The information in this section applies to all members (students, mentors/volunteers, and parents) who are involved in programs run by growingSTEMS at The Hive. These rules also apply at The Hive and at team events sponsored by growingSTEMS. Some programs will have additional requirements that are listed under each program’s section in this handbook.

All members will be respectful and exhibit age-appropriate behavior at all times. Horseplay can be dangerous around power tools and equipment and is not acceptable. Disrespecting teammates is contrary to the core values of the programs in which we participate. Discrimination for any reason will not be tolerated.

All members will respect and take care of the facility and any tools they use. Resources should not be wasted purposefully and reusable kits should be returned in the form in which they were found. Members who intentionally damage or destroy growingSTEMS property will be required to replace the item.

None of us know everything and none of us think we know everything. However, we are willing to listen and learn and we expect the same from you. Sometimes we will walk you through things and other times we will pose open-ended questions that point you in the correct direction to find your answer. We simply ask for an open mind and some effort on your part to learn something new. At the end of the day, you will likely teach us something new as well.

No member may bring on growingSTEMS property a weapon requiring a state permit to carry, unless they are a current law enforcement officer with the requirement to carry. This is the same restriction found in schools and colleges/universities. Other restricted items include flammable liquids (e.g., gasoline) and other explosives (e.g., dynamite, gunpowder, hand grenades).

All growingSTEMS properties and activities are illicit drugs, tobacco, cannabis, vaping, and alcohol-free. Exceptions to these restrictions (e.g, medical marijuana) may be made on a case-by-case basis and by the Executive Director.

The machine shop contains the majority of our heavy equipment and power tools. This facility is primarily used by our FRC and combat programs but is open to all STEM programs as appropriate.

Due to the risk of injury associated with the equipment in the machine shop, the usage of this room is limited to qualified and trained individuals.

When the machine shop is being used the doors to the room should be closed. This is a courtesy that is afforded to other individuals in The Hive, as the equipment that is located in that room can get rather loud.

Must be supervised by a mentor when combat is taking place, safety equipment must be worn

Members who are sick, or feel unwell, should not attend program events until they are well. Participants are expected to use their best judgment to determine when they are too sick or unwell to attend program events. However, if they are visibly unwell then they may be asked to leave to ensure the safety of other individuals in the facility.

Additional temporary measures may be implemented by growingSTEMS to prevent illness in extreme circumstances (such as the COVID-19 pandemic). They may include reduced capacity, mask policies, or restrictions based on national/local guidance or best practices as determined by growingSTEMS.

The Hive and all team activities are drug, tobacco, vaping, and alcohol-free. The only exceptions are for prescribed medications when used under the direction of a medical professional and over-the-counter medications.

Those individuals who are prescribed medications, or provided over-the-counter medications, are expected to use them appropriately and as directed by the labels. Individuals who need assistance with medication administration are encouraged to ask a volunteer.

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