Garfield High School

Welcome to the Garfield High School Volunteer Program!

Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer at Garfield High School! Volunteers are an essential part of our community, and your time, dedication, and skills make a lasting impact on our students. This guide will help you navigate the application process step by step.

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How to Complete Your Volunteer Application

1. Step 1: Complete This Garfield Volunteer Application
   The first step is to complete and submit this Garfield High School Volunteer Application. This form collects information about your interests, availability, and desired volunteer role.

   Important: Once you hit the Submit button, you will automatically be redirected to the Seattle Public Schools (SPS) Volunteer Page to complete the district-level requirements.

2. Step 2: Complete the SPS Volunteer Application Process
   On the SPS Volunteer Page, you must complete the following steps to meet district safety and compliance standards:

   a. Create or Update Your SPS Volunteer Profile

   • New Volunteers: Follow the prompts to create a new volunteer profile. Be sure to select Garfield High School as the school where you will be volunteering.
   • Returning Volunteers: Log into your existing profile. Update your information, confirm Garfield High School as your selected location, and ensure all fields are complete.

   b. Complete the Online Training

   • Take the "Preventing Sexual Abuse of Children and Youth" training (approximately 20 minutes).
   • This training provides critical information on recognizing and preventing risks to ensure student safety.
   • Answer the questions included in the training to confirm your understanding.

   c. Review the SPS Volunteer Handbook

   • Carefully read through the handbook to understand expectations, policies, and guidelines.
   • Topics include appropriate behavior, maintaining boundaries, student privacy, and tips for effective volunteering.

   d. Submit a Background Check

   • As part of the application, you must complete a background check.
   • If you have lived in Washington State for less than three years, additional documentation (e.g., proof of residency or previous out-of-state ID) will be required. Follow the instructions provided on the SPS page.

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What Happens After You Complete the Application

1. District Review
   Once you complete the steps on the SPS Volunteer Page (profile creation, training, handbook review, and background check), SPS staff will review your application.

2. Garfield High School Approval
   After the district approves your application, Garfield High School will review your profile and add you to the Approved Volunteer List.

3. Notification and Scheduling

   • You will receive a notification confirming your approval.
   • Once approved, you will receive instructions on scheduling volunteer opportunities at Garfield High School based on your availability and interests.

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Already an Approved Volunteer?

• You don't need to start over if you have already been approved as a Seattle Public Schools volunteer and your status is current.
• You can use this platform to schedule volunteer opportunities at Garfield High School.
• To confirm your role or get help with scheduling, you can contact our Volunteer Coordinator for guidance.

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Important Information

• Approval Timeline: The entire process, from submitting this application to receiving final approval, typically takes 2–3 weeks. 
• Returning Volunteers: If you have previously volunteered with SPS, you must log into your existing profile, update your information, and confirm your role at Garfield High School to ensure your status is current.
• Translation Options: The SPS Volunteer Page includes a Google Translate tool for viewing application materials in multiple languages.

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Need Help or Have Questions?

If you have any questions or experience difficulties at any stage of the process, please contact our Volunteer Coordinator:

Jhitana L. Ball
Volunteer Coordinator
Email: jlball@seattleschools.org

Ms. Ball can help you troubleshoot, clarify requirements, schedule opportunities, or answer any other questions about the program.

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Thank You for Your Dedication!

We are thrilled to welcome you to the Garfield High School Volunteer Program. Your commitment helps create a safe, supportive, and inspiring environment for all students. Thank you for choosing to make a positive impact in our community!

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