The UT system policy dealing with Programs for Minors is still relatively new. Do you know enough to protect your program and its participants? Below are several resources to help you and your program staff meet the needs of your minors while still complying with this important policy!
First, a little background: This UT System-wide policy was created in response to high profile case of Jerry Sandusky and the camps he conducted at Penn State. The case was an eye-opener for many institutions of higher learning. What do we do to protect the minors who attend our programs? How can we keep this from happening again? With that in mind, the UT System created a policy that protects minors and helps everyone follow best practices when working with children. One of our program administrators said it best when she stated that she was looking at this new policy as an opportunity to improve the services she and her program provided to her campers. We hope that you will follow her example, and view the policy as a way to help you improve your program. The policy certainly provides guidance that will protect the minors, but it also provides guidelines that will protect you and your camp staff. Each program is different, so this is not a “one-size-fits-all” policy. However, we will work with you to find ways to keep your programs running smoothly and efficiently. There are several ways you can learn more about the Programs for Minors policy and how it might affect you.
- Visit our Programs for Minors page to read the policy, browse through the forms and get a better understanding of the policy in general and how our campus handles our program.
- Attend a training session. Program Leads are encouraged to attend a training on the policy, its scope and the many ways you can register your program. For a complete list of trainings, click here.
- Programs for Minors information is also on UTC Learn (formerly known as Blackboard). This site has much of the same information that is located on our web page. However, you can also utilize this site to upload your registration packets, if you prefer. Contact our office, and we will be happy to add you to the Programs for Minors organization. Call Faith Garner at 423-425-5741 or email her at faith-garner@utc.edu.
- Most importantly, please call us and ask questions! Not all programs fall under the policy, but if you are wondering about an event or program, the best option is always to call us. Contact Faith at 423-425-5741 or Jim Pulliam at 423-425-5209. We will be more than happy to walk you through the policy and help you determine what you need to do.
Together, we can help all of UTC’s Programs for Minors successful and safe!