Summer Youth Playwriting Program: Policies and Community Guidelines

Program Commitment

• Students must attend all scheduled sessions and arrive on time. Consistent attendance ensures full participation in collaborative activities and script development.

• Participants are expected to actively engage in discussions, writing exercises, and group projects.

• Absences must be communicated in advance to program staff. Repeated unexcused absences may result in dismissal from the program.

Respectful Conduct

• All participants must treat peers, instructors, and guest artists with respect and professionalism.

• Discrimination, bullying, harassment, or any form of disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.

• Constructive feedback is encouraged; criticism must always be delivered respectfully and with the intent to support creative growth.

Safe and Inclusive Environment

• The program is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and welcoming space for all youth regardless of race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, or ability.

• Participants are expected to uphold these values and contribute to a positive, supportive community.

• Any concerns about safety or inclusion should be reported immediately to program staff.

Creative Integrity

• Students must submit original work. Plagiarism or misrepresentation of another’s work as one’s own is strictly prohibited.

• Collaboration is encouraged, but proper credit must always be given to co-creators and contributors.

• Respect for intellectual property extends to all materials shared during the program.

Use of Materials and Space

• Participants must handle all program materials, equipment, and facilities with care.

• Students must safeguard the property and space of the public building where the program is held, showing courtesy and respect to library staff, patrons, and other community members using the shared facility.

• Food and beverages are not permitted. Only in designated areas and time.

• Students are responsible for cleaning up their workspace at the end of each session.

Digital and Media Policy

• Photos, videos, or recordings may be taken during sessions for educational or promotional purposes. Parental or guardian consent will be obtained prior to use.

• Participants must not share or post images, videos, or written work of others without permission.

Code of Collaboration

• The program values teamwork, empathy, and open-mindedness.

• Students are encouraged to listen actively, support one another’s creative voices, and celebrate diverse perspectives.

• Disagreements should be resolved respectfully through dialogue and staff mediation if needed.

Accountability and Consequences

• Violation of these guidelines may result in a warning, meeting with staff, or removal from the program depending on the severity of the issue.

• The program reserves the right to dismiss any participant whose behavior disrupts the learning environment or compromises the safety and well-being of others.

Acknowledgment

All students and guardians must review and sign the Program Policies and Community Guidelines form prior to the start of the program to confirm understanding and agreement.