Vigilant Vaqueros

Real Dads. Real Impact. Real Change.

Vigilant Vaqueros logo with the tagline 'Real Dads. Real Impact. Real Change.'

A new volunteer program at Viejo Elementary designed to strengthen campus safety, build community, and show students what positive adult involvement looks like. By being a visible and encouraging presence on campus, volunteers help create a school environment where every child feels supported, valued, and connected.

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What Is Vigilant Vaqueros?

Vigilant Vaqueros is a team of parent volunteers, made up of dads, father figures, uncles, grandparents, and trusted male mentors. They support our school by being a visible and positive presence on campus. Their role is to deter unsafe behaviors, support students, and help create a stronger, safer learning environment. Vigilant Vaqueros

Goals of the Program:

  • Increase adult presence to promote safety

  • Strengthen student sense of community and belonging

  • Model kindness, responsibility, and service

  • Support staff and teachers during the school day

A presentation slide about Viejo Elementary School, established in 1970, emphasizing bilingual education, with the school's emblem on the left and three bullet points on fostering safety, community, and exemplary service on the right.

What Volunteers Do?

Vigilant Vaqueros help by:

  • Greeting students during morning drop-off with smiles and high-fives

  • Monitoring hallways during instructional time

  • Assisting with lunch & recess support

  • Helping teachers with reading, projects, and mentorship

  • Being present, engaged, and a friendly positive role model

An informational poster titled 'Roles of our Vigilant Vaquero.' It features three sections with icons: a smiling boy greeting students, a school building representing campus safety, and a teacher with students depicting mentorship. The text explains student roles like greeting students smilingly, monitoring hallways, and mentoring teachers. The bottom section emphasizes showing up and making a difference, with the VOEJ Elementary logo displayed.

What to Expect?

Volunteering gives families a unique chance to see the school day from the inside while supporting a safe campus. All volunteers must follow school guidelines.

School Rules:

  • NO photos or personal phone calls on campus

  • NO one-on-one student interactions or disciplining

  • NO entry into teacher break rooms or student restrooms

  • ALWAYS use adult restrooms in the office

  • ALWAYS radio school staff when needed

  • ALWAYS have fun!

Vigilant Vaqueros school rules poster with tips for student conduct, emphasizing safety, privacy, and fun, featuring the school logo in the bottom right corner.

How to Get Involved?

If you’d like to join the Vigilant Vaqueros or want more information, please email: VigilantVaqueros@gmail.com

How to Join

1. Complete Live Scan (Tier 1 Clearance)

All volunteers must complete a Tier One Live Scan before participating.

Quick Process:

  • Pick up the Live Scan form from the front office

  • Complete the online section

  • Go to the fingerprinting location listed

Cost:

  • Free for parents/guardians of Viejo students

  • Extended family (uncles, grandparents, etc.) must cover their own fee

Please allow 1–2 weeks for processing.

2. Choose Your Volunteer Dates

Once you’re cleared, you’ll be able to sign up for the day(s) that work best for you. Sign up HERE

3. Show Up With Your Swag

Check in at the office on your volunteer day and put on a school-provided safety vest.

Step-by-step instructions for volunteering, including completing a live scan, selecting preferred dates, and showing up with a badge or shirt on the scheduled day.
Sign up to Volunteer!