Program Terms and Conditions

1. Acceptance of Terms

By submitting an application to participate in an Atelius program ("Program"), you ("Parent/Guardian") agree to these Terms and Conditions on behalf of yourself and the minor participant ("Explorer"). Your submission of an application constitutes your acceptance of these terms in their entirety.

2. Program Description

Atelius programs are educational experiences designed for young people ages 8-16. Programs include hands-on learning activities, team collaboration, project-based work, and mentorship from trained facilitators. Program content, schedules, and activities are subject to change based on educational needs and circumstances.

3. Eligibility and Enrollment

• Explorers must be between 8 and 16 years of age at the time of program participation.
• Applications are subject to review and acceptance at Atelius's discretion.
• Submission of an application does not guarantee enrollment.
• Parents/Guardians must provide accurate and complete information during the application process.
• Enrollment is confirmed only upon receipt of written acceptance and payment of applicable fees.

4. Fees, Payment, and Refunds

• Program fees are communicated at the time of application and must be paid by the specified deadline.
• Scholarships may be available on a limited basis; inquire with program staff for details.
• Refund policies vary by program and will be communicated upon acceptance.
• Generally, cancellations made more than 30 days before the program start date are eligible for a full refund minus administrative fees.
• Cancellations made within 30 days may be eligible for partial refunds or program credits at Atelius's discretion.
• No refunds will be provided for voluntary withdrawal after the program has commenced.

5. Health, Safety, and Medical Authorization

Parents/Guardians are responsible for:

• Disclosing any medical conditions, allergies, dietary restrictions, or learning differences that may affect the Explorer's participation.
• Ensuring the Explorer is in good health and fit to participate in program activities.
• Providing emergency contact information and authorizing emergency medical treatment if the Parent/Guardian cannot be reached.
• Ensuring the Explorer has any required medications and that staff are informed of administration requirements.

Atelius reserves the right to dismiss any Explorer whose health condition poses a risk to themselves or others, or whose behavior is disruptive to the program.

6. Code of Conduct

All Explorers are expected to:

• Treat all participants, staff, and volunteers with respect and kindness.
• Follow instructions from program staff and facilitators.
• Refrain from bullying, harassment, discrimination, or violent behavior.
• Use equipment and materials responsibly and safely.
• Respect the property of others and the program venue.

Violation of the code of conduct may result in dismissal from the program without refund.

7. Photo and Media Release

If photo consent is granted during the application process, Atelius may photograph, video record, or otherwise capture images of the Explorer during program activities. These materials may be used for educational purposes, marketing, social media, website content, and promotional materials. Parents/Guardians may withdraw consent at any time by providing written notice, though materials already published may not be retrievable.

8. Intellectual Property

Projects, inventions, and creative works developed by Explorers during the program remain the intellectual property of the Explorer. However, Atelius reserves the right to showcase, display, and describe such works for educational and promotional purposes, with appropriate credit to the Explorer.

9. Assumption of Risk and Liability Waiver

Program activities may include hands-on work with tools, equipment, and materials that carry inherent risks. By enrolling, Parents/Guardians acknowledge and accept these risks.

To the fullest extent permitted by law, Parents/Guardians agree to release, indemnify, and hold harmless Atelius, its officers, directors, employees, volunteers, and agents from any and all claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses arising from the Explorer's participation in the program, except in cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct by Atelius.

10. Privacy and Data Protection

Atelius is committed to protecting the privacy of Explorers and their families. Personal information collected during the application and program is used solely for program administration, communication, and improvement. We do not sell or share personal information with third parties for marketing purposes.

11. Program Modifications and Cancellation

Atelius reserves the right to modify program content, schedules, venues, or staff as necessary. In the event that Atelius cancels a program, enrolled participants will receive a full refund of fees paid. Atelius is not responsible for any other costs incurred by participants, including travel or accommodation expenses.

United States - Specific Provisions

Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA)

For Explorers under 13 years of age, Atelius complies with the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). We obtain verifiable parental consent before collecting personal information from children under 13. Parents have the right to review, delete, or refuse further collection of their child's personal information by contacting us at privacy@atelius.org.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Atelius is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for Explorers with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Please inform us of any accommodation needs during the application process so we can work together to ensure meaningful participation.

Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA)

While Atelius programs are not formal educational institutions subject to FERPA, we apply similar principles of confidentiality to Explorer records and educational information.

State-Specific Requirements

Additional terms may apply based on the state in which the program operates. Staff-to-participant ratios, background check requirements, and safety protocols comply with applicable state regulations for youth programs.

Governing Law (US Programs)

For programs held in the United States, these terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the state in which the program takes place, without regard to its conflict of law provisions.

India - Specific Provisions

Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023 (DPDPA)

Atelius processes personal data in compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. For Explorers under 18 years of age, verifiable consent is obtained from a parent or lawful guardian before processing personal data. Data principals (parents/guardians) have the right to access, correct, and erase personal data, and to withdraw consent at any time.

Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act (POCSO), 2012

Atelius maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward any form of child abuse. All staff and volunteers undergo background verification. Any concerns or incidents are reported to appropriate authorities as mandated by POCSO. We maintain child protection policies and procedures in accordance with the Act.

Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

Atelius programs operate in compliance with the Juvenile Justice Act and prioritize the best interests of the child in all decisions and activities.

Right to Education Act (RTE), 2009

While Atelius programs are supplementary educational experiences and not formal schooling, we support the principles of inclusive education and do not discriminate based on caste, religion, gender, or socioeconomic status.

Information Technology Act, 2000

Electronic records and communications related to program enrollment are maintained in compliance with the Information Technology Act, 2000 and associated rules.

Governing Law (India Programs)

For programs held in India, these terms shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of India. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of courts in the city where the program center is located.

12. Contact Information

For questions about these terms, privacy concerns, or program inquiries, please contact: