Telluride Academy

Staff guidelines and practices

Welcome to summer 2008 at the Telluride Academy. Within this binder you will find new information about Telluride Academy's accepted practices and guidelines as well as evaluation forms, itinerary sheets and maps of the region. In short, this binder should contain everything you'll need for your summer with Academy - please keep it with you! As a valued instructor, you are responsible for learning all of the information contained within and for acting in accordance with the following protocols. We ask that you read through this material carefully and return the included declaration stating that you have done so to the Academy office. As always, if you have any questions or require more information or forms throughout the course of the summer, please contact an administrative staffer for help. It is our goal to provide you with support and back-up as you take on this challenging but rewarding job. Welcome and bienvenidos!

Our Mission Located in the San Juan wilderness, Telluride Academy, a non-profit organization,

provides children and teens with enriching, experiential programs that span the globe. We help to form a reliable inner compass within each camper that guides compassion and

creative learning, responsible choices and environmental stewardship.

Core values and goals

• Enrichment and empowerment through experiential education and adventure • Inclusion of children from all socio-economic backgrounds • Respect and recognition of the unique individual • Responsible environmental stewardship

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About Our Organization The Telluride Academy is a 27-year-old non-profit organization, governed by a board of directors. Each summer, the Academy serves approximately 800 children and teens through more than 100 different programs that range from outdoor enrichment to arts, sciences and adventure. The Academy employs four year-round administrative staff members and more than 60 summer instructors and specialists. Our annual budget is more than $800,000 and the Academy maintains a large tuition assistance fund, more than $100,000, in order to allow all students to attend programs regardless of their financial backgrounds. The Academy owns no vehicles or property, but leases office space and classrooms from the Telluride School District and vans from a transportation company. We run programs on public lands of the USFS, BLM, and other agencies by special permit and also are fortunate to use private lands through the generosity of local property owners. The Telluride Academy is a long-standing, financially sound community non-profit that each summer transforms into one of the Telluride area's biggest operations and also one of the largest youth organizations in Western Colorado. Employee Expectations This summer, you will be responsible for the education and supervision of young children. Parents, administrators, and the board of directors are placing a great amount of trust in you to care for their children and to keep them safe in their outdoor pursuits. We cannot stress enough the importance of the responsibility that is being delegated to you. You have been chosen for this job because we have a great deal of trust and confidence in you, but there are things you must do to maintain those standards. Dress

• Please show up daily dressed in a casual but professional manner; a clean staff shirt or sweatshirt must be worn on the first day of every session.

• Avoid clothing which displays items inappropriate for children, with references to, for example, drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or off-color jokes/remarks

• Appropriate footwear must be worn for specialized activities, i.e.: rock climbing, hiking, and biking.

Attendance

• It is required to show up at work daily on time and finish the daily schedule. • If you must miss work or if you will be late for any reason, you must let Program

Director Luke Brown or the administrative staff know as soon as possible. • Any changes to camp programs from original published schedules must be

prearranged and approved by the program director. Role Model

• Remember, even when you are off work, you are part of a small and close-knit community; don’t ever be caught in a situation where you would not want to be observed by your campers and/or their families. It is always best to avoid having to defend questionable actions.

• Public nudity by students/instructors while with Academy programs is prohibited. 2.

• Men and women are not allowed to sleep in the same tent during Academy overnights.

• Be sure to get plenty of rest the night before camp and maintain a decent level of fitness, as you will need a lot of energy to keep up with your students. When considering a second job keep in mind that the Academy and the safety of its campers should be your No. 1 priority. The more positive energy you can put into your program, the better it will be!

Drugs and Alcohol The use of tobacco, alcohol or any illegal substances is strictly forbidden whenever with campers or on the job with the Academy, as well as anytime on school property. It is also strictly forbidden to be under the influence of any of the above while with campers or on the job. Again, Telluride is a small town, and any unbecoming conduct due to drug or alcohol abuse reflects poorly not only on you, but on Telluride Academy as an organization and could be grounds for dismissal. Any major accident or incident that compromises the safety of campers will be considered cause for drug testing, the results of which could lead to dismissal. Violation of any of the above could be grounds for dismissal without compensation. General Conduct The following are general examples of unacceptable conduct and any of the following may constitute grounds for dismissal:

• Participation in any sexual, romantic, or “special” relationships with campers or junior counselors is strictly forbidden.

• Dishonest, unfair or unprofessional dealings with co-workers, including theft or unauthorized possession of Academy or private property.

• Disclosure of confidential information regarding staff, campers or the Academy. It is illegal to discuss the medical details of others except for on-the-job situations.

• Insufficient, careless, negligent or substandard work performance and the inability or refusal to perform work as instructed.

• Fighting, arguing or inability to get along or resolve differences with others. • Rude or unprofessional behavior while representing the Academy at activities

involving the Academy. • Falsification or omission of records, including but not limited to employee

records, time records, legal documents, professional documents and accounts payable/receivable.

• Violation of federal, state or local laws. • Violation of any Academy practices. • Although not encouraged, relationships between staff members do occur. Please

understand that certain behaviors, such as public displays of affection or public discussions of such relationships or cohabitation, are not permitted and may be misunderstood by campers, parents, and others.

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Scheduling With more than 800 campers and 100 programs each summer, Academy scheduling requires shifting throughout the summer months. Although administrative staff strives to make instructors aware of any switches as soon as possible, please be aware that changes in your schedule - both program and/or co-instructor - are likely. As stated in your contract, should any of our programs not run, you will not be compensated for that program and are not guaranteed employment for that period. Harassment Telluride Academy is committed to maintaining an environment free from all forms of harassment for all members of the Academy community including students, staff, parents and supervisors. The Academy does not tolerate harassment of individuals based on age, color, creed, mental disability, nationality, physical disability, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation or on the basis of any other condition or characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. Harassment of any member of the Academy community is considered serious misconduct and will be subject to strong disciplinary action, including termination if warranted. Conduct that has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individual’s work performance or which creates an intimidating, hostile or offensive learning or working environment is prohibited. In particular, the Academy does not tolerate sexual harassment. Sexual harassment by anyone, whether at the Academy, at work assignments outside the Academy, at Academy-sponsored functions, or elsewhere, is illegal and will not be tolerated. Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to: unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual favors; sexually suggestive remarks, jokes and gestures; or other unwelcome verbal or physical conduct or communication of a sexual nature. Any individual who believes that he or she has been harassed in violation of this policy has the responsibility to discuss it immediately with the executive director or the program director. All discussions will be kept confidential among the administration. Permission Employees agree to give Telluride Academy permission, without any further consideration, to authorize the taking and use of pictures, movies, videos, statements or other forms of publicity for future promotion. Telluride Academy maintains the copyrights on any photos taken by Academy staff while on Academy programs. Staff Events The staff traditionally meets on the Thursday midway through the two-week session to share the week’s stories. The Academy will buy the first round of drinks then everyone is on their own. (Time and place for these gatherings TBA) We will also have an end of the summer party, TBA. In addition, The Academy hosts a series of fundraising events throughout the summer in order to maintain our organization's generous tuition assistance fund for disadvantaged youth. Some of these parties are held in spectacular locations in the Telluride region. We welcome interested staff members who would like to volunteer their time to join us.

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Academy scheduling Daily Schedule 8:25 a.m.: Arrive at Telluride Middle/High School. Use this time to open your classroom, make phone calls, go over camp lists and get organized. Be sure to come prepared with your own lunch, water and necessary gear. Your camp’s itinerary should now be complete and ready to distribute. If you anticipate any changes to the daily plans listed on your itinerary, now is the time to let the administrative office know. 8:45-9:15 a.m.: Students arrive. Plan an early morning activity each day that engage the group as drop-off continues: not all of them will arrive at the same time. Both instructors must be in the room with the kids from 8:45-9:15 a.m., to engage students and answer parent questions. Make sure parents receive completed itinerary. 9:15-9:45 a.m.: At this time, one instructor can tie up loose ends once the parents have left. This is the time to start the day together and discuss the day’s programs. Have some type of morning circle, meeting or briefing so that everyone is clear about the day’s activities. On the first day, make sure your group knows that the Academy office is located on the second floor and is staffed by people that can help them should the need arise. Feel free to take a short field trip to show them where the office is located. On the first day of camp you should also establish your camp rules. Set the first few and let your camp create a few more. This first day of camp is the time to set your expectations for camper behavior; see the Communication with Camper section for ideas on how to do this. 9:45 a.m.-4:30 p.m.: Daily activities: be creative, be safe, and have fun! 4:45 p.m.: Always return to Telluride Middle/High School by 4:45 p.m. Some parents will get very nervous at 5:02 p.m. if their child has not yet returned. If you are going to be unavoidably late, or think there might even be that possibility, call the office and let us know where you are and how late you will be. We will then meet the parents to explain. If you return to school and/or classroom early, be sure to have an organized closing activity that will keep children engaged as parents start to arrive for pick-up. If you are outside during this time, leave a note for parents posted on the door. 4:45-5:15 p.m.: It is very important that both instructors are in their classrooms at this

5. time. Use this time to remind campers of any special gear they’ll need, wrap up any

lessons or discussions, and discuss the next day’s activities. Take the opportunity to promote your camp from within, review what you did that day to give the parents “talking points” with their children. This is your time to finish camp on a high note! Turn in vehicle keys, digitals cameras, clean out your van and we encourage you to turn in your moneybag to the office for safekeeping. Clean up your room and prepare for the next day. Weekly Schedule Typical Telluride Academy programs run Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. with Wednesday overnights although there are deviations – please double check your camp details. For our staff, hours are 8:25 a.m.-5:15 p.m. daily, or until all campers have been picked up by parents and the job is done. Monday: Plan your overnight menu with your students and assign specific food items in writing to each child. Send the child’s food and packing list home with them Monday afternoon. This is a must – it will give the family time to purchase items and pack, making sure your group has everything it needs. (This is the Overnight Form found in the back of your handbook.) Each child’s food should be $5 or less! Tuesday: Programs with double overnights leave Tuesday morning and return on Thursday by 5 p.m. pick-up time. Please note: All Camp Telluride 10-12 groups will have a double overnight the second week of the session. Wednesday: This night is a camping overnight for almost all programs except Explorers (5-year-olds) and a few specialty camps. Thursday: All groups need to return by 5 p.m. for pick-up. You should return to camp early to clean your van at the back of the school, or clean your van on your way back to the school. Your group should help. Vans must be thoroughly cleaned every Thursday and you must receive a sign-off on your van from Field Director Mike Clemens before leaving! A staff meeting will be held every other Thursday evening after camp during the summer. At this time, you will receive your camp assignment, meet with your new co-instructor, and start to plan an itinerary for the next session of camp. Itineraries will need to be signed off by the program director or executive director to be considered complete. Also at this time you will sign up your group for climbing, boating and overnight camp spots.

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How Telluride Academy Works

• Communication (p. 7)

• Logistics (p. 12)

• Gear and equipment (p. 14)

• Land Use: public and private (p.17)

Communication

Helpful hints for communicating with parents and students, and how to resolve issues

Supportive, open communication and cooperation among all employees, parents, campers, and administration is essential to the success of the Academy. Communication with staff and administration: • Employees must speak with good purpose while at camp with the intent of

supporting, not gossiping, laying blame, dominating, justification, or making someone else wrong. Profanity, off-color remarks, or any other inappropriate language must be avoided.

• Good communication practices: Clear up misunderstandings or problems at your earliest convenience; keep lines between you and your co-instructor and the administration open at all times; try to leave personal problems at home so they will not affect you or your group in a negative manner. If you need help doing this, please ask for it.

• In order to make communication with parents smoother, alert the administrative staff immediately if you are in a position where you need to change plans while out in the field. In addition, the program director or executive director must approve changes to itineraries that are known in advance. The administration will then post changes in writing for parents and help instructors relay these messages to all parents.

Communication with parents: • You are required to read the brochure and each of our three camper forms. These

documents will help give you a better understanding of what is expected of you from the parents and the campers. You will be better equipped to answer questions about the organization and be better informed about what programs the Academy has to offer.

• Remember to always keep the Academy’s best interest in mind and represent it in a positive manner.

• You, as instructors, have the most contact with families and are a huge factor in relaying positive messages to parents and getting them involved in our non-profit organization, i.e.: through membership, summer fundraising functions, etc.

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Parent satisfaction clues: Parents want to know what’s happening when their child disappears in a van. Simple reminders that will go a long way … * Distributing itineraries is a must! Remember, families discuss upcoming days and students look forward to certain activities, sometimes for months. Try to follow your schedule to the best of your ability. * Both counselors should be in the classroom between 8:45 and 9:15 a.m. in order to create a team that can both answer parent questions and manage the morning activity with their group. * Any accidents and/or incidents, no matter how minor, should be written up on the forms found in this binder. In order to protect yourself and for the administration to support you, these forms are very important. * If there is any special needs or equipment for upcoming activities, post those needs on the white board outside your classroom; do not rely on verbal messages to parents via students. For example, if you are going rock climbing, remind campers to bring appropriate shoes. Communication with campers On the first day of a session set your ground rules and expectation for camper behavior. Here are a few good ideas to help get the ball rolling:

• Have the campers decide on three rules for the camp, discuss why they are important and have them sign the “camp rules.”

• Create a camp pledge • Have students draw up their own camper contracts • Review the participant/parent behavior and expectations (see camper forms) • Be creative and have fun with it!

Reasons for misbehavior If you can identify the reason behind your camper’s misbehavior, you will know better how to handle the situation. Here are some common reasons for misbehavior: • A desire for attention • Frustration • Homesickness • Illness/exhaustion • Conflict with another camper or staff • Problems from home • Established behavior patterns

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Disciplining styles The Academy prohibits using corporal punishment as a method to discipline campers. “Corporal punishment” means the intentional infliction of physical pain upon the body of a minor child as a method of changing behavior. We encourage you discipline in the following style: • Use positive reinforcements • Identify misbehavior and explain why it is unacceptable • Compliment and reward your camper for a job well done, i.e., “Josh is doing such a

good job sharing, he can make the first s’more” • Understand the reason for misbehavior; this will help you to figure out what the

camper needs. Is it affection, help with a problem, food, water, shade, etc.? • Ask pointed guided questions like: What happened? What did you want? What did

you do to get it? How did that work? How did it make you feel? What are some other choices you could have made? What is the best choice?

• The goal is to get campers to understand their mistakes and support them in creating their own solutions so that they take responsibility for their own actions.

Discipline We are here to help make a difference in the lives of children. We are not in the business of kicking kids out of camp. If a student is ruining the experience for the rest of the group, however, then this behavior needs to change or the camper needs to leave the program. If a camper does not follow the rules and the offense is severe, then the process goes as follows: 1. First time: sit with the camper, discuss the problem, and briefly write up the incident on an incident report form; relay the situation to the parents and the program director. 2. Second time: write up the incident again on the same form; meet with the camper, administrators and parents at the end of the day to discuss the situation and consequences which could include leaving the program. 3. Third time: Remember to document the incident on the same incident form, meet with the camper, program director and the parents and make sure that everyone understands either one: why leaving the program is the only option or two: why a rare fourth and final chance will be given. 4. Items that are grounds for immediate dismissal are as follows: Use or possession of drugs or alcohol Use of tobacco products Physical or mental abuse or harassment of another person Purposeful destruction of property or nature

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Things to remember:

Don’t take misbehavior personally You are the adult - always remain calm, keep strong emotions in check

Be fair Listen

Be a role model - don’t scream or use foul language Group situations Keeping track of your campers and knowing where they all are 100 percent of the time is critical. It is your responsibility to make sure each and every camper is accounted for all of the time, wherever you go, whatever you do. Every time you get in the van you need to count your campers. Every time you arrive somewhere, either walking or driving you need to count your campers. During activities you need to constantly be counting heads. Different ways to count campers: (These are just a few ideas; add your own creative ideas …)

• Have students form a sentence with each camper being responsible for a word in the sentence. When you begin the sentence if a word is missing, you know a camper is not there. This is a fun activity to do the first morning of camp.

• Have the group line up in order of height, birthday, age, etc. • Take or sing a roll call • Use the buddy system; make sure everyone’s buddy is accounted for. • Count off; give each student a number and have him or her count off.

Communicating with Parents

As outdoor leaders in a youth program, the Academy staff has the responsibility of not only keeping all participants safe, but also to inform and engage parents or other family members when managing situations. It is crucial to understand that parents are crucial stakeholders in our program and communicating and understanding family expectations is one key to communication management. It is easy to forget that family members and Academy staff will see the world of participants and children through very different lenses. Situations that are considered routine for you as an outdoor leader are often not within the experience of parents and family members. This, aided with either a real or perceived lack of communication, can result in heightened anxiety and/or a misunderstanding under the best of circumstances. When looking at communication, regardless of the format, there are generally two types, anticipated or unanticipated. Anticipated Communication: *Know your facts.

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*Be conscious of your Tone of voice. Be clear and concise and pay attention to the pace of the message.

*Control the conversation.

Ask frequently for questions. This will help ensure that the parent understands what you are explaining to them.

*Create a Communication Plan / Get on the same page “Let’s check-in tomorrow morning” Unanticipated Communication: *Listen more than you talk *Remember that you are working with limited information Don’t make hasty judgments or decisions *It is OK to admit that you do not know the answer Don’t fake it! It will come back to you… *Know how to end the conversation *Show appreciation for their concern *FOLLOW UP! Do what you say you are going to do. Create and follow a plan. In the rare case that you find yourself the target of extreme frustration and anger from a parent or family remember, it is important to remember the following: Do: *Acknowledge the emotion *Identify the focus of the anger *Legitimize if appropriate Don’t: *Dismiss the anger or the person *Refute the focus of the anger *Act Defensively Always remember that if and when a tense or challenging situation occurs, to communicate it to the office. Never feel like you are alone in any situation. We are here to support and assist you.

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Logistics

Camp Budgets Each group receives a camp bank that varies between $125 and $250 per week, depending on the program, to be used at the discretion of the co-instructors. You will receive the first half of your bank on the first day of each week of the session and funds should stay in the bank bag in your backpack at all times. Instructors are charged with accounting for all funds spend by collecting a receipt after each purchase. Because of our non-profit status, Academy purchases are tax-exempt and you can avoid tax by giving the following number: Telluride Academy tax-ID # is: 84-0945670.

• Your bank can be used in a variety of ways: This money must cover gas for vehicles (keep in mind how expensive gas is right now and budget accordingly, it might mean sticking closer to home), art supplies (that the Academy does not already have), ice cream, extra supplies for the overnight, campsite fees, etc. If you want a “big ticket” activity for your group, for example, figure out that cost and then work back from there.

• It is acceptable to spend the entirety of your bank but that does not necessarily

create a better program for students.

• Return your financial report form and any extra money at the end of each session. You will not receive your paycheck until this form is filled out and handed in at the office. The necessary form is located near the back of this binder.

Paydays All summer instructors are paid on Fridays mid-session: June 8, June 22, July 6, July 20, August 3, August 17 and August 31 for Session 6 and bonuses. Paychecks will not be distributed until all required paperwork has been turned in.

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Use of School Classrooms Each summer, the Telluride Academy leases nearly all of the classrooms of the Telluride Middle/High School, which is a great privilege and one that we could lose if we treat the premises irresponsibly. In order to maintain a good relationship with the school district and with district teachers, please take responsibility for the room that you are assigned each particular session. Anything that belongs to a teacher that is left in the classroom is strictly off limits – we will receive reports if even small items are borrowed or moved. If you need materials, please visit the art room, staff room, or check with the office. Your classroom should stay organized. It is up to you, your co-instructor and your students to keep your classroom clean - you are the daily janitors!

• Please put a tarp on the floor while doing any art project. • Any snacks and/or lunch should be eaten outside if possible. • Be sure windows are closed each weekend. • No art projects involving dye, clay, glue, or other gooey carpet-destructive

materials in the classroom – use the art room or sidewalks for these projects. • Students are never allowed beyond the double doors to the school office area.

Staff Room The staff room houses additional supplies and equipment you may need this summer as well as a mailbox for each staff member. Check your mailbox for paychecks, cash tips from parents and any updated information you need. This room is only for and to be used by Academy employees. There is also a bulletin board for sharing great places to go or information with the rest of the staff. The staff room will also house a Xerox machine to run off itineraries for parents and make additional copies of any forms included in this binder that you may need throughout the summer. This is a lounge and office for your use but should not be used as a lounge during the camp day. Art Room/Art Supplies The Academy uses the high school art room each summer. We fill it with supplies at the beginning of the summer and re-stock it with materials at the halfway point of summer. It is all of our responsibility to keep this room clean and organized – groups should clean up after completing their project. Each female instructor will create an art box that they will keep with them in their classrooms. Art boxes can contain: markers, crayons, scissors, glue, pencils, pens, etc. We will also have ideas for specific projects and ask administrative staff for ideas if you are stuck!

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Gear and equipment Telluride Academy provides all equipment necessary to run a successful program. We have tents, stoves, tarps, coolers, cookware, water jugs, etc., available in our storage shed which is located behind the Telluride High School. We realize that gear and equipment can become ripped, torn, dirty and broken throughout the course of a summer, but ask that you take care of this equipment as if it were your own: keep items clean and in good condition. In the event of lost equipment, it is your responsibility to replace the item. The Academy employs a Field Director (Mike Clemens) who will check out and monitor all gear signed out by instructors. Gear Issued Female Instructors: 1 First Aid Kit:

• Band Aids (30) • Gauze (2 rolls) • Iodine swabs (6) • Ice Pack (1) • Burn Wrap (1) • Tefla Pads (3) • Tape (1 roll) • Children’s Benadryl (1) • Ace Bandage (1) • First Aid Cream (1 tube) • Butterfly Bandages (5) • Gloves (2 pair) • Tweezers (1 pair) • Safety pins (5) • 5 ml irrigating syringe (1) • Trauma Shears (1) • First Aid Kit Checklist • Non-Adhesive Dressing (5) • Anti kit (1 mg/1cc vile of epinephrine and a 1cc syringe) • 1 Whistle • Vet Wrap (1) • Green Soap Sponges (4) • Written and oral SOAP notes

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1 Camp Kit • Spade, bug spray • Trash bags, Ziploc bags • T.P., antibacterial waterless soap (in large Ziploc baggie) • Cord, duct tape • Small strainer

1 Dish Set • Large pot, Small pot • Fry pan, mixing bowl • Cutting board, strainer

1 Utensil Set • Can opener, knife • Spatula and spoon • Hot mitt, lighter • Sponge, bio soap (in plastic baggie) • Salt and Pepper (in plastic baggie)

1 Arts and Crafts Box Male Instructors: 1 Camp Stove with propane 2 Coolers 2 Water Jugs 4 Three-person Tents 2 Dish Tubs for washing station 2 Dry Boxes (dish set, camp kit and utensil set fit into one dry box; second is for story dry food for overnights) 1 Tarp 1 Van Rack cover (netting) 1 Roll table Gear issued to both instructors One 15-passenger van is issued per camp per session and they need to be thoroughly washed and vacuumed each Thursday or at the end of a program. On occasion we will require that you share a van with another camp group, and van assignments will likely be switched each session. For these reasons, it is important that vans are cleaned and cleared out of all personal and camp gear, and has a full gas tank for the start of each new session.

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Cell phones The Academy will determine which co-instructor’s personal cell phone will be used case of emergency; that instructor will be reimbursed $15 per session for cell phone use paid at the end of the summer. Although cell phone coverage can be spotty in the Telluride region, we ask you to keep your emergency cell phone on or check messages regularly in order to stay in touch with the office. Students are asked to leave their cell phones at home and we also ask you not to take or receive personal calls during your workday. Please be conservative and call the office if you have any kind of emergency, problem, or if you think you will be late returning to the school. Backpacks Fanny packs or a personal backpack needs to be with you at all times. In your pack, you should have: A first aid kit, a charged cell phone, the bank bag with money and all your camper medical release forms. First Aid Kits Your first aid kit needs to be with you at all times – we can’t stress this enough! A first aid kit that’s even just a little bit out of reach from you while in the field could mean the difference in a student’s health. Do not leave your first aid kit in the van when you are on a hike or out in the field. Always keep it with you! Female instructors are in charge of restocking and maintaining first aid kits to the levels of the list shown above. Male instructors need to be ready to use the kit, know where it is at all times and know what is contained in the kit. Please keep your first aid kit neat and tidy; always throw away first aid trash and remember to re-stock! Gear Problems An Academy gear person or program outfitter will be available each morning at the high school, usually in the gear shed located behind the school. In addition to vehicle maintenance and gear check-out, this person wants to know about your gear problems as they arise so they can fix, order parts, replace hopelessly lost gear or add to our inventory as needed. The gear outfitter will generally be available in the mornings beginning at 8:30 a.m. and in the afternoons on Thursdays and Fridays as programs end. In the staff room there will be a gear mailbox, in which you can leave messages or questions about gear for our outfitter.

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Land Use U.S. Forest Service: Special Use Permit

Any outfitter or guide who uses public lands for commercial use – and that’s Telluride Academy - must obtain a special use permit from the United States Forest Service. By doing so, the Forest Service, or USFS, generates revenue for various trail and campground improvement projects. It also allows federal land managers to monitor responsible use by various organizations, either businesses or non-profits. As more and more outfitters and businesses cater to clients seeking outdoor activities, these permits become increasingly difficult to obtain. It has taken the Telluride Academy many years and much good will to obtain such an extensive network of permits that are absolutely integral to our program programming – for this reason, it is vital that we do everything in our power to treat the lands with respect, stay within the boundaries of our permit areas and ensure that our permit will be renewed for future generations of students.

Two things that threaten our permits:

• Irresponsible use and/or irresponsible impacts of public lands • Traveling outside of our permitted boundaries

The section on outdoor ethics that follows was put together largely to make sure we are all teaching and using low impact skills. Teaching responsible environmental stewardship is one of the founding goals of the Telluride Academy and also shows the Forest Service that we are responsible in our use. Remember, federal lands belong to all of us. It’s up to us to teach and practice treading lightly. The areas in which we are allowed to operate activities like camping or hiking are outlined in our permit; we will go over these areas in staff training. Conducting activities outside our area is illegal and could threaten the future of permits. Because of this fact, it is important for you as a field instructor to know where these areas are. If there is an area that you would like to visit but are uncertain if it is included in our permit, check with the office first! Do not visit areas that fall outside of our permits with students; please ask the office if you have any questions or need alternatives. For 2007, the Academy has been allocated about 2,000 camper days. We spend approximately one-third of our total time on Forest Service lands. In order to keep track

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of our use on Forest Service land and how many remaining days we have, we ask you to fill out Land Use reports each session. Land Use reports are included in this binder. Public Lands The other two-thirds of our time is spent on private property, public lands like local or state parks or national parks that sometimes charge an entrance fee, and other public lands managed by agencies like the Division of Wildlife or Bureau of Land Management. If you hire an outfitter for trekking or rafting you will be working under their permit but will still need to report these days to the Academy. Academy groups can always visit camping and hiking sites that are open to the public (sometime fees are charged; Mesa Verde National Park, for example.) However, we do strive to go places where the campers are not likely to visit with their parents in order to make their Academy experience unique. It is OK to use public places on occasion, but remember our goal is to get the camper off the beaten path.

Colorado Department of Wildlife The areas we can use that our managed by the Colorado Department of Wildlife are Miramonte Reservoir near Norwood and Woods Lake accessed from the Down Valley area of the Telluride region. If you would like to do any fishing on these lands or crawdaddying, anyone over 18 years of age (instructors) are required to hold a Colorado State Fishing License. They are available at any local gear store or gas station. We are not allowed to overnight camp at Woods Lake but camping at Miramonte Reservoir is OK.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) The Telluride Academy holds a permit for BLM lands much like our USFS permit. However, the BLM requires that we apply separately through each BLM field office in Colorado and Utah. The permit that applies to the largest amount of our programs is the Moab BLM permit. Please obtain a copy of any needed permits before you travel to the Moab area or any BLM area (Paradox, Rabbit Valley, Unaweep, or Grand Junction area etc.) and make sure you understand where we are permitted to go in Utah. Private Lands During staff training we will highlight the amazing private lands that Academy families and friends have donated for student use. Their generosity allows the Academy to explore spectacular areas that we would otherwise not have access to. If you would like to use any of the lands described below you need to sign up for that property at the Thursday evening staff meeting. Here are just some of the lands we use – there are many more!

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• The Herndon Beef Cattle Ranch cabin: a wonderful overnight spot near Norwood

with views of Lone Cone and close to Miramonte Reservoir. The Herndons ask that we don’t use the cabin; but camping with tents is fine. The Academy places an outhouse on the property for the summer. This is also home to our low ropes course.

• Lisa Knight’s property on Hastings Mesa is available for overnights. Please call in advance at 728-9748.

• Craig Jackmans’s Iron Springs Mesa schoolhouse sits on a remote mesa between Telluride and Ridgway. It is a historic building, fully restored, and the mesa is great for bike riding. We place an outhouse on the property for the summer. Mesa Bike camps have priority use of this location. The gate combo is 2204; key for the schoolhouse is under watertank.

• Gold King Basin just above Alta Lakes is available for camping through an easement with the Nature Conservancy and the Academy; access is great – this is a hidden gem for camping. Also, Wildboy Lake in this same area.

• The Loomis Land on Species Mesa: A pond, field, woods and the Academy will erect two teepees on the property this summer.

• Steve Smith’s Land on Species Mesa: Great spot with rain shelter for young ones; very close to Loomis Land – sneak over and spy on that camp!

• Holstrom’s Organic Farm on Hastings Mesa. You can use this land for day use or overnights. Hastings Mesa is a beautiful area very close to Telluride.

• Whipple Mountain campsite in Aldasoro, near airport, very close to Telluride. Or Priest Lake just past Mountain Village. Both are car camping spots but very close to town and good for younger groups.

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Telluride Academy Practices

• Medical Practices (p. 20)

• Water/Lightning Safety (p. 24)

• Outdoor Ethics (p. 26)

• Vehicle Use (p. 30)

Medical Practices The Telluride Academy strongly believes in erring on the conservative side with all medical emergencies. That means that any injury more serious than minor cuts, twists, bruises, stomach and headaches should be evacuated. With any life-threatening situation, we expect you to call 911. All Telluride Academy instructors are required to carry current certification in wilderness first aid training. The Academy consults with a physician who specializes in high-altitude medicine and is available for situational questions. We also hire summer staff based on our belief that they will use good judgment and keep a cool head in an emergency situation. We ask all instructors to maintain close contact with the administrative office in any emergency situation. This should be your first or second call. By contacting the office, we can quickly get your group the support it needs, meet you in the field or at a medical center, contact family members and begin to fill out appropriate accident forms. Telluride Academy administrative office: 970-728-5311 Action Plan When you receive your instructor pairing during a Thursday evening staff meeting, one of the things you should immediately do is determine which of you has more experience with medical judgment calls. The most experienced instructor will make the medical calls, should any be needed. Instructors with WFR or EMT certifications receive more pay in their second year than those without it and should automatically be designated as the person making medical calls. If each of you has WFA, then you may decide to use a team approach in making the correct medical calls. Always be cautious. Your camp folder contains a Camper Medical Form for each camper with very important medical health information like allergies or medical conditions. You must have these forms with you at all times and must have one form for each student. You cannot request medical care for a child without parental consent. For this reason, you will never leave the school without all your medical releases. Please double check.

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If there is a medical emergency needing Emergency Medical Services: 1. Staff 1 who witnesses the accident, informs staff 2, then assists victim 2. Staff 2 calls 911 and checks on safety of rest of group. 3. Staff 2 then assists Staff 1 with the victim 4. Both staff assist victim until EMS has arrived 5. Call the Academy office. Administrators will call parents and decide on any further plans of action. Do not attempt to call the parents yourself in medical emergencies. 6. Academy will follow up with you as soon as possible with a family plan. If there is an injury which is not an emergency but still requires medical attention: 1. Tend to injury and continue to monitor well-being of the group as a whole. 2. One instructor should call Academy office so they can confirm your plan of action and decide who should contact the family. Chain of command for emergency phone calls, 24 hours a day: Telluride Academy administrative office: (970) 728-5311 Executive Director Emily Dresslar: Cell: (970) 729-3550 (Telluride) Program Director Luke Brown: Cell: (970) 708-0578 (Telluride) Finance Director Larry Rosen: Cell: (970) 729-0085 Home: 728-3097 (Ophir) Assistant Program Director Teresa Barron: Cell: 253-632-5590 (Telluride) Phone numbers for air rescue, hospitals and clinics in the surrounding areas: Telluride: Telluride Medical Center, 970-728-3848 (ER, 24-hours) Location: 500 W. Pacific Ave., downtown Telluride, across from Elks Lodge Cortez: Southwest Memorial Hospital, 970-564-2025 (ER, 24-hours) Location: 1311 N. Mildrid Street, Cortez. (From Main Street, north of the Visitors Center) Durango: Mercy Medial Hospital, 970-382-1100 ER: 800-345-2516 Location: 375 E. Park Ave (from Main Street head north toward Silverton) *In mid-June, new hospital location: South of town on highway 550 toward airport and Bayfield. Grand Junction:

• St. Mary’s Hospital: Western Colorado’s largest hospital. Located downtown Grand Junction at the corner of 7th and Patterson. 970-244-2551 (ER, 24-hours)

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• Community Hospital of Grand Junction: 970-256-6404 (ER, 24-hours), 2021 N.

12th Street, downtown Grand Junction next to Mesa State College. Moab: Allen Memorial, 435-259-7191 (ER, 24-hours) Location: From I-70 take first right after the Maverick gas station, hospital on left. Montrose: Montrose Memorial Hospital, 970-240-7180 (ER, 24-hours) Location: Past the Safeway heading to Main St. Look for hospital sign on right Naturita: Southwest Basin Clinic, 970-865-2665 Norwood: Uncompahgre Medical Clinic, 970-327-4233 Go Fast or Go Slow? Again, the Academy wants all instructors to err on the side of caution should any medical emergency or situation take place. We want to evacuate any student with more than a minor injury and call 911 if the situation is life threatening. If you have a question about whether or not to evacuate, call the Telluride Academy office or on-call administrator on your cell phone. We would like you to evacuate any camper that has more then a minor injury. How you evacuate falls under two categories: “Go Fast” and “Go Slow.” If there is an emergency, we expect you to call 911 and use your first aid knowledge to treat the camper. If you think a patient should not be moved, do not move them. Call 911 and have medical personnel come to your group. The following are guidelines for evacuating a student for medical care: “Go Fast” Evacuations

• Life threatening issues including airway, breathing, and circulation • Spinal immobilization • Loss of consciousness • Shock • Third-degree burns and any burns to hands, face and genitals • Broken femur: Traction and call 911 • Allergic reactions: Any type of Anaphylaxis shock or chance of loss of breathing. • Heat stroke • Dislocations: Only replace a dislocation if you are more than two hours from

medical attention. 22.

• In nearly all cases you will immediately head to a clinic or hospital. (This is not life threatening, but the person likely is in a lot of pain)

“Go Slow” Evacuations

• Wounds: Anything that needs a stitch or any cut you can open up and look inside. Anything that you think looks worse then a minor abrasion or cut or anything that you think could scar. Be conservative.

• Burns: Any burn with a blister covering 1 percent or more of a camper’s total body surface. (1 percent = palm of campers hand)

• Broken bones: Any injury that has bruising, swelling and point specific pain. • Sprains and strains: Any injury with evidence of damage, i.e., swelling and

bruising. • Altitude: With Ataxic (inability to coordinate muscular movements) or trouble

with breathing, evacuate. If the camper is really uncomfortable, bring them to lower altitude and see if they feel better.

The Academy has an admirable safety record because our staff is smart, swift and well prepared. We cherish our safety record and we count on all of you to uphold it. Constant supervision and good judgment calls make this happen, year after year. Here are some tips and guidelines to follow when faced with an emergency situation:

• Centering and positive group dynamics should be practiced in case of a medical emergency.

• Everyone must stay calm and remember to breathe. • Your good judgment and knowledge are tested as you make the call between

calming a child whose symptoms are more psychological than medical and preparing for a trip to the ER with a child whose condition is at all doubtful to you.

• Remember to talk about and process the situation with the other students. • If there is an accident, remember to let other parents know exactly what happened

so the story doesn’t get blown out of proportion across the dinner table. Make sure to tell the Academy office so that we can ask the parent who calls with concerns.

• You will be restocking your medical kit every time you use it. The one thing you forget to replenish will be the one thing you will need in an emergency. It is negligent not to have a fully stocked kit.

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Water/Lightning Safety Swimming

• Children can never be by or in water unless an instructor is within 10 feet. • Children under 7 years old under can only be in water up to their knees and must

be supervised by both staff members at all times. This means no Ouray Hot Springs!

• Children 7 years old and over must be supervised when swimming by both instructors and a supervising lifeguard if at a public pool.

• One staff member should enter the water first and check for hazards. • Meet with campers: establish rules and boundaries before any swimming activity. • Once safe, one staff member will serve as the lookout while anyone is in the

water. The other staff member will either look out as well or supervise from the water.

• No diving or jumping into natural waters at any time for any reason. • The Academy will only use public pools staffed with certified lifeguards when

using public facility or pool. Boating All boating, including canoes and rowboats, must wear a life jacket on at all times.

* For day canoe programs with the Academy you must be under the direction of our certified canoe staff. * For all rafting or kayaking on whitewater, the Academy will only subcontract guides that are properly certified for these programs.

In the case of a water emergency: Staff 1: Who witnesses the accident will inform the other staff member of the emergency and then assist the victim. Staff 2: Will clear the rest of the group from the water and call 911 if necessary. Staff 2: Assist the first staff member with the victim. Staff 1 and 2: Assist victim until EMS arrives or plan evacuation. Call Academy at this time.

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Camping practices for lightning storms:

• Remember, preparedness is your best tool: set up camp early. • If a lighting storm begins after camp has been set, get into van and seek safety.

Most storms will pass quickly and then you can go back to camp. • If a lightning storm strikes, and no camp has been set, leave area and either wait

for storm to pass and go back to original campsite or find alternative site. Don’t just “wait it out”- fill this time with dinner or an activity.

• Prior to any location change, you must notify the office or the on-call administrator so we can pass along word to parents.

• If lightning storm is relentless, call the on-call Academy person for possible shelter alternatives.

Lightning Some helpful hints:

1. If you are caught above the treeline when lightning approaches, descend quickly; avoid isolated trees. It is better to run into a forest.

2. Electrical storms can also develop in the night. To lower your odds of being struck, don’t pitch your tent near the tallest trees in the vicinity.

3. Hikers should move quickly into a forest if a car or shelter is not near. 4. Drop metal objects like packs with internal or external metal frames. 5. Get off horses and bikes. 6. If you are caught in an open field, seek a low spot. Crouch with your feet together

and head low. Spread out as a group. 7. If someone is struck: People who have been hit by lightning carry no electric

charge and can be safely attended to. Also, victims who appear dead can often be revived. If the person is not breathing, begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. If a pulse is absent as well and you know CPR, begin CPR.

8. Don’t sit or lie down - these positions provide much more contact with the ground, providing a wider path for lightning to follow. If you are with a group and the threat of lightning is high, spread out at least 15-feet apart to minimize the chance of everyone getting struck.

9. Don’t return to an open area too soon - people have been struck by lightning near the end of the storm, which is still a very dangerous time.

10. Swimmers, anglers, and boaters should get off lakes or rivers and seek shelter when storms approach. Drop any fishing rods. Boaters who cannot get off the water before the storm hits should crouch low. Once on land, get at least 100 yards away from shore.

11. When seeking shelter, never go into a cave. 25.

Outdoor Ethics and Camping Guidelines Introduction/Philosophy One of the most important aspects of our work at the Academy concerns the fact that we are stewards of the land and we want to teach that ethic to the next generation. Since more and more people venture into the wilderness each year, low impact practices have become vital to the survival of our wild lands. That is why we have established protocols for our camping groups that will not only prove our commitment to the environment, but will ensure that the next generation carries on that commitment as well. The following ideas come from the general philosophy being taught across the country known as the “Leave No Trace” campaign. They are guidelines to be used religiously, but always have room for improvement. Be considerate of others

• Respect other visitors and protect the quality of their experiences. • Be courteous; yield to other users on the trail. • Take breaks and camp away from other visitors. • Let nature’s sounds prevail; avoid loud voices and noises.

Hike and camp on durable surfaces Trampling by humans is the most troublesome issue associated with trail problems such as erosion and plant damage in wilderness areas Walk single file in the middle of the trail, even when wet or muddy. When hiking on switchbacks do not allow students to cut the switchbacks. Durable surfaces include established trails and campsites, rock, gravel, dry grasses or snow. Selecting a campsite Camping is responsible for the majority of recreational impacts to our wild lands. When choosing a campsite that is not in a designated campground, keep the following in mind:

• Camp at a well-worn site to keep surrounding areas from increased impact. • When in a pristine area, camp in a place that has never been used before. • Avoid staying in even a lightly used area to give that spot time to heal. • Camp at least 200 feet away from lakes, streams, and rivers. • Keep campsites small, focus activity where vegetation is absent.

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Campfires In the arid West, fire bans are a very real possibility. In some case, entire counties or even states ban nearly all kinds of fires, even grills. Always check the area you are camping to see if campfires are permitted. If campfires are acceptable, please remember that they can cause lasting impacts to the backcountry.

• Use a camp stove for cooking instead of a fire • Where fires are permitted, use established fire rings or fire pans. • Keep fires small, only use sticks from the ground that can be broken by hand or

bring your own firewood, do not strip trees of their branches. • Burn all wood and coals to ash, put out campfires completely, then scatter cool

ashes in the fire ring. • Do not burn trash of any kind. • Break down existing fire rings if more than one exists in same area

Cooking Once you have established a campsite and decided to have a fire or not, it is time to choose a site for the kitchen.

• Try to place the stove on a rock outcrop or other resilient surface and again use an area that has already been impacted. Do not cook on coolers or dry boxes. Use roll tables.

• Avoid dropping food on the ground but if you do, be sure to pick up any crumbs or food particles and place them in your outgoing trash. A tarp under your kitchen area will help.

• Birds and animals can become so dependent on scrounging for food scraps at popular campsites that they are no longer capable of hunting for their own food.

• Food also attracts other possibly unwanted animals into camp, not to mention the fact that it can make a campsite ugly and unattractive for the next group.

Cleaning

• When cleaning up dishes, scrape any leftover food into the trash. Do not wash them directly in a lake or stream!

• Heat some water on the stove for wash water. Add a tiny amount of biodegradable soap to the wash water. Use another container of water for rinsing.

• Strain both the wash and rinse water. • If there is an established fire ring, strain the water into the pit, or dig a small sump

hole in which to capture the strained water. • You may also use the “spray method” where after straining, wastewater is spread

out over a large area rather than concentrated into a sump, at least 200 feet from 27.

water, camp, and trails. In the desert, the method preferred is the spray method. • Any food particles left over in the strainer must be emptied into the trash and

carried out. • Again, wash water and soap do not go into the water sources! Food particles do

not get dumped out with the wash water and left behind! • When kids brush their teeth, spit toothpaste into the sump or fire pit as well. Be

sure to fill in and cover up the sump hole before you leave camp. Trash It should go without saying to pack out what you pack in.

• This should also include litter that has been left by others. This principle goes beyond leaving a camp as you found it, but instead leaving it better than you found it.

• Make sure you always have a trash bag with you for cleaning up after lunch. Trash is much easier to manage if it is all kept in one bag.

• Be sure to let the children know why it is important (aside from just aesthetics), not to leave litter behind.

Food storage In order to eliminate the temptation for bears or other critters to come into camp, it must be kept clean from trash and food scraps.

• Have a designated kitchen and eating area to keep scraps and associated food smells concentrated in one place.

• No food should be allowed in the tents at any time; a black bear approaching a tent is a very real possibility in Colorado.

• When you are car camping, all group food, stoves, pots and pans, and trash need to be stowed away and closed into the vehicle at night, or while you are away from camp for the day.

• While in the backcountry, food should be hung from a tree in “bear bag” fashion by using some rope and nylon stuff sacks at least 100 feet from your campsite.

Human waste Since we camp in large groups, the way we manage and dispose of waste has become a major concern. When camping in a designated facility, be sure to use the outhouses provided. Each group will have a latrine kit for the overnights which will include TP, a trowel, a large Ziploc bag for used TP, and a bottle of antibacterial waterless soap for hand washing. If there is no outhouse at your campsite, there are basically two ways of dealing with your group’s poop.

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1. Individual cat holes can be dug but must be at least 200 feet away from any water source, campsite, or trail. For maximum decomposition, the hole must be 4-8 inches deep. After doing duty, fill in the hole with the remaining dirt and throw the used TP into the zip lock bag. Do not leave toilet paper behind, or burn it, always carry it out!

2. You can also opt to dig a group latrine, which impacts one area with one big hole as opposed to lots of little cat holes. A latrine will also be your best bet if staying in a site for more than one night. Make sure it is 200 feet away from any water source, campsite, or trail. It must be at least one foot deep. Soil should be thrown in the hole after each use and be completely filled in when accumulation comes within 4-6 inches of the surface.

Establish an area next to the latrine (or other area if doing cat holes) to house the TP (which should be in a zip lock baggie), zip lock bag for used TP, and soap for hand washing. After taking care of businesses, put the used TP in the zip lock, and then use the waterless antibacterial soap to clean hands. When peeing, you should also go at least 200 feet away from any water source, and try to avoid vegetation as urine can turn it brown. Hygiene In order to keep germs and parasites from spreading through camp, it is extremely important for everyone to wash their hands regularly using antibacterial soap of some type. Waterless soap is easy. Hands must be washed after every visit to the bathroom, and before preparing or handling food. Remember to go light on the soap; the less soap you use the better.

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Vehicles Telluride Academy vehicle use Telluride Academy vehicle training and protocols have been designed using National Safety Council Defensive Driving Standards, the Colorado Department of Education Rules & Regulations regarding transportation and NOLS Transportation Policy. Instructors will be trained using the National Safety Council Defensive Driving Course, Coaching the Van Driver II. In each vehicle, you’ll find a Rules of the Road binder, which includes a van log that you’ll fill out each day, accident procedures and instructions, copy of insurance cards and instructions on changing a flat tire. Explanation of use Though Telluride Academy operations are based out of the Telluride Middle/ High School, the Telluride region, including its natural resources and ecosystems, provides a unique classroom, inspiring innovative programming. Telluride Academy programs rely on the use of vehicles to access this classroom making van use crucial to the successful execution of Telluride Academy’s mission. Average program sizes are 12 students and have a minimum of 2 instructors with an average vehicle capacity of 15 passengers. Vehicle fleet The Telluride Academy leases 2006 GMC Chevy Express 15-passenger vans annually from BDD Enterprises in Durango that have been previously inspected by the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. These vans are new each year, ensuring reliable vehicles each operating season. Vehicle maintenance and repairs is the responsibility of the leasing company. Instructors are responsible for notifying the Academy of any maintenance issues they encounter with the vehicles. All vans are equipped with a maximum of 15 seat belts including driver, a spare tire, and tools necessary to change a tire. In 2007, Telluride Academy’s vehicle fleet will consist of a total of 16 15-passenger vans at peak periods and one administrative/gear vehicle. Telluride Academy holds insurance on all vans and vehicles in the fleet. Driver requirements

• Telluride Academy instructors are a minimum age of 21 years old. 30.

• All Telluride Academy drivers must posses a valid Driver’s License. • All Telluride Academy instructors undergo a background check, which includes a

review of traffic offenses. • All Academy instructors must receive clearance from insurance company to drive;

we cannot allow instructors with poor driving records to transport students. • A minimum age of 21 years is required for transporting Telluride Academy

students. Junior instructors are not allowed to transport students. • Telluride Academy instructors are required to maintain “acceptable” driving

records; alcohol or drug related driving offense, regardless of being “off the clock,” is cause for immediate re-evaluation of the employee’s contractual obligation.

Driver’s training All Telluride Academy instructors are required to participate annually in a vehicle training session. This training highlights vehicle standards, familiarizes drivers with the operation of 15-passenger vans, and educates drivers of potential vehicle risks and the measures to take in order to reduce these risks. Following training, session staff are required to successfully demonstrate general knowledge and handling of 15-passenger vans, as well as efficiency parking, backing up, down shifting while driving on inclined roads, changing a flat tire, correct use of car seats and booster seats and loading and unloading Telluride Academy vehicles. Vehicle operation guidelines

1. Drivers will not be behind the wheel longer than 10 hours in any 24-hour period. This includes transporting students or staff, pulling trailers or driving empty vehicles. Telluride Academy encourages drivers to rest when fatigued.

2. No alcohol or illegal drugs may be consumed while operating a Telluride

Academy vehicle or personal vehicle being used for Telluride Academy business. Drivers must wait 8 hours after drinking any amount of alcohol before driving. Excessive drinking (5 or more beers or equivalent) 8 hours before any driving duty is not wise and may preclude driving. Telluride Academy supports the designated driver concept in situations where necessary eg: Telluride Academy sponsored social functions. Drivers need to be aware of any adverse reactions or drowsiness resulting from any prescription or non-prescriptions drugs, such as antihistamines they may be taking.

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3. Drivers should make sure that passengers wear their seat belts at all times.

4. All Telluride Academy 15-passenger vans will be driven with headlights on during operation.

5. Drivers must observe posted speed limits, traffic signs and legal rules of the road.

Vehicles loaded with students or pulling trailers should never exceed 55 mph, even if posted speed limits are greater.

6. Avoid driving practices that can cause loss of control such as driving too fast for

road conditions or panic steering.

7. When operating a Telluride Academy vehicle, employees are encouraged to routinely check the tires, oil, lights, spare, jack, fluids and belts and to report any irregularities to the program outfitter.

Driving behavior expectations: Telluride Academy will support the decisions of persons acting in a prudent manner. Driving in an unsafe or dangerous manner is unacceptable.

1. Picking up hitchhikers is not allowed. 2. Drivers must avoid distractions while driving

• Driver use of cell phones and other hands free devices while operating a Telluride Academy vehicle is prohibited while the vehicle is in motion.

• Physical obstructions to hearing such as headphones are not allowed. • Be prepared to properly handle the vehicle while controlling passenger

behavior. • Use your co-instructor to adjust radio, climate control, answer cell phones

or respond to other passenger needs. Radius of operation The majority of Telluride Academy driving is done on mountain and canyon roads in Southwest Colorado and Southeast Utah. More than 80 percent of driving occurs on paved state and county highways with less than 20 percent on graded County & Forest Service dirt or gravel roads. It is a constant concern that Telluride Academy spends “to much time in the van.” Telluride Academy does not recommend long driving times for programs and prefers that younger students never be in the car for more then 30 minutes at a time. Vehicles drive an average of 25 miles per day and 100 miles per week. More than 85

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percent of vehicle use is within a 60-minute/60-mile radius of Telluride and the remaining use is in the form of trip camps that transport students beyond the Telluride region.

Vehicle appearance/cleanliness It is the responsibility of Telluride Academy staff to keep the vehicles they are assigned clean at all times. This is helped greatly by cleaning off before getting into the vehicles. Do not allow food or drinks other than water in the vehicles. Always stop to have lunch and snacks rather than have them in the van. At the end of each day, staff members are required to remove all trash and personal gear. At the end of each week staff are required to vacuum the interior, and wash the exterior. This allows staff the chance to look over and visually inspect their vehicles weekly. All vans will display a magnetic sign with the Telluride Academy logo, web address and phone number. Be aware that everywhere you go and everything you do, people will know you’re the Telluride Academy. Staff accountability A good relationship with the Telluride Academy’s leased vehicle provider is crucial to the successful execution of Telluride Academy’s mission. Telluride Academy pays a substantial security deposit to the leasing company each year and expects these vehicles to be free of damage at the end of each operating season. Telluride Academy staff is accountable for their own reckless driving. Repair costs will be deducted from the responsible staff members’ paycheck for major scratches, fender benders or other repairs caused by carelessness. Other issues in the past resulting in damage repair and costs have included:

• Destruction of interior or exterior parts of your vehicle by an out-of-control group.

• Riding the brakes while going downhill instead of shifting to a lower gear. • Destruction of undercarriage of the vehicle by trying to drive the van in

inappropriate locations – if you are unsure, get out and scout a questionable section of road.

• Roof damage caused by careless loading/unloading or students/instructors on top of vans. Students should never be allowed on top of vehicles.

• Losing your automatic door look. If you get a ticket for irresponsible driving, that will be your last day of work. Do not show off or even pretend to show off - kids love to report these incidents to their parents.

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Telluride Academy staff is expected to treat company vehicles better then their own. Students and staff alike need to make vehicle appreciation and maintenance a priority activity woven into each day of camp. Seat belts ALL PASSENGERS ARE REQUIRED TO WEAR SEAT BELTS AT ALL TIMES Instructors should constantly be checking student seat belts. Car seats/booster seats

• The law requires children ages that weigh 40 pounds or less to be restrained in a forward facing car seat. The Academy owns forward-facing car seats.

• For children who are over 40 pounds or at least 5 years old, the law requires that they be properly restrained in a child booster seat. The Academy has plenty of booster seats available; most of our youngest campers (Explorers) will use a booster or car seat.

• Any child who is at least six years old or at least 55” tall must be properly restrained with a safety belt.

(Note: Instructors need to ask parents of any 5 year old or smaller child what type of restraint seat their child will require on the first day of a session.) Parking/loading/backing up Due to poor visibility and other risks involved in backing up or pulling into tight places, the passenger staff should always get out of the vehicle and assist the driver by double checking distances and possible obstructions whenever possible. Whenever available, front-end parking is always preferred rather than parallel parking with emergency brake engaged. Loading must always be done with the vehicle completely in park and should always be supervised by a staff member. 1. Load heaviest gear inside the van, not on top. 2. If group has 10 campers or less, take out the front seat and load all gear in its place. 3. Load heaviest items on bottom. 4. Cargo should not block driver’s view. 5. Keep in mind that acceleration and needed braking distances change as your cargo load changes. 6. Only load in places safe for passengers to approach vehicle.

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8. Campers are never allowed to climb on roof racks

8. Have passengers occupy forward most seats first, have heavier passengers occupy forward seats. 9. Do not use vacant space in the rear of the van to transport gear and equipment. A payload capacity of 100 pounds is allowed for the rear space of the van. 10. Flammable liquids/materials must not be transported in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. You can store your propane tank on the roof of the vehicle. 11. Secure all items inside van as well as possible avoiding injury through flying objects. Driving/parking in the Town of Telluride It is preferred that Telluride Academy students are not to be driven in to town unless accessing lands east of Telluride. The majority of parking in the Town of Telluride is parallel parking. If necessary to go into town with your students, vehicles are to be left at the Telluride Middle/High School or parked at the lot adjacent to Town Park (often full). Vehicle assignments and keys Instructors will be assigned a single vehicle each session. Because of logistics you may be re-assigned a different van the second week of a session. Another reason they should be cleaned each week! When not in use, vehicles are to remain locked and parked in the back of the Telluride Middle/High School. All keys are to be kept in the Telluride Academy office, on the key rack until the time they are needed and must be returned when finished each day. Whenever a key is taken from the office it is to be signed out using the key log accompanying the keys, as well as signed in when returned. Any comments regarding the vehicle should also be noted on the key log when a vehicle is signed in. Vehicle keys are never to be taken home by staff. Staff is responsible for the van keys they are assigned. Under no circumstances may an instructor switch vehicles not assigned to them unless administrative staff has approved authorization. It is the responsibility of staff to communicate with their co-instructors on who is responsible for their van keys while in the field and to maintain a spare key in their possession. Additional spare keys for all vans are kept in the Telluride Academy office and in a hide-a-key on the van.

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Vehicle maintenance The program outfitter is required to complete a Vehicle Maintenance Log at the completion of each program recording vehicle mileage, operating performance, and physical condition of each assigned vehicles. It is the responsibility of staff to immediately report any vehicle concerns they sense may present a risk to the safety of its passengers, i.e. brakes, tires, etc. to the Field Director. This should be done when vehicle keys are signed in at the end of a program day. If a vehicle needs to be serviced or is deemed unsafe to drive, an alternate vehicle will be assigned to the camp. Gas Telluride Academy staff is responsible to fill their gas tank when they return on the last day of each session using their activity budget. Always check your oil while taking the time to gas up. A supply of oil is kept in the gear shed should vehicles begin to run low on oil. Speeding All Telluride Academy drivers are expected to obey posted speed limits, and are trained to recognize that 15-passenger vans are operated much safer when driving 5-10 mph below the posted speed limit. Vans should never exceed 55 mph even if posted limits are higher. Discipline of students while driving Passenger staff should deal with the discipline of campers, not the driver. If the problem can’t be remedied, staff has been trained to then pull the vehicle over at the first safe place and resolve the problem before moving on. Accident procedures In the case of an emergency: 1. Remain at the scene of the accident. Immediately move the vehicle to as safe a place as feasibly possible and come to a complete stop. 2. Remove all passengers to a safe place away from the traffic and outside the vehicle. One instructor must stay with the passengers. 3. Render any injured person reasonable assistance or request emergency medical assistance as necessary. 4. Notify the proper law enforcement authority and contact Telluride Academy (970-728-5311) using your cell phone. 5. If an accident has occurred please refer to the insurance cards in the van, inside the van folder, and obtain the information required at the scene of an accident.

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RESOURCES AND ACTIVITIES

The Telluride Academy encourages all counselors to be creative with their session planning. We love hearing new ideas about awesome spots and inspiring curriculum at Thursday meetings. Here are a few ideas that we have compiled throughout the years. Please add all of your great ideas! Rock Climbing Each group will rock climb once per session, possibly twice if space available. There will be a sign up for each session during the Thursday staff meeting. We have a climbing director and assistant. Some of the places we climb are: Ilium boulders, Bilk Creek, Society Turn, Cracked Canyon, Unaweep Canyon, THS climbing wall and Bear Creek. Canoeing Each Camp Telluride group will canoe for a portion of the afternoon each session. There will be a sign-up for each session during the Thursday evening staff meeting. We conduct the canoeing on Trout Lake with our Field Director and assistant. Other Great Activities & Contact Phone Numbers: Anasazi Heritage Center, Dolores 882-4811 call in advance and whole group gets in free. Also, they may be able to set up something with the educational specialist. Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cortez Cultural Center, 25 N. Market St., 565-1151, every Wednesday night, traditional Native American dancing performances, 7:30 -8:30 p.m. Ouray Hot Springs-325-7073, ages 3-6 = $3, ages 7-17 = $6, age 18+ = $8 Advanced notice can get you in for $4 per person, limit 2 groups per day. Ouray gets really crowded during summer - this is a special treat for 7 and ups only! Trimble Hot Springs, Durango Call in advance (970) 247-0111 for special rate $9/adult and $5.50/per child.

Box Canyon Falls, Short hike, walk over bridges, to great waterfall/picnic spot just outside of Ouray, $3 per child Bachelor-Syracuse Mine Tour, Ouray- 325-0220, $5 per kid $8 for adults, $2/kid for gold panning. Sand Canyon National Monument, just outside of Cortez, great hiking with amazing Anasazi ruins everywhere you look, please stop by the Anasazi Heritage Center in Dolores first for an introduction to the National Monument. Railroad Museum in Ridgeway, free Old One Hundred Mine Tour, Silverton 1-800-872-3009 call in advance for reservations. $6/child and instructors are free. Every hour on the hour after 10 a.m. tour includes panning for gold. Tomten Farms on Hastings Mesa- Kris at 728-1412 or cell 708-0289 please call ahead to set-up time to visit, a weeks notice is best. San Sophia Nature Center (top of the gondola) Bear Creek Ranger Program-728-2173 call to set-up an activity/service project Ranger for 2006-Suzanne Bridges Telluride Fire Department- 728-3801, call to set-up tour Daranyi’s Indian Ridge Farm– Organic farm in Norwood, chickens, pigs and more, Thursday, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. sign-up at staff meetings, $20 donation Mancos Valley Stage Line - 970-533-9857, $12/kid, Adults free. Authentic stagecoach tours. “Legends of the West” faux Western town, Ridgway, call Bob to set-up a visit 626-5792 4 Seasons Nursery Contact:Vic @ 970 565-8274 The Nursery is located just off Hwy 145 between Dolores and Cortez on County Rd. P It is on the right side of the highway when you are driving south. The Nursery can arrange tours of the greenhouse. They can show you the process from seed to tree as well

as the numerous other species they grow on-site. Students can help plant and water and there is a great place for a picnic lunch. Please call a few days ahead to make a reservation. Outfitters When you speak to these companies, make sure that you tell them you are booking for a non-profit children’s organization so that you can possibly get discounts and group rates. Rafting (must be planned ahead, all campers must have parents sign subcontractor forms ahead of time!) Canyon Voyages, Moab, Utah- 1-800-733-6007 Flexible Flyers, Durango- (970)247-4628, 2 hours $9/kid $18/adult CRATE, Moab, Utah – 1-800-253-7328 Boot Doctors, Telluride – 728-8954, $135/boat Horseback Riding (must be planned ahead, all campers must have parents sign subcontractor forms ahead of time!) Mancos Stage coach rides-970-533-9857, $12/kid, Adults free San Juan Riding Program in Ridgway - signup at staff meetings, Tuesdays, a.m. and p.m. $20/kid Mountain Bike Rentals Telluride Sports, 728-4477 Paragon Sports, 728-4525 Scott Hargrave (Tunes and Repairs) 708-2119 Great Hikes There are a number of fabulous places to go in the immediate area. Some hikes are best for young campers; others are best for older campers. Here are a few of our favorites, their approximate distances and what age groups are appropriate for these hikes. Ages 5+ Coronet Creek, .25 miles (short, but very steep, could take awhile) Telluride River Trail, 3 miles Alta Lakes, .5 mile up from Alta ghost town Priest Lake: walk around the lake, 1 mile Town Park: hike to lower falls, east of ball fields. Firecracker Hill in Town Park, steep, but fun!

Nature Conservancy boardwalk, good lunch spot, Ilium Valley Ilium Valley, past church camp, 1st right, ¾ miles to coal chutes Crystal Cave, will be challenging for them, but worth it! NEW: Valley Floor! 500 acres next to town with trails, river, wildlife, etc. Ages 6-9 Waterfall Canyon, Ophir, 2 mile loop Whipple Mountain Rico, river trail Woods Lake Galloping Goose Trail (Illium) Bear Creek Falls, 2.5 miles up Hiking in Ouray NEW: Valley Floor! 500 acres next to town with trails, river, wildlife, etc. Ages 10-13 Hope Lake, 2.5 miles up Tomboy Mine, 5 miles to mine Silver Lake, 1.6 miles from power plant (shuttle needed) Blue Lake, 2.75 miles from power plant (shuttle needed) Ajax Peak (shuttle needed) Galloping Goose Trail Sand Canyon, outside of Cortez NEW: Valley Floor! 500 acres next to town with trails, river, wildlife, etc. Great Overnight Camping Spots Iluim Valley (both spots are fee camping) Alta Lakes Priest Lake Hastings Mesa, Lisa Knight’s property Wildboy Lake – near Alta Lakes Gold King Basin – near Alta Lakes Miramonte Reservoir Buckeye Reservoir Schoolhouse, Iron Springs Mesa South Mineral Creek Rd. Pass campground Loomis Land – Species Mesa Mcphee Reservoir Stallion Ranch, Species Mesa

Herndon’s Ranch, Norwood Tomten Farm campsite, Hastings Mesa Hovenweep National Park – outside of Cortez Top of the Pines – mesa near Ridgway Durango area National Forest properties – approx. $14 per site Themes You are expected to design your curriculum for a Camp Telluride session with a theme, and create activities that coincide with that theme. Here is a partial list of Camp Telluride themes that have been used in the past to get you started: Native Americans, Water, Wildflowers, Geology, Friendship, Leave no Trace, Orienteering, Gold (mining), History of Telluride, Spaceship Earth, The Living Earth, Bugs, Fauna, Worms, Seasons, Noises, Junior Rangers, Weather, Stars, Senses Mountain People Living, Wildlife, Flora, Tracks and Scats, Rocks, Land Formation Medicinal Herbs, Games, Floaters and Sinkers, Food Chain, Rainbows and Waterfalls Trees, Eco Map, Bodies in Motion, Mystery Camp Cowboys/Gangsters, Archeology (hide bones) Classic Camp Activities Here is a small list of ideas that you can do with your camp day. It is never ending and if you ask around, your Bag of Tricks can just keep growing. Please add all of your own activities to the list, and teach them to other instructors. Tie Dye, Candle Making, Friendship Bracelets, Singing, make up your own songs, Micro Hikes, Animal Tracks (with Plaster of Paris), Masks, Orienteering, Scavenger Hunts Crawdadding, Fishing, Identifying Flora and Fauna, Skits, Archeological Dig (rope off an area with String, use a screen and trowel to find planted items), Read a story, Biology Experiments, Face Painting, Gold Panning, Flower Pressing, Paper Making, Finger Painting, Drawing, Gondola Ride, Shadow Puppets, Daily Newspaper, Conservation Project, Outdoor Cooking, Safari, Scientists-role play, Mine Touring, Professor hike-”Each One Teach One”, Horseback riding, Practice Camp -tasks like putting up tents Treasure Hunt, Pinecone creatures, Rain Sticks, Nature Mobile, Prayer flags, Rock friends, Paint faces with river rocks and clay, Sidewalk chalk-WEST ENTERANCE ONLY, NO BUILDING, Dream Catchers, etc…

GAMES Use your imagination - the possibilities are endless. The following may take some explanation from returning staff, but feel free to be creative and please add to the list. Making Rain Giants, Wizards, and Elves (just like rock paper scissor tag), Kickball, Ship Wreck Elbow tag, Big Chief, The Clock, Traffic Jam, Go to and touch blue, Map making Two truths and a lie, Name game, Handshake name game, What ya doing?, Dog Pound Name + Action , The Chosen Few, Detective, etc… A.M. Activities: Hangman, Cards, Sugar cube towers, Collages, Camp newspaper, write stories and draw pictures from the day before, Joke Jar (pre-write some jokes have kids take turns reading the jokes or riddles.) Wordles (see games packet), Spelling bee, Say What (see games packet), “I like coffee, but I don’t like tea!” (See games packet), an art project that incorporates the days activities, journals, finger painting, permanent marker Tie Dye. Rainy day Activities In town options: Telluride Historical Museum, Nature Center, Indoor rock climbing, Tour of Baked in Telluride, Tour the Sweet Life, see how the ice cream is made, Play group games in the new Pavilion in Town park (ask office), Make a movie, Do an art project in the art room, Tour the Firehouse, should pre-schedule this, Go on a indoor treasure hunt through high school, leave town and find better weather! Out of town options: Ophir Town Hall, call Paul Machado (728-1402) or Larry Rosen (729-0085) Cortez Cultural Center, Anasazi Heritage center, Durango Nature Center (best for overnight in that area), Ouray Mine Tour, Silverton Museum. *Using your imagination and being creative is your best weapon on a rainy day!