The parents and families of Newtown are calling on the Newtown School District to urgently revise Policy 1212 to require every volunteer to complete background checks, specifically sexual offender registries and criminal records.  

As parents and caregivers, we trust that our children are safe at school and that every adult interacting with them has been properly vetted. However, the current policy does not require background checks for all school volunteers, creating a significant gap in student safety.

Volunteers play an important role in our schools and often work closely with students in classrooms, events, and extracurricular activities. Without required background checks, there is no consistent safeguard in place to ensure that all individuals in these roles have been appropriately screened.

In light of increasing concerns nationwide—and within our own Newtown community—it is both reasonable and necessary to strengthen this policy. We are asking the district to require every person who will be volunteering in our schools, in any capacity, to complete background checks before participating in any school-related activities.

This is a simple, proactive step that aligns with best practices and demonstrates a clear commitment to student safety. Our children deserve a secure learning environment, and families deserve peace of mind.

We urge the Newtown School District to take immediate action to amend Policy 1212 and require background checks on all volunteers. Please join us in supporting this effort by signing the petition.

Together, we can ensure a safer and more secure environment for every student.