At Ridgway School District, volunteers play an important role in the success and well-being of our students. Becoming a volunteer not only supports our schools and teachers but also helps to create a vibrant and welcoming environment for every student.

Introducing Raptor: Simplifying the Volunteer Experience

We are excited to introduce the Raptor Volunteer Management System—a tool that streamlines the volunteer process while ensuring the highest standards of safety. Raptor makes it easier than ever for you to get involved in your child’s education by simplifying background checks and making the process more accessible. With Raptor, you can focus more on what truly matters—supporting our students, teachers and staff.

All volunteers must complete the following steps in order to serve at Ridgway Schools:

1. Applicants must complete the Online Volunteer Application and the District Volunteer Agreement.

   • Online Volunteer Application:

     • Please note that there is a $25.00 background check fee due at the time of submission.

     • An active email address and a valid Social Security number are required to complete the application.

   • District Volunteer Agreement:

     • The applicant must be sponsored by a District staff member, and the staff member’s name must be included on the District Volunteer Agreement.

     • Completed agreement can be submitted by email to dhawken@ridgway.k12.co.us or in-person to school office managers for building principal signature.

2. Background Check and Notification:

   • Once your Volunteer Application, Background Check, and Volunteer Agreement have been received, you will be notified via email that you are eligible to volunteer.

   • Important: You are NOT eligible to volunteer until you have received the email confirmation from the District Office.

3. Approval and Volunteering:

   • After receiving email confirmation that your application has been approved, you are welcome to begin volunteering.

   • Approved background screenings are valid for 24 months, after which they will need to be renewed.

What level of background checks does RSD conduct?

• Level 3 Volunteer background screenings through Raptor: Includes a National Criminal Database search, Social Security Number verification, address verification, multiple name check, Terrorist Watch List check, and unlimited county searches going back seven years’ residence history. The Raptor volunteer background screenings cost $25 per screening and are valid for 24 months.

For questions or requests for financial assistance to cover the cost of the background checks, please contact District Administrative Assistant, Dona Hawken, by email at dhawken@ridgway.k12.co.us or by phone at (970) 626-4320.