Cabin Leader Agreement

Program Overview:

First, we’d like to thank you for taking on this important commitment - we greatly appreciate your support of the student experience at Sly Park. At Sly Park, we do all we can to make it a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students AND adults. This starts with making certain that everyone understands the expectations.

Sly Park Outdoor Environmental Education Center provides a safe, educational, and immersive outdoor learning experience for students. Adult chaperones play a critical role in supporting the program, maintaining safety, and helping students enjoy and benefit from this unique environment.

Please know that you will participate in a Cabin Leader orientation on arrival day, which will further clarify expectations and explain how the program works here at Sly Park.

For a host of reasons, not the least of which is fewer disciplinary issues, Sly Park very intentionally “mixes” cabins with students from other schools. The mixing of student cabins is core to the Sly Park program.

Cabin Leader Responsibilities and Expectations:

As a Cabin Leader, you agree to fulfill the following responsibilities during your time at Sly Park Outdoor Environmental Education Center:

1. Supervision and Safety

Constant Supervision: Ensure that all assigned students are safe, accounted for, and supervised at all times.
Emergency Procedures: Be familiar with emergency procedures and participate in safety drills as instructed by Sly Park staff.
Behavior Management: At all times, please be FIRM, FAIR, AND CONSISTENT in your enforcement of ALL of the school rules. Report any significant behavioral issues to Visiting Teachers and/or Sly Park staff.

2. Behavior and Conduct

Role Model: Exhibit positive behavior, language, and attitude, and be a role model for students at all times.
Respect for Nature: Follow Leave-No-Trace principles to preserve the natural environment.
No Alcohol or Substance Use: Refrain from the use of alcohol, drugs, or tobacco products while on site.
Respectful Interaction: Treat students, other Cabin Leaders, and staff with respect, patience, and consideration. Every adult is here to improve the student experience.

3. Participation in Activities

Engage in Activities: Participate actively in Sly Park activities, hikes, and group activities to support students and to foster group cohesion.
Encourage Student Involvement: Help facilitate student engagement by encouraging participation and supporting their learning experience.
Assist Teachers: Provide assistance to the Sly Park teachers and program staff as needed, including helping with setup and cleanup of activities.
Use of Cell Phone: Adults have permission to have and use cell phones while on campus. Please refrain from cell phone use while students are present.

4. Communication and Teamwork

Maintain Communication: Please work closely with and frequently communicate any needs/concerns with the Visiting Teachers and with Sly Park teachers.
Collaborate with Other Cabin Leaders: Work closely with other Cabin Leaders and Sly Park staff to ensure a safe, effective, and enjoyable experience for all.
Report Incidents: Immediately report any injuries, incidents, or unsafe conditions to Sly Park staff.

5. Confidentiality and Privacy

Respect Student Privacy: Do not take unauthorized photographs of students, nor post about students on social media without proper consent.
Confidentiality: Keep any personal or sensitive information about students, parents, or staff confidential.