Q: Why do the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District require clearances in certain volunteer situations?
A: To ensure the safety of all students, Howard-Winn requires any non-employee having access to students and to the school building during the school day to comply with the School Board Policy.
Q: How do I find out if I have been approved?
A: The personnel at our schools only receive a list of individuals who have been approved. They do not receive a list of individuals who have applied or who have not been approved. If you are approved, you will be placed on the approved volunteer/visitor list. If you have not been approved, you will either receive a letter requesting that you provide the detailed police report related to your arrest, or you will be provided a letter indicating that you have been denied approval.
Q: Why does the criteria state, “regardless of conviction”?
A: While a court might determine the conduct was not illegal, some individuals do not receive a conviction as a result of technicalities of the law and/or if charges are dropped. In some of these circumstances the individual actually committed the illegal act but is not being held legally responsible. Therefore, the actual conduct of the individual, particularly for an arrest related an act of aggression, is reviewed as documented in a police report and a decision is made to ensure student safety based upon the conduct not the conviction.
Q: Where does the District get the background check information?
A: IOWA DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE Crime Information Bureau
Q; How often do I need to update my clearances?
A: Background checks are conducted every 1-3 years.
Q: Can I appeal the decision?
A: There is not an appeal process for volunteers and visitor background check determinations. The decision of the Superintendent is final.
If you have any additional questions, please contact the principal of the school where you wish to volunteer.
