Policies & Resources

Two Snacks, Healthy Lunch, Water Bottle with Name

Each day of camp will have a morning and afternoon snack, in addition to a midday lunch. Please send your child with two snacks, a healthy lunch, and a water bottle that has his/her name on it.

Comfortable, Camp-Appropriate Clothes, Closed-Toed Shoes, Brimmed Hat

Clothes and shoes are one way that children can express themselves; however, Junior Mountaineers Camp will have a variety of physical and outdoor activities as well as science and projects that might get a little messy (creative!). Camp clothing and shoes can be lost, torn, stained, or experience other mishaps. Campers should arrive in camp-appropriate clothing, a brimmed hat, and closed-toed shoes that allow them to be active and engage in hands-on activities and sports. We will be walking, hiking, or being physically active every day of camp, so closed-toed shoes are a must as well as a jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho. If your child comes to camp without closed-toed shoes and/or inappropriate clothes for camp, s/he will not be able to be signed into camp until appropriate shoes and/or clothing are being worn. Please help camp staff by sending your child in camp clothes that err on the side of modesty, including swimsuits. Clothes and hats should be appropriate for a coed camp of 5-12-year-olds.

Please mark all items and removable clothing clearly with child’s name. Staff will do their best to organize and locate removable student items but are not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Unlabeled items whose owner can’t be identified will go into the Junior Mountaineers Lost & Found Box while it awaits reunion with its owner. This box will be donated to Six Points at the end of summer camp.

Day Pack

Backpack with two arm straps, large enough to carry jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho, lunch, two snacks, and two water bottles with name. Day pack should have:

• Two water bottles with name
• Lip Balm
• Sunglasses
• Two snacks & lunch
• Jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho

Personal Belongings & Electronics

To protect your child’s possessions, please keep personal toys, electronics (cell phones, smart watches, Kindles, etc), money, knives/guns/weapons, valuables, etc. at home. These items can be easily lost or broken at camp. Additionally, JMC aims to create an environment where campers can fully engage in social connections without electronic distractions. If any personal belongings and/or electronics are brought to JMC, they will be held in the Camp Director’s office and returned to parents/guardians at pick up. Campers’ personal belongings will be stored in bins; however, Junior Mountaineers Camp is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Two Snacks, Healthy Lunch, Water Bottle with Name

Each day of camp will have a morning and afternoon snack, in addition to a midday lunch. Please send your child with two snacks, a healthy lunch, and a water bottle that has his/her name on it.

Comfortable, Camp-Appropriate Clothes, Closed-Toed Shoes, Brimmed Hat

Clothes and shoes are one way that children can express themselves; however, Junior Mountaineers Camp will have a variety of physical and outdoor activities as well as science and projects that might get a little messy (creative!). Camp clothing and shoes can be lost, torn, stained, or experience other mishaps. Campers should arrive in camp-appropriate clothing, a brimmed hat, and closed-toed shoes that allow them to be active and engage in hands-on activities and sports. We will be walking, hiking, or being physically active every day of camp, so closed-toed shoes are a must as well as a jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho. If your child comes to camp without closed-toed shoes and/or inappropriate clothes for camp, s/he will not be able to be signed into camp until appropriate shoes and/or clothing are being worn. Please help camp staff by sending your child in camp clothes that err on the side of modesty, including swimsuits. Clothes and hats should be appropriate for a coed camp of 5-12-year-olds.

Please mark all items and removable clothing clearly with child’s name. Staff will do their best to organize and locate removable student items but are not responsible for lost or stolen belongings. Unlabeled items whose owner can’t be identified will go into the Junior Mountaineers Lost & Found Box while it awaits reunion with its owner. This box will be donated to Six Points at the end of summer camp.

Day Pack

Backpack with two arm straps, large enough to carry jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho, lunch, two snacks, and two water bottles with name. Day pack should have:

• Two water bottles with name
• Lip Balm
• Sunglasses
• Two snacks & lunch
• Jacket and waterproof raincoat or poncho

Other Gear List

• Wheel Days – helmets are required. Bikes, scooters, skateboards, etc should be brought to camp. There is limited indoor storage and several outdoor bike racks. Optional: bike lock.
• Trips with Mountain Biking - helmets are required. Bikes should have hand brakes and gears. Suspension not required. A limited quantity of mountain bikes available to rent for $40 per day of mountain biking. Can be rented as an add-on through your online account. (LINK)
• Rock Climbing – helmets, harnesses, and rock climbing shoes will be provided.
• Swimming at Reservoir / Paddle Boarding – Coast Guard approved life vests will be provided. Personal life vests can be brought to camp as well.
• Rafting – whitewater rafting life vest will be provided.

Personal Belongings & Electronics

To protect your child’s possessions, please keep personal toys, electronics (cell phones, smart watches, Kindles, etc), money, knives/guns/weapons, valuables, etc. at home. These items can be easily lost or broken at camp. Additionally, JMC aims to create an environment where campers can fully engage in social connections without electronic distractions. If any personal belongings and/or electronics are brought to JMC, they will be held in the Camp Director’s office and returned to parents/guardians at pick up. Campers’ personal belongings will be stored in bins; however, Junior Mountaineers Camp is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Below are recommended packing lists items that will keep campers safe and warm during the JMC Hybrid Camp.

Write camper’s name on everything!

JMC staff will work with campers on Monday and Tuesday to ensure they have the appropriate gear for the overnight component. JMC will provide camping gear to those campers who do not have everything on lists below.

Two Snacks, Healthy Lunch, Two Water Bottles with Name

Campers should bring two snacks, a healthy lunch, and two labeled water bottles on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. JMC will provide dinner on Wednesday, snacks and three meals on Thursday, and snacks plus breakfast and lunch on Friday. Dietary needs or food allergies must be disclosed at registration. JMC will accommodate most restrictions and will contact families if additional arrangements are needed. The meal and snack menu will be emailed to parents along with the weekly schedule no later than two weeks prior to the start of each camp.

Day Pack

Backpack with two arm straps, large enough to carry extra layers, lunch, two snacks, and two water bottles with name. Day pack should have:

• Two water bottles with name
• Lip Balm (SPF preferred)
• Brimmed hat
• Sunscreen SPF 15 or higher (non-aerosol)
• Insect repellent (non-aerosol)
• Personal hand sanitizer
• Waterproof raincoat or poncho
• Optional: sunglasses

Overnight Bag for Wednesday – Friday

One large duffle bag, over-the-shoulder bag, suitcase, or large backpack that holds camper’s gear. Overnight bag should have:

• Sleeping bag & pillow
• Sleeping pad (if you have one)
• Clothing (see clothing list below)
• Towel & washcloth
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries (zip loc to protect it from water)
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Brush or comb
• Feminine products (if needed)
• Booster seat if needed per Colorado Child Passenger Safety Law
• Other items as needed

Clothing List

Clothes and shoes are one way that children can express themselves; however, clothes and hats should be appropriate for a youth coed camp. Please send camp clothes that err on the side of modesty, including swimsuits.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable and nights in the backcountry can be 50 degrees less than a daytime high. Campers should bring multiple layers to adjust to the changing weather. Synthetic, non-cotton clothing is best because it dries quickly and is moisture-wicking. Below is the required clothing list that will allow campers to be well-prepared for a variety of conditions:

TOPS

• 2 t-shirts
• 1 long sleeve shirt
• 1-2 synthetic fleece jackets or wool sweaters
• 1 puffy jacket (down or synthetic)
• Swimsuit and towel for water activities
• Pjs or sleeping attire

BOTTOMS

• 6 underwear
• 1 long underwear / thermal bottom
• 1 long hiking pants
• 2 shorts
• 1 long pants (athletic wear, sweatpants, etc)
• PJs or sleeping attire

FEET

• Closed-toed tennis shoes (preferably broken in)
• 2 non-cotton socks
• Optional: Camp shoes (crocs or other comfy shoes)
• Optional: hiking boots
• Paddle boarding or Whitewater rafting days: closed toed water shoes (crocs, keens, old tennis shoes, or other water shoes. No flip flops)
• Rock climbing days: rock climbing shoes (optional)

HEAD & HANDS

• 1 warm hat
• 1 brimmed hat for sun protection
• 1 pair gloves or mittens
• Biking days: helmets are required.

OPTIONAL

• Bandana
• Camera (non-cell phone version)
• Binoculars
• Free time activities: book, magazine, sketch pad, journal, cards, etc.
• Sunglasses neck strap (required if wearing sunglasses on a water activity)
• Life vest for water activities (JMC will provide)

Other Gear List

• Mountain Biking
  • Helmets are required.
  • Bikes should have hand brakes and gears.
  • Suspension not required.
    A limited quantity of mountain bikes available to rent for $40 per day of mountain biking. These can be rented as an add-on through your online account. 
• Rock Climbing
  • Helmets, harnesses, and rock climbing shoes will be provided.
• Swimming at Reservoir / Paddle Boarding
  • Coast Guard approved life vests will be provided.
  • Personal life vests can be brought to camp as well.
• Rafting
  • Whitewater rafting life vest will be provided.

Anti-Packing List: The Things to Leave at Home

If any personal belongings and/or electronics are brought to JMC, they will be held in the Camp Director’s office and returned to parents/guardians at pick up.

• Personal toys
• Electronics (cell phones, smart watches, Kindles, i-anything, etc)
• Make-up
• Fireworks
• Expensive jewelry, watches, cameras
• Weapons, including pocket knives
• Alcohol, tobacco, drugs
• Money
• Scented lotions – attracts bugs
• Junk food and candy

Hut and Expedition Camp

JMC will provide snacks and nutritious meals for campers. Dietary needs or food allergies must be disclosed at registration. JMC will accommodate most restrictions and will contact families if additional arrangements are needed. The meal and snack menu will be emailed to parents along with the weekly schedule no later than three weeks prior to the start of each camp.

Below are recommended packing lists items that will keep campers safe and warm during the JMC Huts and Expedition Camp. Write camper’s name on everything!

Day Pack

Backpack with two arm straps, large enough to carry the following day-to-day items in it:

• Two water bottles with name
• Lip Balm (SPF preferred)
• Brimmed hat
• Sunscreen SPF 15 or higher (non-aerosol)
• Insect repellent (non-aerosol)
• Personal hand sanitizer
• Waterproof raincoat or poncho
• Optional: sunglasses

Backpack with two arm straps, large enough to carry the following day-to-day items in it:

• Two water bottles with name
• Lip Balm (SPF preferred)
• Brimmed hat
• Sunscreen SPF 15 or higher (non-aerosol)
• Insect repellent (non-aerosol)
• Personal hand sanitizer
• Waterproof raincoat or poncho
• Optional: sunglasses

Overnight Bag

One large duffle bag, over-the-shoulder bag, suitcase, or large backpack that holds camper’s gear. Overnight bag should have:

• Sleeping bag & pillow
• Sleeping pad (if you have one)
• Clothing (see clothing list below)
• Towel & washcloth
• Headlamp or flashlight with extra batteries (zip loc to protect it from water)
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Brush or comb
• Feminine products (if needed)
• Booster seat if needed per Colorado Child Passenger Safety Law
• Other items as needed

Clothing List

Clothes and shoes are one way that children can express themselves; however, clothes and hats should be appropriate for a youth coed camp. Please send camp clothes that err on the side of modesty, including swimsuits.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable and nights in the backcountry can be 50 degrees less than a daytime high. Campers should bring multiple layers to adjust to the changing weather. Synthetic, non-cotton clothing is best because it dries quickly and is moisture-wicking. Below is the required clothing list that will allow campers to be well-prepared for a variety of conditions:

TOPS

• 2 t-shirts
• 1 long sleeve shirt
• 1-2 synthetic fleece jackets or wool sweaters
• 1 puffy jacket (down or synthetic)
• Swimsuit and towel for water activities
• Pjs or sleeping attire

BOTTOMS

• 6 underwear
• 1 long underwear / thermal bottom
• 1 long hiking pants
• 2 shorts
• 1 long pants (athletic wear, sweatpants, etc)
• PJs or sleeping attire

FEET

• Closed-toed tennis shoes (preferably broken in)
• 3 non-cotton socks
• Optional: hiking boots
• Optional: Camp shoes (crocs or other comfy shoes)
• Paddle boarding or Whitewater rafting days: closed toed water shoes (crocs, keens, old tennis shoes, or other water shoes. No flip flops)
• Rock climbing days: rock climbing shoes (optional)

HEAD & HANDS

• 1 warm hat
• 1 brimmed hat for sun protection
• 1 pair gloves or mittens

ACCESSORIES

• Labeled laundry bag (for dirty clothes)
• Labeled trash bag (for wet clothes)

OPTIONAL

• Bandana
• Camera (non-cell phone version)
• Binoculars
• Free time activities: book, magazine, sketch pad, journal, cards, etc.
• Sunglasses neck strap (required if wearing sunglasses on a water activity)
• Life vest for water activities (JMC will provide)

Other Gear List

• Trips with Backpacking - backpack that is 50-70L. A limited quantity of backpacks are available to rent for $25 during JMC Expedition or Hut Trips. Rentals can be added through your online account. (LINK)
• Trips with Mountain Biking - helmets are required. Bikes should have hand brakes and gears. Suspension not required. A limited quantity of mountain bikes available to rent for $40 during JMC Expedition or Hut Trips. Rentals can be added through your online account. (LINK)
• Rock Climbing – helmets, harnesses, and rock climbing shoes will be provided.
• Swimming at Reservoir / Paddle Boarding – Coast Guard approved life vests will be provided. Personal life vests can be brought to camp as well.
• Rafting – whitewater rafting life vest will be provided

Anti-Packing List / The Things to Leave at Home

If any personal belongings and/or electronics are brought to JMC, they will be held in the Camp Director’s office and returned to parents/guardians at pick up.

• Personal toys
• Electronics (cell phones, smart watches, Kindles, i-anything, etc)
• Make-up
• Fireworks
• Expensive jewelry, watches, cameras
• Weapons, including pocket knives
• Alcohol, tobacco, drugs
• Money
• Scented lotions – attracts bugs
• Junk food and candy – we want to appreciate wildlife at a distance as opposed to in our camping area

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Expedition Camp Packing List

Days include structured STEAM activities, outdoor play, swimming or climbing days, lunch, rest time, and team challenges.

Note: Parents dropping off or picking up outside of scheduled times must coordinate in advance with camp staff.

* Adventure Activities may include hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, rock climbing

Note: Parents dropping off or picking up outside of scheduled times must bring their child to the JMC location and sign them in or out with camp staff.

Exact JMC Hybrid Camp schedules will be emailed to parents no later than two weeks prior to the start of each camp.

A general week schedule is listed below.

* Adventure Activities may include hiking, stand-up paddleboarding, whitewater rafting, rock climbing, or
mountain biking.

Exact JMC Expedition and Hut Camp schedules will be emailed to parents no later than three weeks prior to the start of each camp.

A general schedule can be found below:

• JMC Day Camp: 
  • $235 per week – early bird rate through March
  • $245 per week – beginning April 1
  • $60 per day (available two weeks prior to the start of each camp, dependent on registration numbers)
• JMC Adventure Day Camp:
  • $500 per week – early bird rate though March
  • $525 per week – beginning April 1
  • $100 per day (available two weeks prior to the start of each camp, dependent on registration numbers)
• JMC Hybrid Camp:
  • $625 per week – early bird rate through March
  • $650 per week – beginning April 1
• JMC Huts & Expedition Camp:
  • $1350 per week – early bird rate through March
  • $1450 per week – beginning April 1

• Cancellation, transfer, and refund requests must be made via email to the JMC Director.
• Processing fees paid at registration are not eligible for refund
• Any last-minute cancellations due to illness, injury, or family emergency will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. Written documentation/medical documentation will be required for exceptions in the cancellation policies listed below. Please email the JMC Director to discuss your situation. Refunds are not available for days missed due to illness once the camp week has begun.
• Transfers are only permitted within the same summer season.
• If JMC cancels a camp, a full refund will be issued. All camp cancellations and refunds will be confirmed via email sent to the email used during camp registration.
• Parents are responsible for all costs of early departure from camp. 
  • JMC Day Camp & JMC Adventure Day Camp:
    • Cancellation requests must be submitted at least two weeks before the camp start date. Cancellations made prior to this deadline will be refunded, minus a $30 cancellation fee per week. If a cancellation is requested within two weeks of the camp start date, the full camp fee is non-refundable.
    • Transfers within the same summer season are free of charge if requested at least two weeks before the camp start date and are subject to availability. We are unable to process transfer requests made less than two weeks before the camp begins.
  • JMC Hybrid Camp:
    • Cancellation requests must be submitted at least three weeks before the camp start date. Cancellations made prior to this deadline will be refunded, minus a $30 cancellation fee per week. If a cancellation is requested within three weeks of the camp start date, the full camp fee is non-refundable.
    • Transfers within the same summer season are free of charge if requested at least three weeks before the camp start date and are subject to availability. We are unable to process transfer requests made less than three weeks before the camp begins.

• • JMC Huts & Expedition Camp:
    • Cancellation requests must be submitted at least four weeks before the camp start date. Cancellations made prior to this deadline will be refunded, minus a $180 cancellation fee per week. If a cancellation is requested within four weeks of the camp start date, the full camp fee is non-refundable.
    • Transfers within the same summer season are free of charge if requested at least four weeks before the camp start date and are subject to availability. We are unable to process transfer requests made less than four weeks before the camp begins.

JMC does not discriminate based on any race, gender, national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to youth campers. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, or scholarships. JMC is committed to a diverse, equitable, and inclusive camp.

JMC is committed to providing an inclusive environment and does not discriminate against any student based on disability or special needs. We work with families on a case-by-case basis to ensure that reasonable accommodations are made so our programs are accessible to all. If your child has a disability or special needs, please indicate this during registration so we can plan appropriately and provide the necessary support. While we strive to meet the needs of every camper and family, please understand there may be limitations due to staff-to-student ratios and the specific training or experience required for certain disabilities.

Camper attendance will be established upon arrival and roll call is taken throughout the day when the group changes location and/or when a staffing change occurs. If a camper is able to sign themselves into camp and hasn’t arrived by 9:30am, JMC staff will call or text parents to inform them. At the end of the day, staff will review the attendance list to ensure all students have been signed out.

During field trips and when visiting off-campus locations, children are counted periodically, assigned buddies, and are required to stay in play areas where they can see JMC Staff at all times. Staff are required to be engaged in the activities, moving to see campers, and spread amongst the campers when on field trips or off-campus. Campers are required to ask permission to use the restroom and will need to take a buddy to use public restrooms.

If a child is not picked up by 5:35PM, the child’s guardians will be called, followed by emergency contacts. If staff have been unable to communicate with guardians or an emergency contact by 5:50PM, staff will call Gunnison County Dispatch. JMC staff will wait with the student on campus until an authorized adult or Gunnison County Dispatch picks up the child. A late pick up fee may be charged for repetitive late pick-ups.

Only persons listed as approved to pick up your child will be able to sign a child out of camp. Photo IDs are required for all persons picking up/signing a child out of camp to ensure the safety of your child. If an individual not authorized tries to pick up, JMC Staff will not release the child until written or verbal permission is granted by the child’s parents/guardians.

At the end of the day, JMC Staff will use the sign in/out roster to verify that all campers have been picked up. Staff will do a room and bathroom sweep prior to leaving at the end of the day to ensure no campers are remaining.

The camp staff consists of teachers from the Gunnison Watershed School District and/or Western students majoring in education, engineering, exercise and sport science, recreation & outdoor education who have been carefully selected by the Athletics Department due to their diverse backgrounds and skills they bring to the Junior Mountaineers program. All Junior Mountaineers Staff have gone through a weeklong, comprehensive training, have been background checked, and hold CPR/AED, First Aid, and Medication Administration certifications. The staff leading JMC Huts and Expeditions will consist of at least one staff with Wilderness First Responder training and nurse delegation.

Junior Mountaineers uses behavior guidelines to assure that summer camp is safe and fun for everyone involved. Camp staff will emphasize peer to peer conflict resolution and embrace the importance of respect and safety in our learning environment. The support and cooperation of the family with us is key to the success of all campers. Camp staff strives to work through behavior challenges that arise at camp before suspending or dismissing a camper from the program. However, all negative behaviors, including repeated minor negative behaviors, as well as singular severe negative behaviors, may result in camper suspension or dismissal from the program. If a child is suspended dismissed from the program, parents/guardians will be contacted by the JMC Director and asked to pick up their child from the JMC program.

Junior Mountaineers will use a positive reinforcement discipline approach to meet the individual needs of each camper. Some examples of positive reinforcement that may be used by camp staff include: modeling positive behavior towards campers and co-workers, encouraging campers to work as a team, verbal and nonverbal praise, awarding Mountaineer Money to campers to use towards a prize from the camp store to award behavior, having a behavior contract for overnight camps, and providing opportunities to earn camper’s choice activities.

During the first week of camp, staff will work with campers to create camp behavior expectations and rules. These rules will be reviewed every Monday and throughout each week of camp. Campers will need to meet these behavior expectations and camp rules to continue to attend Junior Mountaineers. Some basic camper behavior expectations will include:

• Use appropriate language
• Be respectful of camp staff, campers, property
• Remain with the JMC group unless granted permission to leave
• Participate in camp activities

When camper behavior does not meet Junior Mountaineers’ expectations and rules, the following system will be used to help campers navigate inappropriate behavior. Camper behaviors that require disciplinary action are organized into three categories, each with its own set of interventions.

Mild Behaviors

Mild behaviors are isolated or occasional actions that may briefly disrupt programming or the group dynamic. These behaviors are generally easy to manage, and camp staff can intervene quickly. JMC staff typically resolve these situations by reminding participants of the rules and expectations established at the start of the session. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Not paying attention or becoming consistently distracted
• Interrupting others
• Teasing or making unkind comments
• Minor disagreements or low-level conflicts between participants
• Refusal to participate in activities

Response:

• JMC Staff first provide verbal reminders or redirection.
• If the behavior persists, staff will complete a Think About It Sheet and notify parent/guardians.
• The Think About It Sheet allows campers to self-reflect, and provides a structured, document of the situation that the camper and staff discuss to help prevent the issue from recurring.

Moderate Behaviors

Moderate behaviors involve actions that clearly violate established rules and expectations. These behaviors disrupt the program or group dynamic and have a noticeable negative impact on other participants, the environment, or JMC staff. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Repeated or escalating mild behaviors
• Conflicts involving non-serious physical contact
• Name-calling or bullying behavior
• Defacing or vandalizing property

Response:

• Staff will use a Think About It Sheet, and when appropriate:
  • A Behavior Referral Form (Day Camp and Adventure Day Camp), or
  • Review the Behavior Contract (Hybrid, Huts, and Expedition Camp)
• Guardians will be notified and encouraged to discuss the situation with their child after programming.
• Behavior Referral Forms document the incident, outline expectations moving forward, and clarify that repeated behaviors may result in suspension or dismissal.

Severe Behaviors

Severe behaviors include any action, whether isolated or repeated, that poses a real or perceived threat to the health, safety, or emotional well-being of any individual involved in the program, including the participant themselves. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Use or possession of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping devices
• Persistent use of discriminatory, exclusionary, or denigrating language
• Verbal or written threats to staff or campers
• Refusal to follow staff direction in a way that creates risk
• Intentionally separating from the group, creating a safety concern
• Repeated moderate behaviors that do not improve after multiple staff interventions
• Unwanted physical contact or violations of another participant’s personal boundaries
• Sexual behavior

Response:

• Severe behaviors are taken seriously and evaluated case-by-case by JMC Staff and leadership.
• Consequences may include immediate dismissal from the program.
• Depending on the severity, participants may be permanently removed from future JMC programming.

Refunds due to Behavior. If suspended from camp, no refunds will be provided for fees incurred during the suspended days. If dismissed from camp, no refunds will be provided for the weekly fees incurred during the week of dismissal. Camper will be unenrolled for any remaining week/s of summer camp and refunds will be provided for these weeks.

Future Enrollment into JMC: Campers who are dismissed from Junior Mountaineers may be approved for re entry into the program in subsequent summers. If re-entry is granted, the camper will start the summer on probation for a predetermined period. If your child has been dismissed from Junior Mountaineers and you’d like to discuss the re-entry process, please contact the JMC Director.

Say cheese! JMC staff may take photos and/or videos of campers during the summer. Throughout each week of Day Camp, Adventure Day Camp, and Hybrid Camp, JMC staff will be uploading photos from their phones to a secure photo app called Share Your Photos. This app will require a password that will only be given parents/guardians who are authorized to pick up campers at Junior Mountaineers. Once your child is registered for a Junior Mountaineers Camp, you will receive log in info to view action shots of campers throughout the camp. Please protect this password as if it were your own. Junior Mountaineers and Western Colorado University reserves the right to use publications of audio, video, and/or photographic image of our participating campers, without the payment of compensation or royalties.

Email will be our main form of distributing information and camp schedules to parents/guardians regarding camp. Please ensure that the email used for camp registration is checked regularly. If your email needs to be updated or changed, please let us know. Junior Mountaineer staff will contact parents via phone for any issues and/or emergencies that occur during camp. If you need to reach us, please use the emails and phone numbers listed on the cover page of this document.

For the health and safety of campers, visitors will only be allowed if approved in advance by the Camp Director. Approved visitors will need to check in with JMC Staff upon arrival.

Junior Mountaineers is an activity-based, hands-on camp that aims to get children outdoors, moving, and exploring. At times, short, educational video clips associated with planned activities will be shown to campers. Additionally, some STEAM lessons will utilize screens as educational tools. On Fridays, JMC Day Campers will watch a camp video that features camp photos taken throughout the week. In total, campers will not receive more than 45 minutes per week of recorded media, such as videos. JMC Day Camp may visit a local movie theater on a Friday field trip to view a movie that is either G or PG rated. Parents will be informed of the movie on the weekly camp schedule.

JMC Staff will review online safe practices with campers throughout the summer. This includes, but is not limited to: privacy (no personal info!), smart sharing (think before posting!), stranger danger (don't meet up, don't share details!), and open communication (tell an adult if uneasy), all while promoting kindness and being a good digital citizen, focusing on strong passwords, private settings, and asking permission before clicking/downloading to keep their digital world secure and positive.

Junior Mountaineers manages risk while allowing campers to challenge themselves both physically and mentally while having fun at camp! Risk management is a partnership between JMC, campers, and parents. This process begins before a camper starts at JMC, with some of the internal systems and risk management strategies outlined in this handbook. Additionally, JMC’s risk management practices are guided by several organizations including State of Colorado Department of Human Services / Office of Early Childhood, Western Colorado University, and a dedicated Child Care Health Consultant.

JMC Staff hold CPR/AED, First Aid, Medication Administration certifications, and are trained in current risk management practices. The staff leading JMC Huts and Expeditions will consist of at least one staff with Wilderness First Responder certification and nurse delegation. JMC also has a Health Care Consultant and staff is required to carry a first aid kit at all times. JMC Huts and Expeditions will carry a satellite phone to be used in emergency situations where traditional cell service is unavailable. This ensures that staff can maintain communication with the JMC Director, emergency services, and parents/guardians if a serious incident, injury, illness, or evacuation occurs during backcountry travel.

In the event of an incident or medical emergency, campers are initially treated by JMC Instructors according to their medical training. JMC Instructors will work in conjunction with the JMC Camp Director and the designated Health Care Consultant. If professional medical attention is required, emergency medical services or higher medical care may be contacted. Depending on the situation, emergency transportation and/or evacuation may occur by emergency transportation vehicles or JMC vehicles. The JMC Director will notify parents of the ill or injured camper as soon as the situation allows. Insurance and the cost of treatment arising out of an accident or injury during a JMC program is the responsibility of the camper’s parents/guardian.

We understand that family emergencies happen. If a parent/guardian needs to contact their child for an emergency, first please contact the JMC Director using 970.943.2109 or the camp cell phone 970.901.0032.

If it is after hours, there will be instructions for how to contact the night time emergency phone number.

In the event of a minor injury (ie – small cuts, scrapes, bumps, insect bites), first aid will be applied by JMC Staff and parents/guardians will be informed via phone call or text message. If the injury is significant but does not require emergency services (ie -sprains, suspected fractures, deeper cuts), other campers will be removed from the injured camper and JMC staff will apply first aid. The JMC Director will be notified and parents/guardians will be contacted promptly about the injury and to discuss next steps (ie – early pick up, medical evaluation, non-emergency transport to a medical facility). If staff is unable to reach a parent/guardian, the emergency contacts will be notified. If the injury requires emergency care, staff will call 911 and administer the appropriate emergency care (ie – epinephrine, rescue inhaler, CPR, first aid), and contact the JMC Director as soon as safely possible. Parent/guardians will be contacted promptly. If a parent/guardian is not present when EMS arrives, a JMC Staff member may accompany the camper to the medical facility until the parent/guardian arrives. The associated financial responsibility for emergency medical services will be on the parents/guardians. Please be sure that emergency contacts are updated as needed.

If a staff member is injured while working an overnight JMC program, they will inform their co-instructors and JMC Director. The JMC staff will work with the JMC Director to determine whether evacuation or medical care is necessary based on the severity of symptoms. The JMC Director will adjust trip leadership and supervision and reassign responsibilities to other qualified staff members to ensure camper safety and program continuity.

The number one concern of JMC is maintaining the health and safety of each camper and staff member. JMC is prepared to work with campers who are in good health. For the health and safety of other campers and staff, please do not send your child to camp when sick. JMC staff will not be allowed to come to work when sick.

If your child is sick prior to the start of a JMC program, please contact the JMC Director. JMC staff will have access to camper medical information and authorizations via the Active registration system. JMC follows the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment “How Sick is Too Sick?” guidelines.

Refunds, Credits, and Transfers

No refunds, credits, or transfers will be provided once the week of camp has begun. Cancellations due to illness or injury prior to the start of camp will be reviewed on an individual basis. A doctor’s note stating that the child should not participate for health reasons is required and must be submitted to the JMC Director. Once the doctor’s note is verified, parents may choose either to transfer their child to another available session or to receive a prorated credit for a future JMC registration.

Mental Health and Emotional Safety

The mental health and emotional safety of JMC participants is just as important as their physical safety. JMC strives to create supportive experiences through positive relationships, open communication, clear boundaries, respect for personal space, and programming that meets individual needs.

Please share any relevant information about your child’s mental health prior to the start of JMC so JMC can be best prepared and equipped with appropriate resources. Understanding the source of a camper’s distress supports better care if a situation arises at camp. To provide additional information beyond what was included in the JMC registration information, please reach out to the JMC Director.

JMC Day Camp and Adventure Day Camp

If your child or a staff member has been diagnosed with a specific illness, please inform the JMC Director immediately so proper precautions can be taken to keep other campers and staff healthy. JMC is required by the State of Colorado to report any student with a communicable disease to the Colorado State Health Department.

If a child becomes sick while at camp, parents or guardians will be called to pick up the child. If staff are unable to reach a parent or guardian, emergency contacts will be called. While waiting to be picked up, the child will be isolated and made comfortable within sight and sound of an adult. If a staff member becomes sick while working JMC, they will inform the JMC Director and will be sent home. Items used by the child or staff member will be disinfected before being used by others.

If a child or staff member is excluded based on symptoms (and not a diagnosed illness), they may return to JMC when symptoms have subsided or when a health care provider clears them or determines the illness is not communicable, provided the child or staff member can participate in routine activities.

JMC Hybrid, Huts, and Expedition Camps

Upon arrival, each child will complete a brief health screening, which includes a review of medical paperwork, required medications, and an overall wellness check. This process helps ensure the health and safety of the entire JMC community. JMC staff will continue to monitor camper health throughout the program.

If a camper develops any illness or condition that may put the community at risk, parents or guardians will be contacted promptly to arrange pick-up. Campers may be excluded from programming for reasons including, but not limited to:

• Fever (or fever within the past 24 hours)
• Temperature of 100.4°F or higher
• Cough, sore throat, or difficulty breathing
• Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Rash or other unexplained symptoms
• Recent exposure to contagious diseases

If a child becomes sick while at camp, the camper will be isolated from the group and made as comfortable as possible while being supervised by a JMC staff member. JMC staff will assess the severity and nature of symptoms and contact the JMC Director for further guidance.

Parents or guardians will be notified of the camper’s condition, location, and planned course of action, which may include continued isolation and monitoring in the field, early pick-up at a designated location, or evacuation. If symptoms worsen or the camper is unable to safely complete the trip, JMC staff will coordinate an evacuation plan with the JMC Director. The evacuation plan may include assisted walking-out, vehicle transport from an accessible location, or emergency response (including Search and Rescue or air evacuation) if required.

If evacuation is necessary, the JMC Director will coordinate with parents or guardians or emergency contacts to determine a meeting location (WCU campus, a medical facility, or another mutually agreed-upon location) for camper pick-up. Any equipment or items used by the camper will be cleaned and disinfected prior to further use.

If a staff member becomes sick while working an overnight JMC program, they will inform co-instructors and the JMC Director. The staff member will self-isolate and work with the JMC Director to determine whether evacuation or medical care is necessary based on symptom severity. The JMC Director will adjust trip leadership and supervision and reassign responsibilities to other qualified staff members to ensure camper safety and program continuity. Any equipment or items used by the staff member will be cleaned and disinfected prior to further use.

All children attending Junior Mountaineers are expected to be fully potty trained. If a camper has an accident, s/he will be provided an extra set of clean clothes from Junior Mountaineers. Their soiled garments will be cleaned with a washer and dryer, if available. If the camp is off campus, the soiled clothes will be placed in a sealed plastic bag, stored out of reach of children, and given to parents during pick up.

For overnight camps, JMC will be practicing Leave No Trace principles and will be packing out all human waste using commercially approved waste disposal bags or WAG bags (waste alleviation and gelling bags). The gelling agent in these bags is designed for safe transport and disposal of human waste in a way that minimizes impact on heavily impacted and sensitive ecosystems. Used bags will be sealed and carried out in an odor proof waste bag until the WAG bags can be properly disposed. JMC will designate a private toileting area that is at least 200 feet away from the trail, campsites, and water sources that is clearly communicated to campers at each overnight location or rest area. Depending on location, a privacy tent may also be utilized. There will be a toileting kit provided that includes:

• Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content
• Toilet paper or wipes
• WAG bags

JMC campers and staff will use hand sanitizer to wash hands when on the trail. At camp, or when water is available, campers will use biodegradable soap and water to wash hands after toileting, before preparing or eating food, after handling fish, wild plants, dirty gear, and after first aid is administered. Hands will be washed at least 200 feet from water sources to protect the environment.

JMC Staff will instruct campers on proper toileting techniques and Leave No Trace principles at the start of each trip which includes respect for the environment, privacy and safety, and hygiene expectations. JMC Staff will ensure that waste is packed out properly, hygiene is maintained (handwashing/sanitizing), and that campers feel safe.

• Certificate of medical exemption signed by an advanced practice nurse, a delegated physician assistant, or a physician licensed to practice medicine or osteopathic medicine in any state or territory of the United States; OR
• Certificate of non-medical exemption with a signature from an immunizing provider in Colorado who is a medical doctor, doctor of osteopathic medicine, advanced practice nurse, delegated physician’s assistant, registered nurse, or pharmacist; OR
• Non-medical exemption certificate from the completion of the CDPHE’s online Immunization Education Module

JMC will be held during all weather, rain or shine. Campers will participate in off-campus walking trips provided that there is no thunder/lightning or a dangerous heat index. In the case of thunder/lightning within 5 miles (25 seconds between seeing lightning & hearing thunder) or a heat index in the danger zone as determined on the below Child Care Weather Watch chart below, Junior Mountaineers will move indoors, gather in shaded/sheltered areas outdoors, and/or utilize Western Colorado University vehicles to transport campers. Children have access to water at all times, and will be encouraged to drink fluids throughout the day.

JMC will spend a large portion of the day outdoors, requiring sunscreen and insect repellent to keep campers well-protected and comfortable during and after camp.

JMC Day Camp & Adventure Day Camp

Please apply sunscreen to your child before arriving at camp each day. Staff will reapply sunscreen after the first two hours and then every 80 minutes during swimming or other water play. JMC provides Rocky Mountain Sunscreen/Coral Isles Sunscreen (SPF 30). If you prefer your child to use a different sunscreen, please send it labeled with your child’s name and give it to staff at drop-off.

For insect protection, JMC uses OFF! Backyard Insect Repellent Family Care under these conditions:

• When mosquitoes are present
• During field trips where ticks or mosquitoes may be a concern
• Applied only to exposed skin and clothing (never near eyes, mouth, or hands)

If you would like your child to use a different repellent, please provide it labeled with your child’s name.

JMC Hybrid, Hut, & Expedition Camp

Families must supply their own sunscreen and insect repellent for overnight campers; both are included on the packing list.

JMC will meet or exceed the state-licensed staff to camper ratios. Campers will be supervised and in the line of sight when indoors and outdoors. Roll call will be taken at the beginning of the camp and headcount will be performed at the start and end of daily transitions.

Below are the maximum staff to camper ratios for the various camp offerings and specific activities.

• Swimming – campers may visit a lake or reservoir during their program. The reservoir/lake location will be listed on the camp schedule/itinerary and distributed to parents at least one week prior to the start of camp. When at a lake or reservoir, all campers will be required to wear a life vest. In addition to JMC Staff, certified lifeguards will be joining the campers while at the lake or reservoir to ensure the highest level of safety while campers enjoy their water activities.
  • JMC Day Camp: will be swimming on Wednesdays at the Gunnison Recreation Center. JMC Staff will have campers change into swimsuits using the bathrooms at camp. On the first swim day that a child attends, the Gunnison Recreation Center lifeguards will conduct a swim test to determine which campers can swim in the deeper lap pool. If a camper attends multiple weeks of camp and didn’t pass the swim test on his/her first day, s/he can re-test with a lifeguard at any point. JMC Staff will be in the pool with campers, playing, and assisting lifeguards with supervising campers in the water. After swimming, campers will change in the family locker rooms at the Recreation Center with staff supervising behavior and assisting campers as needed.

• Off-Campus Trips – many days of camp will include an adventure away from campus. Campers will each have a buddy when walking to or from an off-campus location and staff will be at the front and back of the line. Camper headcounts will occur prior to leaving for the trip, regularly while off-campus, prior to leaving to return to campus, and once back at camp. If the activity includes wheels (bike, scooter, rollerblades, etc), campers will be required to wear a properly fitting helmet at all times. When JMC uses transportation, JMC staff will be riding in the vehicle with the campers and camper to staff ratios will be met at all times. o
  • JMC Day Camp: will be utilizing the Gunnison Valley RTA transportation when visiting the Gunnison Public Library. Friday field trips may utilize the Western Colorado University motorcoach or shuttle, driven by a Western bus driver who has a Commercial Driver License, and/or 15 passenger Western vans driven by JMC staff.
  • JMC Adventure/Hybrid/Huts/Expeditions: programs will utilize 15 passenger Western vans driven by JMC staff.

• Rock Climbing – campers may rock climb at the Western Fieldhouse or outdoors with third party climbing guides. Rock climbing will be listed on the camp schedule/itinerary and distributed to parents at least one week prior to the start of camp.
  • JMC Day Camp: will be rock climbing at the Western Fieldhouse climbing wall on Tuesdays. JMC staff will partner with the Fieldhouse Climbing Staff to ensure climbing wall rules are followed. Junior Mountaineer Staff will be certified to help belay campers as needed and the Climbing Staff will provide instruction to the campers. The instruction will be scaffolded to be educational to new climbers with additional challenges and educational pieces for campers with climbing experience or who attend Junior Mountaineers for more than 1 week throughout the summer. There will be add-on field trip options if a camper would like to rock climb outdoors with Wilderness Pursuits at either Hartman’s Rocks or Taylor Canyon.
  • JMC Adventure/Hybrid/Huts/Expeditions: rock climbing may be one of the outdoor recreation activities associated with camp. If so, the climbing details including location and guide company will be included on the camp itinerary that is distributed to parents prior to the start of camp.

Junior Mountaineers will follow the Western Colorado University Emergency Guide. Camp Staff has been trained in emergency drills and procedures prior to the start of camp. Throughout the summer, Junior Mountaineers will have emergency drills so campers are familiar with emergency procedures. During emergencies, Junior Mountaineers Staff may partner with Athletics Administration and/or Coaching Staff to further ensure the safety of youth campers. In the event of an emergency, it is important that campers follow all directions from Junior Mountaineers and Athletics Staff Members.

If Junior Mountaineers’ facility space is unusable following an emergency event, camps will be cancelled, parents/guardians will be notified, and refunds will be given.

Overnight JMC programs will have access to at least one 15 passenger van at their base camp. If a JMC program is not near their base camp and vehicle when an emergency arises, Emergency Medical Services may be contacted to expedite evacuation from the backcountry and to transport the camper to emergency services.

If Junior Mountaineers discovers a fire, they will activate a fire alarm. In the event of a fire alarm, all campers will immediately evacuate the building to the skate park, south of Paul Wright Gym. Staff will do a sweep of the building to ensure no students are in the bathrooms, and will call 911. At the skate park, Junior Mountaineers Staff will take roll call.

All campers will be evacuated from the building to the skate park, south of Paul Wright Gym for safety precautions as a member/s of Junior Mountaineers Staff attempts to put the fire out. At the skate park, Junior Mountaineers Staff will take roll call. If the skate park is inaccessible, the secondary meeting place will be the south end zone of the football field in the Mountaineer Bowl. If unable to put out the fire, this staff member/s will activate the fire alarm and evacuate the building, joining the Junior Mountaineers Camp. Never use an elevator for evacuation.

Junior Mountaineers will re-enter the building upon authorization from emergency personnel.

If there is wildfire or smoke is smelled, staff members will lead their groups away from the potentially dangerous area. Staff members will contact the JMC Director to communicate any change of plans and help assess the situation. If necessary, parents will be contacted.

In case of severe poor air quality - When the AQI is above 150, program decisions are emailed to families daily by 8am for JMC Day & Adventure Camp and as-needed for the overnight camps. The JMC Director will assess AQI at 7pm the night before camp and by 7am the morning of the program and ongoing as needed. Since AQI can change frequently throughout a day and is location-based, programmatic decisions will be made in coordination with the JMC Director and Athletics Administrative staff. Indoor camp programming may be implemented.

Junior Mountaineers uses a variety of precautions to prevent a missing or lost child (camper who is known to have signed into camp and who is currently unaccounted for). Camp Staff will alert the JMC Director or another member of the Athletics Administrative Team about the missing camper.

As soon as it is discovered or reported that a child is missing, all JMC staff will be immediately notified of the following information:

• Name
• Age
• Approximate height and weight
• Skin and hair color
• Details of what the child was wearing (clothes including the type and color of the child’s shoes and jewelry, identifying features like glasses or braces, and other accessories like a backpack)
• Where the child last seen, doing what, with whom
• What was the child’s disposition before the disappearance: angry, happy, sad?

All available Junior Mountaineer Staff and Athletics Admin Staff will conduct an immediate search of the building and surrounding area using the following guidelines:

• Make sure the scene is safe / secure and note the time
• Hypothesize about where they are likely to be
• Give a shout:
  • Have everyone stand in a circle facing outward
  • o Have them create a megaphone with hands & should “[Participant Name] where are you?”
  • o Stop and listen for at least 30 seconds. Repeat 4 more times.
• Conduct a hasty search:
  • If shouting does not generate response, adults pair up with one wristwatch per team.
  • At least one adult should remain with other participants at all times.
  • o Teams will spend 30 minutes checking all obvious places around camp & in the immediate area looking for signs of the missing participant (footprints, trash, clothing fibers, etc.).
  • o They will then check nearby roads, trails, streams and lakes, lookout points, etc.
• If the camper is not located within 30 minutes, the hasty teams stop searching and gather at basecamp to share info found. JMC Staff will initiate a 911 and/or Search & Rescue call and the in addition to calling the camper’s parents/guardians.

Junior Mountaineers will be transported on Western Colorado University motor coach, shuttle, or 15 passenger vans for field trips and other off-campus camp programs. When being transported, all students will be seated with a seatbelt fastened (except on buses and shuttles that do not have seatbelts). Junior Mountaineers Staff (comprised primarily of Western students) will visually check that all campers are sitting properly and buckled (if applicable) into their seats prior to departure. If traveling in the Western Colorado University vans, all campers under the ages of 9 will be seated in a booster seat. All Junior Mountaineer van drivers (comprised primarily of Western students) have completed training with Western Colorado University. The Western Vehicle Manager and all motor coach and shuttle drivers will have a Commercial Driver License in addition to training with the Western Colorado University Fleet Manager. Camper to staff ratios will be met at all times, including when inside a vehicle.

All of the vehicles Junior Mountaineers may utilize for transportation are regularly maintained and equipped with proper safety equipment by the Western Colorado University Fleet Department. Each vehicle will have the following items, and staff will check they are present before trips:

• Proof of insurance and vehicle registration
• Fire extinguisher
• Hazard triangle
• Tire pressure gauge
• Flashlight
• Hand towels
• Flares
• Duct tape
• First aid kit
• Tire chains

In the event of an emergency (flat tire, car sickness, accident) during transport, the following procedures will be utilized:

• Stop, make sure the scene is safe, make sure campers are supervised by a JMC Staff member and not in danger of becoming victims of a secondary accident
• Call 911 if any injuries or other circumstances dictate
• Turn on hazards and place hazard triangles as appropriate. If a vehicle must be moved, mark location (from the back tire) with chalk if possible
• Provide any necessary first aid, clean-up of sickness, flat tire remedy
• Group uninjured passengers in an area safe from oncoming traffic to await instructions and/or new pick-up.
• Follow Western emergency / accident procedures that are listed in vehicle
• Contact JMC Director
• Campers must be supervised by a JMC Staff member at all times

When JMC Day Camp visits the Gunnison Public Library, the Gunnison Valley RTA transportation will be utilized. JMC staff will be riding on the bus with the campers and camper to staff ratios will be met at all times.

Off-campus travel will be communicated at the time of registration and trip details/itineraries will be included on the camp schedule. By registering and signing off on the parent handbook at registration, parents give permission for their child(ren) to attend the scheduled off-campus travel associated with camp. It is the parent’s responsibility to communicate with JMC Staff in advance if they need to drop off or pick up during an off-campus activity or field trip.

JMC does not allow a child to be transported in a personal vehicle.

JMC Day Camp will have CCCAP camp openings to assist low-income working families with childcare expenses. Children must be under the age of 13 and are required to be U.S. citizens or legal resident aliens. Families receiving assistance are expected to pay a parent fee to the Junior Mountaineers at the first of each month. This fee is from 7 to 14 percent of the household's gross income, plus a small increase for each additional child. For more details about the CCCAP program and to apply, please visit the Gunnison County Child Care Assistance website.

Please note, application and approval into the CCCAP program does NOT reserve a camp spot for your child; camp registration is the responsibility of the parent/guardian. Please contact the camp director to enroll your child into JMC Day Camp for the week/s of their choice.

As a state-licensed program, Junior Mountaineers Staff are mandated reporters and have completed training through Child Protective Services. When a Junior Mountaineers Staff member suspects or has been made aware that a child is being physically, sexually, or emotionally abused, neglected or exploited, they will call the Colorado Child Protection Hotline at 844-264-5437. All calls are confidential and Junior Mountaineers Staff will not inform families when a complaint has been reported.

If you have concerns about Junior Mountaineers and would like to file a complaint against the program, you may contact:

Colorado Office of Early Childhood, Division of Early Care and Learning, Child Care Licensing and Administration at 1575 Sherman Street, Denver, CO, 80203-1714 or call 303-866-5958 or 1-800-799- 5876