Office of Origin: Academic Affairs and Student Services
Responsibility:  Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Vice President of Student Affairs
Date Adopted:  10-25-08
Date Reviewed: 07-10-18, 5-12-22, 02-22-23, 06-18-24
Last Date Modified & Approved: 06-25-19, 02-22-23(c), 06-18-24

Children or minors under the age of 18 who are not attending classes must be under adult supervision at all times. Lake Michigan College (LMC or the College) assumes no responsibility or liability for any loss or damage suffered by any child or minor under the age of 18 on campus in violation of this policy. The College reserves the right to seek indemnity and contribution from any adult in violation of this policy.

Students are discouraged from bringing minors to campus while they are attending class unless the minor's attendance is required as part of the student’s responsibilities in completing a course assignment or the student receives permission from the instructor.

Minors and guardians whose minors are taking part in LMC-sponsored activities, such as summer camps and workshops, will observe the procedures and protocols required for participation in those programs. All adults participating in programs and activities covered by this policy are expected to be positive role models and act in a caring, honest, respectful, and responsible manner. They are required to comply with all applicable laws and College policies and procedures.

Employees and students may enroll their children in Kidzone Preschool & Child Care Center, L.L.C. on the Benton Harbor or South Haven campus for child care needs.  Kidzone is privately owned and operated and is not affiliated with the College.

Enrollment in College Courses

Minors are eligible to enroll in and attend classes if they meet course prerequisites and other requirements, as stipulated by the Class Registration, Admissions, and Early College policies. 
 
Minors under the age of 14 who are interested in taking classes on campus must obtain written permission from the appropriate academic dean. The dean will confer with relevant faculty and/or department/program chair(s) and the Vice President of Student Affairs prior to making a decision regarding the suitability of the college environment and the course(s) in which the minor is interested. 

Over Night Stays

Any program that allow or require minors to stay overnight at Beckwith Hall (or elsewhere at the College) must have approval in writing from the supervising Cabinet member. The program director must obtain written consent and liability waivers signed by the participant’s parent/guardian prior to the same, and must follow the relevant portions on the Field Trip policy. Minors must adhere to the Housing Handbook and Student Code of Conduct and follow all policies and procedures.

Minors cannot be without a chaperone(s) at any time during their stay except when they are in their Beckwith Hall suite. Minors must inform a chaperone of any misconduct, illness, or emergency right away during their stay. The ratio of chaperones to minors must be at least 2 chaperones to 14 minors.

Chaperones and volunteers present during minor overnight stays must have passed a background check and be a trained CSA. Chaperones and volunteers must adhere to all policies and procedures.

References: Admissions Policy, Class Registration Policy, Early College Policy, FERPA Policy, Field Trip Policy