Parent Information Minors on Campus

This page is a resource guide for parents and guardians of minors participating in any activity on campus.

TWU's "minors on campus" rules apply to individuals younger than 18 years old, with the exception of traditional college students, and TWU employees. Activities where the parent or guardian is supervising their child at all times are also not required to meet these rules.

TWU is committed to ensuring the safety of all minors. This includes those participating in camps or other youth programs, on university premises as well as university-run activities off campus.

TWU's minors on campus program rules are extensive, including:

• Annual background checks that are much more extensive than normal "pre-hire" employment background checks. The program includes a long list of issues in someone's background that would prevent them from working with minors.
• Training, approved by the Texas Department of State Health Services, covering a wide range of youth protection topics, as well as TWU's youth protection rules.
• Minimum supervision ratios for youth programs, depending on age of participants and it is an overnight program, as well as prohibition of 1-on-1 interactions between minors and adults.
• Rules regarding appropriate interactions with minors (both in person and virtually).
• Emergency preparedness plans, including how parents/guardians will be contacted in an emergency.
• Incident reporting requirements, including reporting any suspected neglect or abuse, as well as reporting instances of non-compliance with youth protection requirements.
• Any camp or activity involving minors (other than enrolled students and employees) must be registered with Risk Management.
• To learn more about applicable rules, refer to the Minors on Campus web page, especially the Youth Program Requirements and Procedures manual. There is also a video covering TWU's minors on campus requirements.

Recommendations for Parents/Guardians

• Make sure to carefully read all paperwork associated with the youth program; including liability waivers, medical information forms, medical treatment authorization forms, photo/video permission forms, forms about swimming/water safety, etc. Ask the youth program staff if you have any questions!
• Understand what the youth program activities are, and if they are appropriate for your child.
• Ask about medication procedures if your child needs medication during the youth program (minors are not allowed to self-medicate other than emergency inhalers or EpiPens and similar emergency medications).
• Ask about the youth program's code of conduct, and discuss it with your child.
• Make sure you notify the youth program about other individuals who are authorized to pick up your child.

Concerns/Questions?

Parents and guardians are encouraged to discuss any concerns they may have with the youth program staff. However, Risk Management is responsible for enforcing compliance with these standards and can always be reached at 940-898-2924 or Risk@TWU.edu.

Even though the full minors on campus program does not apply to minors who are students or TWU employees, you can contact Risk Management with questions. Student Life and Human Resources are also available for concerns related to students or employees who are minors.

You can also report concerns anonymously via the Ethics and Compliance Hotline.

For emergencies, you can always contact campus police.