Procedures for programs involving minors to take effect

The Operating Procedures for Programs Involving Minors announced in January take effect for all programs that begin on or after May 1. The procedures are part of the University's continuing efforts to provide a safe and secure environment for faculty, staff, students and visitors.

The steps, as outlined in the procedures, require sponsors of programs that include minors as participants to register their program with the University. As part of the registration, sponsors must certify that the program staff has undergone background checks and received training and that minimum safety provisions have been met.

This process of registration and certification serves a twofold purpose. First, it affords the University the opportunity to better communicate to sponsors of programs that involve minors what is expected of them, and second, it provides the University with a better understanding of the programming offered to minors by the University and by sponsors who use its facilities.

All colleges, schools, departments, offices and other units of the University are required to follow the procedures. Third parties who host a program on University-owned property also are required to follow the procedures. Exclusions to the procedures are as follows:

* Performances or events open to the general public and not targeted to minors (e.g., varsity athletic events, concerts, plays, etc.)

* Regularly scheduled classes, including dual-credit courses, or activities designed primarily for enrolled students of the University.

* Student recruitment activities, including open houses and admissions visits and tours, that are scheduled to last no longer than one day and do not include an overnight stay.

* National tests offered by a University testing center.

* Programs for which a recognized student organization is the sponsor.

* University research involving minors as human subjects.

Questions about the procedures may be sent to policies@purdue.edu.