Background Checks
Personal safety for our students is our highest priority, especially when it comes to protecting children from sexual misconduct and violence. All Church Personnel are required to undergo rigorous background investigationĀ and successfully complete Safe Environment Training through the VIRTUS program, if they are in contact with children. These measures ensure everyone working with children at schools and parishes can uphold the moral standards set by our Pastoral Code of Conduct.
All Church Personnel, ages 18 and older, will be required to submit a Level 2 criminal background investigation. Eligibility for employment, volunteer work, or ministry will be contingent and conditioned upon a satisfactory background investigation. This background investigation will be updated every five (5) years. This policy applies even if an individual has been cleared through an FBI or FDLE check conducted by their employer or another non-diocesan entity. In addition, any person under the age of 18 who is employed by a parish, school, or other diocesan entity must also be screened in accordance with this policy.
In addition, the State of Florida requires screening of summer camp employees and volunteers, regardless of age. Therefore, in the case of summer camps or any other applicable state-mandated screening requirements, minors (employed or volunteering) must be screened pursuant to state law.
Begin the Background Check Process
To begin the process for a Background Check you must first obtain an Authorization to be Fingerprinted from your Local Compliance Administrator at the school, parish or other diocesan entity requesting you to be fingerprinted. After this please open a VIRTUS account.
Create a Virtus Account
Go to Virtus website: https://virtusonline.org
Detailed Instructions: Directions for Opening a VIRTUS Account (English) l (Spanish)