CPS employees who volunteer at schools other than where they are employed must complete a volunteer application to be eligible to participate. (This process allows CPS to verify employment. Active employees do not go through the background check process).

What do I have to do for the TB Test?
If you have TB Test results less than two years old, you may submit these results. Otherwise, you may see your current doctor or visit any Walgreens or CVS Pharmacy that offers the test. You may also use this TB Test Form. Submit your TB Test results via email to volunteer@cps.edu. Please visit the school's office if you need assistance with scanning and emailing this document.

I’m having issues with my application or need help.  Who do I contact?
For questions about the volunteer opportunities and your application, please email volunteer@cps.edu or call 773-553-1544.