Training

Program Administrators and Staff involved in University-Sponsored or -Affiliated and in non-University-Run Programs involving Minors must participate in an annual training on policies and issues relevant to the Protection of Minors consistent with UNC Asheville’s requirements. This required training must occur prior to any direct contact or virtual contact with minors.

The required training includes, at a minimum, the following topics:

• The University’s Policy on the Protection of Minors;
• Appropriate conduct when interacting with, or in the presence of, minors;
• Prevention of child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect;
• Recognition of the signs of child abuse, maltreatment, and neglect;
• Strategies to recognize, prevent, and address peer-on-peer abuse and bullying; and
• Mandated reporter obligations, including reporting requirements and procedures, according to NC state law and University policies and procedures

For University-Sponsored or Affiliated Programs or Activities.

The Office for Institutional Integrity and Access (OIIA) provides the required “Protection of Minors on Campus: How we promote the safety and well-being of youth at UNC Asheville” training in-person throughout the year and by request.

All Program Staff must participate in the required youth protection training prior to the start date of the program and directly working with minors. Please contact the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor (hlindkvi@unca.edu) to schedule a group training for staff involved in your program or activity. Training sessions are tailored to specific programs, such as sports camps, academic programs, or community-engaged learning projects.

For Non-University-Run Programs or Activities.

All non-University organizations must provide annual training to Program Staff consistent with the University’s requirements and include the topics noted above. The non-University organization must submit certification that all Program Staff have completed an annual training on the Protection of Minors by completing and submitting the “Youth Protection Training Certification” form to the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor (hlindkvi@unca.edu). The Program Director receives the training certification form from the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor after a Program or Activity has been registered and approved.

All non-University Program Staff must meet with the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor prior to the arrival of youth to campus. Program Administrators must schedule this required meeting with the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor as soon as the Program has been approved. This brief meeting often takes place during on-site Staff Orientation.

This introductory session provides an opportunity for all Program Staff to meet the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor and learn about UNC Asheville resources, review NC State-mandated reporting requirements, discuss reporting obligations under UNC Asheville Protection of Minors on Campus policy and reporting mechanisms at the University, and identify potential risk areas on campus.

Non-University organizations must maintain appropriate documentation of background screenings and training for all staff, such as certificates or training logs. During a program audit, the OIIA Assistant Vice Chancellor or their designee may review these materials.