Updated background check rules now in effect for school volunteers

Effective March 1, 2025, Florida's new law requires all school volunteers to pass a Level 2 background check, as mandated by Senate Bill 676, which was enacted during the 2023 legislative session. This measure aims to bolster the safety of students and staff in educational environments, affecting both new and existing volunteers. The financial implications of the law are significant, with background checks costing $97, compared to the $25 for Level 1 checks, raising concerns about accessibility for many potential volunteers. In response, Polk County Schools temporarily halted volunteer applications to assess the law's financial impact on the district. The district plans to resume accepting applications but is also exploring funding options to alleviate the costs for volunteers.

Polk Schools officials recognized the financial strain this new requirement may impose on individuals, stating they are investigating community partnerships to help cover some of these costs. The bill included $4. 4 million in appropriations, although it remains uncertain whether this funding will assist with the background check expenses. The Polk County School Board is committed to ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent community members from volunteering in schools.