Elementary Volunteer Orientation

About this event

This orientation is required for anyone who is interested in volunteering with elementary students in the Cambridge Public Schools. You will learn about Cambridge School Volunteers' elementary programs including math and literacy placements. We will share information about the CPS student community and CSV's volunteer expectations. During the orientation, we will also explain how CSV supports you, the volunteer. Finally, we will 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 me by email at petersons@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; 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. Two of our elementary programs offer volunteering opportunities in the after school hours.

Who are the students? 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.)