Volunteer & Partnership

All are welcome to volunteer in our schools; parents, community members & students. 

Albemarle County Public Schools recognizes the danger that sex offenders pose to student safety. Under state law, sex offenders are not permitted to be on school property during school hours without a court order. Every volunteer is screened using the Sex Offender and Crimes against Minors Registry, as required by School Board Policy KN, Sex Offender Registry Notification .

Search the Virginia Sex Offender Registry »
(always check "Include contiguous zip codes") ​

Volunteering is a great way to get involved in your community and make a difference.  If you are interested in volunteering with ACPS, please complete the online application process.  The online form takes approximately 5 to 15 minutes to complete.  All volunteers are required to complete the online application which includes a volunteer code of ethics, review of policies and procedures, confidentiality agreement, volunteer compensation and liability agreement and submission of photo identification.  The application process includes a safety check that screens volunteers against sex offender registries.  Applicants will be asked to identify the activities they are interested in supporting, the school(s) where they want to volunteer and if they are volunteering on behalf of a partner organization.

Whether you are volunteering on a regular basis or for a one-time project or event, you are required to complete the online application process. 

When volunteer applications have been processed, applicants receive an email confirmation upon approval.  This process can take up to two (2) weeks from the time the application is completed.  You cannot volunteer or provide services in any capacity until this notice is received.  Volunteer status is good for one (1) academic year.  Approved volunteers will receive an annual email notice to renew.  For that reason, be sure to update your email address with us if it changes.

All volunteers must complete the following before volunteering in our schools:

• Watch the VDOE Recognizing Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect video and read the ACPS Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting policy 
• Should read and follow the Acceptable Use of Technology policy
• Must read and follow the confidentiality of student and school information policy.
• Review the Tobacco Products and Nicotine Vapor products policy
• Volunteers work under the direction and supervision of school personnel and should know and follow school policies and the Volunteer Code of Conduct.

For more specific details on expectations and duties, your Community & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator may provide additional orientation. 

Classroom volunteers are encouraged to be familiar with the following:

• the building layout and parking facilities
• classroom policies
• what to expect of you as a volunteer
• what to do if you are absent
• fire drills and safety rules

We want to make the best match we can between volunteer opportunities and your interests and talents. 

If you want to learn more about specific opportunities, please contact the Community & Volunteer Engagement Coordinator listed for your school of interest or select the Volunteer Opportunities tab above.

Tutor:  A tutor may work one-on-one with a student or with small groups of students who need to reinforce basic skills in an academic subject.  One example is a Book Buddy who reads with and to students.

Mentor:  Mentors typically work one-on-one with a student who needs special attention and assistance.  Their major task is to motivate the student to stay focused on school.  A mentor provides academic reinforcement, sets short-term goals, serves as a role model, and provides encouragement and friendship that helps build the student’s self-esteem.  One example is a Breakfast or Lunch Buddy.

ESOL – Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages:  ESOL tutors help non-English speaking students increase their skills in understanding, speaking, and writing English and in the acquisition of basic critical academic skills.   Volunteers do not need to speak the students’ native languages.  Bilingual volunteers are needed to help interpret and communicate with families.

Community Resource:   Persons who have special skills, language abilities, hobbies, occupations, collections, or have traveled to other parts of the country or world may be invited to share their experiences with classroom(s) at requested times. 

Classroom Helper :  Volunteers work closely with classroom teachers and staff assisting in various projects, keeping records, preparing instructional materials, and interacting with students. 

Clerical Assistant:  Clerical assistants may help with typing, computer entry, copying, booking, record keeping, telephone, and other office work. 

Library/Media Helper: Volunteers in the school library/media center may help at the circulation desk, catalog and shelve books, use a computer, mend books or operate audiovisual equipment.  They may also read to students.

Chaperone:  Volunteer chaperones have the opportunity to enjoy museums, exhibits, musicals, and plays as they accompany students and teachers on field trips.   

Computer Helpers:  Computer helpers share their computer skills and knowledge with students and/or school staff.  Some prepare newsletters or other school publicity.

Activities Helper:  Activities volunteers help support school extracurricular clubs, groups, and events. Areas of involvement include participating in activities such as the PTO and booster clubs, serving as volunteer coaches, and assisting with sports, music, or drama productions. 

Groundskeeper/Building Maintenance: If you love the outdoors and have fix-it skills, schools can use your expertise to beautify the campus or help maintenance staff with special projects.

At-Home Helpers: Often volunteers are needed to help with “at-home” projects such as preparing newsletters, phone recruiting of other volunteers, or helping classroom teachers.  Those who do volunteer work at home or work with a club activity should complete a volunteer application and keep a written record of their hours of service.