Drop off is between 7:00am and 8:00am.
Structured programming runs from 8:00am to 12:30pm.
Pick up is at 12:30pm.

We offer early drop-off to support working families while maintaining a focused learning environment.

No.

This is a small-cohort educational leadership lab designed for Grades 8 and up. Students participate in structured, hands-on learning connected to environmental science, animal welfare, food systems, and community resilience.

This program is designed for students in 8th grade and above.

Students should be mature enough to follow safety instructions and work respectfully in a farm and sanctuary environment.

Students should bring:

• Closed-toe shoes
• Comfortable outdoor clothing
• A reusable water bottle
• A packed snack & lunch
• Sunscreen and hat

We provide shade structures and hydration access.

Yes, in a structured and supervised format.

Students will learn about humane handling, enrichment design, and ethical care. All activities are safety-guided and age-appropriate.

Students are never placed in unsafe situations.

Yes.

This is an outdoor, hands-on program. We maintain a heat-aware schedule, shade access, and hydration breaks to ensure safety and comfort.

Yes.

Students receive documented service hours for participation and project work completed during the program.

Parents must disclose allergies and medical needs in the registration form.

We will review accommodations on a case-by-case basis to ensure safety.

Yes.

Sliding scale and sponsored seats are available.
Priority outreach is offered to students from Desert Hot Springs, Indio, Mecca, and Thermal.

If cost is a barrier, please contact us.

Students are supervised at all times.

We maintain:

• Small group size
• Clearly defined work zones
• First aid protocols
• Emergency contact procedures
• Structured activity blocks

Safety is a top priority.

Every Esperanza's team member is livescan background cleared through the FBI and DOJ.

Insert your policy here:

Refunds available until: March 15th 2026
Transfer policy: You may transfer your paid for space to another student who is eligible for this program for a 25.00 administrative fee that covers the forms, review, etc for the new student.

Spring Break Climate & Community Leadership Lab
Esperanza’s Sanctuary

Esperanza’s Sanctuary is committed to maintaining a physically and emotionally safe learning environment for all participants, staff, volunteers, and animals.

Participation in this program requires respectful behavior at all times.

All students are expected to:

• Treat peers, staff, volunteers, and guests with respect
• Use appropriate and inclusive language
• Follow all safety instructions immediately
• Respect personal boundaries
• Respect the land, tools, and facilities
• Treat all animals with care and compassion

This is a learning environment built on mutual respect, responsibility, and community.

Zero Tolerance Policy

The following behaviors will not be tolerated:

• Bullying, intimidation, or harassment
• Racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, ableist, or otherwise discriminatory language
• Threats or aggressive behavior
• Physical harm or intentional harm toward any person
• Harm, rough handling, teasing, or intentional distress toward animals
• Destruction of property
• Refusal to follow safety instructions

Animal Safety and Welfare

Esperanza’s Sanctuary is a working animal sanctuary.

Animals are not entertainment.

Any intentional mistreatment, rough handling, teasing, chasing, or disregard for animal safety protocols will result in immediate removal from animal-related activities and may result in dismissal from the program.

Animal welfare is non-negotiable.

Respect for a Safe Space

This program is designed to be a safe and inclusive space for youth from diverse communities and backgrounds.

We expect:

• Respect for cultural differences
• Respect for identity and lived experience
• Respect for differing viewpoints expressed respectfully

Students who compromise the safety or dignity of others will be removed from the program.

Disciplinary Proces

If a behavioral concern arises:

A verbal warning will be issued when appropriate.

Parents or guardians may be contacted.

Continued or serious violations may result in immediate dismissal from the program without refund.

Certain behaviors, including physical aggression or animal harm, may result in immediate removal without warning.

Parent and Guardian Agreement

By registering for this program, parents and guardians acknowledge:

• They have reviewed this Behavioral Conduct Policy
• They understand expectations for participation
• They support removal if safety guidelines are violated