1. Safe & Respectful Interactions
- Always conduct mentorship sessions in a safe, appropriate, and public setting (e.g., a school, library, or virtual meeting platform).
- Do not engage in any physical contact with the mentee that could be misinterpreted (e.g., hugging, patting, or other forms of physical affection).
- Do not engage in personal relationships or inappropriate conversations with your mentee.
2. Communication Guidelines
- Communication should be professional, appropriate, and mentorship-focused.
- Avoid one-on-one private meetings in secluded areas. Ensure that all interactions are observable by a third party.
- Virtual meetings should take place using approved platforms and with parental/guardian knowledge.
- Do not communicate with your mentee on social media, personal phone numbers, or private messaging apps unless approved by the program.
3. Confidentiality & Reporting
- Maintain confidentiality, but report any signs of abuse, neglect, or harm to the program administrators or mandated authorities immediately.
- Do not promise to keep secrets for your mentee. If they disclose something concerning, inform them that you must report it to the appropriate party for their safety.
- Ensure all discussions remain appropriate and within the scope of mentorship.
4. Boundaries & Ethics
- Do not provide your mentee with gifts, money, or personal financial assistance.
- Do not transport your mentee in a personal vehicle unless it is part of an official, pre-approved program event and with written consent from a parent/guardian.
- Avoid discussing sensitive personal topics such as romantic relationships, family disputes, or personal struggles.
5. Commitment & Professionalism
- Be reliable and consistent in your mentorship commitment.
- Be on time and prepared for scheduled mentorship sessions.
- If you must miss a meeting, provide advance notice to both the mentee and program administrators.
6. Accountability & Program Compliance
- Report any concerns, conflicts, or violations to the mentorship program coordinators.
- Follow all program policies and adhere to any background check or training requirements.
- Remember that your role is to guide and support, not to parent or discipline the mentee.
Consequences for Violating the Code of Conduct
Violations of the mentorship program’s Code of Conduct may result in:
- A warning or additional training to correct behavior.
- Suspension or termination from the mentorship program.
- Legal reporting and action if a serious violation occurs (e.g., abuse, harassment, or misconduct).
