University of Arizona Sponsored (Internal) Programs:
Youth Group Supervision
All internal groups that are hosting minors on campus are subject to the University of Arizona Minor’s Policy which can be found here. This policy outlines behavioral and supervision expectations and it is the responsibility of the group leaders to make sure these guidelines are being met. We are happy to help you work through the details of this policy.
Non-University of Arizona Sponsored (External) Programs:
Adult Advisors
Groups whose participants are under the age of 18 must provide and pay associated costs for live-in, adult advisors. We require a ratio of at least one adult for every ten (10) participants.
Youth groups should also plan to provide structured opportunities and free-time activities during times when participants are not directly involved in program activities. The younger the participant, the more structure that is needed during free time. Experience has shown that groups who provide this adequate structure experience far fewer participant behavior problems and far fewer charges for damages to facilities. Groups hosting youth participants will be required to submit a detailed schedule of participant activities well in advance of the groups' arrival on campus. For assistance in this area, please feel free to contact us.
Training and Background Check
University of Arizona policy requires that individuals responsible for supervising minors complete a training program that includes information about responsibilities to safeguard Minors, applicable policies and procedures, and reporting requirements.
A non-UArizona affiliated company, Protect Youth Sports, offers Background Checks and Youth Safety self-paced online trainings. The course may be taken from any computer and costs $17.00 per person. Individual and group rates are available. More information may be found at https://www.protectyouthsports.com/.
The University of Arizona Police Department offers public fingerprinting resources at: https://www.uapd.arizona.edu/services/fingerprinting
You may also request an application packet for an initial or regular fingerprint clearance card directly from the Arizona Department of Public Safety by either calling (602) 223-2279 or faxing your request to (602) 223-2947; refer to their website at www.azdps.gov/Services/Fingerprint/#1.
Reporting Child Abuse or Policy Violations
If any person reasonably believes that a Minor, while participating in a Program, has been subjected to abuse or neglect, they will immediately report such information to a peace officer (by calling 9-1-1) and to the Program supervisor.
Miscellaneous
While the University does not require a specific ratio, Program Coordinators should consider best practices for the type of activity involved. One possible guide is that of the American Camp Association. This association recommends a ratio of 6:1 for children 5 and younger; 8:1 for children ages 6-8; 10:1 for children ages 9-14; and 12:1 for children ages 15-18.
No. All minors who are participating in a University program campus must be supervised by an Adult Advisor at all times while they are participating in the program.