During Sessions
Personal phones and devices are on silent and out of sight during active program sessions.
- Phone calls (step outside if genuine emergency)
- Personal texting or messaging
- Personal social media browsing
- Personal photography or video of any kind
- Looking up a program-related resource
- Contacting the Program Lead about a session issue
- Responding to a genuine emergency
Photography — Absolute Rules
- No photographs or video of participants on personal devices, ever
- No photographs of participants' work without consent noted on the sign-in sheet
- No screenshots of program materials for personal use
- All program photography must use POIETO-designated equipment and follow the Photography & Media Consent Policy
POIETO Program Computers
Program computers at partner sites are for program use only during session time.
- Personal email on program computers is not permitted during sessions
- Personal social media on program computers is not permitted during sessions
- Unrelated browsing on program computers is not permitted during sessions
Between Sessions
Between sessions, personal devices may be used normally.
Why This Policy Exists
Participants have a right to a focused, safe program environment. Phones signal distraction and disrespect. Photography of participants without explicit consent — even well-intentioned — creates serious legal and safety risk, particularly for youth.
This policy protects participants, staff, and POIETO.
Violation
Violations are reviewed under POIETO's zero-tolerance framework for participant harm. Intent does not mitigate the violation.
Acknowledgment & Signature
By signing below, I confirm that I have read, understood, and agree to comply with this policy. I understand that violations — particularly unauthorized photography of participants — may result in immediate removal from participant contact and termination.