Student Handbook: Minors on Campus Policy Addendum—Day and Overnight Programs

This addendum addresses the staffing, training, and general policies for day and overnight programs at Fordham University, whether operated by University staff, students, and volunteers or by an outside organization pursuant to the Facilities Use Agreement.

1. All persons with supervisory authority of day or overnight programs at Fordham University must familiarize themselves with Article 48 of the New York City Health Code, to the extent applicable. Questions regarding the scope and applicability of Article 48 may be directed to the Office of Legal Counsel.

2. All programs shall provide trained counselors, who are at least 18 years of age or otherwise are authorized in accordance with Article 48 of the New York City Health Code.

3. The ratio of counselors to program participants must reflect the gender distribution of the participants, and should comply with New York State guidelines, including the following:

Standards for residential camps are:

    • One senior counselor for every six campers under age 8
    • One senior counselor for every eight campers age 8 or over

Standards for non-residential camps and programs are:

    • One senior counselor for every six campers/participants under the age of 6
    • One senior counselor for every nine campers/participants ages 6 to 7
    • One senior counselor for every twelve campers/participants age 8 and over

4. Training for the counselors shall include information about responsibility and expectations; policies, procedures, and enforcement; appropriate crisis/emergency responses, safety and security precautions; confidentiality issues involving minors; mandated reporting; and University responsibility/liability. Counselors must be instructed on how to request local emergency services and the reporting of suspected child abuse (counselors are considered mandated reporters as defined by New York law).

5. Responsibilities of the counselors include informing program participants about safety and security procedures, University and program rules, and behavioral expectations.