Individuals under the age of 18 engage with the University in many ways beyond summer camps, including through internships, private lessons, workshops, and research studies. In recognition of this, the Office of Environmental Safety, Sustainability and Risk is developing guidance on how to best support youth as a unique population on campus.
Registration: Please email youthprograms@umd.edu to share information about any planned or already occurring programs involving minors. The Youth Protection Compliance Manager is available to provide key support, including guidance on parental consent forms and when additional risk assessments may be required for specialized activities.
Required Training: All individuals leading the youth activity or that interact with minors at any time throughout the activity are required to complete Youth Protection: Preventing Abuse and Neglect training. This course is currently available on Workday. Please reach out to youthprotection@umd.edu if program members do not have access to Workday. Note: the Demographic Survey is optional.
Mandatory Reporting: USM’s Policy on Reporting of Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect should be read by everyone that will engage with the youth program participants.
Persons may report allegations of sexual misconduct or discrimination to the Office of Civil Rights and Sexual Misconduct at any time. Additional trainings and resources can be found on the Training & Education page.
Laboratory Activities: Minors participating in research activities in laboratories are required to be added to the lab's SciShield profile and must receive the same training as other laboratory personnel. If a student does not have university login credentials, email labsafety@umd.edu with the student's full name, their email address, and approximately how long they will need access (this can be extended if necessary).
*These procedures and guidelines do not apply to general public events where parents/guardians retain care, custody and control of the minors and are expected to provide adequate supervision.
Additional Guidance: Reach out the ESSR office by emailing youthprograms@umd.edu with any questions.