Cornell University has a zero-tolerance policy for abuse, mistreatment, or sexual activity among minor participants in our programs.

Youth programs that have custodial care of minors must develop and make available to participants and parents/guardians the rules and disciplinary measures applicable to the program. These rules must include a clear prohibition on peer-to-peer abuse and mistreatment.

The Following Minimum Conduct Rules are Required for All Youth Programs:

• The possession or use of alcohol and other drugs, fireworks, guns and other weapons, and sexually explicit material is prohibited.
• Participants may not leave University premises or the program location without consent.
• Participants are prohibited from engaging in acts of violence, sexual abuse, or harassment.
• Hazing is prohibited. 
• Bullying, including verbal, physical, and cyber bullying are prohibited.
• The use of tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, is prohibited.
• Misuse, damage, or theft of property is prohibited.
• The use of cameras, imaging, and digital devices is prohibited in areas where privacy is expected, such as showers, locker rooms, and restrooms.

• Rules for older program participants (generally 13+) should include a prohibition on all sexual activity.

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Mechanisms for Participant Feedback:

Program participants and their families must be provided with multiple ways they can report safety concerns or boundary-crossing behavior. Appropriate language for this might be: “If my child or I have concerns about anything that happens during this program, the program director can be reached at (phone number/email). If for any reason we are uncomfortable contacting the program director or that person is not available, Cornell University’s Youth Protection team can be reached at 607-255-9062.” 

This webpage may also be provided to parents/guardians. This information should be provided in the program’s registration documents or welcome packet.