Diocesan Safe Environment Program for Children

The Diocese of Fort Wayne South Bend requires that all children in the diocesan parochial schools participate in age-specific safe environment training. Grades preschool through three will receive a 15-minute presentation during their atrium classes. Grades 4-8 will receive safe environment presentations during religion class.

Parents may view all Safe Environment information offered by the diocese HERE. If parents do not want this training offered to their child, they may download the “Safe Environment Opt Out” form, found HERE and return the form to the RE office. Forms must be submitted no later than September 15 and a new form must be submitted each year.

Diocesan Safe Environment Program for Volunteers

SCHOOL FAMILIES, FACULTY AND STAFF
As required by diocesan policy, all priests, deacons, seminarians, employees, and volunteers (who will have regular contact with young people), must have a criminal background check prior to beginning their service and every FOUR (4) years after that, as well as undergo Safe Environment Training every TWO (2) years.

This includes students under 18 years of age, as well as, leaders of any groups sponsored by Saint Pius X such as, after school clubs, field trips, Boy Scouts, music instruction, athletic coaches, etc.

Upon satisfactory completion of safe environment training requirements, the school office will prepare a permanent name badge with expiration date below name.

MONITORING VOLUNTEERS WHOSE TRAINING HAS EXPIRED/RECORDS MAINTENANCE
Monthly audits are conducted by the school front office staff of all permanent name badges

COMPANIES WHO PROVIDE SERVICE TO THE SCHOOL ON A REGULAR BASIS
Employees of regular service companies are required to provide verification of background check through their company OR participate in the Saint Pius Safe Environment Training Program.

FOR MORE INFORMATION
To start this process, or to see if you need updated training or a background check, please contact Julianne Dougall, 574-272-8462 or [email protected].