Below is a list of key definitions to assist individuals in their work with minors.
- minor: an individual under the age of 18; does not apply to individuals who are full time enrolled students of the University or have accepted the University’s offer of admission.
- program: any organized event or activity that includes participants who are minors offered by an academic or administrative unit of the University or recognized student organization whether on University-owned property, using University owned or managed facilities, or under the exclusive authority and direction of the University in other locations. Programs also include events or activities offered online, or by non-University organizations using campus facilities. Programs include, but are not limited to:
- academic programs, coursework, or camps (both credit and noncredit)
- athletic camps or clinics
- skill-based or enrichment camps and programs
- internships (paid or unpaid), research or shadowing experiences
- tutoring or mentorship programs
- school field trips or visits
- events not open to the general public (either one time or reoccurring)
- program administrator: an individual aged 18 or older, designated as the primary contact for the program and is responsible for program administration and ensuring compliance with Youth Protection Policy. Must be a WashU affiliated individual (student, staff, or faculty). Also serves as primary point of contact for third-party or external organization sponsored programs.
- program staff: an individual aged 18 or older who works, paid or unpaid, in a program where the individual may have one-on-one contact with a minor or contact with a group of minors, in a non-public setting without a parent, legal guardian, or school/organization chaperone present.
- emergency contact: an individual aged 18 or older responsible for directly overseeing minors in their activities and responding to emergency situations.
- third-party/external organization: programs sponsored by non-University organization held on University property.
- parent or legal guardian: a biological or adoptive parent, guardian, or legal custodian with legal authority to make decisions on behalf of the child regarding healthcare and public benefits.
- school/organization chaperone: an individual aged 18 years or older designated by the elementary, middle, or high school the minor(s) attend or organization the minor(s) participate. This individual is responsible for supervising the minor(s) and permission forms have been received by the school/organization signed by the parent/legal guardian granting permission for this individual to supervisor minor(s).
- non-public settings: University facilities not generally open to the public, including but not limited to: classrooms; laboratories; research areas; gymnasia; physical education or intercollegiate athletic exercise areas; faculty, administrative staff, or student offices; conference rooms; seminar rooms; lounges; storage areas; parking facilities; residence halls, or other similar areas restricted to University faculty, staff or students.