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21-645ORDNANCE NO, 2 1 -645 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF DEMON ADOPTiNG STANDARDS OF CARE FOR RECREATIONAL CARE PROGRAMS ADWqISTERED BY DENTON’S PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT PURSUANr TO TEXAS HUMAN RESOURCES CODE SECTION 42.041 (b)(14); AND PROVIDiNG AN EFFECTIVE DATE. WHEREAS, the City of Denton (the “City“) recognizes that many children of school age need an organized program for recreational activities after the end of the school day and for other non-school days; and WHEREAS, the City, through its Parks and Recreation Department, proposes to operate After School Programs and Summer Camps for children to be operated at City Recreational Centers and schools of the Denton Independent School District; and WHEREAS, the City needs to adopt Standards of Care for these recreational programs so licensing as a day oare facility will not be necessary; and WHEREAS, the City has formulated a Standards of Care that at a minimum includes staffing ratios, minimum staff qualifications, minimum facility, health, and safety standards, and mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing the local standards; and further provides for notifying parents that the program is not licensed by the state and that the program may not be advertised as a day care facility; and WHEREAS, the Standards of Care attached hereto were considered by the Parks Board on April 12th and was approved by a vote of 6 to 0; and WHEREAS, on the 20th day of April, 2021, the City held a public hearing on the above Standards of Care as required by Section 42.041 (b)(14) of the Texas Human Resources Code; NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY DENTON HEREBY ORDAINS: SECTION 1. The recitals in the preamble of this ordinance are incorporated into the body of this ordinance as if set out fully herein. SECTION 2. The City adopts the Standards of Care for Recreational Care Programs which is attached as Exhibit “A“ and incorporated herein by reference as if written word for word pursuant to Section 42.041 (b)(14), Texas Human Resources Code. SECTION 3. The City further adopts the Denton Parks and Rec 2021 Summer Camp Parent Manual which is attached as Exhibit “B” and incorporated herein by reference as if written word for word. SECTION 4. This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon its passage and approval. The motion to aoDrove this seconded by gif OIXKoY\rY by the following vdte n - a]: 9rd®ce was made by -sa)q bOIS m ; the ordinance was passed and approved Aye \/ F V/ r br b/ \/ Nay Abstain Absent Mayor Gerard Hudspettr: Birdia Johnson. District 1 : Connie Baker District 2: Jesse Davis, District 3: John Ryan, District 4: Deb Anniator, At Large Place 5: Paul Meltzer, At Large Place 6: PASSED AND APPROVED this the ty of A pCI \ , 2021. iPETH. MAYOR \\11111111 ATTEST: ROSA RIOS, CITY SECRETARY al APPROVED AS TO LEGAL FORM: AARON LEAL, CITY ATroRNEY „=/” Page 2 UNITE. GROW, DENTON City of Denton Parks & Recreation Department CiQ of Denton Parks and Recreation Standards of Care 2021-2022 TABLE OF co}viENrs Standards of Care General Administration Organization Definitions 3 3 4 4Inspections Enrollmult Suspected Abuse Staffing - Responsibihdes and Training Youtlr/Feen/Center Supervisor Qualifieations Supervisor’s Responsibilities Coordimtor’s Quali6cations Program Coordinator's Responsibilities Program Specialist & Leader Qualifications Specialist and Leader Responsibilities Training/Orientation Operations Stan-Participant Ratio Discipline Programming Communication Transportation Facility Standards Safety 10 10 11 11 li 12 13 13 Fire Health Toad Facilities Sanitation +Programs include: After School Action Site, Camp Disoovery, Camp Conquest, Camp Voyage, Camp Exploration, Super Kids, Ciear Creek Camp, Kids’ Day OK, Teens’ Day Off, Holiday Camps, Spring Break Camps, Counselors in Training, and Teen Camp Any questions related to Standards of Care should be addressed to the Rec Care Supervisor at (940) 349-8730. 2 CITY OF DENTON PARKS AND RECREATION STANDARDS OF CARE The following Standards of Care have been adopted by the City Council of the City of Denton, Texas, in order to comply with Senate Bill 2 12 as approved by the Texas Legislature during the 74th legislative session. The Standards of Care are intended to be minimum standards by which the City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department will operate the City’s Youth Programs. The programs listed in this Standards of Care are recreational in nature and are not licensed day care programs. The City of Denton's recreational/camp programs are exempt from licensing under Texas Adminisbative Code 745.115(3). GENERAL ADMINISTRATION 1.Organization A. B. C. The governing body of the City of Denton Parks and Recreation Programs is the City of Denton City Council. Implementation of the Rec Care Programs Standards of Care is the responsibility of the Parks and Recreation Department Director and Departmental employees. Recreational Care Programs ("Program") to which these Standards of Care will apply are After School Action Site, Holiday Break Camps, Spring Break Camps, Kids Day Off, Teens’ Day Off, Camp Discovery, Camp Conquest, Camp Voyage, Camp Exploration, Super Kids, Clear Creek Camp, Counselors in Training, and Teen Summer Camp programs. D. E. Each Rec Care Program site will have available for public and staff review a current copy of the Standards of Care. Parents of participants will be provided the website address of where a current copy of the Standards of Care is located. F.Criminal background checks will be conducted on prospective staR. No person with conviction or who is under indictment for, or is the subject of an oaicial criminal complaint alleging violation of any of the crimes listed in the Texas Department of Protective and Regulatory Service's Day Care Center Minimum Standards and Guidelines Appendix II as same may be amended or a felony violation of the Texas Controlled Substance Act may be present while children are in care. An example of current Appendix II is attached as Exhibit A. 2 Definitions 3 A. B. C. D. City: City of Denton. City cowlca: City Council of the City of Denton. Department: Parks and Recreation Department of the City of Denton. Youth/Teen Programs or Program: City of Denton Youth/Teen Programs consisting of After School Action Site, Holiday Break Camps, Spring Break Camps, Kids Day Off, Camp Discovery, Camp Quest, Camp Voyage, Camp Exploration, Super Kids, Counselors in Training and Teen Sumner Camp programs. E. F. G. Program Manual: Notebook of policies, procedures, required forms, and organi7ationa1 and programming information relevant to City of Denton Programs. Director: City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department Director or his or her desioaee. Program Manager: City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department full-time Manager who has been assigned administrative responsibility for City of Denton Camp Programs. H Recreation Supervisor or Coordinator: City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department fUll-time employee who has been assigned responsibility to implement the City’s Rec Care Programs. 1.Program Site: Area and facilities where City of Denton Rec Care Programs are held consisting of Civic Center, Martin Luther King Recreation Center, DeniaRecnation Center, North Lakes Recreation Center, and McMath Middle School. J.Participant: A youth/teen whose parent(s) have aompleted all required registration procedures and determined to be eligible for a City of Denton Rec Care Program. K.Parent(s): This term will be used to represent one or both parent(s) or adults who have legal custody and authority to enroll their child(ren)/teen(s) in City of Denton Rec Care Programs. L.Employee(s) or Stafe Term used to describe people who have been hired to work for the City of Denton and have assigned responsibility for managing, administering, or implementing some portion of the City of Denton Rec Care Programs. 3.Inspections/Monitoring/Enforcement A A monthly inspection report will be initiated by the Supervisor or Coordinator of each Program to confiun the Standards of Care are being adhered to. 4 (1) (2) Inspection reports will be kept on record for at least two years. The Supervisor will review the report and establish deadlines and criteria for compliance with the Standards of Care. B:The Supervisor/Coordinators- will make visual inspections of the Program based on the following schedule: (1) (2) Each After School Program site will be inspected bimonthly; The Holiday & Spring Break Camp Program will be inspected once during its holiday schedule; and (3)Camp Exploration, Camp Voyage, Camp Discovery, Camp Conquest, Clear Creek Camp, and Super Kids will be inspected twice during the summer break (4)Teen Camp Program and Counselors in Training will be inspected once during the summer break; (5)The Kids' and Teen’ Day Off will be inspected two times a year; C.Complaints regarding enforcement of the Standards of Care will be directed to the Supervisor. The Supervisor will be responsible to take the necessary steps to resolve the problems. Complaints regarding enforcement of the Standards of Care and their resolution will be recorded by the Coordinator. Serious complaints regarding enforcement of the Standards of Care will be addressed by the Program Manager and the complaint and resolution will be noted. 4.Enrollment A Before a child can be enrolled, a parent must sign registration forms that contain the child’s: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) name, address, home telephone number; name, email, address ofparents and telephone number during Program hours; the names of people to whom the child can be released; a statement of the child's special considerations; emergency medical authorization; 5 (6)proof of residency when appropriate; and (7) a liability waiver. 5.Suspected Abuse Program employees will report suspected child abuse or neglect in accordance with the Texas Family Code. STAFFING - RESPONSIBILITIES AND TRAINING 6.Rec Care Supervisor ("Supervisor") Qualifications A.Supervisor will be fun-time, professional employees of the City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department and will be required to have all Program Leader or Coordinator qualifications as outlined in Section 10 of the docwnent. B. C. Supervisor must be at least 21 years old. Supervisor must have a bachelor’s degree aoman accredited college or University or at least five (5) years of direct supervision ofncwa£ional activities related to children ages 4-15 years of age. Acceptable degrees include: (1)Recreation Administration or General Recreation; (2) Physical Education; and (3)Any other comparable degree plan that would lend itself to working in a public recreation environment. D.Supervisor must have ave years experience planning and implementing recreational activities. E.Supervisor must pass a background investigation including testing for illegal substances. F.Supervisor must have successfully completed a course in first aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) based on either American Heart Association or American Red Cross standards. Supervisor must also complete a course in Defensive Driving. G.Supervisor must complete 10 hours of child care training per calendar year. 7 Supervisor’s Responsibilities 6 A. B. C. Supervisors are responsible to administer the Programs' daily operations in compliance with the adopted Standards of Care. Supervisors are responsible to recommend for hire, supervise, and evaluate Specialist, Coordinators and Leaders. Supervisors are responsible to plan, implement, and evaluate programs. 8.Program Coordinator (“Coordinator”) Qualifications A,Coordinator will be full-time, professional employees of the City of Denton Parks and Recreation Department and will be required to have all Program Leader or Specialist qualifications as outlined in Section 10 of the document except for section IOA B.Coordinator must have two years of experience planning and implementing recreational activities. C.Coordinator must pass a background investigation including testing for illegal substances. D.Coordinator must have successfully completed a course in first aid and Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) based on either American Heart Association or American Red Cross standards. Coordinator must also complete a course in Defensive Driving. E.Coordinators must complete 8 hours of child care training per calendar year. Training must be completed prior to their start date of child care programs and completed on an annual basis. 9 Coordinator Responsibilities A. B. C. F Coordinators are responsible to assist in the administration of the Programs’ daily operations in compliance with the adopted Standards of Care. Coordinators are responsible to assist in the recommendation for hiring, supervising, and evaluating Specialist and Leaders. Coordinators are responsible to assist in the planning, implementing, and evaluating programs. Coordinator’s will be required to provide aB Camp Supervisor/Counselors responsibilities as outlined in Section 1 1 of the document. 7 10.Camp Supervisor/Counselors Qualiacations A. B. C. Camp Supervisor/Counselors will be pad-time or temporary employees of the Parks and Recreation Department. Camp Supervisor/Counselors working with children must be age 18 or older. Camp Supewisor/Counselors should be able to consistently exhibit competency, good judgment, and self-control when working with children. D. E. Camp Supervisor/Counselors must relate to chiklrea with courtesy, respect, tolerance, and patience. Camp Supervisor/Counselors must have successfully completed a course in first aid, CPR, and AED training based on either American Heart Association or American Red Cross standards. An exception can be made for no more than one staff person at each site, and that person shall successfully complete a first aid and CPR course within four weeks of starting work. F.Camp Supervisor/Counselors must pass a background investigation including testing for illegal substances. H.Camp Supervisor/Counselors must complete 8 hours of child care training per calendar year. Training must be camplaed prior to their start date of child care programs and completed on an annual basis. 11.Camp Supervisor/Counselors Responsibilities A.Camp Supervisor/Cowwelus will be responsible to provide participants with an environment in which they can feel safe, can enjoy wholesome recreation activities, and can participate in appropriate social opportunities with their peers. B.Camp Supervisor/Counselors will be responsible to know and follow all City, Depmtmental, and Program standards, policies, and procedures that apply to City of Denton Youth/Teen Programs. C.Camp Supervisor/Counselors must ensure that participants are released only to a parent or an adult designated by the parent. All Program sites will have a copy of the Department approved plan to verify the identity of a person authorized to pick up a participant if that person is not known to the Camp Supervisor/Counselors. 12 Training/Orientation A.The DeFwtment is responsible for providing training and orientation to employees in 8 working with children and for specific job responsibilities. Supervisors and Coordinators will provide each Camp Supervisor/Counselors with a program manual specific to each Rec Care Program. On-line child care training may be completed in lieu of departmental training for 3 hours of the required 8 hours per year. B. C. D. E. Program employees must be familiar with the Standards of Care for Rec Care Program operation as adopted by the City Council. Program employees must be familiar with the Program’s policies including discipline, guidance, and release of participants as outlined in the Program Manual. Prow'am employees will be trained in appropriate procedures to handle emergencies. Program employees will be trained in areas including City, Departmental and Program policies and procedures, provision of recreation activities, safety issues, child development, and organization. F.Program employees wai be required to sign an acknowledgment that they received the !equired training. OPERATIONS 13.Staff.Participant Ratio A.In a City of Denton Rec Care Program, the standard ratio of participants to Leaders will be 17 to 1. In the event a Leader is unable to report to the Program site, a replacement will be assigned. B.Each participant shall have a Program employee who is responsible for him or her and who is aware ofthe participant’s habits, interests, and any special considerations as identified by the participant’s parent(s) during the registration process. 14.Discipline A.Program employees will implement discipline and guidance in a consistent manner based on the best interests of Program participants. B. C. D There must be no cruel or harsh punishment or treatment. Program employees may use brief, supervised separation from the group ifnecessaly. As necessary, Program employees will initiate discipline reports to the parent(s) of participants. Parents will be asked to sign discipline reports to indicate they have been advised about specific problems or incidents. 9 E. F. A su#icient number and/or severe nature of discipline reports as detailed in the Program Manual may result in participant being suspended from the Program. In instances where there is a danger to padicipants or staff, offending participants will be removed from the Program site as soon as possible. 15.Programming A.Program employees will attempt to provide activities for each group according to the participants1 ages, interests, and abilities. The activities must be appropriate to participants' health, safety, and well-being. The activities also must be flexible and promote the pmticipants’ emotional, social, and mental growth. B.Program employees win attempt to provide that indoor and outdoor times include: (1)alternating active and passive activities; (2)opportunity for individual and group activities; and (3)outdoor time each day weather permits. C.Program employees will be attentive and considerate of the panicipants' safety on field trips and during any Uansportation provided by the Program. (1)During trips, Program employees supervising participants must have immediate access to emergency medical forms and emergency contact information for each participant. (2)Program employees must have a written list of the participants in the group and must check the roll hequently. (3)Program employees must have first aid supplies and a guide to first aid and emergency care available on field trips. 16 Communication A.Each Program employee will have the option to use their own cell phone device or use a city provided oeIJ phone to allow the staff to be contacted by Parks and Recreation personnel, and for use in contacting the Supervisor, Coordinator, or making emergency calls. B The Supervisor or Coordinator will post the following telephone numbers adjacent to a telephone accessible to all Program employees at each site: 10 ( 1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) Transportation A. Before a participant may be transported to and from city sponsored activities, a City waiver fOUII, completed by the parent of the pwdcipant, must be filed. First aid supplies will be available in all Program vehicles that transport children. All children must be securely seated in the appropdate safety seat/booster based on state child safety laws. All vehicles used for aanspoding participants must have available a 6-BC portable fire extinguisher which will be installed in the passenger compartment of the vehicle and must be accessible to the adult occupants. Volunteers A. The City of Denton accepts volunteers from AmedCorps, Foster Grandparents and other similar organizations Volunteers are not included in ratio counts Volunteers Requirements (1 ) Pass City background check (2) Wear volunteer identi6cation (3) Receive site specific training (4) Volunteer under the supervision of City staff Denton ambulance or ernergeaey medical services; City of Denton Police Department; City of Denton Fire Department; Civic Center, Recreation Centers, Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center, and McM&h Middle School; Numbers at which parents may be reached; and The telephone number for the site itself 17. B. C. D. 18 B. C. 11 FACILITY STANDARDS 18.Safety A. B. Program employees will visually inspect Program sites daily to detect sanitation and safety concerns that might affect the health and safety of the participants. Buildings, grounds, and equipment on the Program site will be inspected, cleaned, repaired, and maintained to protect the health of the participants. C.Program equipment and supplies must be safe for the participants’ use. D. E. F. G. Program employees must have first aid supplies readily available at each site, as well as during transportation and duration of any off-site activity, Program air ooaditioners, electric fans, and heaters must be mounted out of participants' reach or have safeguards that keep participants from being injured. Program porches and platforms more than 30 inches above the ground must be equipped with railings participants can reach. All swing seats at Program sites must be constructed of durable, lightweight, relatively pliable material. H.Program employees must have first aid supplies readily available to staff in a designated location. 19.Fire A. B. In case of fire, danger of fire, explosion, or other emergency, Program employees' first priority is to evacuate the padicipants to a designated safe area. The Program site will have a biennial fire inspection by the local Fire Marshal, and the resulting report will detail any safety concerns obsewai. The report will be forwarded to the Program Manager who will review and establish deadlines and criteria for compliance. C.Each site must have at least one fire extinguisher approved by the Fire Marshal readily availaUe to all employees. The fire extinguisher is to be inspected monthly by the camp supervisors or counselors. All Program employees will be trained in the proper use of fire extinguishers. D Fire drills will be initiated at Program sites based on the following schedule: (1)After School Program: A fire drill once every three months. 12 (2) (3) Spring Break Camp and Holiday Camp: A gre &iII once during the session Camp Exploration, Camp Voyage, Camp Discovery, Camp Conquest, Clear Creek Camp, and Super Kids: A fire drill twice during the session. (4) Health Teen Camp and Counselors in Training: A are drill once during session. 20. A.Illness or Injury (1) (2) (3) A participant who is considered to be a health or safety concern to other participants or employees will not be admitted to the Program. Illnesses and injuries will be handled in a manner to protect the health of all participants and employees. Program employees will follow plans to provide emergency care for injured participants with symptoms of an acute illness as specified in the Program manual. (4)Program employees will follow the recommendation of the Toms Department of Health concerning the admission or readmission of any participant after a communicable disease. B Program employees will administer medication only in ( 1)Parent(s) complete and sign a medication form that provides authorization for employee to dispense medication with details as to time and dosages. The form will include a hold harmless clause to protect the City. (2)Prescription medications are in the original containers labeled with the child's name, a date, directions, and the physician's name. Program employees will administer the medication only as stated on the label. Program employees will not administer rnedioation aBer the expired date. (3)Nonpnsuiption medications are labeled with the child’s name and the date the medication was brought to the Program. Nonprescription medication must be in the original container. Program employees will only administer nonprescriptionmedications if a doctor's note is provided and only according to label direction. (4)Medication dispensed will be limited to routine oral ingestion not requiring 13 special knowledge or skills on the part of Program employees. (5)Program employees must ensure medications are inaccessible to participants or, if it is necessary to keep medications in the refrigerator (when available), medications will be kept separate from food. (6)Children who may require epi-pen injections due to severe allergic reactions must oomplete an Anaphylaxis Emergency Action Plan (AEAP) before their child starts the program. Staff will administer the epi-pen in case of emergency based on the instructions stated on the AEAP. C.Toilet Facilities (1) (2) The Program site will have inside toilets located and equipped so children can use them independently and Program staff can supervise as needed. There must be one (1) flush toilet for every 30 children. Urinals may be counted in the ratio oftoilets to children, but they must not exceed 50% ofthe total number of toilets. (3)An appropriate and adequate number of lawtories will be provided. D Sanitation (1) (2) The Program facilities must have adequate light, ventilation, and heat. The Prograin must have an adequate supply of water meeting the standards of the Texas Department of Health for drinking water and ensure that it will be supplied to the participants in a safe and sanitary manner. (3)Program employees must see that gmbage is removed from buildings daily. 14 Exhibit B Denton Parks and Rec 2021 Summer Camp Parent Manual UNITE, GROW Denton Parks and Rec TABLE OF CONTENTS DENTON PARKS AND REC CAMP coNTAcr tNFORMATION ..___._.____..__________,__._._..._.__.._._....._._..__...4 CAMP MISSION STATEMENT .____.......__..______.._.__.._..._____.___.__...__.___._____._...___.__. __.___...___.5 CMP GOALS ..........,............_.................................._......._........___...................................,.,..........................,.,......__........ 5 CAMP STANDARDS ...__.._.__...._..._.__._._....._._._....____.._.._.,___..__.____.______.__._____.,..._..______.__. 5 CAMP SUPERVISION ___._____....__'.__._._.______...__._.___....___.______.___.._..__..___...__.__..__._______. 5 CAMP OPERATIONS ...__....___„.._..._..__.__.___....__._..__....______..____.._____.___.____.__......___...._.___._.5 SIGN IN AND SIGN our PROCEDURES............,...................................................................................................,..........6 LATE PICK UP OF A CAMPER........................,,................................................................................................................ 6 BEFORE AND ArrER CARE __.._._____._____.___..,._.._________._____...__._......„._....._.__...___._._..__„_..___.6 FIELD TRIPS ....................................,....................................................,......................................................,.........,.,.......6 TRANSPORTATION ........................_.................,.....................................,........................................................................7 PARENTAL VISITS ............................................._....................................................................,..............,........,............,....7 CHANGE OF CLOTHES .............................................................................................................,..,.... 7 WATER BREAKS.....................,..............................................................................................................................,.........? FREE LUNCH PROGRAM...................................................................................................................................,.....,....... 7 SNACKS AND LUNCH.......................................................................................................,....................................,,........ 8 WATER AND OLrrDOOR ACrlVITIES............................................................................................................,.................. 8 SWIM DAYS AND SWIM TESTS .__________._______.__.__,________._.'_._..__.________.___..____._.„___.__. 8 WEAT tIER...............................................................,........................................................................ 8 DEPOSITS AND PAYMEHrs ,........_.._._.....................,..........._......................_..............._...._.,...... 8 CAMP DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS .........._..._..._._............_..._.........._..._._................_...._......... 8 REFUNDPOLICV.....................................,.....................,.......................................................,.........................................9 MEDICAL REFUNDS FOR SUMMER CAMP ........__.......„......____........._._._........_......_...._........ 9 PASt DUE ACCOUNTS..................................................................................................................... 9 BAD CHECKS........................................................,............................................................,.............. 9 SCHOLARSHIP POLICY ..,,................,......................................................................................................................_,..... 10 FREE SCHOLARSHIPS........................,............................................_.............................................................................. 10 PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS ......................................................................................................................................._...., 10 HANDWASHING.................,...............................................................,........................................., 10 EQUIPrMENT CLEANING .....__,._.._.._..._._..........................._..._......_..._.................._.............. 11 SOCIAL Dl£rANCING STRATEGIES ......................_........................................................................ 11 PARriCiPANT PERSONAL PROTECriVE E(IUIPMEIW ................................,..............................,... 11 ILLNESS OF PARrICiPANiS ...._....__................._.._........_..._..._.._.......__..........._........_.._......_ 11 IF COVID.19 SYMPrOMS ARE REPORTED....................,............................................................... 11 MEDICATION................................................................................................................................. 12 EPI.PENS.................,..............,...............................,....................................................,.................. 12 HEAD LICE .„....._..........._....._............_._.„......,.,.................._._........_..._........_.......................... 12 FOOD ALLERGIES .........................._....._.....__........................_............_...___.................._......... 13 £xPEcrATIONS _________._._...__..„..___._._..____...__._._____..._._____..__________.__.__,___...._._._.__._ 13 CAMPER CODE OF coNDUcr __.._.___.___..._._..__........__...._.._._._........___..._..._...._......__...._..___...._..._.._. 13 ZERO TOLERANCE ..._...__.............._......__.._._............._..._.__.._._........._............_....._............ 13 DISCIPLINE ..................._.._..........._....._..............,.._.........,....__......_......_._....._.._...._.............. 13 BULLYING & HARASSMENT..........,............................................................................................... 14 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION..........,...........................,....._........................................................................................... 14 CUSTODY SITUATIONS ........................................._.........................,........._...................,............. 14 WEAPONS ......_...................................................,......................................................................... 14 2 REPORTING ABUSE AND NEGLECr........................................................................,.................,.... 14 SOCIAL MEDIA AND PHOTO RELEASE.......................................................................................... 14 NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY ....._._.._......,...._.._..,._...._..._,.....,........,...._._.._...._....,............ 15 PARENTAI/GAURDIAN CONDUCt ............................................................................................... 15 PAREFrAL NOTIFICATION/CHANGES ............................,..,....................,..........,..............,.......,... 15 FAQ FOR CAMPERS ......................................,..................,...................,.................,...................................................... 1S DENTON PARKS AND REC CAMP coNTAcr INFORMATION CAMP CONQUEST North Lakes Rec Center, 2CX>1 W. Windsor Dr. Remind - @dentonccon CAMP DISCOVERY M LK Jr. Rec Center, 1300 Wilson St. Remind - @dentoncd CAMP EXPLORATION Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St. Remind - @denton a CAMP VOYAGE Denia Rec Center, ICXJl Pawin St. Remind - @dentonw CLEAR CREEK CAMP Clear Creek Natural Heritage Center, 3310 Collins Rd. Remind - @dentonccc SUPER KIDS CAMP McMath Middle School, 1900 Jason Dr. Remind - @dentonsk TEEN CAMP Denton Civic Center, 321 E. McKinney St. Remind - @dentontc Parks and Rec Admin Desk, (940) 34$7275 Camp Absences VoicemaII {940) 349.8723 Jodi McClaren, Recreation Coordinator (940) 349-8731 Sara EarNs, Recreation SupervIsor W) 349-8730 Denton Parks and Rec webpage www.dentonparks.com CAMP MISSION £rATEMEVr To unite and grow lives by preserving parks and encouraging play. CAMP GOALS • To provide a fun day, every day, for each camper and to help them realize their full potential by giving them the opportunity to be creative and grow. © To develop each child’s confidence and leadership skills through group activities. • To help campers work and play together recognizing the differences that make them unique and special. • To help develop friendships with other campers and counselors. CAMP STANDARDS Denton’s City Council adopts the Standards of Care to comply with Senate Bill 212 as approved by the Texas Legislature during the 74th legislative session. Denton Parks and Rec uses the Standards of Care for summer camp operations. Our camps are recreational in nature and not licensed day cares. Our summer camps are exempt from State licensing under Texas Administrative Code 745.115(3). The Standards of Care are available at www.dentonparks.com. CAMP SUPERVISION We feel confident we have the best -counselors around! They are as diverse as your campers. Many members of our team are enrolled in teaching credential programs and are college students or full-time teachers. We strive to hire highly qualified, well-trained counselors that are at least 18 years old. We screen all counselors for drug and background checks and require First Aid, CPR, AED, Van Driver Trainin& and Defensive Driving Course completion. Our staff to camper ratio is 1:17. Staff to camper ratios will not allow us to provide 1:1 attention to individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living (toileting, feeding, etc.) or who are an elopement risk or who exhibit severe behaviors (hitting, biting, explicit behaviors). LOGISTICS CAMP OPERATIONS Camps operate from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day with structured activities from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with free play before 8:30 a.m. and after 5 p.m. Summer camps operate June 1– August 6. Camps have weekly themes with field trips, games, learning activities, crafts, etc. Weekly schedules are provided the Friday before each week. Schedules are subject to change. Campers are divided by age and assigned to specific counselors and groups, Most of the activities are done in groups, please let us know if you want your child grouped with a specific camper. 5 SIGN IN AND SIGN our PROCEDURES Parents or adults (18 or older) are required to sign the camper }n and out each day; no drops off are allowed. Please come to the table in front of the camp area, the child will have their temperature taken by a staff member. The camper must have a temperature of less than 100.0 degrees to enter camp. Parents are not able to enter the camp area. The camper will be asked to wash their hands before they participate in any activities. Camper must be dropped off between 7-9 a,m., or 9-10 a.m. for Clear Creek Camp. Please bring photo ID for pickup. Come to the same table the camper was checked in for the morning. Do not enter the camp area. If an unauthorized adult arrives to pick up a camper, the sign-in/out policy will be provided, and parents will be called to verify theIr identity before releasing the camper. You may pick up between 4-6 p.m. daily. If you need to make other arrangements , please call 94&349-8723. Campers may be signed in as early as 7 a.m. and signed out no later than 6 p.m. Campers must be signed in by 8:30 a.m. on field trip days for all camps other than Clear Creek Camp. Please call in camp absences to 940-349-8723. LATE PICK UP OF A CAMPER Campers picked up late between 6-6: 15 p.m. will be accessed a SS late fee. Every minute thereafter is $1 per minute. Each subsequent late pick up within the same week will double the late fee by the day. Please call if you’re running late. Emergency contacts will be notified if the camper has not been picked up by 6:15 p.m. The late fee must be paid at check in the following day. If your child has not been picked up by 8 p.m., the City of Denton Police will be notified and will file a report and release your child into the custody of Child Protective Services. BEFORE AND ArrER CARE For campers who are registered for camps that do not start at 7 a.m. or end between 3-4 p.m., Denton Parks and Rec offers Before and/or After Care. Campers can be dropped off at the Denton Civic Center between 7-8 a.m. and will be transported to their various specialty camps. Before Care campers must be dropped off no later than 8 a,m. For After Care, campers will be picked up at their specialty camp location and transported to the Denton Civic Center. Campers may not be picked up before 5 p.m. daily. Campers must be picked up by 6 p.m. or will be subject to late pick up fees. Campers will be transported in a marked city vehicle with the appropriate booster seat, if required. For more information, contact the Recreational Care staff at 940-349-8730. FIELD TRIPS On field trip days, campers must wear the camp T-shirt and bring a sack lunch with a drink unless told otherwise. Check the weekly calendar for additional information about the Betd trips including departure and arrival times and additional items needed. We do not provide 6 accommodatIons for late campers, but parents can drop them off at the field trip location but must notify staff .„.. For a complete list of field trips, visit www.dentonparks.com. Designated Field Trip Days: Super Kids Camp Tuesday Camp Conquest Wednesday Camp Discovery Wednesday Camp Voyage Wednesday Clear Creek Camp Wednesday Camp Exploration Thursday TRANSPOFrATiON Campers will travel in either charter buses, Denton ISD school busses, or City vans that require car seats or booster seats, based on age and weight. The air-conditioned vans come with adjustable seat belts, and we follow all safety procedures as outlined by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services. PARENTAL VISITS Due to COVID-19, we will not be allowing parent visits to camp. If you want to spend one-on- one time with your camper on a field trip or during camp activities, you will be required to sign them in and out and not be integrated with the camp. CHANGE OF CLOTHES Campers must be potty'trained and able to use the restroom without assistance. Accidents happen, so please pack a change of clothes every day. Parents will be notified to bring a change of clothes if needed. HYDRATION AND FOOD WATER BREAKS We have rest and water breaks built into the daily schedule, although we encourage campers to stop and break as needed, no matter what the activity. Campers are encouraged to bring a water bottle daily. FREE LUNCH PROGRAM Campers are provided a free lunch if indicated on the registration form. Lunch is provided by the STH Project Summer Food Program and includes a main course, side, and milk. Lunch will not be provided on field trips unless otherwise noted. The summer food program ends August 5 7 SNACKS AND LUNCH Please send two snacks and drinks daily. Soda and snack vending machines are available at some locations, please send exact change. Campers not participating in the free lunch program must bring a lunch every day. WATER AND OUTDOOR AcrlVITIES SWIM DAYS AND SWIM TESTS Always pack a swim suit, towel, and sunscreen the first day of camp. Designated Swim Days at Water Works Park, Civic Center Pool, or Denton Natatorium: Camp Exploration Super Kids Camp Camp Conquest Camp Discovery Camp Voyage Clear Creek Camp Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Monday, Wednesday, and Friday Tuesday and Thursday Tuesday and Thursday Tuesday and Thursday Tuesday and Thursday Per the registration form and with permission, campers are administered a swim test. If passed, they will be allowed to swim in all pool areas and all areas on water field trips. Please notify counselors if your camper needs to stay in the shallow end. SUN PROTECrION A large portion of the day is spent outdoors, so apply sunscreen to your camper before sending them to camp. We also need campers to reapply sunscreen as much as possible, therefore we need campers to pack additional sunscreen each day. We encourage campers that are prone to sunburn to wear a swim shirt and hat. Communicate to counselors any sun-related concerns regarding your camper, so 'we can assist with applying sunscreen for the safety of the child. WEATHER We strictly adhere to ozone alerts and adjust schedules as needed to accommodate severe weather conditions. DEPOSITS AND PAYMENTS CAMP DEPOSITS AND PAYMEHrs All weekly camp balances are due in advance on the below due dates. Payments are due nine (9) days prior to the camp start date at midnight. Payments can be made online at dentonparks.com, in person, or over the phone. We do not issue credits or prorate for days unattended. Camp deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. If your payment is not received by the due date, you may lose your spot in the camp and your deposit. Your spot will be filled with someone off the waitlist the day after payment is due. 8 Dates June 1.4, 2021 June 7.11, 2021 June 14-18, 2021 June 21-25, 2021 June 28-July 2, 2021 July 6-9, 2021* July 12-16, 2021 July 19-23, 2021 July 26-30, 2021 August 2-6, 2021 Times 7 a.m m 7 a.m. -6 p.m. 7 a.m. -6 p.m 7 a.m. -6 p.m. 7 a.m. -6 7 a.rn. -6 p.m 7 a.m. -6 p.m 7 a.m. -6 p.m 7 a.m. -6 p.m 7 a.m. -6 p.m. bll_Bug Balance Due Date June 6, 2021 June 13, 2021 June 20, 2021 June 27, 2021 July 4, 2021 July 11, 2021 July 18, 202:1 July 25, 2021 5110 $125 §125 $125 $125 *No Camp July ! REFUND POLICY A refund, minus the $20 deposit fee, will be issued if the camper is withdrawn by 5:OO p.m. the Thursday prior to the start date. If you pay in full and do not attend camp, no refund or credits will be given after the payment due date. Please refer to the phone nurnbers provided per camp to process a withdrawal, leave a message if necessary to time stamp your request. Refunds will be issued in the form of a credit back to the original card or check. MEDICAL REFUNDS FOR SUMMER CAMP Please do not send your child with illness including, but not limited to, a cold, infection, virus, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever within the previous 24 hours, or suspected communicable disease. If your child falls ill or has a medical accident that would prevent them from participating in camp, a doctor’s note must be provided within 30 days of the program to receive a credit. The money for the activity will be credited to your account. PAST DUE ACCOUNTS The family account will be blocked from registering for any new DPARD programs until past due payments are paid in full and any past due monies owed may go to a collection agency for payment. Any days the participant attends the program without payment are still owed before any account member can register for another class. BAD CHECKS Checks that do not clear the bank for any reason will be subject to a $27 NSF fee assessed by the City and a $20 1ate payment fee assessed by Parks and Recreation. A notice will be provided at the camp site and payment must be made by the specified date or the child will be dropped from the camp program. Two bad checks written in any one year will result in no checks being accepted on the account. If an account has 2 bad checks, all payments will need to be made by money order, cash, Visa, MasterCard and Discover. You can still pay in person at the recreation centers or online at www.dentonparks.com and all due dates will apply. 9 SCHOLARSHIP POLICY An scholarshIps are non-transferable, and they cannot be replaced with additional scholarship funds due to the non-use of the original scholarship. FREE SCHOLARSHIPS Free camp scholarship abides by the following policies: • Campers must attend at least eight hours of camp per day. • if a camper attends a day of camp for less than eight hours, this will be considered an absence. To receive credit for attending camp, the child must attend at least eight hours between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. + Any camper missing five consecutive days, or 10 total days will be dropped from camp. This Includes absences due to behavior, Illness, vacatIons, death in the family, school events, or any other personal or family reason. • if the camper is no longer able to attend due to the absence policy, the participant’s account will be ineligible to apply for any PARD scholarships or other free or subsidized camp program for a full two years from the date of occurrence. PARTIAL SCHOLARSHIPS There is a limited amount of scholarships available to help partially cover the cost of a program or event offered by Parks and Recreation. Each eligible family member is limited to a maximum of 5150 in partial scholarships per year. The following policy applies: • if you do not intend to use the scholarship awarded, you must provide at least five days business days’ notice to cancel the scholarship. • Scholarships are non-transferable. If you chose to drop a scholarship with proper notice, you will not be able to replace that scholarship with an additional week. • Failure to provide proper notice will result in losing all the remaining scholarships allocated and the individual participant will not be eligible for additional Denton Parks and Rec scholarships for two full years. • Camp deposits cannot be refunded, transferred, or credited. MEDICAL INFORMATION HANDWASHING Upon entry to the camp site, the camper will stop at the restroom to wash their hands with soap. All campers and staff will wash their hands upon arrival, between activities, before snack, lunch, or any other food activities. If handwashing is unavailable, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol will be provIded. City of Denton programs will comply with the CDC’s guidelines for handwashing. 10 EQUIPfMENT CLEANING City of Denton Day Camps will routinely dean, sanitize, and disinfect surfaces and objects that are frequently touched, including toys and games. Each site will keep a log of items cleaned. Programs will follow the guidelines set by Caring For Our Children. SOCIAL DISTANCING STRATEGIES Summer camps will continue using preparedness strategies and consider the following social distancing strategies: • When possible, divide student into small groups. Students should include the same group each day, and the same counselors should rentain with the same group each day. • When possible, we will keep each small group of students in a separate room. • We will limit the rnixing of campers, such as staggering playground times and keeping groups separate for special activIties such as art, music, and exercising. • When possible, each student will be separated 6 feet apart. PARTICIPANT PERSONAL PROTEaIVE EQUIPMENT The CDC recommends that anyone over the age of 2 wear a cloth face mask when they are out in the community. Parents may provide their camper with a cloth face mask. The City of Denton is not able to provide participants with a cloth face mask and are not responsible for lost face masks. Masks and gloves will not be provided for student’s personal use. Summer camps will follow any city or county mandates for face coverings. ILLNESS OF PARTICIPAMS Please do not send your child with illness including, but not limited to, a cold, infection, virus, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever within the previous 24 hours, or suspected communicable disease. Children must be free of symptoms and/or fever without the cold or fever reducing remedies before returning to the ASAS program. Parents/emergency contacts will be notified by phone if a child becomes ill. If necessary, we will request a child be picked up within one hour of notificatIon . Depending on the symptoms a person is showing, they may have to be isolated from the group. They will be isolated with the counselor they have spent the day with. In the event of critical illness or injury, proper medical personnel and parents will be notified. At the discretion of medical personnel, the child may be transported to an emergency room or clinic by ambulance. Parents are responsible for expenses incurred. IF COVI DIg SYMPTOMS ARE REPORTED If COVID-19 is confirmed in a participant or staff member, we will: • Clean in accordance with CDC guidelines, while maintaining routine cleaning and disinfection . 11 e In accordance with state and local laws and regulations, camp administrators should notify staff, and families immediately of any case of COVID-19 while maintaining confidentiality in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Notification will be by email or phone. Advise those who have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COV ID-19 to separate themselves, self-monitor for symptoms, and follow CDC guidance if symptoms develop. Should the camp need to close, provide refunds. Transferring to another camp will not be allowed. + a In accordance with CDC guidelines, a person can return to camp when: If a person tested positive and had symptoms. o 10 days since symptoms first appeared and o 24 hours with no fever without the use of fever-reducing medications and o Other symptoms of COVID-19 are improving • • Ifa person tested positive but did not have symptoms. o Continued no symptoms o 10 days since the positive test If a person has been in direct contract with a COViD positive person. o 14 days from the direct exposure e This policy may change as updates are made by the CDC. MEDICATION Signed medical release forms are required for campers needing prescription medication during camp hours. Counselors are only allowed to administer the dosage stated on the label. Medications must be in original containers, labeled with the camper’s name, physician’s name, date, and directions. Medications requiring refrigeration must be noted on the medical form. The only location that can’t accommodate refrigeration is McMath Middle School. Over-the-counter drugs, such as Benadryl, can only be administered by counselors if it is accompanied by a letter from the child’s physician. Parents are responsible for picking up medications on the last day of camp. EPI-PENS Epi-pens may be administered by counselors, but an Anaphylaxis Emergency Action Plan form must be completed by the parent and the child’s doctor before administration. HEAD LICE If a camper is found to have the presence of live adult or nymph lice, the parent/guardian will be contacted immediately. The camper may remain in camp until picked up; counselors will monitor for close contact (head to head) with other campers, taking care not to isolate or 12 Identify the camper to others. The camper may return when nits and lice are no longer present. Other camp partIcipants will be notified of the presence of IIce in the camp by emaII. FOOD ALLERGIES Please make sure that aN food allergies are listed on your information form and that they are brought to the attention of camp staff. Please do not have your child share their snack due to food allergies. We cannot ensure the free lunch program by the STH Project is allergen free. EXPECrATiONS CAMPER CODE OF CONDUCI • Take responsibility for your actions + Respect othersand their property • Listen to the counselors e Keep hands, feet, and other objects to yourself at all times • Remain in the camp area at all times e Participate in activities e Refrain from using foul language, fighting, and arguIng ZERO TOLERANCE Denton Parks and Recreation reserves the right to suspended or expel a camper immediately for violation of the Zero Tolerance guidelines without refund. • Inflicting physical harm on another individual • Verbal threats that may cause physical harm to another individual or destroy property e Possession of a weapon, controlled substance, or alcohol • Use of foul language + Inappropriate touchIng of another individual + Theft • ViewIng of inappropriate material + Not staying within the boundaries of the camp or field trip • Refusal to follow staffs direction in a non-camp area, like a field trip (such as, not returning to the van when instructed) DISCIPLINE Denton Parks and Recreation is committed to providIng a safe, positive, and respectful envIronment for all our campers. Campers, families, and friends are expected to follow the Code of Conduct as well as aN applicable Denton Parks and Recreation rules and regulations, to ensure a posItive experience for all. Staff wIll address behavior when Issues arise. • Verbal warning • Re-direction to another activity • Time away without activities • Meeting with Camp Supervisor, parent, and camper • Notice of suspension from care without refund for up to 5 business days 13 • Conference with Camp Director, parent, and camper • Removal from camp program or suspension from all Parks and Recreation activities for up to one year without refund Depending on the severity, campers can be suspended at any time. For suspension or expulsion, the camper must be picked up within one hour. If suspension or expulsion occurs, no refund will be issued. BULLYING & HARASSMENT The City of Denton acknowledges that all individuals have the right to participate fully in City programmin& activities, and to use City facilities free from bullying and harassment. All allegations of bullying, harassment, or cyber-bullying can be reported to CIty staff in writing or by email. The City of Denton abldes by the AntbBullying and Anti-Harassment PolicY 510.Ol. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CUSTODY SITUATIONS From time to time, counselors are placed in custody dispute situations. Without a court order, City of Denton staff cannot deny a parent access to his or her chIld. Full custody or divorce decree documents stamped by the court with a section that states a parent cannot have access to a child, must be reviewed by the City’s legal department. Upon review, staff will notify the parent/guardian of any contact made by an unauthorized parent. Staff wIll not put themselves or children in harm’s way to mediate a family dispute or attempt to enforce a court order. WEAPONS Campers found with any object deemed dangerous to themselves or others will be immediately suspended from camp and the parent/guardian will be called and required to pick up them up immediately. The police will also be notified. REPOPrING ABUSE AND NEGLECr It is our responsibility to report child abuse or neglect to Child Protective Services. These calls are made anonymously. To report child abuse, call (800) 252-54tX). DFPS ChIld Care Licensing InformatIon 3600 E. McKinney St. Ste. B, Denton, TX, 76209 (940) 591-6272; www.dfps.state.tx.us Child Abuse Hotline (800) 252-5400 SOCIAL MEDIA AND PHOTO RELEASE Pictures are taken periodically of camp activities and shared on the Denton Parks and Rec Shutterfly page, so parents can enjoy pictures of camp. These pictures may also be used in marketing material and appear in publications such as the PLAYI Guide produced by the city in- house 14 NONDISCRIMINATORY POUCY The City of Denton Parks and RecreatIon Department welcomes and enoourages all individuals and families from the community to partIcipate in programs and facilities regardless of race, color, religIon, sex, national origIn, or disability. If you or someone you know has a disability and would like more information or support for accessibility of programs and facilities, please call (940) 349-7275. PAREMrAVGAURDIAN CONDUCT Parents/guardians are asked to address concerns respectfully with City staff and vice versa and to refrain from discussing discipline issues with others on-site. It is also unacceptable for parents/guardians to express hostility towards each other, counselors, and campers. Doing so will result in immediate suspension or removal from camp. Any form of verbal or physical threat made by a parent or guardian will be reported to police immediately. PAREMrAL NOTIFICATION/CHANGES These guidelines may be subject to change to better operate the program. All participants will be notified in writing of any changes made and the date that the changes will be in effect. Each parent will be required to sign for any changes made. FAQ FOR CAMPERS Does my camper need to wear a mask if they are under 10 years old? It is strongly encouraged that all campers wear masks when social dIstancing is not possible. We will follow all city, county, and state mandates. We will also follow mask rules of the establishment we are visiting, i.e. field trip locations like Main Event, HawaiIan Falls, etc. How does the office and camp staff communicate with parents? A weekly camp calendar of activities will be posted on www.dentoparks.com it wIll also be available for pIckup on the lst day of camp and emailed to the main contact of the family account the Friday night before camp starts. Many camps also use the Remind app. Please make sure all your contact information is correct in our Rec 1 registration software. Ask your Camp Supervisor for the Remind info for your camp. What should campers wear? Campers should wear loose fitting play clothes and light-colored clothes. No sandals or flip flops because they can potentially hinder particIpation. What should I send with my child? Campers not participating in the free lunch program need to bring a lunch and drink, preferably in an insulated lunch bag, unless told otherwise. All campers need to bring two snacks and a drink. We cannot refrigerate or microwave lunches or snacks. No glass or knives. Campers may bring extra spending money for snack machines, souvenirs, etc., but they are responsible for their own money. 15 What should I NOT send with my child? Please do not allow your child to bring toys, balls, games, pillows, or blankets. Bringing electronic devices such as iPads, cell phones, DVD players, etc. is at the parent/guardian discretion. The camper may be asked to put it away if sharing the device or viewing inappropriate material. The City of Denton is not responsible for any lost, broken, traded, borrowed, or stolen property. What should I do if my child feels nervous about the first day of camp? The first day of camp can be awkward, frightenin& and intimidating for many new campers. The first day may even make some parents nervous too, so please remember that the more nervous you are the more nervous and intimidated your child will be. If your child is hesitant to join the camp, be patient and have a counselor help you introduce them to other campers. What do you take in the vans and busses? We carry a list of all children being transported and leave one copy with Civic Center front desk staff. We store a form in the van that lists the names and phone numbers of the center and camp director. We carry a first aid kit, a five-gallon container of water with cups, and all parent and emergency contact information. A fire extinguisher, approved by the locat fire marshal, is secured in the van, along with a radio for communication. All vans receive regular maintenance and these records are available upon request. What should I do if my child is going to be absent? If your child is going to absent for the day, please call the appropriate camp phone number to let the staff know. What kind of behavior incentives are there? A camper’s good behavior will allow th wn to receive “dollars" to use towards items in the camp store. Each day that a camper exhibits positive behavior is recorded and at the end of each week the camper can use their money to buy items in the store. Store items include games, candy, books, etc. Parents can inform counselors if their camper is not in attendance at the end of the week, to receive special arrangements. Campers can bank their money if attending multiple camp sessions. What is the "Camper of the Week” award? Campers who exemplify a good attitude, participation, helpfulness, and other similar qualities are considered for the “Camper of the WeeK’ award. We award one boy and one girl each week. Awards are reviewed weekly and distributed every Friday. Campers of the Week are awarded a medal and summary of why they were selected. 16