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​​Clearances/Background Checks

Pennsylvania School Law requires that all applicants for employment in public and private schools, employees of independent contractors seeking business with public and private schools, and student teacher candidates undergo background checks if they will have direct contact with students. In addition, employment history reviews must be completed for all applicants seeking employment.

The following three background checks are required:

  • Department of Human Services Child Abuse History Clearance
  • Pennsylvania State Police Request for Criminal Records Check
  • Federal Criminal History Record Information (CHRI)

Find information about obtaining clearances, associated laws and regulations, answers to frequently asked questions, and additional resources below. In addition, consider reviewing 24 P.S. §1-111, as amended, and the Child Protective Services Law concerning background checks, for more information.

The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services offers these answers to frequently asked questions about clearances for school employees.

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​​​​Contact Information

For additional information, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Education School Services Office at 717-783-3750 (phone) or ra-pde-schoolservice@pa.gov.