Background checks
All Tier I and II individuals must undergo a biennial screening process that must include at least both a multistate criminal background check and a National Sex Offender Registry screening.
Program supervisors and hosted programs are responsible for ensuring that program staff do not have a criminal background that would disqualify the individual from participating in a sponsored or hosted programs.
There are two options when requesting background checks:
- Human Resources - If the individual is a VCU employee that has had a break in service for six months or more, HR will conduct the appropriate background checks as part of the hiring process.
- Sterling Volunteers
The screening Eligibility Requirements guide outlines convictions that may would normally render an individual ineligible to work or volunteer with VCU sponsored or hosted youth programs. It is intended to assist program supervisors when reviewing screening results in compliance with the policy.
Biennial screenings for Tier I individuals
Tier I individuals who are VCU employees and have worked for the university for more than two years will need to undergo a biennial screening process. The Tier I individual’s immediate supervisor is responsible for conducting these screenings.
Tier I individuals not affiliated with VCU should consult with their organization’s human resources professionals or legal counsel for advice on conducting biennial screenings related to this policy. VCU does not have a role or responsibility in reviewing or interpreting background check results for outside entities.
Equity and Access Services offers the Sterling Volunteers background screening platform as a resource for programs and activities involving youth on VCU’s campus. Sterling Volunteers can be used to screen both volunteers and employees as required under the Protection of Minors Policy.