Protection of Minors

Georgia College & State University offers a variety of athletic camps, science camps, clinics, after-school programs, enrichment classes, group tutoring, test preparation courses, and activities which bring non-student minors onto campus. These programs and activities are of great educational value and serve to benefit both the institution and the larger community. These programs and activities provide Georgia College with the opportunity to challenge, educate, and mentor young people and to introduce them to our campus in a positive and meaningful way.

Mandatory Reporting

If you know, suspect, or receive information indicating a minor has been abused or neglected, or if you have other concerns about the safety of a minor, immediately notify the Georgia College Department of Public Safety at (478) 445-4400.

Abuse

Abuse is the physical, sexual, or emotional harm or risk of harm to a child under the age of 18 caused by a parent, guardian, or other person who acts a caregiver for the child.

Neglect

Neglect occurs when a parent or caregiver fails to provide proper supervision for a child or adequate food, clothing, shelter, education, or medical care although financially able or assisted to do so.


 

University Procedures and Forms

The safety and well-being of these visitors to our campuses is of the highest concern. Georgia College has a written policy and procedures to ensure we remain committed to best practices that provide a safe and healthy environment for all who participate, volunteer, or work in these activities.

As a parent, you can expect to see a variety of forms when registering your child for an authorized program at Georgia College.  Samples of these forms include:

  • Registration Form
  • Waivers of Liability (including a Photo and Media Release)
  • Authorization for Child Pick-up
  • Health Questionnaire (including a Consent to Administer Medicine)
  • Advisement of a Non Licensed Program
  • Participant Code of Conduct

Background Checks

All program staff and volunteers who work closely with minors must successfully pass a thorough background screening. See the USG's Background Investigation document for more information.

External Programs Operating on Campus

Non-University organizations who operate programs or activities involving minors at Georgia College must ensure their programs are run consistent with our guidelines. These external groups are expected to sign agreements with the campus assuring such procedures are followed.

View a Sample Agreement

Campus Contact

Stephanie Westmoreland serves as Georgia College's Coordinator for the Protection of Minors on Campus.  If you have questions or concerns, please contact Stephanie Westmoreland at (478) 445-1238 or by email at stephanie.westmoreland@gcsu.edu

Georgia College Faculty and Staff Resources

Georgia College hosts a Protection of Minors password protected website, using campus credentials, that provides a step-by-step guide and addresses in detail all of the requirements for programs working with children.  This website was created to ensure we remain in compliance with our written policy and procedures.  But, more importantly, our website exists to help ensure the safety and well being of our visitors, our employees, and our volunteers.