Join our PTO Crew!

 This is just a reminder that anyone (parent, guardian, friend, neighbor, aunt, uncle) must have school access to attend an event at Palencia Elementary, have lunch with a student and/or attend an awards assembly. If you have not already done so, please complete the School Access Form. The process for approval may take up to 4 weeks, so please fill out the application sooner than later for any guests that would like to have school access. Once the application is approved, school access will be valid for three years. 

Though our volunteer opportunities may be different with COVID guidelines, we always need more hands on deck!  We appreciate new ideas and input on how to constantly improve our PTO and school.  It takes a crew and we have a great one!
Make sure you are registered as a volunteer in the school prior to volunteering!   St. John's County requires all volunteers to submit their names for an official background check conducted by the St. John's County Sheriff's Office and the National Sexual Offenders Database.  Any person who wishes to participate at school functions is mandated to follow this policy.  This includes parents, grandparents, caregivers, community members, and any others who have interest in sharing our talents.  Background checks are valid for three years.  If you have previously completed for another school within our county, you do not need to resubmit.  If you are unsure if your background check is still valid, resubmit.  There is no fee or penalty.

Anyone who walks into school must show a photo ID and log into the front office computer.  If you have not completed your background check prior, the front office has the ability and authority to conduct a background check in the office.  Although it is not mandatory to have a background check to enter the school office, no one is allowed past the office without a passed background check.
All background checks are private.  No one in Palencia Elementary will handle paperwork directly.  St. John's County law strictly enforces and mandates policies for the safety of our children.  The background check should be completed within two weeks.  Those rejected will be contacted.  If there is an issue with rejection, contact the school to find out how to proceed.