Handbook

Introduction

Welcome to Future Scholars Preschool, Founded in 1991. Over the past 31 years Future Scholars Preschool has supplied ultimate care to our children and families. In August of 2016, the center underwent many levels of renovations to update not only the facility but the equipment and procedures for exploring and creating. Moving forward with the same nurturing team of caregivers, our children make lasting friendships in an innovative learning environment where family satisfaction is priority. We look forward to continuing to provide a high quality childcare experience to the community.

Philosophy

Our philosophy incorporates a whole language and development approach to education through a center based curriculum. These centers offer: literacy, math and science, creative art and music, blocks and trains, and dramatic play. Throughout our innovative areas the children develop social skills as well as academics while building their confidence and self-esteem.

Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. provides an honest commitment to each child’s individual differences and an understanding that young children learn best when the learning is meaningful to them. Our learning and exploring is based on inspiring first hand experiences that are designed to foster a Love for Learning.

Our environment is enriching, encouraging and nurturing. We believe in promoting a healthy life style and a sense of peace and security in their daily surroundings. We encourage a positive outlook with a never ending desire to grow and achieve. Here our children experience an adventure in life and learning.

Admission & Tuition

A $50.00, non-refundable registration fee is needed to secure your child’s enrollment. School day includes: Operation from 7am-6pm with two healthy snacks. You are responsible year-round for the days you have registered for.

INFANTS ages 6 weekS+

  • 1 Day $66

  • 2 Days $132

  • 3 Days $198

  • 4 Day $264

  • 5 Days $330

Toddler ages 18 months+

  • 1 Day $57

  • 2 Days $114

  • 3 Days $171

  • 4 Days $228

  • 5 Days $285

Intro to Preschool Ages 3 & 4

  • 1 Day $58

  • 2 Days $116

  • 3 Days $174

  • 4 Days $232

  • 5 Days $290

Pre-Kindergarten, Age 5

  • 1 Day $58

  • 2 Days $116

  • 3 Days $174

  • 4 Days $232

  • 5 Days $290

Methods of Payment

Future Scholars Preschool accepts cash, personal checks, credit cards or money orders. We also accept Visa, MasterCard and American Express. If a check is returned to the bank, the parent will be charged an additional service fee of $35.00. After two returned checks, no personal checks will be accepted. Cash, certified checks or money orders orders will be the only forms of payment allowed. Future Scholars is a year-round center and no deduction in tuition is made for illness, vacations, holidays, center closings or summer. 

Policies

Termination Policy

Future Scholars Preschool has the right to terminate a child or family from the center if necessary.
The center leaves the discretion up to the directors for termination. The following reasons are included, but not limited to:

  • Lack of tuition payment

    1. Lack of updated physical examination form in child’s folder

    2. Lack of following through on Center Policies

    3. F.S.P. operates with a healthy family trust and relationship. Lack of maintaining this professionalism can result in family termination.

Illness Policy

Mildly Ill Children

The child will be kept in a quiet, supervised area. Food, drink and rest will be available upon request (liquids given more often). Play material will be made available to the child and indoor activity will be minimal (close monitoring will take place).

Illness Plan

Staff members shall be knowledgeable about the symptoms of childhood illnesses and be responsible for observing the children for illness. Any child with symptoms of a short term contagious illness shall be placed in a designated area away from the rest of the children, with continued visual and auditory supervision by staff. The parent/guardian will be notified immediately to remove the child from the center.

School Snow Policy

Future Scholars Preschool makes every effort to maintain operation during most weather conditions. In the event conditions have been labeled a state of emergency, the center will close for the safety of our children, their families, and our staff. In keeping with this policy, Future Scholars Preschool may opt to delay the opening of the center or close earlier in the afternoon. If we feel that conditions are not safe. All school closings, delays and updates, due to extreme weather conditions are posted on all RI television channels.

Center Guidelines

  • Tuition is due and payable year-round on the first day of each week the child is enrolled in the school regardless of attendance, i.e. sick days, vacation, holidays and center closings.

  • Adding days will not be allowed unless your account is at a current balance.

  • Any tuition payment received after the last day of the week will result in a $10.00 late fee. After two weeks of non-payment, a conference will be requested and your child’s secured slot will be at risk.

  • After two checks returned from the bank for non-sufficient funds payment must be made by money order, bank check or cash.

  • A child may be suspended or terminated due to lack of tuition payment.

  • No reduction in tuition is made for illness, vacations, holidays, center closings or other withdrawals.

  • You are responsible for the days you have registered for.

  • Due to staffing and the number of children allowed per day, we cannot allow for make-up days or switching of scheduled days.

Parent – Teacher Relationship

Future Scholars Preschool has an “Open Door Policy” so parents are welcome to visit the center at any time without any prior scheduling.

Monthly newsletters are available to keep parents informed of the center’s activities and are available on our website or at the front desk.

Parent conferences are also available upon request, and for your convenience, evening conferences may be scheduled.

Meals & Nutrition

Meals Overview

Diet is an important part of child’s development. Future Scholars Preschool Inc. serves two (2) nutritional snacks; a mid-morning snack and a mid-afternoon snack that is included in the tuition. We also serve a cold breakfast which includes cereal and whole milk for those children who arrive early. Breakfast is served between 7:00-8:00AM and the fee is $2.00.

Lunch time begins at 12:00 noon and ends approximately at 12:30pm. The children are required to bring their own lunch. In order to maintain a healthy diet, please have children bring a nutritious lunch and drink, and please do not allow them to bring candy, gums or an excessive amount of sweets to school. Please send drinks in sealed containers only: i/e juice boxes, juice pouches, milk boxes.

If food is prepared at home and sent to school in a microwavable container we are able to re-heat. Please no glass containers. Again, if there are any dietary requirements, allergies, etc., please note on the Pre-Admission History of Child form.

  • The Center supplies a nutritional breakfast of toast, cereal, and milk from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 a.m. upon request for a $2.00 charge.

  • An array of nutritional snacks cereal mix, craisins, veggies & dip, corn chips or pita bread and hummus and/or salsa & veggie sticks are served in the morning and the afternoon.

Suggested Meals

The following is a list of suggested meals children can bring in their own lunch.

Cold

  • Sandwiches

  • Carrot & Celery Sticks

  • Cheese & Crackers

  • Yogurt

  • Fruit

  • Hummus

  • Bagels

  • Sun butter & jelly

  • Salad

  • Apple Sauce

  • Jell-o

  • Pudding

  • Raisins

  • Rice cakes

  • Smoothies

  • Go-gurt

Hot

  • Soup

  • Stew

  • Pasta

  • Rice

  • Pizza

  • Fish Sticks

  • Pancakes

Serving Schedule

  • Breakfast: 7-8am

  • Lunch: 12pm

  • Snacks: 10am & 2:30pm

In order to maintain a healthy diet, please do not allow children to bring candy, gum, or an excessive amount of sweets to school.

Programs

We offer a safe and healthy environment with individual programs and with an emphasis on positive character building and self -esteem developing.

The center is equipped for Infants, Toddlers, Pre-Schoolers, and Pre-Kindergartners.

In the Infant Program, our staff is mature and nurturing as well as responsible and well trained for this developmental stage. The philosophy and purpose of the Infant program is to supply all the comforts of home. They receive lots of tender loving care and stimulation through activities designed specifically for 6 weeks to 18 months. The teachers follow each child’s individual daily schedule provided by the parent and they record the days’ events.

The philosophy and purpose of the Toddler Program is to foster social interaction and support independence through furthering self-help skills. An inviting, energetic atmosphere contributes to creative play. Our daily schedules offer structure, yet are flexible to the individual needs of the children. The toddler curriculum explores and challenges play, social interaction and character building.

The philosophy and purpose of the Pre-School Program is to foster social growth and lots of exploration. Challenge is shared between students and teachers to encourage motivation and introduce a commitment to learning. An extensively themed environment, with many opportunities to observe, research and self-express, offers an inspiring atmosphere for both growing and learning.

The philosophy and purpose of the Pre-Kindergarten Program is to prepare children socially, emotionally and academically for Kindergarten with use of Rhode Island guidelines. The center-based program promotes challenge and self-discipline and encourages self-expression and an eagerness to seek and gain knowledge.

Throughout these stages, children will form friendships and memories to take with them forever.

Curriculum

Our activities and room structure reflect our philosophy. Just as the social, emotional and cognitive development of a child overlaps and intertwines, so do the activities and arrangement of the room. Lesson plans and areas of the room are arranged as center based and are created so the child may interact with their environment independently or in a small group. The room also encourages independence and creativity, while preparing children for success, a passion for learning and strong tools for living a balanced life.

The children move freely throughout the room and may use the materials to meet their needs. Respect for each other and the environment are always encouraged. There is a strong focus on achievement and enthusiasm through team work and perseverance.

The center’s curriculum is designed for each child’s individual’s growth. Children are grouped according to age and ability. Daily activities aim to meet, as well as challenge each of their interests.

Center Based Classrooms

Our center based classrooms support children to grow socially, become self-aware, learn time management and self regulation. Children create their own goals and interests in the classroom. The classrooms are equipped with a multitude of tools and supplies to further curiosity, exploration and self expression. The centers include: math, science, literacy and arts and crafts. It’s taking the monthly theme to the highest level of exploration.

Soaring and Exploring Revolutionary Academics

Through our progressive activities, concrete learning opportunities, and support and encouragement from our teachers, your child will soar through creating their academic foundation. Themed monthly units define our focus and direction while allowing space for self-expression and creativity. Each themed unit is inclusive of STEAM (Science Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) activities and RIELDS (RI Early Learning Development Standards).

Toddler Daily Schedule

  • 7:00-9:20 a.m. Arrival and Free Play

    • Teachers set out a variety of toys and play equipment that will promote social interaction and gross and fine motor skills.

  • 9:20-9:30 a.m. Literacy

    • Children gather together on the magic carpet for story time. Children enjoy exploring books displayed in a bookshelf.

  • 9:30 - 10:00 a.m. Circle Time and Daily Project

    • Children sing ABC song, count to number 10, review colors and shapes. Children use a variety of materials in exploring and creating visual art.

  • 10:00- 10:30 a.m. Snack, Diaper Change/Potting

    • Children enjoy sitting together at the table for a healthy snack. While one teacher assists with diaper change and pottying, the other teacher sits with the children and engages in conversations.

  • 10:30-11:00 a.m. Outdoor Play

    • Free play, as well as, games directed by the teacher to encourage group play, socialization and gross motor skills.

  • 11:00 - 11:35 Sensory Activities

    • Sensory play provides opportunities to explore and learn through hand-on play that engages a child’s senses.

  • 11:35-11:50 p.m. Handwashing/Music and Movement

    • Children engage in singing seasonal songs, old favorites and fingerplays. Children experiment with sounds as they use different musical instruments.

  • 11:50- 12:30 p.m. Lunch

    A time to foster healthy eating habits and encourage table manners

  • 12:30 - 2:30 p.m. Rest-time

    • A time for relaxation and rejuvenation.

  • 2:30- 3:00 p.m. Snack, Diaper Changing/ Pottying

    • As the children wake up the teachers assist with diaper changes and pottying along with putting cots & blankets away in cubbies. Encourage children to sit together and explore the use of table manners and healthy eating habits.

  • 3:00-4:00 p.m. Outside Play

    • Free play, as well as, games directed by the teacher to encourage group play, socialization and gross motor skills.

  • 4:00-6:00 p.m. Table Activities/ Classroom Free Play

    • A variety of toys and manipulatives are set out to promote social interaction and motor skills.

Preschool Daily Schedule

  • 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. Arrival and Free Play

    • A variety of table toys are set out and centers are open to promote social interaction, exploration, and gross and fine motor skills. Children may sit together to enjoy breakfast.

  • 9:00 – 9:50 a.m. Circle Time and Centers

    • We discuss the calendar, weather, sing the ABC song, counting and letter recognition. We talk about the theme of the day. We split into our centers, writing math and science. Students explore math using games and manipulatives. Students learn about the world around them in our science center using a variety of tools. Our writing center offers writing and coloring tools for the children to practice writing letters, numbers, name writing and sight words.

  • 9:50-10:00 a.m. Bathroom and Hand Washing

  • 10:00-10:20 a.m. Snack

    • Children to sit together and explore the use of table manners and healthy eating habits.

  • 10:20-11:00 a.m. Outdoor Play - Literacy/ Music & Movement

    • Outdoor play includes free play and teacher directed activities .which encourage socialization and gross motor skills. A time to explore books and/or listen to a story fostering listening skills, focus and comprehension. Songs, finger plays and musical instruments address a willingness to experiment with and participate in creative arts.

  • 11:00- 11:45 a.m. Centers and Art

    • Students split into centers, along with table top games and activities. Children use a variety of art materials to create visual art.

  • 11:45 – 12:00 p.m. Bathroom and Handwashing

  • 12:00 – 12:30 p.m. Lunch

    • A time to foster healthy eating habits and encourage table manners.

  • 12:30 – 2:30 p.m. Rest Time

    • A time for relaxation and rejuvenation.

  • 2:30 -3:00 p.m. Bathroom, Hand Washing and Snack

    • As the children are waking up from nap they are asked to use the restroom. The children enjoy a healthy snack with the company of their friends.

  • 3:00 - 3:30 p.m. Outdoor Play

    • Teacher directed games and activities. Free Play

  • 3:30 - 6:00 p.m. Table Top Centers/ Free Play

    • Teacher prepared activities for the students to explore at their own pace. Teachers set out a variety of toys and play equipment that will promote social interactions and gross and fine motor skills.

Pre-Kindergarten Daily Schedule

  • 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. Arrival and Free Play

    • A wide variety of table top toys are available and centers are open to promote interactions,, exploration and gross and fine motor skills. Children may sit together to enjoy breakfast.

  • 9:00-9:50 a.m. Circle Time and Morning Centers

    • We begin with the calendar and weather; discuss our theme and letter of the week. We break into morning centers which include writing, math and science activities.

  • 9:50 - 10:00 a.m. Literacy and Handwashing

    • Children enjoy a story based on the theme of the week and discuss the main events of the story and it’s relationship to the monthly theme.

  • 10:00 - 10:10 a.m. Snack

    • We encourage children to sit together and explore the use of table manners and healthy eating habits.

  • 10:10 - 10:20 a.m. Table Top Toys

    • A time for children to engage in conversations and explore a variety of manipulatives to strengthen fine motor skills.

  • 10:20-11:00 a.m. Centers

    • Centers include writing, science exploration, math and art. The centers are equipped with materials related to the theme of the week. Children engage in conversations and exploration through each center.

  • 11:00 – 11:30 a.m. Outdoor Play

    • Free Play, as well as teacher directed games which encourages group play, socialization and gross motor skills.

  • 11:30-11:50 a.m. Rest Time Preparation and Handwashing

    • Teacher directed yoga, deep breathing meditation and book reading. Students bring out their blankets and pillows.

  • 11:50 – 12:30 p.m. Lunch

    • A time to foster healthy eating habits and encourage table manners.

  • 12:30-2:30 p.m. Rest Time

    • A time for relaxation and rejuvenation.

  • 2:30 – 3:00 p.m. Bathroom, Handwashing and Snack

    • As the children are waking up from nap they are asked to use the restroom. The children enjoy a healthy snack with the company of their friends.

  • 3:00 – 3:30 p.m. Free Play/Centers

    • Children engage in center based activities.

  • 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. Outdoor Play

    • Free play and teacher directed activities to encourage group play, socialization and gross motor skills.

  • 4:00 - 6:00 p.m. Table Top Toys/Free Play

    • Teacher prepared activities and games for the children to explore. Teachers set out a variety of toys and play materials which promote social interactions and gross and fine motor skills.

      School Schedule

    Future Scholars Preschool is open year round Childcare Center except for the listed legal holidays. Future Scholars Preschool is a full year operation.  Families are responsible for the position you secure for you child's attendance.

The center operates Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Please note the center closes promptly at 6:00 p.m. daily. All children MUST be picked up by this time.

Plan for a child not picked up by closing

There will be a $20.00 fee for any child picked up after 6:00 p.m. until 6:10 p.m. Then an additional $20.00 fee will be assessed per 10 min.

Excessive late pick-ups may result in termination from the center.

Staffing will include at least 2 people. Parents will be contacted at 6:05 p.m. if child is still present; if unable to reach them we will try the emergency contacts.

The child can only be released to designated people on child release form. A picture ID is needed for proper identification.

In the event 1 hour has passed and no parent or contact person is reached, the local police department will be contacted.

Holidays

Future Scholars Preschool closes in observation of the following holidays:

  • Labor Day

  • Thanksgiving Day

  • Christmas Eve (close at 1:00 p.m.)

  • Christmas Day December 25th

  • New Year’s Eve (close at 4:00 p.m.)

  • New Year’s Day

  • Memorial Day

  • Fourth of July

  • Columbus Day

  • Veterans Day

  • Juneteenth

  • Victory Day

Special Programs & Activities

Table Talk Program

A program designed to promote social skills, sharing, growing and self-confidence. Decorative boxes, that contain thought provoking questions, are provided for each classroom. During lunch time, teachers sit at the table with the children and pull questions from the box to create discussion and camaraderie. While fostering self-expression and self-confidence.

Treasured Time Program

Group interaction and socialization are important to the development of young children, but a little one-on-one can make them feel very special!

A weekly program that allows for “one-on-one” activities and time together with a staff member of your choice for a twenty minute session four times per month. The following is a list of activities the children can choose from on a weekly basis.

  • Clay Sculpting

  • Cooking Lesson

  • Baby Can Read

  • A Game

  • Nature Walks

  • Planting

  • Tutoring

  • Art Projects

Practice Makes Perfect

A monthly program consisting of one-on-one tutorials with a staff member of your choice that meets for a twenty minute session on a weekly basis. The following is a list of activities the children can choose from.

  • Flash Cards and Concrete Manipulatives

  • Phonics

  • Following Directions

  • Mazes, Word Finds and Cross Words

  • Reading Comprehension

  • Graphs

  • Time & Money

Special Activities

Special visitors and parties take place throughout the year to add to our enjoyment. Be sure to check the monthly newsletters and watch for posters at the front desk for details. Visitors may include:

  • Tiverton Fire Department

  • Tiverton Library

  • Spirit Week

  • Tiverton Police Department

  • Holiday Parties

  • Hairdo Day

  • Summer Camp

  • Parent Night Out

  • Mystery Reader

  • Twelve Days of Christmas

  • Butterfly Release

Birthdays

Birthdays are special at Future Scholars Preschool and each child’s birthday is acknowledged. The child’s name is posted on a birthday award in the classroom. Recognition is given at “circle time.” A “birthday bag” is available for classroom teachers to use. The bag includes celebratory activities, festive music and birthday costumes for the children to enjoy. We also offer complete pizza parties here at the center. Choose from your child’s favorite theme and leave the rest to us. Parties include pizza, dessert, goody bags, table and classroom decorations and more! Items maybe ordered ala carte or a complete package.

Clothing

It is advised that children wear play clothes to school due to the variety of activities they are involved in, both inside and outside daily. For safety reasons, sandals, clogs, crocs, flip/flops or slippery soled shoes (dress shoes) are not allowed. On the playground, the children are running and climbing, these above mentioned shoes are very dangerous. You’re more than welcome to keep an extra outfit in your child’s cubby for special occasions or for after-school plans.

The center recommends clothing that can be easily handled by the children to foster personal independence in the bathroom and for their comfort throughout the day.

All parents/guardians are required to bring a complete change of clothes, including underwear and socks, to be stored in their child’s cubby. Please label all children’s clothing with their complete name.

Parents/guardians of toddlers are to supply their child’s diapers and wipes as well as any other necessary items. Each child has a cubby supplied by the center for all personal items.

Items

Quiet time/Rest time is scheduled from 12:30-2:30pm. We require that parents have their child bring their own blanket and pillow. Again, please label these items with your child’s name.
We do not allow your child to bring any toys or games to school. However, your child may need to bring a transition item such as a blanket, stuffed animal, etc. that will help your child in the transition from home to school.

Discipline

Discipline is considered a very important part of a child’s education, and it is only through proper discipline that a child is able to learn appropriate from inappropriate.

At the center, discipline is administered through positive reinforcement, redirection, and reflection and by setting clear limits. Should a child exhibit inappropriate behavior, he/she is approached by a teacher to discuss the child’s behavior. If necessary, the child is then escorted to a designated “reflection” area in the classroom based on the age of the child – no longer than one minute per year. This allows the child to reflect on his/her actions before returning to the group. There is continuous supervision by staff during redirection.

  • Staff shall serve as a positive role model for the children in care.

  • Staff shall use positive methods in guiding children back on task, shall encourage appropriate behavior, and set clear limits and rules that children can understand.

  • Staff shall match their expectations with the children’s developing abilities and capabilities.

  • Staff shall praise the children’s accomplishments as well as their attempts at tasks.

  • Staff shall use positive, firm limit setting in situations where a child’s safety is at stake.

  • Staff shall assist children by redirecting them from inappropriate actions to activities that are more favorable.

  • Staff shall not hit the children or engage in any form of corporal punishment.

  • Children shall not be subjected to cruel or severe punishment, humiliation or verbal abuse.

  • Children shall not be deprived of meals or snacks as a form of discipline.

  • Children shall not be punished for soiling, wetting themselves or not using the toilet.

Health & Safety

  • It is required that each child have an updated physical examination and record of immunizations upon admission to the center. This material is kept confidential in each child’s file and must be updated annually, as mandated by the Department of Public Health.

  • There is a designated rest area away from the children for any child who is not feeling well. Any child diagnosed as having a communicable disease is not allowed to attend school and the parents are required to notify the directors immediately.

  • All children’s allergies will be posted in the kitchen and in each classroom. We will protect children from exposure to foods, chemicals, or other materials that may cause an allergic reaction.

  • Parent /guardian will be notified by phone of any minor injuries or incidents involving their child that requires first aid. An injury report will be maintained in the child’s file.

  • For the safety of the children, fire drills are held regularly. This is to demonstrate how to leave the building safely in case of fire or an emergency.

  • The center ensures that all equipment, items and surfaces are washed with disinfectant solution (bleach and water). The sanitizing solution is prepared daily. All such disinfectants are stored in a secure place and out of the reach of children.

  • All students must be accompanied by a parent/guardian upon arrival at the school. For safety purposes, please do not drop your child off at the door. Please be sure to sign in and sign out on the daily sheet.

  • Regarding student departure, the parent is required to fill out the Student Departure Form which authorizes persons who are allowed to bring the child home. This person or persons are required to present a picture I.D. to coincide with your authorization form. However, it is highly recommended that the staff personally meets the authorized person with the parent. Each parent must supply a photo of each person(s) to be placed in each child’s file. This also includes parents/guardians. It is mandatory that parents/guardians follow this policy before enrollment is accepted.

  • No medication (prescription or non-prescription) is allowed in a child’s backpack, lunch box or diaper bag, etc.

Accident Log Form

Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. provides an Accident Log Form in which any injury rendered by or to your child will be logged onto the form. The parent/guardian of the child will be given a copy after the form has been signed by the parent/guardian.

In the event of any injury needing first aid, (ice, bandages, anti-bacterial creams, etc.) will be found on the accident form as well as time, place, description of accident, and teachers present at the time.

Medication Log Form

Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. provides a Medication Authorization Form. If any child/ren is taking an antibiotic/medication during the hours they are attending preschool, the medication log MUST be signed DAILY. The form must be filled out completely and medication MUST be prescribed by a physician. Only when this form is completed can the staff administer medication. The medication label must include the child’s name, current date, name of medication, frequency of dosage, length of administration, storage instruction, and expiration date.

At the time of administering any medications, 2 staff members double check all the above mentioned and the 2 staff members will be present at the time of giving the medication to the child. Upon completion, the 2 staff members will sign their initials to the medication log form. These forms are located at the front of the preschool room. All medication is located in a secure area.

Medical Emergency Policy

In the event of a personal emergency, accident or illness the following procedure is followed:

  • Parent/guardian or emergency contact is called.

  • Situation is to be discussed in a calm, controlled manner.

  • In the event medical attention is needed:

    • 911 are called then parent/ guardian are instructed to meet us at the hospital.

    • Teacher accompanies child in ambulance.

    • Child is transported to closest local hospital. Child’s folder is brought for medical authorization.

    • The following emergency numbers are posted by the phones at all times:

      • Fire: 401-625-6740

      • Police: 401-625-6722

      • Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

      • St. Anne’s Hospital: 508-674-5600

Social Service Policy

ABUSE AND NEGLECT – All staff is mandated by law to report any signs of abuse to the DCYF hotline 1-800-742-4453

Abuse and Neglect include, but are not limited to the following:

  • PHYSICAL – Unexplained bruises, burns or broken bones.

  • SEXUAL – Torn, stained or bloody underwear, difficulty walking, sitting, pain, itching or bruises in the genital area. Frequent urinary or genital infections.

  • EMOTIONAL – Speech disorders, lapse in physical development, failure to thrive.

  • NEGLECT – Hunger, poor hygiene, continual lack of supervision, lack of medical or dental care, abandonment.

  • ABUSIVE RELATIONSHIPS – Parent & Child, Staff & Child, Child & Child.

All staff should report abuse/neglect immediately and then inform the center’s administration for recording purposes.

In the event of abuse or neglect by a staff member, the staff member shall be put on non-paid administrative leave immediately.

Staff will receive regular prevention and awareness trainings through monthly staff meetings and through the continuing education requirements. Staff may contact D.C.Y.F. for more information and scheduled trainings.

Babysitting Policy

This policy is for staff and parents who wish to make arrangements for babysitting outside of preschool hours.
We understand that some staff may be approached by parents who wish to employ them for babysitting duties outside of preschool hours, this may include taking the children home from preschool, bringing them into preschool in the morning, and nights and weekends.

At Future Scholars Preschool, we have a diligent recruitment procedure to ensure that we employ competent and professional staff members, and uphold our duty to safeguard children. Unique philosophy trainings, paid CPR, first aid and medical administration certification, regular motivational trainings and life coaching strategies are all part of our extensive hiring process. We also supply the manpower to retrieve criminal background checks, updated medical requirements and reference checks.

Future Scholars Preschool does not have control over the conduct of staff outside of their position of employment, and our duty to safeguard children as above does not extend to private arrangements.

Please Note:

  • Future Scholars Preschool will not be responsible for any private arrangements or agreements that are made between members of staff and parents/caregivers.

  • We will not take any responsibility for any health and safety issues, conduct, grievances, or any other claims arising out of the staff member’s private arrangements outside of preschool hours.

  • In the event that private babysitting duties are viewed to interfere with any aspect of the staff member’s employment, we may require that the agreement be terminated.

  • Confidentiality of children, other staff members and all clients must be adhered to and respected.

  • Parents should be aware that other adults accompanying a babysitter may not have the relevant Criminal Records Bureau clearance, and it may not be appropriate for them to care for children.

  • No member of staff will take a child from the setting unless they are a named person on the child’s record.

  • FSP centers do not condone families approaching staff for nannying or babysitting services during hours of operation. Intent to do so can result in termination from the center.

  • FSP Centers do not condone staff nannying or babysitting during hours of operation. Intent to do so can result in termination from the center.

Teacher Referral Procedure

In the event an ongoing challenge arises within a child emotionally, cognitively and/ or academically the teacher will reach out to the parents for their input. At this point the teacher will also inform administration and together a plan to move forward, with everyone in agreement, is set in place.

Picture Release

The staff at Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. wants to assure you that your child has memorable photos of this special time of their lives. At Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. pictures or videotaping may also be taken on special occasions as birthdays, holidays, etc. as well as academic assessment and review of child’s performances. Media publications may also be taken of our school for newspapers and our website. However, Future Scholars Preschool, Inc. wants to be certain that you authorize us to do so. Please sign the Picture Release Form.

Withdrawals

It is the parent’s responsibility to submit a written notice two weeks prior to their child’s withdrawal from the center. If no advanced written notification is received, parents are held responsible for their child’s contracted tuition fee for the two weeks.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Future Scholars Preschool does not discriminate on the basis of national origin, race, religion, cultural, heritage, political belief, marital status or disabilities.

Notification of Change in Policy

Parents will be notified, in writing, regarding any changes to policy. Notices will also be posted by the office.