Youth Protection Policy

Introduction

TEAM Alliance is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and positive environment for all students participating in its programs and events. This Youth Protection Policy establishes basic expectations for adult behavior, supervision, and communication to help protect youth participants.

All adults participating in TEAM Alliance Programs are required to be aware of and follow this policy, as well as any additional youth protection policies or requirements established by Event Hosts. These may include national, state, local, or school district requirements such as background checks or other screenings, which must be followed based on the location and hosting organization.

TEAM Alliance Code of Conduct

The TEAM Alliance Code of Conduct supports student protection by setting clear expectations for safe, respectful, and appropriate behavior. Following this Code of Conduct helps prevent situations that could place students at risk and promotes a positive environment for all participants. All adults are expected to understand and model these behaviors at all times.

• Create a fun and positive environment that encourages learning, effort, and participation.
• Treat all participants, volunteers, staff, and attendees with kindness and respect.
• Ensure students lead the work while adults provide guidance and support.
• Compete with integrity and demonstrate good sportsmanship in all situations.
• Act in ways that protect the physical and emotional safety of all participants.
• Follow all TEAM Alliance rules, policies, and event guidelines.
• Respect the venue, equipment, and shared spaces and help keep them clean and safe.

Best Practices in Youth Protection

TEAM Alliance expects all adults to help create a safe and positive environment by following these best practices:

• Avoid one-on-one isolation: Do not be alone with a student in a private or non-observable setting. Interactions should be observable and interruptible, and group settings should be used whenever possible.
• Limit physical contact: Keep physical contact appropriate, minimal, and related to a clear educational or safety purpose, and only when another adult is present.
• Use appropriate communication: Avoid private or personal communication with students outside of team activities. Include a parent/guardian or another adult whenever possible.
• Treat all students equitably: Interact with all participants fairly, consistently, and respectfully.
• Prioritize safety at all times: Do not allow bullying, harassment, hazing, or unsafe behavior. Take action to stop or report situations that may put participants at risk.
• Prohibit controlled substances: Alcohol, tobacco, vaping, or other controlled substances must not be used during TEAM Alliance activities or provided to students.
• Promote safe environments: Ensure appropriate supervision during activities, including the safe use of tools, equipment, and facilities.
• Support safe travel and transitions: Students should only leave events with appropriate permission and supervision.
• Be prepared for emergencies: Adults should be aware of basic emergency procedures and ensure access to emergency contacts and necessary safety resources.

These practices are intended to reduce risk and promote transparency in all interactions with youth participants.

Reporting Requirements

Any adult who believes a student may be at risk, has experienced harm, or has witnessed inappropriate behavior must report their concern immediately. Reports should be made to Event Hosts or TEAM Alliance staff as soon as possible, and if required by law or if a student may be in immediate danger, local law enforcement should be contacted. Individuals should not attempt to investigate or intervene directly.

Types of Concerns to Report

Report any behavior that may place a student at risk, including:

• Physical harm or threats of harm
• Sexual or inappropriate conduct
• Emotional harm or intimidation
• Neglect or failure to provide proper care
• Bullying, harassment, or coercion
• Misuse or taking of a student’s belongings

How to Report

Concerns may be reported by:

• Contact local law enforcement if required by law or a student may be in immediate danger.
• Speaking directly with Event Hosts or TEAM Alliance staff.
• Submitting a written or electronic report to TEAM Alliance staff using youthprotection@teamalliance.org.
• Neglect or failure to provide proper care

All reports submitted to TEAM Alliance and Event Hosts will be taken seriously and reviewed promptly. TEAM Alliance may involve law enforcement or child protection agencies when appropriate.

Confidentiality & Accountability

• Reports will be handled as confidentially as possible
• Information will only be shared with those who need to know or as required by law
• Individuals who violate this policy may be removed from events or banned from future participation