HDSB Volunteer Management Program:

Halton District School Board Volunteer Management Program:
Executive Summary 2002

Background:
The Volunteer Practices and Screening Procedures was developed over a two year period (1998-2000) in consultation with several boards that had developed these procedures for volunteers in schools. During this time period, many boards of education developed formal volunteer management programs and screening processes in response the heightened awareness of providing as many safety protections for children and adults in schools as possible. Parents want assurances that the adults interacting with their children in organized sports and other leisure and learning activities behave appropriately with the best interests of their children in mind. These expectations apply to the many volunteers who generously donate their time and talents to work in our schools.

Part of an effective volunteer management program ensures that volunteers are working in an organized, structured environment. The Volunteer Practices and Screening Procedures, 2002 is a multi-step approach involving the following:

· Determining the volunteering needs of the school
· Recruiting, interviewing, selecting
· A criminal background check and vulnerable sector screening check
· Training and orientation
· Ongoing communication
· Supervision and review

Part of the manual addresses the rights and responsibilities of volunteers, legal and liability issues and support for the volunteer should a problem occur. This information helps volunteers feel confident about doing their work in our schools and confidence in the abilities of fellow volunteers.

Your contributions to our students and staff enrich our educational programs and services that promote student success and achievement. Thank you