Elementary Volunteer Orientation

About this event

The Elementary Volunteer Orientation is required for anyone who is interested in volunteering with elementary students in the Cambridge Public Schools. 

The orientation is an opportunity for us to meet you and for you to learn more about CSV's elementary programs. We ask that you keep your camera on during the call.

During the orientation we will share information about CSV's elementary programs, the CPS student community and CSV's volunteer expectations. There will also be time for us to answer questions about the application and placement process. After reviewing your application and references, CSV staff will follow up with next steps and potential start dates based on your schedule and our program needs.

If none of the upcoming sessions work for your schedule or there are no additional dates available, contact Sally Peterson by email at petersons@partnerof.cpsd.us.

Returning volunteers should not register for this orientation.

FAQs

What is the time commitment? We ask that volunteers commit to one hour per week, for at least one semester and preferably for the school year. Many volunteers choose to work more hours.

When are volunteers needed? Most elementary programs need volunteers during the school day. We have one elementary program with after school volunteer opportunities.

Who are the students? CSV's programs serve students from preschool through fifth grade. Cambridge Public School students come from a range of socioeconomic backgrounds and have a variety of circumstances that may impact their educational success. 53% percent of the student body is considered "high needs" as defined by the Massachusetts Dept. of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE). 

Can I help if I’ve never worked in a school? Yes! You do not need prior experience as a tutor or teacher. Our volunteers have diverse personal and professional backgrounds.

Do I need to provide references or have a CORI check? Yes. We will also need an image of a government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) for a CORI (criminal record check) and documentation of COVID-19 and other vaccinations. New volunteers must also provide two completed reference forms. (Links to the required forms are embedded in the online application.)

Do I need to provide references or have a CORI check? Yes.

As of December 18, 2025, the Cambridge Public School District has instituted a new system for completing background checks. Volunteers must come in person to present the valid, government issued ID (e.g. driver’s license or passport) that they uploaded to the CORI form. CSV staff will compare the ID with the one that has been submitted. Your application will not be complete until your ID has been verified and your CORI has been approved.

New volunteers must also provide two references. You references should be people who have know you for at least six months and at least one should be from a professional connection.

To fill out the application and submit paperwork, head to https://www.csvinc.org/volunte...