Volunteer Information
Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Newport Public Schools! Volunteering your time is a wonderful way to support our school community and make a positive impact on our students. Research and experience have shown that volunteers can contribute to improved school attendance, stronger grades and test scores, and better social skills for students. Your time and involvement can make a meaningful difference!
To become an approved volunteer, please complete both the Volunteer Application and the Criminal Record Release Form using the instructions below.
How to Become an Approved Volunteer
Complete the Volunteer Application. Once submitted, your application will automatically be sent to the Volunteer Coordinator at your selected school/building.
Complete the Criminal Record Release Form. Print the form and bring it to either the Newport Police Department or the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office to have your state background check (BCI) processed.
Allow time for processing. Please allow up to 10 business days for your background check to be processed.
Volunteer Background Checks
In accordance with Rhode Island General Laws §§ 16-2-18.4 and 16-2-18.5, Newport Public Schools requires all volunteers to complete a state background check (BCI) before beginning volunteer service and annually thereafter.
If no disqualifying information is identified, the Bureau of Criminal Identification, Rhode Island State Police, or local police department will notify the prospective volunteer and the District. Under Rhode Island General Law § 16-2-18.4, disqualifying information includes offenses identified under § 23-17-37, as well as offenses listed under §§ 11-37-8.1 and 11-37-8.3.
Important: Volunteers may not begin service with Newport Public Schools until all required forms and background checks have been completed and approved by Human Resources.