Getting Into Schools

Navigating School Access

Getting into schools can be challenging. Between security concerns, crowded schedules, and bureaucratic processes, many willing DAP volunteers struggle to get their foot in the door. This lesson provides practical strategies for gaining and maintaining school access.

Understanding Modern School Security

Schools today are more security-conscious than ever. Expect:

Background checks: Many districts require them for any adult working with students
Sign-in procedures: Always sign in at the main office and wear a visitor badge
Escort requirements: You may need to be accompanied by school staff
Advance approval: Visits typically need to be scheduled days or weeks ahead
Photo ID: Bring your driver's license to every visit

Don't view these procedures as obstacles—they protect the students you're trying to help. Comply cheerfully and completely.

The District Approval Process

Many school districts require central approval for outside presenters:

Contact the district office: Ask about their process for community education programs
Submit required paperwork: This may include program descriptions, volunteer information, and liability documentation
Complete any required training: Some districts require online modules about working with students
Get on the approved list: Once approved, individual schools can invite you more easily
Renew as required: Approvals often expire annually

This process takes time—start early in the school year or during summer.

Timing Your Outreach

When you reach out matters:

August-September: Schools are planning for the year—ideal time for initial contact
October: Red Ribbon Week creates natural opportunities
January: Second semester opens new scheduling possibilities
May-June: Good time to plant seeds for next year
Avoid: Testing periods, first/last week of school, major holidays

What to Bring to Your First Meeting

When meeting with a school administrator:

Brief overview of DAP and the Elks (one page maximum)
Sample materials appropriate for their grade levels
List of your volunteers and their backgrounds
References from other schools if available
Your contact information and scheduling flexibility

Keep it concise—administrators are busy.

Presentation Format Options

Offer multiple formats to increase your chances of access:

Classroom Visits

30-45 minutes with individual classes. More personal and interactive but requires more volunteer time.

Grade-Level Assemblies

45-60 minutes with all students at a grade level. Efficient but less interactive.

Lunch or Activity Period

Informal sessions during non-instructional time. Lower barrier to entry.

Special Events

Red Ribbon Week kick-offs, health fairs, or career days. Visible and exciting.

Materials Drop-Off

If you can't get presentation time, offer to provide materials for teachers to use. This can lead to future invitations.

Following Up Effectively

Persistence is essential, but there's a right way to follow up:

Wait 1-2 weeks after initial contact before following up
Use multiple channels: Try email, then phone, then in-person if possible
Reference your previous contact: "Following up on my email from last week..."
Offer something new: Each contact should add value, not just repeat the ask
Know when to pause: After 3-4 attempts without response, wait a few months and try again

Converting a "Maybe" to "Yes"

Many schools respond with vague interest but no commitment. To move forward:

Offer a specific date and time rather than asking "when works for you"
Propose a low-commitment pilot: "Could we try one classroom to start?"
Address their likely concerns proactively
Get a decision-maker meeting, even if brief
Ask what would make them more comfortable moving forward

Maintaining Access Year After Year

Once you're in a school, keep the relationship strong:

Send thank-you notes after each visit
Check in at the start of each school year to schedule
Invite school staff to lodge events
Recognize the school partnership publicly
Continuously improve your presentations based on feedback