New background check rule in effect for volunteer coaches at Radford City Schools

Radford City Schools is moving to tighten the rules for anyone coaching or helping lead student teams. Leaders want every adult, paid or volunteer, working with students after school to go through the same full background check process, including fingerprints. Superintendent Adam Joyce said paid coaches already go through a rigorous screening, similar to teachers, but volunteer coaches have only gone through a lighter process. The updated check will include fingerprinting for volunteer coaches. The district will cover the cost. The rule will take effect for the upcoming school year.