Confidentiality Policy and Procedures

It is crucial for the well-being of the children, families, staff, and visitors utilizing the program that all matters concerning the business of the center are kept in the strictest confidence.

Policy

All directors, officers, employees, students, and volunteers will hold confidential and will not disclose or release to any person or agency at any time, unless required by law, any information or document pertaining to services provided for or on behalf of any individual, without the written consent of the individual or their parent/guardian prior to the release or disclosure of such information or document. This confidentiality agreement remains in effect during and after the term of the individual's involvement.

Procedure

All staff, students, and volunteers will be required to sign the confidentiality policy upon hiring, whenever there is a policy change, and annually thereafter. After an individual ceases their association with the organization, the confidentiality policy remains in effect. Any breach of this confidentiality will result in an immediate review and appropriate disciplinary actions.

Examples of Violations of Confidentiality Include:

• Speaking about a child in front of him/her.

• Speaking about a child in front of other children.

• Discussing a child with anyone other than the child’s parents and professionals with direct contact with the child.

• Discussing a parent's handling of a situation with another parent.

• Discussing staff, children, and families outside of the confines of the center and its business.

• Discussing financial or personal issues outside of the confines of the center and its business.