VCI FAQ


How do vendors fit into the program at Pathways Charter School?
Pathways Charter School is an independent study program that serves home-based learners. We design individualized educational plans to meet student needs. We offer a wide variety of curriculum and classes. Some of our classes are taught by local vendors in the community that we call vendor course instructors (VCI’s). We rely on the expertise of these vendors to diversify our course offerings to students. Most vendors teach off-site while a few, by invitation, teach at our learning centers. Students can elect to use a portion of their curriculum budget towards the class taught by the VCI. This amount will vary student to student.

What is the process to become a VCI?
Since Pathways Charter School is a public school we must have an application process that ensures the quality of our instructors and the safety of our students in compliance with Education Code regulations. The first step of the process is to read and understand the process and structure of the VCI system. After reading this information if the instructor wishes to proceed he/she should:

  • Call and request packet 1 from Jenny Feige at 707-585-6516
  • Complete the required documents and return them to the school
  • The local administrator will review this packet and determine if the proposed service is a need in their local area. If it is determined that there is a need the second packet will be sent to the instructor.
  • The instructor should complete the second packet which includes getting a Livescan fingerprint and TB test
  • Once the school receives the fingerprint clearance form the Department of Justice we will send the final packet.
  • The vendor will be contacted by the local administrator to coordinate classes and advertising.
  • Parents will be notified through our ebulletin.

I have been fingerprinted before, can’t I just use those?
Employers are not allowed to share fingerprint results information. With each new employer the employee must get a new set of LiveScan fingerprints.

How long is my TB test good for?
TB test results are good for 3 years.

How are VCI’s paid?
As a public school we use purchase orders. The teacher of each Pathway’s student in the class will create a purchase order for their student that fits within their student budget. The purchase order will be for the entire amount allotted to the class for the semester. The VCI then uses this purchase order number to create a monthly bill and submits the bill at the end of each month for payment

Can VCI’s be paid up front?
No- we must use the purchase order system described above.

Is it guaranteed that I will become a VCI?
No- Factors such as student population, similar services already in place are
all considered when reviewing a request to become a vendor.

How long will the process take to become an active vendor?
The process can take between 1 to 2 months depending on the return of paperwork and fingerprinting results.

For more information, contact Jenny Feige