What is Sterling Volunteers – Background checks for adult volunteers?

The Bellevue School District contracts with Sterling Volunteers to provide online background checks. All volunteer opportunities for adults in the Bellevue School District require a background check. You will be directed to create a Sterling Volunteers account and submit to a background check during the sign-up process as a volunteer. Sterling Volunteers will follow up with email confirmation of eligibility.

What happens if my email indicates a background check needs to be reviewed?

The Human Resources department will review background checks that require consideration. You will be contacted should this be required.

When do I have to renew my background check?

Volunteers need to renew every three years and will be automatically notified by email.

Will it cost me anything to apply to Sterling Volunteers to submit to a background check?

No. The Bellevue School District will pay. Volunteers do have the option to pay the background check to defray the costs from the district, which is entirely optional.

I have children at multiple schools, do I have to apply for each school?

Your background check date is associated with all of your children and recorded in the student information system Synergy. You only need to submit one of their Student ID numbers during the application process.

I no longer have children in the Bellevue School District, can I still volunteer?

Yes. You can complete the Community Member Application.

As a PTSA Board Volunteer coordinator, how do I know if a potential volunteer is approved for volunteering?

Please check with the School Office Manager for a list of cleared volunteers.

Can Parent/Guardians without social security numbers apply for the background check?

Yes. There is an option in the application.

Who should I contact if I need assistance?

Please email [email protected].


The Bellevue School District acknowledges that we learn, work, live and gather on the Indigenous Land of the Coast Salish peoples, specifically the Duwamish and Snoqualmie Tribes. We thank these caretakers of this land, who have lived and continue to live here, since time immemorial.