Sikora Montessori Parent & Student Handbook

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Table of Contents  

● Introduction pg. 3 ● Statement of Purpose pg. 4 ● Objectives / Goals of Montessori Education pg.

4 ● Parent and Children’s Rights and

Nondiscrimination Policy pg. 5 ● Grievance Procedure pg. 5 ● Payment Procedures pg. 5

o Late Fees pg. 5 ● Contracts and Tuition pg. 6 ● Classroom Rules pg. 7 ● Discipline/Behavior Management pg. 8 ● Abuse and Neglect Reporting pg. 9 ● Enrollment Policy pg. 12

o Sole Legal Guardianship pg. 13 ● Arrivals & Departures pg. 13 ● Immunizations / Records / Illness pg. 14

o Periodicity Chart pg. 15 o Child Illness at the Center pg. 17

● Student Confidentiality Statement pg. 17 ● Confidentiality Agreement pg. 18 ● Food: Meal and Nutrition Program pg. 18 ● Emergency Evacuation and Sheltering

Procedures pg. 19 o Emergency Situation pg. 19 o Medical Emergencies pg. 19 o Fire pg. 19 o Tornado pg. 20 o Floods pg. 20 o Natural Hazards pg. 20 o Thunderstorms pg. 21 o Winter Storms/ Blizzards pg. 21 o Earthquake pg. 21 o Hurricane pg. 22 o Nuclear Emergency pg. 22 o Bomb Threats pg. 23 o Hazardous Materials (Chemical/ Gas

Spills) pg. 23 o Evacuation pg. 24 o Shelter-in-Place pg. 24 o Power Failure pg. 24

o Psychiatric Emergency pg. 25 o Missing Child pg. 25 o Child Abduction pg. 26 o Unauthorized or Suspicious Persons

pg. 26 ● Discharge Policies pg. 26 ● Communication Between Parents and Teachers

pg. 27 o Routine Communications pg. 27 o Parent out of town pg. 28 o Significant Changes pg. 28 o Parent’s right to report complaints

related to compliance with WV Code pg. 28

● Daily Procedures pg. 28 o Class Groups and Compositions pg. 28 o Daily Schedule pg. 29 o Before / after care pg. 29 o Snack pg. 29 o Lunch pg. 30 o Packed lunch policy pg. 30 o Enriched Curriculum pg. 31 o Calendar pg. 31 o Emergency Forms pg. 31 o Accidents pg. 31 o Lost and Found pg. 31 o Fire Drills pg. 32 o Snow days pg. 32 o Extra set of clothes pg. 32 o Clothing pg. 32 o Personal Belongings pg. 32 o Absences pg. 33 o Conferences pg. 33 o Licensing Regulations pg. 33 o Parent-Child Access pg. 33 o Parents’ Orientation pg. 34 o Field Trips pg. 34 o Right to report pg. 34 o Birthdays pg. 34 o Holidays pg. 34

● Liability Insurance Coverage pg. 35

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Dear Parents, The administrative staff and teachers welcome you and your child to Sikora Montessori School. Every school has philosophical, educational, fiscal, procedural and administrative policies in order to function smoothly. We hope this handbook answers many of your questions about those policies so that you and your child may fully enjoy that all-important first school experience. The atmosphere of the Montessori school promotes easy, open communication among parents, administrators, and teachers. We welcome your questions at any time. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Questions pertaining to your child's classroom should be directed to your child's teacher. 2 year old classroom – Ms. Jenn 3 year old classroom – Ms. Shannon 4 year old classroom – Mrs. Sikora Kindergarten – Ms. Sierra

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Statement of Purpose

Sikora Montessori School is dedicated to the Montessori philosophy and the Montessori method of education. This method facilitates the growth of inner discipline and eventually complex reasoning by allowing the free choices and organized use of didactic materials. Sikora Montessori is a preschool offering a variety of scheduling, depending on the age and needs of children. The Montessori system of education is based on the premise that in order to develop fully (physically, socially, intellectually and psychologically), the child must have freedom within a carefully structured environment. This structuring and control of the learning materials and environment is very important in a Montessori classroom and is under the control of a trained Montessori teacher. The teacher encourages the child to explore and discover, developing his/her creativity and enthusiasm for learning.

Objectives / Goals of Montessori Education To respect children as individuals who are different from each other and from adults. To establish an environment that will provide maximum age appropriate learning experiences. To observe the child so as to better satisfy his/her needs and interest. To foster the child's innate love for purposeful work.

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Parent and Children’s Rights and Nondiscrimination Policy:

Not to be harmed. Not to participate in practices that are disrespectful, degrading, dangerous, exploitive, intimidating, emotionally damaging, or physically harmful.

Not to be discriminated against by denying benefits, giving special advantages, or excluding them from programs or activities on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, language, ability, disability or status marital status, behavior, sexual orientation, cultural heritage or political beliefs.

Grievance Procedure

At Sikora Montessori we will provide an enjoyable safe environment for children as well as a great place for our staff. We encourage any questions, comments, or suggestions that you might have. If you ever have a concern please bring it to the director immediately. The director will do everything possible to alleviate/resolve the concern. If a staff member would like to file a complaint it must be brought to the attention of the director within three days, the director will respond within three days with a final answer. All unresolved grievances can be directed to the secretary of the Department of Health and Human Resources.

Payment Procedures Payment is NO later than the first of every month. If the first of the month falls on a Saturday or Sunday tuition must be paid by the previous Friday. If your account is not paid the first of every month you will incur a late fee of $35.00. You must give us 24 hours notice if you do not need to bring your child to the center on a day that he/she is scheduled to attend. Either way you are still required to pay for the day even though your child will not be in our care. A. Late Fees You are scheduled for childcare for the hours listed in your Contract and Rate Agreement and because we need to maintain adult/child ratios, children must be picked up and dropped off within the hours agreed upon at the time of enrollment. If you need to extend the arrival or departure time you must notify the director at least 24 hours in advance for approval and your request will be considered, as space is available. This does not apply to any time before opening or closing times.

Late fees will begin to be applied at 5:31 p.m. (closing time) or for half day drop-in; one minute after their 3 hour commitment is complete.

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1. $5.00 per child per every 5 minutes you are late. (Example: 1 to 5 minutes late, you owe $5.00 per child; 6 to 10 minutes late, you owe $10.00 per child, etc.) Calling to inform us that you will be unavoidably late does not waive your late fees. This is to assure that children are picked up on time. The Center will maintain strict adherence to the 5:30 p.m. closure time. 2. Late drop off does not constitute late pick up. Payments for late pick up are expected, in CASH, at the time of pick up. If cash payment is not made at this time, you will be given a bill due on or by your next regularly scheduled fee payment due date. These rules will be strictly enforced. Habitual tardiness may result in termination of services.

Late fees will be charged no matter who the person is conducting the pick-up.

Contracts and Tuition Contracts for new students are sent to parents when the child is admitted. Returning students are asked to place a deposit of $100.00 in March for the coming school year. Once the deadline has passed, any remaining openings are then made available to new students. A supply fee of $250.00 is charged once per year at the beginning of the school year, which covers all supplies for the school year. Tuition is charged on a school year calendar according to the payment agreed upon in the contract and according to the option chosen by the parent. Montessori is a tuition-based program. Days are not made up and refunds are not issued due to inclement weather, sickness, family vacations, or school holidays or breaks. All students who wish to take advantage of the specialty classes must pay the specialty class fee, (i.e. Oglebay Institute rate is $390.00 for a four eight week sessions, this one time fee covers the school year.)

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Classroom Rules

● All materials are for the child's use. In some cases, a material may be used freely, and at other times, only after it has been presented as a “lesson”. At all times, materials must be used with care.

● The child uses the material on a rug or table appropriate for the activity.

● After using the materials, the child returns them to the shelf in the condition in which he/she found them.

● A child may join another child who is using a specific piece of equipment only if he/she is invited by the first child to do so.

● No child is ever forced to share with another the materials, which he/she has first chosen.

● The children are never coerced into joining a group activity unless they wish to participate. A child may watch or engage in another activity quietly. He/she may be asked to “sit in”, if he/she does not wish to participate.

● Ground rules are set by each teacher in each classroom. Age appropriate measures are taken for rules that are broken.

● There will be no running permitted in the Center. ● Hitting, pushing, biting, grabbing, kicking, spitting, or pinching other children or adults will

NOT be allowed or tolerated. ● No standing or climbing on chairs, tables, or furniture. ● There will be no use of obscene, derogatory or disrespectful language. ● Children may not walk around the center with food, cups or bottles. ● Children are not permitted to lift and/or carry other children while in the center or on its

property. ● Respectful treatment of other people and all property, toys, and furniture is expected. ● Willful destruction of property will be charged to the parent at the cost to replace the item.

Toys are meant to be played with, and if they break it is most likely from wear and tear. Unless a child deliberately takes a toy and breaks it, you or your child will not be held accountable

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Sikora Montessori does NOT endorse, allow, or use CORPORAL PUNISHMENT as a means of

discipline. Discipline/Behavior Management

Sikora Montessori prohibits corporal punishment on its' premises. Discipline is a learning process. It should not be a negative emotion or physical punishment. Discipline will be handled in the following steps:

1. Guide the child/ren who are having problems to another area of activity; to make them feel like helpers.

2. Discuss the problem; suggest way to handle the situation in a positive to still be friends. 3. Work with the parents in determining the child's needs and the best methods for a positive

school experience. It is our aim for each child to develop self-discipline. This is done through the use of an ordered environment where each child learns how to be responsible for functioning in and caring in the environment. Suggested reading on the subject of discipline is “Discover of the Child” by Maria Montessori and “Practical Solutions to Practically Every Problem” by Steffen Saifer. Our philosophy is that the role of the adult in the environment is to guide the child. We achieve this through love, consistency, and firmness. We stress two main patterns of behavior: respect for other people and respect for property. The children are explained the rules of the childcare center frequently, so they are all familiar with the guidelines.

Please keep in mind that there WILL be disagreements between children. Young children, especially, who are not capable to communicate; have a hard time expressing their feelings. Sometimes they hit, act out or throw toys, etc. Although teaching children appropriate behavior is what we will be doing, remember that this behavior is normal in most cases.

The following methods of discipline will be used:

· Encourage children to solve problems themselves · Intervention and discussion · Re-direction to another play area · Loss of privileges · Time outs

If we feel there is a chronic behavioral issue that needs attention, we will let you know so we can work together to handle the problem. These types of behaviors might include such things as biting, use of bad language, chronic hitting, etc. Together, we will try to find a solution. You may be called to remove your child if his/her behavior prevents us from being able to properly care for the other

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children. If the problem continues, other arrangements for the care of the child will have to be made, for the safety and well being of all.

Abuse and Neglect Reporting Children’s Rights Children have the right:

Not to be harmed. Not to participate in practices that are disrespectful, degrading, dangerous, exploitive, intimidating, emotionally damaging, or physically harmful. Not to be discriminated against by denying benefits, giving special advantages, or excluding them from programs or activities on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, language, ability, or status, behavior, sexual orientation, or beliefs of their parents.

To have those with relevant knowledge (including staff and parents) in decision concerning the child.

To adaptive teaching strategies, learning environment and curriculum so that the child can fully benefit from the program.

To caregivers, teachers and staff who are familiar with the symptoms of child abuse, including physical, sexual, verbal, and emotional abuse, and neglect, and know and follow state laws and community procedures that protect them against abuse and neglect.

To caregivers, teachers and staff who will report to the appropriate agency if they have reasonable cause to suspect child abuse and then follow up to ensure proper procedures were followed. Appropriate, parents or guardians will be informed that the referral has been made.

To caregivers, teachers and staff who will assist another person with suspicion of abuse or neglect to take appropriate action.

To caregivers, Teachers and staff who will work to improve an agency who fails to protect an abused or neglected child.

To caregivers, teachers and staff when becoming aware of a practice or situation that endangers the health or safety of children, but has previously known to do so, will take the responsibility to inform those who can remedy the situation.

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Parent’s Rights Parents have the right to:

Be in the building at any time while their child is in care.

Be informed about program philosophy, policies, and personnel qualifications.

Be aware of why we teach the way we do.

Be informed of policy change and, when appropriate, be involved in policy change.

Be involved in significant decisions affecting their child.

Be informed of accidents involving their child, exposure to infectious disease that may result in infection, and occurrences that might result in emotional stress.

Be made aware of any research projects involving their child. Be able to withhold consent without penalty and know that no research will be aloud that would hinder the education, development and well-being of a child.

Be assured of confidentially and privacy except in the case of eminent danger to the child.

Be assured that the center will work openly with families in conflict without taking sides.

Be aware that the center will make appropriate use of professional and community resources and follow up referrals.

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REPORTING PROCEDURES FOR SUSPECTED CASES OF

CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT

1. Make every assurance that the child is safe. 2. Contact your director or immediate supervisor and WVDHHR with the report. Have factual

information available. (Who, What, When, Where, How) 3. If your supervisor is not available, contact any other administration official. 4. If the contact needs to be made at a time when your supervisor or other official is not

available, contact the appropriate supervisor utilizing the emergency call-down list. If necessary, CALL THE WVDHHR AND OTHER DESIGNATED PARTIES YOURSELF (see below).

5. Do not conduct your own investigation. 6. Do not violate confidentiality. 7. The incident must be documented in writing on the CRITICAL INCIDENT FORM (Who, What,

When, Where, How).

WV Department of Health and Human Resources (WVDHHR) 232-4411 Child Abuse Hotline 1-800-352-6513

WV State Police 238-1100 Ohio County Sheriff 234-3607 Wheeling City Police 234-3661

78-1-2;3.7 WV Licensing Definitions: Child Abuse and Neglect – Physical injury, mental or emotional injury, sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, the sale or attempted sale, or negligent treatment or maltreatment of a child by a parent, guardian, or custodial responsible for the child’s welfare.

The Sikora Montessori School employees are mandated reporters of suspected child abuse and neglect. The above information is the procedure our employees have been instructed to follow.

Sikora Montessori is required by law to report suspected child abuse and neglect to Child Protective Services.

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Enrollment Policy

1. The child must be within the chronological age guidelines based strictly on the child’s date of birth (an exception might be a premature infant.) We serve children from 2-6 years old. The center is open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. 5:30 p.m.

2. The child must be emotionally, developmentally, and medically ready to be separated from the custodial parent(s) or guardian(s).

3. The program and facility must meet the individual needs of the child and custodial parent(s), guardian(s), and family.

4. The custodial parent(s), guardian(s), must be willing to follow the policies and procedures of the Center.

5. Documentation stating that the child is free of communicable diseases and fully immunized according to the recommended guidelines of the West Virginia Office of Maternal and Child Heath must be provided by and signed by a licensed physician.

6. Children with disabilities are accepted; however, any specialized training related to the child’s medical and/or therapeutic needs must be arranged and completed by the parent(s), health consultant(s), and therapists prior to beginning care. The purpose of this meeting would be to determine the feasibility of reasonable accommodations for the child.

There are several mandatory forms to be completed and filed at Sikora Montessori least 1 week before we can assume the responsibility of childcare for your child. There will be no exceptions to the enrollment policy. This is to ensure your child will get the very best care possible from the Center and will follow the requirements for a state licensed childcare center. The forms are as follows:

● Student Application Form ● Signed Enrollment Contract ● Student Schedule Form ● Consent to Release Form ● Child Health Assessment Form including current immunization records ● Medical Emergency and Illness Information Form ● Photo, Video, and Audio Consent Agreement Form ● Copy of Birth certificate

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● Immunization ● DHHR – 2 copies, but signed in original form ● Proof of sole legal guardianship of child (if applicable)

You are required to keep us informed of any change in addresses, telephone numbers, and other pertinent information listed on any/all of the above forms. If you have any questions regarding the completion of these forms, please see the director.

All services are provided to families on a nondiscriminatory basis, without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, sex, income, religion, disability, marital status or sexual orientation.

Arrivals & Departures Children are to arrive clean and fed (unless arriving just before a mealtime). Please remember to sign-in at the registration location daily. It is normal for some children to have difficulty separating from parents, or cry when being dropped off. Please be very brief during drop-off times; the longer you prolong the departure the harder your leaving becomes for the child. A smile, cheerful good-bye kiss, and a reassuring word you will be back are typically all that is needed before your departure. In our experience, children are nearly always quick to get involved in play or activities as soon as parents are gone.

Please be very brief at pick-up times also. This is a time children will test two different authority figures (the parent and the provider), and all children will test to see if the rules still apply. An early arrival to pick up your child does not mean you may stay until the close of business. If you'd like to stay and visit please arrange this beforehand. Typically pick-up time needs to be kept brief.

When picking children up at the end of the day, you are asked to always come to the front door. Please remember to sign-out at the registration area daily. Drop-off and pick-up times are not good times to discuss problems or concerns. Little ears and minds hear and understand everything. We are not comfortable discussing children in the presence of anyone except their parents. Topics concerning a child’s daily activity or light-hearted discussion are acceptable, as well as any information on the child’s condition.

The Center procedure is to release the child only to his/her parents, guardian or someone else the parents designate. If someone other than the parent is to pick up the child, please notify the staff ahead of time in writing. If the person is NOT on the child’s designated list, we MUST have written permission to release your child to the new person, even if this is a one-time incident. Please inform emergency contacts, or people designated to pick up your child, if we do not know them, we will ask for photo identification. We do not mean to offend them. This measure is taken for your child's protection. We will not allow a child to leave with anybody other than a parent without

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a parent's written permission even if the person is listed as one of your designated pickup people.

Immunizations / Records/ Illness State law requires immunizations before they come to school unless prohibited by religious affiliation. Children with active cold symptoms - sniffles, coughs or sneezes - cannot be admitted. If your child has had a fever, his/her temperature must be normal for 24 hours before he/she returns to school. A child must be well enough to be able to participate in all aspects of the program in order to attend school. Should he/she become ill during the day, the parents will be notified and are expected to arrange for the child to picked up in one hour. Please notify the school if the child comes down with any communicable conditions, or will be absent for more than one day. Included in this handbook is the West Virginia Health Check Periodicity Chart.

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Child Illness at the Center Staff observes children daily and watches for changes that indicate injury, infestation or illness, and record changes in children's file. To safeguard each child's health, students may not come to school until 24 hours after the last case of vomiting, diarrhea, or a fever of 100.4 or greater. All of these symptoms must be gone for 24 hours without the benefit of medicine. Likewise, children with communicable diseases, (such as chicken pox, or strep throat) are to be kept at home. Parents are asked to notify the school in such cases so that other parents and school personnel can be notified as needed. The child may not return to school until a doctor has indicated that he/she may do so.

If the staff observes indications of illness or if a child is ill staff:

● Remove the child to a quiet area to rest comfortably under supervision; ● Takes the child's temperature and records it in the child's file (Staff does not use mercury

thermometers or rectal method / thermometers); ● Uses universal precautions as required; ● Contacts parents to assume responsibilities for the child; and ● Center informs parent and suggest parent consult a health care provider if child has a fever.

The center excludes a sick child from center:

● Immediately when a child has a serious communicable illness; ● When the illness prevents a child from participating in routine activities; and/or ● When the illness requires a greater need for care than the staff can provide.

If children become ill at school, parents will be called to pick up the child. Staff members cannot

treat any illness. Should your child require medication during the center's operating hours the parent may come to the center to administer the medication. The parents may also provide the center in writing of a designated person who will administer the medication. Sikora Montessori will administer medicine prescribed by a physician. For your child to receive this medication you must fill out the medication administration form, sign it, and tape the form to the original bottle of medicine to be locked up.

Student Confidentiality Statement All students’ records, financial and operating data of Sikora Montessori, LLC, and other information of a private or sensitive nature is considered confidential. Confidential information shall not be used or disclosed unless specific permission to do so has been obtained and granted by the privacy officer or designee. Applicable federal and state laws shall be followed to seek employee permission for disclosure. Examples of inappropriate disclosure include:

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● Discussing revealing confidential information to friends or family members. ● Discussing revealing confidential information to other coworkers or employees without a

legitimate need to know. The disclosure of a student's enrollment in Sikora Montessori School, LLC, without the parent/guardian consent, to an unauthorized party without a legitimate need to know may jeopardize confidentiality. Using student information for marketing purposes without the express permission from Sikora Montessori School, LLC. The unauthorized disclosure of confidential information can subject an individual and the individual's employer to liability. Disclosure of confidential information to unauthorized persons, or unauthorized access to, or misuse, theft, destruction, alteration, or sabotage of such information, may result in your immediate removal from the premises and/ or revocation of current and future visiting / working privileges of the individual and / or company, and may lead to legal action and / or a duty for you to mitigate damages.

Confidentiality Agreement I hereby acknowledge, by my signature on the handbook release statement that I understand that student's or any other confidential proprietary information of Sikora Montessori School, LLC, which I may see or hear or otherwise gain knowledge of in the course of my visit / work with Sikora Montessori School. LLC is to be kept confidential. This information shall not be disclosed to anyone unless specifically authorized by Sikora Montessori School LLC. The unauthorized use or disclosure of student information is grounds for possible immediate removal from the premises; revocation of all visiting / working privileges; legal action; and / or a duty to mitigate damages.

Food: Meal and Nutrition Program Should a child have a special dietary, this need will have to be disclosed to Sikora Montessori. These dietary needs will be confidential but shared with staff. See attachment to nutritional chart.

● Sikora Montessori will ensure that no child will go more than four hours without food / drink.

● The school provides a morning and afternoon snack.

● The school provides milk at lunch.

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● Sikora Montessori shall post menus full food served a minimum of one week in advance for

the parent to see.

● Sikora Montessori shall follow written menus as planned and write any changes on the posted menus.

● Sikora Montessori shall date menus and keep them on file for a minimum of two months.

● Sikora Montessori will provide drinking water to children and staff members and is freely accessible at all times to a child.

● All single service drinking cups are discarded after one use.

Emergency Evacuation and Sheltering Procedures Emergency Situation Is defined as any situation where the circumstances demand immediate action, usual Methods/practices to control situation have been exhausted with little success or a life threatening situation for children or staff. Medical Emergencies Staff should be prepared to initially respond to medical problems based on their training in CPR/First Aid. Prompt notification of emergency medical rescue is vital (call 911 if needed to dial for an outside line, otherwise call 911). Maintain current telephone list for medical emergencies and maintain a first aid kit. Fire In case of a fire, the building is to be evacuated according to the evacuation diagram and practice. The group should remain together and be sure that all are present and accounted for by checking your child count charts once outside of the building. Tornado Tornadoes occur with late spring and summer presenting conditions where tornadoes can form.

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Weather fronts that can produce tornadoes may also generate severe rain, wind and hail that can cause serious damage. A Tornado watch is a signal that more severe conditions may be expected and that a tornado is likely over a large area. A designated staff person should listen to the radio or TV to be aware of the situation. Tornado warnings mean that a tornado has been sighted, or is indicated on weather radar in a specific area and are to be taken seriously without unduly alarming the children. Each group is to proceed to an inner area of the building away from the doors and windows. The group should remain together and staff should be sure that all are present and accounted for. Floods Flooding may result from heavy precipitation and build over several days or occur rapidly in the form of flash floods. If evacuation procedures are recommended by local authorities, children will be taken to higher ground level and parents will be notified to pick their children up immediately. Staff should keep children inside the building, unless otherwise instructed, and listen to the local radio or television broadcast concerning the flooding situation. Sikora Montessori will observe the recommendations or local authorities in any flooding situation. Natural Hazards Natural hazard emergencies relate to conditions caused by weather, weather related effects, and geological events such as earthquakes. Severe Weather may be predicted over several days in advance in the case of hurricanes and winter storms or within a few hours or less for tornado and other wind, rain, or ice storms. Listening to weather forecasts and storm watch or warnings is critical to being prepared. The National Weather Service issues storm watch and warnings through commercial television, radio, cable (Weather Channel) and NOAA weather alert radios. Such announcements are carried over the Emergency Alert system on TV, radio, and NOAA radio. In general:

A. Severe Weather Watch means that conditions are present that could cause a weather emergency in the area mentioned.

B. Severe Weather Warning means that severe weather is expected and that precautions should be taken in the affected areas.

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Thunderstorms If you see or hear a thunderstorm coming and you are outside of the building, you will need to go inside a sturdy building. If you are unable to get inside, you need to hurry to low open space immediately. Crouch down and place your hands on your knees. Move away from tall things like trees, towers, fences, telephone lines, power lines or metal objects (these particular things attract lighting). If you are in water, go to land immediately. Lighting can cause electric appliances to become dangerous. Turn off the air conditioner and television and stay off of the telephone until the storm is over. Winter Storms/Blizzards In the event of a blizzard while the children are in our care at the program, the children’s safety and well-being will be the prime concern for the staff. If the parents cannot get to the center, a staff member will stay with them until they arrive. The staff will also provide a snack and dinner for the children if necessary.

Earthquake Minor earthquakes are common not unusual. There is some potential for more serious earthquakes. Damage to structures, and utilities and injury to people from falling debris can be expected.

● Assess your facility to reduce the potential for shelving, pictures, or heavy equipment to cause injury if shifted suddenly.

● Ensure that building and safety codes are followed during construction or renovations.

● Know where and how to shut off electricity, gas, and water service.

● Locate the safest locations in each room away from windows and potential falling objects.

● During an earthquake, take cover to protect from falling objects indoors and outside.

● Afterwards, when leaving the building, use stairways and avoid windows, skylights, and damaged utility lines.

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Hurricane Hurricane season lasts from June through November, but the period of August – September has seen the most hurricanes. Hurricanes generate winds from 74 to 160 miles per hour. Heavy rainfall may produce flooding inland, and tidal surge can damage coastal areas. Hurricanes may also trigger tornadoes.

● Monitor Hurricane Watch and Warnings

● Secure outside equipment

● Check status of battery powered radio, and alternate light sources.

● Remain indoors until storm passes.

● Prepare to evacuate if necessary. Move records, computers and other equipment to safer areas within the facility or move to another location.

● If necessary, evacuate children and staff to a more secure facility. Consider road and safety conditions before doing so.

● Provide information on where you have evacuated to for parents/guardians.

Nuclear Emergency In case of nuclear emergency, proceed to an inner area of the building. If an emergency involves a nuclear blast, have children and staff lie prone on the floor, don’t look at the blast, designate staff person to listen to the radio or TV to be aware of situation. The group should remain together and be sure that all are present and accounted for. Bomb Threats Calls of a threatening nature should be recorded as accurately as possible and recorded to the police. Depending on the nature of the call, immediate action should be taken to protect lives and property, including evacuation. A threat to personal safety should never be discounted as a hoax.

● Record threatening message carefully.

● Notify police immediately.

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● Take prudent response actions with safety in mind.

● Designate an assembly area nearby for evacuation purposes.

● Do not attempt to move a suspicious article, package, or letter.

● Report suspicious articles or communications to the director and authorities.

Hazardous Materials (Chemical/Gas Spills) Hazardous materials are substances that are flammable, combustible, explosive, toxic, noxious, corrosive, oxidization, an irritant or radioactive. A hazardous materials accident could occur at our facility such as a natural gas leak, spilling of a solvent, or on a roadway or factory or processor in the immediate area. If a hazardous materials accident occurs notify you fire department, and follow safety directions. Be prepared to isolate the immediate area, evacuate, or shelter-in-place. Shelter-in-place involves sealing windows, doorways, shutting off air intake systems to provide protection from airborne hazardous materials this could be directed in the event of suspicious mail of a hazardous materials spill near our facility. In the event the civil defense or a police agency orders an evacuation due to an accident involving hazardous materials, staff should follow the following directions of civil defense or police. Staff should do the following: Stay together and travel as a group and follow the directions of a designated staff person Evacuation In the event of an emergency requiring an evacuation, the child care will provide necessary provisions for the continued care until the children are picked up by the parents/guardians or an authorized individual. The local emergency management agency will assist with emergency support as needed. In a large-scale emergency, the Ohio County Emergency management Agency will coordinate support efforts with community and State agencies to assist where needed. The caregiver shall take with or perform the following:

● An accurate attendance list, child count chart, emergency cards

● Account for all children and staff

● Bring necessary medications/supplies located in the medicine box

● Infant and Preschool wings will bring emergency bags located in the breezeway

Please refer further to the Evacuation Procedures.

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Shelter-in-Place Shelter-in-place may be ordered to provide emergency protection in the event of a hazardous materials accident or other airborne threat. The public would be advised to remain indoors. Information from public safety officials at the scene or over the Emergency Alerting System (EAS) would advise the public concerning seeking shelter and for how long. Power Failure In the event of a power failure, director will determine if the failure is program based or covers a large area. The children will be kept inside if the power failure is due to downed power lines nearby. As soon as probable cause for power failure is located, the local power facility will be called for emergency service. The children must be kept calm and the staff should comfort any child showing signs of distress immediately. If weather conditions outside are such that proper heating or cooling will not be maintained at the center, the parents will be notified. The following will be considered when assessing operations during a loss or disruption of electrical power:

● Report loss of electrical power immediately

● Check circuit breakers or fuses at service panel

● Safe movement of children and staff to areas with natural light or emergency lighting.

● Impact on special needs children such as signaling devices and other equipment

● Refrigeration of food materials and ability to prepare meals.

● Operation of security smoke/fire detectors, sprinklers, ventilation, and telephone systems.

● Impact on overall care environment.

Psychiatric Emergency One staff member in the room should isolate the disturbed person away from the children into the outside hallway if possible. The remaining staff should call 911. In the event the disturbed person cannot be isolated, it is the job of the other staff to evacuate the room and then call 911. In the event of a psychiatric emergency staff would need to follow the following procedures:

● Pull blinds down ● Turn the lights out ● Go to a location in the room that is not visible by the door ● Keep the children as quiet as possible ● Remain calm and then wait for further instructions

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Missing Child The children are instructed to ask permission to leave the group for any reason and the staff are responsible for insuring their safe return. A staff person will always leave a room first as a leader and another staff person will be the last one out of the room to ensure that all children follow. Children going outside will follow the same procedure. If a staff person is alone with a group of children, he or she will keep their group together to ensure that all children are safe and accounted for. If a child can not be located after an extensive search, the program will notify the local police department for their assistance as well as the child’s parents. The child count chart must be used daily to account for each child before and after each time they leave an area and after transition times.

Child Abduction If a child is abducted while on a walk or from the building, staff is to contact 911 immediately and report that a child has been abducted and any identifying information to aid authorities. You are then to notify a supervisor and they will notify the family. If abduction occurs at the center, staff is to notify 911 and report the child abduction. Staff will then secure the room and search the building. Supervision is then notified and they will notify the family. Unauthorized or Suspicious Persons Establish a procedure of identifying, and responding to an unauthorized or suspicious person near the facility or on the grounds. This should include screening the person, reporting to management and/or the police under certain conditions. If any information is retained on sexual offender’s record of information, it will be shared with the staff members.

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Discharge Policies

Sikora Montessori and staff are committed to working with children and their families so that each child’s experience is positive and rewarding. When circumstances prevent a child’s needs from being met at the center or when a child’s behavior is having a consistently negative effect on the well-being and development of other children, the child’s enrollment may need to be terminated. We will then need to schedule a conference with the parent/guardian, teacher, and director of child care services. The center may also terminate enrollment under the following conditions:

Failure to provide enrollment required forms

Non-payment of tuition and or fees

Consistent Absenteeism

Non-compliance with the center’s policies and procedures

Unwillingness to work with the center staff on issues relating to the child

Failure to pay full amount due in required payment timelines

Lack of parental cooperation

Failure of child to adjust to the child care after a reasonable amount of time

Physical or verbal abuse of any person or property by parent, guardian or designated contact

Our inability to meet the child's needs

Lack of compliance with handbook regulations

Serious illness of child

False information given by parent either verbally or in writing. Continued failure to give advance notice for changes in enrollment days or hours

We appreciate as much advance notice as possible when terminating, and will give the same courtesy in return. You are required to give two-weeks written notice when you decide to terminate childcare.

We reserve the right to give written notice of immediate termination where there are extreme. Circumstances that affect the wellbeing of the Center or other children in attendance

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If you decide to withdraw your child from the childcare center, you will need to fill out a Withdrawal form from the director. This form needs to be filled out two weeks prior to your child’s last day of enrollment. You will also need to clean out your child’s cubby on their last day. Any items that are left behind will only be kept for one month. After this time period, all unclaimed items will be thrown away.

Communication Between Parents and Teachers Routine Communications Carpool times are hectic for children, parents and teachers. Loose change and verbal messages can be lost or forgotten before school even begins. To help, put all money, checks and messages in an envelope addressed to the appropriate teacher or staff member and give the envelope to the teacher at the door. The money will then go to the right place and the written communication will not be forgotten. A teacher places notes, informational flyers, and all other communication in the child's hanging folder. Please be sure to check your child's hanging folder EVERY night for communication. We will also check the hanging folder in the morning for any communication from home. Because significant changes in a child's life can affect his/her classroom performance and social and emotional behavior, parents are strongly encouraged to inform the student's teacher about instances of family illness, death, an impending move, a new baby, or any other significant change in the child's life. By communicating this information, teachers and staff can be sensitive of particular situations and offer support in the school environment. A parent communication form can be found on the website (sikoramontessori.org) to aid in this process. Parent out of town Parents and guardians are requested to inform the school whenever they both will be out of town and to leave the name and number of the person who will be in charge of the children, and if possible, the number at which the parents can be reached in case of an emergency. Sikora Montessori will admit service equally without regard to Race, Color, National Origin, Gender, or Religion or Sexual Orientation. Significant Changes Please notify the schools if there is any change in address, phone number, emergency information, or family status.

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Parent’s right to report complaints related to compliance with WV Code The center shall inform the parent of his or her right to report to the Secretary any complaints related to compliance with the provisions of West Virginia Code 49-2B-1 et seq. and the requirements of this rule.

Daily Procedures Class Groups and Compositions Parents have several options where registering their child (it is best to talk over these options with a teacher before deciding);

5 all day sessions 4 all day sessions 3 all day sessions

● Kindergarten

In addition to the regular Montessori classes, a separate a class is held for the Kindergarten children 3 sessions a week. This class focuses on lessons for the older child including printing, reading and math concepts. The type of atmosphere will make the transition to first grade a smooth process. The class is referred to as “Montessori Kindergarten”. According to West Virginia law, a child must be five years of age on or before September 1 of the year

of enrollment to be eligible to enter public school Kindergarten. Daily Schedule Children should arrive at school anytime between 8:00 am and 8:15 am Transportation is the responsibility of the parents. A form will be given to the parents before school begins requesting the names of persons who are authorized to pick up their child. On the consent to release form we need an address and a phone number for every authorized person to pick up your child. A copy of the photo ID is required. If anyone other than those listed is to pick up their child on a particular day, the parent MUST write a note authorizing such change. When a parent drops off / picks up their child they will need to be brought into the building to be signed in or out.

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Before / after care Before and after care is available for students. The time from 7:30 am to 8:00 am is before care and 3:00 pm until 5:30 pm for aftercare. Parents MUST pick their children up on time. Parents who do not pick students up by 5:30 pm will be charged an additional fee as previously referenced in this manual. Students who arrive at school before 8:00 am MUST be taken to before care. Students who are not picked up by 3:00 pm are automatically sent to after care. Snack Snack is provided for the child during the morning and the afternoon sessions. Lunch Only children who are enrolled all day may eat lunch at school. All children will have a lunch brought in. If your child will arrive after 8:30 am it is very important to call the school (304-905-8453) to tell us if you need a hot lunch. If you fail to call you will be charged for a hot lunch, ($3.50). Packed lunch policy

The state mandates the following:

A center may choose to allow a child to bring meals and snacks to the center if:

Providing parents and staff have nutritional guidelines in this rule;

Providing to parents and staff guidelines on the proper preparation and storage of food so that foods do not present a cross-contamination threat;

Providing to parents and staff a list of foods the center will not permit, including known food allergens

to other children;

ANY and ALL nut products including foods prepared or processed in a facility that processes or prepares food with nuts

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If your child's packed lunch does not meet the nutritional guidelines the child will be provided a hot

lunch and will be charged $3.50.

That the food prepared from an unapproved source is for consumption by the child and not to be shared with other children or the group.

Each child’s meal or snack is clearly labeled with the child’s first and last names and the date it was

brought to the center;

No additional food preparation is required by the center; We do not have refrigeration or microwave for the children's lunch

The center provides a meal or snack when the parent fails to provide a meal or snack from home at

the parent’s expense

The center includes children with food allergies in the group during meal or snack time and closely supervises all children under school age during meal or snack time to prevent the

cross-contamination of food or accidental ingestion of a food allergy.

The center has milk available at meal times in accordance with meal patterns described in of this rule. Enriched Curriculum In addition to our regular Montessori curriculum, our children do have additional enrichment activities available. Art and music are integrated throughout the curriculum. Specialty classes are in art, French, nature, multicultural, piano, yoga, and strings lessons. Calendar A calendar is drawn up for each school year and copies are distributed to each family. Please save calendar for future reference. Appointments will be made in conjunction with the Director and a Teacher. Emergency Forms Every student is required to have an Emergency Form on file so that school will be able to contact the proper person in the case of an accident or emergency.

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Accidents In the event of an accident, the school will attempt to notify a parent immediately, an important reason to have emergency information and phone numbers on file in the school. If a parent cannot be reached, the instructions will be followed according to the student's Emergency Form. Lost and Found Unidentified and or abandoned articles of clothing will be placed in a box located in the school. They will remain there for a reasonable time, and if unclaimed, be donated to charity. Fire Drills Schools are required by law to hold periodic fire drills. When a fire alarm sounds, whether for a planned drill or in the event of an actual fire or emergency, each students should exit the building promptly and silently in single file using the designated exit route. Students are to stand with their class in silence until role is taken. They will be escorted back to the classroom by a teacher or assistant. Snow days Parents should listen to the local TV (WTRF) in the case of inclement weather for information about school closings. Please so not call the school regarding closings. Parents must use their own judgment to access road conditions in their own area; we do not want parents or students to put themselves at risk. Should an early dismissal be necessary, the school will contact parents using the emergency numbers provided. Parents may always come to pick up their students at their discretion. Extra set of clothes We request that every child have a complete set if extra clothes in case of mishaps. Please send the extra labeled clothing in on the first day of school. Clothing In addition to being comfortable and weather appropriate, school clothing should be easy for the

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child to manage alone, be completely washable, and labeled with the child's name. Please NO sandals, flip flops, or jewelry. Sikora Montessori will not be held responsible for any jewelry that is lost stolen or broken. Jewelry is a safety hazard to your child. If jewelry is worn to school it will be removed and place in your child's backpack. If it does not make it home we will not be held responsible. Personal Belongings Each child will be given and assigned cubbie for storage of clothing, personal items and daily supplies. Multiple days’ worth of clothing and supplies can be left as long as they fit into the designated cubbie space. Absolutely NO toys should be brought from home. The children have a very difficult time sharing their own special toys and this causes many unnecessary arguments and tantrums. Exceptions being their “lovey" for nap time (which will be put up until naptime) and items for Show and Tell and other special activity days. We are not responsible for any loss or breakage of your child's personal items. All personal items must be clearly marked with the child's name. Books may be brought to school at anytime. All books must be labeled with child's name. If the book is to be shared with other students for the day, it can go on the library shelf. Absences We ask that parents call the school if their child will be absent for any reason. We do not make up school days missed due to illness. Conferences Conferences are scheduled upon request. Please allow at least one day notice when scheduling as appointment. All conferences are confidential conversations between the parent, teacher and administrator. Cooperation and understanding are basic ingredients of the Montessori philosophy. Licensing Regulations Parents have access to the child care Licensing Regulations in available in the office.

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Parent-Child Access Please know that any time your child is in our care you will be allowed access to your child. Parents' Orientation Each fall, one evening is scheduled to acquaint parents with the philosophy and materials of a Montessori classroom. This meeting is a good opportunity to learn the four basic areas in the classroom and ask about materials. It is also an opportunity to meet other parents and teachers. Field Trips Before we go on field trips Sikora Montessori will inform parents prior to field trip and a required permission slip. Right to report You have the right to report to the director any complaints. Birthdays We enjoy celebrating each child's birthday with a very simple celebration at school. Holidays The Montessori philosophy focuses on the students' environment and interruptions to the normal routine are kept to a minimum. As a result, the program does NOT celebrate nor hold parties for holidays (e.g. Halloween – no costumes, masks, or treat bags, etc.). Anything done related to a holiday is integrated into the curriculum and environment and/or personalized for the child's heritage and culture.

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Liability Insurance Coverage

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Recommended Immunization Schedule

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Checklist for Orientation Meeting  

Child’s Name _________________________________________________  

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I have been given, received, and discussed the following policies of Sikora Montessori School (in the Parent School Handbook) with the school director.   

o Statement of purpose o Statement of compliance with civil rights laws o Policy regarding prohibition of corporal punishment o Policies concerning behavior management o Reporting of child abuse and neglect o Policy concerning sole legal guardianship of a child o Immunization requirements-- objections to treatment o West Virginia Health Check Periodicity Chart o Policies regarding communicable diseases o Medication administration: procedures and forms o Confidentiality and information disclosure o Meal and nutrition policy o Emergency evacuation and sheltering procedures o Discharge policies o Parent communication forms and procedures for parent/teacher communications o Parent’s right to report complaints related to compliance with West Virginia code o School access when child is in attendance o Liability insurance coverage

  

____________________________________ Date ___/___/___ Parent Signature 

 ____________________________________ Date ___/___/___ 

Parent Signature  ____________________________________ Date ___/___/___ 

Director’s Signature  

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