aides-in-training (ait) leadership program handbook · 2020-02-24 · youth development @ lssc,...

Aides-in-Training (AIT)

Leadership Program

Handbook

Youth Development @ LSSC, 9501 U.S. Hwy 441, Leesburg, FL. 34788 – Phone: 352.323-3610

Aide-in-Training Handbook

Table of Contents

Overview ............................................................................................... 3 Guidelines for AITs................................................................................ 4 Tips for being a successful AIT .............................................................. 5 Benefits ................................................................................................. 6 Consequences for Misbehavior ................................................. 6 Harassment........................................................................................... 7

An AIT’s Self-Evaluation ............................................................. 7 Guidelines for Effective Communication ............................................. 8 Kids’ College General Information ....................................................... 9 Rules & Regulations .............................................................................. 10

Procedures for Injuries or Emergencies ..................................... 10 Kids’ College Map – Leesburg Campus ................................................. 11 Kids’ College Map – Clermont Campus ................................................ 12

Kids’ College Office

Leesburg Campus Clermont Campus Room: Student Center, Room 107 Room: Building 1, Room 124 Phone: 352-787-3747 ext. 4495 Phone: 352-243-5722 ext. 2105

Offices are only staffed during the Kids’ College programs on Monday – Thursday from 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. (Please call the Youth Development office at 352-323-3610 outside of those times.)


OVERVIEW OF THE AIDE-IN-TRAINING LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

Welcome to the Aide-in-Training (AIT) Leadership Program! The goal of this program is to help develop the leadership skills of our high school students by increasing their awareness of personal responsibility and character development. We look forward to a great summer with lots of opportunities to develop positive relationships.

An Aide-in-Training assists with:

✓ Welcoming students and check-in procedures ✓ Supervision at drop-off/pick-up, class change, lunch time and escorting students to various

locations as necessary ✓ Activities in the classroom ✓ Performing various miscellaneous tasks as requested by instructors and supervisors An Aide-in-Training is a(n):

✓ Valuable volunteer because of the service he/she provides ✓ Organized volunteer who does his/her job well ✓ Leader who helps with program activities ✓ Understanding friend to the participants ✓ Needed member of the community ✓ Trustworthy volunteer ✓ Energetic source of leadership ✓ Eager worker ✓ Reliable source of help

Sincerely,

DeAnna Diggs

DeAnna Diggs Director, Youth Development (352) 323-3610 [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]


GUIDELINES FOR AIDES-IN-TRAINING

AITs:

➢ Must always arrive on time and be present every day of the program in which they are scheduled. If an emergency arises, the AIT must contact the Kids’ College office.

➢ Must wear their staff shirts each day of the camp. Any shorts must be of appropriate length. If you hold your arms down to your sides, your shorts should be no shorter than your fingertips. Sneakers must be worn each day for all outdoor activities. Any AIT not properly dressed will be asked to go home and change.

➢ Must handle themselves in a professional manner at all times.

➢ Must interact with students, knowing that you are setting an example.

➢ Must treat ALL students with the same respect, enthusiasm, and courtesy.

➢ Must immediately let their instructor know of any problems in the group.

➢ Must report any accidents to their instructor immediately, no matter how minor.

➢ Should fully participate in all classroom activities, under the direction of the instructor.

➢ Should recognize that the instructor will implement any discipline procedures within the group.

➢ May NOT use their cell phones for texting or phone calls at any time during the 2 weeks, except in the case of an emergency.

➢ Will abide by the Lake-Sumter State College and Kids’ College policies.

➢ Can use the program for school volunteer hours. The Coordinator will provide a Community Service Hours form at the end of the AIT’s volunteering session.

➢ Contact the Program Coordinator, if you are not sure about the AIT responsibilities or have concerns at any time.

Remember that you are here to assist the instructor. It is extremely important that you take the initiative to help incorporate all the rules necessary to ensure a safe and happy experience for all students. Instructors depend on you to be another source of assistance.

Enjoy the summer! Get to know each other and every student. Although you are only a few years older than the students, remember that you are a role model, so give it your ALL!


TIPS FOR BEING A SUCCESSFUL AIT

For a successful experience, carefully consider the following points:

1. Enthusiasm is the key. If you are not excited about the program, the students will pick up your “I’m just here….” attitude.

2. Work hard to involve each student in the program. Students who feel they are a part of the

program will be more relaxed and cooperative.

3. Recognize the importance of each individual. Some suggestions are: a. Take the time to frequently talk with each individual in your group. b. Give a student your full attention when they are speaking to you! (Be a good listener.) c. Be fair. Never play favorites. Students pick up on favoritism very quickly and will resent it.

4. Set a good example. The students will watch you closely and will be strongly influenced by your attitudes and behavior.

5. Follow directions given to you by the Program Coordinator and course instructor.

6. Complete job assignments as given and in a timely manner.

In conclusion, a successful AIT is one who: a. Is a good role model. b. Accepts the individual and recognizes his/her worth. c. Encourages others and is sensitive to individual needs. d. Creates a supportive climate. e. Establishes friendship. f. Listens with attention. g. Believes in the individual. h. Positively reinforces each participant for his/her efforts. i. Seeks to help with a problem. j. Reflects patience and tolerance. k. Brings understanding to every situation.


YOUR BENEFITS AS AN AIT

We recognize that you will be contributing your time and skills, and we hope you will also recognize the many benefits that are available to you as a participant of this program. Through the Aide-in-Training program, you CAN:

▪ Gain valuable work experience ▪ Make use of your talents and abilities ▪ Achieve new skills ▪ Secure job references ▪ Explore career possibilities ▪ Learn teambuilding skills ▪ Improve communication skills ▪ Develop a greater knowledge and understanding of working with younger students ▪ Learn to appreciate your own abilities ▪ Stimulate new friendships ▪ Receive personal satisfaction by helping other people ▪ Apply for a Program Aide position upon high school graduation ▪ Enlarge your world!

CONSEQUENCES FOR AIT MISBEHAVIOR

Please understand the responsibilities of your position with the Lake-Sumter State College AIT program. While the benefits are great, there are consequences for misbehavior. We expect our AITs to demonstrate a high degree of self-discipline and professionalism. NO excuse for misbehavior is acceptable and the application of the consequence will remain as follows:

❖ 1st referral – Meeting with Instructor

❖ 2nd referral – Meeting with Program Coordinator and Call to Parents

❖ 3rd referral – Expulsion from Program (No refund will be issued.)

END-OF-SUMMER CELEBRATION

AITs will be invited to a celebration on the last day of the Kids’ College program. We will recognize our AITs as we come together for a final wrap-up session. The celebration will be held on:

• July 23, 2020 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm in Magnolia Room - For AITs working in Leesburg

• July 30, 2020 from 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm in CML 120 - For AITs working in Clermont


HARASSMENT

As an AIT at Lake-Sumter State College, you are required to abide by the “no harassment” policies. Lake-Sumter State College is committed to maintaining a work environment free of discrimination and harassment with respect to race, creed, color, religion, age, disability, sex, marital status, national origin, political opinions or affiliations, and veteran status. Harassment is defined as any kind of bothersome, demeaning, irritating, and annoying behavior, which includes bullying and sexual harassment. We have a policy of zero tolerance on bullying and harassment of any nature and any complaint is taken seriously and investigated. Please review the following points:

• The physical and emotional wellbeing of all staff, students, and AITs are of highest importance.

• Be a good role model for the students. If they see YOU bullying, they will think it is alright.

• Be a good role model for bullying intervention as well. Step in immediately and calmly when you see a bullying situation. Do not react with anger, or attempt to shame. Simply state the request. (“The name calling stops now. It is against our rules.”)

• Trust your instincts. If something ‘feels’ like bullying, there’s a good chance it is.

• There should be no Public Display of Affection between volunteers or between students and volunteers.

• Volunteers should conduct themselves in a manner where the attention, care, and supervision of students is not compromised or disrupted.

AN AIT SELF-EVALUATION

1. Am I having fun being an AIT?

2. Do I keep in mind that the program is for the students and I am providing a service?

3. Do I give every student an equal chance, regardless of my own personal likes and dislikes?

4. Do I take the time to try and understand the student who seems “difficult”?

5. Do the students regard me as a friend, someone they can talk to, but not “one of the gang”?

6. Am I a good role model? Do I avoid the “do as I say, not as I do” frame of thought?

7. Am I willing to admit I do not know all the answers?

8. Am I dependable? On time? Prepared for each day?

9. Am I hurt by constructive criticism or do I accept it as a basis for growth?

10. Do I remember to thank people?

11. Do I remember to let the students know when they have done well?

12. Do I take the initiative to learn new things?

13. Do I see what needs to be done and do it, rather than wait for someone else to do it?

14. Do I make decisions to benefit the students and the program, rather than myself?

15. Do I have a good sense of humor?

16. What will the students remember most about me? Have I made a positive impact on their lives?


GUIDELINES FOR EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION

First impressions are lasting ones! You will achieve success if you are positive, enthusiastic, and well prepared. In addition, communicating effectively is extremely important. Make sure you:

1. Greet students and parents every day as they arrive and acknowledge the departure of students as they leave for the day. Students want to be acknowledged just like we do.

2. Say something nice to the students. You achieve more through praise than through criticism.

3. Watch what you say to and around the students. Your words can affect the way an individual feels about him/herself. In addition, the general public hears how you talk. Always WATCH WHAT YOU SAY!

4. NEVER talk about the students to other volunteers or staff while other students are present.

5. Keep personal conversations to a minimum.

6. Make all efforts to know the student’s names by the end of the first day.

7. Handle complaints in a professional manner. If you are approached with a complaint, direct the person to speak with an instructor or coordinator.

Golden Rule: Parents have only 2 contacts with the program – at drop-off in the morning and at pick-up – these are the times when their opinions of you and the program are made – make these impressions good, lasting ones!

A. Communicating with Parents:

1. Use positive statements when talking about the program or the student. 2. If parents have questions, direct them to the Program Coordinator. 3. Never discuss a child or their family with others. Maintain confidentiality! 4. Avoid talking about a child with him/her present. 5. Never give parents your personal phone number.

B. Communicating with Students:

1. Always give directions using positive statements. DO NOT CRITICIZE! 2. Listen to students and respect individual differences. 3. Avoid talking down to students. 4. Never ask students to do something that you would not do yourself. 5. Be sure you are clear in your expectations. 6. Never use bad language.

C. Communicating with Staff:

1. Know who to go to with questions, concerns, etc. 2. Never discuss a child or his/her family with other AITs. 3. Handle staff or AIT problems before or after program hours. Arguments amongst staff and/or

AITs causes tension and affects morale.

Students may not always remember what you say, but they will always remember how you made them feel!


KIDS’ COLLEGE & EXPLORATION GENERAL INFORMATION

1. Kids’ College and Xploration are designed to be an academic and enriching summer experience where participation in the program is voluntary. Once the student has committed to attend, he/she is expected to act appropriately in the college environment.

2. There will be no supervision before or after the stated pick-up and drop-off times. Staff will supervise students at all times during scheduled camp times. During class periods, students on campus must be in their appropriate class.

3. The students registered for the full day program at Kids’ College or Xploration (9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.) must bring a packed lunch. Bathroom breaks will be held between classes and during lunch, except in an emergency.

4. Parents may pack healthy snacks for their children. Food and/or drinks will NOT be available for purchase from the vending machines.

5. Parents or legal guardians are responsible for student transportation to and from the Lake-Sumter State College campuses.

Morning Drop-Off and Half-Day Students get dropped off:

• Leesburg Campus – Gymnasium; Clermont Campus – Parking Lot B (back of Cooper Memorial Library)

• Students may be dropped off beginning at 7:30 a.m. and should arrive by 8:30 a.m.

• Any students arriving after 9:00 a.m. must be taken to the KC Office in SC-107 at the Leesburg Campus and Bldg. 1, Room 124 at the Clermont Campus. No student should be dropped off before 7:30 a.m.

• Morning-Only students must be picked up by 12:30 p.m. at the same location as morning drop-off.

• Afternoon-Only students must arrive at the drop-off location no later than 12:30 p.m.

End of Day Pick-up:

• Leesburg Campus – Gymnasium; Clermont Campus – Parking Lot B (back of Cooper Memorial Library)

• Due to safety concerns, parents must park their car and come inside to the pick-up area to get their children. New this year, we will use barcoded bracelets for dismissal.

• Cars will not be allowed to line up and wait for child’s dismissal.

• All students must be picked up promptly by 5:30 p.m.

Early Pick-up – in Kid’s College office:

• If a student needs to be retrieved early during the day, please call the Kids’ College office at least 15 minutes prior to the pick-up times listed below.

• There is no early pick-up after 3:30 p.m.

6. Consequences for Disciplinary Incidents: Lake-Sumter State College requires that all participants,

regardless of age or grade level, act in accordance to the rules of the college and society. Therefore,

students who have a disciplinary problem in class, with an instructor or in any way during the program, will

have their parents/guardian notified immediately. The appropriate measures will be taken by the

Coordinator and parents/guardian to ensure that the disruptive behavior is not repeated. If a second

behavior problem occurs, the parent/guardian will be notified and the student will be expelled from the KC

program without a refund.


RULES & REGULATIONS

Proper standards of conduct are necessary to protect the health, safety and well-being of all Kids’ College, Xploration and Lake-Sumter State College students. It is impossible to itemize every rule of conduct governing each circumstance, so please use good judgment in your actions. The following actions will NOT BE TOLERATED:

❖ Disruptive behavior of any kind.

❖ Discourtesy to fellow students, staff or the public.

❖ Disregarding the instructions of the Program Coordinator, instructors or other staff members.

❖ Making indecent or sexual remarks or gestures to anyone.

❖ Fighting, threatening to fight with, or assaulting others verbally or physically.

❖ Dishonesty, stealing or unauthorized possession of college property or the property of others.

❖ Going ANYWHERE on campus unescorted by a staff member.

❖ Creating or contributing to unsanitary conditions.

❖ Destruction of property or equipment. This includes, but is not limited to, writing on walls or

anywhere in the building, tearing out pages of books, carving into desks or any other property

belonging to Lake-Sumter State College.

❖ Carelessness or the unnecessary waste of materials.

❖ Horseplay of any kind, whether it results in injury or damages. This includes, but is not limited to:

Yelling in hallways, running, pushing, or throwing of objects.

❖ Sleeping during class hours.

❖ No gum is allowed in the gymnasium.

❖ No radios, tape or CD players, MP3 players, headphones, cell phones or tablets are to be used

during the classroom unless directed by the instructor.

❖ No profanity!

❖ No weapons of any kind or of any size.

Procedure in Case of Injury

If you, or a student, should suffer any injury or illness, no matter how minor it may seem, report it immediately to your instructor. If you have any questions, please ask the instructor or the Program Coordinator.

Emergency Phone Numbers Ambulance & Fire ......................................................................................................911 Campus Security – Clermont .....................................................................................(352) 536-2143 Campus Security – Leesburg .....................................................................................(352) 365-3544 Kids’ College Office – Clermont .................................................................................(352) 243-5722 ext. 2105 Kids’ College Office – Leesburg .................................................................................(352) 787-3747 ext. 4495 Youth Development ..................................................................................................(352) 323-3610


LEESBURG CAMPUS MAP

Williams Johnson Building – HR Office

Liberal Arts Building (LA)

Gym/Magnolia Room

Student Center (SC)

Fine Arts Building (FA)

HR Office

3

LA Bldg.

Student Center – KC Office

7

9

FA Bldg. Greeting Area for student arrival

Teacher & AIT Parking

Office Telephone Numbers: Administrative Office: 352-323-3610 (For registration and information) DeAnna Diggs: 352-323-3610 (KC Director) Kids’ College Operations Office – June 15 – July 23, 2020 352-787-3747 ext. 4495

10

Gym/Magnolia Room

10


CLERMONT CAMPUS MAP

Building 1

Building 2

Cooper Memorial Library (CML)

1

7

3

Office Telephone Numbers: Administrative Office: 352-323-3610 (For registration and information) DeAnna Diggs: 352-323-3610 (KC Director) Kids’ College Operations Office – June 8 – July 30, 2020 Phone: 352-243-5722 ext. 2105

Oakley Seaver Drive

Ha

nco

ck R

oa

d

Ha

nco

ck R

oa

d

Entrance into CML and Bldg. 1

Entrance into Bldgs. 1 & 2

Student Drop-Off & Pick-up

Parent parking for Pick-up

Teacher & AIT parking

Kids’ College Office, 1-124

aides-in-training (ait) leadership program handbook · 2020-02-24 · youth development @ lssc,...

Documents