AV S.T.E.A.M. League Child Protective Policy

Protecting Our Students. Supporting Our Mentors. Strengthening Our Community.

Purpose

The AV S.T.E.A.M. League is committed to maintaining a safe, supportive, and respectful environment for all youth participants. Every student deserves to learn, build, and explore in an environment free from harm, intimidation, or abuse of any kind.

This Child Protective Policy establishes the standards and responsibilities required of all mentors, teachers, staff, and volunteers. It ensures compliance with California Assembly Bill 506 (AB 506) and reinforces our commitment to child safety, accountability, and transparency.

1. Mandatory Two-Deep Supervision Policy

  • At no time may a single adult be alone with a participant under the age of 18.
  • A minimum of two approved adult mentors or staff members must be present during all League activities, workshops, events, or transportation involving minors.
  • Both adults must be mandated reporters who have completed the AV S.T.E.A.M. League’s screening, training, and agreement process.
  • If one adult must step away temporarily (e.g., restroom, material retrieval, emergency), another cleared adult must immediately assume supervisory coverage.
  • No private one-on-one communication (in person, by phone, text, or social media) is permitted between any adult mentor and a student unless another mentor or parent is included or copied in the communication.

2. Screening, Training, and Compliance

All adults who serve in any capacity with students (including mentors, coaches, volunteers, staff, or technical assistants) must:

  • Complete a background check and clearance prior to engagement.
  • Complete AB 506 Mandated Reporter Training and provide proof of completion.
  • Sign the AV S.T.E.A.M. League Child Protective Policy and Conduct Agreement.
  • Acknowledge and comply with all two-deep supervision protocols at all times.
  • Report any unsafe conditions, policy violations, or suspected misconduct immediately.

3. Reporting Suspected Abuse or Misconduct

Every adult mentor, educator, or staff member is a mandated reporter under California law.
If any adult suspects or observes any form of child abuse, neglect, or inappropriate behavior, they are required to:

  1. Ensure the child’s immediate safety.
  2. Notify League leadership immediately.
  3. File a report directly with Child Protective Services (CPS) or local law enforcement as required by state law.

No individual may discourage or interfere with a mandated report. Failure to report suspected abuse is both a violation of this policy and a potential violation of California law.

4. Code of Conduct for Adults Working with Minors

All AV S.T.E.A.M. League adults agree to:

  • Maintain professional and appropriate boundaries with all students.
  • Refrain from physical contact except when appropriate for safety or instruction and only in observable, public settings.
  • Avoid all private meetings, personal invitations, or off-site interactions with minors unless pre-approved and supervised.
  • Use respectful and positive language at all times.
  • Report any conduct concerns regarding another adult to League leadership immediately.

5. AB 506 Compliance Statement

The AV S.T.E.A.M. League complies fully with the requirements of California AB 506, which mandates that:

  • All administrators, employees, and regular volunteers complete mandated reporter training.
  • The organization adopts and enforces policies and procedures to prevent abuse.
  • All adults working directly with minors are fingerprinted and background checked through the Department of Justice and FBI.

Our commitment to AB 506 is more than compliance — it is a core part of our mission to protect and empower every child we serve.

6. Acknowledgment and Agreement

By signing below, I acknowledge that I have read, understood, and agree to abide by the AV S.T.E.A.M. League Child Protective Policy.
I agree to follow the two-deep supervision rule at all times, comply with AB 506, and act as a responsible mandated reporter in all interactions with minors.
I understand that failure to follow this policy may result in immediate dismissal and, if warranted, legal action.

Name: ___________________________________
Role/Title: _______________________________
Signature: _______________________________
Date: ______________________