Minors on Campus Policy & Programs

Although the University of New Mexico is committed to the safety of all members of its community, the University has particular concern for potentially vulnerable populations, such as minors, who may require special attention and protection. University Administrative Policy 2205 establishes general standards for minors participating in University programs and for minors visiting University workplaces and classrooms. Individual units of the University may develop more stringent standards to address their particular needs, including ethical standards and codes of conduct. In order to ensure that all UNM units involved with programs for minors are aware of and comply with this policy, the Office of the University President asks units, as applicable, to complete a yearly compliance certification.

Reports of Known or Suspected Abuse or Neglect of Minors

Every member of the University community has an obligation under New Mexico law to report any instances or suspected instances of the abuse or neglect of a minor. Anyone who knows, suspects, or receives information indicating that a minor has been abused or neglected, or who has other concerns about the safety of minors, must report the matter immediately to a local law enforcement agency, UNM Police, or the State of New Mexico Children, Youth and Families Department at 1-855-333-SAFE (7233), or a tribal law enforcement or social services agency for any Indian child residing in Indian country.

Program leaders must take immediate steps to prevent further harm to the alleged victim or other minors, including, where appropriate, removing the alleged abuser from the program or activity or limiting his or her contact with minors pending resolution of the matter.

Program Leader Responsibilities

Beginning January 27, 2025, all UNM youth programs (unless otherwise excepted), must facilitate registrations through the UNM Youth Camps & Program website: LoboYouth.com. Please contact CEEO to discuss the minors on campus checklist and how to set up your registration site.

Program leaders must obtain from each minor's parent or guardian a signed copy of the:

Alternatively, program leaders may ask their Dean or Director to obtain from each minor's parent or guardian a signed copy of other similar forms that have been reviewed by Office of University Counsel.

Required forms can be completed through the LoboYouth registration site for your program.

Program leaders must obtain background checks for themselves and all Authorized Adults in the University Program.

UNM hosted or sponsored programs can use the UNM HR Department Background Check Request Form for their Authorized Adults. All other programs must use a substantially similar background check. You may contact Human Resources for more information on background checks.

Training

Program leaders should identify authorized adults who must complete appropriate training. Training is offered to employees through Learning Central.

EOD 486: Minors on Campus

The same training can be offered to other authorized adults who are not employees through the following link:

Child Abuse and Neglect, Minors on Campus Training

If you would like to schedule a live training, you may request using the CEEO Training Request Form.

Minors on Campus Program Checklist

Provided below is the UNM Minors on Program Checklist that will assist in planning a UNM Minors on Campus program that meets the requirements in Policy 2205.

UNM Minors on Campus Program Checklist

Tips for Online Minors Programs

Make sure your online format is ADA accessible.
Understand the resources of your campers, by surveying your participants (do they have webcams, laptops, printers, etc.).
Review your learning objectives and determine if  they might change with an online format.
Think about your formats (do more than just video).
Think about the differences in your online program management vs. the in-person program management.
If allowing private chatting amongst the participants, make sure you have two adults present in the chats.
Think about how you will virtually have parents and participants access online forms.
What kind of photo protections are needed?
Background checks are still needed for those hosting the program.
If you send your participants to online content, make sure you are aware of whom may be advertising on these sites.
This is an opportunity to assist students in being a good digital citizen.
There may be laws that are applicable, such as COPPA, CIPA, FERPA, etc.

Frequently Asked Questions

Annual Compliance Certifications

All applicable units must certify to CEEO that they are in compliance with UAP 2205, which includes:

Receipt of necessary signed waivers and releases;

Proper ratios of staff to minor program participants;

Completion of appropriate training for authorized adults and program leaders; and

Criminal background checks for authorized adults and program leaders.

Please contact CEEO for the most current certification form.

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