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11500 Quail Roost Dr.Miami, Florida 33157(786) 573-3017(786) 573-3018 FaxC11MD0327

10869 Caribbean Blvd.Cutler Bay, Florida 33189(786) 573-2123(786) 573-2501 FaxC11MD0172

10825 SW 184th StreetMiami, Florida 33157(305) 253-3613(305) 232-2556 FaxC11MD1388

PARENT HANDBOOK

Dear Parents:

Welcome to Kids Learning Center

How wonderful it is to see children who genuinely care about others, feel proud of themselves, are persistent when they learn new skills, celebrate their successes, and receive love and support from adults. We, at Kids Learning Center, set the stage for young children to love to learn by providing the resources and environment that makes learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience. We give each child the individual time and attention, love and understanding that will enable achievement to the greatest extent of his or her capabilities.

We would like to thank you for selecting Kids Learning Center for your child’s school. I assure you there is no better place --after home-- to leave your child, than under the care of our teachers and employees who have dedicated their lives and professional skills to the instruction and care of children.

Please make sure you have read all the information and understand the school policies and regulation. If you have any further questions, please feel free to give us a call.

Welcome to our family,

The Kids Learning Center Staff

Train up a child in the way he should go; and when he is old, he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6)

INDEXMissionPhilosophyStaffCalendar: School YearCalendar: Summer CampContractRegistration FeeMaterial FeeRegistration RequirementsRe-EnrollmentGoals: PreschoolGoals: Kindergarten / ElementaryProgram: PreschoolProgram: Kindergarten / ElementaryProgram: Summer CampProgram: After SchoolCurriculumComprehensive Reading Plan (CRP)Dress CodeUniformsFamily InterviewAges and Stages QuestionnaireDaily Report: Two Years OldProgress Report: PreschoolProgress Report: Kindergarten / ElementaryDaily Developmental Assessment PreschoolIndividualized Goals PreschoolDevelopmental Check List PreschoolEvaluations: PreschoolEvaluations: Kindergarten / ElementaryGradingConductGrade Point AverageProgress Report (Interim)Promotion StandardsAssessments: After SchoolAssessments: Summer CampAssessments: Pre/Mid/PostInclusion Policy

Behavior ProblemsReferral ProcessHomework: PreschoolHomework: Kindergarten / ElementaryHomework: Make UpWeekly PacketsTutoringAttendance: Kindergarten / ElementaryAttendance: Excused Absences/TardiesAttendance: Unexcused Absences/TardiesAttendance: ELC/VPKArrival ProceduresDismissal ProceduresLate Pick UpAbsentTardySing In/Out: Electronic Finger Print RegisterSign In/Out: ELC/VPKPick Up ArrangementsDrop Off ProcedurePick Up ProcedureIntoxicated / Impaired Person Picking UpChild Abuse and Neglect Reporting PolicyCode of ConductDiscipline Policy: PreschoolDiscipline Policy: Kindergarten / ElementaryDiscipline Policy: Chronically DisruptiveDiscipline Policy: Serious OffencesDetentionDemeritsStudents Rights and ResponsibilitiesBoundaries / Leaving CampusAdjustment to SchoolCommunicationConfidential InformationGripingVisiting the SchoolDisrespecting the StaffVolunteer

Parents and Teachers Involvement GroupClassroom InvolvementWorkshop for ParentsTelephone ParentsTelephone StudentsGrievances and ProblemsHealth ExaminationMedical Emergency PlanAccident ReportIncident ReportMedication PolicyImmunizationFlu PolicySick Students: Excludable and Reportable ConditionsCommunicable DiseaseInsect Repellent PolicySunscreen PolicyHalls/Hall PassesCell PhoneInternet Use PolicyParking AreasBabysittingTransportation of ChildrenWater Play (Preschool)BitingInspection PolicyWeaponsElectronic DevicesPetsMeals ProgramCafeteria RulesMeals TimeMatsSheetsActivitiesField TripsPartiesHolidaysTeacher Planning DaysEmergency EvacuationFire Drill ProcedureSchool PicturesLost and FoundRecycle

KIDS LEARNING CENTERPARENT POLICY MANUAL

MISSIONThe mission of Kids Learning Center (KLC) is to provide high quality education by preparing our students to become responsible, educated citizens who have the skills and understanding to participate and work productively in a diverse, multicultural, globally oriented environment through a sound educational curriculum with emphasis on science, technology, language art and math. Our curriculum is based on the idea that we must impart to all children the content knowledge and academic skills that will provide them with the necessary intellectual wealth to succeed in mainstream culture. We challenge each child of Kids Learning Center to achieve their full potential through our rigorous curriculum, values and individualized attention.

PHILOSOPHYKids Learning Center is committed to the education of young children and the achievement of their optimal developmental level. Our program views itself as a support system for the child and his/her family. To this end, staff is carefully selected, and programs are individually planned to meet the unique needs of each child. Using The Creative Curriculum, the program provides a multitude of play opportunities through which each child is guided towards his/her greatest potential. We believe strongly that the child learns best through direct experiences with his/her world and through interaction with other children and adults. It provides leadership, education, services and advocacy that will assist in revolutionizing a global humanitarian movement of environmental education and awareness through partnerships with families, teachers, schools and our global communities. KLC has adopted the philosophy of the EDGE which is to teach GLOBAL RESPONSIBILITY. We will encourage our students to think outside of the box, to protect their planet and to take care of those less fortunate.

Kids Learning Center has a strong commitment to accessibility and diversity. Its open door policy embraces all who desire to provide a better quality of care, preparedness and education for their children. Kids Learning Center works to provide affordable, first-class care giving and education by providing a broad range of integrated programs and services and innovative learning approaches. We are committed to taking a leadership role in child care services, higher learning, community services and promoting cultural diversity.

OPEN DOOR POLICYA prime factor in the success of our school is the importance we place on communication between home and school. We have an open door policy and encourage the parents to call or visit the school at any time. Visitors are required to check in at the school’s secretary’s desk before going directly to the classrooms. Parents are reminded that teachers can not engage in lengthy conversations during school hours but will gladly call them or make an appointment. Information about classroom activities and school wide events will be sent home with your child’s homework packet (VPK/elementary), Parents’ Board, calendar and newsletter. The following information can also be found on our parent board located at the front of the school: school menu, WIC information, discipline policy, emergency procedures, school philosophy, safety recalls, emergency exit plan, application to Florida Kidcare, parent trainings, parent events, service learning projects and fundraisers, child abuse and neglect information, calendar and newsletters.

Each child is assigned a cubby. When picking up your child, please pick up their belongings, school work, and any letters, calendars, newsletters, flyers, etc., from their cubby. The child care cubby will be a very important method of communication between the parent and the school. Any school work and/or communication letter are not picked up by the following Monday are disposed of by the teacher to make room for new material.

4KLCSD Parent Handbook 4 Rev. 09/2018

Parent/Teacher conferences are done 3 times per school year. A telephone conference shortly after school begins will focus on the child’s adjustment to school. In addition, every month a parent is provided with the monthly progress of the child. A conference may be requested at any time deemed necessary by the parents/guardians, teachers or administrators.

The parents are welcome to aid the teachers in the classroom as volunteers. They can offer help with multi-cultural activities, nutrition activities, and help during special events, projects, etc. Parents are also welcome to chaperone field trips.

STAFFOur staff is carefully selected for their educational background, intellectual knowledge, and experience with children, teaching ability, understanding of child development, and sensitivity to the needs of the children and ability to provide a warm, caring environment. Our entire staff participates in ongoing programs of in-service education and professional growth to enhance their knowledge related to the education of young children and the support of families, as well as learning about current research-based strategies and approaches in Early Childhood Education.

Through a strong team effort, Kids Learning Center is committed to providing a quality, successful and positive experience for you and your child.

AGES OF CARE Kids Learning Center provides care for children from the ages of three months up to twelve years old.

IDENTIFYING OUR STAFFKids Learning Center staff is required to wear uniforms that reflect the school logo. This includes teachers, office personnel, and support staff.

SCHOOL YEAR CALENDARThe school calendar correlates to the Miami-Dade Public School Calendar (August-June) and is enhanced with Kids Learning Center activities.SUMMER CAMP CALENDAR The summer camp calendar is provided in our office by the Summer Camp Program (June-August).

CONTRACT / POLICY REGARDING PAYMENTS AND REFUNDSThe Parent Application, signed before enrollment, does not bind either the school or the parents to any specific period of enrollment. Either parents or school may terminate, without cause, the enrollment of a student. Each family is expected to maintain a contract with Kids Learning Center concerning their child’s participation in the program. The contract relates to the variety of possible attendance slots that are being offered at the time of enrollment (Refer to the Tuition Fee Schedule). Kids Learning Center provides care for a limited number of children; in order to maintain a child’s program space, the weekly tuition must be kept current regardless of vacations or illness.

Tuition is paid weekly always in advance. Late payments will be assessed a $20.00 fee. A $35.00 charge will be added to your account for any returned checks. After one week delinquent, the child will be suspended from class until the account is paid. No credit will be allocated towards the suspension days. These days will be recorded as “Unexcused” in your child’s record.

When withdrawing your child from the center, a minimum of 2 weeks notice prior to the last day of attendance must be given in writing to the office.

REGISTRATION AND MATERIALS FEES


The registration and materials fees are collected at time of enrollment. These funds are applied immediately towards the expenses of adding your child to the school. Neither of these fees is reimbursable.

REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTSKids Learning Center admits students of any race, color, sex, national and ethnic origin. Privileges, programs, and general activities and policies are made available to all students at Kids Learning Center. Admission is open to all provided the school has openings. The following items should be included by the first day of class:

1. Enrollment Application2. Emergency Contact Card3. DFCF Forms #3040 and 680/681 obtained from your child’s doctor. This form certifies that your

child is in good physical health and has received the immunizations required by the State of Florida.

4. Food Program Application 5. General Agreements and Policies6. Tuition and Fee Schedule 7. Health and Development Questionnaire 8. Copy of insurance card9. Copy of birth certificate 10. Copy of parent/guardian identification11. Each preschool child needs a complete labeled change of clothes that is suitable for the weather

in a labeled zip-lock bag and if needed several pairs of training pants for “newly trained” children. Please replace or replenish supply as needed. Their personal beginnings will be kept in their individual cubby.

12. Please do not send bottles or pacifiers to school unless the child is an infant.

ANNUAL RE-ENROLLMENTPre-registration for previously enrolled students begins in March. Completion of the registration forms and payment of the registration fee will ensure a spot for the student during the next school year. New students will be enrolled beginning in April.

WITHDRAWAL In order to withdraw your child from the center, a written withdrawal notice of must be turned in to the centers administration two weeks prior to the last day of attendance. If not tuition payments will continue to be charged and collected.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAM GOALSPersonality, self-image and motivation to learn are all firmly established in the child’s first five years of life. Listed below are some specific goals and objectives for children in our Preschool that will enhance personality, self-image and motivation to learn. Teachers will apply their creativity and knowledge of child development to help children attain these goals and objectives:

Socio-Emotional Development:1. To enhance positive self-esteem2. To develop a positive attitude towards life3. To demonstrate cooperative, pro-social behavior

Cognitive Development:6KLCSD Parent Handbook 6 Rev. 09/2018

1. To acquire learning and problem solving skills2. To expand logical thinking skills3. To learn concepts and gather information leading to a better understanding of the world around

us4. To exhibit skills in make-believe play5. To increase language and verbal communication skills6. To develop beginning reading skills7. To acquire beginning writing skills

Physical Development:1. To develop gross motor skills2. To refine fine motor skills3. To use all senses in learning4. To gain independence and be comfortable with one’s body

KINDERGARTEN AND ELEMENTARY PROGRAM GOALSThe school’s academic program is geared towards grounding students in the fundamental skills and concepts essential for future academic success. In addition to the academic fundamentals, the program includes enrichment opportunities that expose students to the fine arts, technology, physical education, environmental research and the Spanish language.

The school objectives include: To teach each student so he/she may experience challenge, success, and academic excellence. To encourage each student to develop self-responsibility. To stimulate each student to think, reason, and problem solve. To prepare students for living, with emphasis on development of independent living skills. To encourage active participation in community, with opportunity to develop leadership skills and

good citizenship qualities. To release students from competitive rating against others so they can become free to reveal

strengths and weaknesses without loss of self-esteem.

PRESCHOOL PROGRAMPreschoolers will be grouped by age and ability into small groups and with their specific teacher. Each group has a classroom teacher. During the week, these groups rotate for a period of two hours with other specialized subject preschool teachers. It is this rotation that makes our curriculum unique and of great quality. All of the students are exposed to remarkable experiences.

INFANT/TODDLER/PRESCHOOL PROGRAM DAILY ACTIVITIESOur center offers a complete program with a curriculum and daily activities. Each classroom has their daily activities schedule with specific times. You can find these posted in each classroom and on the school’s parent board. Copies can be given upon request. The schedules of meals and snacks can be found in the teacher’s emergency binder and posted on the center’s parent board. Copies can also be provided upon request.


PARENT BULLETIN BOARDThe following information can be found on our parent board located at the front of the school: school menu, school calendar, school newsletter, community newsletter, WIC information, discipline policy, emergency procedures, school philosophy, safety recalls, emergency exit plan, application to Florida KidCare and other health care services, parent trainings, parent events, service learning projects and fundraisers, child abuse and neglect information, agencies that offer assistance with basic and emergency family needs, information about financial assistance, calendar and newsletters.

KINDERGARTEN / ELEMENTARY SCHOOL PROGRAMKLC recognizes the importance of providing a curriculum that encourages teachers and students to meet the challenges of modern society. Our Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) identifies the most essential objectives needed to demonstrate proficiency in identified competencies. It aligns curriculum with instruction, develops different styles for assessing student learning, and targets high-performing learning outcomes. KLC educational program is planned to accommodate individual interests, abilities, and rates of learning while fostering a climate of teamwork and mutual support.

At the kindergarten and elementary level, students work in groups of all sizes and composition, engaged in activity-based subjects such as art, physical education, computer, music, and science, with the purpose of promoting a diversity of knowledge. Since our curriculum promotes the specialization of the teachers, the students may rotate with different professors throughout the day.

OUT OF SCHOOL PROGRAMThe Out of School Program (OOS Program) is inclusive of After School, Teacher Planning Days and Summer Camp. Students have the opportunity to engage in fun and educational activities which develop the concepts taught during the regular school program. In addition to literacy, math, and science support the students receive group tutoring as needed. In addition, all students can participate in music, art, environmental research, organized sports, computer, character education and service learning experiences. Fun and educational field trips complement the experience of the OOS Program.

KLCSD’s afterschool program is partially funded by grants through The Children’s Trust and 21 st

Century Community Learning Partners. Students and Families who are part of either grant must adhere to certain criteria’s in order to qualify and continue participating in the program. Families must qualify for the program through the Free and Reduced Meal Application from the Florida Department of Health and a slot must be available in order to enroll your child. Students must attend a minimum of 3 ½ hours daily/ 4 days per week during the part-time after school days and no less than 7 hours daily for full-time days, with a maximum of 3 absences per month. Families must attend no less than 6 Family Literacy/Parent Teacher Committee Meetings/ or Events every school year. As part of the requirements parents will have to sign the “After School Program Contract” and adhere to the policies stated to ensure their child’s enrollment in the program for the year. Parents will work in partnership with KLCSD to ensure that the goals set for their child in the program are being met.

Students that arrive to school before their regular program starts will report to the Before School Program immediately when they arrive to school in the morning and/or after their class is dismissed. Students attending the program are supervised until parents arrive in the afternoon.

Students who are not picked up on time will be sent to the After School Care Program and parents will be charged for the time students spend in the program.

CURRICULUM-PRESCHOOL

Infants, Toddlers and Twos


The care and experience your child receives the first years of life have a powerful influence on how they view the world, how they relate to others, and their ability to succeed as learners. Kids Learning Center uses a comprehensive, developmentally appropriate curriculum, The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers & Twos, which includes goals and objectives in all areas of development: social/emotional, physical, cognitive, and language. Our teachers provide a nurturing, consistent, and loving environment for children to make new discoveries, explore their environment and begin to see themselves as competent learners. Families receive a daily report/log of their child’s feeding, sleeping, diapering and learning activities. Teachers also perform assessments three times a year using developmental checklists.

Preschool and Pre-Kindergarten

Based on the latest research and best ideas about how children develop and learn, The Creative Curriculum® for Preschool encompasses the core of what we believe at Kids Learning Center, that children learn best by doing. Learning isn't just repeating what someone else says; it requires active thinking and experimenting to find out how things work and to learn firsthand about the world we live in. In their early years, children explore the world around them by using all their senses (touching, tasting, listening, smelling, and looking). In using real materials found around the home or in our natural environment our students try out their ideas, learn about sizes, shapes, and colors and they notice relationships between things. In time, they learn to use one object to stand for another. This is the beginning of symbolic thinking. The most important goal of our early childhood curriculum is to help children become enthusiastic learners. This means encouraging children to be active and creative explorers who are not afraid to try out their ideas and to think their own thoughts. Children are exposed to a variety of learning environments such as, Blocks, Language, Dramatic, Fluids and our Outdoor Environmental Center. Our goal is to help children become independent, self-confident, inquisitive learners teaching them how to learn, not just in preschool, but all through their lives. We're giving them good habits and attitudes, particularly a positive sense of themselves, which will make a difference throughout their lives. Families receive a weekly log of their child’s learning activities. All children's work is maintained in portfolios including pictures of their art products, marker/crayon drawings, easel paintings, block structures, emergent writing samples, beading and stringing, and cutting experiences. Anecdotal records, screenings, informal/formal assessments, and teacher observations are also part of this developmentally appropriate and individualized program.

Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK)Our state funded VPK program is a three hour block of concentrated instruction with smaller class size and lower rates. Inquire at the office about eligibility requirement and times offered.

CURRICULUM IMPLEMENTATIONKids Learning Center implements The Creative Curriculum®. This was published in 1997 by Teaching Strategies, Inc., to help parents and teachers teach children at an early age. The book focuses on research that places emphasis on the importance of the first three years of the child's life so that it becomes a full adult. It shows a number of points that help parents and educators to approach learning in preschool and infant ages, including five core components of the curriculum that can lead to success in teaching.

IT PROVIDES A MODEL TO IMITATEExposure to relationships and positive experiences stimulate the student's ability to learn. Children begin to learn the language and interaction through their daily experiences. They repeat the words and tones that they hear adults use and also copy their behaviors. Therefore, instructors should control their own conduct to give appropriate examples to those who are in charge.9KLCSD Parent Handbook 9 Rev. 09/2018

IT STIMULATES INTERACTIONThe creative curriculum also exposes the role of the teacher in the child's life. He serves as a role model but also as a moderator for student interaction. While it is important for a teacher to maintain a nutritious and responsive relationship with their students, they are also responsible for helping develop relationships among themselves. Teachers can encourage students to help each other or play together so that they are better prepared when they switch to different kinds of preschool and kindergarten.

COMMUNICATION WITH FAMILIESThe creative curriculum emphasizes that teacher’s work with parents and families for the benefit of the child. Communication with families gives instructors an understanding of the child's personal life. Teachers communicate the achievements and weaknesses of the child with the parents. In this way, parents continue encouraging students and supporting them outside the classroom.

CURRICULUM-ELEMENTARYAll programs of study and textbooks are carefully selected to provide quality learning based on appropriate developmental principles. The sequence of activities is designed to prepare students for future academic achievement. All students receive instruction in the following areas throughout their stay at Kids Learning Center from preschool through fifth grade.

PhonicsReadingWritingMathematicsScience

Social Studies Geography History Economics Civic Duty

Physical EducationSocial SkillsCharacter EducationComputerArt

MusicEnvironmental Research Field TripsService Learning

The itinerary extends for those students enrolled in the after school program.

CORE AREASKLC is aligned with the Miami-Dade County Public Schools’ Curriculum Course Codes. The program will be enriched with extracurricular activities that support the core areas of the curriculum. The school’s curriculum will be performance-based in attaining Next Generation Sunshine State Standards emphasizing accomplishments rather than failure.

The KLC curriculum is inter-disciplinary/integrated, organized around themes, with many hands-on activities and in-depth study of content. All levels focus on the skills of communicating well in oral and written forms and using mathematical and science concepts to solve problems. Into the curriculum are integrated chorus, drama, art, foreign language, computer education, health and fitness. A strong citizenship program composed of character education and service learning emphasizes perseverance, responsibility, and other life skills.

Reading/Language Arts At KLC, students acquire language skills through frequent opportunities for oral and written expression, and by reading and listening to good literature. These language experiences extend beyond the traditional reading/language arts scheduled periods and permeate throughout all curricular areas. Reading and writing are inextricably linked to one another. Reading is an interactive


process involving the reader and the content in the text. Writing is a process that includes pre-writing, drafting, sharing, revising, editing, and publishing. Assessments and instruction are continually interwoven. Various strategies are used to provide continuous feedback.

Special Areas Art, music, and physical education are regular, required instructional periods in elementary school. Students are required to be prepared for class participation. For physical education, all students will be expected to wear the KLC uniform and shoes that stay secure and cover the feet to provide adequate protection.

Exemption from Physical EducationShould illness and/or injury make physical activity unsafe; parents must send a note to the physical education teacher explaining the situation. If a student needs to be excused from physical education on a regular basis, a physician note is required.

Increase Learning OpportunitiesIn addition to an innovative curriculum, KLC features several programs to help students and their parents have the most convenient educational program available in Miami Dade County. Some of the services we will offer to families and students include:

Reading, math, science, and social studies assistance for struggling students Accelerated learning opportunities After school tutoring Conferences at least two times per year Special education resource room Music, art, and other extracurricular activities for all students Speech, social work, occupational and physical therapy services, and any other assistance a

student may require ensuring success in school

Innovative Measuring ToolEach student is required to maintain a portfolio in all curricular areas. Portfolios are useful as a support to the new instructional approaches that emphasize the student's role in constructing understanding and the teacher's role in promoting understanding. For example, in writing instruction, portfolios can function to illustrate the range of assignments, goals, and audiences for which a student produced written material. In addition, portfolios can be a record of the activities undertaken over time in the development of written products. They can also be used to support cooperative teaming by offering an opportunity for students to share and comment on each other's work. For example, a videotape of students speaking Spanish in the classroom can be used to evoke a critical evaluation of each other's conversational skills at various points during the school year.

Portfolios are valued as an assessment tool because, as representations of classroom-based performance, they can be fully integrated into the curriculum. And unlike separate tests, they supplement rather than take time away from instruction. Moreover, KLC believes that portfolio assessments complement the various subjects’ tests for measuring academic skills and informing instructional decisions.

COMPREHENSIVE READING PLAN


Elementary students are required to read at least five books or their equivalent during each nine-week grading period, including in-class independent reading and at-home reading. Students must also read for 30 minutes at home as part of their daily homework assignment. The length of the books and the complexity of the content may be taken into account when satisfying this requirement.

PRESCHOOL EVALUATION / PARENT REPORTChildren enrolled in the Pre-school program will be assessed in the following manner:

Family Interview – This questionnaire provides the teacher and other school staff an insight to the child’s needs, interests, cultural background, language, strengths, areas of development, behavior techniques, family goals and expectations; as well as special needs and medical background. This interview is available in English and Spanish to meet the needs of our diverse population.

Ages & Stages Questionnaire – This developmental screener is conducted once a year in conjunction with the family and assesses a child’s Communication, Gross Motor, Fine Motor, Problem Solving and Personal-Social. Its purpose is to make the family aware of their child’s strengths and weaknesses in these areas and their age-appropriate overall development. This evaluation is available in English, Spanish and Creole to meet the needs of diverse populations.

Two Years Old Daily Report -A daily reporting update on the child’s academic and individual developmental goals will be provided in the afternoon to the person picking up the child for all Two-Year-Olds.

Preschool Weekly Report – On a weekly basis parents receive a behavior and academic update of their student. If needed, teachers will request a meeting to discuss with the parents any concerns that need to be addressed. Parents are provided with the teacher’s email to request additional information or a face to face conference.

Preschool Daily Anecdotes – This observation tool is conducted by the classroom teacher and is utilized to assess the child’s spoken language skills, work habits, self-reliance skills, academic skills (letters, numbers & phonemic awareness) and attendance. The purpose of this tool is to determine where the child is on the curriculum scale and how the teacher can move him to the next developmental level. To this end, the teacher plans and documents on the form the lesson(s) that will scaffold the child’s learning.

Developmental Check List – This curriculum-based developmental assessment is conducted daily by the classroom teacher. On a quarterly basis, (November, February, May), the teacher provides the parents with the report; they sign it and receive a copy. The purpose of this assessment is to provide both the family and teacher with the child’s overall developmental and academic progress.

Interim Progress Report Card - Students will be issued Progress Report at the mid-point of each nine-week grading period. These reports advise parents of student progress and inform them if their child has been placed in a basic skills remedial program. PROGRESS REPORT CARDS MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO THE CLASSROOM TEACHER.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.9

Kindergarten/Elementary Report Cards - Report cards are issued four times during the school year. Each reporting period is nine weeks long. The report card provides information on a student’s academic progress, conduct, and effort as assessed by the teacher(s). REPORT CARDS MUST BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO THE CLASSROOM TEACHER. A record of attendance will also be shown, as well as the number of hours that parents have volunteered at the school. A total number of hours must be volunteered by the parent in order for the student to be promoted to


the next grade level. At the end of the academic year the progress of the student will be assessed by the teacher. If the student has made satisfactory progress he will be recommended for promotion to the next higher grade. A grade of D is not a passing grade. Any student who has earned a D in any one subject will be required to attend summer school in order to be promoted to the next grade level. Kids Learning Center reserves the right to determine if the student is functioning at grade level.

Other : The school will also make available to the parents screeners and assessments conducted by local state agencies and therapeutic groups that provide evaluations in hearing, speech, vision, language, fluency, voice and behavior. These services will be optional and available either free of charge or at a small fee as determined by the agency or group. All of the above assessments will be utilized to determine a child’s developmental and academic growth. The results of the assessments will be kept in the student’s files until the end of the school year, and then they will be secured by the administration for a period of 3 years. These results will only be accessible to teachers, administrative staff, family and therapists as authorized by the family.

KINDERGARTEN AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL EVALUATION / GRADING Academic Grades Academic grades reflect the student’s academic progress based on the competencies/benchmarks for the grade level/course in which the student is enrolled. The grade is not based upon student’s effort and/or conduct.

K-5GRADES

NUMERICALVALUE

VERBAL INTERPRETATION

GRADEPOINT VALUE

A 90-100% Outstanding progress 4B 80-89% Above average progress 3C 70-79% Average progress 2D 60-69% Lowest acceptable progress 1F 0-59% Failure 0I 0 Incomplete 0

Conduct Conduct grades are used to communicate to both students and their parents/guardians the teacher’s evaluation of a student’s behavior and citizenship development. These grades are independent of academic and effort grades.

Grade Point Average When calculating the grade for a semester or an annual course, the following grade point averages are to be used:

A = 3.50 and above B = 2.50 – 3.49 C = 1.50 – 2.49 D = 1.00 – 1.49


Principal’s Honor Roll

Regular Honor Roll

Perfect Attendance

Citizenship Honor Roll

Academic Grades All A’s All A’s and B’s n/aEffort All 1 All 1 and 2 n/a All 1 and 2

Conduct Grades All A’s All A’s and B’s n/a All AsAttendance n/a n/a Less than 3 n/a


Excused Absences/Tardies

PROMOTION STANDARDS It is the principal's responsibility to determine the promotion of a student based upon information from the faculty. The decision will be based upon the factors outlined below.

1. Academic Skill : Students must demonstrate the ability to apply on-grade-level academic skills in language arts (reading, literature, listening, critical observation, speaking, writing and language), mathematics, science, and social studies as indicated by the Student Portfolio and other assessments. The Portfolio Review at the end of each semester is required for all students.

2. Classroom Performance : Student participation in such things as projects, performance, exhibition, discussion, and group work is required of all students.

3. Minimum Competency : Students must meet levels of minimum competency in reading, writing, mathematics, and science. The statewide Standardized Achievement Test (SAT) and other assessments are used to determine competency.

4. Teacher Recommendation : Classroom teachers will exercise their professional judgment in recommending for promotion or retention based on the above criteria and their daily observations.

All students who fail to achieve these levels will have an Academic Improvement Plan (AIP), which specifies the provision of remediation for individually diagnosed deficiencies. If reading is a deficient area, the plan must also identify the specific areas of remediation, the desired levels of performance, and the strategies and services that will be used to meet the performance levels. Students who do not meet the competency levels or exemptions established by the 2009 Florida Statutes 1008.25(5), (6), (7) will be retained.

AFTER SCHOOL AND SUMMER CAMP ASSESSMENTSStudents will receive pre, mid and post-test in academic areas as described in the table below to determine progress. Students entering program after program initiation will be administered their pre-test within two-weeks and their mid-test and/or post-test within program specified timeframe with at least a month in between each administration.

STUDENT ENROLLMENT PRE-TEST MID-TEST POST-TESTAfter School Care Aug Dec MaySummer Camp June N/A August

Academic, Physical Health, Personal Enrichment and Parent outcomes will be collected through the quantitative and qualitative data using research-based assessment tools listed in the Student Performance Accountability Form, which demonstrate validity and reliability. The results of the evaluations will be used to refine, improve and strengthen the program as follows:


When a participant is not meeting objectives within the specified criteria, the following interventions will be conducted:

Reading, Math & Science – Students will be provided with group tutoring, buddy mentoring and use of remedial software.

Physical Fitness – Meeting with teacher to re-evaluate goals and/or finding a more effective fitness approach.

Character Education & Dropout Prevention – Referrals to community agencies and/or medical and psychological resources


Service Learning – Re-evaluation of project or commitment, buddy approach/mentoring

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICIES (INCLUDING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS) Children with special needs will be admitted to the center as long as we can help them through professional agencies and institutions. KLC admits students of any race, color sex and religion, national and ethnic origin. Privileges, programs and general activities and policies are made available to all students at KLC. Admission is open to all; provided the school has openings and the center can meet their needs.

INCLUSION POLICY / BEHAVIOR PROBLEMSKids Learning Center believes that school should be a place where all children have the opportunity to be successful. It is a time for children to learn new and exciting things, to make friendships and to learn to be part of a group, while retaining their unique individuality. In believing that every child has his or her own “special needs”, it is the policy of Kids Learning Center to be a school that includes all children.

When a child is having difficulty in the classroom, parents, teachers and school administrators will work together to try to determine what is preventing the child from having an optimum experience. Then, together, we will try to come up with an individual action plan to meet the child’s needs. Sometimes this will include asking the parents to have their child evaluated by a child development specialist or other professional. Other steps include but are not limited to:

1. A release of pertinent information to better understand the needs of the child;2. Consultation with the child specialist and/or child’s personal physician or therapist;3. Requirement for the child specialist to observe the child in the school setting and/or provide

classroom strategies for the child’s teacher;4. Restructuring the preschool child’s school day to maximize his/her potential for success.

If it is determined that a child’s needs cannot be met even with reasonable efforts to provide additional support, the school will offer the parents assistance in transitioning the child to a better suited environment. We reserve the right to ask the parents to withdraw their child from Kids Learning Center if no such accommodations can be made. This is only recommended after very careful observation of the child and ongoing meeting with the parents and after all reasonable options have been attempted. One or more of the following conditions must be present for a parent to be asked to withdraw their child from the program:

1. The child’s behavior is harmful or upsetting to himself or to other children in the program2. Kids Learning Center is unable to meet the individual needs of the child3. The child’s behavior is disruptive to the point of preventing the other children from learning.


REFERRAL PROCESS – PRESCHOOL AND ELEMENTARYKids Learning Center believes in working with families to ensure that all children reach their academic and developmental potential. As a result, our staff is very diligent in utilizing assessments to determine both a child’s strengths and their needed areas of development. We believe in the power of early intervention and understand that in development, there are windows of opportunity that must be met in order for a child to progress. With this in mind, we have set guidelines in place for instances where assessments yield red flags. These red flags will be based on each individual assessment’s standards. When two or more evaluations display a concern, the following guidelines will be put into place:15KLCSD Parent Handbook 15 Rev. 09/2018

The teacher informs the administrative staff about the concern. The administrative staff sets up a team meeting to be attended by family, teacher and

administration. During this meeting, the areas of concern are discussed and an initial written plan of action is

designed including school interventions, family interventions and any possible referrals. This plan will be based on the team’s input and focusing on the child’s best outcome. The school will also provide the family with at home strategies and a referral or a listing of community agencies (referral resources) that can provide free assessments, including Early Steps (0-3 yrs old) and FDLRS (3-5 yrs old.) A date is set up for a follow-up meeting as needed.

During the follow-up meeting, the plan of action is revisited and additional interventions are set up. If the child has been determined to need therapeutic interventions, the follow-up plan of action will include the school’s level of support in this area. (i.e. therapies at school, schedule adjustments, etc.)

A release of information form is completed by the family naming who is authorized to discuss the child’s medical and academic needs and interventions. Information will be kept in the student’s personal file at the main office, inside a manila envelope marked “CONFIDENTIAL.” Only persons authorized by the family or other entities as determined by law may access the file.

It will be the team’s (family, school, therapists, medical practitioners, etc) shared responsibility to keep each other abreast of the child’s progress, adjustments to interventions and additional support needed.

PRESCHOOL/KINDERGARTEN/ELEMENTARY SCHOOL HOMEWORK POLICYHomework is an important part of each student’s education. It offers the opportunity for children to learn responsibility, as they learn to accept accountability for their mistakes as well as successes. Children will also benefit from homework because it will give them experience in persevering, managing their time, showing initiative, building self-confidence, and developing resourcefulness. Homework will be checked for completeness, accuracy, and neatness.

Homework will be appropriate for the student’s grade level, and enhance/reinforce assignments completed at school. Assignments may provide practice on a concept already taught or allow for real-life application of skills.

KLC requires that ALL students read for a minimum of 30 minutes per day every day of the week. Parents, older siblings, and/or relatives may read aloud to the children. The recommended daily (5 days per week) homework average time for all subjects:

Pre K – 1: 30 minutes 2 – 5: 45 minutes


It is important for teachers and parents to work together to help students develop positive attitudes about completing homework assignments. The ultimate beneficiary of good homework policies is the student. The input and involvement of the parents is welcome and greatly appreciated. Parents who help children succeed:

Demonstrate interest in the student’s work Provide a place/time for quiet study, without interference of TV, games, etc… Assist with the practice of spelling words, vocabulary, and number combinations


Encourage home reading and listen to the student read Review homework assignments for neatness and completeness Refrain from doing the work for the student Discuss with the teacher concerns related to homework

HOMEWORK / MAKE-UP ASSIGNMENTS Teachers will provide students with make-up assignments once the absence has been excused; however, it is the responsibility of the student to request the assignments from the teacher(s). Students who miss work (quizzes, tests, homework, etc.) due to absences are given the same number of days absent plus one day to make up the work they missed without penalty. After the allotted time, 10% of the final grade is deducted per day up to a maximum reduction of 50% of the grade if the work is turned in late. If a test has been announced previously, students who miss school on the day a test is given will be required to take the test the day they return to school to avoid a late penalty (at the discretion of the teacher). Students who attend any part of the day are accountable for all work assigned that day. It is the parent’s (or students’) responsibility to get the assignments missed upon arriving or before departing school the day the student returns. Homework and assignments must be completed before the grading period ends in order to receive credit for completion.

WEEKLY PACKETS SENT HOMEOne method of communicating a student’s progress to his parents is by means of the weekly packet or folder sent home on the teacher’s specified day of the week. Your preschooler’s teacher will send home a folder or packet containing school projects worked in class the week before. Kindergarten and elementary students will take home tests, quizzes, and other graded items at the end of the week. Parents who would like a conversation or conference with the teacher should schedule an appointment for an in person meeting or a telephone conference through the school office or the communication log. Please remember teachers are not accessible during class time.

TUTORINGGroup tutoring is inclusive for students enrolled in the after school program. If your child needs extra help in a specific area, group tutoring, you may request it for an additional fee. Please contact the After School Coordinator at the school office to make arrangements.

DRESS CODE - SCHOOL UNIFORMS - GENERAL APPEARANCEStudents are expected to come to school with proper attention having been given to personal cleanliness, grooming, and neatness of dress. Students whose personal attire or grooming distracts the attention of other students or teachers from their school work shall be required to make the necessary alterations to such attire or grooming before entering the classroom or be sent home by the principal to be properly prepared for school. Students who fail to meet the minimum acceptable standards of cleanliness and neatness as determined by the principal and as specified in this rule shall be subject to appropriate disciplinary measures.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.14Uniforms are mandatory (for students ages three and older) on school days, unless otherwise specified through a school event or other activity. Uniforms can be purchased at the school. The dress code policy will be adhered to on the first day of school. The uniform policy is:

Approved Uniforms:

All KLC uniforms, sweaters and jackets are sold in the front office for your convenience.Girls KLC Skort or Slacks/shorts: khaki -PANTS MUST FIT APPROPRIATELY (NO dresses or jumpers are

permitted) KLC uniform Polo with school logo KLC sweater or jacket with school logo The shoes (or “tennis shoes”) should be 100% black with regular shoe laces or Velcro


Socks should be white or hunter green Undergarments must not show Small stud earrings (No hoop earrings are permitted) Hair should be properly groomed

Boys KLC Shorts with logo or Slacks khaki -PANTS MUST FIT APPROPRIATELY KLC uniform Polo with school logo Belts must be worn with pants (Kindergarten/Elementary/Middle School only) KLC sweater or jacket with school logo The shoes (or “tennis shoes”) should be 100% black with regular shoe laces or Velcro. Socks should be white or hunter green Undergarments must not show No earrings/temporary tattoos No faux haux/designs/or hair dye or long hair are permitted

Summer Camp- All Students Students must wear the KLC when present at the school. Shorts or pants of the student’s choice may we worn. The KLC t-shirt must be worn during field trips.

General Provisions for Dress Code Shorts will be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee. Shirts will be tucked in and buttoned fully excluding the very top button. No “heelies” (sneakers with wheels) are allowed on school grounds. Belts must be worn if the attire is equipped with belt loops. Pajama pants are not allowed. Sweat suits are not allowed. Athletic sandals, flip flops, crocs, shoes with heal higher than ½ inch, and slippers are not allowed. No leggings or jeans. Boys are not allowed to have pierced body parts, wear earrings, or have temporary/permanent

tattoos. Boys must have a neat and well-groomed hair style. No hair coloring that can be considered an unnatural hair color. Boy’s hair must be cut short not touching the ears. No hair styles that disrupt the learning environment (Mohawks and spikes, etc.). No hats or scarves may be worn.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.15Consequences for not wearing the school uniform: when a waiver is not in place School will call home for parents to bring in a uniform Student will be provided with a new uniform by the school office. The family account will be

charged for the cost of the uniform Student will serve detention (after notifying parents)

The administration reserves the right to determine the final standards on all fashion and/or appearance trends.

KINDERGARTEN AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ATTENDANCE POLICIESThere is probably no factor more important to successful school progress than regular school attendance. Students who are absent excessively from the instructional program will fall behind in academic achievement. Excessive school absenteeism proceeds failing grades, loss in interest, and


may result in a student’s withdrawal from school. Under Florida law parents are responsible for their child’s school attendance. In consideration of our unique curriculum design and to facilitate each student’s optimum success, regular and punctual attendance is a vital part of our educational program and should be considered a top priority by students and parents.

Teachers will keep an attendance record and turn in an attendance report to the office every day. The Office Manager will keep an attendance record for the entire school.

Parents should notify the school if a student will be absent or late. Excessive absences or tardies are those that negatively impact the student’s educational progress. Excessive absences or tardies will result in a phone call from the teacher to the parent to discuss the problem.

Excused School and Class Absences and Tardies 1. Student illness: Students missing 5 or more consecutive days of school due to illness or injury

are required to provide a written statement from a health care provider. The written statement must include all days the student has been absent from school. If a student is continually sick and repeatedly absent from school due to a specific medical condition, he or she must be under the supervision of a health care provider in order to receive excused absences from school.

2. Medical appointment: If a student is absent from school due to a medical appointment, a written statement from a health care provider indicating the date and time of the appointment, must be submitted to the principal.

3. Death in family 4. Observance of a religious holiday or service when it is mandated for all members of a faith that

such a holiday or service is observed. 5. School-sponsored event or educational enrichment activity that is not a school-sponsored event,

as determined and approved by the principal or principal’s designee: The student must receive advance written permission from the principal or the principal’s designee. Examples of special events include: public functions, conferences, and regional, state and national competitions.

6. Subpoena by law enforcement agency or mandatory court appearance. 7. Outdoor suspensions 8. Other individual student absences beyond the control of the parent/guardian or student, as

determined and approved by the principal or the principal's designee. The principal shall require documentation related to the condition.


Unexcused School Absence Any absence that does not fall into one of the above excused absence categories is to be considered unexcused. Any student who has been absent from school will be marked unexcused until he/she submits required documentation as specified above. Failure to provide required documentation within three school days upon the return to school will result in an unexcused absence. Unexcused absences include:

1. Absences due to vacations, personal services, local non-school event, program or sporting activity 2. Absences due to older students providing day care services for siblings 3. Absences due to illness of others 4. Absences due to non-compliance with immunization requirements (unless lawfully exempted)

ELC/VPK/OUT OF SCHOOL PROGRAM’S ATTENDANCE POLICIES


This policy applies to students enrolled in government programs that receive funds towards their tuition payments. These programs restrict the students from missing more than 3 unexcused absences per month. If absences result in withholding of funds towards tuition payments, it is the responsibility of the parent to assume all disallowed payments. Parents will be billed on a monthly basis.

ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL PROCEDURES

Operating hours may vary by center

PROGRAM TIMES ARRIVAL DISMISSAL

Infant & Toddlers 09:00 AM 06:30 PMPreschool and Full Time VPK 08:30 AM 06:30 PMVPK Part Time Morning 08:30 AM 02:00 PMKindergarten 08:00 AM 03:00 PMElementary (1-5 grade) 08:00 AM 03:00 PMAfter School Care 02:30 PM 06:30 PMDrop-In Care 06:30 AM 06:30 PM

NAPPING ROUTINEInfant (Flexible times)Toddlers (Flexible times) 12:00 PM 02:00 PMPreschool 12:30 PM 02:30 PMVPK Full Time 12:30 PM 02:30 PM

*Children up to one year of age must be in an individual crib, portacrib, or playpen with sides. Crib sides must be raised and secured while an infant is in the crib and bar spacing may not exceed two and three-eighths inches. Cribs must meet the construction regulations as outlined in Title 16, Parts 1508 & 1509, Code of Federal Regulations, January 2009, which is incorporated by reference. A copy may be obtained from the department’s website, www.myflorida.com/childcare. No double or multi-deck cribs, cots or beds may be used. (d) When napping or sleeping, young infants who are not capable of rolling over on their own shall be positioned on their back and on a firm surface to reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) unless an alternate position is authorized in writing by a physician. The documentation shall be maintained in the child’s record.


Arrival Kids Learning Center is open for business Monday through Friday between 6:30 a.m. and 6:30

p.m. Free breakfast provided for all students starting at 7:45 a.m. Before-school supervision is provided beginning at 6:30 a.m. for those students who are having

breakfast. Students will be supervised until the teacher picks them up. Preschool students ages 3 months to 4 years non-VPK must be in school by 9:00 am. VPK students must be in school no later than 8:30am due to regulations set by the ELC/OEL (Early

Learning Coalition and the OEL Office of Early Learning) Elementary parents are not permitted inside the school between 9:30 am and 3:00 pm unless

they are cleared by the office.

Late Arrival20KLCSD Parent Handbook 20 Rev. 09/2018

Preschool students must be in their classrooms by 8:30 a.m. Preschool students cannot be dropped off between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Kindergarten and elementary students must be in their classrooms by 8:00 a.m. Kindergarten, Elementary, and Middle School Students who are tardy must obtain a Tardy Pass

from the main office. They will NOT be allowed in the classroom without a tardy pass. After 3 tardies per quarter there will be a $5.00 late arrival fee charged to the account

for every day your child is late. The student will not be able to make up the work they have missed and their grades will be

affected. The only way a student will be able to make up work is with a doctor’s note. (Must be provided within 48 hours of absence)

Elementary and Middle School students who are tardy will need to drop off at the school office. Kindergarten/Elementary/Middle School: After the third tardy within the grading period, the

student will be required to attend a half hour detention and will earn 1 demerit. Three or more excused tardies or early dismissals in a semester will prevent a student from

receiving the Perfect Attendance Award. Late arrivals may be accrued and count towards unexcused absences. Since tardiness is often not the fault of the student, the help of parents is solicited in seeing that

the student arrives on time. For lateness to be considered excused, students must have a note of explanation from their parents the day they are late. Traffic congestion is not an acceptable reason for chronic tardiness.

Dismissal VPK children not enrolled in the Full Day Program must be picked up at their dismissal time, 2:00

p.m., to avoid the late pick up fee of $5.00 for the first half hour and $5.00 every hour thereafter. Kindergarten and elementary students not enrolled in the After School Care must be picked by

3:00 p.m. to avoid the late pick up fee of $5.00 for every hour. Students not picked up promptly at dismissal time will be signed-in to the After School Program.

Only authorized adults can pick up students. Students whose parents do not comply with this policy will be dismissed from the program.

Kids Learning Center closes at 6:30 pm, and we do not have arrangements for children past 6:30pm. An automatic fee of $5.00 plus a $1.00 for every minute will be incurred for children who are picked up after 6:45 pm. We appreciate your cooperation.

Early Dismissal The early release of students causes disruption to the academic performance of all students and

may create safety and security concerns. Only individuals listed on the emergency contact and release card will be allowed to pick up students during school hours. Identification will be required.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.18 If a student is absent for more than 50% of the day, he/she will be considered absent. Kindergarten and Elementary students not enrolled in the after school program will be picked up

at the school lobby. Please wait for your student to walk to the lobby. Students will not be released between 2:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. (according to his/her regular

dismissal time); parents will need to wait until dismissal time.

Late Pick Up If you are going to be late to remove your child from the school, you must make arrangements for

someone to pick him up on time. If by 6:30 pm the student has not been picked-up, or we are not able to reach you by telephone,

or the person picking up the student is not in our records nor has he/she been authorized for pick up, Kids Learning Center may contact the Police Department and the Department for Child Neglect and Abuse. Please remember the school closes for business at 6:30 p.m...


Consequences of Being Absent / TardyAll students are expected to be in school on time each day school is in session and remain until the dismissal bell unless a valid reason exists for leaving early. Tardiness is defined as any arrival at school after the tardy bell has sounded without an approved excuse. Likewise, students who leave school before the end of the school day have their learning interrupted. Unless the reason for leaving or late arrival is covered under Excused “School and Class Absences and Tardies“, students who are chronically tardy or leave early without an acceptable excuse more than five (5) times in a calendar month or ten (10) times in a 90 calendar day period will be subjected to action as described below.

1. Students accumulating five or more absences in a trimester will be subject to withholding of a passing final grade pending a review of the absences by the administration.

2. Students will be counted in attendance only if they are actually present or are engaged in a school-approved educational activity which constitutes a part of the instructional program.

3. Students, who accumulate more than 15 absences, excused or otherwise, in a school year will not be promoted unless mastery is demonstrated on a comprehensive examination in the major subjects.

4. All elementary parents are responsible for calling the office before 10:00 am on the day their child is absent, stating the reason for the absence. Without this notification, the absence may be considered unexcused.

TEACHER/STUDENT RATIO

AGE CHILD:STAFF RATIO MAXIMUM GROUP SIZEBirth-12 mos. 3/4:1 6/813-24 mos. 3/4:1 6/825-30 mos. 4/5:1 8/1031-35 mos. 5:1 10Three-year-olds 7/8/9/10:1 14/16/18/20Four-year-olds 8/9/10:1 16/18/20Five-year-olds 8/9/10:1 16/18/20

Qualified staff with primary responsibility for children should be available to provide frequent personal contact; meaningful learning activities; supervision; and to offer immediate care as needed. The ratio of staff to children will vary depending on the age of the children, the type of program activity, the inclusion of children with special needs. Staff-child ratios are maintained in relation to size of group (see chart


above). When no infants and toddlers are included, the staff-child ratio and group size requirements shall be based on the age of the majority of the children in the group. When infants and toddlers are included, ratios and group size for infants and toddlers must be maintained. Staff-child ratios are maintained through provision of substitutes when regular staff members are absent. Substitutes for infants and toddlers are familiar with the children and oriented to children's schedules and individual differences in a systematic way before assignment.

SIGN IN/OUT REQUIREMENT / DISSMISSALFor the protection of your child, it is essential that the “IN and Out” form found at the front office is signed daily and the times of drop off and pick up are written daily. It is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to ensure this form is kept up to date. Please inform all of the relatives authorized to drop off or pick up your child to ensure he is registered “in” and released “out” in the afternoon. It is the responsibility of the person dropping off and picking up the child to sign them in and sign them out daily. KLCSD III (Eureka) students, and/or parents must sign in and out of the program daily using the electronic biometrics


system located in the front office and/ or playground entrance. Kids Learning Center has the right to withdraw the child from the center if the sign in and out form is not completed daily.

If your child is registered in any of the government programs, ELC and VPK, it is your responsibility to ensure “In and Out” signatures to guarantee payment of tuition. Remember to sign your full name and times of drop off and pick up and time. It is the parent’s responsibility to guarantee payment of tuition from ELC and VPK. In the event that tuition is disallowed because the sign in and out form is not completed daily, this portion will be charged to the parent’s account.

CHANGE IN PICK-UP ARRANGEMENTS If the person retiring your child from the center is not in the Authorization Card, the parent or

authorized guardian MUST notify the office IN WRITING at least one hour before dismissal. We will not release a child to anyone unless their name appears on the child’s records or proper notice has been given to the school. In the event that a parent is not authorized to pick up a child, Kids Learning Center must have a court restraining order or injunction on file. ALL INDIVIDUALS NOT RECOGNIZED WILL BE ASKED TO SHOW PROPER IDENTIFICATION.

PICK UP & DROP OFF PROCEDUREKLC staff is required to be familiarized with the arrival and dismissal procedures to ensure compliance. Children being brought into our school must be signed in and out by their parents or guardians. Children, being brought and leaving our school, are to be taken to the classroom door and picked up at the assigned classroom door. A child must always be accompanied by an adult when entering or leaving our building. We ask parents or guardians not to walk in the classroom; all of the classrooms have glass windows through which you may see your child without interrupting the daily routine.

INTOXICATED/IMPAIRED PERSON PICKING UP A CHILDIt is KLC policy that no child is allowed to leave the care of the center in the custody of a person who is in a physical condition which may prevent him from assuring the child's welfare.

1) Any parent or other person who is authorized to pick up a child enrolled in the school and comes to the center or bus intoxicated or in an impaired physical condition which may prevent him from assuring the child's welfare will not be allowed to pick up a child.

2) In the event that a parent or other authorized person arrives at the center or bus while intoxicated or in an impaired condition, staff will use their best judgment in determining if he is in a condition which may prevent him from assuring the child's welfare.


3) Should it be determined that the person is in a condition that prevents him from assuring the child's welfare, staff will: a) Make alternative arrangements for child pick-up, including, attempting to contact another

person on the Authorized Child Pick-up List.b) Notify the following individual(s) in writing:

(1) The parent(s) of the child (if they are not the ones who are intoxicated or impaired)(2) The intoxicated/impaired person and spouse;(3) Parents of other children the person has been authorized to pick-up;(4) Appropriate center staff.

4) For any parent or other authorized person who arrives at the center or bus in an intoxicated or physically impaired condition to pick up an enrolled child, the following will occur:a) One written warningb) Removal from the list of individuals authorized to pick up a child after the second occurrence.


c) The Center Director, or if he is not present, the person in charge, is authorized to carry out the directives of this policy.

SMOKING AND TOBACCO USE Smoking and tobacco use is not allowed on the premises including playground and parking lot. Children model our behavior, and smoking and using tobacco is dangerous to everyone’s health.

DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE POLICY AND WORK RULEKids Learning Center is committed to protecting the safety, health, and well-being of all employees, children, families and other individuals in our workplace. We recognize that alcohol abuse and drug use pose a significant threat to our goals. The policy of KLC is to employ a work force free from use of illegal drugs and abuse of alcohol, either on or off the job. Any employee determined to be in violation of this policy is subject to disciplinary action, which may include termination, even for the first offence. Any parent who may be found to be under the influence of any drug will need to leave the premises immediately and will be reported to the proper authorities. This policy is implemented pursuant to the drug-free workplace program requirements under Florida Statute 440.102 and Administrative rule 59A-24 of the State of Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT REPORTING POLICYAll observations or suspicions of child abuse or neglect will be immediately reported to the Child Protective Services Hotline, 1-800-962-2873, no matter where the abuse might have occurred.

All staff involved in the reported incident will follow the direction of Child Protective Services regarding completion of written reports. If the parent or legal guardian of the child is suspected of abuse, staff will follow the guidance of Child Protective Services regarding notification of the child’s parent or legal guardian. Reporters of suspected child abuse will not be discharged for making a report; unless it is proven that a false report was knowingly made. Signs of suspected child abuse or neglect will be recorded on the Student Injury Report form, which will be kept in a confidential file located in the school office.

If a staff member is suspected of abuse, parents or legal guardians of suspected abused children will be notified by Director immediately after contact with Child Protective Services is made. Parents or legal

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.21guardians of other children in the program will be contacted by the Director within 24 hours of contact with Child Protective Services, so that they may share any concerns they have. Staff who is accused of child abuse may be suspended or given leave (with/without) pay, pending investigation of the accusation. Such staff may also be removed from the classroom and given a job that does not require interaction with children. However, no accusation or affirmation of guilt will be made until the Child Protective Services investigation is complete. Caregivers found guilty of child abuse will be immediately dismissed.

CODE OF CONDUCTProcess for Dealing with Put-Downs, Threats, Gossip, Exclusion, VictimizationRespect for every person is the guiding principal of KLC. There is no tolerance for any mistreatment of any member of our school community. Recognized forms of mistreatment include, but are not limited to, exclusion or abuse based on age, gender, race, class, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, differing abilities, or physical appearance. Everyone deserves to be treated with complete respect at all times. We want our school to be a place where everyone is valued and safe. We celebrate our diversity as a school community and learn as much as we can about each other. Learning conflict resolution skills and how to interrupt and halt the mistreatment of others is an important part of our curriculum. Peer mediators are trained on every cluster level to handle


disputes and misunderstandings. Any put-down, threat, gossip, exclusion, or victimization will be interrupted. These incidents may be dealt with by a variety of methods depending on the situation. Repeated offenses will be dealt with by a behavior contract.

PRESCHOOL DISCIPLINE GUIDELINESKids Learning Center is neither permissive nor behaviorally structured. We encourage children to control their world through language and the opportunity to make choices. Discipline is used as a tool to teach children to make responsible choices, and accepting the consequences of such choices. Discipline takes several forms:

1. Logical Rules : Such as keeping our hands to ourselves, and taking care of the learning environment. These are discussed with the children, as well as why such rules are needed.

2. Positive Reinforcement : We reinforce the behaviors we encourage. Catch them being “good!”3. Redirection : Often interesting a child in another activity can eliminate a potential difficulty.

We might ask a child to help us or send them to a different area to work in a project.4. Positive Reminder : Telling the child what we want them to do, rather than using “no” or

“don’t”.5. Renewal Time : Occasionally a child needs to be removed from the situation for a brief time

allowing them to calm down and be able to rejoin the group.6. Conflict Resolution : A peace-making method with a focus on enhancing the children’s social-

emotional well-being and interactions.

Any on-going situations will be discussed with the parents to ensure a cooperative approach. Please feel free to discuss any questions or concerns. One or more of the following conditions must be present for a parent to be asked to withdraw their child from the program:

1. The child’s behavior is harmful or upsetting to himself or to other children in the program.2. Kids Learning Center is unable to meet the individual needs of the child.3. The child’s behavior is disruptive to the point of preventing the other children from learning.


DISCIPLINE PROCEDURES

First Incident: Staff talks to the child making him or her aware how the behavior is not appropriate.

Second Incident: Separation of children may become necessary in the case or two or more children having extreme difficulty playing together without conflict. The teacher then needs to assign appropriate play areas for the children, with the message that they may try playing together again later on if they do well on their own thru the use of re-direction. Re-direction is an opportunity for a child who is out of control and at risk of harming himself or others, to calm down.

Third Incident: If it becomes necessary, a conference is arranged with the parents to discuss the child’s behavior.

Fourth Incident: After the parent conference if the behavior persists and/or is out of control where the child is at risk of harming himself or others, then the child will be referred to a professional.


No physical punishment shall be used nor shall discipline be associated with food, drink, rest or toileting.

KINDERGARTEN AND ELEMENTARY SCHOOL DETENTION AND DEMERITSDetention is conducted after school during the week. A half an hour detention is earned as a result of a demerit. Once a child accumulates three demerits, detention time will increase to 45 minutes. The family account will also be charged $5.00 after the third detention served. A demerit may be earned by a student for each, but not limited to the following incidents:

Misconduct inside or outside of the classroom. Each tardiness/early dismissal after 3 unexcused incidents per semester Unexcused absence or tardiness (See Attendance Policy) Violation of the school’s uniform code Chewing gum while in the building, playground, or parking lot Words or actions that show disrespect for others Disobeying classroom/school rules Misconduct in the cafeteria Obscene behaviors Running while in the classroom, cafeteria, or hallways Falsifying notes Fighting Stealing from the school or classmates Defacing school property Incomplete homework assignments Not being prepared for class

Depending on the severity of the behavior displayed, any of the above infractions may result in a student being suspended from school.

Process for Dealing with Chronically Disruptive StudentsStep One: Every effort will be made by the classroom teacher(s) to engage all students in productive, interesting learning activities. The students and teachers in each class will cooperatively develop the classroom guidelines for establishing and maintaining a productive learning environment. These

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.23guidelines will include specific consequences for disruptive behaviors that interfere with the learning environment. Some of these consequences may be:

1. Redirection and quiet time2. Designated seat in the classroom3. Loss of classroom privileges4. Writing a letter home to parents detailing the misbehavior and a plan for how to correct it 5. Isolated lunch

Step Two: Students engaged in serious disruptions are sometimes sent to the office to see the principal or assistant principal. Any teacher sending a student to the office for disruption must send an incident report which clearly outlines the situation and the recommended consequences. An administrator will meet with the student and determine the appropriate consequences and will file the incident report in the student’s folder. These consequences usually include a call to parents explaining the incident, the student writing a letter of apology, and counseling. Suspension or work hours are also options in severe cases.


Step Three: If the classroom consequences have been tried and the student insists on continued disruption, the teacher(s) will meet with the principal to design a Behavior Contract for the student based on the behaviors that need to be targeted.

The following procedures will be followed:1. The teacher(s) and principal will determine which target behaviors should go on the contract. 2. A parent conference will be held with the student, teacher(s) and principal attending. At the

conference, the unacceptable behaviors will be discussed along with the contract procedures.3. The student will carry a contract each day and accumulate points from her/his teachers. The

student is expected to get at least 75% of the possible points each day. If s/he loses the contract, s/he may come to the office and get a new one for the rest of the week but s/he will have lost all the points already recorded on the contract. No points will be given retroactively.

4. The student will meet with the principal at the end of each day to discuss how s/he is doing. The contract will go home to be signed by the parent(s). Parent(s) are expected to withhold a specified privilege if the student has not made at least 75% of the possible points.

5. A student will remain on a contract until s/he has completed 21 consecutive days of 75% or better.

6. Students still remaining on a contract after 21 days will have another parent conference to determine why the behavior is not improving. Following the parent conference, the student will be on an exit contract.

Note: The behavior contract for primary students may be very different, i.e., smiley faces instead of points, etc.

Step Four: The student will be on an Exit Contract for 21 days followed by a Parent Conference to evaluate how the student is doing. If things are going well, the student goes off contract. If the student still has not met the conditions in the contract, a recommendation will be made to the principal that the student be withdrawn from school. At that point, a hearing will be scheduled with the principal, student, parent, teacher(s), and involved staff to go over the history of the behavior (all previous steps will be documented) and to discuss the student’s options after s/he is withdrawn from KLC.

Repeat Contract—if a student gets off contract after the first time and needs to be put back on a contract later in the year; s/he goes directly to an Exit Contract for 21 days with a Parent Conference at the end. The same procedures are followed as outlined above.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.24Process for Dealing with Serious OffensesOne of our most important goals as a school community is to create a learning environment where everyone is safe. At KLC there is zero tolerance for the following:

1. Violence2. Tobacco, alcohol, and illegal drugs3. Weapons4. Sexual harassment

ViolenceKLC has a philosophy of non-violence. This means that any act of violence is never appropriate on our campus for any reason. All students will be educated about the philosophy of non-violence and will learn about heroes and heroines who used non-violent strategies, such as Gandhi and Martin Luther King, Jr. Students will learn conflict resolution strategies to use in their daily life.


We ask that all parents understand and support the school’s non-violence philosophy. Telling a child that “if someone hits you, you should hit them back” is not being supportive of the philosophy of this school. It confuses children about the kind of environment that we are trying to create here at KLC. If a student intentionally harms a member of our school community using violent actions/words, s/he will be immediately removed from the classroom or playground environment. An objective staff member will counsel the student and other pertinent members of the school community may be included in the counseling session. Once the incident has been discussed fully, an appropriate course of action, which may include immediate suspension and/or further counseling, will be decided upon.

Because of the bigger size and physical power of our older students (grades 3-5), they are held to a higher standard of non-violence. The following process will be followed when there is an act of violence:

First Offense:1. Teacher writes an Incident Report which goes into the student’s record2. Student goes to the Office; Parents are called3. Student goes home for the rest of the day plus one more day

Second Offense: 1. Incident Report filed2. Parents called3. Student goes home for the rest of day plus two more days

Third Offense: 1. Incident Report filed2. Parents called3. Parent Conference to discuss other educational options besides KLC

TobaccoYoung people have been the target of intense ad campaigns by the tobacco companies. We will counter this propaganda with scientific information about the effects of smoking. We also stand strongly against the use of tobacco by anyone, adults and young people alike, on our school campus.


Alcohol/DrugsAny student who uses or possesses alcohol or drugs on campus or at a school-sponsored event may expect serious consequences. A student who, at anytime, breaks the law regarding alcohol or drugs will be suspended from classes and all extra-curricular participation for a designated period of time and forfeiture of elected or appointed positions of leadership.

The consequences for violation of the drug and alcohol rules includes suspension for up to ten days and an assessment by school-approved drug and alcohol professionals. Depending on the circumstances, the consequences could be more stringent, including expulsion from the school.

WeaponsWeapons are absolutely prohibited on campus and will result in expulsion from the school. Weapons are identified as a firearm, knife, razor blade, or any other weapons, or such object which is utilized as, or intended to function as a weapon. (The use of toy guns is prohibited on our school campus.) Pocket knives must not be brought to school. Sexual Harassment


Sexual harassment is considered a serious offense at our school. Every student has the right to work and learn in an environment that is free from sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is defined as any behavior or touch sexual in nature that is unwelcome by the recipient, and/or interferes with someone's ability to work or learn. Engaging in sexual harassment will result in serious consequences. If an investigation shows that the accused student is guilty, s/he will be suspended for one to five days for a first offense and three to ten days for a second offense depending on the circumstances of the case. Expulsion from school can result from repeated offenses or particularly serious incidents. (See list below)

The character education instructor will conduct annual presentations in every classroom on how to avoid, discourage and report sexual harassment. In addition, KLC administrators, teachers and personnel will participate in annual training that will include recognizing signs of sexual harassment/abuse, counseling of students, reporting procedures and execution of due process concerning sexual harassment complaints.

Students may choose any staff member with whom to confide or make a complaint. Upon receipt of a complaint or observance of sexual harassment during the performance of their duties, staff will immediately report the complaint to the KLC Principal. This includes any occurrences of sexual harassment on school grounds, on the school bus, at a school bus stop, while participating in a school sponsored function or activity.

KLC Principal will complete the following steps:

1. The Principal will meet with the complaining student and the accused student separately. S/he will investigate all allegations, interview any witnesses including students, parents and/or staff and notify the principal of the details of the investigation immediately.

2. The principal will carry out appropriate disciplinary action based on the nature of the infraction, number of incidents, the age of the student, and any other past disciplinary infractions. The proper authorities (Department of Children and Families, Sheriff’s Department, etc.) will be notified if the nature of the incident legally justifies this action. The parents of all the involved students will be called.

3. The Principal will write an incident report to be placed in the accused student’s school file. This report will be made available to the parents of the students who were involved in the incident.


Infractions leading to suspension include: Indecent exposure Creating a hostile environment In appropriate comments of a sexual nature Unwelcome sexual advances Touching private areas outside of victim's clothing Infractions leading to expulsion include:

o Rape or attempted rapeo Pattern of Sexual Harassment o Touching o Inside victim's clothing o Aggressive in nature o Penetration/stroking of genitalia

PRESCHOOL ADJUSTMENT TO SCHOOL


Please walk your child to the classroom and sign him/her in and out daily. If your child seems shy or clings to you, wait until the teacher greets you and tries to interest your child in an activity. Do not worry if your child prefers to sit and watch. This is a form of learning and will lead to participation. Avoid lengthy conversations with the teacher at this time as she needs to focus her attention on the children. Following are some ways to help morning go smoothly again:

1. Reassure your child that you’ll return each day, and do a run through of what happens during drop-off and pickup to reinforce that Mommy/Daddy leaves, but also comes back.

2. Establish a goodbye ritual. It can be as simple as a hug, a kiss and an “I love you.” Whatever the routine, do it religiously. Predictability helps children feel secure.

3. Put on a happy face. Kids can sense their parents’ anxiety. If your child knows that you are worried, he/she will be nervous, too.

4. Make a picture book with the members of your family or the home-school-home process, which the child may keep in their cubby or with them as a reminder that their family will be back soon and that school is only a part of the daily routine.

COMMUNICATIONA prime factor in the success of our school is the importance we place on communication between home and school. Information about classroom activities and school wide events will be sent home with your child’s homework packet (VPK/elementary), Parents’ Board, calendar and newsletter. Each child will be assigned a cubby. Please encourage your child to put their blanket and change of clothes into their cubby. When picking up your child, please pick up their belongs, school work, and any school communications (letters, calendars, newsletters, flyers, etc.) from their cubby. The child care cubby will be a very important method of communication between you and the school. A parent board is located beside the main office. Please be informed that all school work and/or communication letters not picked up by the following Monday will be disposed of.

A phone conference shortly after school begins will focus on your child’s adjustment to school. A conference may be requested at any time deemed necessary by either the parents/guardians, teachers or administrators. Parent/Teacher conferences are held three times during the school year. Parents should make a note of these dates as well as dates for exams, report cards, and progress reports (elementary). All these are on the school calendar available in the school office.


Teacher communication should be conducted via e-mail, phone calls, and requested parent conferences.

TRANSITION OF CHILDREN FROM ONE CLASSROOM TO ANOTHERWhen a child has to be transferred from one classroom to another due to their age or for other reasons the following steps will take place:

The “Classroom Transfer Form” will be completed by the administration and taken with the child to the new classroom.

The student will be exposed for short periods of time to the new classroom so they may adjust to their new environment.

Over the course of 2 weeks the time the child spends in the new class will become longer and longer until the child is comfortable

TRANSITION OF CHILDREN TO ELEMENTARYThe entrance into Kindergarten marks a very important time in a child’s life. This is when a child starts their formal education and that transition period is very important to the children and their families. This can be an exciting as well as scary experience for both. During this time in their life children are changing developmentally. Preschool and Kindergarten classrooms differ greatly in 30KLCSD Parent Handbook 30 Rev. 09/2018

structure, schedule, curricular focus etc. Daily classroom activities in a preschool classroom are much more flexible than in elementary setting.

In order to have a successful transition from preschool to kindergarten children should have acquired certain skills such as being able to follow directions, listening, actively participating, being attentive to lessons that are being taught, task completion, self regulation and being independent. During the VPK year of the student the child will be assessed using various methods to ensure that the child is progressing at an appropriate pace the following assessments will be used:

VPK quarterly assessments (AP1, AP2 and AP3)This assessment tracks the following areas: Print Knowledge, Phonological Awareness, Mathematics and Oral Language and Vocabulary Measurements

The Creative Curriculum Gold Assessments are done quarterlyThis assessment tracks the following areas: Social/Emotional Development, Physical Development, Cognitive Development, and Language Development

Ages and Stages QuestionnaireThis assessment tracks the following areas: Communication, Gross Motor Skills, Fine Motor, Problem Solving Skills, Personal Social Skills, and Overall family questions

Around the month of March/April the parents of the VPK students will be given the opportunity to choose if they would like to leave their child in KLC to continue into the Elementary program. Parents and students are invited to attend Open House and Orientation and visit the Elementary school. During the course of the year the families of the students are also invited to participate in different events that occur at the Elementary. Families are also given information on the neighboring schools in case they would like to place their child in a different location.


CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION Parents, guardians and students are protected by The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Florida Statutes from individuals’ access to information in students’ educational records, and provide the right to challenge the accuracy of these records. These laws provide that without the prior consent of the parent, guardian or eligible student, a student's records may not be released, except in accordance with the provisions listed in the above-cited laws. The laws provide certain exceptions to the prior consent requirement to the release of student records, which include, but are not limited to, school officials with a legitimate educational interest and lawfully issued subpoenas and court orders.

GRIPING - CONFIDENTIALITYAt Kids Learning Center griping is not tolerated. Griping is defined as voicing complaints or criticisms to third parties, especially uninvolved third parties. Constructive criticism is welcomed, but it must be made only to those who have the authority to make changes. Those who have complaints about the school, its personnel, or its policies should direct their complaints to the director or other administrator. The prohibition against griping applies to parents as well as students. Griping or denigrating the school in the hallways and/or parking lot is a violation of school policy. Griping may result in a student being dismissed from school. Once the issue is satisfactory resolved, all parties involved are required to maintain a code of confidentiality and to not divulge any unnecessary information that may harm the wellbeing of the children and the school.


Kids Learning Center staff is trained to develop positive language and conflict resolution skills. Kids Learning Center needs to know when a family is unhappy with any facet of our program. The staff is prepared to listen and address all concerns. Parents should always feel free to discuss openly their needs and/or concerns with their child’s teacher, office staff or director. Families often are concerned that when they voice a problem that their children may be treated differently. However, Kids Learning Center’s professional program and all staff are dedicated to meet the needs of families and children. Open communication with our families is vital to the continued excellence of our program. We will work diligently to satisfy any concerns you may have, so do not hesitate to let us know how we can better serve your family.

STRATEGIES FOR HANDLING CONFLICTS AND DISAGREEMENTS

Parents and school staff members must work closely together to address the issues. It is essential for both parties to realize that the goals for the child are 'shared goals'. Both must

agree that the child's interest comes first. Avoid confrontation and deal specifically with solutions to the identified issues and be prepared to

offer alternatives. Always deal with the issues not the emotions and the people involved. Decide on what you can compromise on, effective resolution usually requires some form of

compromise on both parties behalf. Be sure that your expectations are realistic and reasonable. Specify both long term and short term goals and state when a follow up visit should occur. Both parties need to commit to the recommended solutions and agree jointly. Both parties must rely on each other, it is therefore essential to work out differences and work

together regardless of how sensitive the issue is.

Differences must be resolved - it is in the best interest of the child to do so. Remember, sometimes a disagreement occurs as a direct result of misunderstanding. Always clarify the issues at hand.


RESPECTING THE STAFFKLC prides itself in its professional staff. All of KLC employees are committed to educating your children and with that purpose; a quality program is implemented throughout the year. There may be times when you may disagree with the techniques used by a teacher or an administrator. These situations can be resolved in a respectful manner. Parents have open door to the administration staff to discuss any concerns. Disrespectful behavior, inappropriate words, and insensitive comments will not be tolerated and may result in the dismissal of the student from the school.

VISITING THE SCHOOLDue to legal regulations, students are not permitted to have guests attend school with them at any time. Parents/guardians are always welcome and tours may be arranged to view the school. Classroom visits require a 24-hour notice. Visitors are required to check in at the school secretary’s desk before going directly to the classrooms. Anyone who fails to follow these procedures will be considered a trespasser and is subject to arrest.

Parents are reminded that teachers are not available for conferences immediately before class begins when students are arriving, nor immediately when children are leaving. At drop off time, parents may leave their child at the door but not come in the classroom. All classrooms have a window for parents to observe from the outside without disrupting the daily routine. If your presence in the class causes a disruption in the routine or students’ behavior, the teacher will ask the visiting parent to retire from the class for the benefit of the children.32KLCSD Parent Handbook 32 Rev. 09/2018

PARENTS/VOLUNTEERSIf a preschool parent wishes to participate in classroom activities and/or field trips, they may do so by contacting the office and completing the registration form as a volunteer prior to being inside the classroom. This process requires the approval of the school administration. If your presence in the class causes a disruption in the routine or students’ behavior, the teacher will ask the volunteering parent or relative to retire from the class for the benefit of the children.

If a parent/guardian/volunteer will be spending more than four hours per month at Kids Learning Center or on a field trip, they will be required to submit the following documents: 1. Proof of identification 2. Signed Volunteer Affidavit 3. Criminal (local) background check 4. Must be at least 18 years of age 5. Signed Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Requirements 6. Background Screening & Personnel File Requirements

If a parent/guardian/volunteer will be spending more than ten hours per week at Kids Learning Center, they will be required to submit the following documents: 1. Proof of identification 2. Signed Affidavit of Good Moral Character 3. Criminal (local) background check 4. Must be at least 18 years of age5. FBI & FDLE Clearance Letter 6. Signed Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting Requirements 7. Background Screening & Personnel File Requirements


The following are the volunteer policies:1. Must wear the volunteer identification badge, appropriate attire for a school setting, no jeans,

comfortable low flat shoes (no sneakers)2. Must use proper voice tone and adequate language.3. Must comply with the time agreed upon in her volunteer contract.4. During a field trip, may not purchase items for the children or themselves.5. Giving food or drinks to the children is not allowed unless given to the entire school and

permitted by KLC.6. Must respect all of the school policies and take care of school property. 7. May not post in the internet or any other place pictures of the school or students. 8. Will notify the classroom teacher and administration of any concerns that may affect the

students and/or the school adversely.9. Will not engage in personal conversations while volunteering at the center. 10. Volunteers will be provided with a copy of the Teacher’s Manual and must agree to all policies.11. Volunteers are not allowed to use their cell phones while volunteering at the center.

PARENT CLASSROOM INVOLVEMENTEvery family of Kids Learning Center is encouraged to participate in our academic program. Every parent/guardian should make arrangements with their child’s teacher to participate in the classroom activities. Parents/guardians will have the opportunity to read to the children in the parent’s native language, explain their job traits, participate in the implementation of the curriculum, chaperone in a field trip, share their family traditions, their culture, etc.


Parents planning to volunteer throughout the school year must provide the center with a criminal (local) background check and a signed volunteer affidavit prior to the activity. There are times throughout the year when parents may be requested to serve as a chaperone or helper in some activity. The school requires the parents to follow the same standards of dress and conduct as required of the staff. Parents not in harmony with these standards will not be permitted to participate as chaperones.

The faculty and administration encourage parents of our students to remain actively involved in their child’s education. Parents should feel free to contact their child’s teachers to discuss progress. Appointments can be made through the school office.

PARENTS AND TEACHERS INVOLVEMENT GROUPKids Learning Center supports strong parent involvement. Parents are encouraged to join our Parent Group at any time throughout the school year. Things that will be discussed but not limited to are school activities, concerns, suggestions, fundraisers, curriculum implementation and community involvement.

WORKSHOPS FOR PARENTSThe staff works closely with our families in a concerned and supportive manner to enhance the child’s and family well-being. Conferences and additional family advice and support are available upon request. Our school has contact with the counseling community and can often be of assistance obtaining special services. Parenting workshops are offered during the year. Parents and staff are encouraged to attend these workshops.

TELEPHONE CALLS - PARENTSIt is always a pleasure to answer any telephone calls in reference to your child. The secretary will take a message for the teacher to communicate with you throughout the day. If the teacher is unable to reach you or if her busy schedule does not allow her to respond via telephone, she will leave a note in the office with a response to your concern. It is the responsibility of the parent to request the note in the afternoon.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg. 29

MESSAGES AND USE OF TELEPHONE - STUDENTSThe school is equipped with telephones to facilitate business transactions of the school, and the lines must be kept available for this purpose. Students may only use the school telephones for emergencies.

The school cannot convey messages to individual students without interrupting the instructional program. We do appreciate your cooperation in not requesting us to deliver messages to students, except in an emergency situation.

HEALTH EXAMINATION1. No student will be admitted to school without presenting tangible documentation that health

requirements have been met.2. The Florida School Health Services Plan provides that a health examination shall be

administered within 12 months prior to initial entry into a Florida school. Parents/legal guardians of all students (PK-12) must present tangible evidence of a health examination complete with Tuberculosis Clinical Screening and follow-up on the appropriate DH Form (3040) prior to initial entrance into a Miami-Dade County Public School. The health examination must have been performed within the past 12 months.

MEDICAL EMERGENCY PLAN All staff is CPR and First Aid Certified. The following procedures will be used by Kids Learning Center in the case of a medical emergency:


LIFE THREATHENING

1. Access the situation and call 911 - obtain ambulance service2. Apply First Aid and or CPR if necessary3. Notify the Parent4. Notify the designated emergency contact if parent cannot be reached plus the child's physician 5. Have incident/accident report filled out completely 6. Let additional administration know that an administrator will be accompanying the child if the

child needs to be transported to the hospital 7. Ensure child's file containing emergency and medical release forms and other contact information

accompany child to the hospital

NON LIFE THREATENING

1. Access the situation and call 911 or child's physician for help and advice if necessary2. Apply First Aid3. Contact parent or emergency contact 4. Have incident/accident report filled out completely 5. If neither the parent or emergency contact can be reached we will call 9116. Administration will be instructed to continue to try and contact parents and emergency contacts.

Kids Learning Center works in a partnership with Child Development Services; therefore they will also be notified of any accidents or injuries. If a child shows that he is not being his/herself, the teacher will check his/her temperature and look for signs that may identify whether or not the child may be sick. Parents will be contacted immediately in the event a child displays a fever of 100° or more. If the fever is higher than 102° and the parents have not arrived at the school or cannot be reached, the office will call 911.


EMERGENCY CONTACTIt is very important and the responsibility of the parents or guardians for us to have the name and phone number of someone who can be responsible for your child if we cannot reach you. This person should be able to come to school and pick up your child if necessary. Please be sure that the person you list has this understanding.

EXEMPTION FROM ACTIVITIESStudents are expected to participate in the daily activities of the school program. If, for medical reasons, it becomes necessary for the student to be excused, he/she must bring a note from a parent or physician. If the duration of the excuse is for three or more days, the parent must obtain an Exclusion Form from the student’s physician.

ILLNESSES If you suspect that your child is not well, please keep him home out of consideration for his

classmates. If your child has had a fever, his temperature should be normal for 24 hours before returning to

school. If your child has a cold, is coughing, and has a runny nose, please consider that he may be

contagious to others and keep him/her home or make other arrangements for his care until he recovers.

If your child has a rash, please keep him home and contact your doctor to find out the cause.

There are several illnesses which are common occurrences in preschool and in early-age school children, which are noted below. If your child has any of these illnesses, please KEEP HIM/HER

HOME, contact your child’s doctor, and notify the school immediately with the date of infection


or first exposure. The best way to stop the spread of contagious diseases is isolation. It may be recommended that you quarantine your child during the known period of greatest communicability to minimize the spread of infection to others. If we respect and are considerate of each other, we will not send our children to school sick. Children will not be admitted to school and will be sent home if they exhibit any symptoms of illness. Please help us control and minimize the spread of infections to others by providing care for your children when they are sick. Sick children will be sent to the office and wait there until parent arrives in an isolated area.

1. Head Lice- Please do not allow your child to bring combs and brushes to class, as this can be a primary way of spreading head lice. After treatment, each child, before being re-admitted to class, will be rechecked to determine that they are completely free of lice and/or nits. School wide head checks are done as needed and the entire facility is professionally sprayed if a major outbreak occurs.

2. Pinworm - Symptoms that this condition may exist include restlessness, irritability, fretful sleeping, and rectal itching. The testing and treatment of this condition is very simple. It is important to follow all instructions that are given with the medication to prevent re-infestation.

3. Pink Eye - Pink eye is a virus that is highly contagious. Signs and symptoms are red, watery, itching eyes. During treatment, you can expect your child to be home approximately two days.

4. Chicken Pox - Noticeable symptoms include a rash of raised blisters containing watery fluid. You can expect your child to be home from seven to ten days.

Please keep your child home until he is symptom free and no longer contagious. A written statement from a physician may be required before returning to school. In the event a child has a chronic condition or allergy related symptoms, a doctor’s note will be required to keep on file.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.31FLU POLICYThe Flu Policy is designed to decrease exposure to regular seasonal flu and 2009 H1N1 flu while limiting the disruption of day-to-day activities and the vital learning that goes on at the school. The decision to dismiss students will be made by the administration after consulting the Center of Disease Control and balancing the goal of reducing the number of people who become seriously ill or die from influenza with the goal of minimizing social disruption and safety risks to children sometimes associated with school dismissal. Based on the experience and knowledge gained in jurisdictions that had large outbreaks in spring 2009, the potential benefits of preemptively dismissing students from school are often outweighed by negative consequences, including students being left home alone, health workers missing shifts when they must stay home with their children, students missing meals, and interruption of students’ education.

For additional helpful information about the dangers of the flu and how to protect your child, visit: http://www.immunizeflorida.org or http://www.cdc.gov/flu/ .

LIST OF EXCLUDABLE AND REPORTABLE CONDITIONS FOR PARENTSParents must inform KLC of any of the following conditions affecting their child. KLC requires the parents to have the child evaluated by a health care provider. The advice of the health care provider shall be documented for the following situations:

The child has any of the following conditions: fever, lethargy, irritability, persistent crying, difficult breathing, or other manifestations of possible severe illness;

The child has diarrhea with blood or mucus in the stool(s); The child has E. coli O157:H7, Shigella or Salmonella infection;36KLCSD Parent Handbook 36 Rev. 09/2018

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/

http://www.immunizeflorida.org/

The child has mouth sores associated with drooling; The child has a rash with fever and behavioral change; The child has purulent conjunctivitis; The child has tuberculosis; The child vomits 2 or more times during the previous 24 hours; The child has impetigo; The child has streptococcal pharyngitis; The child has scabies; The child has pertussis; The child has hepatitis A virus infection.

NOTIFICATION OF THE FACILITY ABOUT COMMUNICABLE DISEASE OR OTHER PROBLEMS BY PARENTSUpon registration of each child, parents/guardians must notify the facility within 24 hours after their child or any member of the immediate household has developed a known or suspected communicable disease as required by the health department. When the child has a disease requiring exclusion or dismissal, the parents shall inform KLC of the diagnosis.

The KLC encourages parents to inform the teachers of any other problems which may affect the child's behavior.

INCIDENT REPORTING (ABUSE)

An incident is defined as any actual or alleged event or situation that creates a significant risk of substantial or serious harm to the physical or mental health, safety or wellbeing of a child participating in the program. Reportable incidents include but are not limited to, allegations of abuse, neglect or exploitation of a child, injury of a participant, missing child or abandoned child, loss of property use for the program, or destruction of property used in the program.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.32KLCSD shall immediately report knowledge or reasonable suspicion of abuse, neglect, or abandonment of a child, aged person, or disabled adult to the Florida Abuse Hotline on the statewide toll-free telephone number (1-800-96-ABUSE). As required by Chapters 39 and 415, Florida Statutes, this is binding upon both Provider and its employees.

Provider shall not notify the contract manager of any incident as defined within three (3) days after Provider is informed of such incident report. The report will contain the following information:

(1) Name of reporter (person giving the notice)(2) Name and address of victim and guardian(3) Phone number where the reporter can be contacted(4) Date, time, and location of incident(5) Complete description of incident and injuries, if any

Police report and actions take shall be submitted to its Funders within fifteen (15) days of the incident. Provider shall provide written notification to its Funders within seven (7) days of any legal action related to the incident.

ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT REPORT

Accident reports are completed by the teachers for all injuries occurring at school. When a child gets hurt at school, a phone call will be immediately made to report the accident or incident. If it is a medical emergency, we will call 911 first and then the parents. The safety of every child is always foremost in our minds. An incident or accident report will be in the office for the parent or guardian to


sign. Any accident/incident that is part of the after school or summer camp program will be reported to funders (TCT and 21st CCLC) and reported on their form within 3 days to the contract manager.

DAILY HEALTH CHECKIf a child arrives to school with an obvious physical concern that occurred during the period before school hours, a daily report should be filled out and signed by the parent or guardian immediately upon arrival.

MEDICATION POLICY AND PROCEDURESThe director at Kids Learning Center will administer medication at school in certain circumstances under the following guidelines:

1. The school will not be responsible to administer medications unless it is recently prescribed by a physician, and parents have completed and signed an authorization for medication form. The medication MUST be in its original container, with the pharmacy information label reflecting the name of the child and the dose prescribed by the doctor, and accompanied by the pamphlet that includes side effects and reactions for the medication.

2. We will not administer more than one medication per child in any given day. Please discuss with your doctor the less possible time table to administer medication. For example, if the medication must be given three times a day, you give it to your child at home before school, the school will administer the medication during the time in school, and the last dose is given by you at night. Exceptions will be made per doctor’s authorization with proper documentation.

3. We will not administer any medication requiring special equipment, such as aerosol units, etc. However, parents are welcome to come and administer the medication themselves as needed.

4. Over the counter drugs will not be administered unless prescribed by a doctor. There will be no exceptions.

5. A detailed log will be kept for all medication dispensed at school.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.336. All medications will be dispensed at specified times during the day by the director.7. Per state regulations, in instances where a wound occurs, Kids Learning Center staff is only

allowed to cover the wound using ice and/or bandage until help arrives. Staff must wear plastic gloves when cleansing a wound.

8. Medication will be stored in proper storage; refrigerator or in a locked first aid cabinet.

ADMINISTRATION OF MEDICATIONThe Director at Kids Learning Center will ensure that:

1. The child receives the right medication2. The child receives the right dose3. The medication is administered at the right time4. The side effects of the medication has been observed and reported.5. The Medication Administered Form/log is signed.

The director that will administer the medication will have a current CPR and First Aid Certificate

IMMUNIZATIONNO STUDENT WILL BE ADMITTED TO SCHOOL WITHOUT PRESENTING TANGIBLE DOCUMENTATION SHOWING THAT IMMUNIZATION REQUIREMENTS HAVE BEEN MET.

1. The Florida School Health Services Plan and Florida Statutes require prior to a child’s entry into school that each child entitled to initial entrance into a Florida public school present and have on file a Florida Certification of Immunization, DH Form 680, from a health care provider.


2. Students entering, attending, or transferring into Pre-Kindergarten, kindergarten, first, second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh grade in Florida will be required to have proof of the Varicella disease (chicken pox) Varivax Vaccine. In each subsequent year thereafter, the next highest grades are included. Varicella vaccine is not required if a child has a documented history of Varicella disease.

3. Beginning with the 2008-2009 school year, children entering kindergarten will be required to receive two doses of varicella vaccine. Each subsequent year thereafter, the next highest grade will be included in the requirement.

4. Students entering, attending, or transferring into Pre-Kindergarten through twelfth (PK-12) grade in Florida will be required to show proof of the Hepatitis B (HBV) series. Students may enroll in/attend school if they have received the first of three doses of the Hepatitis B Vaccine.

5. Students entering, attending, or enrolling in Kindergarten through Fifth grade must provide documentation of two measles immunizations, preferably in the form of measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR).

6. Students will be given a Temporary Medical Exemption, on a Florida Certificate of Immunization, DH Form 680 PART B, until the vaccines are completed. Students will be excluded from school attendance if additional certification is not presented on, or before the expiration date noted on the Temporary Certificate.

7. Students exempt from immunizations for medical reasons must provide an original Permanent Medical Exemption, on a Florida Certificate of Immunization, DH Form 680, and PART C.

8. Students exempt from immunizations for religious reasons must provide an original RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION FROM IMMUNIZATION, on a Florida Certificate of Immunization, DH Form 681.

9. The principal is responsible for monitoring the status of students admitted with a Temporary Medical Exemption. Two weeks prior to the expiration date, letters will be sent to parents/guardians alerting them to impending exclusion.


INSECT REPELLENT POLICYChildren's exposure to insects during the school day is not likely to be high, but since our students do spend time outdoors (for example, in recreational activities, field trips, physical education); parents may wish to apply repellent before sending their child to school, especially during the peak of the mosquito season. Insect repellents can help reduce exposure to mosquito bites that may carry viruses such as West Nile virus that can cause serious illness and even death. Using insect repellent allows the student to continue to play and work outdoors with a reduced risk of mosquito bites. Employees at KLC are not authorized to apply repellent on any of the students, unless, it is prescribed by a doctor and parental approval is received by the school.

Always follow the recommendations appearing on the product label when using repellent.

When using repellent on a child, apply it to your own hands and then rub them on your child. Avoid children's eyes and mouth and use it sparingly around their ears.

Do not apply repellent to children's hands. (Children tend to put their hands in their mouths.) Do not allow young children to apply insect repellent to themselves; have an adult do it for them.

Keep repellents out of reach of children. Do not apply repellent to skin under clothing. If repellent is applied to clothing, wash treated

clothing before wearing again.

Use of repellents products may cause skin reactions in rare cases. Most products also note that eye irritation can occur if product gets in the eye. If you suspect a reaction to a product, discontinue use, wash the treated skin, and call a poison control center. If product gets in the eyes flush with water and consult health care provider or poison control center. If you go to a doctor, take the product with you. There is a national number to reach a Poison Control Center near you: 1-800-222-1222.


The information in this handbook is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional.SUNSCREEN POLICYChildren at our school spend part of their day playing outdoors in the sun, especially during the summer. UV rays are strongest during summer months when the sun is directly overhead (normally between 10:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.). Parents may wish to apply sunscreen before sending their child to school; it is KLC policy not to permit teachers or staff personnel to apply sunscreen to any of our students, unless, it is prescribed by a doctor and proper procedures of parental authorization are followed.According to The American Academy of Dermatology protection from the sun should start at birth and continue throughout your child's life. It is estimated that 60 to 80 percent of total lifetime sun exposure occurs in the first 18 years of life. A sunscreen protects from sunburn and minimizes suntan by absorbing UV rays. Using sunscreens correctly is important in protecting the skin. Consider the following recommendations:Choose a sunscreen for children and test it on your child's wrist before using. If your child develops skin or eye irritation, choose another brand. Apply the sunscreen very carefully around the eyes

Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that filters out both ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) rays.


Apply sunscreens to all exposed areas of skin, including those easily overlooked areas, such as the rims of the ears, the lips, the back of the neck, and tops of the feet.

Use sunscreens for all children over 6 months of age, regardless of skin or complexion type, because all skin types need protection from UV rays. Even dark-skinned children can have painful sunburns.

Apply sunscreens 30 minutes before going out into the sun to give it time to work. Use it liberally and reapply it every two hours after being in the water or after exercising or sweating. Sunscreens are not just for the beach - use them when your child is playing outdoors in the yard or participating in sports.

Use a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen. Use of a sunscreen with SPF of 20 to 30 offers substantial protection from sunburn and prevents

tanning. High SPF sunscreens protect from burning for longer periods of time than do sunscreens with lower a SPF. Talk with your older child or teenager about using sunscreen and why it's important. Set a good example for them by using sunscreen yourself.

The information in this handbook is provided for educational purposes. You understand and agree that this information is not intended to be, and should not be used as, a substitute for medical treatment by a health care professional.

ELECTRONIC DEVICES

DefinitionFor purposes of this policy "Electronic Device" means a privately owned wireless and/or portable electronic handheld equipment that include, but are not limited to, existing and emerging mobile communication systems and smart technologies (cell phones, smart phones, walkie-talkies, pagers, etc.), portable internet devices (mobile managers, mobile messengers, BlackBerry TM handset, etc.), Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) (Palm organizers, pocket PCs, etc.), handheld entertainment systems (video games, CD players, compact DVD players, MP3 players, iPods ©, Walkman TM 40KLCSD Parent Handbook 40 Rev. 09/2018

devices, etc.), and any other convergent communication technologies that do any number of the previously mentioned functions. Electronic Device also include any current or emerging wireless handheld technologies or portable information technology systems that can be used for word processing, wireless Internet access, image capture/recording, sound recording and information transmitting/receiving/storing, etc.

Students are not allowed to bring beepers, cellular telephones, radios, games, game boys, tape or CD players, laser pointers, I Pods, etc., to school at any time, including before or after school extended supervision. The school is not liable for the loss of any such items if they are brought into the school.

ConfiscationIf a student violates this policy, his/her electronic device may be confiscated. When an employee confiscates an electronic device under this policy, he/she shall take reasonable measures to label and secure the device and turn the device over to a school administrator as soon as the employee's duties permit. The electronic device will be released/returned to the student's parent or guardian after the student has complied with any other disciplinary consequence that is imposed.

Potential Disciplinary Actions Violation of this policy can result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or

expulsion, and notification of law enforcement authorities. Failing citizenship grades. In school suspension Out of school suspension Expulsion.


Removal of privileges for extra-curricular activities. Disciplinary consequences consistent with a school wide discipline program such as demerit

points. Loss of extracurricular or honor privileges or recognition.

Security of DevicesStudents shall be personally and solely responsible for the security of electronic devices brought to school. The school shall not assume responsibility for theft, loss, damage, or unauthorized calls made with an electronic device. If devices are loaned to or borrowed and misused by non-owners, device owners are jointly responsible for the misuse or policy violation(s).

Prohibitions on audio recordingCamera or audio recording functions of electronic devices by the students, family members or visitors may pose threats to the personal privacy of individuals, used to exploit personal information, and or compromise the integrity of educational programs. Accordingly, the use of the audio recording or camera functions of electronic devices is strictly prohibited on school premises at all times.

ExceptionsWith prior approval of the principal, the above prohibitions may be relaxed under the following circumstances:

the use is specifically required to implement a student's current and valid IEP; the use is at the direction of a teacher for educational purposes; The use is determined by the principal to be necessary for other special circumstances, health

related reasons, or emergency Family event or activity authorized by the Principal

INTERNET USE POLICY


Access and use of the Internet is a privilege, not a right, and its use must support the educational objectives of KLC. Students must always get permission from their teachers prior to using the internet. In addition, KLC prohibits the transmission of materials such as copyright material, threatening or obscene material or material protected by trade secret, which violate local, state, and federal law or regulation, as well as the use of the Internet for product advertisement, commercial activities, political campaigning or solicitation.

SCHOOL PARKING AREASThe school parking areas are for the use of faculty, staff, delivery personnel, and parents in the process of drop/pick off only. Please do not leave your car unattended in front of the school, always turn off your car, close the doors, and make sure not to leave any items visible that invite to theft.

Unattended children are not allowed on the parking lot. All children must be accompanied by an adult (18 and over) to and from their classrooms. Children are NOT to walk into the building and to their classrooms alone.

BABYSITTING / TRANSPORTATION OF CHILDRENKids Learning Center does not provide transportation nor does it have insurance to transport children enrolled in our day programs. After school care children may be transported by private buses, which meet county requirements. Employees of Kids Learning Center are not authorized to transport children on behalf of the center. Likewise, teachers are not encouraged to provide babysitting services for children at the school. In instances where that may occur, the babysitting arrangement is between the parent and the employee outside of work hours and the scope of the teacher’s duties and responsibilities with

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.36the school. Kids Learning Center is not responsible for any incident related to arrangements made between parents and teachers related to babysitting, tutoring or transportation issues. It is the responsibility of the parent to provide transportation for his child to and from the school. Kids Learning Center is not responsible for any transportation accidents or incidents including in the parking lot.

PRESCHOOL WATER PLAYWhen the weather is warm, preschool children may have planned activities that allow for play in the sprinklers or with a hose. Likewise, our curriculum involves water/fluid construction play. Many children have tubes in their ears and cannot have water near their ears. It is important for parents to report to the office and the teacher the child’s medical needs before they are allowed to get into water play areas.

Children are encouraged to show responsibility for their personal items. Labeled coat hooks and cubbies are provided to facilitate this. Each child should keep an extra change of clothes in his/her cubby along with the nap blankets. During Fluids Class or Summer Camp activities, children may change into bathing suits and shoes will be taken off. Teachers will label personal items in a plastic zip-lock bag. The bag will be placed in the child’s cubby or hook. Parents will be notified by the teacher if it is necessary to replace soiled clothing.

PRESCHOOL BITINGOur curriculum focuses on ensuring the environment; caregiver and individual needs of the child are met through developmentally appropriate practices. As a result, biting incidents should be minimal. Nonetheless, we recognize that biting is a normal behavior that sometimes occurs with preschoolers. When these incidents occur, we take them seriously. A child may bite when he gets angry or frustrated or lacks language skills necessary to express his or herself. When biting occurs at school, it is handled calmly but seriously. Age-appropriate language is used to discuss what happened, how it felt and what else the child could have done. Children are encouraged to resolve the problem together. . 42KLCSD Parent Handbook 42 Rev. 09/2018

A note will be sent home if your child is involved in a biting incident. The Director will contact the parent or guardian after a child bites twice in order to begin the process of a behavior intervention plan. If the biting continues or becomes excessive after the behavior intervention plan has been implemented, the school may ask the parents to keep the child at home for a designated period of time or remove the child from our program. When determining the actions necessary we consider the safety and wellbeing of all the children. (See Discipline Policy)

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS

AIR QUALITYKeeping room temperature 65-82 degrees (F)

HYGIENE POLICIESChildren will be expected to come to school well groomed and with clean, fresh clothing. Nails should be short and free of dirt. An adequate supply of spare clothing should be available in the cubby.

Adequate clothing for outdoor play should be provided, appropriate to the season. Protection against the sun and insects should also be provided during the summer months.

Soiled clothing and bedding will be wrapped in plastic bags to be picked up.

Only disposable diapers (supplied by the parents) will be used. Children who are not fully potty trained will be required to wear pull-ups or diapers at nap.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.37Sharing of hairbrushes, combs will be prohibited.

SANITATION

Sanitizing Solutions: Public health experts widely recommend bleach as a sanitizing and disinfecting solution. Bleach kills a broader range of bacteria and viruses, and kills germs faster than many non-bleach disinfectants. Antibacterial soaps kill bacteria on the skin, but are not formulated for killing germs on hard surfaces.

1. Basic Disinfecting Solution: 3/4 cup liquid bleach with 1 gallon water. Apply to surface. Keep surface wet for 2 minutes. Rinse with water. Let dry.

2. Disinfecting Solution for Hard, Nonporous Surfaces (counters): 1 tablespoon liquid bleach with 1 gallon water. Apply to surface. Keep surface wet for 2 minutes. Allow to air dry. Do not rinse.

3. Disinfecting Solution for Porous Surface (cutting boards): 3 tablespoons liquid bleach with 1 gallon water. Apply to surface wet for 2 minutes. Rinse with water. Let dry.

All surfaces that come into contact with potentially infectious bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, vomit, “spit-up”, urine, feces, oozing from wounds or infections, mucus are cleaned up and disinfected with bleach and water solution immediately, and children’s staffs hands are washed properly without contaminating any other surfaces.

Special care is given to keeping floors in infant rooms clean, for example by removing outside shoes or wearing shoe covers.

Toys that have been soiled or mouthed are set aside to be washed or sanitized before they are offered again to children.

Pacifiers and tethers are not shared by children, and if contaminated, they are washed with washed and water before returning to the child.

Hand-free trash containers are used, to minimized contamination of hands. Separate trash containers are used for disposing of diapers.

Individual paper towels, disposable tissues, and liquid soap are accessible.


Dirty floors and play surfaces are cleaned up immediately. Indoor and outdoor areas used for children are free of animal’s contamination. Dress-up clothes are cleaned on a regular basis and whenever soiled.

DIAPER POLICYFor children who are unable to use the toilet consistently, staff is required to:

1. Use only commercial available disposable diapers or pull-ups supplied by the parents unless the child has a medical reason that does not permit their use (documentation provided by the child’s physician must be filed in the office and in the classroom manila “Allergies” folder.)

2. Make sure that for children who require cloth diapers, the diaper has an absorbent inner lining completely contained within an outer covering made of waterproof material that prevents the escape of feces and urine. Both the diaper and outer covering must be changed as a unit.

3. Immediately place cloth diapers and clothing that are soiled by urine or feces in a plastic bag (without rinsing or avoidable handling) and sent home that day for laundering.

DIAPER CHANGING Staff must check children for signs that diapers or pull-ups are wet or contain feces at least every 2 hours when children are awake and when children are awaken. Diapers must be changed when they are wet or soiled in the designated changing areas and not elsewhere in the facility.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.38CHANGING AREA

Must be 3 feet away from other areas that children use. Used exclusively for a designated group of children. Kindergarten and elementary may use their designated classroom bathroom. Staff must have a hand on the child when the child is being changed on an elevated surface. Changing procedures must be posted Surface used for changing and on which changing materials are placed cannot be used for

other purposes, including temporary placement of other objects, and especially not for any object involved with food or feeding.

Containers that hold soiled diapers and diapering materials have a lid that opens and closes tightly by using a hands-fee device.

Containers must be kept closed and inaccessible to children.

DIAPER CHANGING PROCEDUREThe following diaper changing procedure must be followed at all times:

1. Wear a new pair of disposable gloves prior to each diaper change.2. Place child on a clean, disinfected, dry changing table.3. Clean child’s body with a pre-moistened disposable wipe.4. Remove gloves and discard with soiled diaper in a lined and covered trash receptacle.5. Replace soiled diapers and clothing with clean items.6. Place soiled clothes in a plastic bag.7. Wash child’s hands under running water with soap and dry their hands with a disposable

towel.8. Return the child to the crib or play.9. Disinfect the following: • Diapering area • Equipment and supplies • Any surface or

furnishings contaminated with urine or feces10. WASH YOUR HANDS.


Teachers responsible for children that require diaper changing must never lose sight of the other students under his/her care while changing a soiled diaper. Staff members whose primary function is preparing food will not change diapers until their food preparation duties are completed for day.

APPROVED DISINFECTANT SOLUTION FOR DIAPER CHANGING¼ cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water1 minute contact time required

POTTY TRAINING RULES AND PROCEDURESWe will do our best to help make potty training go smoothly and quickly. Please help us by sending your child in clothes that will be convenient for us and them and make going potty many times a day easier.

STAGE 1. When a child starts showing interest in going potty and will potty at home at least several times a day. At this point we will follow up at day care by taking the child to the potty at set times (every hour or two) to get them comfortable and going potty consistently here. Child is still to be brought in diapers and diapers are to be provided for the child. No pull-ups at this stage.

STAGE 2. When the child is going potty on a regular basis at day care and home and telling us when they need to go. At this point the child may wear pull-ups or training pants and provide diapers for nap or emergencies. If the child does not have bowel movements in the potty you will be asked to keep them inpull-ups until this has been mastered.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.39STAGE 3. When the child is telling us and going potty consistently and also keeping the pull-up or training pants dry without many accidents. At this point you may still provide diapers for nap time if necessary.

STAGE 4. The child is going potty on their own and wearing panties or underwear and staying dry at naptime. Congratulations!

HAND WASHING POLICY

HAND WASHING PROCEDUREHand washing is the single most important method of preventing the spread of infectious diseases. By frequently washing your hands, you eliminate up to 99.9 % of germs you may have picked up from contaminated surfaces.

1. Wet your hands under warm, running water. Avoid contact with the faucet after this point.2. Lather the soap on your hands for at least ten to fifteen seconds and then rub your hands

together vigorously.3. Wash your palms, in between your fingers, under your fingernails and the back of your hand;

focus on the ends of your fingers.4. Rinse your hands thoroughly under the warm running water.5. Dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel from a receptacle.6. Turn off the water using the towel to turn the nozzle. This will help to avoid re-infection.

The entire process should take no longer than a minute and can be done in any sink. Staff will not use hand washing sink for bathing children or for removing smeared fecal material. The school provided two showers for this purpose. In situations where sinks are used for both food preparation and other purposes, staff shall clean and sanitize the sinks before using them to prepare food.

WHEN TO WASH STAFF HANDS


http://www.healthrattle.com/cleanhands/

As you touch people, surfaces and objects throughout the day, you accumulate germs on your hands. In turn, you can infect yourself with these germs by touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Although it's impossible to keep your hands germ-free, washing your hands frequently can help limit the transfer of bacteria, viruses and other microbes.

Always wash your hands before: Preparing food Eating or feeding a child Treating wounds or giving medicine Touching a sick or injured person Inserting or removing contact lenses

Always wash your hands after: On arrival for the day Preparing food, especially raw meat or poultry Using the toilet Changing a diaper Assisting a child with toileting Feeding a child Administering Medication Touching an animal or animal toys, leashes or waste Blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing into your hands

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.39 Treating wounds Touching a sick or injured person Handling body fluids (e.g. vomit, blood) Playing with water that is shared by two or more people Handling materials such as sand, dirt, or surfaces that might be contaminated by contact with

animals Handling garbage or something that could be contaminated, such as a cleaning cloth or soiled

shoes Moving from one group to another (e.g. visiting) that involves contact with infants and

toddlers/twos.

Of course, it's also important to wash your hands whenever they look dirty.

WHEN TO WASH CHILDREN HANDS On arrival of the day After changing diaper or using the toilet After handling body fluids Before and after meals and snacks Before preparing or serving foods After handling any raw food that requires cooking After handling pets or other animals After handling materials such as sand, dirt, or surfaces that might be contaminated by contact

with animals When moving from one group to another

Of course, it's also important to wash children’s hands whenever they look dirty.

WHEN TO WEAR GLOVESStaff must wear gloves when:

Contamination with blood may occur Handling body fluids


Except when handling blood or body fluids that might contain blood, wearing gloves is an optional supplement, but not a substitute for hand washing in any required hand washing situation listed above.

USE OF SANITIZERThe use of alcohol based hand rubs in lieu of hand washing is prohibited at KLC.

CLEANINGThe school physical plant is a reflection of our program. All toys and materials should be organized and tidy. Staff is responsible for their personal classroom space and for all general areas. We have no maid service. Cleaning chores such as bathrooms, playground, sinks, library, conference room, and teacher’s resource center are shared by all. Toys and cots should be disinfected regularly and the bathroom and sink room disinfected continuously. A toy that a child has placed in his or her mouth or that is otherwise contaminated by body secretion or excretion must be washed by hand using water and detergent, and then rinsed, sanitized, and air dried.

INSPECTION POLICYThe school reserves the right to inspect and conduct a search of a student’s book bag, backpack, and any other possessions or property on the school premises or on a school sanctioned excursion. Inspections

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg. 40and searches may be conducted on a routine or on a random basis. Further, the school has the right to seize and permanently retain property disclosed by an inspection or search which is considered potentially harmful, dangerous, illegal, or inappropriate, the possession of which is a violation of the school rules, community standards, and/or local and state law.

WEAPONS - FIREARMS - FIREWORK - KNIVES - ETC.Students are never to bring weapons of any kind, firearms, fireworks, knives, etc. onto the school property at any time. This prohibition includes pocket knives (even those which are part of a key chain), firecrackers, matches, lighters, smoke bombs, stink bombs, or any type of explosive devices. Possession of any of these may result in a suspension or expulsion at the discretion of the administration.

Jewelry – Toys – Bags – Personal Belongings Students are not allowed to wear jewelry, bring personal belongings, toys or bags of any kind to school. If any of these items are brought in, it will be held in the office and be brought to the attention of the parent/guardian. These items are a distraction to the learning environment.

PETS OR VISITING ANIMALSAny animals in the classroom must be authorized by the Director. Areas where pets are kept must be clean and secured. Pets or visiting animals have documentation from a veterinarian or an animal shelter to show that the animals are fully immunized and the animal is suitable for contact with children. Teachers and staff must supervise all interactions between children and animals and instruct children on safe behavior when in close proximity to animals. Domestic animals will not be permitted on the premises of Kids Learning Center. Reptiles are not allowed as classroom pets because of the risk for salmonella infection.

FREE MEALS PROGRAM The USDA Program as administered by KLC provides free meals (breakfast/lunch/snack) for all children enrolled at the school. Applications must be filled out at time of enrollment and every school year thereafter by the first week of school. Meal benefits begin on the day the application is approved and continue throughout the school year in which the application is approved, the summer, and approximately the first twenty days of the next school year.47KLCSD Parent Handbook 47 Rev. 09/2018

MEAL TIME – BREAKFAST, LUNCH AND SNACKOur center provides the children with a balanced diet approved by the United States Department Agriculture. Breakfast, lunch and snacks are administered at designated times to all the children in the center. The center does not allow food from home unless it is required for physical nutritional reasons or religious purposes. In order to be exempt a letter from the child’s physician or a religious release form must be in the student’s file. The alternative food that is brought in must be a well balanced diet or a supplement recommended by the child’s physician. The supplement must be documented on the Medical Statement for Children with Disabilities and Special Dietary Conditions form. It is essential you advise the school and the teacher of any allergies to food.

Food and sharing of food are basic to our humanity. We pay close attention to the quality of food we serve and should pay equal attention to the manner in which it is served. Children are encouraged to discuss their experiences. This is a major language development time. Teachers eat with the children since modeling appropriate table behavior is important.

Children are encouraged to taste a tiny amount of everything and, as they move toward being three years old, they should be responsible for serving themselves. All staff will allow children over three to serve themselves. Meals are carefully planned and balanced between different kinds of foods. Kids Learning

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.41Center tries to use fruits as a part of the meal and discourage the serving of dessert. The school provides a menu low in fat and low in sugar. Children are encouraged to eat a balanced meal, not over eating any one kind of foods (i.e. several pieces of bread or potatoes, while the fruit and/or vegetable are left untouched). If presented in a positive manner, this experience can lead to independent meal time behavior and positive attitudes towards food.

Schedule of Meals and Snacks Infants Varies according to child

Toddler 1/Toddler 2 Lunch: 11:00 a.m. Snack 2:00 p.m.

Preschool/VPK Lunch: 11:30 a.m. Snack 2:30 p.m.

Elementary/Dual Enrollment Lunch: 12:00 p.m. Snack 3:00 p.m.

After School Care Lunch: N/A Snack: 3:00 p.m.

INFANT AND TODDLER FEEDING POLICYProper nutrition is very important to an infant/toddlers growth and development. Close attention to the general and individual nutrition needs of the children in our care is our goal.

Formula Preparation:• Caregiver’s hands will be washed before preparing formula and/or feeding children. Children’s hands will be washed before being fed.• Formula will be brought to the setting in a factory-sealed container and labeled with the child’s name and date.• Formula will be prepared according to the directions on the container. Formula will be used within 48 hours after preparation, opening of ready-to-eat, or concentrate.• Prepared formula must be labeled with child’s name and date and kept covered and refrigerated. Individual bottles must also be labeled with child’s name and date and capped for storage in refrigerator until use.• Filled bottles will be capped and refrigerated immediately upon arrival to the child care program.


• Preparation surface will be cleaned, rinsed, and sanitized before preparing formula or food• A minimum of eight feet will be maintained between the preparation area and the diapering area.• Dirty bottles and equipment will not be stored within eight feet of the diapering area or placed in the diapering sink. They will be placed in a tub to be properly cleaned in the kitchen.• If formula is warmed, the bottle will be placed in hot water (not boiling) for five minutes and temperature tested before giving to infant. Microwave ovens will not be used to heat formula, breast milk, or baby food.• If a crock-pot is used the water temperature must be monitored and held below 120 °F, and contain no more than 1 ½ inches of water (crock pots pose a risk of scalding). The crock-pot must be not be accessible to children. Crock-pots will be cleaned and sanitized daily.• Other acceptable methods of heating infant bottles include: bottle warmers or by holding the bottle under warm running tap water until the fluid is no longer cold. Bottles will be wiped off to prevent hot water from dripping on child.• Any formula remaining in a bottle or food remaining in a serving container after a feeding shall be discarded. (Bacteria from baby’s mouth are introduced into milk and begin to multiply once bottles are taken from the refrigerator and warmed).• If the feeding has taken over 1 hour to complete or the bottle has been un-refrigerated for 1 hour, the milk shall be discarded.• All bottles, nipples and other equipment for bottle preparation will be cleaned and sterilized before each use.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg. 42Breastfeeding and Breast Milk Bottle Preparation:Kids Learning Center promotes Breastfeeding

Kids Learning Center will provide a place where a breastfeeding mother can breastfeed or express their milk. This policy also includes KLC employees. This place will be a private and sanitary place to breastfeed their baby or express milk. This area will have a comfortable chair, electrical outlet, and access to running water. There will be a refrigerator where they can storage expressed breast milk. Breast milk must be labeled with the child’s name and date that the milk is expressed. Kids Learning Center will provide ongoing support to the breastfeeding mothers and their baby. The Infant Teacher will hold off on giving a bottle, if possible, if mom is due to arrive to breastfeed. Formulas and solid foods will only be provided to the baby if mom has requested for it. Babies will always be held closely when feeding and bottles will never be propped. KLC Staff will be trained on how to handle human milk and proper storage. The center will follow the American Academy of Pediatrics and Centers for Disease Control guidelines to ensure that the breast milk is properly treated to avoid waste. Kids Learning Center provides our families with breastfeeding information that can be found in the parent information center.

Breast Milk Bottle Preparation:

• Human milk from a mother will be only used with that mother’s child.• Expressed breast milk may be brought from home if the bottles/breast milk bags are transported in a clean insulated container that keeps the milk at 41 degrees Fahrenheit or below. Breast milk will be refrigerated or frozen as soon as it arrives at the child care program. See Safe Transportation of Breast Milk Form• Child’s full name and date prepared will be on every bottle.• Refrigerated breast milk must be used within 48 hours.• Breast milk first frozen then thawed in refrigerator then must be used within 24 hours.• Frozen breast milk may be kept in the freezer for 2 weeks and in a deep freeze (0 degrees) for 3 months.• Caregiver’s hands will be washed before preparing bottles.


• Frozen breast milk will be thawed under cold water or in the refrigerator.• If heated, all breast milk will be placed in hot water (not boiling) for five minutes and temperature tested before giving to infant. Microwaves will not be used to warm bottles.• Any contents remaining in a bottle after feeding will be discarded. If the feeding has taken over 1 hour to complete or the bottle has been un-refrigerated for 1 hour, the milk shall be discarded.• Only cleaned and sterilized bottles and nipples will be used.• All bottles, nipples and other equipment for bottle preparation will be cleaned and sterilized before each use.

Infant Feeding:

•Infants will be held when bottle feeding and sitting when eating solid foods. Bottle propping, feeding in cribs, car seats, or swings, or holding of bottle by a child will not be permitted.• Infants will be fed every two to three hours or as needed.• Formula or breast milk will be the only milk product served to children younger than 12 months of age unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.• No medication, cereal or baby food will be added to the bottle unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.


Cow’s milk:

•Only whole pasteurized milk will be served to children younger than 24 months unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider.

Solid food: Children will not be allowed to walk around with food, bottles, or cups.• Caregiver will communicate with children during mealtime.• When high chairs are used, caregivers will use safety straps.• Trays, seats, arms of highchair will be cleaned and sanitized before and after eating.• No more than three infants per caregiver will be fed at one time.• Commercially packaged baby food will be served from a bowl or cup and not directly from the container unless the entire container will be used for only one feeding.• Introduction of solid foods will begin between 4-6 months as indicated by the child’s nutritional and developmental needs after consulting family unless medically indicated by the child’s health care provider. Modification to infant food pattern (handout) will be provided in writing by child’s health care provider.• After six months children will be encouraged to self-feed depending on their skills in this area.• Food will be cut into ¼ inch pieces for finger feeding by children. Utensils will be offered to children who can use them.• Round, firm foods that might be a choking hazard such as but not limited to: hot dogs, whole grapes, peanuts, nuts, seeds, raw peas, dried fruit, popcorn, thickly spread peanut butter, and hard candy will not be served to children under the age of 3 years old.• Food will never be used as a reward or denied as punishment.

MATS/SHEETSDaytime sleep is important for kids during the preschool years. Included in the daily schedule, preschool students are encouraged to rest after their lunch hour for a period of 60-90 minutes. Upon registration, parents must purchase the sheets to cover the mat provided by the school to each student. Every Friday, the sheets are sent home for washing and must be returned by Monday morning. If the sheets are not received by the school before nap time or if the sheets are dirty, a new set will be given to the student and the cost will be added to the parent’s account. Please be aware that it is a health issue for the students to sleep in an uncovered mat.


FIELD TRIPSField trips are an integral part of our hands-on, experiential learning environment. We encourage VPK, kindergarten and elementary and middle school teachers (only students in those grade levels are allowed to participate in field trips) to plan field trips during the school year and summer that support and extend the thematic study in which the students are engaged.

All students must have a written parent permission form for each field trip. Children will never be taken on field trips when the weather conditions are hazardous; therefore, a field trip may be cancelled on a last minute notice. In most instances the place being visited and the hired bus will require a deposit or full payment in advance. Whenever possible, families will be reimbursed for the field trip expense. Students will ride the bus contracted to transport the students and teachers to the determined location. Parents are not permitted to remove their child from the group during the field trip experience.


ACTIVITIESThroughout the school year we bring to our center community and professional workers to represent and teach the children what they do. If you are interested in participating in this program, please let us know to incorporate your presentation in our curriculum. Please refer to the calendar for a list of the Special Activities in which parents and relatives are invited to participate throughout the school year.

PARTIES IN SCHOOL KLC provides the students with a busy schedule which does not permit for all students to celebrate their party at school. In order to ensure that your child is receiving the entirety of the program, birthday parties are not allowed at the school. Parents may bring in cupcakes or a small birthday cake to share with their child’s classmates. Please see the birthday party guidelines included in the registration packet.

HOLIDAYS / TEACHER PLANNING DAYHolidays will be studied and celebrated in the months that they occur and may include a variety of cultural and religious awareness events. We may have several celebrations in connection with holidays.

Parties take the place of little luncheons so that we can avoid feeding the children excessive sweets. We depend on your help at these parties. The school will be closed the following holidays:

Day before School Year StartsLabor Day Veteran's Day Thanksgiving Day after Thanksgiving Christmas Eve (Half Day) Christmas Day December 31 (Half Day) New Year's Day Martin L. King President's Day Good Friday Memorial Day

Independence Day




EMERGENCY PROCEDURESSCHOOL CLOSEDIn case of hurricane warning or other emergency condition, Kids Learning Center will follow the guidelines set forth by Dade County Public Schools. This information is announced on local radio and TV channels. Should a weather alert be issued, please pick up your child as soon as possible.

In the event the school is closed tuition fees will not be discontinued; upon returning to school all payments due must be paid. Regardless of the school being closed, Kids Learning Center continues to be responsible to meet its obligations in terms of overhead and fix expenses.

EMERGENCY EVACUATIONYour child’s safety is one of our major concerns; therefore, we need to be prepared for the unexpected. We hold monthly fire drills and extreme weather procedures to prepare us for the possibility. Under extreme circumstances we would need to evacuate the building. Depending on the situation, the local police will determine the location. Under no circumstances will parents be allowed to pick up their child at school during an evacuation period. Our goal is to evacuate the entire building safely. Please wait patiently for a phone call from our office staff telling you the location and procedure for picking up your child. The media is always helpful with disseminating information regarding evacuations and procedures as well. Students will only be released to the people identified on the emergency contact form. Please bring proper identification (a picture ID) when picking up your child. Keeping this in mind, please notify the office immediately when there is a change in home/cell phone numbers.

FIRE DRILL PROCEDUREWhen the fire alarm sounds, students are to move with their class quickly from the building in a quiet, orderly manner without running. Upon reaching the position from the building designated by the teacher, students should turn and face the building and listen to roll call. Fire drill routes are posted in each room.

FIRE EVACUATION Every month the school will conduct unannounced fire drills. The following are the steps to follow:

1. Teachers will keep the children calm and evacuate the classroom quickly. 2. Teachers will take with them their emergency list.3. Teachers will walk the children quickly to the playground through the

designated hallways.4. Each teacher and their group of students will stand as far away from the

building as possible.5. Each teacher will call roll and ensure that all the children under his/her care

are outside.6. If any child is missing, the administrator and/or the principal must be notified

immediately.7. The office staff will be positioned in key areas to supervise the effectiveness of

the drill.8. The office staff will time the drill and notify the administrator when everyone

has evacuated the building.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.459. The administrator will announce to the staff when they can return to their

classrooms or areas of responsibility.10. The office staff will provide the administrator with a list of violations.

11. The administrator will meet with the principal and the curriculum coordinator to discuss violations and practices to improve the effectiveness of the drill.

12. The curriculum coordinator will meet with the teachers to discuss violations and new procedures.

13. The administrator will meet with the office staff to discuss violations and new procedures.

The Director will designate someone to call the FIRE DEPARTMENT (Dial 911) in the event of a real fire.

NATURAL DISASTER PREPAREDNESSThe following steps are to be followed in case foreseeable disaster:

I. First Level of EmergencyA. Administrator will inform all teachers and staff members of the

emergency and advice each one to commence their responsibility in the emergency plan.

B. Administrator will contact the Computer Support Company to come to the school and secure all records kept in the main network computer and sure remote backup is in place.

C. Administrator will contact each parent in the event the children needed to be picked up.

II. Second Level of EmergencyA. Administrator will advise teachers when children will need to be

evacuated from the building.B. Teachers will assess the emergency and prepare the children

accordingly.C. Teachers will gather children’s belonging and prepare the children

to be picked up by the parents.D. As the children are picked up, teachers will assume responsibilities

to secure the center as follows:1. All students records kept in class must be secured in a locked

cabinet.2. All equipment, toys, and materials must be inside the

classroom.3. All computers must be turned off and covered with a large

plastic bag to protect them from water damage.4. All windows and doors must be properly secured.5. Teachers are responsible to acquire a list of the personnel

telephone number list to maintain themselves in contact with the administration and other employees.

E. Administration personnel will proceed to secure the office.1. All students and staff records must be filed under lock key.2. All computers’ records must be saved in a pen-drive and given

to the Director and a second one to the administrator.3. All computers must be turned off and covered with large plastic

bags to prevent water damage.4. All other essential equipment must be also covered with large

plastic bags to prevent water damage.KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg.46

5. All office personnel must take with them a list of all of the employees to maintain contact with each one of them throughout and after the period of emergency.

III. Third Level of EmergencyA. If the students cannot be picked up by their parents and cannot

leave the center, the administrator and principal will do a head count and regroup the classroom as needed. A maximum of 20 students per teacher inside an enclosed classroom.

B. Teachers and staff that have children of their own will be dismissed first, leaving a skeleton crew to take care of the remaining students.

C. The administrator will call 911 for assistance.D. The students will be feed with food available in the storage room

until they are able to go home.E. As the students are removed from the center, teachers and staff

will be dismissed in seniority order. Teachers and staff need and personal emergency may alter the order of dismissal as assessed by the Principal and the Administrator.

IV. Fourth Level of EmergencyA. In the event of fire, tornado, bomb threat, other circumstances that

may make the building unsafe, students and staff must evacuate the building.

B. Teachers will take with them their emergency list.C. Teachers will walk the children in a rush but orderly manner to the

playground.D. Each teacher and their group of students will stand as far away

from the building as possible.E. Each teacher will call roll and ensure that all the children under

his/her care are outside.F. If any child is missing, the administrator, the principal and the

emergency response unit (fire fighters, police, etc.) must be notified immediately.

G. All staff and office personnel will evacuate to the playground to support the teachers.

H. The secretary or assistant principal will take with them the emergency bag kept at the office.

I. If the emergency response unit, (fire fighters, police, etc.) does not allow the return to the building, all parents must be contacted to pick up their children.

J. Teachers may leave under the discretion of the administrator and principal after helping to secure the building.

K. Teachers will take with them any live animals residing in their classroom.

L. Administrator and Principal must ensure the building is secured before leaving the premises.


VIOLENT INCIDENTIn the event of a violent incident such as 1) gun attack, 2) aggressive customer, staff, student, 3) unauthorized invasion of the school, etc., teachers will be notified by the speakerphone of Code Red. All the teachers will try to evacuate through the second exit to the lobby in La Quinta Motel or will remain in the classroom until notified by the emergency response unit (police, fire fighters, etc.) that the Code Red has been

removed. Other school personnel will lock themselves in the kitchen or inside of one of the classrooms. If the violent incident occurs inside a classroom, the teacher will notify via speakerphone the office in order to receive the appropriate assistance.

SCHOOL PICTURESIndividual school pictures of the children will be taken in the fall. Class pictures will be taken in the spring. Our school makes this service available to you; however, you are under no obligation to purchase these pictures.

LOST AND FOUNDEvery effort will be made to help children keep track of their belongings at school. PLEASE LABEL EVERYTHING CLEARLY. Objects left in the school rooms and on the school grounds will be turned in to the office. Students are not to bring any personal items (such as Pokemon cards, pogs, cards, dolls, magazines, videos, DVD’s, games, books, toys, jewelry, pillow, pacifier, etc.) from home. For reasons of security and to prevent inappropriate objects in the school environment, preschoolers are not allowed to bring book-bags or any type of bags where they can conceal toys. Book-bags are only allowed for kindergarten and elementary students. Any unmarked items not claimed within a reasonable period of time, will be given to charity.

RECYCLE CENTER/WISH LISTThe annual registration fee covers the materials regularly used by the students during the school year. However, there may be instances in which a teacher may be planning a special activity or instructional project that may require different materials. In such instances, the teacher may post a wish list in their classroom. Parents are under no obligation to participate in the wish list. Please consider donating your child’s outgrown and used toys, books, puzzles, riding toys, etc., in good condition. We also love “dress-up” clothing, costume jewelry, old purses, etc. Our art center is always enhanced by yarn, fabric, trays, plastic bottle caps, empty thread spools, eye droppers, empty roll-on deodorant bottles, empty toilet paper rolls, egg cartons, wall paper books, old picture magazines, etc. Excess paper stock or computer paper makes great drawing paper. Use your imagination, we will use ours!


EXPULSION POLICY

Unfortunately, there are sometimes reasons we have to expel a child from our program either on a short term or permanent basis. We want you to know that we will do everything possible to work with the family of the child(ren) in order to prevent this policy from being enforced. The following are reasons we may have to expel or suspend a child from this center:

IMMEDIATE CAUSES FOR EXPULSION

The child is at risk of causing serious injury to other children or him/herself. Parent threatens physical or intimidating actions towards staff members. Parents exhibits verbal abuse to staff in front of enrolled children.

PARENTAL ACTIONS FOR CHILD’S EXPULSION

Failure to pay/habitual lateness in payments. Failure to complete required forms including the child’s immunization records. Habitual tardiness when picking up your child. Verbal abuse to staff.

CHILD’S ACTIONS FOR EXPULSION

Failure of child to adjust after a reasonable amount of time. Uncontrollable tantrums/angry outbursts. Ongoing physical or verbal abuse to staff or other children. Excessive biting.

Prior to expulsion, a parent will be called, and correspondence will be sent home indicating what the problem is, and every effort will be made by both the center and the parent to correct the problem. If, after one or two weeks, depending on the risk to other children’s welfare or safety, behavior does not improve, and the center finds that they can no longer accommodate the child, the parent will be asked to remove him/her. The parent will be given a minimum of one week’s notice to find another center to provide care for this child.

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg. 49THANK YOU

END OF PARENT HANDBOOK

KLCSD Parent Handbook Pg. 50

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