Customer Manual 2020 2021 - Excell Preparatory Center
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2020 – 2021 Customer Manual CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE This document (including any attachments) contains information that may be confidential. Unless you are the intended recipient (or authorized to receive for the intended recipient), you may not read, print, retain, use, copy, distribute or disclose to anyone the message or any information contained in the message. If you have received this document in error, please advise the sender and destroy all copies of the original document (including any attachments). 07/2020
WELCOME Dear Excell Prep Students and Parents: It is with much anticipation and excitement that I welcome you to a new standard of Christ-like EXCELLence. As we begin this new relationship, we ask you to review this important manual that has been especially prepared for Excell parents. It contains pertinent information about what Excell Prep has to offer as well as our expectations for our parents. Please take time to discuss the contents of this manual and then save it for handy reference later. Excell will use a combination of curriculums. Pinnacle Curriculum focuses on utilizing "developmentally appropriate practices". Therefore, the curriculum in each classroom varies year to year depending on the interest and the developmental level of the enrolled children. Teachers design some of the curriculum units based around the interests of the children in their group and then embed within those units the basic skills that each child is developmentally ready to embrace. ABEKA curriculum will also be used to introduce and build a foundation in academic skills such as Bible, phonics and pre-math skills. Spanish and computers will also be offered to each child. However, curriculum for young children is much broader than just the academics, as we know them. The other areas that the curriculum addresses are equally important. These areas include independence skills, attention span, social skills, self-confidence and self-control. The Center also offers a very language rich environment, providing children with a strong foundation in vocabulary, conversation skills and literacy. The Behavior Management section of this Manual addresses the behavioral expectations that we have for all of our students. At Excell, we put additional focus on Behavior Management because we believe it is crucial to the success of our program. Each year these expectations are stressed with the children throughout the year. This also is important information to reinforce with your children. I know this will be another wonderful relationship for our Associates and students here at Excell. Together, we can achieve great things for our students, because we ‘Strive not to equal, but to Excel.” Thank you for giving Excell the opportunity to serve you. Yours in Christ, Elizabeth H. Nelson Elizabeth H. Nelson Executive Director and President Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME ................................................................................................... 2 THE PARENT CONTRACT ................................................................................................ 5 A. INTRODUCTORY POLICIES ............................................................................ 6 YOUR CUSTOMER MANUAL STATEMENT ............................................................................ 6 OUR MISSION STATEMENT .............................................................................................. 6 OUR SERVICE & INCLUSION PHILOSOPHY.......................................................................... 6 OUR MOTTO ................................................................................................................ 7 OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH ............................................................................................. 7 OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE PROMISE .................................................................................. 7 SERVICES OFFERED....................................................................................................... 8 OPERATIONAL HOURS AND MONTHS ................................................................................ 8 CURRICULUM STATEMENT .............................................................................................. 8 POSTED NOTICES ......................................................................................................... 9 CONFIDENTIALITY......................................................................................................... 9 B. CUSTOMER OBLIGATIONS ........................................................................... 10 PARENTAL CODE OF CONDUCT ..................................................................................... 10 SCHOOL UNIFORM/DRESS CODE MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS .......................................... 10 APPLICATION PACKET ................................................................................................. 11 2020 – 2021 TUITION RATES ...................................................................................... 11 TUITION GUIDELINES ............................................................................................ 13 DISCOUNTS......................................................................................................... 13 PENALTIES AND FEES ............................................................................................ 14 LATE PICKUP POLICIES .......................................................................................... 14 TERMINATION/WITHDRAWAL ................................................................................. 15 STUDENT VACATION (INFANT – PREK).......................................................................... 15 EXCELL HOLIDAYS /CLOSURES...................................................................................... 16 BIRTHDAYS ................................................................................................................ 16 ILLNESS ..................................................................................................................... 17 MEDICATION GUIDELINES ............................................................................................ 17 DAILY SIGN IN & OUT .................................................................................................. 18 SUPPLY LISTS ............................................................................................................. 19 PARKING LOT GUIDELINES ............................................................................................ 19 VISITATION................................................................................................................ 19 PARENT/FAMILY INVOLVEMENT .................................................................................... 19 C. OPERATIONAL POLICIES ............................................................................ 20 SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES................................................................................................ 20 HEALTH & SAFETY PRACTICES ...................................................................................... 20 PROGRAM PARTICULARS .............................................................................................. 21 DAILY/WEEKLY/PROGRESS REPORTS ............................................................................. 21 MEALS AND SNACKS .................................................................................................... 21 SAMPLE MENU ........................................................................................................... 22 INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS ............................................................................... 22 EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ........................................................................................... 23 MEDICAL EMERGENCIES .............................................................................................. 23 VIDEO AND/OR PHOTOGRAPHS ..................................................................................... 23 REPORTS TO PARENTS .................................................................................................. 23 INJURY REPORTS .................................................................................................... 23 INCIDENT REPORTS ................................................................................................ 24 Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 3
BEHAVIOR REPORTS ................................................................................................ 24 BEHAVIOR MANAGEMENT & CORRECTION POLICY............................................................ 24 BITING POLICY ........................................................................................................... 25 PARENT COMMUNICATIONS .......................................................................................... 26 D. EDUCATIONAL POLICIES ............................................................................ 27 SCHOOL RULES FOR 3K & ABOVE ................................................................................... 27 TRANSITIONS FOR CHILDREN ......................................................................................... 28 ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................... 28 GRADING SCALE, PROGRESS REPORTS AND REPORT CARDS ............................................... 29 GRADING SCALE ......................................................................................................... 29 REPORT CARDS/PROGRESS REPORTS .............................................................................. 29 PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES .................................................................................. 29 ENRICHMENT ACTIVITIES ............................................................................................. 30 GRADUATION EXERCISES.............................................................................................. 30 TRANSPORTATION AND FIELDTRIP POLICIES ..................................................................... 31 E. CUSTOMER POLICY ACCEPTANCE ................................................................. 32 F. PHOTOGRAPHY/SOCIAL MEDIA CONSENT ....................................................... 33 Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 4
THE PARENT CONTRACT Excell Preparatory Center, LLC agrees to provide child care for (Name of child) _____________________ on (days of the week)___________________________________, ____________a.m. to _______________ p.m. from (month) _______________ to ______________. My child will participate in the following meal plan (Check applicable meals and/or snacks) Breakfast Lunch 3PM snack 6PM Snack I/We pledge to support Excell Preparatory Center, LLC. in its efforts to serve the community and will immediately bring any concerns (good or bad) to the attention of management. I/We understand and agree that it is my/our responsibility to read and familiarize myself with the provisions of the Customer Manual and to abide by the rules, policies and standards set forth in this Manual. I/We agree to work with Excell Staff in their efforts to provide educational and child care services for my/our child, within the guidelines established by the school and governing agencies. I/We will provide a written authorization (which includes date, name of child, name of medication, prescription number, dosage, date and time to be given) to Excell Preparatory Center before medication is dispensed to my/our child. Medicine will be in the original container with the child’s name marked on it. Excell Preparatory Center reserves the right of refusal to dispense any medication it is not comfortable with administering. I/We acknowledge that it is my responsibility to keep my child’s records current to reflect any significant changes as they occur, e.g. telephone numbers, work location, emergency contacts, child’s physicians, child’s health status, infant feeding plans and immunization records, etc. I/We authorize the child care facility to obtain emergency medical care for my child when I am not available. Excell Preparatory Center agrees to keep parents informed of any incidents, including illnesses, injuries, adverse reactions to medications, exposure to communicable diseases, which involve my/our child Excell Preparatory Center agrees to obtain written authorization from me/us before my/our child participates in routine transportation, field trips, special activities away from the facility, and water related activities occurring in water more than two (2) feet deep. Excell Preparatory Center will not allow children to enter or leave the facility without being escorted by the parents(s), person authorized by parents(s), or facility personnel. Excell Preparatory Center will advise me of my child’s progress and issues relating to my child’s care as well as any individual practices concerning my child’s special needs. I also understand that my participation is encouraged in facility activities. The Registration Fee is NON-REFUNDABLE and does not apply toward tuition. This contract is valid through the end of the current academic period (mid-August to mid-August for Infants through 4K, mid-August to end of May for K5-1st), and end of May through beginning of August for Empowerment Camp. NOTE: A copy of this contract was included in your Registration Packet. That copy must be signed by the parent and a Director. It will be maintained in the student file. A new contract should be signed each year at re-enrollment. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 5
A. INTRODUCTORY POLICIES YOUR CUSTOMER MANUAL STATEMENT This Parent Manual (the “Manual”) is designed to familiarize you with the policies and procedures at Excell Preparatory Center, LLC (the “Company”). Parents are required to read, understand and comply with the provisions of this Manual. Circumstances will require that the policies and practices described in this Manual change from time to time. Such modifications will be in writing, will specifically reference this Manual and must be authorized in writing by the President of the Company or a duly authorized representative of the Company. The Company will attempt to provide Parents with notification of such changes when they occur. No statements or representations can in any way change or alter the provisions of this Manual. Parents are required to comply with the provisions of this Manual. After reviewing it, please sign the acknowledgement form at the end of the Manual. OUR MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Excell Preparatory Center is to educate and train young children academically, spiritually, mentally and socially by aggressively preparing our children for the next level of development. Excell will use developmentally appropriate practices while building self-esteem, self-help skills, and confidence in a nurturing loving environment. The classroom is a mini-society and teaching should reflect and establish the skills and talents necessary for each child to reach his/her full potential, while feeling loved and secure, and provide avenues for future success in the larger technological, international society. Our teaching will reflect a high regard for each child's uniqueness with respect and understanding of societal and cultural diversity. This is done with sensitive, caring, professionally trained staff working in partnership with Parents and families. OUR SERVICE & INCLUSION PHILOSOPHY Excell will accomplish our Mission by working together as a cohesive unit with Parents, students and other Associates. Our Associates’ top priority is to serve our customers just as Jesus served us. We will serve with humility and sincerity. Excell believes that providing EXCELLent service to our Customer (the Parent and the child) in all aspects is vital to the success of all parties involved, the teacher, the Parent, the child and the Center. We will provide more support to Parents in the area of behavior management and will provide more focused guidance in the emotional and physical development of the child. The Center admits children from all walks of life and our Christian based curriculum recognizes and celebrates multi-cultural diversity. Inclusion Excell’s Early Childhood Education Program believes that children of all ability levels are entitled to the same opportunities for participation, acceptance and belonging in childcare. We will make every reasonable accommodation to encourage full and active participation of all children in our program based on his/her individual capabilities and needs. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 6
If your child has an identified special need, please share that information with us. Also provide techniques that you use at home that might prove beneficial in your child’s transition into our program. OUR MOTTO Strive not to equal, but to excel. OUR STATEMENT OF FAITH We believe the Bible to be the inspired, authoritative, and infallible Word of God. (II Timothy 3:16) We believe that there is one God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (I John 5:4-6) We believe in the deity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless Life, in His vicarious and atoning death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, and in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory. (I Corinthians 15:3; I Peter 2:21-30; John 3:16) We believe that for the salvation of lost and sinful man, regeneration by the Holy Spirit is absolutely essential. (Romans 3:21-30; Galatians 4:4-7) We believe the redemptive work of Christ on the cross provides healing for body, mind, and spirit in answer to believing prayer. (Isaiah 53:5; 1 Peter 2:24; James 5:14-16) We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit who indwells every believer and operates in all believers in the power and gifts of the Spirit, manifesting them as He wills. (John 14:16; Acts 1:5- 8; Acts 2:2-4; 1 Corinthians 12:14; Galatians 5:22) We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost-they that are saved unto the resurrection of life and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation. (John 5:24, 28-29) We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ and seek community together to "become more and more in every way like Christ who is the head of His body, the Church."(Ephesians 4:16) OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE PROMISE Excell Promises: To honor your role as a parent and to partner with you in the care and development of your child. That you will feel completely confident and reassured when you leave your child with us. That you will know that we value your child as a unique individual to be nurtured, protected, and respected at all times. That you will know that committed and dedicated educators are caring for your child. That you will watch your child develop a love of learning and a rich imagination. That you will see your child develop strong bonds with our teachers and other children. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 7
That you will share in the joy of your child's experiences in our center through regular communication. That you can expect us to listen carefully and respond quickly to any questions or concerns. That you will know that it is our privilege to serve your family. SERVICES OFFERED Excell Prep will provide services to the following age groups: • Infants 6 weeks through Pre-K • Kindergarten through 1st Grade • Before and Afterschool • Afterschool Enrichments • Summer Empowerment Program OPERATIONAL HOURS AND MONTHS The Center’s normal operating schedule is: q January through December* q Monday through Friday q 6:30am to 6:30pm Eastern Standard Time Infants – 4 year old 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. Year Round Before School 6:30 a.m. – 8:00 a. m August through May Excell School Aged Day -Program 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. August through May * After School – Excell Students 3:00 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (Excell) August through May After School – Outside Students 2:15 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. (others) August through May (up to age 14) Empowerment Program - May through August 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m. (up to age 14) - And School Closings *With the exception of holiday closings. CURRICULUM STATEMENT Excell Prep will utilize a blend of two excellent curriculums; A Beka Book, known for its reading and Bible components and Pinnacle, known for its developmentally appropriate practices. Kindergarten and above will use strictly A Beka Book curriculum. Infants through 2 years will utilize Pinnacle, 3K & 4K will utilize a combination of Pinnacle and A Beka Book. Both curriculums have proven to include the latest materials and methods in keeping with modern and traditional techniques. A Beka Book curriculum has a strong technological foundation designed to introduce children to the computer age. These materials and methods combined have evolved into an accelerated learning program. It compares to the highest models of other private schools curriculums, in that it prepares students academically in an advanced program of instruction. It also, presents a greater level of mastery in language, mathematical concepts, and science and computer skills at an earlier age than most public schools. Pinnacle Curriculum is an early childhood curriculum designed to engage children in developmentally appropriate activities that adhere to NAEYC guidelines. It offers clearly stated Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 8
learning objectives to help facilitate learning in all domains with flexible programming to accommodate varied learning styles. It utilizes carefully selected themes that capture children’s interest. Its interactive activities help children develop a love for learning while they are growing, playing, and having fun. POSTED NOTICES The following notices are posted in the lobby for your viewing at any time: Center License Copy of Bright From the Start Rules Center Evaluation Report Communicable Disease Chart Statement of Parental Access Names of Persons in Charge Current Weekly Menu Emergency Plans for Severe Weather and Fire Statement of Visitors CONFIDENTIALITY Unless we receive your written consent, information regarding your child will not be released, with the exception of that required by our regulatory and partnering agencies. All records concerning children at our program are confidential. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 9
B. CUSTOMER OBLIGATIONS PARENTAL CODE OF CONDUCT Excell’s vision is to portray a professional and respectful environment. As Excell strives for excellence, it is crucial that the parents enrolled in our program play a part in this journey. Parental behavior and appearance an important aspect that can have a positive impact on the school environment. By agreeing to this code of conduct, parents are acknowledging that their behavior and/or appearance are important in their child’s development at Excell and their outlook on society. Listed below are parental behaviors that are expected from all parents: • Positive behavior toward teachers and other parents • Handle concerns respectfully • Obey Excell’s policy and procedures • Be presentable in appearance (no revealing clothing, pajamas, hair rollers, or other items that would not be acceptable in a professional environment). • Have your child to school on time (unless excused absence or tardiness) Should a parent (or a guest of a parent) deliberately ignore their responsibilities as outlined in this code of conduct agreement, the parent and their child can be dismissed from the program. SCHOOL UNIFORM/DRESS CODE MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS Students in classes 3K and above are required to wear uniforms. The uniform attire is listed below. Our preferred online vendor for uniforms is Excell’s French Toast website, https://www.frenchtoastschoolbox.com/schools/excell-preparatory-center-QS5XWNN. Uniforms samples will be available during certain weeks at Excell for sizing purposes prior to ordering. Items can also be found at various uniform locations, such as In Sessions Uniforms. The school colors are silver, burgundy and white. Students at Excell Prep (3K and above) are required to wear uniforms as outlined below. All items must be legitimate uniform style attire. No cargo pants allowed. Monogramming is preferred, but not required. CLOTHING ITEM ACCEPTABLE COLOR GIRLS: Skirts, skorts, jumpers, Excell plaid (large print). Solid colors: burgundy, gray, black, & dresses khaki. Khaki skirts and skorts only. No khaki jumpers or dresses please. BOTTOMS: Pants, shorts, skirts Gray, black, burgundy and khaki. Khaki is an alternate color only. or skorts Solid colors only. TOPS: Blouses and shirts White, black, burgundy, or gray. No collarless shirts. Turtle necks are allowed. Solid colors only Ties, Sweaters, Vests Burgundy/gray/white/black/Excell plaid (large print) (OPTIONAL) Socks Burgundy, white, gray, black, khaki Shoes Solid black only. Solid Black tennis shoes are allowed. No open toed shoes allowed.* School T-shirt Fridays (with uniform bottom) and fieldtrips only. Jeans Jeans are allowed on fieldtrip days only Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 10
. . . . dress code continued on next page ¨ Sweaters worn in the building during the day must adhere to uniform attire. ¨ Friday is Spirit Day. Students should wear school t-shirt and uniform bottoms, not jeans. Jeans are allowed for fieldtrip days only. ¨ *For safety reasons, closed toes shoes must be worn by all students, even during summer months. ¨ Male students are not allowed to wear earrings. ¨ No other visible body piercing or tattoos are permitted for any students. ¨ Hair beads/small barrettes are not permitted for children in the Nursery Zone (Infants – 2 years old). They can easily be swallowed and can get stuck in nostrils and ears. APPLICATION PACKET The following forms and documents are required for a valid student admission: ¨ Application Packet (provided by Excell) which includes: o Completed application form signed by parent or guardian o A parent contract signed by the parent o Signed parent manual agreement (receipt confirmation) o Written consent for child to receive medical treatment o Signed Behavior Management & Correction Policy Agreement. o A signed completed Infant Feeding Plan (For Infants only) o Infant Affidavit (For Infants Only) o Electronic Funds Transfer form and brochure o Income Eligibility Form (Food Program Requirement) o WIC Letter ¨ Complete Record of Immunizations to include Immunization Certificate (Form 3231) for all students (required prior to enrollment) ¨ Ear, Eye, Dental and Nutrition Screening Form (DHR Form 3300) for students Pre-K and above (once upon initial enrollment). ¨ A copy of a certified Birth Certificate for all students (required once at the time of enrollment) Please be advised that your application is incomplete if all documents are not provided. Your registration will be voided, and the registration fee is non-refundable. PRE-REGISTRATION PROCESS Pre-registration is open in the spring of each year prior to the upcoming school year. Parents or guardians will be required to pay the non-refundable registration fee at the time of pre-registration to reserve a slot for the upcoming year. Activity fees (for 3K and above) are due BEFORE the first day of school each year. Activity fees are refundable on a prorated basis. 2020 – 2021 TUITION RATES *No additional charge for breakfast, lunch and snack. **Annual Activity Fee: Includes fieldtrips and class parties for the months of Sept. thru May only. NOTE: ALL RECURRING FEES ARE COLLECTED THROUGH EFT TRANSMISSION ONLY Nursery (6 weeks to 2 year old) Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $125.00 Annually **Activity Fee Not applicable *Tuition Fees: Infants {6 weeks to 1 year old} $185.00 per week 1-year-old $175.00 per week 2 year old $170.00 per week Drop-In Rate {Upon Availability} $40.00 per day Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 11
Drop-In Registration Fee $40.00 per year Preschool (3K) Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $150.00 Annually **Activity Fee (Due July each year – See Calendar for exact date) $100.00 Annually *Tuition Fees: $165.00 per week NOTE: Fieldtrips for 3K classes start in January of the current school year. Pre-Kindergarten (4K) Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $150.00 Annually **Activity Fee (Due July each year – See Calendar for exact date) $160.00 Annually *Tuition Fees $160.00 per week Academy (5K – 1ST Grade) Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $150.00 Annually **Activity Fee (Due July each year – See Calendar for exact date) $160.00 Annually *Tuition Fees: $155.00 per week Book Fees (Due July each year – See Calendar for exact date) 5K $200.00 1st Grade $300.00 Extended Day Empowerment Program (Excell’s School-Aged Students) Annual Registration Fee None Required Extended Day Program $25.00 per week (6:30am–8:00am & 3:00pm–6:30pm) *All Day Rate (Empowerment Camp) $25.00 per day *After School Drop In Rate $15.00 per day Before/Afterschool Empowerment Program (Excell’s Regular Dekalb County After School Students) Non-Refundable Registration Fee: $50.00 per year Tuition Fees: Before/After School $85.00 per week (6:30am–7:30am & 2:30pm–6:30pm) *All Day Rate (Empowerment Camp) $25.00 per day Before/Afterschool Empowerment Program (Drop in School-Age Students) Non-Refundable Drop In Registration Fee $25.00 per year Tuition Fees: *All Day Rate (Empowerment Camp) $25.00 per day *After School Drop In Rate $15.00 per day Summer Empowerment Program (5 through 12 Year Old) Annual Non-Refundable Registration Fee $75.00 per year **Activity Fee (June & July) (Due 1 week of camp) st $150.00 one - time *Tuition Fees $100.00 per week • All Fieldtrips are included in the Activity Fee. • There will be a minimum of 2 fieldtrips per week. • On-site lunch will be provided. • Bag lunches are required for some fieldtrips. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 12
TUITION GUIDELINES To reduce administrative costs, EXCELL COLLECTS ALL PAYMENTS VIA AN AUTOMATIC SECURE ELECTRONIC FUNDING TRANSMISSION (EFT) PROCESS. NO EXCEPTIONS. Customers can choose to use a checking account, savings account, or credit card for this process. Funds will be debited at midnight for the effective due date as noted below. The cost to provide service is calculated on an annual basis and then divided equally over the total weeks in the contract period. Once a contract is signed, customers will be expected to make full payment for each week for the duration of their contract (unless they terminate the contract early). Contracts for Infants through Pre-K are year-round, August to July, and August through May for Kindergarten and 1st grade. Hold weeks are weeks that the student is not in attendance. Payment is required for hold weeks as well. No prorating of fees will be applied for partial weeks when the parent decides not to bring the child to the Center for any reason including when the child is ill and cannot attend the Center. Tuition Payment Guidelines q Tuition is paid in advance of service being rendered and is therefore due on Monday of each week or the 1st of each month. 1. Weekly payments are drafted on Monday of each week. 2. Monthly payments are drafted on the first day of each month. q Activity fees are due before the first day of attendance each school year. q No grace period is allowed. NO EXCEPTIONS. q No additional discounts are given. NO EXCEPTIONS. DISCOUNTS The following discounts are applicable at the time of enrollment and continues as long as the account is in current standing. The discounts only apply to tuition fees. q A 5% discount is given for additional children. The 5% discount is applied to the lower rates. The highest rate tuition is not discounted. q A 5% discount is given for Customers paying on a monthly basis for all children in one family. q Only one discount per child is allowed. q No monthly discounts are allowed for Summer Empowerment Camp because most families do not have continuous enrollment during the summer months. q Each family will receive a Referral Discount of $50.00 for each student they refer that enrolls in the program. The referring parents name must be referenced on the initial Enrollment application. Referred student must be enrolled for 3 months and in good standing to qualify for the discount. The discount will be used to reduce tuition for one week at the end of the three months. q The discounts will be forfeited if the account is delinquent for more than 5 days. q Selection of a payment cycle is allowed upon initial enrollment, January 1, or at the start of the school year. If discount privileges are lost, they can only be regained at one of these intervals. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 13
PENALTIES AND FEES Manual Processing Fees For efficiency, accuracy and safety reasons, Excell utilizes the EFT process to collect all payments. A manual processing fee of $10.00 will be charged for each payment that is processed outside of the EFT process. Late Fees A late fee of $10 per day is charged for each day that tuition is not received. The late fee is initiated on Monday at close of business and each day thereafter until paid. The student will not be permitted to return to school on Wednesday of the week in question if fees are not paid by close of business on Tuesday. Insufficient Funds A $40.00 charge will be assessed for any insufficient funds notice plus an additional late fee of $10.00 as noted above. All payment for insufficient funds must be made by cashier’s check. Delinquent Account Penalties All accounts should be at a zero balance after the current week’s payment is posted. Accounts that do not zero out on Monday by close of business for your billing cycle or by close of business on the 1st if paying monthly are considered delinquent accounts. Repeat offenders are subject to the following penalties: • Forfeiture of all discounts • Denial of enrichment, graduation participation • Denial of attendance - if not made current upon request • Immediate termination of repeat delinquency offenders • Forfeiture of future enrollment Court Fees Any court or attorney fees associated with the collection of fees will be the responsibility of the Parents. LATE PICKUP POLICIES Children must be picked up by 3:00 p.m. (for Academy Students not enrolled in afterschool) or 6:30 p.m. for all other students. There is no grace period. Late fees are assessed at 3:01pm or 6:31p.m. The late fees charted below are applicable per child. q Pick-ups between 3:00 pm & 3:15 pm $15 q Pick-ups between 3:15 pm & 3:30 pm $50 q Pick-ups after 3:30 pm $100 q Pick-ups between 6:30 pm and 6:45 pm $15 q Pick-ups between 6:45 pm and 7:00 pm $50 q Pick-ups after 7:00 pm $100 The system will automatically calculate the late fees and apply to the parent’s account. The fees will be automatically collected on the next drafting date. It is Excell’s desire to close the center promptly at 6:30pm each night. We do not look favorably upon having to charge late fees and even less favorable on staying late. Therefore, parents who routinely abuse pick-up times are in violation of their contract and could be terminated. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 14
TERMINATION/WITHDRAWAL Parent Termination: Parents must notify Excell Preparatory Center in writing at least 14 calendar days prior to withdrawal of their child. Registration fees will not be refunded. Tuition fees must be paid in full through the date of withdrawal. The Activity fee is refundable upon withdrawal on a prorated basis (applied to outstanding balance first). Mutual Parental/Center Termination: Should Parents and Management agree that the placement of the child is inappropriate, enrollment will be terminated. Registration fees will not be refunded. Advance tuition payment will be refunded. The Activity fee is refundable upon withdrawal on a prorated basis (applied to outstanding balance first). Center Termination: Termination of enrollment by the Center may occur if the needs of the individual child cannot be served. Registration fees will not be refunded. Advance tuition payments will be refunded. The Activity fee is refundable upon withdrawal on a prorated basis (applied to outstanding balance first). A two-week notice shall be given to the Parents. All information pertinent to the circumstances will be documented. Termination of enrollment may occur due to one or more of the following reasons: 1) Nonpayment of tuition. 2) Failure to submit the required enrollment and health information forms. 3) Failure to observe rules relating to arrival and departure of a child. 4) Child is unable to function within the framework of the program or consistently displays inappropriate behavior. Certain behaviors are totally unacceptable because they either cause harm or are disrespectful to others. These behaviors include but are not limited to biting, kicking, disrespecting an adult, using profanity, spitting, causing injury to others or destruction of school property. 5) Failure to fulfill the terms of expectations specified in the Manual. 6) Lack of Parent cooperation. STUDENT VACATION (INFANT – PREK) All pre-school students (Infants – 4K) are entitled to one-week vacation after one year of continued enrollment, and one week yearly upon re-enrollment. Tuition will be waived for this period. Regulations are as follows: 1. The account must be current with a zero balance. 2. Parents may choose to have their child attend the Center for this week at no cost. 3. Parents may remove the child from the Center while retaining their slot in the classroom at no cost. 4. Vacation must be taken in 5 consecutive days and within the academic year in which it is earned. 5. Unused vacation time cannot be carried and will be forfeited if not taken. 6. The Center requires two weeks written notification of a pending vacation. In extreme/emergency circumstances and at the discretion of management, vacation time can be advanced (prior to the one year mark). Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 15
EXCELL HOLIDAYS /CLOSURES Excell Preparatory Center recognizes several holidays throughout the year. The actual days closed will be reflected on the school calendar each year. New Year’s Day (days closed will vary depending on what day the 1st falls on) ¨ Martin Luther King’s Birthday ¨ Good Friday ¨ 2- day Spring Break (Based on Dekalb County’s School Calendar – Closed Thursday and Friday only) ¨ Memorial Day Holiday ¨ Juneteenth Observance ¨ Fourth of July (days closed will vary depending on what day the 4th falls on) ¨ 2-day Teacher Planning Days (2 days before start of school each year) ¨ Labor Day ¨ Thanksgiving Day ¨ Day After Thanksgiving ¨ Christmas Eve ¨ Christmas Day (days closed will vary depending on what day Christmas falls on) Excell will exalt Christ in all its functions. Please be aware that Excell does not recognize Halloween in any way. Absolutely NO Halloween paraphernalia is permitted in the Center. This includes Halloween costumes, goodie bags, cookies, cupcakes, decorations, etc. Parents are prohibited from bringing or sending banned items to school. The Center conducts a Hallelujah Celebration to provide the children with a Godly alternative. BIRTHDAYS Each student’s birthday* will be recognized via the EZ-Care2 sign in system and once monthly by their class. Teachers will sponsor a party monthly in recognition of birthdays that occurred that month and students will receive a Happy Birthday certificate from Excell. Birthday parties may be held in conjunction with other activities related to school or academic functions, example C for cupcake party. Parents are welcome to attend the party and/or bring store purchased treats (no homemade items please). Because Excell will recognize student’s birthday with a party at the end of each month, parents are asked to conduct individual, more personalized party away from the center if they choose to do so. Excell will provide treats and a clown or character to entertain the children for each party. Because of possible choking hazards, balloons are not allowed in the Center. *Birthday parties are not conducted for Infants. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 16
ILLNESS Children will not be allowed to attend or remain at Excell Preparatory Center if he/she exhibits symptoms for exclusion within a 24-hour period prior to child’s admittance back to school. If the child is unable to participate in normal daily activities as scheduled, the child will not be allowed into the center. A written doctor’s permission is required before a child can be re-admitted to the Center. A. SYMPTOMS FOR EXCLUSION: Children should be observed for the following symptoms. These symptoms may indicate a highly contagious condition. 1. Fever of 101 degrees F° or higher 2. Diarrhea (three or more watery stools within 24 hours) 3. Vomiting on two or more occasions during a 24 period 4. Ringworm 5. A draining rash 6. Eye discharge or Pinkeye 7. Lice or Nits 8. Flu 9. Severe cough 10. Yellowish skin or eyes 11. A severe cold 12. Rapid or labored breathing 13. Too tired or ill to participate in normal activities B. SCREENING: Associates will visually screen children as they arrive at the facility. If a child exhibits signs of illness, it will be determined if the symptoms require exclusion from the class until remedied. C. CHILDREN ILLNESS: In the event a child becomes ill and needs to be picked up, the teacher will notify the parent and the child will be separated from the rest of the children until a parent arrives. Parents are to promptly make arrangements to have their child picked up WITHIN TWO HOURS OF BEING NOTIFIED. The Center is held accountable to protect the health and well-being of all children in the Center. One sick child could have an adverse effect on other children. Sick children shall be moved to a quiet area away from other children where the child shall be supervised and provided the necessary attention. D. ILLNESS REPORTS: Every illness will be recorded on a monthly health report. Serious illnesses will be reported to the Department of Social and Health Services (D.S.H.S). E. STAFF ILLNESS: Associates who display signs of contagious disease (or have symptoms of a fever or diarrhea) will not be allowed to report to work. They will be replaced by a qualified substitute until their return. F. COMMUNICABLE DISEASES: All parents will be made aware of any reported cases in the Center. A report of all communicable diseases must also be filed with the local Health Department. MEDICATION GUIDELINES While Excell Associates are here to assist whenever possible, we encourage Parents to administer medications before and/or after school hours when feasible. Excell will administer medication under the following conditions: A. TIMES: Medications will be dispensed at 11:00am and 3:00pm ONLY. B. CONSENT: Parents are required to complete a Guide for Authorization for Medication Form for each different medication that has to be given. C. PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION: All prescription medication must be in its original container and properly labeled with the child’s full name, date prescription was filled, Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 17
medication expiration date, and legible instructions for administration, such as manufacture’s instruction or prescription label. D. ADVERSE REACTIONS: Once a child is given medication they will be supervised closely for a period of time. Noticeable adverse reactions to prescribed medications will be documented and handled as an emergency. E. NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION: The following drug classifications will be administered with written Parental consent. Only dosages, duration, and method of administration specified on the manufacturer’s label for the age or weight of the child needing medication will be administered. The following is a list of acceptable non- prescribed medication: Ø Anti-itching ointments or lotions, intended specifically to relieve itching Ø Diaper ointments and powders intended specifically for the use in the diaper area of the child Ø Sun screen F. UNLISTED NON-PRESCRIPTION MEDICATION: A physician’s authorization is needed for non-prescription medication that is not included in the above list, or if it is to be taken differently than indicated on the label or lacks labeled instructions. G. SPECIAL MEDICATIONS: An action plan from the doctor is required for all ‘as needed’ medications, including epi-pens, and inhalers. H. UNUSED MEDICATION: Any unused medication will be returned to the Parent immediately after authorization has expired or properly disposed if not retrieved by the Parent. I. ALLERGIES: Excell maintains a list of allergies on each child. Please insure we are advised of all your child’s allergies and updated as medical conditions change. DAILY SIGN IN & OUT The State of Georgia requires that your child be signed in when dropped off and signed out when picked up. All students should be signed in and out each day using computerized system called EZ-Care2. Each person on your pickup and emergency list will have their own individual code to use whenever they drop off or pick up your child. PLEASE DO NOT SHARE YOUR PIN WITH OTHERS. Sharing of PINS will compromise our security system. A manual sign-out system will be used as a backup system to EZ-Care2. » Parents must escort their children to and from their classrooms, or designated locations daily. » Children will absolutely NOT be released to anyone except those authorized to pick up the child on the enrollment form. Picture identification is required of those authorized who are unfamiliar to staff. In the event you wish another adult not listed on the enrollment form to pick up your child, a written permission notice is required in advance. Faxed signature releases are permissible. » Children or siblings under 18 years of age will not be permitted to sign a child in or out or remove a child from the center. » The State of Georgia prohibits childcare providers from releasing children to a Parent/guardian or any other person who is clearly under the influence of alcohol or any illicit drugs. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 18
SUPPLY LISTS Parents are requested to supply items necessary for the proper care of their child. Supplies will need to be replenished throughout the year. All children’s personal items should be labeled with their first and last names with a permanent marker. 1. Two sets of clothing for children 2 years of age and younger 2. One set of clothing for children 3 years of age and older 3. Wipes for all children 4. Kleenex for all children 5. Diapers or pull-ups for children not potty trained 6. Necessary medications (refer to Medication Section) 7. Substitute food (for children with food allergies, or those who are vegetarians) 8. Pacifiers are not encouraged, but if used they cannot be attached to clothing. Pacifiers will be allowed during nap time only and must be clearly labeled for your child. 9. No sleeping bags (unless instructed by teacher) 10. No pillows, please The teacher will provide an additional classroom supply list in your classroom welcome packet. PARKING LOT GUIDELINES Please obey all parking lot signs including speed limit. Complete compliance to parking lot regulations is essential for the safety of our children. Parking in the mornings is limited and many parents like to use the entry lane on Salem Road to drop children off. Please be cognizant of this when entering in the morning. In the afternoon when time is not an issue, please use empty parking spaces as opposed to parking in front of the building. All parking spaces are clearly marked. Handicap spaces are also marked. It is against the law to park in a handicap space without a current handicap decal. It is also against the law to park in fire lanes. VIOLATORS MAY BE TICKETED, BOOTED, TOWED OR INCARCERATED. VISITATION Parents are allowed to tour the facility and meet with management as they deem necessary. Access to all areas used by children will be available during the tour after notification of their arrival. Limitations to this policy are noted below: ¨ Parents/guardians are allowed unsupervised access with their child only. ¨ Parents must sign in and obtain a visitor’s pass upon visiting the center. This does not apply to routine drop off and pick up times. ¨ Parents are encouraged to schedule a conference with the teacher to avoid lengthy conversation during class time. PARENT/FAMILY INVOLVEMENT The program established at Excell Prep encourages and promotes parental involvement. This program begins with an open-door policy, continual communication between center and Parent. We offer a variety of ways in which families can participate in helping us establish and reach our program goals. Each family is a child’s first teacher. We value families as partners in the growth and development of the children in our program. Research has proven that children enter the world with a great ability to learn. The first five years of a child’s life are a time of extensive social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth. When families actively support their children and teach them that learning is important and fun, the children are much more successful at learning. We encourage parents and other family members to be involved in the program, visit children’s classrooms, participate in events, and provide feedback on the program. The Center wishes to initiate a strong foundation of educational values that can be enhanced in later school years. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 19
C. OPERATIONAL POLICIES SAFE SLEEP PRACTICES Excell provides a safe sleep environment in accordance with American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) recommendations as listed below for all infants. Safe Sleep Regulations and Center Policies: 1. Infants are placed on their back to sleep unless center has been provided a letter by a physician authorizing another sleep position for that particular infant that includes how the infant should be placed and a time frame that the instructions should be followed. 2. When an infant can easily turn over from back to front and back again, the staff shall continue to put the infant to sleep initially on the infant’s back but allow the infant to roll over into his or her preferred position and not re-position the infant. 3. No items to be placed in or on the crib with an infant such as, but not limited to toys, pillows, quilts, comforters, bumper pads, sheepskins, stuffed toys or other soft items. 4. Center shall not attach or allow any objects to be attached to a crib with a sleeping infant including, but not limited to, crib gyms, toys, mirrors or mobiles. 5. Appropriate sleep clothing to be provided by parents or guardian: sleepers, sleep sacks and wearable blankets that fit according to the commercial manufacturer’s guidelines and will not slide up around infant’s face may be used when necessary for the comfort of the sleeping infant. 6. Swaddling shall not be used unless a written physician’s statement can be provided including instructions and timeframe for swaddling. 7. Individual crib, cot or mat and bedding provided and changing and cleaning practices for these items are such: cribs are marked for individual use and sheets and bedding is laundered daily or as needed. 8. Infants who fall asleep in other equipment on the floor or elsewhere will be moved to a crib to sleep. 9. No positioning devices or wedges can be used. 10. Cribs shall be in compliance with the CPSC and ASTM. 11. Crib construction shall be in good repair and free of hazards. HEALTH & SAFETY PRACTICES A. GLOVES: Each Associate is responsible for protecting themselves and the children from germs by wearing rubber gloves while diapering, toileting, cleaning areas that may be contaminated with human feces, urine, and or blood, and while assisting children with emergency first aid. A pair of disposable gloves should be in your pockets at all times. B. HAND WASHING: Hands MUST be washed before and after meals, before and after bathroom use, after nose blowing or wiping, and after handling an ill child. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 20
C. DIAPER CHANGING: Diaper changes will occur every 1½ to two hours with the exception of naptime in which case each child will be diapered as soon as the child awakens, unless a child is obviously in need of a diaper change. We use disposable diapers only, which are provided by Parents. Hands MUST be washed before and after changing diapers. The changing surface is sterilized with recommended bleach solution before and after each use. Soiled diapers will be disposed of in a closed and sanitized container. Children’s hands are washed after each diaper change. D. TOYS & EQUIPMENT: These will be sterilized daily or as needed with the recommended bleach solution. E. BEDDING: Each student will be assigned their own personal cot and cot accessories (a fitted sheet and cover combo) during their enrollment term in each classroom. These items will be laundered at the facility on a weekly or as needed basis. Infant accessories are laundered daily. F. CLEANING: The Center MUST be kept clean and sanitary at all time. Each Associate should do light cleaning during the day to keep their room and bathroom presentable at all times. G. FIRE DRILLS: Practice drills will be conducted a minimum of once monthly and recorded on record sheets provided by the state fire Marshall. Evacuation procedures will be posted on the wall next to exits. H. FIRST AID TRAINING: Excell Preparatory Center requires that 100% of our Associates have a current CPR & First Aid Certificate. I. RELEASE OF CHILDREN: Children will absolutely NOT be released to anyone except those authorized to pick up the child on the enrollment form. All authorized to pick up the child must be 18 years old or older. Emergency contacts are authorized to pick up the child. Identification is required of those authorized who are unfamiliar to staff. In the event a parent wishes another adult to pick up child, written permission is required in advance. Violation of the rule is cause for immediate termination. PROGRAM PARTICULARS POTTY TRAINING: Potty training is strongly emphasized in the 2 year old classroom. We will work with Parents/guardians to initiate potty training. In order to be successful in this training; it is important that both Parents/guardians and staff are consistent in their techniques. Cleanliness and hand washing are emphasized in the training process. We do not punish children for potty accidents. Excell requires that all students entering our 3K program be fully potty trained. DAILY/WEEKLY/PROGRESS REPORTS The reports below will be used in the classroom to communicate with the parent a) DAILY REPORTS: Infants, toddlers and 2 year olds will receive daily activity reports. b) WEEKLY REPORTS: Weekly behavior reports will be prepared for all 3K and 4K students. c) PROGRESS REPORTS: Progress reports for 4K and above students will be provided 6 times during the academic school year. MEALS AND SNACKS MEALS: All meals and snacks are prepared in accordance with the USDA guidelines. Breakfast is served from 6:45am to 8:00am for 3K and above in the cafeteria and 6:45am to 8:00am for the Nursery Zone. Outside breakfast is not allowed in the Center. Only 5K, 1st and 1stgrade students are allowed to bring in sack lunches. Sack lunches must meet USDA guidelines. Student will be required to bring sack lunches for designated fieldtrips. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 21
SPECIAL DIETS: If a child has a particular dietary need, substantiated by a medical evaluation or religious beliefs, the Administrative staff must be informed in writing and or given a doctor’s note. Excell will supply substitute nutritional meals or snacks. FEEDING OF CHILDREN: A written feeding plan is required for children under 1 years of age. Feeding plans must be updated regularly as new foods are added or other dietary changes are made. Children shall be given necessary assistance in feeding and encouraged to develop good nutritional habits. As soon as a child exhibits a desire to feed him/herself, the child will be assisted and encouraged to do so and to drink from individual cups. Children will be encouraged, but not forced to eat. Additional servings will be offered to children over and above the required daily minimum. SAMPLE MENU Weekly menus are posted on the Parent Board every Friday for the upcoming week. Copies of menus are available at the front desk. Any changes to the menu during the current week will be noted on the display copy. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Biscuit Cheese Grits Cheese Eggs Waffles Sausage Muffins Eggs Toast Breakfast Peaches Banana Applesauce Orange Slices Fruit Cocktail Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Chicken Nuggets Grilled Baked Chicken Spaghetti & Lasagna Tarter Tots Cheese Green Beans Meatballs Tossed Salad Green Beans Sandwich Cream Potatoes Lunch Peas Toast Orange Slices Tomato Soup Corn Bread Fruit Cocktail Applesauce Rolls Peaches Jell-O Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Cheese Graham Fruit Salad Butter Cookies Bananas Snack Crackers Crackers Milk Milk Milk Milk Milk Chocolate Chip Soy Nut Butter Apple Jack Fruit Cocktail Ritz Crackers Snack Cookies Sandwiches Cereal Water Water Water Water Milk INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS Excell’s ultimate goal is to provide a superior service to our Customers. That means being available 100% of when you need us. Therefore we will plan to be open during suspect inclement weather conditions so that the parents will have reliable care for their children. We will not however jeopardize the safety of the Associates. Each Associate must determine if conditions are safe enough to make the trip into work. You can determine if we are operating by calling our main number, 770-322-5210. A message will be left on the answering machine indicating whether we are open or closed. If we are closed, we will also be listed on the school closing listing for channels WSB–2, FOX-5 and WXIA-11. Information will also be posted on the website at www.excellprep.com. Excell Customer Manual – 07/2020 Page 22
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