Overview of SpeakZone Services

Speak Zone connects English learners with fluent English-speaking volunteers around the world for free, one-on-one online conversation sessions. These meetings are held over Zoom and are designed to help learners improve their spoken English in a supportive, friendly environment. Some participants may be under the age of 18, and their safety is a top priority for us.

Our Commitment to Child Safety

Speak Zone works with learners of all ages, including minors, and we are fully committed to creating a safe, respectful, and supportive environment for everyone. We take seriously our responsibility to protect the privacy and well-being of young participants. All tutors, staff, and volunteers are expected to follow Speak Zone’s policies on professional conduct, boundaries, and communication, especially when working with children or teens.

Policies and Procedures

Parental Consent

Any student under the age of 18 must have permission from a parent or legal guardian to participate in Speak Zone sessions. We may require written or verbal confirmation. Parents are welcome to reach out at any time if they have concerns or questions about their child’s experience with our program.

Volunteer Screening

All volunteers must complete an application form and indicate whether they are 18 or older. Volunteers who are 18+ and are matched with minors may be asked to undergo additional screening or provide references. We reserve the right to deny or end participation if safety standards are not met.

Safe Matching and Communication

We carefully consider time zones, availability, preferences, and age when pairing tutors with learners. While we aim to create comfortable peer-like pairings, adults matched with minors must maintain a professional tone and avoid sharing personal or inappropriate content. Communication outside of Zoom sessions must happen through official Speak Zone channels unless otherwise approved.

Video Sessions

Speak Zone sessions take place on Zoom. For learners under 18, we recommend that a parent or guardian be aware of the meeting time and space. All sessions should be held in a public or quiet shared area, not in private bedrooms, and with the camera on when possible.

Reporting Concerns

If a parent, student, or volunteer ever feels uncomfortable or witnesses inappropriate behavior, they should contact us immediately at info@speakzone.com. We are committed to responding quickly and taking all reports seriously. Anyone found violating our child safety policies may be removed from the program.

1. Introduction

• Welcome to Speak Zone, a volunteer-based nonprofit program connecting English learners with fluent speakers for free one-on-one English conversation sessions via Zoom. These Terms of

• Service ("Terms") govern your use of the Speak Zone platform, including our website, communications, and tutoring sessions ("Service").

• By using Speak Zone, you agree to these Terms and our Privacy Policy. If you do not agree with any part of the Terms, you may not use our Service.

2. Communications

• By using our Service, you may receive program-related emails such as reminders, updates, or feedback. You may opt out of optional emails at any time by emailing us at info@speakzone.org.

3. Recognition and Awards

SpeakZone may occasionally offer recognition awards, certificates, or special programs. Any such programs may have their own rules or requirements. Participation is optional.

4. Content

All content provided by Speak Zone (lesson plans, graphics, forms, etc.) is owned by Speak Zone or shared with permission. You may not reuse, modify, distribute, or republish this content without written permission from the Speak Zone team.

5. Prohibited Uses

You agree to use the Service only for legal, respectful, and appropriate purposes. Prohibited uses include but are not limited to:

1. Violating any applicable laws.

2. Exploiting or attempting to exploit minors.

3. Sending spam or harmful content.

4. Pretending to be someone else or misusing another person's identity.

5. Disrupting sessions or harming the program's operations.

6. Using automated bots or software to access or interfere with the Service Analytics.

We may use analytics tools to monitor the effectiveness and performance of our website and communication tools. This helps us improve your experience and track program growth.

7. Minimum Age

Speak Zone is intended for learners and volunteers aged 14 and older. Learners under 18 must have parent or guardian consent to participate. We do not knowingly allow anyone under 14 to use the platform without parental approval.

8. Participant Responsibility

When you sign up for Speak Zone, you agree to provide accurate and honest information. You are responsible for your communication and participation. Volunteers agree not to share personal contact details with students. SpeakZone may remove users who do not follow these rules.

9. Intellectual Property

All original content and resources created by SpeakZone are protected by copyright. You may not reuse, edit, or distribute this content for personal or commercial purposes without permission.

10. Copyright Policy

If you believe any Speak Zone content infringes on your copyright, contact us at info@speakzone.org with a subject line 'Copyright Notice' and include a detailed explanation.

11. Links to Third-Party Sites

Speak Zone may link to outside resources or educational tools. We are not responsible for the content or privacy policies of those third-party sites. Users should review those terms separately.

12. Disclaimer of Warranty

Speak Zone is provided 'as is.' We do not guarantee uninterrupted access, perfect accuracy, or error-free content. We are not responsible for any issues arising from using the program or website.

13. Limitation of Liability

To the extent permitted by law, you agree not to hold Speak Zone liable for any indirect or incidental damages related to your use of the Service.

14. Termination

We may suspend or end your access to Speak Zone at any time if you violate our terms or policies. You may also stop using Speak Zone at any time by notifying us.

15. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the laws of the United States. Any disputes will be resolved in accordance with applicable local, state, or federal law.

16. Changes to Service

We may update or revise these Terms of Service. Any updates will be shared via email or posted on our website. Continued use of the Service means you accept the changes.

17. Acknowledgement

By participating in Speak Zone, you confirm that you have read and agree to these Terms of Service.

18. Contact Us

If you have any questions, contact us at: info@speakzone.org.

Introduction

Speak Zone is committed to protecting the privacy and security of all individuals who interact with our services. This Privacy Policy outlines how we collect, use, and safeguard your personal information in accordance with applicable laws. By using Speak Zone’s services, including our sign-up forms, sessions, and communications, you agree to the terms outlined below.

Interpretation and Definitions

The following definitions apply regardless of whether they are used in singular or plural form:

• “Speak Zone,” “we,” “our,” or “us” refers to the organization and its team responsible for running the English tutoring platform.

• “Service” refers to all websites, programs, forms, sessions, and communication tools provided by SpeakZone.

• “You” or “User” refers to any participant in our services, including learners, volunteer tutors, and parents or guardians.

• “Personal Data” means any information that can be used to identify a person, including names, emails, or contact information.

• “Device” means any technology used to access Speak Zone’s services, such as a computer, tablet, or phone.

• “Session” refers to scheduled English practice meetings held via Zoom or similar video conferencing platforms.

What Data We Collect

When you use Speak Zone, we may collect the following types of information:

• Your name, email address, and country of residence

• Time zone and availability for sessions

• Language proficiency level

• Age or age confirmation

• Any information shared in communications with our team or on forms

• Optional information such as phone number, preferences, and goals

We may also collect technical or usage data from our website, including browser type or device type, to help us provide technical support or improve our services.

How We Use Your Data

We use your information to:

• Match learners with tutors based on age, availability, and goals

• Schedule and manage conversation sessions

• Communicate about updates, reminders, and feedback

• Monitor participation and improve user experience

We do not sell, rent, or share your personal data with third parties. Only authorized Speak Zone administrators can access your data for program purposes.

Parental Consent and Youth Privacy

Learners under the age of 18 must have written permission from a parent or legal guardian to join Speak Zone. We do not knowingly collect data from children under 14. If we become aware that a child under 14 has submitted personal information without verified consent, we will delete it immediately. Parents may contact us at info@speakzone.com with questions or requests.

Data Security and Retention

We store data securely using password-protected systems and restrict access to approved team members only. While we take reasonable precautions, no method of online transmission is completely secure, and we cannot guarantee absolute protection.

We retain personal information only for as long as necessary to deliver our services or meet legal obligations. Users may request their data to be updated or removed at any time.

Cookies and Tracking

Our website may use cookies to improve your browsing experience by remembering preferences such as language or device type. You can disable cookies in your browser settings if desired.

Legal Disclaimer

Speak Zone is a volunteer-based educational initiative and does not offer formal or certified teaching services. All tutors and learners engage voluntarily, and Speak Zone is not responsible for the content of personal conversations during sessions. We reserve the right to remove users who violate our policies or behave inappropriately.

Use of Speak Zone does not create a formal teacher-student relationship. Participants are expected to communicate respectfully and uphold community standards. Speak Zone is not liable for any damages or misunderstandings resulting from participation.

Your Rights

You have the right to:

• Access, update, or delete your personal data

• Request more information about how your data is used

• Withdraw from the program at any time

To make a request, please email us at info@speakzone.org

Policy Updates

Speak Zone may revise this Privacy Policy from time to time. All changes will be posted on our website or communicated via email. Continued participation implies acceptance of the updated terms.

Contact Us

If you have any questions or concerns about this Privacy Policy or how your data is handled, contact us at info@speakzone.org.

Speak Zone is committed to creating an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming environment for all participants, regardless of their background. We believe that everyone deserves equal access to education, connection, and personal growth.

Our Commitment

Speak Zone does not tolerate discrimination of any kind. We welcome and support learners, volunteers, and team members of all:

• Races, ethnicities, and national origins

• Genders and gender identities

• Sexual orientations

• Religious or spiritual beliefs

• Socioeconomic backgrounds

• Ages

• Physical or mental abilities

• Languages or accents

• Immigration statuses

We aim to create a global community where every person feels valued, safe, and empowered to learn and connect.

What This Means for You

All participants—students, tutors, and staff—are expected to:

• Treat others with respect, kindness, and cultural sensitivity

• Refrain from using offensive, exclusionary, or discriminatory language

• Maintain a supportive and inclusive environment in every session

• Report any form of discrimination, harassment, or bias to the SpeakZone team

Any violations of this policy may result in immediate removal from the program.

How to Report Concerns

If you experience or witness any behavior that goes against this policy, please report it by emailing info@speakzone.org. All reports will be taken seriously and handled confidentially.