Swearer Center for Public Service
Background & Clearance Checks for Placements
This page contains information for non-Providence Public Schools (PPSD) placements. If your placement is at PPSD, please visit this page.
Due to your placement working with minors, there are specific requirements you must complete before starting your placement. Please follow the instructions below to complete these requirements for engaging with minors.
| Types of Clearance | Considerations | Instructions |
|---|---|---|
| RI State Background Check Investigation | Any student over 18 engaging with minors or vulnerable populations must have a state background check (BCI). Students under 18, and/or do not have a government ID cannot receive the RI state background check. | The best way to obtain a RI State Background Check is to visit the Attorney General's Office at 4 Howard Avenue (in the Pastore Complex), Cranston, RI 02920. Please be sure to bring your government-issued ID (license, state ID, passport, etc.). The AG office can conduct your RI State BCI for ~$5.00 (processing fees bring it up to around $5.60), which can be paid by debit/credit card. They do not accept cash. If you are a Swearer-affiliated student, you can send an e-copy of your clearances to email to swearer-operations@brown.edu, who will retain an electronic copy on your behalf. |
| Mandated Reporter Training | All students engaging with minors must complete this training to understand their required Mandated Reporter role under state law. | Sign up for a student account on TopHat by using your Brown SSO credentials, and then complete the virtual Mandated Reporter training by scrolling through the PPT slides and answering question. For the training to be considered complete, a score of 6 must be achieved. |
Contact us
We are here to help with any questions you may have about this process. Email swearer-operations@brown.edu.