Support Our School

We welcome volunteers at Bushy Park and hope that this information will acquaint you with the goals and responsibilities of the volunteer program at our school. First, please review the HCPSS websites for system-wide policies and information on the following:

-School Visitation

-Volunteer Information

The information at the links above outlines the required training and confidentiality agreements to which all visitors and volunteers must adhere.

Three Ways To Start a Terrific Day . . .

1. Let Us Know You're Here

All visitors to the building are required to sign in at the office before going anywhere in the building.  In addition, we ask that you sign out at the end of your time with us.

 2. Limit Cell Phone Use

Please turn your cell phone off or, at least, to vibrate.  Volunteers are asked not to use their cell phones in the school building, as cell phones can create disruptions and be distracting to a learning environment. 

3. Be Positive!

Volunteers are to be positive role models at all times.  Please treat others with respect and patience throughout the day.

Confidentiality . . .

As a volunteer, you are required by law to protect the confidentiality of all student information that you see or hear while volunteering.  FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act), a federal law, as well as state regulations, protect student information. 

It is essential that you are careful not to divulge any confidential information that has been received during your time spent volunteering at school. 

If you should become aware of information regarding a student that you feel needs to be shared, concerns should be directed to a school administrator.  The school administrator will determine to whom this information will be disseminated.

Learning Environment

In an effort to support a school environment that is conducive to learning, volunteers are asked to refrain from bringing a child or children with them to volunteer.

We love small children but siblings and/or daycare children, etc. are not allowed in instructional areas during your volunteer time.

 Please dress appropriately.  Remember that you are a role model, so professional attire is important. 

For Your Convenience

Adult restrooms are located near the first floor staff lounge.  There is also an adult restroom located in the hallway near the second floor staff lounge.

Volunteers are asked not to use student restrooms. 

Mutual Respect

All meetings/conferences with staff must be scheduled in advance and may not occur during time with students (including arrival/dismissal times).  Please do not attempt to conference with your child's teacher(s) during your volunteer time.

We look forward to having you volunteer!  If you are scheduled to volunteer on any given day and are unable to be at school, please call the office as soon as possible.

Parent volunteers who are working on non-instructional tasks (clerical/cut and paste activities, etc.) are to work in the Extended Learning Areas (ELA).  Only parents who are working with small groups or individual students supporting instruction are to be in the classroom.  

School Visitation Form

All visitors and volunteers must sign, and adhere to the expectations outlined in the HCPSS School Visitation form.  One form may be kept on file for regular volunteers.

Confidentiality Training Course

Thank you for your interest in volunteering within the Howard County School System! We value our volunteers and the contributions they make to our students and schools.

According to HCPSS Board Policy, all parent volunteers must complete a Confidentiality Training Course about protecting the privacy of our students, staff, and schools.

View the brief training presentation and print out a certificate of completion

Child Abuse and Neglect

Child abuse and child neglect are against the law.  Educators, health care workers, police officers, etc. are required by law to report suspected abuse or neglect.  In addition, school volunteers, community members, and others are expected to report if there is a reason to believe that abuse or neglect possibly occurred.  Reports should be made without attempts to do further investigation, interrogation or other verification of the allegation.

Should you have reason to believe that a child is being abused or neglected, contact the Howard County Department of Social Services (DSS) 410-872-4203 or the Police Child Abuse Unit 410-313-2635, or the Maryland State Police 410-386-3000.  

If the abuse or suspected abuse of a student involves a staff person, please notify DSS and then a school administrator.