Swearer Center for Public Service

Background & Clearance Checks Information for Brown Departments

To ensure the safety of minors and vulnerable populations in Rhode Island, departments with students engaging in this work must be aware of specific requirements. A Rhode Island State background check is often required and is always considered a best practice.

Brown University PolicyAll Brown faculty and staff must review the requirements for Brown's minors' protection program. If you have legal or compliance questions, the Office of General Counsel is your resource.
Community Partner Requirements

Always check with your community partner to see what clearances they require.

Providence Public Schools Requirements: The Providence Public School Department has a specific set of requirements that Brown University student volunteers must complete prior to engagement.

Swearer's Engagement Preparation Days (EPD)On three Saturdays early in each semester, the Swearer Center provides logistical and financial support for state clearances for students in CBLR courses and/or involved in faculty-led community-engaged research, as well as Swearer-affiliated programs.

Please let us know if you plan to send students to EPDs or have questions.