CAREBEAR PRESCHOOL | STUDENT HANDBOOK

CAREBEAR PRESCHOOL | STUDENT HANDBOOK
where the educational journey begins
a privately owned school
FULTON RANCH
244 West Chandler Heights Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 802-0058
DOWNTOWN OCOTILLO
2625 West Queen Creek Road
Chandler, AZ 85248
(480) 219-9049
carebearpreschool.com
If you have any questions regarding this handbook or the program,
please feel free to speak with your child’s teacher or the director.
Table of Contents
To accomplish great things, we must not only act,
but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.
Anatole France
Welcome 1
Philosophy, Goals & General Operation 3
Philosophy 3
Goals4
Statement of Services
4
General Operation
4
Security / Access
5
Carebear Practices & Policies
5
Times of Operation
5
School Year/Calendar 6
Enrollment & Procedures
7
Required Sign-up Fees
7
Tuition and Late Payments
7
State Inspection Reports
9
Late Policy 9
Children’s Records
9
Health Data: Medical Form & Immunization Records 9
Attendance10
Checking In and Checking Out Procedures
10
Authorization to Pick Up A Child
10
Parent Involvement, Visitation & Volunteers 10
Parent Involvement 10
Parent-Teacher Communication
12
Parent Conferences
13
Cubbies13
Parent Visitation/Volunteers 13
Homework 15
Table of Contents Cont.
Sick Policy
15
Emergencies 17
Minor Accidents 17
Serious Accidents
17
In the Event of A Fire
17
School Closing
18
Appropriate Clothing Items from Home
19
Toilet Training
19
Naps20
Nutrition Policy
20
Snacks20
Lunch 23
Birthday Celebrations
23
Activities & Programs
23
Before School Program
23
After School Program
24
Extra After School Activities 24
Discipline & Behavior Management Policy
24
Welcome
This HANDBOOK FOR PARENTS provides general information about
Carebear Preschool’s program, administrative procedures, operating
guidelines, health and safety policies, and parental involvement.
Parents will find that most of their questions about Carebear Preschool
are answered in this handbook. For specific situations that may not
be covered, parents are encouraged to seek additional information
from the Director.
2
Carebear Preschool provides a nurturing, creative, and positive
classroom setting in a safe school environment. Our philosophy
is to develop a positive self image in each child through a
healthy and comprehensive balance of self-directed and
teacher-supported activities.
Philosophy, Goals & General Operation
PHILOSOPHY
Carebear Preschool is dedicated to providing innovative, quality education
services that support and contribute to the success and wellbeing of our children
and their families. We are committed to encourage learning through fun,
skill-based activities for children 2 to 5 years of age.
Our well educated teachers structure daily activities designed for each child to
learn at his or her own pace. Our teachers serve as examples to the children, who
learn as much by observing others as they do by direct instruction. The teaching
staff acts as a group of facilitators rather than directors of activities.
It is our daily mission to offer children an enriching experience that enhances
their cognitive, social, emotional, physical, language, and creative development.
It is our goal to give each child a strong, secure foundation on which to begin
his or her educational journey.
4
Education is not filling
a pail but the lighting of a fire.
William Butler Yeats
Goals
THE GOALS ESTABLISHED BY THE SCHOOL ARE:
• To provide a safe, consistent, and enriching environment where
developmentally appropriate activities encourage exploration and
hands-on learning experiences.
• To enhance a sense of dignity and self-worth within each child and his/her family.
• To encourage spontaneity, curiosity, and self-discipline.
• To develop the child’s mental processes by building confidence and self-esteem.
• To enhance patterns and expectations of success for the individual child.
• To provide consistently high-quality care by continually evaluating
school operations.
• To encourage consistent parent visitation, input, and participation.
Security / Access
Our building has a state-of-the-art security system. Each parent will be given
a numeric code to enter the building. Be sure to enter or exit the building through
the main entrance, as you will be required to sign your child both in and out each
day. If someone else is going to pick up your child, you must contact us in
advance. No child will be permitted to leave with an adult whom is not their
parent without prior written permission. Children may not be dropped off
or picked up from an outside entrance.
• To have your child exceed kindergarden requirements (emotionally
and academically).
Carebear Practices & Policies
Statement of Services
TIMES OF OPERATION
GENERAL OPERATION
We are open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Children may be enrolled for a half day or a full day classes.
Carebear Preschool educates children 2 to 5 years of age. We are open from
7:00 am to 6:00 pm Monday through Friday, with many enrollment options
to accommodate parents’ scheduling preferences.
Carebear also offers before school and after school programs. We recognize
that quality care is essential to children’s growth and development.
The school provides a safe, secure, and stimulating environment that always
encourages learning -- whether at play or at work with age appropriate lessons
and activities. We engage our students in all developmental areas including fine
and gross motor development, social skills, moral development, self-help skills,
cognitive skills, and academic skills.
6
SCHOOL YEAR/CALENDAR
Preschool programs run according to the Chandler Unified School District.
The Carebear Preschool Calendar is available on our website at
carebearpreschool.com. Tuition is not adjusted for sick days and
holiday breaks. Payments are still required.
A sample of closed days (and typical months of occurrence) follows:
• New Year’s Day
• Labor Day
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• Columbus Day
• President’s Day
• Fall Break
• Spring Break
• Veteran’s Day
•Memorial Day • Thanksgiving Day
•Independence Day
• Winter Break
Enrollment & Procedures
REQUIRED SIGN-UP FEES
REGISTRATION FEE: Carebear Preschool requires a registration fee and
the first month’s tuition which is due at the time of enrollment. This is
NON-REFUNDABLE. The last month’s tuition is due on the first day of
school and will be applied to your last month’s fee. Disenrollment
requires a 30-day written notice submitted to the Director.
Parents are required to complete registration forms, sign contracts,
and submit an immunization form for enrollment.
FAILURE TO ACCURATELY COMPLETE FORMS OR PAY FEES IN
A TIMELY MANNER MAY RESULT IN CANCELLATION OF THE
ENROLLMENT AGREEMENT.
TUITION AND LATE PAYMENTS
Tuition is due on the first day of every month.* Please see the Director if you
are having financial difficulties in making payments. A one-month notice is
required if you must withdraw your child from the program for any reason.
The school will be closed on holidays and breaks according to the Carebear
Preschool Calendar and fees will not be reduced for these holidays.
*LATE PAYMENT FEE: Carebear reserves the right to charge a late fee of
$20 per day for any payment that is more than three business days late.
STATE INSPECTION REPORTS
State inspection reports are available upon request. This facility is regulated
by the Arizona Department of Health Services, 150 N 18th Avenue,
Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85007, (602) 364-2539.
Carebear Preschool is covered by THOMCO Insurance Enterprises, LLC.
LATE POLICY
If a parent is late, children will be put into our after-school program.
Parents will be responsible for the entire day for fees incurred.
Children’s Records
HEALTH DATA: MEDICAL FORM & IMMUNIZATION RECORDS
It is the state of Arizona’s policy that your child receives immunizations in
order to attend school. Therefore, it is extremely important that your child’s
immunization records be kept up to date. It is the parent’s responsibility to
bring a copy of their child’s immunization records and update them for the
Carebear Preschool’s files.
All records kept on your child are confidential. Your child’s records include
enrollment information, medical information, accident reports, and
assessment/progress reports. You have a right to view your child’s
records anytime.
10
Attendance
Regular attendance is asked of all children who attend Carebear Preschool.
In order to maintain staff/child ratios, it is important to call the school if you
will not be bringing your child to school. We also ask that you call the school
if you are running late. It is for the benefit of your child that he/she is on time
for group activities.
The school should be notified if a child will be absent or late. A message
may be left at the school phone number: Downtown Ocotillo 480.219.9049
or Fulton Ranch 480.802.0058.
Checking in & Checking Out Procedures
Parents are asked to drop off and pick up their children on time in the
classroom. Parents must sign their child in and out every day.
Authorization to Pick Up A Child
Only individuals listed on the emergency card are authorized to pick up
your child. In the event that someone else needs to pick up your child,
written authorization must be provided by the parent and that individual
will be required to show identification to enter the school.
Parent Involvement, Visitation & Volunteers
PARENT INVOLVEMENT
Parent involvement is an ongoing part of our Preschool’s activities. It is
a fundamental concept in early childhood education that parents are a child’s
most important teachers. Our staff works hard to create strong relationships
between the school and home. It is our hope that our school will become
an extension of your family.
12
The most important part of
Parent-Teacher Communication
Parents are the most significant adults in a child’s life. We strive to create
mutual respect between parents and the school staff; a partnership for the
benefit of the child. Our doors are always open to parents for volunteering
or to visit their child during Lunch Bunch.
During the year, the school sponsors events that all parents are encouraged
to participate in, such as afternoon festivals, graduation, luncheons, and parent
teacher conferences. Suggestions and volunteers are always appreciated.
Communication between the parent, child, and teacher is important to ensure
a good working relationship. We encourage daily communication between
parents and teachers.
teaching; to teach what it is to know.
Simone Weil
PARENT CONFERENCES
Parent-teacher conferences are an integral part of the Carebear
Preschool program. Conferences provide important opportunities
for setting goals together. Please plan ahead so that you can be sure
to attend. Parent conferences will be held two times per year. School will
not be in session on parent-teacher conference days. Parents are welcome
to schedule a conference with a teacher any time with advance notice.
CUBBIES
Each child will have a cubby in their classroom with their name labeled on it.
Please make sure you check this daily for school work and parent information.
Regular parent-teacher conferences are a priority at Carebear Preschool. It is our
experience that when parents and teachers are able to work and plan
together for the child’s educational progress, the child benefits greatly.
PARENT VISITATION/VOLUNTEERS
Each teacher can be contacted through email to answer questions or concerns
and parents are always welcome to pre-arrange meetings with teachers.
Newsletters are sent home weekly and are also available on our website.
We also send out monthly calendars.
We love to have parents at our Preschool. Parents play an important role in the
Preschool program. Each parent has a unique set of talents and interests so don’t
be shy about offering your assistance. Your child’s siblings are not allowed in the
classroom when you are volunteering your time. Please check with your child’s
teacher to set up a visit.
14
There are a number of ways you can assist us in providing
your child with the best possible education at preschool.
• Complete assigned homework.
• Read to your child
• Support and encourage your child’s development
• Work with your child at home
• Discuss any problems or worries directly with the teacher
• Visit the Preschool and volunteer
• Offer to share any hobbies, interests, or expertise you may have with the
children (e.g. playing an instrument, pottery, cooking, culture, language, etc.)
• Please remember all children develop at different rates
• Be positive
HOMEWORK
Homework is not mandatory for 2 and 3 year olds but is highly
recommended for the 4-year-old class and pre-kindergarten students.
Please take the time to assist your child in completing his/her homework
and returning it to school on the designated days. A backpack or folder
is recommended to organize your child’s papers.
Sick Policy
Please do not send your child to school if he or she is ill. Children with cold
symptoms should stay home. In addition, please do not send your child to
school with any of the following conditions:
• Temperature of 100 degrees or higher
• Vomiting or severe diarrhea
• A rash of unknown origin
• Discharge of the eyes or ears
• Runny or green nose
• Persistent cough
16
Education is not filling
a pail but the lighting of a fire.
William Butler Yeats
If your child should become ill at school, he or she will be isolated.
An adult staff member will make every effort to keep your child
as comfortable as possible until a parent or authorized person can
come to get the child. Parents or an authorized person must pick up
the child within 30 minutes of notification.
Your child may return to school 24 hours after he or she is symptom-free.
If your child has a communicable disease such as chicken pox, he or she
must remain at home until no longer contagious. Please provide a doctor’s
note stating your child is able to return to school.
• No medication will be administered by staff members during preschool hours.
• It is important that staff members are notified of any allergies.
(THIS INCLUDES FOOD ALLERGIES.)
• Any contagious illnesses reported in the school will be posted.
• We are a nut-free school and no strawberries or strawberry products
are allowed at Carebear Preschool.
Emergencies
In case of an emergency, the staff will follow specific procedures:
MINOR ACCIDENT:
• Soap and water will be used to clean superficial wounds and a bandage
will be applied for protection.
• An injury report will be given to the parent.
SERIOUS ACCIDENT:
• We will call 911 immediately.
• At the time of the accident, the parent will be called.
Emergency contact information must be kept current at all times. Please notify
the Director of any change. Our staff receives training in First Aid and CPR.
We will contact you or your emergency contact person as soon as possible
in the event of an emergency.
IN THE EVENT OF A FIRE...
Arizona law requires that the school holds monthly fire drills. During the
fire drills, the staff will evacuate all the children. Please do not be alarmed
if you hear the drill or happen to be in the school at a time when a fire
drill is taking place.
18
All classes will proceed to their designated area and remain in a single file line
until the ALL CLEAR is sounded. Teachers will take roll of their students as
soon as they have reached their waiting area and again upon returning
to the classroom.
There are maps in each room detailing this procedure.
School Closing
Carebear Preschool will notify parents by 7:00 am if the preschool should have to
close that day due to emergency weather conditions or otherwise. Please remember
to notify us when you change your home or cell phone numbers or address.
Appropriate Clothing Items from Home
Dress your child in clothing that is washable and comfortable. When
children are hard at work and play, they do get dirty. We view this as
a part of healthy growth and development. Some of the “most fun”
and best learning activity materials are sand, water, mud, paint, and
playdough. These activities will be available to your child regularly.
Please bring several changes of clothing for your child, especially during toilet
training. We ask you send your child in clothing that he/she can manage by
his/herself. Toddlers and preschoolers need an extra set of clothes, and
appropriate seasonal clothing for active outdoor play. Appropriate
shoes for running, climbing, and playing are needed.
If your child has a “special” blanket or comfort item that he/she likes to use
at rest time or bedtime, please feel free to bring it. It is imperative that you label
all your child’s clothing and personal items. The school cannot be responsible
for unlabeled items.
Toys belonging to your child may be damaged or misplaced at the school, so
we ask that your child leave these items at home. We do encourage children
to share nature, books, and special interest items with us. Children may choose
to bring a special interest item for show and tell; however, guns and weapons
of any sort are not appropriate and will not be allowed at the school.
TOILET TRAINING
When you feel your child is ready to potty train, we will be happy to assist
you. Your child may be ready to potty train if he or she is:
• Staying dry for several hours
• Able to communicate the need to use the toilet
• Appears to be aware of wet or soiled diapers
• Is in a cooperative mood
20
There is no definite age when a child is ready for toilet training and many
children alternate between periods of cooperative and negative behavior.
It is our experience that toilet training is best started sometime between
24 and 36 months of age.
Both the parent and staff should use the same procedures for training so that they
do not confuse the child. If there is too much anxiety or stress, it may be better
for the child to wait and try again at a later time. During toilet training, it is very
important to dress your child in uncomplicated clothing that the child can easily
manage on his/her own and to provide extra clothing.
We would like to reiterate that toilet training in a group affects individual
children differently and can actually accelerate or slow your child’s training
while at the school. Please provide all diapers, pull-up training pants,
and wipes each day they attend.
Naps
Two-year old children are required to take naps. Students ages 3 and 4 are not
required to take naps, nor do they need to remain on their mats. Instead, children
may enjoy quiet time by reading books, puzzles, or listening to soft music. Parents
will fill out a form to outline their desires regarding napping and quiet time for
their child. Parents provide their own sheets for nap mats and take them home
on Fridays to wash.
Nutrition Policy
SNACKS
A daily snack will be provided to all full-time students. Half-day students
will be assigned a snack day once a month. Children are always welcome
to bring their own healthy snack. Snacks are served family style and
adhere to the Arizona State SNACK Empower Pack standards.
23
LUNCH
Please send your child to school with a healthy lunch and be sure to
label it with your child’s name. Lunch Bunch occurs daily for half-day
students whose parents have enrolled them. Parents are always
welcome to join their child for lunch.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Birthdays can play an important role in the life of a child. We welcome you
to celebrate your child’s birthday. Parents are welcome to send store-bought
items to celebrate your child’s birthday. Please discuss your plans with
your child’s teacher well in advance.
Activities & Programs
The Carebear Preschool program includes daily math, science, phonics,
language arts, handwriting, reading, circle time, arts and crafts, computers,
free play, outdoor play, and snack time.
We proudly use Promethean Interactive Whiteboards — one of the most
innovative educational technologies available to engage our students with vivid
images, video, and audio to enhance the educational experience we provide.
BEFORE SCHOOL
Morning students may be dropped off at preschool as early as 7:00 am for an
hour filled with fun activities like story time, music, movement and more.
24
AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM
The Carebear After-School Program is a dynamic, enriching experience for
children in preschool through school age. Activities include arts and crafts,
computers, and other exciting options. A nutritious snack will be provided.
Carebear teachers are on site to offer assistance with homework and are
available for special tutoring. The program is offered from 3:30 to 6:00 pm
Monday through Friday. Children attending elementary schools are
welcome to participate in the After-School Program. A staff member
will walk children from Fulton Ranch Elementary to Carebear Preschool.
Before and after-school participation requires registration and
a credit card to be kept on file for auto pay.
EXTRA AFTER-SCHOOL ACTIVITIES
• Pottery
• Gymnastics
• Dance
• Music
• Advanced Reading
• Tutoring
• Lunch Bunch
• Spanish
• Karate
• Cooking
• Advanced Math
• Art
Discipline & Behavior Management Policy
Discipline will be handled in a positive manner in order to help children
develop a positive self-esteem, self-control, and respect for others. Redirection
and verbal communication will be the first method used in order to encourage
the child to change the behavior. If this is not successful, timeouts will be given
for a period of one minute for each year of the child’s age (e.g. 3 minutes for
a 3-year-old child). Parents will be notified in cases of extreme disciplinary
problems and teachers will work with parents to revolve the behavior issues.
Learning and teaching should not stand
on opposite banks and just watch the river
flow by; instead, they should embark
together on a journey down the river.
Loris Malaguzzi