The Lincoln County R-III Schools are bustling each day with students, faculty, staff, parents, and volunteers. Volunteers help our teachers and students by assisting on field trips, completing special projects, participating in school-wide activities, or other unique school volunteer opportunities.

We value our volunteers and the role they play in our schools. We also value student safety. The guidelines for volunteers and visitors have recently been updated due to a change in the Missouri State Law. Please read the below to find out more about completing the volunteer process.

In order to provide a safe environment for our students and employees and to remain in compliance with Missouri law, the District must have practices and procedures in place for volunteers and visitors. Enforcing deadlines and adhering to district-wide practices keep students safe. Keep these items in mind each year to ensure you don't miss an opportunity.

1. Complete forms by October 30. Forms must be completed annually. If you are a returning volunteer, this allows the District to keep your fingerprint active in the MACHS system through the Missouri State Highway Patrol. If forms are not completed by October 30, the volunteer will need to pay for and complete the fingerprinting process again. 
2. Give yourself time and plan ahead. For new volunteers, the application and background check process can take time. Returning volunteer applications are due no later than October 30. For new volunteers, the District strongly recommends that you complete your volunteer requirements two or more weeks prior to the event that you wish to attend.
3. Give our staff time.  Field trips and volunteer opportunities occur in each of our schools and typically happen around the same time. We appreciate the patience that you provide to our employees as we work diligently to provide our students with the best learning environment possible.
4. Delayed processing. Processing a records request doesn't typically take days; however, any infraction (even a ticket) can impede how quickly your background check is returned to our offices. A delay doesn't equal denial; however, the Lincoln County R-III School District must have information prior to making any decision.

Thank you for your partnership and dedication to our students.