ST. PETER'S YOUTH MINISTRY RETREAT CODE OF CONDUCT

Students and parents must read and sign this form

We are excited to have you be a part of our retreat! Whether you are a member of St. Peter’s Youth Group or a guest, our youth ministry retreat policy of conduct is based on the expectation that we will conduct ourselves in a Christian manner during all activities. The following is a statement of conduct to be read and agreed to by your signature, as well as the signature of your

parent or guardian. We look forward to a great experience for all participants in this retreat!

1. Cell phones are not permitted on retreats. Cell phones distract from the purpose and

environment of the retreat experience. Adults may contact the youth leader(s), using the

information provided, to reach a participant. If the need arises, any participant may ask to

use a leader phone, under their supervision, to contact home. If a cell phone is found by

an adult, it will be held by the leadership until the end of the retreat.

2. Respect, listen to, and cooperate with the youth leader(s) and all adult leaders at all times.

Respect the facility we are using for the event. ALL students that are involved in the act

of breaking/damaging something will be expected to repair/replace the damaged item(s) at their expense.

3. Respect each person and all property. Bullying will not be tolerated under any

circumstances. We are committed to a safe and civil environment for ALL students and

leaders, free from harassment, intimidation or bullying. This means any intentional

written, verbal or physical acts that:

a. Physically harms a student or damages a student’s property; or

b. Has the effect of substantially interfering with a student’s retreat experience; or

c. Has the effect of substantially disrupting the orderly operation of the event.

Harassment, intimidation or bullying can take many forms including: slurs, rumors, jokes, innuendo’s, demeaning comments, drawings, pranks, gestures, or threats.

1. Refrain from using profanity, exhibiting improper behavior, using alcohol or substances, and possessing weapons.

2. Wear appropriate, modest clothing at all times. Inappropriate words, symbols, substance advertisements should not be displayed on clothing.

3. Students will not leave the supervisory presence of the youth ministry staff (or adult

volunteers) without permission. Failure to comply can jeopardize the safety of yourself,

others, leaders, or the group.

4. Students are expected to participate willingly in the planned activities. Students are here to explore and develop a growing relationship with Christ. There will be times that are fun and crazy, and times that are structured for learning. This is very intentional and will not be disrupted by a student/group of students that are seeking attention for themselves.

Failure to comply with the Code of Conduct Policy

First Step

When behavior contrary to our policy of conduct first occurs, the adult observing the behavior, or to whom the behavior is reported, shall address the person(s) responsible with a clear request that

the behavior be stopped, changed or avoided. The adult must use judgment as to whether or not the individual(s) knowingly behaved in a manner inconsistent with our statement of conduct. The severity of the behavior may require this step be bypassed and the next step to be enforced.

Step Two

If another of the same behavior contrary to our policy occurs involving the same individual(s) in step one, especially when it is considered to be occurring in a destructive, attention-seeking or belligerent fashion, then a second warning will be given and the parent(s) will be notified by the youth leader. The parent will be given the option to speak with the student and an appropriate solution will be agreed upon between the youth leader and parent.

Step Three

Should there be a third incident of behavior contrary to our policy, the parent(s) will be contacted immediately and asked to come get their teen. A resolution of reconciliation will be discussed and agreed upon with parents before the teen can return to youth group functions at St. Peter Church.