2026-2027 VOLUNTEER/MENTOR (Lunch Buddy, School Based Volunteers, and Mentors)

"Excellence through Teamwork"

Fairfield County School District Human Resources MENTOR COMMITMENT AND PROCEDURES READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY BEFORE SIGNING AND DATING THIS APPLICATION. Screening: For the safety of students, all prospective mentors will be asked to complete an Adult Mentor Application and provide a photo I.D. All prospective volunteers will be given a "Wants and Warrants" check pursuant to SC Code Ann. § 63-11-70. The District, in its discretion and without a statement of reason may require a complete background check on any mentor at any time. In programs where a mentor is alone with a student(s), fingerprinting and a full state and federal background che ck are required. The school district will cover these costs. Confidentiality: Student confidentiality is protected by the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ("FERPA"). What you hear and observe about students, families and staff while mentorin g in a school is confidential. Repeating a seemingly harmless comment can lead to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. For schools to provide the best environment for learning, everyone's privacy must be respected. Liability: The School District of Fairfield County is proud to provide liability coverage and an accident policy for its mentors, which will provide up to $1500.00 after any other valid and collectable insurance. In order to have this protection, all mentors must sign in on the school's volun teer/visitor sign in sheet (in every office) every time they mentor. Mentors are not covered by Workers Compensation. Child Neglect and Abuse Reporting: School mentors are encouraged to report any suspected child neglect or abuse. If you suspect child abuse, immediately contact the school principal or school counselor. Supervision: Mentors perform under the direction and supervision of school personnel. Mentors should know and follow school policies and rules. The District, in its discretion and without a statement of reasons, may suspend any mentor from further mentor/volunteer activities pending any background check, and may remove an individual from serving as a mentor at any time. No statement by the District establishes a property right to perform mentor/volunteer work. Communication: If you are unable to make it to school or a mentoring location when you are expected, please call the school or parent(s)/guardian(s) and leav e a message. Similarly, school staff will contact you if your time is cancelled or changed for any unforeseen reasons. You may contact: _ at ___ Person School Location

FCSD Human Resources "Excellence through Teamwork"

Student/Mentor Relationships: The School District of Fairfield County requires that an initial meeting takes place between the mentor, appropriate school personnel, parent(s)/guardian(s), and the student. The purpose of the meeting is to outline goals an d objectives of the mentoring relationship. The specific goals will outline the mentor/student relationship. Mentoring as part of the approved District program is limited to the school environment. Any arrangements the parents and mentor make for contac t between the mentor and student outside the school environment are not considered a part of the approved District mentor program. I affirm that I have read and understand all the information on the Adult Mentor Application and that all of the information I have provided in this application is true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that The School District of Fairfield County reserves the right to verify all information on this application form and that any false statements or failure to disclose information may be sufficient to disqualify me as a mentor. I hereby authorize The School District of Fairfield County to obtain information relating to my current and/or previous employment, education and personal history records. ______ Mentor's Signature Date

______ Administrator's Signature Date

Form should be sent directly to Human Resources from the school.