Behavior Policy

What is the Petra Cliffs Five-Finger Contract?

Thumb: Be Positive & Encourage Others!

Pinky Finger: Safety, safety, safety! In order to have successful programs, it is necessary for us to make sure that even our youngest participants are being as safe as possible.

Pointer Finger: Communication is a two-way street. Be sure to listen carefully to instructions, and make sure to let staff know when you need help while at camp!

Middle Finger: Our middle finger is a symbol of all the stuff we want to keep out of camp! Physical violence, inappropriate language, discrimination and bullying of any kind will not be tolerated during Petra Cliffs youth programs.

Ring Finger: Our ring fingers are symbolic of our commitment to challenge ourselves at camp. We subscribe to Challenge by Choice, and encourage all campers and staff to seek out opportunities for growth and learning!

Our programs are designed to encourage folks to stretch themselves just that much farther while minimizing risk through careful planning, training (for staff and campers), leadership, responsibility, and good judgment. At times, It can be difficult to work through scenarios in which perceived risk is high. By following  “Challenge by Choice” philosophy, we provide participants multiple ways to challenge themselves. By creating opportunities for participants to work through tough feelings, learn new skills, and find the challenge that feels right for them, our staff members help everyone build confidence and feel the many benefits of experiential education!

Program Readiness Skills

1. Participants must be willing and able to spend the entirety of the day outside including during rain (severe weather conditions will result in moving programming indoors). See our weather policy here.

2. Participants must be able to participate independently, or with reasonable accommodations/modifications that do not conflict with the program structure. Please reach out to camp management prior to your camp session if you are unsure!

3. Participants must be able to respect the public land and facilities that we use during our programming. This includes following the Leave No Trace Principles which apply to their camp session.

4. Participants must be able to take and follow directions and instructions from staff and activity specialists.

5. Participants must interact and participate with an awareness for physically and emotionally safety for themselves and others.

6. Participants must be able to advocate for personal care.

7. Participants must respect others (listening and following directions; using appropriate language; keeping hands and feet to self).

8. Participants must maintain self-control (anger management).

Other Important Guidelines

a. No electronics are permitted during programming, including cell phones, iPods, video games, digital cameras, etc.

b. No destruction of wildlife.

c. The climbing of trees or other structures is not permitted unless part of the program curriculum with proper safety precautions in place.

d. Gentle language: Any language that is offensive or hateful takes away from the positive learning environment. This includes using identity affirming language, such as using participants’ correct pronouns, to the greatest extent possible.

Grounds For Dismissal

Petra Cliffs management reserves the right to ask that any camper discontinue participation in our programs due to behavior. A participant’s inability to follow the following rules will result in conversation(s) with parents/guardians, and possibly dismissal from camp without refund:

1. Theft: Blatant, unequivocal theft will not be tolerated.
    
2. Severe Threat of Bodily Harm and Property: Violence towards staff or other participants will not be tolerated, including hard hitting, biting, spitting, kicking. No weapons of any kind will be permitted. Participants are not allowed to have knives. Participants must not run out of sight of the guides, or leave the program location. Destruction of Petra Cliffs property and equipment will not be tolerated.
    
3. Drugs, Alcohol and Tobacco: Drug, alcohol, tobacco, and E-cigarette use is not permitted during youth programs, and is grounds for immediate dismissal from programming.
    
4. Sexual Behavior: Sexual activity, sexual language, and sexual harassment will not be tolerated.
    
5. Emotional Safety: Petra Cliffs has a zero-tolerance policy on bullying and harassment. We value the emotional safety of our entire community. We promote a culture of inclusion by using kind and affirming language, and practice acceptance of all individuals. Bullying or harassment of any kind are not permitted. This includes derogatory comments or making fun of the individual/individual’s family, national origin, religion, sexuality, ethnicity, disabilities, sexual orientation, gender-identity, gender expression, or appearance. Any severe violation of emotional safety is grounds for immediate dismissal. No verbal threats or intolerance of others’ differences will be tolerated.