- Kent School District
- Apply or Renew
Apply or Renew
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Volunteer During Remote Learning
We welcome parents/guardians, families, and community members to volunteer in our schools.
A volunteer is any person (other than an employee or contractor) authorized by the Kent School District to assist in school learning, activities, competitions, or events.
Our volunteer program is not for the fulfillment of court-required community service or other obligations imposed for violations of laws.
Online Volunteer Activities
While we are in remote learning during the 2020-2021 school year, volunteers may join virtual meetings on Microsoft Teams or Canvas under the supervision of KSD staff. Volunteers may not be left alone with students in an online meeting.
During remote learning, volunteers may be asked to:
- Read to students online.
- Facilitate art projects online.
- Offer other online activities.
Become a Volunteer
As a new volunteer who has never served in a KSD school before, you must create a new Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) account, complete the online application, and pass a background check before beginning service.
Renew Volunteer Status
As a returning volunteer, you must access your existing Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) account online and update your profile authorizing a new background check before each school year.
New Volunteer Process
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1: Collect Required Information
To begin the VIPS application process, you will need:
- A valid state driver’s license, Washington State photo identification (ID), or a U.S. passport.
- Optional: A current Proof of Insurance document is required only if you are applying to be a driver on a field trip.
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2: Take, Save & Prepare Photos
Scan or take a photo of your ID or Proof of Insurance document and save it to your electronic device (as a PDF if possible) before beginning the online application.
The file must be 3MB or smaller. If you need to learn how to resize your photo or have issues uploading it, see frequently asked questions before emailing Volunteers@kent.k12.wa.us.
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3: Create an Account & Complete the Application
As a new volunteer who has never served in a KSD school before, you must create a new Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) account, complete the online application, and pass a background check before beginning service.
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4: Receive Volunteer Status Email
A notification email of volunteer status (approved, under review, or disapproved) will be sent within 24 hours of completing your renewal.
Please check your spam or junk folders in your email if you do not see a notification email.
- If you have questions about the background screening process, please email Tim.Kovich@kent.k12.wa.us.
- If you have questions, concerns, or need technical support, please email Volunteers@kent.k12.wa.us.
- If you have questions about volunteer opportunities at a specific school, please contact the school’s office.
Volunteer Renewal Process
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1: Log in to your existing VIPS account
As a returning volunteer, you must access your existing Volunteers in Public Schools (VIPS) account online and update your profile authorizing a new background check before each school year.
- If you forgot your user ID, please contact the school office where you volunteer.
- If you forgot your password, please click “Forgot Password?” to reset it.
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2: Agree to Volunteer Expectations
Agree to the volunteer expectations by selecting “I Agree” and clicking “OK” under “Acknowledgement.”
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3: Answer Disclosure Questions
Answer all questions under “Disclosure Form” and click “OK.”
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4: Update Contact Information if Needed
Update your contact information if necessary.
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5: Upload New Identification if Needed
You do not need to upload new identification unless it has expired in the last year. If it has expired, delete the current copy and then upload a new copy.
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6: Save Profile
Scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Save Profile” to finish.
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7: Receive Volunteer Status Email
A notification email of volunteer status (approved, under review, or disapproved) will be sent within 24 hours of completing your renewal.
Please check your spam or junk folders in your email if you do not see a notification email.
- If you have questions about the background screening process, please email Tim.Kovich@kent.k12.wa.us.
- If you have questions, concerns, or need technical support, please email Volunteers@kent.k12.wa.us.
- If you have questions about volunteer opportunities at a specific school, please contact the school’s office.
