Institutions of higher education (IHEs) often find themselves at the convergent point of community activity. These institutions attract a diverse range of people to various campus events and programs, including the most delicate and vulnerable demographic—minors. Ensuring their safety proves to be more than a moral duty; it’s a legal necessity as well.
From public meetings to cultural festivals, to sports events and educational programs, campuses are a vivacious hub of activity. Subsequently, they also attract children and young adults who participate in these events, visit friends or family, or use campus resources. Having such a vulnerable group on campus only heightens the responsibility of IHEs to provide secure environments.
This concern gains even more traction when considering potential legal implications and liabilities in the event of a mishap or negligence. To mitigate these risks, proactively crafting and implementing robust safety policies becomes a requisite for these institutions. The policies must take into account the distinctive needs of minors and the variety of potential risks they might face on campus.
So, what does it take to create such a policy? The specifics will vary based on the institutional context and the nature of the minors involved. However, there are a few key considerations that can guide IHEs toward improved safety for their youngest guests:
- Perform thorough background checks on any staff members who might come into frequent contact with minors.
- Provide regular safety and conduct training for said staff members.
- Ensure proper supervision of minors at all times while on campus.
- Have specified reporting procedures for any safety issues or incidents relating to minors.
- Create a formal process for parents or guardians of minors to provide consent for their child’s participation in campus activities.
For more tips on crafting a policy that ensures the safety of minors on a campus, you can explore this thorough piece by Venable LLP—a comprehensive guide that not only discusses policy creation but also sheds light on various implications of improper safety measures.