Expectations

• Observe the “Rule of Three” – have at least one other adult present during all interactions with youth.
• Limit physical contact to purposes that are consistent with the program’s mission and/or for a clear educational, developmental, or health related purpose, in the presence of another staff member, and with the consent of the youth.
• Use program-sponsored e-mail, phone and social media accounts for communication when there is an essential educational or programmatic reason to do so.
• Disclose any pre-existing relationships with youth in the youth program immediately to the program lead. Abide by these standards while affiliated with the youth program, despite any pre-existing personal relationships.

Discouraged or prohibited

Note: Discouraged behaviors are indicated by use of the word “avoid.”  All other behaviors are prohibited.

• Avoid being alone with a single youth where you cannot be observed by program staff or other adults.
• Do not act in a manner that can be perceived as physical or verbal abuse.
• Do not discipline youth by use of physical punishment or by failing to provide the necessities of care.
• Do not engage in purposeful communication or contact including in-person meetings, phone or other electronic communication including social networking, with youth outside of sanctioned program activities.
• Avoid texting and other forms of electronic one-on-one communication between a single staff person and a youth.

Expectation

• Treat all youth equitably, i.e. fairly and consistently, regardless of their actions or behavior, sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, culture, place of birth, age, class, ability, health, citizenship, language, or other identities.

Prohibited

• Do not discriminate against a youth based on their sex, gender, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, culture, place of birth, age, class, ability, health, citizenship, language, or other identities.
• Do not give personal gifts to youth or their parents, e.g., any item intended to give a youth and/or parent special attention that is not given to others.

Expectation

• Understand and respect the physical and personal boundaries set by youth.

Prohibited

• Do not engage in sexual contact of any kind. (including any verbal or physical contact that can be perceived as sexual in nature.)
• Do not date or become romantically involved with youth.
• Do not discuss your own or a youth’s sex life or sexual activities.
• Do not share sexually explicit material with youth.

Expectations

• The safety of youth must be your primary concern above all others.
• Report any concerns for suspected abuse or neglect of a youth to authorities per University policy requirements.
• Notify University representatives per policy requirements of any violations of these standards for interacting with youth.
• Follow all University transportation procedures for transporting youth.

Prohibited

• Do not possess, sell, use, or be under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, tobacco or illegal drugs while engaged in program activities or on site.
• Do not bring or carry a weapon into the program.
• Do not transport youth in a personal vehicle.