STAFF HANDBOOK - SUMMER 2023
Welcome - Read this first!
Dear North Star Staff,
It's difficult to cover every aspect of camp life and every staff member's responsibility in an Employee Handbook. This is the online version that covers that major parts of the Employee Handbook. At the start of staff training at camp you will be given a binder with the full version. This version will be a resource that you can refer back to, and give you the fundamental ingredients for a safe, healthy, and fun-filled summer.
Camp North Star is on a 55-acre property in Poland Spring Maine, on the shores of Worthley Pond, a private lake we enjoy all summer. There have been summer camps running on this property since 1927. Many different types of camps under different names have been running on the property since that time. Camp North Star got its current name in 2008. There are campers on property for 7 weeks each summer. Those 7 weeks are divided into 3 sessions, and campers from ages 7 to 17 come back summer after summer to stay for any combination of those sessions.
As a counselor, you are our campers’ caretakers, mentors, role models, and surrogate parents for the summer. Their families are entrusting not only us, but you too, with their most valued treasure, their child. You are responsible for the campers’ health and safety, both physical and emotional. To this end, there are many systems in place to ensure that both you and they are protected during their stay.
You are the ones closest to the campers, and you are the ones who will give them the opportunity to learn, grow, have fun, and develop new skills. As their role model, you must be willing to follow the rules, as well as enforce them. These children look to you for leadership, friendship, guidance, and support. Your example and actions will have a huge impact on the children whose lives you impact every day.
You are the key to each camper’s success at camp. Your efforts are noticed. You make a difference in the lives of our campers. We look forward to working with you in reaching our goal of making this summer the best summer possible. There are many of us who wish for just a few more days under the pines at the end of each summer. So let’s make every day count!
Warmest regards,
Brooke and Steven
It's difficult to cover every aspect of camp life and every staff member's responsibility in an Employee Handbook. This is the online version that covers that major parts of the Employee Handbook. At the start of staff training at camp you will be given a binder with the full version. This version will be a resource that you can refer back to, and give you the fundamental ingredients for a safe, healthy, and fun-filled summer.
Camp North Star is on a 55-acre property in Poland Spring Maine, on the shores of Worthley Pond, a private lake we enjoy all summer. There have been summer camps running on this property since 1927. Many different types of camps under different names have been running on the property since that time. Camp North Star got its current name in 2008. There are campers on property for 7 weeks each summer. Those 7 weeks are divided into 3 sessions, and campers from ages 7 to 17 come back summer after summer to stay for any combination of those sessions.
As a counselor, you are our campers’ caretakers, mentors, role models, and surrogate parents for the summer. Their families are entrusting not only us, but you too, with their most valued treasure, their child. You are responsible for the campers’ health and safety, both physical and emotional. To this end, there are many systems in place to ensure that both you and they are protected during their stay.
You are the ones closest to the campers, and you are the ones who will give them the opportunity to learn, grow, have fun, and develop new skills. As their role model, you must be willing to follow the rules, as well as enforce them. These children look to you for leadership, friendship, guidance, and support. Your example and actions will have a huge impact on the children whose lives you impact every day.
You are the key to each camper’s success at camp. Your efforts are noticed. You make a difference in the lives of our campers. We look forward to working with you in reaching our goal of making this summer the best summer possible. There are many of us who wish for just a few more days under the pines at the end of each summer. So let’s make every day count!
Warmest regards,
Brooke and Steven
What are Camp North Star’s Goals?
Camp North Star’s goal is to encourage each of our campers to discover and develop into the best version of themselves. We are committed to instilling positive values that are modeled and learned in a nurturing camp environment. Enthusiastic, talented, and skilled staff members facilitate the development of friendships, essential living skills, and strengthen campers' self-confidence and self-esteem.
What are the RICHS?
Camp North Star believes in following a strong value system in its daily operations. Five values known as RICHS are woven into the camp’s program and philosophy, and are the foundation for all our interactions within the greater camp community.
Respect - to value yourself, others, and the community at large. To be thoughtful in your actions and interactions with others.
Independence - to discover yourself and to celebrate whoever that may be. To try new things, make new friends, and seek new experiences. To take the road less traveled.
Caring - to be thoughtful, kind, considerate, and interested in the well-being of those you come in contact with each day. To provide a welcoming and helpful environment to all that you interact with at camp. To openly share your heart and your friendship with others.
Honor - doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Being a leader. Showing strong character and principles. Being someone who challenges each of us to be a better person by sharing their sense of self with us.
Spirit - embracing the values and community of camp and life. Celebrating yourself, others, and the camp experience in your own unique way that is contagious to the camp community.
Respect - to value yourself, others, and the community at large. To be thoughtful in your actions and interactions with others.
Independence - to discover yourself and to celebrate whoever that may be. To try new things, make new friends, and seek new experiences. To take the road less traveled.
Caring - to be thoughtful, kind, considerate, and interested in the well-being of those you come in contact with each day. To provide a welcoming and helpful environment to all that you interact with at camp. To openly share your heart and your friendship with others.
Honor - doing the right thing because it is the right thing to do. Being a leader. Showing strong character and principles. Being someone who challenges each of us to be a better person by sharing their sense of self with us.
Spirit - embracing the values and community of camp and life. Celebrating yourself, others, and the camp experience in your own unique way that is contagious to the camp community.
What is the Job of a Staff Member?
To supervise, manage, and care for each camper. To provide a safe, caring, and friendly environment for all campers, and encourage their personal growth, development, and participation in camp programs. The staff has dual roles of cabin counselors and programming staff. Cabin counselors are the parental figures for the campers who are in your cabin. Your job is to take care of other people’s children. That is a huge responsibility. Program staff teach/coach/instruct or assist campers in one of our program departments - athletics, arts, outdoors, and waterfront.
Cabin Counselor Responsibilities:
• Assume responsibility for the safety and welfare of all campers in their cabin, and follow emergency procedures when necessary, as described in the Staff Handbook.
• Care for each camper, and encourage their personal growth and development.
• Participate in and attend all camp functions (i.e. staff training, etc.).
• Act in accordance with the Camp North Star mission, philosophy, policies, and procedures as stated in the Staff Handbook.
• Actively supervise campers during cabin activities, meal times, free time, downtime, evening programs, and special events.
• Admit mistakes when you make them so that your campers can see that it is all right to try, to fail, and to try again.
• Be positive. Our staff members have an enormous influence on the attitude in camp. We’re here to help each other. By approaching things with a positive outlook and growth mindset, you’ll have more fun and so will your campers.
Program Staff Responsibilities:
• Teach in a specialized activity area(s) - arts, athletics, outdoors, and waterfront.
• Implement the specified lesson plans as assigned by their department head.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, care for equipment and supplies, and make sure they are stored correctly.
• Promote positive values in campers through the use of effective group work techniques.
All Staff Responsibilities:
• Never take personal problems or complaints to the campers. Problems or complaints should be resolved with the specific individual involved. Additionally, staff should always go up the line to their direct supervisor or to the Director until the issue is successfully resolved.
• Allow campers to have fun, to be kids, and yet help them see the effect of their choices on others.
Supervision:
Camp North Star staff members are responsible for the safety and supervision of each and every camper in our charge. It is our philosophy and practice to put each child’s welfare, care, and growth as our number one priority in all that we do at camp. Our intentions and actions are expected to be consistent with this philosophy and practice.
The health, safety, and general welfare of the campers are paramount. Staff is expected to be with their campers at all times except during assigned time off. Staff is responsible for supervising the cleanliness and general health of their campers. Staff members act as important role models in influencing camper behavior. Different skills, tones, and interactions are needed when interacting with different age groups and ability levels. However, it is always essential that staff members maintain high personal and professional standards at all times. Supervision of campers is the same both in and outside of camp.
Taking attendance with your cabin: When your cabin is physically together, cabin counselors are responsible for doing repeated head counts to make sure everyone is accounted for in the cabin. For example, when you leave the cabin in the morning to go to breakfast, one counselor is standing at the door counting the campers as they leave and that counselor is the last one out the door. When you arrive at breakfast, you do another headcount to make sure everyone is present. At the end of breakfast, you do another head count before heading back to the cabin. When you get back to the cabin, it’s time for another head count.
Taking attendance in your activity areas: One staff member assigned to each class will receive an attendance list for that specific class. If a camper doesn’t arrive at your class within 5 minutes of the start time, one of the staff who is teaching that class finds a director or gets on the nearest walkie-talkie to alert the director team. You will receive a new attendance list if your roster changes on Tuesday and Wednesday. For classes that move around our property (waterfront, mountain biking, photography, etc.), it is important that you do attendance checks often.
Review and Evaluation:
Each staff member will receive feedback and evaluations relating to their job performance. Formal written evaluations will be held with the staff member's supervisor at least twice during the summer. These will be based on the staff member's job description and on job objectives determined at the start of the summer. The Camp Director will maintain these evaluations, and they will be available for review by the staff member. The evaluations are intended to inform the staff member of their strengths and weaknesses and to encourage them to grow as staff. This will also assist the administrative staff in the selection of future staff and staff assignments
Cabin Counselor Responsibilities:
• Assume responsibility for the safety and welfare of all campers in their cabin, and follow emergency procedures when necessary, as described in the Staff Handbook.
• Care for each camper, and encourage their personal growth and development.
• Participate in and attend all camp functions (i.e. staff training, etc.).
• Act in accordance with the Camp North Star mission, philosophy, policies, and procedures as stated in the Staff Handbook.
• Actively supervise campers during cabin activities, meal times, free time, downtime, evening programs, and special events.
• Admit mistakes when you make them so that your campers can see that it is all right to try, to fail, and to try again.
• Be positive. Our staff members have an enormous influence on the attitude in camp. We’re here to help each other. By approaching things with a positive outlook and growth mindset, you’ll have more fun and so will your campers.
Program Staff Responsibilities:
• Teach in a specialized activity area(s) - arts, athletics, outdoors, and waterfront.
• Implement the specified lesson plans as assigned by their department head.
• Maintain accurate attendance records, care for equipment and supplies, and make sure they are stored correctly.
• Promote positive values in campers through the use of effective group work techniques.
All Staff Responsibilities:
• Never take personal problems or complaints to the campers. Problems or complaints should be resolved with the specific individual involved. Additionally, staff should always go up the line to their direct supervisor or to the Director until the issue is successfully resolved.
• Allow campers to have fun, to be kids, and yet help them see the effect of their choices on others.
Supervision:
Camp North Star staff members are responsible for the safety and supervision of each and every camper in our charge. It is our philosophy and practice to put each child’s welfare, care, and growth as our number one priority in all that we do at camp. Our intentions and actions are expected to be consistent with this philosophy and practice.
The health, safety, and general welfare of the campers are paramount. Staff is expected to be with their campers at all times except during assigned time off. Staff is responsible for supervising the cleanliness and general health of their campers. Staff members act as important role models in influencing camper behavior. Different skills, tones, and interactions are needed when interacting with different age groups and ability levels. However, it is always essential that staff members maintain high personal and professional standards at all times. Supervision of campers is the same both in and outside of camp.
Taking attendance with your cabin: When your cabin is physically together, cabin counselors are responsible for doing repeated head counts to make sure everyone is accounted for in the cabin. For example, when you leave the cabin in the morning to go to breakfast, one counselor is standing at the door counting the campers as they leave and that counselor is the last one out the door. When you arrive at breakfast, you do another headcount to make sure everyone is present. At the end of breakfast, you do another head count before heading back to the cabin. When you get back to the cabin, it’s time for another head count.
Taking attendance in your activity areas: One staff member assigned to each class will receive an attendance list for that specific class. If a camper doesn’t arrive at your class within 5 minutes of the start time, one of the staff who is teaching that class finds a director or gets on the nearest walkie-talkie to alert the director team. You will receive a new attendance list if your roster changes on Tuesday and Wednesday. For classes that move around our property (waterfront, mountain biking, photography, etc.), it is important that you do attendance checks often.
Review and Evaluation:
Each staff member will receive feedback and evaluations relating to their job performance. Formal written evaluations will be held with the staff member's supervisor at least twice during the summer. These will be based on the staff member's job description and on job objectives determined at the start of the summer. The Camp Director will maintain these evaluations, and they will be available for review by the staff member. The evaluations are intended to inform the staff member of their strengths and weaknesses and to encourage them to grow as staff. This will also assist the administrative staff in the selection of future staff and staff assignments
What are the Core Values of our Counselors?
Teamwork. When people work together, they can create something greater than themselves as individuals.:
Fun. Enjoyment while developing or using the skills and expertise to create a memorable and rewarding experience for campers and staff.:
Learning. No one has all the answers. We develop professionally by expanding our capabilities with innovative ongoing training.:
Belonging. Ensuring everyone involved feels like they have a place and are accepted for who they are. Fostering a sense of community and family. :
Impact. Having a positive influence and effect on your peers and the campers you supervise. Have an unwavering approach toward a difference with positive results.:
Grit. We embrace the hard stuff. Sleeves rolled up, we attack every challenge head-on.:
Fun. Enjoyment while developing or using the skills and expertise to create a memorable and rewarding experience for campers and staff.:
Learning. No one has all the answers. We develop professionally by expanding our capabilities with innovative ongoing training.:
Belonging. Ensuring everyone involved feels like they have a place and are accepted for who they are. Fostering a sense of community and family. :
Impact. Having a positive influence and effect on your peers and the campers you supervise. Have an unwavering approach toward a difference with positive results.:
Grit. We embrace the hard stuff. Sleeves rolled up, we attack every challenge head-on.:
What is the daily schedule?
Daily Schedule:
7:15 Wake-up
8:00 Line-up and Breakfast
8:45 Cabin Clean-up
9:35 1st Elective Period
10:40 2nd Elective Period
11:50 Lunch
12:35 Down Time
1:25 3rd Elective Period
2:30 4th Elective Period
3:35 Snack
3:50 5th Elective Period
4:55 Free Time
5:50 Camp Meeting
6:00 Dinner
6:45 Supervised Free Play
7:15 Evening Activity
8:45 Snack
12:00 Staff Curfew
7:15 Wake-up
8:00 Line-up and Breakfast
8:45 Cabin Clean-up
9:35 1st Elective Period
10:40 2nd Elective Period
11:50 Lunch
12:35 Down Time
1:25 3rd Elective Period
2:30 4th Elective Period
3:35 Snack
3:50 5th Elective Period
4:55 Free Time
5:50 Camp Meeting
6:00 Dinner
6:45 Supervised Free Play
7:15 Evening Activity
8:45 Snack
12:00 Staff Curfew
What are the daily routines for a cabin?
Wake-Up:: The bell rings at 7:15 am. Counselors should wake up at or before 7:15 am and be proactive in making sure all campers are awake and dressed in a timely manner. Campers and counselors should depart their cabin, allowing enough time to arrive promptly at breakfast at 8:00 am. If campers and staff need morning meds, time needs to be allowed to go to the Health Center to take their meds and still arrive at breakfast area by 8:00 am.
Campers and Staff clothing: Counselors need to be aware of what their campers are wearing, and need to ensure their campers are dressed appropriately for the weather (rain and shine!).
• If it’s raining, everyone should be wearing at least a raincoat. Some campers will wear rain boots.
• If it’s chilly or breezy, everyone should be wearing a sweatshirt or windbreaker. If you are putting on a sweatshirt, you better make sure your campers are too! Plan ahead. If it’s “campfire” night, bring a sweatshirt that can be worn later in the evening when it cools down.
• If it’s sunny, everyone should be wearing hats and sunscreen to ward off sunburn or heat exposure.
• Staff must also remind campers all day long to drink plenty of water. This is most important on hot sunny days.
• During meal times everyone must be wearing a shirt, shorts/pants, and footwear. Bathing suits are considered inappropriate for meal times.
Down Time: Every afternoon following lunch, campers and staff go back to cabins for “down time.” This quiet mid-day time is for campers to read, listen to music (with headphones), shower, nap, and/or quietly talk. Counselors must remain awake and actively supervise the cabin and engage with campers when needed. Campers are required to stay at their own cabin or cabin porch.
Elective Activity Periods: Campers choose from a variety of different activities that meet for 5 consecutive days. Counselors are assigned to classes based on their skills. Counselors hired as specialists in their areas will teach multiple classes of the same activity. Others may move around to different areas as the schedule demands.
Free Time: Campers are allowed to participate in different activities offered during this time including free swim, gaga, sports on Maine Field, archery, and arts in the Arts Studios, depending on the weather and available staff. Free Time activities/locations will be listed on the Dining Hall porch.
Morning Line-up: Every morning after breakfast the entire camp meets together on Maine Field. All information for the day’s activities and important tidbits for the day are shared.
Camp Meeting: Every afternoon before dinner the entire camp meets together. All information for evening program and the next day’s activities are shared, and camp songs and other traditions take place.
Supervised Free Play: Some evenings between dinner and evening program, there will be a supervised free play period. Campers can freely participate in activities between the Gaga Court and Maine Field. Counselors are expected to be actively supervising an area assigned to them.
Evening Program: Activities will vary every evening on a rotating schedule and appeal to many interests. These activities are focused on fun, participation, and community building. Counselors need to find a balance between maintaining your enthusiasm for the activity while making sure your campers are attentive and participating in the program themselves. Some popular activities are campfire, counselor hunt, casino night, and dances.
Social Time: After evening programs, campers that are in the Junior, Middies, and Senior Divisions may be given time to socialize on Maine Field or in The Grove. The amount of time given may vary by division, cabin, and how late the evening program runs. That decision is made by directors, in conjunction with feedback from counselors. Counselors are responsible for actively supervising all campers during this time.
Campers and Staff clothing: Counselors need to be aware of what their campers are wearing, and need to ensure their campers are dressed appropriately for the weather (rain and shine!).
• If it’s raining, everyone should be wearing at least a raincoat. Some campers will wear rain boots.
• If it’s chilly or breezy, everyone should be wearing a sweatshirt or windbreaker. If you are putting on a sweatshirt, you better make sure your campers are too! Plan ahead. If it’s “campfire” night, bring a sweatshirt that can be worn later in the evening when it cools down.
• If it’s sunny, everyone should be wearing hats and sunscreen to ward off sunburn or heat exposure.
• Staff must also remind campers all day long to drink plenty of water. This is most important on hot sunny days.
• During meal times everyone must be wearing a shirt, shorts/pants, and footwear. Bathing suits are considered inappropriate for meal times.
Down Time: Every afternoon following lunch, campers and staff go back to cabins for “down time.” This quiet mid-day time is for campers to read, listen to music (with headphones), shower, nap, and/or quietly talk. Counselors must remain awake and actively supervise the cabin and engage with campers when needed. Campers are required to stay at their own cabin or cabin porch.
Elective Activity Periods: Campers choose from a variety of different activities that meet for 5 consecutive days. Counselors are assigned to classes based on their skills. Counselors hired as specialists in their areas will teach multiple classes of the same activity. Others may move around to different areas as the schedule demands.
Free Time: Campers are allowed to participate in different activities offered during this time including free swim, gaga, sports on Maine Field, archery, and arts in the Arts Studios, depending on the weather and available staff. Free Time activities/locations will be listed on the Dining Hall porch.
Morning Line-up: Every morning after breakfast the entire camp meets together on Maine Field. All information for the day’s activities and important tidbits for the day are shared.
Camp Meeting: Every afternoon before dinner the entire camp meets together. All information for evening program and the next day’s activities are shared, and camp songs and other traditions take place.
Supervised Free Play: Some evenings between dinner and evening program, there will be a supervised free play period. Campers can freely participate in activities between the Gaga Court and Maine Field. Counselors are expected to be actively supervising an area assigned to them.
Evening Program: Activities will vary every evening on a rotating schedule and appeal to many interests. These activities are focused on fun, participation, and community building. Counselors need to find a balance between maintaining your enthusiasm for the activity while making sure your campers are attentive and participating in the program themselves. Some popular activities are campfire, counselor hunt, casino night, and dances.
Social Time: After evening programs, campers that are in the Junior, Middies, and Senior Divisions may be given time to socialize on Maine Field or in The Grove. The amount of time given may vary by division, cabin, and how late the evening program runs. That decision is made by directors, in conjunction with feedback from counselors. Counselors are responsible for actively supervising all campers during this time.
What are some of the non-daily routines for a cabin?
Laundry Day: Upon arrival to camp, all campers and staff will be issued a laundry bag. Laundry bag numbers should be recorded by counselors, and a master list handed into the office, so in case a laundry bag is unaccounted for, it can be returned. Campers and counselors should only use the laundry bags that are provided, not their own.
Laundry bags will be collected once a week. We work with an outside company that will come to camp and collects laundry bags. Everyone must send their laundry out each week. Laundry bags should contain all dirty clothes, sheets, and towels. Counselors should be ensuring that all dirty clothes are placed in the laundry bags throughout the week and that on laundry day, beds are stripped and linens are washed. Do not put wet laundry in the bag.
Late Wake-up: Some weekends, there may be a late wake-up. The directors will inform everyone the day before. This typically means that the morning wake-up bell and breakfast will be shifted an hour later, with the wake-up bell ringing at 8:15 am, and breakfast beginning at 9 am.
Big/Little Brother/Sister: Our big/little sibling program aims to bring together our youngest and our oldest campers to form meaningful connections, and our oldest campers to be role models for the next generation of campers. The oldest 3 cabins on each side of camp will be paired with the youngest 3 cabins on each side of camp. These pairings will have lunch together once a week. We also aim to find other times for these cabins to do activities and spend time together in other meaningful and creative ways.
Mail, Bunk Notes, Bunk Replies, and Packages: All USPS mail is delivered and collected daily, except Sundays. The office then sorts this mail by cabin, and it is delivered to each cabin’s mailbox in the afternoon. If a package arrives for you or one of your campers, a package slip will be left in your mailbox. This package slip means that the recipient (accompanied by a counselor if it is a camper) should proceed to the main office following breakfast to receive their package. All packages must be opened in front of a director. Prohibited items will be confiscated, but may be returned upon departure, depending on their nature.
Families can also send letters digitally, called “bunk notes”. Bunk notes are printed once a day, sorted by the recipient, and placed in the mailboxes with regular mail. The sender of a bunk note can choose to attach a “bunk reply.” A bunk reply is a reply form that will then be scanned and digitally returned to the sender. Campers’ bunk replies should be filled out within 24 hours of receiving them, in black or blue ink. Pencil or other pen colors will not reliably be scanned. Bunk replies cannot simply be written on a piece of paper. If a camper would like a bunk reply form, they or their counselor can ask a director to get in touch with the camper’s family, but a standard letter cannot be scanned and sent. Bunk replies must be delivered by counselors to the office as soon as possible. Theme Days: We encourage staff and campers alike to dress up in the mornings along different themes. Doing this is optional, but dressing up together as a cabin is a fun, silly, community-building experience. We will give some suggestions on what these themes can be, but they are always a theme that begins with the same letter/sound as that day of the week (ex. Minion Monday, Twin Tuesday, Flannel Friday, etc.) the sky's the limit on creativity! However, the biggest theme day is Wacky Wednesday, which we do every week. Wacky Wednesday is all about dressing up as silly, wild, and…. wacky! as possible. We offer different themes each week for inspiration. For a list of the themes for the summer, refer to the staff packing list.
Late Wake-up: Some weekends, there may be a late wake-up. The directors will inform everyone the day before. This typically means that the morning wake-up bell and breakfast will be shifted an hour later, with the wake-up bell ringing at 8:15 am, and breakfast beginning at 9 am.
Big/Little Brother/Sister: Our big/little sibling program aims to bring together our youngest and our oldest campers to form meaningful connections, and our oldest campers to be role models for the next generation of campers. The oldest 3 cabins on each side of camp will be paired with the youngest 3 cabins on each side of camp. These pairings will have lunch together once a week. We also aim to find other times for these cabins to do activities and spend time together in other meaningful and creative ways.
Mail, Bunk Notes, Bunk Replies, and Packages: All USPS mail is delivered and collected daily, except Sundays. The office then sorts this mail by cabin, and it is delivered to each cabin’s mailbox in the afternoon. If a package arrives for you or one of your campers, a package slip will be left in your mailbox. This package slip means that the recipient (accompanied by a counselor if it is a camper) should proceed to the main office following breakfast to receive their package. All packages must be opened in front of a director. Prohibited items will be confiscated, but may be returned upon departure, depending on their nature.
Families can also send letters digitally, called “bunk notes”. Bunk notes are printed once a day, sorted by the recipient, and placed in the mailboxes with regular mail. The sender of a bunk note can choose to attach a “bunk reply.” A bunk reply is a reply form that will then be scanned and digitally returned to the sender. Campers’ bunk replies should be filled out within 24 hours of receiving them, in black or blue ink. Pencil or other pen colors will not reliably be scanned. Bunk replies cannot simply be written on a piece of paper. If a camper would like a bunk reply form, they or their counselor can ask a director to get in touch with the camper’s family, but a standard letter cannot be scanned and sent. Bunk replies must be delivered by counselors to the office as soon as possible. Theme Days: We encourage staff and campers alike to dress up in the mornings along different themes. Doing this is optional, but dressing up together as a cabin is a fun, silly, community-building experience. We will give some suggestions on what these themes can be, but they are always a theme that begins with the same letter/sound as that day of the week (ex. Minion Monday, Twin Tuesday, Flannel Friday, etc.) the sky's the limit on creativity! However, the biggest theme day is Wacky Wednesday, which we do every week. Wacky Wednesday is all about dressing up as silly, wild, and…. wacky! as possible. We offer different themes each week for inspiration. For a list of the themes for the summer, refer to the staff packing list.
What is meal time like?
Set-Up: One counselor or CIT will arrive 5 - 10 minutes before the start of the meal to set up for family-style meals. If a meal is served cafeteria style, there is no setup required.
Dining Hall Procedures: Cabins eat together at meals. (Depending on COVID guidelines, campers may be able to sit freely with other campers in their division during lunch) Tables will be dismissed by a director once all cabin members are accounted for and sitting.
If you have a camper with a special diet, food allergy, or food intolerance, you will be notified ahead of time. There is a specific area of the dining hall where alternate food items are served for campers and staff with a special diet, food allergy, or food intolerance. Only campers and staff in those situations are permitted to take food from that area.
If a meal is served family style, the counselor or CIT will get the tray and bring it back to the table. Counselors can bring serving dishes to the counter for kitchen staff to refill. A maximum of two people are allowed up from the table at a time. Proper etiquette and respect will be adhered to in the dining room at all times. Counselors are responsible for the well-being and care of each camper. At meals, this includes: monitoring food intake (too much and too little), food allergies, balanced meals, and drinking plenty of fluids.
The expectation for counselors is that they are actively involved in a conversation with their campers. Meals are not an off period for staff, they are an opportunity to have meaningful dialogue with your cabin.
Dessert is served only at dinner, and tables are to wait until dismissed by a director to get dessert. We are a "Nut-Free" camp. We do not serve any products that include nuts or that were processed in a plant with nuts.
Campers and staff are not permitted to bet or wager for food or anything else. You may find campers trying to “bet” to gain an extra snack or dessert. That is not permitted.
Food is not permitted outside of the dining hall/tent. That means no food in cabins at all. Unless food is part of an activity (campfire cooking, etc.), the only other place to keep food is at the staff lounge. Any food stored in the staff lounge falls under all camp rules including being nut-free.
Clean-up Procedures: The time to begin cleaning up will be signaled by a director announcement, or by a “clean up song” beginning to play. Counselors will be responsible for organizing and ensuring the clearing of dishes and leftovers. Stack and organize dishes in an efficient way. After all dirty dishes are organized, a counselor will bring all items to the kitchen window, putting items in their respective places. We intentionally limit one person per table to go to the kitchen window at a time to avoid congestion. Campers will wipe down the table. When all tables are cleaned and quiet, a director will begin dismissing tables.
Dining Hall Procedures: Cabins eat together at meals. (Depending on COVID guidelines, campers may be able to sit freely with other campers in their division during lunch) Tables will be dismissed by a director once all cabin members are accounted for and sitting.
If you have a camper with a special diet, food allergy, or food intolerance, you will be notified ahead of time. There is a specific area of the dining hall where alternate food items are served for campers and staff with a special diet, food allergy, or food intolerance. Only campers and staff in those situations are permitted to take food from that area.
If a meal is served family style, the counselor or CIT will get the tray and bring it back to the table. Counselors can bring serving dishes to the counter for kitchen staff to refill. A maximum of two people are allowed up from the table at a time. Proper etiquette and respect will be adhered to in the dining room at all times. Counselors are responsible for the well-being and care of each camper. At meals, this includes: monitoring food intake (too much and too little), food allergies, balanced meals, and drinking plenty of fluids.
The expectation for counselors is that they are actively involved in a conversation with their campers. Meals are not an off period for staff, they are an opportunity to have meaningful dialogue with your cabin.
Dessert is served only at dinner, and tables are to wait until dismissed by a director to get dessert. We are a "Nut-Free" camp. We do not serve any products that include nuts or that were processed in a plant with nuts.
Campers and staff are not permitted to bet or wager for food or anything else. You may find campers trying to “bet” to gain an extra snack or dessert. That is not permitted.
Food is not permitted outside of the dining hall/tent. That means no food in cabins at all. Unless food is part of an activity (campfire cooking, etc.), the only other place to keep food is at the staff lounge. Any food stored in the staff lounge falls under all camp rules including being nut-free.
Clean-up Procedures: The time to begin cleaning up will be signaled by a director announcement, or by a “clean up song” beginning to play. Counselors will be responsible for organizing and ensuring the clearing of dishes and leftovers. Stack and organize dishes in an efficient way. After all dirty dishes are organized, a counselor will bring all items to the kitchen window, putting items in their respective places. We intentionally limit one person per table to go to the kitchen window at a time to avoid congestion. Campers will wipe down the table. When all tables are cleaned and quiet, a director will begin dismissing tables.
How do we take care of our cabin?
Cabin Set up: When campers arrive, everything in their bags should be unpacked and stored neatly in the cubbies. All empty luggage is placed either under the bed or in the attic space above the bathroom. Each camper is assigned their own bed, designated with a name tag. Each bed is only to have one mattress on it, even if every bed in a given cabin isn’t being used. Bed rails on top bunks are not to be removed.
Cabin Clean-Up and Inspection: Monday through Friday, a director will inspect the cabins. Counselors and campers are responsible for cleaning the cabin between breakfast and 1st Period. Counselors need to be active participants during cabin cleanup. Chores include: picking up litter outside and inside the cabin, sweeping the cabin floor and porch, cleaning and mopping excess water in bathrooms, making beds, and organizing cubbies and personal areas. Utilize laundry bags and clotheslines, and remind campers to put dirty and/or wet clothes in their proper place.
Definition of a Clean Cabin: • Beds neatly made.
• Floors swept including under beds.
• Clothes and other belongings are put away neatly.
• All footwear is put away in a cubby or under the bed.
• Wet bathing suits, towels, etc., hung up to dry on the outside clothesline.
• Towels hung up.
• Porch and stairs swept.
• Trash cans emptied and turned upside down.
• Broom and dustpan behind the bathroom door.
• Papers and trash picked up outside around the cabin.
• Laundry bags should be hung up off the floor.
• Shelves of cubbies should be neat.
• Top of cubbies should be neat and organized.
• All lights and fans should be turned off when you leave the cabin.
Golden Dustpan: Two cabins, one from the girls’ side and one from the boys’ side of camp, are chosen based on total cleanliness for the week. Winning cabins are awarded the Golden Dustpan on Fridays and an ice cream dessert at lunch.
Cabin Clean-Up and Inspection: Monday through Friday, a director will inspect the cabins. Counselors and campers are responsible for cleaning the cabin between breakfast and 1st Period. Counselors need to be active participants during cabin cleanup. Chores include: picking up litter outside and inside the cabin, sweeping the cabin floor and porch, cleaning and mopping excess water in bathrooms, making beds, and organizing cubbies and personal areas. Utilize laundry bags and clotheslines, and remind campers to put dirty and/or wet clothes in their proper place.
Definition of a Clean Cabin: • Beds neatly made.
• Floors swept including under beds.
• Clothes and other belongings are put away neatly.
• All footwear is put away in a cubby or under the bed.
• Wet bathing suits, towels, etc., hung up to dry on the outside clothesline.
• Towels hung up.
• Porch and stairs swept.
• Trash cans emptied and turned upside down.
• Broom and dustpan behind the bathroom door.
• Papers and trash picked up outside around the cabin.
• Laundry bags should be hung up off the floor.
• Shelves of cubbies should be neat.
• Top of cubbies should be neat and organized.
• All lights and fans should be turned off when you leave the cabin.
Golden Dustpan: Two cabins, one from the girls’ side and one from the boys’ side of camp, are chosen based on total cleanliness for the week. Winning cabins are awarded the Golden Dustpan on Fridays and an ice cream dessert at lunch.
What do cabin counselors discuss with their cabin on the first day of a session?
Cabin orientation happens on the first day of every session. The purpose is to answer all questions campers may have, assist them in settling into their new environment, meet their cabinmates and counselors, and go over the rules and regulations of the space. A list of topics to be covered is listed below. (A full camp overview orientation will happen with the entire camp throughout the first day.)
• Learn names and introduce yourself.
• Explain what happens if they get sick, hurt, or homesick.
• Show them all the cabin facilities, inside and out.
• Explain Dining Hall procedures and how we prepare for meals.
• Go over the daily schedule with them and then post it where they can see it.
• Explain the Bell.
• Help them to learn each other’s names and the names of staff members.
• Explain other aspects of camp life, such as camp meeting, snack time, and free time.
• Go over cabin rules and responsibilities.
• Describe your expectations from them - behavior, what they need to do and not do, etc.
• Personal cleanliness
• Cabin Clean Up
• Shower Schedule
• Lights Out
• Explain the safety procedures for fire, storms, and a lost camper.
• Explain what they should do if they wake up in the middle of the night and need something.
• Collect any of the following - passports, money, any other valuables, cell phones, electronics that aren’t permitted, food, and medicine.
• Learn names and introduce yourself.
• Explain what happens if they get sick, hurt, or homesick.
• Show them all the cabin facilities, inside and out.
• Explain Dining Hall procedures and how we prepare for meals.
• Go over the daily schedule with them and then post it where they can see it.
• Explain the Bell.
• Help them to learn each other’s names and the names of staff members.
• Explain other aspects of camp life, such as camp meeting, snack time, and free time.
• Go over cabin rules and responsibilities.
• Describe your expectations from them - behavior, what they need to do and not do, etc.
• Personal cleanliness
• Cabin Clean Up
• Shower Schedule
• Lights Out
• Explain the safety procedures for fire, storms, and a lost camper.
• Explain what they should do if they wake up in the middle of the night and need something.
• Collect any of the following - passports, money, any other valuables, cell phones, electronics that aren’t permitted, food, and medicine.
What are some of the camp rules that cabin counselors discuss with their cabin?
• Campers are expected to be present and participate in all activities and to remain in supervised areas at all times.
• Leaving cabins after “lights out” in the evenings or early mornings is by permission only. A staff member MUST accompany campers or designate a camper “buddy.” Remember if you need to leave the cabin in the middle of the night with a camper, you can't be alone with only one camper. You must bring a camper buddy or another staff member.
• No cameras of any kind are allowed to be used inside the cabins. No pictures or videos are to be taken inside any cabin. There is the risk that those pictures or videos might inadvertently capture a camper at a vulnerable or inappropriate moment. Pictures and videos are only to be taken outside of cabins.
• Campers are expected to be respectful of each other, themselves and our staff at all times. Physical or verbal hostilities or bullying of any kind will not be permitted while at camp or after. We expect campers to be respectful of the community both in and out of camp.
• Public Displays of Affection (PDA) are not permitted in camp. This rule applies to counselors and campers.
• Campers are not permitted to alter their physical appearance while at camp. This includes but is not limited to hair dying, cutting, shaving, hair cutting, body piercing, or tattooing. If a staff member chooses to change their appearance in any of the ways listed above, it must be done off-property and not around campers.
• We live amongst several species of animals both domestic and wild. Campers are expected to respect both our furry friends and our natural environment. Teasing or hurting animals, littering, and other destructive behavior, for example peeling the bark of trees or pulling down live limbs, are not permitted.
• All campers MUST adhere to the rules of the Waterfront and Lakes. Campers are not permitted near the water at camp without certified lifeguards and proper supervision.
• Cabins are private and open to the residents of each specific cabin only. Campers and staff are ONLY permitted in their own cabin, including the porch. Therefore, visiting in cabins or cabin porches is never permitted.
• Leaving cabins after “lights out” in the evenings or early mornings is by permission only. A staff member MUST accompany campers or designate a camper “buddy.” Remember if you need to leave the cabin in the middle of the night with a camper, you can't be alone with only one camper. You must bring a camper buddy or another staff member.
• No cameras of any kind are allowed to be used inside the cabins. No pictures or videos are to be taken inside any cabin. There is the risk that those pictures or videos might inadvertently capture a camper at a vulnerable or inappropriate moment. Pictures and videos are only to be taken outside of cabins.
• Campers are expected to be respectful of each other, themselves and our staff at all times. Physical or verbal hostilities or bullying of any kind will not be permitted while at camp or after. We expect campers to be respectful of the community both in and out of camp.
• Public Displays of Affection (PDA) are not permitted in camp. This rule applies to counselors and campers.
• Campers are not permitted to alter their physical appearance while at camp. This includes but is not limited to hair dying, cutting, shaving, hair cutting, body piercing, or tattooing. If a staff member chooses to change their appearance in any of the ways listed above, it must be done off-property and not around campers.
• We live amongst several species of animals both domestic and wild. Campers are expected to respect both our furry friends and our natural environment. Teasing or hurting animals, littering, and other destructive behavior, for example peeling the bark of trees or pulling down live limbs, are not permitted.
• All campers MUST adhere to the rules of the Waterfront and Lakes. Campers are not permitted near the water at camp without certified lifeguards and proper supervision.
• Cabins are private and open to the residents of each specific cabin only. Campers and staff are ONLY permitted in their own cabin, including the porch. Therefore, visiting in cabins or cabin porches is never permitted.
What are the policies and procedures for trips out of camp?
Trips at Camp:
Some trips are camp-wide trips for the entire camp. Other trips are assigned by cabin or division. Some weekend trips are chosen by the individual camper. Popular trips include the Portland Seadogs baseball game, beach trip, tubbing on the Androscoggin River, and cruise to Peaks Island.
Trip Day Responsibilities:
• Nobody gets left behind. Take attendance and head counts whenever you get on or off a bus.
• Actively supervise campers at all times to ensure safety.
• Represent Camp North Star in a positive manner by being respectful and encouraging the same behavior of campers.
• The same rules governing your conduct in camp apply on trips.
• Trip Days are not days off. Remember that you are on duty and your care of the campers is as always your primary responsibility.
• Staff t-shirts are worn on all trips.
Accounting for Campers
All trips require that the trip leader leave a roster of participants in the possession of the Main Office along with a schedule and itinerary. All trips will require special arrangements through the nurse to send along any needed medication. A second roster will be carried on the vehicle by the trip leader.
At the start of each trip, at every stop, and at any time before pulling out and leaving, coming or going, the trip leader will take a headcount of persons in the vehicle, including the driver, and match that to the starting count. The leader will call roll and match names with the starting roster. To ensure no errors, both a number count and a name call must be carried out.
Lost Camper
In the event you leave a destination and later discover you are missing a camper, call the camp office and/or a director, while you proceed back to get the camper. We will either direct you to return and get the camper, and will call ahead to the location to reassure them, or we will direct you to return and will dispatch a car from camp. Always, if the camper is in a location near a phone, we will try to contact that location to reassure them and arrange for the camper’s safety. If the camper has already called home or 911, we will address that.
When Campers Intermingle with the Public on Trips:
In General:
• Campers are to wear Camp North Star apparel.
• Use the buddy system and take a head count every 15-30 minutes, before and after moving from one area to another.
• Make sure campers know what to expect and what the rules are.
• Camp policies on behavior (polite and appropriate) apply to all out-of-camp trips.
• Staff escort campers to the bathroom.
• Keep belongings with the group or have someone stay with them.
• Report uninvited guests or suspicious circumstances to staff immediately.
• Define the area in which campers are to stay; if leaving the boundary area, they must go with staff.
• When in a stationary area, like at a baseball game, staff should spread out within the group, remaining visible, accessible, and attentive to the needs of the campers.
When Walking:
• Walk in pairs on the right, to allow others to pass comfortably.
• One staff member should lead and another should follow
• Cross streets as a group at designated crossings only.
• Keep the group together; suit the pace to the slowest person
.
Some trips are camp-wide trips for the entire camp. Other trips are assigned by cabin or division. Some weekend trips are chosen by the individual camper. Popular trips include the Portland Seadogs baseball game, beach trip, tubbing on the Androscoggin River, and cruise to Peaks Island.
Trip Day Responsibilities:
• Nobody gets left behind. Take attendance and head counts whenever you get on or off a bus.
• Actively supervise campers at all times to ensure safety.
• Represent Camp North Star in a positive manner by being respectful and encouraging the same behavior of campers.
• The same rules governing your conduct in camp apply on trips.
• Trip Days are not days off. Remember that you are on duty and your care of the campers is as always your primary responsibility.
• Staff t-shirts are worn on all trips.
Accounting for Campers
All trips require that the trip leader leave a roster of participants in the possession of the Main Office along with a schedule and itinerary. All trips will require special arrangements through the nurse to send along any needed medication. A second roster will be carried on the vehicle by the trip leader.
At the start of each trip, at every stop, and at any time before pulling out and leaving, coming or going, the trip leader will take a headcount of persons in the vehicle, including the driver, and match that to the starting count. The leader will call roll and match names with the starting roster. To ensure no errors, both a number count and a name call must be carried out.
Lost Camper
In the event you leave a destination and later discover you are missing a camper, call the camp office and/or a director, while you proceed back to get the camper. We will either direct you to return and get the camper, and will call ahead to the location to reassure them, or we will direct you to return and will dispatch a car from camp. Always, if the camper is in a location near a phone, we will try to contact that location to reassure them and arrange for the camper’s safety. If the camper has already called home or 911, we will address that.
When Campers Intermingle with the Public on Trips:
In General:
• Campers are to wear Camp North Star apparel.
• Use the buddy system and take a head count every 15-30 minutes, before and after moving from one area to another.
• Make sure campers know what to expect and what the rules are.
• Camp policies on behavior (polite and appropriate) apply to all out-of-camp trips.
• Staff escort campers to the bathroom.
• Keep belongings with the group or have someone stay with them.
• Report uninvited guests or suspicious circumstances to staff immediately.
• Define the area in which campers are to stay; if leaving the boundary area, they must go with staff.
• When in a stationary area, like at a baseball game, staff should spread out within the group, remaining visible, accessible, and attentive to the needs of the campers.
When Walking:
• Walk in pairs on the right, to allow others to pass comfortably.
• One staff member should lead and another should follow
• Cross streets as a group at designated crossings only.
• Keep the group together; suit the pace to the slowest person
.
What are some of the health care considerations for campers in your care?
For campers:
The physical care and well-being of each camper are our responsibility. Staff members are responsible for being aware and involved in the basic, general, and specific care of their campers:
• Daily hygiene - washing hands and face, showering, brushing teeth, etc.
• Skincare and proper hydration
• Being properly dressed for program activities
• Taking of daily medications & medical needs
Staff can help in the following areas:
• Make sure nobody shares hairbrushes, hair accessories, hats, etc., as this can spread lice.
• Make sure that campers change their clothes regularly and dissuade campers from sharing their clothes. Wearing the same clothes repeatedly can cause Scabies, Impetigo, or the spread of head lice. It is important to change and wash bedding and towels once a week as well.
• Encourage everyone to wear flip-flops in the shower. This can help reduce the risk of warts, verrucas, or fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot.
• Bring any area of concern (i.e., a camper with excessive bug bites, a camper who is repeatedly scratching their head or skin, scrapes that don’t appear to be healing, etc.) to the nurses.
• Encourage campers to drink fluids often and encourage good eating habits by setting a good example (i.e, by not skipping meals or discussing “dieting.”).
• Remind campers to put on sunscreen daily and to re-apply throughout the day. Encourage campers to wear bug spray in the evenings when mosquitos and other bugs are more prevalent.
Standard Health Center Procedures:
• Nurses will document the name of the patient, ailment, and treatment prescribed at the health center.
• When and if campers are administered any medication outside their daily medications, a parent will be notified by one of the camp’s nurses or directors.
• If campers spend the night in the health center, experience a fever higher than 100 degrees, or anything else out of the ordinary, a phone call home will be made as well.
• If an injury or serious illness occurs, the parent and a nurse will be advised by the staff member involved and consulted immediately.
• A detailed accident report must be completed by the staff person in charge at the time and filed with the office immediately.
• If a child or staff member is suspected of having a communicable disease, they shall be isolated and medical assistance obtained.
• Any doctor visits will also have a parent/guardian involved.
• A written arrangement for emergency medical treatment shall be made with a hospital or doctor's office as close as possible to the camp.
Camper Medication: Cabin counselors will receive a list at the start of each session with campers who require daily medication and the time to take the medication. Typically most campers receive medication before breakfast and before bedtime. Campers are escorted to the health center by a counselor. There are two windows on the porch of the health center. Nurses will be dispensing medication from each window. Campers and staff should not enter the health center unless asked to by a nurse. All medications for campers and staff, both prescription and over-the-counter, are stored in the health center only.
Medical Confidentiality: Due to the individual’s right to medical confidentiality, staff will only be informed of a camper's medical condition if there is considered a clear “need to know.” This applies to new, as well as existing conditions. Obviously, we have no control over the “camp grapevine,” and it is up to every individual to inform whom they wish about their own health. When it is considered necessary for staff to be informed of a camper's medical condition, accident, etc., staff will be informed discreetly and as soon as possible.
Incident Reports: All staff members have the duty and responsibility to report any type of incident, situation, trend, or occurrence that warrants the attention of the Camp Director. This includes, falls, close calls, near misses, near falls, potential disasters, safety threats, behavioral issues (fighting, emotional outbursts), and/or significant rule violations. The incident must be promptly reported to a director so you can complete an Incident Report Form with that director.
The physical care and well-being of each camper are our responsibility. Staff members are responsible for being aware and involved in the basic, general, and specific care of their campers:
• Daily hygiene - washing hands and face, showering, brushing teeth, etc.
• Skincare and proper hydration
• Being properly dressed for program activities
• Taking of daily medications & medical needs
Staff can help in the following areas:
• Make sure nobody shares hairbrushes, hair accessories, hats, etc., as this can spread lice.
• Make sure that campers change their clothes regularly and dissuade campers from sharing their clothes. Wearing the same clothes repeatedly can cause Scabies, Impetigo, or the spread of head lice. It is important to change and wash bedding and towels once a week as well.
• Encourage everyone to wear flip-flops in the shower. This can help reduce the risk of warts, verrucas, or fungal infections such as Athlete’s Foot.
• Bring any area of concern (i.e., a camper with excessive bug bites, a camper who is repeatedly scratching their head or skin, scrapes that don’t appear to be healing, etc.) to the nurses.
• Encourage campers to drink fluids often and encourage good eating habits by setting a good example (i.e, by not skipping meals or discussing “dieting.”).
• Remind campers to put on sunscreen daily and to re-apply throughout the day. Encourage campers to wear bug spray in the evenings when mosquitos and other bugs are more prevalent.
Standard Health Center Procedures:
• Nurses will document the name of the patient, ailment, and treatment prescribed at the health center.
• When and if campers are administered any medication outside their daily medications, a parent will be notified by one of the camp’s nurses or directors.
• If campers spend the night in the health center, experience a fever higher than 100 degrees, or anything else out of the ordinary, a phone call home will be made as well.
• If an injury or serious illness occurs, the parent and a nurse will be advised by the staff member involved and consulted immediately.
• A detailed accident report must be completed by the staff person in charge at the time and filed with the office immediately.
• If a child or staff member is suspected of having a communicable disease, they shall be isolated and medical assistance obtained.
• Any doctor visits will also have a parent/guardian involved.
• A written arrangement for emergency medical treatment shall be made with a hospital or doctor's office as close as possible to the camp.
Camper Medication: Cabin counselors will receive a list at the start of each session with campers who require daily medication and the time to take the medication. Typically most campers receive medication before breakfast and before bedtime. Campers are escorted to the health center by a counselor. There are two windows on the porch of the health center. Nurses will be dispensing medication from each window. Campers and staff should not enter the health center unless asked to by a nurse. All medications for campers and staff, both prescription and over-the-counter, are stored in the health center only.
Medical Confidentiality: Due to the individual’s right to medical confidentiality, staff will only be informed of a camper's medical condition if there is considered a clear “need to know.” This applies to new, as well as existing conditions. Obviously, we have no control over the “camp grapevine,” and it is up to every individual to inform whom they wish about their own health. When it is considered necessary for staff to be informed of a camper's medical condition, accident, etc., staff will be informed discreetly and as soon as possible.
Incident Reports: All staff members have the duty and responsibility to report any type of incident, situation, trend, or occurrence that warrants the attention of the Camp Director. This includes, falls, close calls, near misses, near falls, potential disasters, safety threats, behavioral issues (fighting, emotional outbursts), and/or significant rule violations. The incident must be promptly reported to a director so you can complete an Incident Report Form with that director.
What is important to know about the health care of staff?
Staff Health Forms: Each staff member must provide Poland Campco, LLC with a completed Camp Health History Form prior to coming to camp. Specific immunizations are required for all staff.
Insurance: Poland Campco, LLC carries worker's compensation insurance on staff members. This covers job-related claims. All other claims will be covered by the staff member's personal insurance. All job-related injuries must be reported to the camp nurse and director immediately.
On-site Health Center: Poland Campco, LLC has a health center on-site with a registered nurse on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our camp nurses and our local physician are here to help our campers and staff with any and all medical needs while at camp. If the illness or injury is past the simple needs of our healthcare providers, the camp will make arrangements with local doctors or hospitals to provide you with the necessary medical attention required. The cost for any and all medical attention is at the cost of the staff member (job-related, worker’s compensation insurance coverage excluded).
Medication: Upon arrival to camp, all medications including over-the-counter, prescription, and non-prescription drugs and vitamins, need to be stored with the camp nurse and must be kept in the camp health center. Medications will be available at the health center office as needed. Any and all special orders or prescriptions necessary while at camp are the responsibility of the individual staff member. Our Health Center stocks basic generic over-the-counter drugs.
The nurses are the only staff allowed to dispense medications of any kind. Under no circumstance may any other staff members give campers any medication. Staff also should not give any medication to each other. The Health Care Center is fully stocked with all common over-the-counter painkillers, antihistamines, stomach remedies, etc., which are given free of charge. It is a Federal offense to give someone a prescription medication not intended for them. It also could be extremely dangerous. Severe drug reactions can occur with even commonly prescribed items and over-the-counter preparations.
Staff Health Care: It is essential that the nursing staff be aware of any ongoing health conditions in order for the correct health care to be appropriated in the case of an emergency. The nursing staff is at liberty to inform the camp directors of any health condition/illness which necessitates absence from a department or bunk, or which affects your ability to perform to full capacity. All accidents occurring at camp, whether while on duty or not, should be reported to the nursing staff, no matter how minor.
Any work-related accidents are covered by Worker's Compensation Insurance, but there is no camp insurance to cover illness. If you require any medication following your visit with the medical staff, you may call the prescription into the pharmacy and give them a credit card, in which case camp will collect the prescription for you at its earliest convenience. Camp is not responsible for the cost of treatment prescribed or for finding out the cost prior to the prescription being filled. If you do not wish to give a credit card over the phone to the pharmacy, then it is your responsibility to take and collect the prescription yourself on your time off.
If you are sick, the first day away from duties is given as a sick day. Any subsequent days absent are counted as days off and thus subtracted from your days off allowed. If you take a sick day, or any sick time, you must inform the nursing staff.
Insurance: Poland Campco, LLC carries worker's compensation insurance on staff members. This covers job-related claims. All other claims will be covered by the staff member's personal insurance. All job-related injuries must be reported to the camp nurse and director immediately.
On-site Health Center: Poland Campco, LLC has a health center on-site with a registered nurse on duty 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our camp nurses and our local physician are here to help our campers and staff with any and all medical needs while at camp. If the illness or injury is past the simple needs of our healthcare providers, the camp will make arrangements with local doctors or hospitals to provide you with the necessary medical attention required. The cost for any and all medical attention is at the cost of the staff member (job-related, worker’s compensation insurance coverage excluded).
Medication: Upon arrival to camp, all medications including over-the-counter, prescription, and non-prescription drugs and vitamins, need to be stored with the camp nurse and must be kept in the camp health center. Medications will be available at the health center office as needed. Any and all special orders or prescriptions necessary while at camp are the responsibility of the individual staff member. Our Health Center stocks basic generic over-the-counter drugs.
The nurses are the only staff allowed to dispense medications of any kind. Under no circumstance may any other staff members give campers any medication. Staff also should not give any medication to each other. The Health Care Center is fully stocked with all common over-the-counter painkillers, antihistamines, stomach remedies, etc., which are given free of charge. It is a Federal offense to give someone a prescription medication not intended for them. It also could be extremely dangerous. Severe drug reactions can occur with even commonly prescribed items and over-the-counter preparations.
Staff Health Care: It is essential that the nursing staff be aware of any ongoing health conditions in order for the correct health care to be appropriated in the case of an emergency. The nursing staff is at liberty to inform the camp directors of any health condition/illness which necessitates absence from a department or bunk, or which affects your ability to perform to full capacity. All accidents occurring at camp, whether while on duty or not, should be reported to the nursing staff, no matter how minor.
Any work-related accidents are covered by Worker's Compensation Insurance, but there is no camp insurance to cover illness. If you require any medication following your visit with the medical staff, you may call the prescription into the pharmacy and give them a credit card, in which case camp will collect the prescription for you at its earliest convenience. Camp is not responsible for the cost of treatment prescribed or for finding out the cost prior to the prescription being filled. If you do not wish to give a credit card over the phone to the pharmacy, then it is your responsibility to take and collect the prescription yourself on your time off.
If you are sick, the first day away from duties is given as a sick day. Any subsequent days absent are counted as days off and thus subtracted from your days off allowed. If you take a sick day, or any sick time, you must inform the nursing staff.
What are the Child Abuse Policies?
Child abuse has been in the spotlight of public attention for many years. We have all become much more sensitized to the potential occurrence and serious implications of such at any day or resident camp.
Child abuse is legally and morally wrong. We are required to report any alleged physical or sexual abuse that takes place at camp to the State Child Protective Services within 24 hours after the allegation is made known. Any allegation of abuse prior to a camper’s arrival at camp is to be reported within 8 hours and followed by a written report within 72 hours (Maine Law: 22MRSA 4011-4015).
In a camp setting, physical abuse is most likely to happen when a counselor is disciplining a rebellious or unruly camper. Anything done to inflict pain while disciplining a camper is considered child abuse.
Guidelines for the Discipline of Children
• Counselors may NOT, under any circumstances, hit a child.
• Counselors may not use abusive or derogatory language with campers.
• A staff member who encounters a particularly difficult child must seek the help of supervisory or administrative staff.
• In dealings with campers, counselors should strive to respond, as opposed to reacting, to children.
The physical size and strength of staff members necessitate that you use discretion and restraint in all physical contact activities with campers. Games that encourage intense competitive activities with physical contact that potentially could cause injury should be stopped or supervised very closely by nonparticipating staff members.
Child Sexual Abuse
We cannot be too careful in the area of sexual abuse. Even the appearance of a wrong, or a false allegation, can cause irreparable damage to the reputation of the accused staff member and the camp. Therefore, all staff members must be very cautious in order to avoid doing anything that could be interpreted as sexual abuse.
Child sexual abuse includes but is not limited to, any contact or interaction between a child and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation of the adult or of a third person. The behavior may or may not involve touching. Sexual behavior between a child and an adult is always considered forced, whether or not the child has consented.
Affectionate touch and the warm feelings it brings is an important factor in helping a child grow into a loving and peaceful adult. However, staff and volunteers need to be sensitive to each person’s need for personal space (i.e., not everyone wants to be hugged). Our camp encourages appropriate touch; however, at the same time, prohibits inappropriate touch or other means of sexually exploiting children.
Procedures for Child-Abuse Complaints:
• Any actions you observe or that may be disclosed, that are not acceptable behavior according to the above guidelines, should be reported as soon as possible to the Camp Director.
• The Camp Director will notify the appropriate authorities and parents.
• The Camp Director will take appropriate internal action.
In the event the reported incident(s) involve a program volunteer or employed staff, the Director will, without exception, suspend the volunteer or staff person from the camp. The parents or legal guardians of the child(ren) involved in the alleged incident will be promptly notified in accordance with the directions of the relevant state or local agency.
Whether the incident or alleged offense takes place on or off camp property, it will be considered job-related (because of the youth-involved nature of the camp). Reinstatement of the employed staff person will occur only after all allegations have been cleared to the satisfaction of the Director. All camp staff and volunteers must be sensitive to the need for confidentiality in the handling of this information and, therefore, should only discuss the incident with the Director.
Specific Guidelines for Camper-Staff Contact and Interactions:
These lists are here to provide guidelines but are not exhaustive and counselors must always use their best judgment.
Guidelines for Camper-Counselor Contact
• Touch should be on the hand, shoulder, or upper back.
• Never against a child’s will (unless in the case of the clear and present danger of the child).
• Never against a child’s discomfort, whether expressed verbally or nonverbally.
• In the company of other people.
• Never when it would have the effect of over-stimulating the child.
• Never in a place on a child’s body that is normally covered by a bathing suit, unless for a clear medical necessity and, then, only with supervision from another adult.
Specific Camp North Star Rules regarding the Interaction between Staff and Children
• There is no ‘hazing’ of campers by campers or counselors. Campers will not be subjected to any type of ‘initiation rights’.
• Younger children should be encouraged to change their own clothes as much as possible.
• Campers will never be alone with a counselor in their cabin.
• A staff member will never share a bed or sleeping bag with a camper.
• Counselors will set limits with children who ‘cling’ or hang on them
• Counselors will not give back rubs
• Tickling or teasing a camper to the point where that camper is out of control is unacceptable
• Pillow fights or wrestling matches and the like can become over-stimulating in short order and need to be limited and carefully supervised.
• Overnight trips need a minimum of two adult leaders and there needs to be at least one counselor from the same side of camp as the campers.
• Counselors having romantic/physical relations on property and overnight trips are grounds for dismissal. The romantic lives of counselors are not, under any circumstances, shared with campers.
• Counselors must stay out of cabins other than their own unless on specific camp business.
• Whatever is done with campers should be done in broad daylight, with company.
Child abuse is legally and morally wrong. We are required to report any alleged physical or sexual abuse that takes place at camp to the State Child Protective Services within 24 hours after the allegation is made known. Any allegation of abuse prior to a camper’s arrival at camp is to be reported within 8 hours and followed by a written report within 72 hours (Maine Law: 22MRSA 4011-4015).
In a camp setting, physical abuse is most likely to happen when a counselor is disciplining a rebellious or unruly camper. Anything done to inflict pain while disciplining a camper is considered child abuse.
Guidelines for the Discipline of Children
• Counselors may NOT, under any circumstances, hit a child.
• Counselors may not use abusive or derogatory language with campers.
• A staff member who encounters a particularly difficult child must seek the help of supervisory or administrative staff.
• In dealings with campers, counselors should strive to respond, as opposed to reacting, to children.
The physical size and strength of staff members necessitate that you use discretion and restraint in all physical contact activities with campers. Games that encourage intense competitive activities with physical contact that potentially could cause injury should be stopped or supervised very closely by nonparticipating staff members.
Child Sexual Abuse
We cannot be too careful in the area of sexual abuse. Even the appearance of a wrong, or a false allegation, can cause irreparable damage to the reputation of the accused staff member and the camp. Therefore, all staff members must be very cautious in order to avoid doing anything that could be interpreted as sexual abuse.
Child sexual abuse includes but is not limited to, any contact or interaction between a child and an adult when the child is being used for the sexual stimulation of the adult or of a third person. The behavior may or may not involve touching. Sexual behavior between a child and an adult is always considered forced, whether or not the child has consented.
Affectionate touch and the warm feelings it brings is an important factor in helping a child grow into a loving and peaceful adult. However, staff and volunteers need to be sensitive to each person’s need for personal space (i.e., not everyone wants to be hugged). Our camp encourages appropriate touch; however, at the same time, prohibits inappropriate touch or other means of sexually exploiting children.
Procedures for Child-Abuse Complaints:
• Any actions you observe or that may be disclosed, that are not acceptable behavior according to the above guidelines, should be reported as soon as possible to the Camp Director.
• The Camp Director will notify the appropriate authorities and parents.
• The Camp Director will take appropriate internal action.
In the event the reported incident(s) involve a program volunteer or employed staff, the Director will, without exception, suspend the volunteer or staff person from the camp. The parents or legal guardians of the child(ren) involved in the alleged incident will be promptly notified in accordance with the directions of the relevant state or local agency.
Whether the incident or alleged offense takes place on or off camp property, it will be considered job-related (because of the youth-involved nature of the camp). Reinstatement of the employed staff person will occur only after all allegations have been cleared to the satisfaction of the Director. All camp staff and volunteers must be sensitive to the need for confidentiality in the handling of this information and, therefore, should only discuss the incident with the Director.
Specific Guidelines for Camper-Staff Contact and Interactions:
These lists are here to provide guidelines but are not exhaustive and counselors must always use their best judgment.
Guidelines for Camper-Counselor Contact
• Touch should be on the hand, shoulder, or upper back.
• Never against a child’s will (unless in the case of the clear and present danger of the child).
• Never against a child’s discomfort, whether expressed verbally or nonverbally.
• In the company of other people.
• Never when it would have the effect of over-stimulating the child.
• Never in a place on a child’s body that is normally covered by a bathing suit, unless for a clear medical necessity and, then, only with supervision from another adult.
Specific Camp North Star Rules regarding the Interaction between Staff and Children
• There is no ‘hazing’ of campers by campers or counselors. Campers will not be subjected to any type of ‘initiation rights’.
• Younger children should be encouraged to change their own clothes as much as possible.
• Campers will never be alone with a counselor in their cabin.
• A staff member will never share a bed or sleeping bag with a camper.
• Counselors will set limits with children who ‘cling’ or hang on them
• Counselors will not give back rubs
• Tickling or teasing a camper to the point where that camper is out of control is unacceptable
• Pillow fights or wrestling matches and the like can become over-stimulating in short order and need to be limited and carefully supervised.
• Overnight trips need a minimum of two adult leaders and there needs to be at least one counselor from the same side of camp as the campers.
• Counselors having romantic/physical relations on property and overnight trips are grounds for dismissal. The romantic lives of counselors are not, under any circumstances, shared with campers.
• Counselors must stay out of cabins other than their own unless on specific camp business.
• Whatever is done with campers should be done in broad daylight, with company.
What is the Behavior Management Policy?
Camp North Star advocates a positive guidance and discipline policy with an emphasis on positive reinforcement, redirection, prevention, and the development of self-discipline. Camp rules are established for safety and to ensure that we have a common standard of behavior.
Staff members need to show the campers that we see the need for following the rules ourselves, and not contradict the established guidelines. Corrective discipline must be a creative, caring effort on the part of the counselor, and it must be seen as such by the camper.
Common reasons for surface behavior problems:
• A desire for recognition/attention: it may be better to be infamous than unknown
• Frustration: unsatisfied needs or desires often cause children to “lash out”
• Home missing: being scared and nervous often causes frustration
• Illness/exhaustion: no one is at their best when they are sick or tired
• Conflict with another camper/staff: this often causes people to become defensive
• Outside conflicts: problems with family, friends, etc., can follow campers to camp
• Established behavior patterns: lessons learned at home won’t be forgotten at camp
Important Discipline Guidelines:
• Always suggest positive alternatives to unacceptable behavior before it gets out of control.
• Discuss rules with campers, identify out-of-bounds areas, and the possible consequences of breaking any rule.
• Enforce all rules at all times, without malice, and be consistent in application.
• Inform a director of all disciplinary measures.
Consequences may include:
• Quiet time
• Restriction from activity, or restriction to adult supervision
• Extra duties during cabin cleanup, cleaning a table at meals, etc.
• Conference with the director, or parent and director
• Removal from the camp
Consequences may never include:
• Depriving a camper of sleep, food, or restroom privileges.
• Placing a camper alone without supervision
• Subjecting a camper to ridicule, shaming, threat, corporal punishment (i.e., striking, biting, kicking, squeezing), washing out the mouth, or physical exercise or restraint.
Staff members need to show the campers that we see the need for following the rules ourselves, and not contradict the established guidelines. Corrective discipline must be a creative, caring effort on the part of the counselor, and it must be seen as such by the camper.
Common reasons for surface behavior problems:
• A desire for recognition/attention: it may be better to be infamous than unknown
• Frustration: unsatisfied needs or desires often cause children to “lash out”
• Home missing: being scared and nervous often causes frustration
• Illness/exhaustion: no one is at their best when they are sick or tired
• Conflict with another camper/staff: this often causes people to become defensive
• Outside conflicts: problems with family, friends, etc., can follow campers to camp
• Established behavior patterns: lessons learned at home won’t be forgotten at camp
Important Discipline Guidelines:
• Always suggest positive alternatives to unacceptable behavior before it gets out of control.
• Discuss rules with campers, identify out-of-bounds areas, and the possible consequences of breaking any rule.
• Enforce all rules at all times, without malice, and be consistent in application.
• Inform a director of all disciplinary measures.
Consequences may include:
• Quiet time
• Restriction from activity, or restriction to adult supervision
• Extra duties during cabin cleanup, cleaning a table at meals, etc.
• Conference with the director, or parent and director
• Removal from the camp
Consequences may never include:
• Depriving a camper of sleep, food, or restroom privileges.
• Placing a camper alone without supervision
• Subjecting a camper to ridicule, shaming, threat, corporal punishment (i.e., striking, biting, kicking, squeezing), washing out the mouth, or physical exercise or restraint.
What is the Harassment Policy?
Camp North Star is committed to a workplace free from all types of harassment, including sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is a violation of Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Civil Rights Act of 1991, and state discrimination laws. The Administration will not tolerate such misconduct. Each staff member has signed their acknowledgment of this policy with their employment contract. This policy applies to all employees, as well as to campers and others who come in contact with the Camp.
Reprisals against those who file complaints under this policy will not be tolerated. Violators of this policy will be subject to discipline up to, and including discharge. Any Camp official who receives a complaint and does not act on it under the procedures of this policy also will be subject to discipline, including dismissal. Occasional compliments of a socially acceptable manner or statements or acts that are acceptable to all elements of society are not sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as statements or acts that are offensive to a reasonable person.
Sexual Harassment: includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal/physical contact of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission to such conduct is either implied or stated to be a term or condition of employment or a factor in the evaluation of the employee’s performance, promotability, or any other component of employment.
2. Such conduct interferes, either directly or indirectly, with an employee’s work performance by creating a hostile, offensive, or intimidating environment.
Sexual harassment may include:
• unsolicited verbal sexual comments
• subtle pressure for sexual activity
• sexist remarks about a person’s body or sexual activities
• patting, pinching, or unnecessary touching
• demanding sexual favors, accompanied by implied or overt threats involving one’s employment, compensation, promotion, or job assignment
• physical assault
• displaying or passing around posters, pictures, screen savers, e-mail, or other printed materials in the workplace which might be sexual or otherwise offensive to other employees
• making jokes, insults, or comments in the presence of others who may find it offensive
The sexual harassment policy includes all eight of the above statements that occur between non-supervisory employees as well as those who are employed as administrative staff/directors.
Visual Harassment: staring or ogling is offensive behavior. It also includes visual materials that may be offensive, such as posters, pictures, pin-ups, computer graphics, games, etc.
Verbal Harassment: is sexually vulgar language, remarks about an individual’s physical anatomy, derogatory comments about gender, distribution of written or graphic sexual material, sexually-oriented magazines/posters, display of nude pictures, other words, or depictions of a sexual nature.
Physical Harassment: Physical harassment is touching in a sexual manner or invading personal privacy, especially the intentional touching of breasts and genital areas or buttocks, or threats to take such actions.
Because North Star takes allegations of sexual harassment seriously, Camp will respond promptly to complaints of sexual harassment, and where it is determined that such inappropriate behavior has occurred, Camp will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and impose such corrective action as is necessary including, but not limited to, disciplinary action or termination.
Reprisals against those who file complaints under this policy will not be tolerated. Violators of this policy will be subject to discipline up to, and including discharge. Any Camp official who receives a complaint and does not act on it under the procedures of this policy also will be subject to discipline, including dismissal. Occasional compliments of a socially acceptable manner or statements or acts that are acceptable to all elements of society are not sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as statements or acts that are offensive to a reasonable person.
Sexual Harassment: includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or verbal/physical contact of a sexual nature when:
1. Submission to such conduct is either implied or stated to be a term or condition of employment or a factor in the evaluation of the employee’s performance, promotability, or any other component of employment.
2. Such conduct interferes, either directly or indirectly, with an employee’s work performance by creating a hostile, offensive, or intimidating environment.
Sexual harassment may include:
• unsolicited verbal sexual comments
• subtle pressure for sexual activity
• sexist remarks about a person’s body or sexual activities
• patting, pinching, or unnecessary touching
• demanding sexual favors, accompanied by implied or overt threats involving one’s employment, compensation, promotion, or job assignment
• physical assault
• displaying or passing around posters, pictures, screen savers, e-mail, or other printed materials in the workplace which might be sexual or otherwise offensive to other employees
• making jokes, insults, or comments in the presence of others who may find it offensive
The sexual harassment policy includes all eight of the above statements that occur between non-supervisory employees as well as those who are employed as administrative staff/directors.
Visual Harassment: staring or ogling is offensive behavior. It also includes visual materials that may be offensive, such as posters, pictures, pin-ups, computer graphics, games, etc.
Verbal Harassment: is sexually vulgar language, remarks about an individual’s physical anatomy, derogatory comments about gender, distribution of written or graphic sexual material, sexually-oriented magazines/posters, display of nude pictures, other words, or depictions of a sexual nature.
Physical Harassment: Physical harassment is touching in a sexual manner or invading personal privacy, especially the intentional touching of breasts and genital areas or buttocks, or threats to take such actions.
Because North Star takes allegations of sexual harassment seriously, Camp will respond promptly to complaints of sexual harassment, and where it is determined that such inappropriate behavior has occurred, Camp will act promptly to eliminate the conduct and impose such corrective action as is necessary including, but not limited to, disciplinary action or termination.
What is the procedure if a staff member perceives sexual harassment?
If any Staff Member perceives sexual harassment, they should follow this procedure:
Speak to Steven or Brooke Bernstein, Directors of Camp North Star. Make it clear to the harasser that you do not approve of their behavior or comments, and ask that they stop immediately. Studies have shown that in the majority of cases, the harasser was unaware that his or her conduct was offensive.
If the undesired behavior continues, keep a written record of the behavior, including dates, times, details, and witnesses.
Steven and/or Brooke will promptly conduct an investigation of the charges, exerting their best efforts to maintain the complainant’s confidentiality. Depending on the evidence, Steven and/or Brooke, will discuss the complaint with the Staff Member(s). If a pattern of frequent offensive behavior is verified, offenders will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, immediate termination.
There will be no retaliatory action taken against an employee who, in good faith, makes a report of sexual harassment.
If at any time during the summer, you feel that you have been discriminated against or received any form of sexual harassment, then contact any member of the Camp North Star Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure Committee:
Steven Bernstein, Committee President, Camp Director
Brooke Bernstein, Committee Vice-President, Camp Director
Em Bruce, Committee Secretary, Assistant Director
There are two alternate members who will serve as a substitute if a member of the committee is cited as allegedly committing an act of harassment, has a conflict, or is otherwise unavailable.
Stefanie Bock, Board Member Alternate, Arts Director
Maggie Habour, Board Member Alternate, Office Manager
Harassment By Others
Administration policy prohibits sexual harassment from any source. The above procedure will be followed in cases of alleged harassment by parents, suppliers, or other non-employees. If the investigation substantiates the charge, the Director/Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure Committee President will take prompt remedial action. Possible remedial steps range from letters of objection to the accused to refuse to continue the business relationship. Individuals filing complaints against non-employees should be aware of the limits on the camp’s ability to control the behavior of non-employees.
Other Types Of Harassment
The above-stated policy applies to all protected groups, including age, race, religion, national origin, color, gender identification, veteran status, and disability. Procedures for investigating such complaints will be identical to those used in an investigation of sexual harassment charges.
Speak to Steven or Brooke Bernstein, Directors of Camp North Star. Make it clear to the harasser that you do not approve of their behavior or comments, and ask that they stop immediately. Studies have shown that in the majority of cases, the harasser was unaware that his or her conduct was offensive.
If the undesired behavior continues, keep a written record of the behavior, including dates, times, details, and witnesses.
Steven and/or Brooke will promptly conduct an investigation of the charges, exerting their best efforts to maintain the complainant’s confidentiality. Depending on the evidence, Steven and/or Brooke, will discuss the complaint with the Staff Member(s). If a pattern of frequent offensive behavior is verified, offenders will be subject to disciplinary action including, but not limited to, immediate termination.
There will be no retaliatory action taken against an employee who, in good faith, makes a report of sexual harassment.
If at any time during the summer, you feel that you have been discriminated against or received any form of sexual harassment, then contact any member of the Camp North Star Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure Committee:
Steven Bernstein, Committee President, Camp Director
Brooke Bernstein, Committee Vice-President, Camp Director
Em Bruce, Committee Secretary, Assistant Director
There are two alternate members who will serve as a substitute if a member of the committee is cited as allegedly committing an act of harassment, has a conflict, or is otherwise unavailable.
Stefanie Bock, Board Member Alternate, Arts Director
Maggie Habour, Board Member Alternate, Office Manager
Harassment By Others
Administration policy prohibits sexual harassment from any source. The above procedure will be followed in cases of alleged harassment by parents, suppliers, or other non-employees. If the investigation substantiates the charge, the Director/Sexual Harassment Grievance Procedure Committee President will take prompt remedial action. Possible remedial steps range from letters of objection to the accused to refuse to continue the business relationship. Individuals filing complaints against non-employees should be aware of the limits on the camp’s ability to control the behavior of non-employees.
Other Types Of Harassment
The above-stated policy applies to all protected groups, including age, race, religion, national origin, color, gender identification, veteran status, and disability. Procedures for investigating such complaints will be identical to those used in an investigation of sexual harassment charges.
What is the policy on Supervisor to Subordinate Relationships and the overall policy on relationships?
The intent of this policy is to prevent relationships that may present an actual, potential, or perceived conflict of interest. Potential conflicts may arise through hiring and working with relatives or people in close personal relationships.
Intimate or romantic relationships between a Director OR Supervisor and a subordinate are prohibited. This is to ensure that these relationships do not create situations where:
• Staff members, Supervisors, or Directors receive benefits or encounter detriment in the workplace because of a close personal or family relationship
• Questions about confidentiality, independence, or conflicts of interest arise, or real or perceived nepotism and/or favoritism result
At no time may a Director, Supervisor, or Staff member have supervisory influence (actual or perceived) over the assignments, compensation, performance evaluations, or promotion of a Director, Supervisor, or Staff member with whom they have a family or close personal relationship.
Relationships
An expression of a close interpersonal relationship between staff during the camping day is in bad taste and is not permitted. Campers emulate staff, and our job is to place our campers in the most relaxed emotional and psychological environment possible. Physical and/or romantic contact between staff is not permitted in the cabins, or anywhere else on camp property.
Staff members are prohibited from having romantic, social, and/or physical relationships with campers, including those in training roles—CITs. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
Intimate or romantic relationships between a Director OR Supervisor and a subordinate are prohibited. This is to ensure that these relationships do not create situations where:
• Staff members, Supervisors, or Directors receive benefits or encounter detriment in the workplace because of a close personal or family relationship
• Questions about confidentiality, independence, or conflicts of interest arise, or real or perceived nepotism and/or favoritism result
At no time may a Director, Supervisor, or Staff member have supervisory influence (actual or perceived) over the assignments, compensation, performance evaluations, or promotion of a Director, Supervisor, or Staff member with whom they have a family or close personal relationship.
Relationships
An expression of a close interpersonal relationship between staff during the camping day is in bad taste and is not permitted. Campers emulate staff, and our job is to place our campers in the most relaxed emotional and psychological environment possible. Physical and/or romantic contact between staff is not permitted in the cabins, or anywhere else on camp property.
Staff members are prohibited from having romantic, social, and/or physical relationships with campers, including those in training roles—CITs. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
What is the Technology Policy?
Technology
Camp North Star is a technology-free camp. The only electronic device permitted in the cabin is a basic mp3 player with no internet or video capabilities. Any type of "Smart Watch" is not permitted to be worn while working.
Staff is permitted to use their phones and computers in the Staff Lounge during their time off. Personal calls, emails, and Internet are to be used on assigned time off only. Office phones or office computers are not for personal use.
All cell phones must be kept in the counselor's lockboxes. Cell phones may never be in camper cabins.
Phone calls that come into the Camp Office for staff members will have a message taken. The message will be delivered to that staff person by a director.
Camp North Star does not permit staff to bring electrical appliances (TVs, VCRs, heaters). If you chose to bring any personal electronics to camp, you are not allowed to keep them in your cabin. You must keep them in the Staff Lounge at your own risk. Camp North Star is not responsible for such personal items.
Staff is not permitted to take pictures of campers using their personal cell phone or digital camera, and post/share those pictures online.
Social Media and the Internet
The North Star community extends well beyond the borders of the camp property, and the days of the summer. Close friendships amongst the staff are part of the joy of working at camp. With Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, text messages, Zoom, etc., it is easier than ever to keep in touch with your camp friends, either in the next town over or around the world.
You have at least two different worlds to deal with. First, there is your social world at school and home. Then there is your camp world where you are seen as a trusted child caregiver, a leader, and a role model; you help define our camp community. Realize and understand that when you post, text, or share photos and videos online, not everyone takes them in the context you intended. When posting, you are communicating with the North Star family (staff, parents, and even campers) who are from different generations, backgrounds, and values. Profanity, inside jokes, references to partying, sexual slang, put-downs, and editing digital photos all create an impression of you, and of camp.
To protect your reputation and camp’s we ask you to join us in understanding the possible negative implications of the Internet as it relates to our goals at Camp.
Please follow these steps:
• Set Privacy Settings so that only friends can view your content.
• Only use clean profile pictures (assume your campers’ family will be looking at it because they might be).
• Do not post pictures that include campers.
• If someone tags you in a picture that is more than “PG” please un-tag yourself.
• DO NOT friend, follow, or add campers. And if you have, please unfriend them immediately. This includes after the camp season.
• DO NOT text, call, or message campers directly. Contact camp and we will contact their parents first. This includes after the camp season.
If you are employed, especially working with children, you have to expect that what you share with others can quickly become a part of your real-world character reference - fair or unfair - and it could disqualify you from doing this job and others. Most smart employers now check out their potential and hired staff online before hiring them. With a few clicks, you can easily ensure your real-world actions don’t affect your camp experience.
Camp North Star is a technology-free camp. The only electronic device permitted in the cabin is a basic mp3 player with no internet or video capabilities. Any type of "Smart Watch" is not permitted to be worn while working.
Staff is permitted to use their phones and computers in the Staff Lounge during their time off. Personal calls, emails, and Internet are to be used on assigned time off only. Office phones or office computers are not for personal use.
All cell phones must be kept in the counselor's lockboxes. Cell phones may never be in camper cabins.
Phone calls that come into the Camp Office for staff members will have a message taken. The message will be delivered to that staff person by a director.
Camp North Star does not permit staff to bring electrical appliances (TVs, VCRs, heaters). If you chose to bring any personal electronics to camp, you are not allowed to keep them in your cabin. You must keep them in the Staff Lounge at your own risk. Camp North Star is not responsible for such personal items.
Staff is not permitted to take pictures of campers using their personal cell phone or digital camera, and post/share those pictures online.
Social Media and the Internet
The North Star community extends well beyond the borders of the camp property, and the days of the summer. Close friendships amongst the staff are part of the joy of working at camp. With Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, text messages, Zoom, etc., it is easier than ever to keep in touch with your camp friends, either in the next town over or around the world.
You have at least two different worlds to deal with. First, there is your social world at school and home. Then there is your camp world where you are seen as a trusted child caregiver, a leader, and a role model; you help define our camp community. Realize and understand that when you post, text, or share photos and videos online, not everyone takes them in the context you intended. When posting, you are communicating with the North Star family (staff, parents, and even campers) who are from different generations, backgrounds, and values. Profanity, inside jokes, references to partying, sexual slang, put-downs, and editing digital photos all create an impression of you, and of camp.
To protect your reputation and camp’s we ask you to join us in understanding the possible negative implications of the Internet as it relates to our goals at Camp.
Please follow these steps:
• Set Privacy Settings so that only friends can view your content.
• Only use clean profile pictures (assume your campers’ family will be looking at it because they might be).
• Do not post pictures that include campers.
• If someone tags you in a picture that is more than “PG” please un-tag yourself.
• DO NOT friend, follow, or add campers. And if you have, please unfriend them immediately. This includes after the camp season.
• DO NOT text, call, or message campers directly. Contact camp and we will contact their parents first. This includes after the camp season.
If you are employed, especially working with children, you have to expect that what you share with others can quickly become a part of your real-world character reference - fair or unfair - and it could disqualify you from doing this job and others. Most smart employers now check out their potential and hired staff online before hiring them. With a few clicks, you can easily ensure your real-world actions don’t affect your camp experience.
What are the Drug, Alcohol, Smoking, and Gun Policies?
Alcohol Policy: There are absolutely no alcoholic beverages or illegal drugs allowed on camp property, or in camp equipment or vehicles, or in personal vehicles.
No staff shall work while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. We strictly prohibit staff from consuming alcohol or drugs during their free time and then participating in any interaction with other staff or campers. Any staff member under the influence of drugs or alcohol at camp or during any camp activity is subject to immediate dismissal.
Drug Policy: Camp North Star expects all employees to refrain from using any illegal drugs and marijuana, in any form, for the entirety of their employment, including any substance, legal or illegal, taken with the intent of inducing a state of intoxication. This includes days off and free time spent away from camp. Marijuana, in any form, is not permitted on camp property, in camp equipment or vehicles, or in personal vehicles. There is no latitude to this rule; the course of action will be immediate dismissal of those involved. This applies to both campers and staff. This includes any form of marijuana that may be legal outside of camp and/or in other parts of Maine. Camp North Star is your workplace, and therefore, no marijuana, or any similar drug, legal or otherwise, is permitted at camp. Incidents at camp involving personal injury or property damage may result in involuntary chemical drug testing of the staff involved.
Smoking Policy: Smoking of any kind, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, vaping, e-cigarettes, and JUULing, is not permitted at any time, anywhere on camp property, in camp equipment or vehicles, or in personal vehicles. This includes trips away from camp and overnights. Smoking includes inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, or pipe, or any other lighted or heated tobacco, plant, or synthetic product intended for inhalation, whether natural or synthetic, in any manner or in any form.
These policies have been expanded and strengthened to protect everyone at Camp North Star. Due to changing times and increased liability exposure, it is absolutely essential that these rules be enforced. Do not allow yourself to be coerced by other staff members who may choose to interpret the rules differently. No matter how long your tenure at camp or your position with us – if you break the rules, you will be dismissed immediately.
Drug and alcohol laws in Maine: Violation of Federal and State laws can lead to heavy fines and/or imprisonment. The legal drinking age in Maine is 21. This is the law and it does not matter if the drinking age in your state/country is different. You are bound by the law in Maine while you are at camp. Most places in Maine require a Maine State Driver’s License or a Maine State ID card as proof of being 21 or older. Out of State Driver’s Licenses and International Passports are usually accepted. Please note that if you are caught using a fake ID in a bar/restaurant it will be confiscated from you and you will be subject to a court appearance and will incur a fine, as well as face disciplinary action deemed appropriate by Camp North Star. Furnishing liquor to a minor (anyone under 21) or allowing them to consume alcohol while under your supervision will result in fines of up to $2,000 and one year in jail. Any minor who is found to be in possession of alcohol will be fined between $100-$300 on the first offense, $200-$500 on the second offense, and $500 on the third and subsequent offenses. (Note: penalties are subject to change.)
Maine state drunk driving law: If you are the operator of a motor vehicle and are driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% by weight, you are guilty of a criminal offense of operating under the influence (OUI). You will, in most instances, be promptly arrested and taken to jail. Following your arrest and based solely on the police report and a blood alcohol content (BAC) test result, the Secretary of State will immediately suspend your license. This suspension takes place prior to any court appearance. The BAC can be determined by either a breath test or blood test, the results of which may be used in evidence in court and are fully accepted in all courts as accurate. If you refuse to take such a test, your driver's license will be immediately suspended.
It is against the law to drink any alcohol, or non-alcoholic beer, in a vehicle. That means no open bottles/cans in a vehicle at all. This applies to both drivers and passengers and should be strictly adhered to by all. Maine Gun Laws: An employee may not bring a firearm into camp without the permission of Steven Bernstein except as provided by Maine Law 26 MRSA Sec. 600(1).
Searches: It may be required of senior staff to conduct an investigation, which can include the inspection of property belonging to a camper or staff member. All staff and campers are required to cooperate with such investigations being residents of our camp community. Failure to do so may be considered an admission of guilt. Directors are permitted to conduct searches only with permission from the Camp Director.
Drug Policy: Camp North Star expects all employees to refrain from using any illegal drugs and marijuana, in any form, for the entirety of their employment, including any substance, legal or illegal, taken with the intent of inducing a state of intoxication. This includes days off and free time spent away from camp. Marijuana, in any form, is not permitted on camp property, in camp equipment or vehicles, or in personal vehicles. There is no latitude to this rule; the course of action will be immediate dismissal of those involved. This applies to both campers and staff. This includes any form of marijuana that may be legal outside of camp and/or in other parts of Maine. Camp North Star is your workplace, and therefore, no marijuana, or any similar drug, legal or otherwise, is permitted at camp. Incidents at camp involving personal injury or property damage may result in involuntary chemical drug testing of the staff involved.
Smoking Policy: Smoking of any kind, including but not limited to cigarettes, cigars, vaping, e-cigarettes, and JUULing, is not permitted at any time, anywhere on camp property, in camp equipment or vehicles, or in personal vehicles. This includes trips away from camp and overnights. Smoking includes inhaling, exhaling, burning, or carrying any lighted or heated cigar, cigarette, or pipe, or any other lighted or heated tobacco, plant, or synthetic product intended for inhalation, whether natural or synthetic, in any manner or in any form.
These policies have been expanded and strengthened to protect everyone at Camp North Star. Due to changing times and increased liability exposure, it is absolutely essential that these rules be enforced. Do not allow yourself to be coerced by other staff members who may choose to interpret the rules differently. No matter how long your tenure at camp or your position with us – if you break the rules, you will be dismissed immediately.
Drug and alcohol laws in Maine: Violation of Federal and State laws can lead to heavy fines and/or imprisonment. The legal drinking age in Maine is 21. This is the law and it does not matter if the drinking age in your state/country is different. You are bound by the law in Maine while you are at camp. Most places in Maine require a Maine State Driver’s License or a Maine State ID card as proof of being 21 or older. Out of State Driver’s Licenses and International Passports are usually accepted. Please note that if you are caught using a fake ID in a bar/restaurant it will be confiscated from you and you will be subject to a court appearance and will incur a fine, as well as face disciplinary action deemed appropriate by Camp North Star. Furnishing liquor to a minor (anyone under 21) or allowing them to consume alcohol while under your supervision will result in fines of up to $2,000 and one year in jail. Any minor who is found to be in possession of alcohol will be fined between $100-$300 on the first offense, $200-$500 on the second offense, and $500 on the third and subsequent offenses. (Note: penalties are subject to change.)
Maine state drunk driving law: If you are the operator of a motor vehicle and are driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% by weight, you are guilty of a criminal offense of operating under the influence (OUI). You will, in most instances, be promptly arrested and taken to jail. Following your arrest and based solely on the police report and a blood alcohol content (BAC) test result, the Secretary of State will immediately suspend your license. This suspension takes place prior to any court appearance. The BAC can be determined by either a breath test or blood test, the results of which may be used in evidence in court and are fully accepted in all courts as accurate. If you refuse to take such a test, your driver's license will be immediately suspended.
It is against the law to drink any alcohol, or non-alcoholic beer, in a vehicle. That means no open bottles/cans in a vehicle at all. This applies to both drivers and passengers and should be strictly adhered to by all. Maine Gun Laws: An employee may not bring a firearm into camp without the permission of Steven Bernstein except as provided by Maine Law 26 MRSA Sec. 600(1).
Searches: It may be required of senior staff to conduct an investigation, which can include the inspection of property belonging to a camper or staff member. All staff and campers are required to cooperate with such investigations being residents of our camp community. Failure to do so may be considered an admission of guilt. Directors are permitted to conduct searches only with permission from the Camp Director.
What are the behavior expectations for counselors?
Appropriate Language: Profanity is unnecessary and unacceptable by campers and staff. The use of profanity by campers must be dealt with in a manner appropriate to the circumstances.
Dress Code: Camp staff members are first and foremost role models for the children in our summer camp program. To ensure that Camp North Star’s values are reflected in our daily interactions, we ask that the following dress code be upheld. The following are clothing requirements for camp:
• We do not allow skimpy, excessively short, or see-through clothing, or anything with offensive or suggestive writing/logos, etc. This also applies to costumes for campfires, talent shows, etc. You should always dress appropriately around campers.
• Clothing and hats may not have alcohol, drugs, tobacco, sexual, or otherwise inappropriate messages on them.
• Closed-toed shoes MUST be worn each day. Sandals with a secured backing are only permitted while at Waterfront Activities.
• Shirts should be worn at all times and should cover midriff areas.
• Shorts or long pants should be worn at camp. Clean and hemmed shorts are required on opening and closing days of every session.
• Staff Shirts (provided) are to be worn on the first and last day of every session and all out-of-camp trips, or as instructed by the camp’s management.
• Appropriate bathing suits must be worn at the waterfronts. Bathing suits must be either a full coverage one-piece bathing suit and/or appropriate length swim trunks. Just as with clothing, bathing suits may not be excessively small, skimpy, or see-through, nor may they have any inappropriate messages or logos on them.
Working with Campers’ Confidentiality: During the course of your employment, you may have access to certain camp information, including camper information, marketing/business practices, and/or mailing lists that are considered confidential and property of camp. We require our staff to hold such information in confidence and not disclose any such information to persons outside of camp. Any such information should only be used for the purpose of carrying out your employment for the camp and should not be used or exploited for your own benefit. These obligations continue after your period of employment.
Change in Assignment and Additional Responsibilities: Occasionally, it becomes necessary to change staff assignments or responsibilities as defined on the staff member’s employment agreement. While such changes will be held to a minimum, staff members are expected to recognize the importance of flexibility in staffing a camp. Every effort will be taken to match the needs of camp with the needs of the staff member. Consultation between a director and the affected staff member will precede any contemplated change in assignment.
Trips: Staff members are representatives of Camp North Star and should act in a manner consistent with the mission and objectives of camp at all times. They will be held strictly accountable for their actions on and off the property.
Visitors: Camp North Star does not allow visitors during the camp season. Steven or Brooke Bernstein must approve any persons wishing to visit camp before they arrive on camp property.
Animals: staff members are not allowed to have pets at camp. Any exceptions must be cleared with the Directors.
Use of Power Tools: only trained maintenance personnel may operate power tools.
Dress Code: Camp staff members are first and foremost role models for the children in our summer camp program. To ensure that Camp North Star’s values are reflected in our daily interactions, we ask that the following dress code be upheld. The following are clothing requirements for camp:
• We do not allow skimpy, excessively short, or see-through clothing, or anything with offensive or suggestive writing/logos, etc. This also applies to costumes for campfires, talent shows, etc. You should always dress appropriately around campers.
• Clothing and hats may not have alcohol, drugs, tobacco, sexual, or otherwise inappropriate messages on them.
• Closed-toed shoes MUST be worn each day. Sandals with a secured backing are only permitted while at Waterfront Activities.
• Shirts should be worn at all times and should cover midriff areas.
• Shorts or long pants should be worn at camp. Clean and hemmed shorts are required on opening and closing days of every session.
• Staff Shirts (provided) are to be worn on the first and last day of every session and all out-of-camp trips, or as instructed by the camp’s management.
• Appropriate bathing suits must be worn at the waterfronts. Bathing suits must be either a full coverage one-piece bathing suit and/or appropriate length swim trunks. Just as with clothing, bathing suits may not be excessively small, skimpy, or see-through, nor may they have any inappropriate messages or logos on them.
Working with Campers’ Confidentiality: During the course of your employment, you may have access to certain camp information, including camper information, marketing/business practices, and/or mailing lists that are considered confidential and property of camp. We require our staff to hold such information in confidence and not disclose any such information to persons outside of camp. Any such information should only be used for the purpose of carrying out your employment for the camp and should not be used or exploited for your own benefit. These obligations continue after your period of employment.
Change in Assignment and Additional Responsibilities: Occasionally, it becomes necessary to change staff assignments or responsibilities as defined on the staff member’s employment agreement. While such changes will be held to a minimum, staff members are expected to recognize the importance of flexibility in staffing a camp. Every effort will be taken to match the needs of camp with the needs of the staff member. Consultation between a director and the affected staff member will precede any contemplated change in assignment.
Trips: Staff members are representatives of Camp North Star and should act in a manner consistent with the mission and objectives of camp at all times. They will be held strictly accountable for their actions on and off the property.
Visitors: Camp North Star does not allow visitors during the camp season. Steven or Brooke Bernstein must approve any persons wishing to visit camp before they arrive on camp property.
Animals: staff members are not allowed to have pets at camp. Any exceptions must be cleared with the Directors.
Use of Power Tools: only trained maintenance personnel may operate power tools.
What are the staff discipline policies?
We know that no one is perfect. After all our years of camping and our experiences with counselors, we know that someone, sometime, is going to slip up. If any of the camp rules and policies are broken, and it is felt that a punishment is warranted, we try to do this fairly. We also will try our best to “coach” you to be the best counselor you can be!
Certain types of gross misconduct, however, can result in immediate dismissal. This can include:(NOTE: this list is an example only and is by no means exhaustive)
• Violation of drug/alcohol policy
• Physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse of a camper
• Carrying out duties inefficiently, or neglecting to accomplish them
• Unsafe working methods
• Stealing
• Using offensive language around campers and/or staff
• Talking about inappropriate topics in the presence of campers
• Flagrant disregard of camp rules and regulations
• Corporal punishment of a camper.
• Not using the correct protective clothing/gear.
• Leaving your department without the Department Head's knowledge or permission.
• Being late or missing curfew
Again, we plan on working with you, to help you be the best counselor you can be. We know that staff who feel supported and valued, work harder and are more dedicated to our campers. We don’t know of any greater responsibility than taking care of someone else’s child for the summer, and we know you will not take that responsibility lightly. If you ever have a question, please just ask! We are here for you as much as we are here for our campers.
Formal Disciplinary Action of Staff: There are a number of steps that are followed regarding the formal disciplinary action of a staff member. Disciplinary action does not necessarily lead to dismissal.
• Informal warning by the department head or Head Counselor. NOTE: this may not always be applicable.
• Formal warning by Program Director, Head Counselor, and/or Camp Director.
• Dismissal by the Camp Director.
Dismissal: The camp administrative staff reserves the right to terminate the staff agreement for such reasons as Poland Campco, LLC may deem necessary, including but not limited to just and sufficient cause for unsatisfactory performance, inappropriate personal conduct on or off camp grounds, or due to early termination of the camp season and/or retrenchment due to a decrease in anticipated enrollment. All employment at Poland Campco, LLC is “at-will”, which means employees may be terminated at any time for any reason, with or without cause or notice to the employee. In such instances, staff will be paid on a pro-rata basis for the term of actual employment.
Jurisdiction: It is agreed that any dispute or cause of action arising between the parties, whether out of this agreement or otherwise, can only be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of Maine, and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of Maine.
• Violation of drug/alcohol policy
• Physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse of a camper
• Carrying out duties inefficiently, or neglecting to accomplish them
• Unsafe working methods
• Stealing
• Using offensive language around campers and/or staff
• Talking about inappropriate topics in the presence of campers
• Flagrant disregard of camp rules and regulations
• Corporal punishment of a camper.
• Not using the correct protective clothing/gear.
• Leaving your department without the Department Head's knowledge or permission.
• Being late or missing curfew
Again, we plan on working with you, to help you be the best counselor you can be. We know that staff who feel supported and valued, work harder and are more dedicated to our campers. We don’t know of any greater responsibility than taking care of someone else’s child for the summer, and we know you will not take that responsibility lightly. If you ever have a question, please just ask! We are here for you as much as we are here for our campers.
Formal Disciplinary Action of Staff: There are a number of steps that are followed regarding the formal disciplinary action of a staff member. Disciplinary action does not necessarily lead to dismissal.
• Informal warning by the department head or Head Counselor. NOTE: this may not always be applicable.
• Formal warning by Program Director, Head Counselor, and/or Camp Director.
• Dismissal by the Camp Director.
Dismissal: The camp administrative staff reserves the right to terminate the staff agreement for such reasons as Poland Campco, LLC may deem necessary, including but not limited to just and sufficient cause for unsatisfactory performance, inappropriate personal conduct on or off camp grounds, or due to early termination of the camp season and/or retrenchment due to a decrease in anticipated enrollment. All employment at Poland Campco, LLC is “at-will”, which means employees may be terminated at any time for any reason, with or without cause or notice to the employee. In such instances, staff will be paid on a pro-rata basis for the term of actual employment.
Jurisdiction: It is agreed that any dispute or cause of action arising between the parties, whether out of this agreement or otherwise, can only be brought in a court of competent jurisdiction located in the State of Maine, and shall be construed in accordance with the laws of Maine.
What is the policy on personal vehicle use?
Staff Members are not permitted to use their personal vehicle on camp property for personal purposes. (Driving your automobile to an activity area is considered a personal purpose.) Personal vehicles remain in the designated staff parking lot until the staff member departs camp on his day/night off. Camp policy states:
• Staff members aren’t permitted to drive campers in personal vehicles without consent from the Camp Director.
• All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts.
• Speed limit on camp property is 5 mph.
• Staff members are cautioned about loaning out their vehicle and the risk that’s assumed if an accident occurs.
• Staff members aren’t permitted to drive campers in personal vehicles without consent from the Camp Director.
• All drivers and passengers must wear seatbelts.
• Speed limit on camp property is 5 mph.
• Staff members are cautioned about loaning out their vehicle and the risk that’s assumed if an accident occurs.
What is the policy on use of facilities, vehicles, and equipment?
Staff use of equipment and supplies is a privilege rather than a right. Each department head will determine if staff can use equipment and supplies.
Vehicles: Anyone driving a camp vehicle must first pass a driving test. Camp vehicles are not for use by counselors for time off. You MUST ask a Director before taking a golf cart or vehicle for use on or off property. When using any type of vehicle on camp property all driving rules and safety procedures must be followed.
Cars and Parking: Staff members with automobiles are required to park the vehicle in the assigned camp parking lot. Use of these automobiles within the camp property is prohibited unless permitted by the director. Keys must remain in your locker.
Waterfront: Nobody may use the waterfront unless there is a minimum of one lifeguard on duty. Staff that is not lifeguards or waterfront instructors are not permitted at the waterfront or in the water unless it is part of a camp activity, you are instructed by a director, or you are looking for a camper. Staff is NEVER permitted at the waterfront or in the water during time off unless it is approved by the Waterfront Directors. Swimming for exercise is permitted in the lake prior to the morning bell. You must let a director know if you plan to swim in the morning. The following precautions must be met at all times: it is not raining, thundering or lightning, you are never swimming alone, and a certified lifeguard is acting as a lifeguard, not as a swimmer. You must be back inside your cabin by the morning bell which is typically at 7:15 AM.
Morning Workouts: Running or general exercising is permitted prior to the morning bell. You must be back inside your cabin by the morning bell, which is typically at 7:15 AM. Only 1 staff member per cabin may leave the cabin to swim or exercise on any given morning. CITs are not permitted to leave the cabin for swimming or exercise unless given permission by a director. All staff must stay on property during this time.
Cabins: To ensure privacy and provide other protection to our community, staff and campers are not permitted to enter any cabin other than their own cabin. This includes tents and cabins or other lodging on trips. This also includes cabins for directors, administrators, nurses, and support staff.
Vehicles: Anyone driving a camp vehicle must first pass a driving test. Camp vehicles are not for use by counselors for time off. You MUST ask a Director before taking a golf cart or vehicle for use on or off property. When using any type of vehicle on camp property all driving rules and safety procedures must be followed.
Cars and Parking: Staff members with automobiles are required to park the vehicle in the assigned camp parking lot. Use of these automobiles within the camp property is prohibited unless permitted by the director. Keys must remain in your locker.
Waterfront: Nobody may use the waterfront unless there is a minimum of one lifeguard on duty. Staff that is not lifeguards or waterfront instructors are not permitted at the waterfront or in the water unless it is part of a camp activity, you are instructed by a director, or you are looking for a camper. Staff is NEVER permitted at the waterfront or in the water during time off unless it is approved by the Waterfront Directors. Swimming for exercise is permitted in the lake prior to the morning bell. You must let a director know if you plan to swim in the morning. The following precautions must be met at all times: it is not raining, thundering or lightning, you are never swimming alone, and a certified lifeguard is acting as a lifeguard, not as a swimmer. You must be back inside your cabin by the morning bell which is typically at 7:15 AM.
Morning Workouts: Running or general exercising is permitted prior to the morning bell. You must be back inside your cabin by the morning bell, which is typically at 7:15 AM. Only 1 staff member per cabin may leave the cabin to swim or exercise on any given morning. CITs are not permitted to leave the cabin for swimming or exercise unless given permission by a director. All staff must stay on property during this time.
Cabins: To ensure privacy and provide other protection to our community, staff and campers are not permitted to enter any cabin other than their own cabin. This includes tents and cabins or other lodging on trips. This also includes cabins for directors, administrators, nurses, and support staff.
What are some things to know about being safe in the workplace?
The Directors and Health Care Staff are aware of the site, facilities, and equipment, and are very concerned with the safety of the entire camp community. We rely on our staff members to bring to our attention any potential safety hazards (i.e., faulty equipment, structural damage to buildings, and natural hazards such as a falling tree, etc.). Please report any faulty or broken equipment to the Office, and do not use it until it can be inspected and/or repaired.
Safety always comes first. Do not use anything if you suspect that it may be unsafe.
Health, Safety, and Exposure Policies:
Safety Committee
The purpose of the Camp North Star Safety Committee is to:
• Create and maintain an active interest in safety.
• Serve as a means of safety and health communication to and from employees.
• Make safety inspections on a periodic basis to help identify and correct hazards or unsafe procedures before an accident or injury occurs.
• Provide input and information to the Directors for the improvement of the Safety Program.
• Review accident reports and assist in the development of methods or corrective measures to help prevent accident recurrence.
The members of the committee are:
Steven Bernstein - Director
Brooke Bernstein - Director
Brenden Dallaire - Operations Director
Jessica Taylor - Head Nurse
Em Bruce - Assistant Director
The Safety Committee meets once a week to review any accidents and all aspects of safety at camp. Please bring to their attention any areas of concern you may have regarding safety.
Safety always comes first. Do not use anything if you suspect that it may be unsafe.
Health, Safety, and Exposure Policies:
Safety Committee
The purpose of the Camp North Star Safety Committee is to:
• Create and maintain an active interest in safety.
• Serve as a means of safety and health communication to and from employees.
• Make safety inspections on a periodic basis to help identify and correct hazards or unsafe procedures before an accident or injury occurs.
• Provide input and information to the Directors for the improvement of the Safety Program.
• Review accident reports and assist in the development of methods or corrective measures to help prevent accident recurrence.
The members of the committee are:
Steven Bernstein - Director
Brooke Bernstein - Director
Brenden Dallaire - Operations Director
Jessica Taylor - Head Nurse
Em Bruce - Assistant Director
The Safety Committee meets once a week to review any accidents and all aspects of safety at camp. Please bring to their attention any areas of concern you may have regarding safety.
What are some important emergency procedures?
Medical emergencies and injuries: Allow medical staff to handle all accidents and emergencies. Send someone for help immediately and stay with the accident victim. Do not move the patient. Minor injuries may be initially dealt with by department members/bunk counselors and then referred to the Health Care Center.
All departments, bunks, and vehicles have first aid kits with gloves, Band-Aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tape, and plastic bags for the disposal of any contaminated medical waste.*
*Medical waste is the term used to describe refuse from a healthcare facility. Medical waste includes Band-Aid wrappers, used tissues, syringes, and medicine cups. While most medical waste is noninfectious, some are considered infectious or contaminated "waste which contains pathogens with sufficient virulence and quantity so that exposure to the waste by a susceptible host could result in an infectious disease. Infectious/contaminated waste includes blood, body fluids, and used needles. It does not include feces, nasal secretions, sputum, sweat, tears, urine, or vomit unless they contain visible blood.
Other Emergency Situations: In all emergency situations (weather, natural disaster, situation regarding evacuation) and drills, the following procedures will be followed:
• If you discover the emergency, notify administrative staff.
• Emergency Buzzer will sound.
• Gather all cabins in the designated area on the basketball court, and conduct a head count to ensure that all of your campers are accounted for.
• Wait for further direction.
Severe Weather: In case of sudden severe weather, take cover with your activity group in a bunk or nearby building and wait for further instructions.
Fire: If you suspect there is a fire, immediately vacate the building and inform a director. In the case of a fire in a cabin, exit quickly and proceed to the outdoor basketball court. Counselors should be the last person out of the cabin and direct campers to their assigned position to check off names. No one should delay their exit by collecting personal items. Counselors stay with their campers. There are exit signs, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers in all cabins, so make sure you know where all of these are located.
Storms: Listen for announcements on the P.A. system or walkie-talkie. If the power is out, the office staff will communicate with instructions. If you are at an activity, take refuge in the nearest indoor building. Do a headcount to make sure you have all your campers with you.
Severe Storms (i.e., Tornado): Listen for announcements. If the power is out, office staff will visit bunks and departments with instructions. If you are at an activity, take refuge in the nearest indoor building. Do a headcount to make sure you have all your campers with you. Depending on the severity of the storm, instructions may include taking shelter in the Field House or Cliffside Lodge.
Department Health and Safety Procedures: Every department will have a list of safety rules and regulations visibly posted within their department. During Staff Training, each department will train, practice, and run through an emergency situation that is likely to occur in that department with their department head. These procedures will be reviewed and practiced. There will also be open discussions of all potential emergency situations, including remedies and post-emergency follow-up (i.e., completing necessary forms). The nursing staff also will discuss during Staff Training camp health policies, regarding dealing with emergencies, control of infection, and exposure control.
Missing Camper Policy: If a camper does not show up to a counselor’s period within 5 minutes of the bell (which marks the activity’s start time), the staff in charge should ask the other campers where they last saw the missing camper. Because our community is so small, it is likely that someone knows where they were in the previous period and perhaps why they are late. After waiting 5 minutes for the camper, the staff member must immediately inform a director, typically via walkie-talkie. The administrative staff member will begin the process for a missing camper.
Intruder/Trespasser Policy: If trespassers are on the property, staff is to notify the director team immediately and they will come to assist. Depending on the situation, the trespassers should be notified that they are on private property and need to leave. If the trespassers are uncooperative, the police will be called. If the trespassers look as if they are there to cause trouble (sneaking around, there late at night, intoxicated, etc.) police need to be called immediately.
Steps for dealing with trespassers: • Inquire as to why they are at camp
• If they don't have a scheduled meeting or are unrelated to camp, politely ask them to leave
• If you are unsure of what to do, or don't feel comfortable approaching an intruder/trespasser, then don't. Find another staff member or director immediately.
• Notify a senior staff member (who will call the police if warranted)
• Write an incident report with as many details as possible - What was said. What direction they arrived from. What they looked like (hair, size, clothing, etc.)
Dealing with the Media: In the event of a crisis, at no time will staff speak with the media or anyone outside of Camp North Star other than to tell them that they need to talk to the Camp Owners. A key message will be communicated by the Camp Owners to the camp community only after all of the facts of the situation have been collected.
All departments, bunks, and vehicles have first aid kits with gloves, Band-Aids, gauze, antiseptic wipes, tape, and plastic bags for the disposal of any contaminated medical waste.*
*Medical waste is the term used to describe refuse from a healthcare facility. Medical waste includes Band-Aid wrappers, used tissues, syringes, and medicine cups. While most medical waste is noninfectious, some are considered infectious or contaminated "waste which contains pathogens with sufficient virulence and quantity so that exposure to the waste by a susceptible host could result in an infectious disease. Infectious/contaminated waste includes blood, body fluids, and used needles. It does not include feces, nasal secretions, sputum, sweat, tears, urine, or vomit unless they contain visible blood.
Other Emergency Situations: In all emergency situations (weather, natural disaster, situation regarding evacuation) and drills, the following procedures will be followed:
• If you discover the emergency, notify administrative staff.
• Emergency Buzzer will sound.
• Gather all cabins in the designated area on the basketball court, and conduct a head count to ensure that all of your campers are accounted for.
• Wait for further direction.
Severe Weather: In case of sudden severe weather, take cover with your activity group in a bunk or nearby building and wait for further instructions.
Fire: If you suspect there is a fire, immediately vacate the building and inform a director. In the case of a fire in a cabin, exit quickly and proceed to the outdoor basketball court. Counselors should be the last person out of the cabin and direct campers to their assigned position to check off names. No one should delay their exit by collecting personal items. Counselors stay with their campers. There are exit signs, smoke detectors, and fire extinguishers in all cabins, so make sure you know where all of these are located.
Storms: Listen for announcements on the P.A. system or walkie-talkie. If the power is out, the office staff will communicate with instructions. If you are at an activity, take refuge in the nearest indoor building. Do a headcount to make sure you have all your campers with you.
Severe Storms (i.e., Tornado): Listen for announcements. If the power is out, office staff will visit bunks and departments with instructions. If you are at an activity, take refuge in the nearest indoor building. Do a headcount to make sure you have all your campers with you. Depending on the severity of the storm, instructions may include taking shelter in the Field House or Cliffside Lodge.
Department Health and Safety Procedures: Every department will have a list of safety rules and regulations visibly posted within their department. During Staff Training, each department will train, practice, and run through an emergency situation that is likely to occur in that department with their department head. These procedures will be reviewed and practiced. There will also be open discussions of all potential emergency situations, including remedies and post-emergency follow-up (i.e., completing necessary forms). The nursing staff also will discuss during Staff Training camp health policies, regarding dealing with emergencies, control of infection, and exposure control.
Missing Camper Policy: If a camper does not show up to a counselor’s period within 5 minutes of the bell (which marks the activity’s start time), the staff in charge should ask the other campers where they last saw the missing camper. Because our community is so small, it is likely that someone knows where they were in the previous period and perhaps why they are late. After waiting 5 minutes for the camper, the staff member must immediately inform a director, typically via walkie-talkie. The administrative staff member will begin the process for a missing camper.
Intruder/Trespasser Policy: If trespassers are on the property, staff is to notify the director team immediately and they will come to assist. Depending on the situation, the trespassers should be notified that they are on private property and need to leave. If the trespassers are uncooperative, the police will be called. If the trespassers look as if they are there to cause trouble (sneaking around, there late at night, intoxicated, etc.) police need to be called immediately.
Steps for dealing with trespassers: • Inquire as to why they are at camp
• If they don't have a scheduled meeting or are unrelated to camp, politely ask them to leave
• If you are unsure of what to do, or don't feel comfortable approaching an intruder/trespasser, then don't. Find another staff member or director immediately.
• Notify a senior staff member (who will call the police if warranted)
• Write an incident report with as many details as possible - What was said. What direction they arrived from. What they looked like (hair, size, clothing, etc.)
Dealing with the Media: In the event of a crisis, at no time will staff speak with the media or anyone outside of Camp North Star other than to tell them that they need to talk to the Camp Owners. A key message will be communicated by the Camp Owners to the camp community only after all of the facts of the situation have been collected.