Schools' bureaucracies might intimidate volunteers, so work with them in identifying the appropriate contact people. If they will be doing a lot of on-site work, you should also probably introduce them to the janitors, who have keys to everything. Tell them about any open P.O. arrangements or petty cash funds they can use if they need to get equipment or buy parts.

Before their first visit, they should know:

• If they need to get T.B. clearance.
• If they need to check in at the front desk, and/ or wear a badge.
• What is appropriate attire for the school.

Another important factor with schools is that volunteers may be working with, or around, students. This usually invokes special policies on behavior, security, health, confidentiality, and so on. There are probably concerns about student use of computers and online access. Inform the volunteers about these policies as soon as possible. Also make clear whether volunteers will be working directly with students or adults- some volunteers who are very excited about school projects get disinterested because they end up helping teachers as opposed to students.