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East Port Orchard Elementary

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Volunteer

Volunteer

Give the Gift of TimeMullenix Ridge crossing guard, Mr. Joe holding a sign that reads "Joe's Crossing" in front of a covered walkway.

Volunteering at the South Kitsap School District is an incredible way to make a lasting impact on our students, staff, and community. We are deeply grateful for the time and energy our volunteers dedicate, as their support plays a vital role in fostering an environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging, believing in one another, and becoming their best selves. By giving your time, you help create meaningful connections and provide valuable assistance that enhances the educational experience for all. Together, we can build a stronger, more supportive community where every student thrives.

Steps to Become a School Volunteer

  1. Complete the Volunteer Application:
    Start by filling out the volunteer application, which is available here, at the district office, or at any school.
  2. Submit a Copy of Your ID:
    Along with your application, provide a copy of your ID for verification purposes.
  3. Background Check:
    All volunteers must undergo a background check through the Washington State Patrol and will be checked against the National Sex Offender database to ensure the safety and well-being of our students. You will be contacted with your eligibility result. Clearances are valid for two years. This is in accordance with RCW 43.43.830 through 43.43.845.
  4. Wait for Approval:
    Once your application and background check are processed, you’ll be notified via email of your approval status. This can take up to a week. If you are volunteering for a specific date or event, such as a field trip, please submit your application as early as possible to avoid delays and ensure you are cleared in time.
  5. Start Volunteering:
    After approval, you will be added to the district’s volunteer database. When you arrive at the school to volunteer, you’ll check in at the front office and provide your name. The staff will then confirm your active status in the volunteer database.
  6. Renew Every Two Years:
    Your volunteer status is valid for two years from the approval date. After that, you’ll need to renew your application and background check.

Thank you for joining our volunteer community and making a positive impact!

Volunteer Support Specialist

Have questions? Contact Emily at the district office for assistance.

A woman with long brown hair smiles warmly at the camera.

Emily Fowler
Support Specialist
Superintendents Office

Email: fowler@skschools.org
Phone: 360-874-7010

Volunteer Applications

Other Resources

    • Q: If I am already cleared for one school, do I need to apply again for a different school?
      A: No, once you are cleared as a volunteer for one school within the South Kitsap School District, you do not need to apply again for other schools. Your approval is valid for all schools in the district.
    • Q: Can I submit an application at my student's school?
      A: Absolutely! You can find applications at all school offices, the district office, and online on our website.
    • Q: Can I email my application?
      A: Yes, you can! Please send it to the District Support Specialist. Be sure to include a copy of your ID and ensure the application is fully completed and signed.
    • Q: I was previously cleared by a different school district; will my background check and application count here?
      A: Unfortunately, background checks and applications are specific to each district. You’ll need to complete both a new background check and application for our district, even if you’ve been cleared or applied elsewhere.
    • Q: Is there a cost for my application and background check?
      A: Nope! There’s no cost for your application or background check.

  • The Senior Tax Exchange Program will be operating in the 2026-2027 school year.

    South Kitsap School District's Senior Tax Exchange Program offers qualifying residents an opportunity to receive a tax break on their local school taxes in exchange for their time and skills helping within the South Kitsap School District. The program was created in response to concerns of local citizens who are living on fixed incomes and are experiencing rising property taxes. The program also offers more opportunities to increase the contributions of senior citizens in public schools. This program will be advertised in the late fall of 2026 and program participants will serve in the schools January-June 2027.

    To qualify for the program, residents must meet all of the following criteria:

    • must be 61 years of age or older;
    • own and reside in their own home within the SKSD boundaries;
    • receive Social Security or retirement income;
    • have a gross household annual income of $65,000 or less.

    Participating residents can provide their skills (valued at the current hourly Washington State minimum wage) to SKSD up to but not to exceed the resident's annual local school tax bill. The annual total may not exceed $430 per household. Participants will receive a two-party check payable to themselves and the Kitsap County Treasurer in time for the April and/or October collection deadlines. A minimum time donation is 20 hours and will be served between January and June 2027.

    Please note that application to this program does not guarantee acceptance. The applicant must successfully clear a Washington State Patrol background check to participate in the STEP program.

    Please reach out to millera@skschools.org or call 360-874-7005 for an application.

    Kitsap County offers another option for tax relief and information is available on the Assessor's website.

  • South Kitsap Schools are inviting dads to come back to school and get involved through a national program called WATCH D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students). This father involvement initiative of the National Center for Fathering organizes fathers and father figures to provide positive male role models for the students and to enhance school security.

    Watch Dogs are fathers, grandfathers, step-fathers, uncles, and other father figures who volunteer to serve at least one day each year in a variety of school activities.

    For more information on this program visit fathers.com | Faithful Resources for Dads contact your school's volunteer coordinator, or PTA/SA for more information.

  • The Wolves On Watch (WOW) program is made up of dedicated volunteers who help support a safe and welcoming environment at South Kitsap High School. Team members assist by:

    • Monitoring school entrances
    • Greeting and directing visitors and late-arriving students
    • Providing positive interactions with students, staff, and guests

    Shift Times:
    Monday–Friday, between 7:15 AM and 2:45 PM
    (Volunteers can choose dates and times that work for them.)

    Location:
    Volunteers will be stationed at the SKHS main entrance and should in at the main office for each shift.

    How to Join the W.O.W. Team:

    1. Complete the Volunteer Paperwork.
      It is available linked above and in person at the SKSD Administration Office and SKHS Main Office.
    2. Already Approved?
      If you're already an approved volunteer, or once your paperwork is processed, please email Jana Vaca (Main Office Receptionist) at vaca@skschools.org to be added to the W.O.W. Team roster.

    Need More Information?
    For any questions or to learn more, feel free to contact:

    • Security Officer Jerry Bigler at 360-900-8275 (Available Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–1:00 PM)
    • Security Officer Lee LaDeaux at 360-874-5796

  • Big Brothers Big Sisters is starting operations in Kitsap County.