EXPECTATIONS FOR STAFF

Screening and Education

We make efforts to screen and hire staff that can embody the joyful spirit of camp without compromising the degree of professionalism and judgment needed to maintain a safe and healthy camp environment. For purposes of this policy, staff includes full-time, part-time and seasonal employees, as well as short-term employees and volunteers. Before campers are entrusted to their care, staff must complete a background check in accordance with applicable laws, affirm their commitment to our safety policies, and receive training on abuse prevention and our procedures for reporting and responding to harm.

Behavioral Expectations for Staff

Camp holds staff to the highest standards. Physical, sexual and emotional abuse, grooming behavior, and romantic or sexual relationships with campers, including those who are 18 years of age or older, are prohibited. Refer to the Staff Safety Policy to review all staff policies.

Camp strives to create a safe, healthy, and secure environment at Camp, to help children develop self-control and to help children assume responsibility and understand the impact of their actions. Clear and consistent, age-appropriate rules and limits are established at Camp. Any consequences used will relate to the child’s specific actions and will be handled in a safe and timely fashion per this policy. No physical or corporal punishment is allowed. No verbal abuse or humiliation, scare tactics, or other controlling measures are allowed. No methods associated with the deprivation of food, water, or shelter, or extended isolation are allowed. No punishment of any kind for bedwetting is allowed.

Mandated Reporting Policy

In accordance with Pennsylvania law, all Camp staff and volunteers are required to comply with legal mandatory reporting requirements, which consist of reporting both to civil authorities and/or law enforcement as required, and to camp leadership or a member of the Camp Safety Team. For more information on staff reporting policies, please see Staff Safety Policy and Procedures.