The Simcoe County District School Board (SCDSB) is committed to providing a safe and secure working and learning environment for students and employees. As a condition of employment and in accordance with Regulation 521/01 of the Education Act, the SCDSB requires employees and/or service providers to submit a satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) prior to commencing employment.
Where can I get my VSC?
If you reside in Simcoe County, the following police stations provide background checks:
- Barrie: Barrie Police Services
- Bradford West Gwillimbury and Innisfil: South Simcoe Police Services
- Wasaga Beach, Collingwood, Orillia, Midland, Muskoka, New Tecumseth, Alliston: Ontario Provincial Police
If you live outside of Simcoe County, please obtain a VSC from police services in the jurisdiction you reside in. If the police department requests a letter from the employer, please be in touch with your contact in Human Resources.
Background checks completed by a private company or organization will not be accepted.
Does the SCDSB cover the cost of obtaining a VSC?
No, the SCDSB does not cover the cost of obtaining a VSC. The applicant is responsible for the application fee.
How current does the VSC need to be?
A VSC issued up to 6 months from the date of the job offer is acceptable.
What happens if I don’t have a “Clear” VSC?
If a VSC indicates evidence of a criminal record, confirmation of the applicants duties will be postponed pending a review of the information. A criminal offense on the record will not necessarily disqualify the applicant. The final hiring decision will be made by Human Resources and the Hiring Manager in consideration of various factors, including but not limited to the nature of the offence, length of time since the offence, steps to rehabilitation, and degree of cooperation during the deliberation.
What if I don’t submit a VSC?
If you are unable to submit a VSC before commencing employment with the SCDSB for reasons beyond your control, such as: police services processing time or due to emergency situations, please let your contact in Human Resources know. Exceptions to the timeline of providing a satisfactory VSC may be possible in extenuating circumstances, in agreement with the Manager, Human Resources and Assistant Manager, Human Resources.
Failure to provide a VSC prior to commencement of employment, or without notice to the Board, may result in withdrawal of the applicants offer of employment.
Can I provide a copy of my VSC?
The SCDSB requires an original copy of your VSC. Please make a copy of your VSC or email the original VSC from the police services or submit an original physical copy. Photocopied versions are not accepted.