Handbook for Parents and Students

Safety

All outdoor activities carry with them some element of inherent risk. In addition to the general risks associated with adventure sports and wilderness pursuits, there are other risks that come with our daily rhythms. For example, on a white water paddling trip there is water safety to be aware of, as well as the possibility of cutting one’s self while preparing dinner. We have an excellent safety record, which we achieve through year-round practice in simple living, wilderness medical training, providing special safety equipment, and trust in our intuitive sense. This, however, does not excuse individuals from being responsible for their own safety. Any outdoor activity requires common sense and thought before action. This personal responsibility is expected of all participants with respect to age. We realize some students have more difficulty than others in the area of self-monitoring personal safety.  If you feel your child may need extra attention in this area, please let us know. If you have any questions or concerns, please call us and we will share with you our comprehensive risk-management plan and protocols. Read more about safety at Kroka here, or read more about our tick protocols here.

Some of our programs, such as advanced remote expeditions, Class IV white water paddling, advanced rock climbing and caving, go far beyond what children are allowed to do in a typical camp. In such programs, there may be an increased level of risk due to unpredictable environments. Participation in these advanced programs is a privilege that students earn through hard training, experience, and the development of exceptional personal qualities. In addition to this privilege, there must be trust between families and Kroka’s teachers, with mutual respect and the awareness that while all safety precautions are taken, there is an inherent risk involved that must be understood and accepted.

Consequences for Inappropriate Behavior

As specified in the Code of Conduct, Kroka Expeditions has a zero tolerance policy for alcohol, tobacco, or any substance use or possession during our programs. Students violating this rule will immediately be dismissed from the program.

Staff may also dismiss students on the basis of unacceptable behavior, including breaking community agreements, use of profanity and sexual innuendo, or disregarding directions from an instructor. Determination is at the discretion of the staff and is based on the well being of the group as a whole.

In the case of other unacceptable behaviors, the following steps will be taken:

1) Behavior in question will be discussed privately with the student.

2) Parents will be notified of the issue and of possible dismissal.

3) An action plan will be created between the family and Kroka.

4) Failure to comply will result in dismissal. Parents will be called and must come and pick their child up from the program, regardless of where that may be. No refunds are given in the above dismissal situations.

Electronic Media & Technology

We do our best to honor every moment of a Kroka program by allowing students to directly and fully experience the real-world adventures we are having. For this reason, our programs typically do not ever watch videos or movies, or use any electronic entertainment devices. (We may on rare occasions watch a slideshow at the conclusion of a program or listen to an audio book while on a long road trip.)

Kroka students are prohibited from bringing any personal electronic devices on an expedition, including computers, cameras, watches, cell phones, and gaming devices. In addition to this clear rule, we also ask students during a program to avoid introducing or commenting on the modern entertainment world of games and videos, as these conversational references tend to distract children away from the present moment, and make it harder to experience the sacredness of a beautiful mountain top view or a quiet evening circle around a campfire.

We need your help and support with this important issue! If your child uses electronic media or entertainment systems for more than one hour per day, we ask that you consider reducing that time for the week prior to coming to Kroka. In addition, if your student has trouble abstaining from media or game references in their social conversations during a Kroka program, it may affect our willingness to accept him or her into future programs, and we may contact you ask that you more strictly limit exposure to media before he or she arrives.

Equipment

We provide all specialty gear, such as life jackets, helmets, paddles, harnesses, etc. Our equipment is very dear to us and we like it to last for many years in order to bring pleasure to many people. Students will be instructed on proper care and maintenance of all items and will be held responsible for the gear they are using. With permission of the program instructor, students are welcome to bring their own boat, climbing harness, or other special gear.

Challenge

Programs are developmentally appropriate and are adapted to the individual students’ ability level. Advanced programs for older students are designed to be physically and mentally demanding, which require a willingness to push beyond one’s limits. We want our students to become stronger and more capable individuals at the end of their experience.

Community

A primary objective of every Kroka program is to create a strong and loving community within our groups and to then extend this relationship to the greater community. In daily life students are asked to do difficult things for the well being of the group. Students will learn the joy of working for others. We will complete many service projects for farmers, elderly folks, and people who just need a hand. We strive to create an environment in which everyone’s comfort, happiness and sense of belonging are more important than individual accomplishments. Every day’s success is measured by how the group feels as a whole and how each person has contributed to the success of others. We nurture an environment where one’s accomplishments become everyone’s joy and one’s mistakes become a learning experience for all. We strive for an environment of cooperation rather than competition.

We do not allow late arrivals or early departures due to the disruption it causes to the expedition process and the logistical complications that compromise the safety and integrity of our programs.

Food

Please note that students may be offered or served a variety of wild, raw, and unprocessed foods. Examples of this include wild blueberries, fish caught in lakes and rivers, fresh pressed cider and herbs and vegetables from our garden. If you have any concerns about this, we would be happy to talk with you.

Also: Please see our special section on food and dietary restrictions found here.

Swimming

All students must pass a swim test prior to swimming without a life jacket. The swim test is not mandatory. Students may choose not to take the swim test and instead wear their life jackets while in the water. Life jackets are worn during all boating activities. Swimming activities are always supervised by a certified lifeguard, except in rare cases on advanced programs for adolescents and adults. Swimming alone is never permitted. If your child is not a swimmer, this should be noted on the Medical Questionnaire.

Bathing & Personal Hygiene

On a Kroka program students will bathe every day, either by swimming in clear water (ponds, lakes, and streams) or by washcloth in the campsite at night. Showers are not available to students during summer programs. Soap is used for hand washing before all meals at the campsite. We will ensure adequate privacy is available to all students while bathing.

Late Arrivals & Early Departures

We do not allow late arrivals or early departures due to the disruption it causes to the expedition process and the logistical complications that compromise the safety and integrity of our programs.

Solo Activities

ALONE TIME
All programs have time set aside for students to be by themselves in nature. This time allows for one to sit quietly and reflect away from the activity of the day. The length of time will vary by age level, beginning with short 10-15 minute “sit spot” activities, and extending to half-day or 24-hour solo experiences on specific programs such as a capstone experience.

GROUP INDEPENDENT EXPERIENCES
Advanced summer, middle and high school, and semester programs will sometimes culminate in a group independent experience. This is a rite of passage for groups that have learned the necessary skills of living and traveling on expedition, and have demonstrated their ability to successfully complete these tasks independently from instructors. Groups that are ready for independent time or travel will have demonstrated strong group cohesion and readiness – it is a reward, not an expectation, and not all groups achieve this level of readiness. Group independent experiences may range from a few hours to the duration of one full day, and occasionally on long-duration capstone programs and semesters, may include an overnight component.

Learning To Use Tools

During most programs we teach students, at age-appropriate times, to use sharp tools such as knives, saws and axes for wilderness craft projects, preparing meals, and cutting and splitting firewood. While we instruct students on safe and appropriate use of these tools, continuously remind them of all safety precautions, and supervise them during their use, it remains likely that some students will still cut themselves while working. This is a normal part of learning about sharp tools.

Medications

Students may not bring any medications unless indicated on their Medical Questionnaire. This includes over the counter pain medications. All medications will be carried and dispensed by Kroka’s teachers unless, prior to the program, parents have made other arrangements. Medications must be checked in with the camp nurse at registration.

It has been our experience that many students who are taking prescription drugs for attention deficit during the school year have done well without medication while at Kroka. If this is something you would like to consider for your child we would be happy to discuss this with you.

Medical Treatment

All lead teachers are certified Wilderness First Responders. Our most common injuries are shallow knife cuts and scraped feet, however, we are always prepared to treat serious injuries. Prompt professional backcountry treatment is given to serious injuries and conventional treatment is given to serious injuries in non-remote environments. At our base camp students are treated by the Camp Nurse who can refer them to further care if needed. We may also use homeopathic and herbal remedies such as Arnica and Echinacea as part of holistic medical treatment.

Homesickness

It is not uncommon for children to experience varying levels of homesickness while away from family. We have experience supporting homesickness and find that, in most cases, it diminishes after the first 24 hours. If your child has ongoing homesickness that inhibits their participation or the group’s experience, we may send your child home. We ask that you carefully consider the question of homesickness when registering your child for an overnight program.

Mail & Phone Calls

While we completely understand the desire to stay connected to your child during a week or more away from home, we ask you to refrain from sending letters or making phone calls to your child while they are at camp. Their experience is so short here and we feel it is important for every student to be fully engaged in Kroka life, rather than thinking about home. You should always feel welcome to call our office and see how things are going. Generally speaking, students do not call home during the program. We appreciate your understanding.

For Semester Programs: There is no more special way to communicate than with a hand-written letter, infused with the attention of the writer and which the reader can tuck in their pack and reread over and over again. Students, families and friends are encouraged to write letters throughout the duration of our semester programs. Students will not have access to email, but they may write and receive letters. Care packages from friends and family should be simple and filled with love, letters, and enough delicious trail-worthy treats to share with the entire group. Semester students will have the opportunity to call home a few times during semester, and parents are invited to check in by calling the office or emailing the Semester Coordinator.

Multiple Programs & Layover Logistics

For students attending multiple sessions in a row, we offer a limited layover experience for an additional fee. Please contact the office to request layover arrangements and note that we cannot always accommodate your request.

Trip Itineraries

Interested and concerned parents often ask us for day-by-day itineraries for our programs. While we are always happy to give a general outline of a program’s activities, curriculum, and area of travel, we cannot provide a location or time-specific itinerary. An important part of our teaching philosophy is to follow the needs of a particular group of children as they evolve – and retain the flexibility to best respond to the changing weather and environmental conditions, as well as the particular skills and abilities of our teaching team.  Our office and program directors are always kept aware of changes in plans, and we look forward to sharing the details with you once we reunite at the conclusion of the program.

If Your Child Is Not Well

If a student comes to a Kroka Program sick (fever, flu, cold, etc.), parents or guardians will be asked to take the student home in order to be cared for. They will be welcome to return, if logistically feasible, once they are well. If a student has been sick prior to camp, we ask parents to check in with the office to ensure the student’s ability to camp. 

If a student becomes ill while on a program, we will notify parents/guardians. While they are here or on expedition, we will care for them. If the student has not recovered in 24 hours, we will ask that the student is picked up. If it is logistically feasible, the student may return to their program once fully recovered.

Kroka Code of Conduct

We believe that human consciousness and altruism can be strengthened through a living relationship with the natural world and by taking our places within the circle of community. Our code of conduct allows us to live and work together in a way that balances the needs of the individual with the needs of the community.

Appropriate Risk Taking

I will follow all safety procedures and use all expedition clothing and equipment as instructed. I will embrace the challenge and risk of adventure sports while also realizing that crossing the line of common sense will endanger my life and the lives of others in the group.

Cleanliness

I will maintain my living space and belongings in a clean presentable order. Clothing, equipment, and personal space will be kept clean and arranged neatly.

Confidentiality

At Kroka we value our ability to share personally with each other and see this as an essential way to connect and build common understanding. When personal topics are shared within the circle of staff and students, I will uphold the sacred trust of my group and will maintain confidentiality elsewhere on the Kroka campus and even after the conclusion of a program.

Conflict Resolution

When conflict or resentment occurs, I will immediately speak out honestly to the group or staff members in order to promptly move the issue to resolution.

Personal Health

I will safeguard the health of the group by taking responsibility for my own physical, mental, and emotional health and safety. I will take the highest standards of care for my appearance and hygiene. This includes adequate nutrition, rest, and finding supportive guidance from staff and peers.

Responsibility

I will take personal responsibility for any animals, buildings, supplies and equipment that are placed within my care or within my reach. I will not take things that do not belong to me. When I make a mistake, which I will, I will take honest responsibility for it, and enjoy the support of the community in making things right again. I will be present, prepared, and on-time for all activities, and remain within the group assigned activities at all times.

Respectful and Positive Communication

Social and emotional safety are as important as physical safety in our work. I will greet the people I meet each day with warmth and eye contact, and I will strive to express my ideas and feelings fully and freely within the community. When questioned about something important, I will be truthful with facts and testimony. I will model healthy positive communication without gossip or behind-the-back criticism. I will use kind and respectful language, and I will not use profanity, shouting, threats, sexual innuendo or and sexually explicit or offensive expressions in my speech – even in a private setting and even in challenging or upsetting circumstances. When another person is deliberately speaking to me or to the group, I will give my full quiet attention to them. I will refrain from all forms of bullying, including unsolicited criticism, name calling, social exclusion, aggressive teasing and coercion.

Interpersonal Safety

I will share in the work of creating and maintaining a strong and fully inclusive community that is a safe, welcoming, and affirming place for the full diversity of people who might be with us – including persons of different racial, cultural, or religious backgrounds, and people of all sexual orientations and gender identities. Kroka has a zero tolerance policy for abuse, harassment, or bullying. Please see our guide to interpersonal safety (published on the Kroka website) for more detailed descriptions of how we work through uncomfortable moments and respond to any unwanted or harmful circumstances that might occur.

Use of Technology

I understand that the use of entertainment and communications technology such as radios, cell phones, laptops, watches, fitness trackers, and other internet devices can have a distracting or even detrimental effect on my personal safety and my attention and energy for the people and circumstances of the real world that surrounds me. I accept and will abide by any community established limitations on the use personal technology while on the Kroka campus or participating in a Kroka program.

Work

I accept and embrace manual labor as an essential part of daily life in the Kroka community. I will put forth my utmost effort to work with intention and focus to see each assigned task through to completion. In addition, I will notice things that need to be done, and do them without being asked, out of my own initiative and free-will. Finally, I will notice when others around me are hard at work, and I will join together with them in the task at hand, both for the pleasure of teamwork and the desire to equitably share the labor.

Substance Use

I will not possess, offer, purchase or consume any substances that will adversely impact physical health, state of consciousness, or the ability to exercise good judgment at any time while enrolled in or assigned to a Kroka program. This includes (but is not limited to) tobacco, electronic cigarettes, marijuana, pharmaceutical drugs, psychotropic or psychedelic substances (chemical and wild-gathered), alcohol, or other illegal drugs.

Exclusive Relationships

Students on programs will naturally develop close friendships or romantic feelings for one another. It is normal and healthy to enjoy and express these feelings, however, acting on those feelings can interfere with the overall social and emotional well-being of the community. To that end, I will refrain from exclusive behavior and I will respond to feedback about how my personal relationships affect the group. If I feel drawn towards an exclusive or romantic relationship while at Kroka, I will communicate with program staff or adult mentors and ask for support. Finally, I understand that Kroka does not permit any romantic or exclusive relationships between staff and students.

Sexuality

Kroka’s curriculum demands extraordinary levels of focus during a brief period of time in one’s life. While sexuality is a healthy aspect of being human, there are many important reasons why a Kroka program is not a safe, healthy, or appropriate environment for exploring intimate or sexual relationships. Therefore, I will not engage in intimate sexual activity (a) with other people (b) in the presence of other people, or (c) within common spaces such as tents or buildings.

Furthermore, Kroka Expeditions has a zero tolerance policy for sexual harassment or misconduct. Please review our interpersonal safety guide for a detailed explanation of what constitutes sexual harassment or misconduct.

Consequences of Violation

I understand and agree to follow the ideals of this code of conduct. I understand that violations of these standards will be noticed and directly addressed by my instructors and peers, and may result in a behavior contract or even my immediate dismissal from the program.

Sanctuary

If a student has violated the standards of this code of conduct in ways that are risky to one’s health and well-being – especially around substance abuse and sexual activity – the established consequences for a violation (dismissal from the program) can create reluctance to ask for help from other students or staff members. Students in this situation may request a “sanctuary conversation” from any Kroka staff member – and if this takes place before Kroka staff have reasonable suspicion or before a violation is likely to be discovered, staff will then make every possible effort to protect the confidentiality of the student and find alternatives to dismissal so that a student could still successfully complete the program.

Parental Notification Policy

Kroka will immediately notify parents or guardians (regardless of student age, finances, or family background) if:

• students miss more than two consecutive days of program activity for a health or behavior reason
• students are scheduled to receive physical or psychological health care from a professional outside of immediate Kroka staff
• students violate any terms of the code of conduct related to substance use or sexuality
• students violations of the code of conduct are severe or pervasive enough to require repeated meetings with senior staff or a behavior contract