Participant Protection
Your safety matters—confidential reporting and mandatory training for all groups.
Report a Concern
How to Report Concerns or Misconduct
Concerns can be reported at any time—anonymously or directly. All submissions are reviewed promptly by SAPA leadership.
- Anonymous Form: Complete Form
- Direct Email: Contact the Executive Director at executivedirector@sapaonline.net or the President at president@sapaonline.net.
Your report is confidential. SAPA does not tolerate retaliation of any kind.
National Criminal Background Checks
In a continuing effort to refine and strengthen the Code of Conduct, SAPA now requires all participating groups to certify they have obtained a national criminal history background check (or satisfactory equivalent) for anyone in contact with participants. This includes:
- Instructional and administrative staff
- Chaperones, drivers, pit/prop crews, and volunteers
- Clinicians, designers, and any contracted staff
Background checks must be performed at least every two years or follow your school district’s policy if stricter. Scholastic groups may follow institutional requirements; if none exist, SAPA requirements apply.
SafeSport™ & Participant Protection Training
All adult staff, employees, independent contractors (including adjudicators), and board members must complete one of the following courses:
- U.S. Center for SafeSport™ Trained Abuse Prevention Course
- WGI Participant Protection Course (more info)
Individuals who completed the SafeSport™ course between January 1, 2023 and June 1, 2025 must take the Refresher 1 course for the 2026 season. Directors should retain all certificates in case of audit.
These online courses provide guidance for creating a safe and positive marching arts environment and outline how to identify, report, and prevent emotional, physical, and sexual abuse or misconduct.
Key Policies & Guidance
Download documents to help your program meet all SAPA requirements:
Background Check Guidelines SafeSport Training Steps Reporting FAQs
Audit & Compliance
- Maintain records of all background checks and SafeSport certificates.
- Ensure new staff and volunteers complete requirements before contact with participants.
- Submit documentation promptly if requested.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I submit a concern anonymously? Use our secure online form—no identifying information required.
- What qualifies as a reportable concern? Any issue involving misconduct, abuse, harassment, or safety risks.
- Do volunteers need background checks? Yes. Anyone with direct contact with performers must be screened.
- How long does SafeSport training take? Initial course ~90 minutes, refresher ~30 minutes annually.
Quick Links
Report a Concern SafeSport Training Background Check Info SAPA Resources Page WGI Studio