Accreditation
Kingsmont is an accredited member of the
American Camp Association (ACA). ACA accreditation means that Camp Kingsmont has submitted to a
thorough review of its operations by the ACA. The review included an on-site inspection as well as an extensive
review and discussion of written operating policies and procedures.
ACA accreditation demonstrates a camp’s commitment to a safe and nurturing
environment for both campers and staff. The voluntary accreditation assures
parents that camp practices have been measured against national standards
and go a step beyond state and federal licensing requirements.
Accreditation Standards
The accreditation standards establish guidelines for needed policies,
procedures and practices in the areas of site and food service, transportation,
health and wellness, operational management, human resources and program
design and activities.
The ACA collaborates with experts from the American Academy of Pediatrics,
the American Red Cross and other youth-serving agencies to assure that
current practices at the camp reflect the most up-to-date research based
standards in camp operation. Camp Kingsmont and the ACA form a partnership
that promotes summers of growth and fun in an environment committed to
safety.
Camp Kingsmont was able to secure ACA accreditation on the campus of
Hampshire College due in part to the efforts of the Hampshire College
staff. The dormitories, kitchen, dining hall, pool and other athletic
venues must satisfy annual licensing requirements in Massachusetts. The
licensing requirements in Massachusetts are generally quite rigorous
compared to other states and at times exceed the ACA standards.
Licensing and State Regulations
Each summer Camp Kingsmont secures a license to operate a residential
camp from the Town of Amherst Department of Public Health. While the
requirements to secure a license from the Department of Public Health
are not as broad as the ACA standards, in certain areas the licensing
requirements are far more rigorous. The Department of Public Health pays
particular attention to staff qualifications, general safety, overall
quality of health care and staff and camper immunizations.
Camp Kingsmont must comply with the Massachusetts Regulations for Minimum
Standards for Recreational Camps for Children (State Sanitary Code, Chapter
IV, 105 CMR 430.000 et seq.). A complete copy of the standards can be
found at www.amherstma.gov. The Amherst Health
Department can be reached at 413-259-3077.