I work full-time; am I still able to volunteer?
Some organizations, including the Commonwealth of MA, have release programs which allow employees to leave time for community service. Other volunteers who do not have this option occasionally use their lunch period for volunteering. There are also opportunities for volunteering before or after work depending on your work schedule.
Is training required/provided?
Training is required to participate in the School-Based Mentoring or Early Literacy programs. Training sessions are scheduled throughout the year. A schedule/more information can be found here. An online mentoring training is also available. General orientation and Read Aloud training is also available in person or online. All training is provided by SSV at no cost to volunteers.
Can I choose the school where I want to volunteer?
Yes, whenever possible we will place volunteers in their preferred school.
Where can I volunteer?
We place volunteers in the 58 public schools in Springfield.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
Volunteers should be at least 18 years of age. However, in some cases high school students who are younger than 18 may be able to volunteer with parent permission or through a school-sponsored project.
Is there a minimum time commitment?
Most volunteer positions require a one hour per week commitment. However, there are volunteer opportunities that require less.
What roles do volunteers perform in the schools?
Volunteers may participate in one or more of Springfield School Volunteers’ four core programs: Read Aloud; School-Based Mentoring; Academic Support. Volunteers may also assist in the classroom, library or office; serve as a field trip chaperone or on the PTO; volunteer as a career speaker or science fair judge; or otherwise assist as requested by a school.
How do I sign up to be a volunteer?
You may sign up by completing the online application and then following the instructions to complete a CORI (Criminal Offender Record Information) check. You will be notified once your CORI has cleared and will be contacted regarding next steps.
I already had a CORI check done. Do I need another one?
Per the Springfield Public Schools’ CORI policy, any individual serving as a volunteer or other type of vendor (i.e. therapists working with SPS students) in a Springfield public school must have a CORI check completed by the SPS office of Safety and Security on file with Springfield School Volunteers. If you have any questions or concerns you may contact the office of Safety and Security directly at 787-7100 Ext: 55391.
