Get Started
Thank you for your interest in contributing to Cambridge public school students’ success! CSV equips students to thrive now and as adults by making good matches. The more they can see themselves in a mentor or tutor, the deeper the impact on their success. Education research and CSV's experience tell us that good relationships benefit student learning the most. Our investment in relationships is why CSV volunteer placements are at least one semester long (three months, minimum).
Experience
No previous experience is necessary. CSV provides training and ongoing coaching for the program in which a volunteer is placed.
How to Apply
Fill out a Volunteer Application.
We ask for your patience while we respond. Processing your form may be delayed during periods of high recruitment or in the summer, when we have reduced staff.
2. Submit a CORI
Complete a digital CORI Acknowledgment Form.
*On the CORI form, under School or Department, please select Cambridge School Volunteers Program (NOT the school where you will be volunteering). If you do not select Cambridge School Volunteers Program, you will need to redo your CORI to make that correction.
Volunteers must come in person to present the valid, government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license or passport) that they uploaded to the CORI form. CSV staff will compare the ID with the submitted ID. Your application will not be complete until your ID has been verified and your CORI has been approved.
*CSV staff will schedule dates to meet corporate volunteers for NetPals, KeyPals, Reading Buddies, and MIT ChemE @ Pacesetters at their worksites.
Verification Dates and Location
Where:
CSV’s office, room 1105, Cambridge Rindge and Latin School, 459 Broadway, Cambridge. Enter CRLS through the main entrance (Door 1, on the side of the building facing the Cambridge Public Library) and check in with the security desk attendant, who will direct you to our office, Room 1105.
When:
September 2, 2026 - September 30, 2026 CSV staff will be available at the following times to verify IDs.
Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
** Note: Schools are closed September 7th and 21st. We will not be checking IDs on those days.
If necessary, contact us at csv@cpsd.usor call the CSV office at 617-349-6794.
If necessary, contact us to make other arrangements at csv@cpsd.us or call the CSV office at 617-349-6794. School security will not allow visitors to enter outside these times without an appointment.
3. Review the CPS Infectious Disease Control Administrative Guidelines and Procedures.
Please note the recommendation on page 5: MDPH recommends that all adults working in schools (including volunteers and student teachers) have immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, diphtheria, tetanus, and chickenpox. An annual influenza vaccination is also recommended for those who are in contact with children.
4. Send References
We require two references—at least one must be professional. The other may be personal, but not from a family member.
Reference Form
4. Attend an Orientation
A small-group orientation session is required for all new volunteers before they are offered a placement. Throughout the fall, orientations are available at least once a week and less frequently from December to May. The session will guide you through our expectations, the support you can expect from us, and information about the roles available to you.
View the calendar of virtual orientations and pre-register.
5. Placement Meeting
Most CSV volunteer programs also require a placement meeting of about 10 minutes after the completion of your application, receipt of your references, and attendance at a new volunteer orientation. This meeting is usually conducted virtually.
6. Workshops
We highly encourage volunteers to attend workshops offered during the year. Topics include academic subjects, students’ social and emotional development, and other areas that enhance volunteers’ work with students. Information and signup links are in our newsletters and in emails from your CSV program coordinator.
Contact us at csv@cpsd.us with any questions.