For Parents
Safety & Trust
Our First Priority
Student Safety Is the Foundation of Everything We Do
Sending your child to a residential summer program is a big decision. Before we talk about championships or curriculum, we want you to know exactly how we keep your child safe, healthy, and supported — every hour of every day.
Ascend runs on university campuses with full-time staff, an on-site medical authority, background-checked coaches, and a support system built so that no student ever has to struggle alone. If you have a question that isn't answered here, we'd rather you ask — schedule a call or email info@ascendspeech.org.
How We Keep Students Safe
Six Layers of Protection
Around-the-Clock Supervision
Students are supervised at all times, with full-time staff living on site, nightly room checks before lights-out, and a structured daily schedule from morning warm-ups to evening free time.
On-Site Medical Authority & Wellness
A dedicated medical authority — our Director of Health — is on site for the entire program to handle both physical and mental health needs, backed by the university's own health services.
Background-Checked Staff
Every staff member is background-checked in accordance with state law. Your child is taught and supervised by experienced, vetted coaches — not first-year volunteers.
Secure Campuses
We host at established university campuses that maintain their own 24/7 public safety departments, with controlled residential buildings and staff present throughout.
Clear Code of Conduct
We maintain and enforce a clear Code of Conduct to ensure a respectful, inclusive environment for every student. Rules and expectations are explained to all campers on day one.
Parents Stay Connected
Parents can reach us anytime during camp through a dedicated 24/7 contact line. You're never out of touch with the people caring for your child.
Mental Health & Belonging
No Student Struggles Alone
Two weeks away from home is a growth experience — and sometimes a challenging one. Homesickness, anxiety, social nerves, and the normal ups and downs of learning something hard are all part of it. What matters is that every student knows help is close by and easy to reach.
If a student is ever struggling, we want them to speak up.
From the first day, campers are told plainly: if you're dealing with anxiety, homesickness, a social challenge, or a health issue — physical or mental — go straight to a trusted adult. Our support system includes:
- Quest Sandel, our Camp Director, and the full administrative team
- Our Director of Health (Medical Authority), on site for the entirety of camp
- Every Lab Leader, Junior Instructor, and staff member — all trained to listen and connect students to the right person
The worst thing a student can do is keep a struggle to themselves. We make asking for help normal, easy, and safe — and families are surprised by how robust that support system really is.
A Culture of Care
Structure That Keeps Kids Safe — and Happy
Safety isn't only about rules; it's about a well-run camp where students are busy, supported, and part of a community. Our days are structured from morning warm-ups through supervised evening free time, so students always know where to be and who to turn to.
The result is an environment where campers can take intellectual risks, make lifelong friends, and grow — knowing the adults around them have their backs.
See a Day at Camp