Parent Volunteer Opportunities

How to Volunteer

There are many opportunities for parents to volunteer at the school – from our Parent Teacher Organization, Room Parents, Admissions Parent Ambassadors, Advancement Committee or for one of several school functions throughout the year. We will begin posting opportunities for parents, grandparents, and other friends of St. Mary’s School to lend their support in both leadership roles and daily school needs.

2026 Fun Run
Cafeteria Volunteers
Library Volunteers
Gala of Lights Committee Interests
Gala of Lights Event Volunteers
Ambassadors
Advancement & Alumni Office - General Volunteers

For More Information on Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteer Information

Required Safe Environment Training

To comply with the  USCCB Charter and Norms, the Diocese of Knoxville’s (DOK) Safe Environment Program requires all clergy, employees, contracted school personnel, volunteers, members of groups and organizations, over the age of 18, who work, volunteer, or participate in ANY capacity to complete the Diocesan Safe Environment training and have a criminal background check BEFORE they may begin employment, volunteer, or participate with ministries, groups and organizations. 

The DOK’s Safe Environment Program is comprised of three elements the must be completed every five years: 

  1. Review of the DOK’s Policy and Procedures Relating to Sexual Misconduct;  
  2. Completion of the CMG Connect Safe Haven training program; and 
  3. Completion of a Criminal Background Check. 

The administration of the Safe Environment Program for the DOK is maintained and tracked using the Catholic Mutual Group (CMG) Connect Platform.  The CMG Connect Platform is web-based and allows the user to complete their training within the comfort of their home and at their convenience.   

ALL volunteers (aged 18 or older) are required to: 

  1. Create an account on the CMG Connect Platform, 
  2. Complete all required training, and 
  3. Submit the information necessary for a background check 
  4. Await certification by the Diocese of Knoxville before volunteering or working in a parish, school, ministry, or other organization affiliated with the Diocese (e.g., Catholic Charities of East Tennessee, the St. Mary’s Legacy Clinic, etc.). 

Megan Kupfer – Office Manager

QUESTIONS? 

Contact:  Megan Kupfer

School Safe Environment Coordinator 

smsoffice@stmarysoakridge.org

 

 

Regardless of whether you are a practicing Catholic or not, if you are older than 18 years of age and volunteer in ANY CAPACITY at St. Mary’s Church or School, you must complete this training.  

Driver Volunteering

CMG Vehicle Safety Policy Volunteer

The Catholic Mutual Group (CMG) has established a Vehicle Safety 
Policy for volunteer drivers, which includes the following key points:
  • Age and License: Volunteer drivers must be at least 25 years old and possess a valid driver’s license and current vehicle registration.
  • Insurance: Proof of insurance coverage is required, with minimum liability limits for privately owned vehicles set at $100,000/$300,000.
  • Cell Phone Use: Volunteer drivers are prohibited from using cell phones or any other electronic devices while operating their vehicles.
  • Responsibility: Drivers must exercise extreme care and due diligence while driving for Church ministry.
  • Training: All volunteers must complete the Diocese of Knoxville Safe Environment Training and a criminal background check before starting employment or volunteering.
  • Renewal: The mandatory renewal training must be completed every five years, with a new background check submitted before the expiration of the previous training. 

    These policies are designed to ensure the safety and security of both the volunteers and the individuals they transport. It is essential for all volunteers to adhere to these guidelines to maintain the trust and safety of the community.

If you would like to be a volunteer driver, please read the Vehicle Safety Policy: Volunteer Drivers and complete the attached forms.  Return the forms to the school office along with proof of coverage that specifies your insurance liability limits (minimum 100,000/$300,000).

Vehicle Safety  Form

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