Privacy Policy

Effective Date: May 11th, 2026

STEP – Student Transformation & Exploration Program (“STEP,” “we,” “our,” or “us”) is committed to protecting the privacy and safety of all website visitors, including minors. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, store, and protect information obtained through our website and programs.

By using our website, you agree to the practices described in this Privacy Policy.

1. Organization Information

STEP is an educational nonprofit organization focused on helping students in grades 8–12 explore career pathways, develop professional skills, and pursue post-secondary opportunities.

For questions regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact:

STEP – Student Transformation & Exploration Program through contact form on website.

2. Information We Collect

We may collect the following information from website users:

A. Information Voluntarily Provided

Users may voluntarily provide:

• Name

• Email address

• Phone number

• School or grade level

• Parent/guardian contact information

• Information submitted through forms, applications, surveys, or mentorship interest forms

B. Automatically Collected Information

When users visit the website, certain technical information may automatically be collected, including:

• IP address

• Browser type

• Device type

• Pages visited

• Date and time of access

• General website usage information

This information is collected to improve website functionality and security.

3. Protection of Minors

STEP recognizes the importance of protecting the privacy of minors.

A. Children Under 13

STEP does not knowingly collect personal information online from children under the age of 13 without appropriate parental or guardian consent.

If STEP becomes aware that personal information from a child under 13 has been collected without verified parental consent, the information will be deleted promptly.

B. Students Ages 13–17

STEP may collect limited personal information from students ages 13–17 for educational and mentorship-related purposes.

Where appropriate, STEP may request parent or guardian consent before participation in certain activities, mentorship programs, or communications.

C. Parent and Guardian Rights

Parents and guardians may contact STEP to:

• Review information collected from their child

• Request correction of inaccurate information

• Request deletion of information

• Withdraw consent for future communications

4. How We Use Information

STEP may use collected information to:

• Provide educational resources and mentorship opportunities

• Respond to inquiries

• Communicate about programs, events, and opportunities

• Improve website functionality and user experience

• Maintain safety and security

• Comply with legal obligations

STEP does not sell personal information.

5. Information Sharing

STEP does not sell, rent, or trade personal information.

Information may only be shared:

• With service providers assisting in website or program operations

• When legally required

• To protect the safety, rights, or property of STEP, participants, or others

• With parent or guardian consent where applicable

Any third parties assisting STEP are expected to maintain appropriate confidentiality and security protections.

6. Cookies and Tracking Technologies

The STEP website may use cookies or similar technologies to improve website performance and user experience.

Users may adjust browser settings to disable cookies; however, some website features may not function properly.

7. Data Security

STEP takes reasonable administrative, technical, and physical measures to protect personal information from unauthorized access, disclosure, misuse, or loss.

However, no internet transmission or electronic storage system can be guaranteed to be completely secure.

8. Third-Party Links

The STEP website may contain links to third-party websites, including educational resources or partner organizations.

STEP is not responsible for the privacy practices or content of external websites.

Users should review the privacy policies of any third-party websites they visit.

9. Media and Photographs

STEP may use photographs, videos, testimonials, or other media for educational, promotional, or informational purposes.

For minors, STEP will obtain appropriate parent or guardian consent before using identifiable images or media where required.

10. Data Retention

STEP retains information only for as long as reasonably necessary to fulfill organizational, educational, legal, or operational purposes.

Information that is no longer needed may be securely deleted.

11. User Rights

Website users may request to:

• Access personal information

• Correct inaccurate information

• Request deletion of information

• Opt out of non-essential communications

Requests may be submitted using the contact information listed in this Privacy Policy.

12. Accessibility

STEP is committed to making its website accessible and usable for all individuals.

Users experiencing accessibility issues may contact STEP for assistance.

13. Changes to This Privacy Policy

STEP may update this Privacy Policy periodically.

Any updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

Continued use of the website after updates constitutes acceptance of the revised policy.

14. Consent

By using the STEP website, users acknowledge and agree to the terms of this Privacy Policy.

15. Contact Information

Questions regarding this Privacy Policy may be directed to:

STEP – Student Transformation & Exploration Program