What They Are, Why They Matter, and How to Get Yours for the New School Year

As the new school year begins, it’s the perfect time to make sure your volunteer clearances are up to date. Whether you’re planning to help in the classroom, chaperone a class trip, or report for duty as a WatchD.O.G.S. or M.O.M.S. volunteer, Pennsylvania law and Wilson School District policy require all volunteers to have current clearances on file. These clearances help ensure a safe, secure environment for every student—and in our school district, each of them remain valid for five years from the date they are issued.

Before volunteering, you’ll need to submit several state, district, and in some cases federal documents to the CT Office. These include the Act 34 PA Criminal Background Check, the Act 151 PA Child Abuse History Clearance, and either the Act 114 Volunteer Affidavit or FBI Criminal Background Check (fingerprinting), depending on your residency status. Volunteers who have lived in Pennsylvania for the past ten consecutive years may submit the Volunteer Affidavit; all others must complete fingerprinting.

In addition to these clearances, volunteers must review Wilson School Board Policies #916 and #806 and then complete two district forms: the Wilson SD School Volunteer Disclosure Statement and the Wilson SD Volunteer Acknowledgement. These documents confirm that volunteers understand and agree to the district’s expectations for student safety and conduct.

Most clearances can be completed online through Pennsylvania’s official state websites, and fingerprinting appointments are available at approved locations throughout the region. Once you’ve gathered all required documents, submit them to the CT Office for processing.

If you’re unsure whether your clearances are still valid, contact Mrs. Bonargo in the office or email Mrs. VanOstenbridge at vanpam@wilsonsd.org to verify what’s already on file. For questions about the process or what you need to submit, email Mrs. VanOstenbridge at vanpam@wilsonsd.org .

Wilson School District is grateful for the time, care, and enthusiasm our volunteers bring to students each year. Completing your clearances helps us maintain a safe, welcoming environment where every child can thrive.

For additional information, please visit the Clearances page under Quick Links on the CT website.