Become a Volunteer

All volunteers must be registered and have a valid CORI background check on file with The Bridge.

CORIs

CORI paperwork must be completed in person. 

All volunteers must complete a CORI (criminal offender record information) background check with The Bridge. If you are an elementary or Franklin ECC caregiver or family member, you may complete the form in the front office of your student’s school anytime during school hours, or make an appointment to meet with Lisa Lewis (who can be flexible with after school hours). 

All other interested volunteers should contact Lisa to schedule a CORI appointment. You can reach Lisa at llewis@melroseschools.com. You can also check our upcoming events page to see if Lisa will be out in the community for CORIs at a time that works for you.

It only takes about 5 minutes to fill out the form, however it can take several days for it to be processed (so make sure you leave enough time before volunteering). You will need to bring a government issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, etc.) with you. 

CORIs with The Bridge are valid for 3 school years. Unfortunately, we cannot share CORIs across organizations, so you must CORI with The Bridge even if you recently completed one for another organization. 

Registration

You can register online with The Bridge here (or click the button below). If you have questions about or need assistance with this process, please contact Lisa Lewis at llewis@melroseschools.com. She’s happy to help!

Volunteer Opportunities

Middle and High School Volunteering

Volunteer roles still exist at the secondary level! 

The Bridge works with department directors, educators, and counselors to fill other volunteer needs at the middle and high schools. We bring volunteers in to make real world connections to the curriculum, offer career exploration, assist with college application preparation, provide small group or individual tutoring, and more.  

Many volunteer opportunities are tied to specific activities, such as drama, music (band, orchestra, chorus, etc.), robotics, and sports. You can learn more about the organizations that help support these activities here [links coming soon], and reach out to them to get involved. Occasional volunteer opportunities may come from the PTO at the secondary level as well.

Email Lisa Lewis at llewis@melroseschools.com if you have questions or want to learn more.

ECC and Elementary Volunteering

Volunteer roles abound at the preK and elementary level, most of them coming from the PTO and classroom teachers, and include things like chaperoning field trips, helping with classroom events, assisting with a PTO fundraiser, or serving on the PTO.

The most consistent, ongoing need is for help in the elementary school libraries. Students visit the library weekly or bi-weekly, and these visits are staffed entirely by volunteers. Duties include checking books in and out (it’s very easy) and shelving books. Many class visits include a read-aloud as well. If you’re more of a behind-the-scenes person, the libraries are always looking for help with regular tidying — straightening shelves, making sure books are put away properly, occasional dusting, etc. 

Occasionally elementary school teachers reach out to The Bridge for other volunteers, such as speakers on a particular topic or help with small groups. The Bridge will contact registered volunteers to fill these types of roles as needed.

Interested in learning more? Email Lisa Lewis at llewis@melroseschools.com.