At our summer camp, we focus on creating a positive, safe, and supportive environment where campers can engage, learn, and grow. We will use the CHARACTER COUNTS program to promote character traits that will help campers build strong relationships and develop personal responsibility. The six core character traits are:

• Trustworthiness
  Be honest; do not deceive, cheat, or steal. Be reliable by doing what you say you will do. Have the courage to do the right thing and be loyal to your friends and other campers.

• Responsibility
  Treat others with respect and follow the Golden Rule. Be accepting of differences and use good manners. Be considerate of others’ feelings, and resolve conflicts peacefully. Do not threaten, hit, or hurt others.

• Respect
  Be accountable for your words, actions, and attitude. Set a good example for others and strive to do your best. Practice self-control and think before you act.

• Fairness
  Play by the rules, take turns, and share. Be open-minded and listen to others. Do not take advantage of others or blame them unfairly. Treat everyone fairly and equally.

• Caring
  Be kind, compassionate, and considerate. Show gratitude, help those in need, and forgive others when necessary. Be charitable and generous in spirit.

• Citizenship
  Work to improve your community. Cooperate with others, volunteer, and respect authority. Follow laws and rules and protect the environment for future generations.
  
  

Camp Rules & Unacceptable Behavior

On the first day of camp, staff will collaborate with campers to help establish camp rules. Staff will also provide examples of behavior that will not be tolerated and may result in immediate expulsion from the camp:

• Endangering the health and safety of others (campers or staff)

• Bullying, teasing, or mocking campers and/or staff

• Engaging in physical violence or fighting

• Using profanity, obscenity, or vulgar language

• Stealing or damaging property
  
  

Disciplinary Procedures

We follow a progressive approach to discipline to ensure campers have the opportunity to reflect on and correct their behavior. The steps include:

1. Redirection: If a camper engages in inappropriate behavior, staff will redirect them toward more appropriate behavior.
   
   

2. Reminder: If the behavior continues, the camper will be reminded of the camp rules and guidelines. They will also be asked to identify how they can correct their behavior moving forward.
   
   

3. Time-Out: If the behavior still does not improve, the camper will be given a short time-out to think about their actions.
   
   

4. Conference: For campers who repeatedly display inappropriate behavior, a conference will be held with staff and the camper's parents, either by phone or at the end of the camp day.

Dismissal: As a final step, if the camper’s behavior continues to be disruptive or harmful to others, they may be dismissed from the camp. (Please note: Camper fees are non-refundable if a camper is sent home for disciplinary reasons.)