OWL Camp Policies

OWL Anti-Bullying Policy

OWL Camp at Ohio Wesleyan University is committed to providing a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all campers. Harassment, intimidation, or bullying behavior—whether by other campers, staff, or third parties—is strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. All reports of bullying will be promptly investigated and addressed.

For the purposes of this policy, and in accordance with Ohio law, bullying, harassment, and/or intimidation (collectively, "bullying") means:

Any intentional written, verbal, electronic, or physical act that a camper or group of campers directs toward another camper or camp personnel with the intent to harass, intimidate, injure, threaten, ridicule, or humiliate. Bullying includes repeated behaviors or a single severe act that meets the following criteria:

• The behavior causes mental or physical harm to the targeted individual.
• The behavior is severe, persistent, or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, threatening, or abusive camp environment.

This policy applies to acts based on a camper's actual or perceived race, sex, sexual orientation, religion, color, national origin, age, gender identity or expression, ancestry, familial status, disability, or association with a person or group with one or more of these characteristics. Bullying is prohibited on camp premises, at any camp-sponsored activity, and on camp-provided transportation.

Cyberbullying

Bullying through electronic means—including social media, text messages, emails, or other digital platforms—is strictly prohibited, whether it occurs during or outside of camp hours.

Reporting and Response

If you witness or experience bullying, see something, say something. You may report concerns to any adult employee, including counselors, head counselors, instructors, office staff, or directors. Reports may be made:

• In person to a staff member.
• In writing using a camp-provided reporting form.
• Anonymously through a designated reporting method.

All reports will be taken seriously and investigated promptly. Consequences for bullying may include warnings, mediation, parental involvement, or removal from camp, depending on the severity of the behavior.

Creating a Culture of Respect

OWL Camp is dedicated to fostering a culture of kindness, inclusion, and mutual respect. All campers are expected to uphold these values and contribute to a positive camp experience for everyone.

---

OWL Cell Phone Policy for Residential Campers

In response to evolving perspectives on youth and technology use, our camp is revising its cell phone policy to allow limited use for Residential Campers. This adjustment aims to balance the benefits of periodic communication with family while preserving the immersive camp experience.

1. Policy Overview:  Residential Campers are permitted to bring cell phones to camp for the sole purpose of scheduled voice, video, or text communication with parents or guardians. To maintain the spirit of the camp environment, all other uses of cell phones—including social media, gaming, video streaming, taking photos or videos, etc.—are strongly discouraged.
2. Scheduled Phone Use Frequency: Campers will have the opportunity to call or text in the mornings before breakfast and in the evenings before bed.
3. Supervision:  Student phone sessions will be indirectly supervised by camp staff to encourage general adherence to the policy while allowing privacy in conversations with family.
4. Phone Accessibility/Sessions:  Devices may be checked out for the AM session (7:00–7:20 a.m.) or PM session (9:45–10:05 p.m.). Devices must be checked back in with the counselor at the end of each Phone Session. Please place a name sticker on the phone prior to arrival.
5. Secure Storage:  Devices will be stored in the counselors' locked rooms when not in use.
6. Emergency Communication:  In case of emergencies, parents or guardians are encouraged to contact the camp office directly. Camp staff will facilitate prompt communication between students and their families as needed.
7. Compliance and Enforcement:  Non-Compliance: Failure to follow this policy may result in the loss of phone privileges for the remainder of the camp session.
8. Parent and Student Acknowledgment:  Parents must sign to confirm that they have reviewed this cell phone policy with their camper and agree to its terms. This signature also indicates their understanding of and agreement to comply with the policy before the start of the camp session.
9. Liability for Lost or Damaged Devices:  While all reasonable precautions will be taken to ensure the security of personal devices, Ohio Wesleyan University (OWU) and OWL Camp are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged phones. By bringing a device to camp, parents and guardians acknowledge and agree that the camp will not be held liable for any loss or damage to the device during the camp session.

---

OWL Code of Conduct Policy

Introduction

All OWL Camp participants must conduct themselves according to the following standards of behavior. This Code of Conduct ensures the safety and well-being of all participants and applies to both campers and their parents/guardians.

Guiding Principles

1. OWL Camp respects the rights and dignity of all campers and staff, including individuals of diverse abilities, cultures, genders, races, and religions.

2. OWL Camp fosters an inclusive and welcoming environment where all participants are valued and supported.

Expectations & Essential Eligibility Criteria

All participants are expected to:

• Respect and adhere to camp rules, guidelines, and safety protocols.
• Act courteously and treat others with kindness and respect.
• Use appropriate language and behavior at all times.
• Follow all instructions given by camp staff.
• Avoid putting themselves or others in danger.
• Engage appropriately in group activities without disrupting the learning environment.
• Maintain personal hygiene with minimal assistance as appropriate for their developmental stage.
• Respect shared living spaces by minimizing noise, keeping personal belongings organized, and being considerate of others' sleep schedules.
• Follow all Ohio Wesleyan University policies and local, state, and federal laws.

Behavior Not Permitted

The following behaviors are strictly prohibited:

• Inappropriate Language – Use of profanity, slurs, or offensive speech.
• Theft, Vandalism, or Destruction of Property – Damaging or stealing personal, camp, or university property.
• Substance Use – Possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, tobacco, vaping products, or other prohibited substances.
• Weapons or Harmful Objects – Possession of firearms, knives, or other dangerous items.
• Bullying & Harassment – Physical, verbal, or cyberbullying; belittling, intimidation, or discrimination based on any personal characteristic.
• Aggressive or Violent Behavior – Fighting, hitting, threatening, or harming others.
• Leaving Camp Boundaries Without Permission – Exiting designated areas without staff approval.
• Unsupervised or Unauthorized Campus Activity – Wandering or being in unauthorized areas without staff supervision.
• Disruptive Behavior – Any action that significantly interferes with camp operations or the experience of other participants.
• Misuse of Technology – Unauthorized use of devices, cyberbullying, inappropriate online behavior, or unauthorized recording of others.
• Any Other Unsafe or Inappropriate Conduct – Any behavior that jeopardizes the safety, inclusivity, or integrity of the program, as determined by camp staff.

This list is not exhaustive. OWL Camp reserves the right to address any conduct deemed inappropriate. Program staff reserve the right to ask any participant to leave the program at any time.

Disciplinary Actions

Participants who violate this Code of Conduct may face disciplinary action, up to and including removal from the program without a refund. Consequences will be determined based on the severity of the behavior and may include:

Warning System for Minor Infractions:

• First Offense: Verbal warning and reflection discussion with a staff member.

• Second Offense: Temporary removal from an activity and a documented behavior discussion.

• Third Offense: Parent/guardian contact and a formal behavior agreement.

• Further Violations or Severe Infractions: Immediate removal from camp without refund and potential ineligibility for future participation.

Serious Infractions

Certain behaviors—such as violence, harassment, possession of prohibited substances or weapons, or actions that endanger others—may result in immediate dismissal from OWL Camp without following the stepwise warning system.

By attending OWL Camp, participants and their guardians acknowledge and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

---

Discipline Policy

Purpose & Philosophy

OWL Camp's discipline policy is designed to foster a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment while helping campers develop self-regulation, accountability, and positive social interactions. Our approach prioritizes clear expectations, fair consequences, and supportive guidance to ensure all campers have a positive experience.

Discipline Approach

• Camp staff establish clear, consistent, and developmentally appropriate expectations for behavior.
• When discipline is necessary, it will be proportionate, timely, and relevant to the specific action, focusing on teaching and reinforcement rather than punishment.
• Staff will strive to redirect negative behavior and help campers develop problem-solving skills.

Prohibited Forms of Discipline

OWL Camp staff will never use the following forms of discipline:

• Physical punishment – hitting, slapping, pushing, or any form of corporal punishment.
• Verbal abuse or humiliation – yelling, shaming, name-calling, or scare tactics.
• Deprivation of basic needs – withholding food, water, shelter, or rest.
• Extended isolation – placing a camper alone without supervision or in an unsafe setting.
• Punishment for involuntary behaviors – including bedwetting or sensory-related behaviors.

Chronic Disruptive Behavior

If a camper's behavior repeatedly disrupts the camp experience for themselves or others, even after reasonable interventions, staff will contact parents/guardians to develop a behavior support plan. Our goal is to work collaboratively to help the camper succeed. However, if disruptive behavior continues or escalates, the camper may be dismissed from the program.

Immediate Dismissal Offenses

The following behaviors may result in immediate dismissal from camp:

• Violence & Harm to Others – Physical, sexual, or verbal abuse; harassment or bullying.
• Leaving Camp Without Permission – Exiting camp/univeristy grounds without staff approval.
• Substance Use – Possession, use, or distribution of alcohol, illegal or recreational drugs, or vaping products (including e-cigarettes). OWL Camp has zero tolerance for substance use.
• Weapons & Dangerous Items – Possession of a weapon, including knives, firearms, or other dangerous objects.
• Destruction of Property – Vandalism (graffiti, intentional damage), misuse of fire extinguishers, or disruptive pranks that cause harm or damage.
• Privacy Violations – Entering another person's sleeping area without permission, disturbing someone while they are sleeping, or invading privacy in restrooms/showers.
• Self-Harm and Harmful Behaviors – Actions that put the camper or others at risk.
• Sexual Activity – Engaging in any sexual behavior, including intercourse, oral sex, or any activity for which the camp cannot take responsibility.

---

Health Management Policies

At OWL Camp, the health and safety of our campers and staff are our highest priority. We are committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where campers can build independence, learn new skills, and grow in confidence—all while under attentive supervision.

Our staff receives thorough training in camper supervision, safety protocols, and the use of safety equipment to help ensure a secure and enjoyable experience for all. The following resources and procedures are in place to promote the well-being of everyone in our camp community:

Health Services & Medical Care

• A registered nurse is on call 24 hours a day and is on-site at least once daily. For any health-related concerns, the nurse may be reached at owlnurse@owu.edu.
• Counselors are trained in safe medication distribution and are available at all times to assist campers with minor concerns, medication disbursement, and general care. For any situation requiring CPR or advanced first aid, care will be provided by the registered nurse or emergency medical professionals.
• All medications—including prescriptions, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and homeopathic remedies—must be stored with the camper's counselor and administered by the counselor under the supervision and direction of the camp nurse.
• In the event of illness or medical emergency requiring further assistance, appropriate EMS procedures will be followed. The nearest hospital, Grady Memorial Hospital, is located approximately 1.5 miles from camp, with emergency rescue squad transportation available if needed.
• A Health History and Medication Form must be completed by a parent or guardian prior to a camper's arrival. All medical records and health histories are kept confidential.

Communication with Parents

• The camp nurse oversees all camper health care and medication management.
• Parents will not be contacted for minor first aid, such as splinter removal, small cuts, or dry skin ointment application.
  
  

Reminders for Families

• Submit completed health and medication forms before camp begins.
• All medications should be given to your camper's counselor at check-in.
• Health-related communication will be handled with care and focus on significant matters that affect your camper's well-being.

---

OWL Camp Refund Policy

This refund policy applies exclusively to OWL Camp at Ohio Wesleyan University.

OWL Camp is committed to providing a high-quality experience for all participants. Program planning requires us to sign contracts with staff and make purchases based on confirmed camper acceptances. As such, cancellations made after key deadlines can impact our ability to deliver a successful camp experience.

Refund requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis and must be submitted in writing via email to owl@owu.edu.

Residential Camp Refunds

• Requests received on or before May 1 – A full refund of all payments may be issued.
• Requests received after May 1 – A $250 cancellation fee will be deducted; the remaining balance may be refunded.
• Final deadline: Residential Camp refund requests must be submitted by July 3. Requests received after this date will not be considered.

Day Camp Refunds

• Requests received on or before June 15 – A full refund of all payments may be issued.
• Requests received after June 15 – A $100 cancellation fee will be deducted; the remaining balance may be refunded.
• Final deadline: Day Camp refund requests must be submitted by July 17. Requests received after this date will not be considered.

Additional Information

• Refunds are issued only to the original payer.
• Camp fees cannot be rolled over to future sessions.
• No refunds will be issued if a camper is withdrawn due to behavior-related concerns.

---

OWL Camp Rules and Regulations 

To ensure a safe, respectful, and enriching experience for all OWL Campers, the following guidelines must be observed. Noncompliance may result in immediate dismissal from camp without a refund.

• Participation in Activities
  Campers are expected to attend and fully engage in all scheduled classes and activities. Absences are not allowed except for verified medical emergencies.
  
  
• Prohibited Items and Medication Protocols
  The possession or use of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, firearms, knives, or any other dangerous items is strictly forbidden. All medications—whether prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, or homeopathic—must be turned in at check-in, stored with the assigned counselor, and administered only under the supervision of the camp nurse.
  
  
• Housing and Campus Access
  For the safety of everyone, dormitory living areas are segregated by gender. Campers must remain in their assigned living spaces and are not permitted to enter dormitories of the opposite gender. Additionally, campers cannot leave university property or ride in vehicles unless accompanied by OWL Camp staff or designated office personnel.
  
  
• Money and Personal Belongings
  Campers should leave cash and valuables at home, as OWL Camp is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. While personal electronic devices are generally prohibited, residential campers may bring a cell phone under the conditions set forth in our cell phone use policy. Non-cellphone cameras are allowed if they are clearly labeled with the camper's name.
  
  
• Access to University Facilities
  Campers may only use the university facilities that have been scheduled and approved by the OWL Program. As guests of Ohio Wesleyan University, campers are expected to treat campus property with respect. Any damage to property may result in dismissal from camp, with parents or guardians held financially responsible for repair costs.
  
  
• Food and Hydration
  For residential campers, all meals are provided on campus. Day camp participants must bring a packed lunch each day. Residential campers may also bring snacks and drinks to keep in their designated areas. Responsibility for personal food items remains with the camper.
  
  
• Supervision and Interaction
  Counselors are responsible for knowing the whereabouts of each camper at all times. Campers must inform their counselor before moving about the campus. OWL Camp is designed to foster interaction among participants, so campers are expected to engage primarily with fellow OWL Camp members.
  
  
• Cell Phone Use
  Campers may bring a cell phone for limited use. For full details regarding usage times, supervision, storage, and consequences for misuse, please refer to the OWL Camp Cell Phone Policy. Parents are required to review and sign the acknowledgment form prior to camp.
  
  
• Refund Procedures
  Refunds are processed according to the OWL Camp Refund Policy. Please review that policy for detailed information regarding deadlines, fees, and submission requirements. No refunds will be issued if a camper is withdrawn due to behavior-related concerns. Camp fees cannot be carried over to future sessions.
  
  
• Expected Behavior and Conduct
  Campers must conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on both OWL Camp and Ohio Wesleyan University. Any behavior that disrupts the camp community or violates these rules may result in immediate dismissal. If a camper is withdrawn due to behavioral issues, the refund will be processed as outlined in the Refund Policy.
  
  
• Roommate Assignments
  Campers will be assigned roommates and cannot request specific individuals. This policy is intended to encourage new friendships and promote social interactions among a diverse group of peers.
  
  
• Dorm Room Privacy
  Campers are expected to respect the privacy of others by not entering anyone else's room, whether it belongs to another camper or a counselor. These rooms are private spaces meant for the assigned occupants only.