Privacy policy
At Little Bear School House Museum and Historical Society, we are committed to protecting the privacy of every child, parent, volunteer, and community member who engages with us. This Privacy Policy explains how we collect, use, and safeguard personal information, both online and offline, and outlines the rights and choices available to you. By participating in our programs, visiting our museum, or using our website, you agree to the practices described below.
Information We Collect
We may collect the following types of information:
- Personal details provided by families: names, addresses, phone numbers, and email addresses shared during enrollment, event registration, or volunteer sign‑up
- Child information: age, grade level, and relevant health or developmental details necessary to ensure safety and appropriate program placement
- Payment information: limited details required for processing donations, event fees, or program tuition. We do not store full credit card numbers
- Website usage data: non‑identifiable information such as IP addresses, browser type, and pages visited, collected through cookies or analytics tools to improve our website experience
- Volunteer and employment applications: resumes, references, and background check information, used solely for recruitment and safety purposes
How We Use Your Information
We use the information we collect to provide safe, high‑quality educational programs and museum experiences, communicate with families about enrollment, schedules, events, and updates, process donations and payments securely, maintain accurate records for compliance and safety, improve our website and outreach, and ensure the safety of children by conducting background checks on staff and volunteers. We will never sell or rent your personal information to third parties.
Sharing of Information
We may share information only in the following limited circumstances: with trusted service providers for payment processing, email communication, or website hosting under strict confidentiality agreements; as required by law to comply with legal obligations, court orders, or government requests; for child safety if necessary to protect the health, safety, or well‑being of a child or community member; and with parental consent for photographs, testimonials, or stories used in promotional materials.
Data Security
We take the security of your information seriously. Measures include secure servers and encrypted data storage, restricted access to sensitive information limited to authorized staff, regular review of safety protocols and staff training, and secure handling of paper records stored in locked facilities. While no system is completely immune to risk, we are committed to maintaining the highest standards of protection.
Your Rights and Choices
As a parent, guardian, or community member, you have the right to access the personal information we hold about you or your child, request corrections to inaccurate or outdated information, withdraw consent for the use of photographs or stories, request deletion of your information subject to legal and safety requirements, and opt out of email communications at any time by contacting us.
Use of Cookies and Website Data
Our website may use cookies and analytics tools to improve user experience. Cookies help us understand how visitors use our site, allowing us to make improvements. You can disable cookies in your browser settings, though some features of the site may not function properly without them.
Children’s Privacy
Protecting children’s privacy is central to our mission. We collect only the information necessary to provide safe and effective programs. We do not knowingly collect personal information from children online without parental consent. Parents may review or request deletion of their child’s information at any time.
Third‑Party Links
Our website may contain links to external sites, such as partner organizations or educational resources. We are not responsible for the privacy practices of these third‑party sites and encourage families to review their policies.
Updates to This Policy
We may update this Privacy Policy from time to time to reflect changes in our practices, programs, or legal requirements. Updates will be posted on our website, and significant changes will be communicated directly to families and volunteers.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, concerns, or requests regarding this Privacy Policy, please contact us:
- Email: info@lbsh.lat
- Mailing Address: PO BOX 439, Gallatin Gateway, MT 59730-7000
We are committed to responding promptly and respectfully to all inquiries.