We're glad that you’ve chosen to spend some memorable moments with us this summer. We have planned for this summer throughout the entire year and we have hired role models for your children who will help build character, positive experiences and memories that will last a lifetime.
Although exceptional talent is always welcomed and acknowledged, the key to success in the program is open-minded and energetic participation. Instructors expect to work with students of all levels of ability and experience in a nurturing atmosphere that stresses strong educational and personal values along with outstanding achievement. Whether you are new to Youth Theatre or a seasoned Youth Theatre student, we are pleased to welcome you to our summer program.
This handbook is designed to prepare and assist you with sending your child to summer sessions. It contains the most up-to-date health & safety policies for our summer program ahead. All recommendations are based upon the guidelines from the University of Utah and developed further through discussions with peer theatre camp providers across the United States. This list is not comprehensive and may be adjusted at any time based on new recommendations from the University and the State of Utah. Please review this handbook carefully and review the YTU rules and guidelines with your child.
- All Youth Theatre Lead Teachers have degrees in theatre performance or theatre education. Many are middle school and high school teachers in local school districts.
- Our Teaching Assistants are students in the Department of Theatre who are studying theatre teaching, stage management, and/or performance.
- All Youth Theatre staff and faculty members have background checks that are renewed every three years.
- All Youth Theatre staff and faculty members have a Youth Protection training to make sure they understand the Safety of Minors policy.
- Our program goes above the minimum requirements to make sure we provide a safe environment for all youth participating in our program.
The University of Utah is committed to providing for the safety and protection of all youth that participate in University programs or programs operating on University premises. This commitment lead to the creation of University Policy 1-015 Safety of Minors and the establishment of Youth Protection and Program Support, whose primary goal is providing for the safety and protection of youth participating in University programs. YPPS supports the policy by providing guidance and training to all staff, faculty, students, and volunteers working with youth.
We have four simple rules: Be kind. Be respectful. Be responsible. Be brave.
- We use positive guidance techniques in managing behavior. This includes: stating limits positively, giving choices, redirection, using distraction.
- Children will be removed from their group or class if they are hurting themselves or others, or if they indicate that they would benefit from a break from the group.
- Any behavior that interferes with the SAFETY, LEARNING or ENJOYMENT of other attendees will not be tolerated. If there is a discipline problem with your child, you will be notified.
- In the event that behavioral difficulties are deemed irreconcilable, a child may be removed from the summer program. Any refunds will be determined by YTU.
Youth Theatre at the U has a “Zero Tolerance” policy for the possession of alcohol, cigarettes, vapes, drugs and weapons. Possession of these substances/items on the University of Utah campus is strictly prohibited. If a student is caught in possession of any of these items, or comes to class under the influence of an illegal substance, the student’s parents will be called immediately and the student will not be able to complete the session.
