Why this policy exists

North Park hosts a diverse and growing number of youth-serving programs. Following a comprehensive review, the university identified a need for consistent standards to ensure safety and compliance. This policy addresses that need by setting mandatory requirements for training, background checks, conduct, and reporting obligations.

Who must comply

The policy applies to:

• Faculty
• Academic appointees
• Staff
• Student employees
• Volunteers
• Others working directly with minors in covered programs

Key requirements

Individuals involved in covered programs must:

• Complete training on mandated reporting, policy requirements, and appropriate conduct.
• Pass a criminal background and registered sex offender check.
• Follow conduct standards when working with minors.

Resources

• Registration
• Incident report form
• Conduct requirements

Definitions

• Covered Programs: all programs and activities involving minors sponsored by or affiliated with North Park (whether for academic, educational, pre-collegiate, experiential, athletic, artistic, recreational, or other purposes) that are operated either (i) on campus or (ii) off campus under the direction and authority of the University
  • However, for purposes of this policy, Covered Programs do not include:
  • University undergraduate, graduate, professional or continuing education academic programs to which minor students are admitted and enrolled for academic credit.
  • Regularly scheduled classes or activities designed for enrolled students or individuals accepted for college enrollment.
  • University faculty/staff residential properties
  • Single instance visits by adolescents to meet with faculty or academic appointees to discuss academic, intellectual or career interest.
  • Single guest lecturers or one-time participation in academic or research activities by academic guests.
  • One-time events that take place on no more than two consecutive days.
  • Single events on campus (such as festivals, convocations, or athletic events) that are generally open to the public and to people of all age groups at which children may be present
• Minor: Anyone under 18, unless enrolled full-time or employed by the University.
• Direct contact: Providing care, supervision, guidance, or oversight to minors.
• Covered programs: University-run or affiliated events, camps, or activities involving minors, whether on or off campus. Includes programs using University resources or name, even if personally operated by staff.

Special requirements for overnight programs

Programs involving overnight stays or use of campus housing must enforce:

• ID requirements
• Curfews
• Drug- and alcohol-free policies
• Participant codes of conduct
• Full-time residential supervision

Program registration

All covered programs must be registered with the Office of Title IX at least 30 days prior to starting. Registration includes program details and a list of adults with direct contact with minors.

Compliance checklist:

• Register your program
• Complete training and email your certificate of completion to mplante@northpark.edu
• Request background checks

Ensure that training, including digital signatures, and the request for background checks are completed at least three (3) weeks before individuals have direct contact with children.

Background checks

Background checks are conducted by a third party and include criminal history and sex offender registry searches. Additional checks may be required based on program specifics.

Mandated reporting

Under Illinois law, all University personnel (faculty, staff, student employees, and volunteers) are mandated reporters. If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected in your official capacity, you must report it to the Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) at (800) 252-2873, or call 911 in an emergency.

Reporting Misconduct

Policy violations may result in disciplinary action, including termination and notification of authorities. Conduct policies are detailed in the Student Manual, Faculty Handbook, and Human Resources policies.

Contact information

For parents

Message to parents of minors

North Park University is committed to safeguarding the well-being of children who participate in university-sponsored programs and activities. The Policy Regarding Minors on Campus sets training and conduct requirements for those individuals who are involved with university programs or programs that utilize University facilities and grounds that serve children. It also calls for supervisors and volunteers with youth programs and any individuals who have direct contact with minors through these programs to complete training on mandated reporting status, the policy and guidelines for working with youth (i.e., how to maintain appropriate boundaries).

The university wants to work with you and keep your child safe. If you have any questions of concerns about your child’s experience(s) with the university, or the Policy Regarding Minors on Campus, please let us know by:

• Speaking with your child’s program director or staff contact
• Contacting Mark Plante at mplante@northpark.edu
• Calling the DCFS Hotline: (800) 252-2873

For minors

North Park University is an equal opportunity institution that welcomes your participation and presence on campus. We strive to create a safe learning environment for minors. Our goal for minors on campus is to create an environment that allows you to take advantage of all the opportunities that our camps and learning environments provide. If at any time you do not feel safe or if you are unsure whether behavior directed toward you is appropriate, please contact Mark Plante at mplante@northpark.edu.

The university provides other resources that are available to you if you feel unsafe. If you contact any of these resources, please make the resource immediately aware of your special status as a minor. This knowledge will help the resource provide you with assistance that is appropriate for your needs.

• Contact Mark Plante at mplante@northpark.edu
• Call Campus Safety: (773) 244-5600
• If urgent, call 911
• For harassment or discrimination, contact the Title IX Coordinator: (773) 244-6276