Welcome!
We welcome volunteers at West Friendship and hope that this information will acquaint you with the goals and responsibilities of the volunteer program at our school. First, please review the HCPSS websites for system-wide policies and information on the following:
School Visitation Form
All visitors and volunteers must sign-in, and adhere to the expectations outlined in the HCPSS School Visitation form. One form may be kept on file for regular volunteers.
Confidentiality Training Course
Thank you for your interest in volunteering within the Howard County School System! We value our volunteers and the contributions they make to our students and schools.
According to HCPSS Board Policy, all parent volunteers must complete a Confidentiality Training Course about protecting the privacy of our students, staff, and schools.
Child Abuse and Neglect Training
Child abuse and child neglect are against the law. Educators, health care workers, police officers, etc. are required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect. In addition, school volunteers, community members, and others are expected to report if there is a reason to believe that abuse or neglect possibly occurred. The Child Abuse and Neglect Training course must be reviewed by all volunteers. Once the material has been reviewed, you must complete, print, and submit the certificate of completion to the school office prior to volunteering with students.
Three Ways to Start a Terrific Day…
1. Let Us Know You Are Here
All visitors are required to sign-in at the office before going anywhere in the building or on school property. You will need your driver’s license to sign-in. In addition, we ask that you sign-out at the end of your time with us.
2. Limit Cell Phone Use
Please turn your cell phone off or, at least, to vibrate. Volunteers are asked not to use their cell phones in the classrooms, as cell phones can create disruptions and be distracting to a learning environment.
3. Be Positive!
Volunteers are to be positive role models at all times. Please treat others with respect and patience throughout the day.
Confidentiality . . .
As a volunteer, you are required by law to protect the confidentiality of all student information that you see or hear while volunteering. FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), a federal law, as well as state regulations, protect student information.
It is essential that you are careful not to divulge any confidential information that has been received during your time spent volunteering at school.
If you should become aware of information regarding a student that you feel needs to be shared, concerns should be directed to a school administrator. The school administrator will determine to whom this information will be disseminated.
Learning Environment
In an effort to support a school environment that is conducive to learning, volunteers are asked to refrain from bringing a child or children with them to volunteer.
We love small children but siblings and/or daycare children, etc. are not allowed to accompany you during your volunteer time.
For Your Convenience
Independent restrooms are located near the Media Center, in both the front and back halls.
Mutual Respect
All meetings/conferences with staff must be scheduled in advance and may not occur during time with students (including arrival/dismissal times). Please do not attempt to conference with your child's teacher(s) during your volunteer time.
We look forward to having you volunteer! If you are scheduled to volunteer on any given day and are unable to be at school, please call the office as soon as possible.