10 Vital Elements to Include in Every Background Check for People Connecting with School Children

Conducting background checks on volunteers who come to into schools to work with or speak with children is an all "pros" and no &q...

Conducting background checks on volunteers who come to into schools to work with or speak with children is an all "pros" and no "cons" situation. 

Many countries, states, or school districts have regulations or laws in place that mandate background checks for individuals working or volunteering in schools.   Complying with these regulations is not only necessary from a legal standpoint but also demonstrates a commitment to child protection.

A background check helps to ensure that individuals who interact with children have not committed any crimes or have a history of behavior that may pose a risk to the children's safety.

A background check can help identify individuals with a history of violence, abuse, or criminal behavior. By conducting these checks, schools can prevent potential harm to children and maintain a secure environment for learning and growth.

While background checks cannot guarantee absolute safety, they serve as an important screening tool to help mitigate potential risks and create a safer environment for children in educational settings.  

1. Identity verification: Ensure that the person's true identity is established through verified documentation, such as a valid photo ID or passport.

2. Criminal history check: Conduct a thorough background check to identify any criminal convictions, including offenses against children, violence, or any other related crimes.

3. Employment history review: Examine the individual's employment history, verifying previous job roles and determining whether they have been involved in any incidents or disciplinary actions related to child safety.

4. Reference checks: Contact provided references, such as previous employers, supervisors, or colleagues, to gather insights about the person's character, work ethic, and interactions with children.

5. Child abuse registry check: Cross-reference the individual's name against state or national child abuse registries to identify if they have been implicated in any child abuse or neglect cases.

6. Sex offender registry search: Conduct a search in sex offender registries to determine if the person is listed as a registered sex offender, as per the locality's laws and regulations.

7. Educational qualifications verification: Verify the individual's educational qualifications and certifications, particularly for positions that require specialized knowledge in working with children.

8. Social media screening: Assess the person's social media presence and activities to identify any concerning or inappropriate content related to children, such as explicit photos, abusive language, or evidence of bullying.

9.  Reference Checks: Contacting provided references to gather insights into the individual's character and interactions with children.

10. Personal interview: Hold a face-to-face or virtual interview to communicate directly with the individual, assessing their communication skills, professionalism, and commitment to child safety.