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Terms and Conditions

Please read these terms carefully before participating in Beyond Classroom programs and activities.

Effective Date: January 1, 2024 | Last Updated: January 2024

Table of Contents

1. Acceptance of Terms

By registering for, participating in, or accessing any Beyond Classroom programs, events, services, or activities (collectively, "Services"), you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions ("Terms").

If you are under 18 years of age, your parent or legal guardian must also agree to these Terms on your behalf. By allowing a minor to participate in Beyond Classroom activities, the parent or guardian agrees to these Terms and accepts responsibility for the minor's compliance.

If you do not agree with any part of these Terms, you must not register for or participate in any Beyond Classroom programs or activities.

2. About Beyond Classroom

Beyond Classroom is a volunteer-based, student-led nonprofit initiative dedicated to bridging the gap between academia and industry professionals. Our organization operates entirely through the voluntary efforts of students, advisors, mentors, and community members.

Key points about our organization:

  • We are a volunteer-based organization with no paid staff
  • All services, including mentorship matching, are provided free of charge
  • Our officers, board members, advisors, and volunteers donate their time and expertise
  • We do not guarantee any specific outcomes from participation in our programs

3. Eligibility and Registration

To participate in Beyond Classroom programs, you must:

  • Provide accurate and complete information during registration
  • Be a high school student (for student/mentee programs) or a professional with relevant experience (for mentor programs)
  • Have parental or guardian consent if under 18 years of age
  • Agree to abide by all program rules and guidelines

Beyond Classroom reserves the right to refuse or revoke participation for any individual who violates these Terms or engages in conduct deemed inappropriate or harmful to the organization or its participants.

4. Data Collection and Privacy

By signing up for any Beyond Classroom program or service, you agree to the following regarding your personal data:

4.1 Information We Collect

We may collect the following information:

  • Name, email address, and contact information
  • School name, grade level, and academic interests
  • Professional information (for mentors and advisors)
  • Photographs and videos taken during events
  • Any information you voluntarily provide in forms or communications

4.2 How We Use Your Data

Your data may be used to:

  • Facilitate program registration and participation
  • Match mentees with appropriate mentors
  • Communicate about events, programs, and opportunities
  • Improve our services and programs
  • Share with matched mentors/mentees as necessary for the mentorship relationship

4.3 Consent to Share Information

Important: By registering for Beyond Classroom programs, you consent to the sharing of your provided information with relevant parties (such as matched mentors, event organizers, and program coordinators) as necessary to facilitate your participation in our programs.

5. Media Release and Publicity

5.1 Consent to Use of Images and Media

By participating in Beyond Classroom events, programs, or activities, you grant Beyond Classroom and its authorized representatives the irrevocable right and permission to:

  • Take photographs and/or video recordings of you during events and activities
  • Use, reproduce, publish, and distribute such photographs and videos in any media format
  • Use these materials for promotional purposes, including but not limited to social media, websites, newsletters, press releases, and marketing materials
  • Use your name, likeness, and biographical information in connection with such materials

This consent is granted without compensation and applies to all current and future uses of such materials by Beyond Classroom.

5.2 Opting Out of Media Use

Photo/Video Exclusion: If you wish to be excluded from photographs or videos used for promotional purposes, you must notify Beyond Classroom in writing prior to the event or activity by emailing media@beyondclassroom.org. We will make reasonable efforts to honor such requests, but cannot guarantee complete exclusion from group photographs or incidental captures.

To request exclusion, please include:

  • Your full name
  • The specific event(s) or program(s) you are participating in
  • Clear statement of your request to be excluded from media use

6. Mentorship Program Terms

The Beyond Classroom Mentorship Program connects high school students (mentees) with industry professionals (mentors) on a voluntary basis. By participating in this program, you agree to the following terms:

6.1 Nature of the Program

  • Beyond Classroom is a volunteer-based organization
  • All mentors participate on a voluntary basis and are not obligated to provide any specific amount of time, advice, or assistance
  • Beyond Classroom's role is limited to matching and introducing mentors and mentees
  • Beyond Classroom does not supervise, control, or direct the mentorship relationship after the initial introduction

6.2 Mentor and Mentee Responsibilities

Once matched, the mentor and mentee are responsible for:

  • Determining goals: The mentor and mentee shall work together to establish the objectives and goals of their mentorship sessions
  • Scheduling: Both parties are responsible for coordinating meeting times that work for their schedules
  • Communication: Maintaining professional and respectful communication throughout the relationship
  • Achieving objectives: Working collaboratively to achieve the mutually agreed-upon goals of the mentorship

6.3 Program Limitations

Important: Beyond Classroom's responsibility is limited to the initial matching and introduction of mentors and mentees. We do not guarantee the quality, frequency, or outcomes of mentorship relationships. Mentors are volunteers and are not obligated to continue participation or provide any minimum level of service.

  • Mentor matching is subject to availability and is not guaranteed
  • Beyond Classroom does not guarantee any specific outcomes, including but not limited to internship placements, job offers, college admissions, or career advancement
  • Either party may terminate the mentorship relationship at any time
  • Beyond Classroom is not responsible for any disagreements, disputes, or issues that arise between mentors and mentees

6.4 Information Sharing

By participating in the Mentorship Program:

  • Mentees consent to sharing their application information with their matched mentor
  • Mentors consent to sharing their professional information with matched mentees
  • Both parties agree to maintain confidentiality regarding personal information shared during the mentorship

7. Code of Conduct

All participants in Beyond Classroom programs must:

  • Treat all participants, volunteers, mentors, and staff with respect and professionalism
  • Communicate in a professional and appropriate manner
  • Be punctual and prepared for scheduled meetings and events
  • Provide timely notice (minimum 24 hours) if unable to attend a scheduled session
  • Maintain confidentiality of information shared by other participants
  • Refrain from any form of harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior
  • Not use Beyond Classroom programs for commercial solicitation or personal gain
  • Report any concerns or violations to Beyond Classroom immediately

Violation of this Code of Conduct may result in immediate removal from all Beyond Classroom programs without notice.

8. Limitation of Liability

TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW:

8.1 Protection of Organization and Leadership

Beyond Classroom, its officers, directors, board members, advisors, mentors, volunteers, team members, and representatives (collectively, "Protected Parties") shall not be liable for any:

  • Direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages
  • Loss of profits, data, or other intangible losses
  • Personal injury or property damage arising from participation in programs
  • Actions, advice, or omissions of mentors, speakers, or other participants
  • Technical failures, interruptions, or errors in services
  • Any outcomes or lack thereof from mentorship or program participation

8.2 Volunteer Protection

All Protected Parties serve in a volunteer capacity and shall be protected from personal liability for any acts or omissions made in good faith within the scope of their volunteer roles. This includes but is not limited to:

  • Advice or guidance provided by mentors or advisors
  • Decisions regarding program participation or mentor matching
  • Event planning and execution
  • Communications on behalf of Beyond Classroom

9. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Beyond Classroom and all Protected Parties from and against any and all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs, and expenses (including reasonable attorneys' fees) arising out of or related to:

  • Your participation in Beyond Classroom programs
  • Your violation of these Terms
  • Your violation of any rights of another person or entity
  • Any content or information you provide to Beyond Classroom
  • Your conduct during mentorship sessions or events

10. Disclaimers

10.1 No Professional Advice

Information and guidance provided through Beyond Classroom programs, including by mentors and speakers, is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute professional, legal, medical, financial, or career advice. Participants should consult qualified professionals for specific advice.

10.2 No Guarantees

Beyond Classroom makes no warranties or guarantees regarding:

  • The availability of mentors or program spots
  • The quality or suitability of mentor matches
  • Career outcomes, internship placements, or educational opportunities
  • The accuracy of information provided by speakers or mentors
  • The continuous availability of services

11. Modifications to Terms

Beyond Classroom reserves the right to modify these Terms at any time. Changes will be effective immediately upon posting on our website. Your continued participation in Beyond Classroom programs after any changes constitutes your acceptance of the modified Terms.

We encourage you to review these Terms periodically for updates.

12. Contact Information

If you have questions about these Terms and Conditions, please contact us:

By participating in any Beyond Classroom program or activity, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these Terms and Conditions.