FAMILY HANDBOOK 2020-2021 - And Operational Policies - Shoreline Learning Center
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
FAMILY HANDBOOK
And Operational Policies
SHORELINE LEARNING CENTER
IS A MINISTRY OF
SHORELINE CHURCH
15201 Burnet Road
Austin, TX 78728
Director: Assistant Director School-Age Program Director
Ami Castro Kassandra Thomas Drew Ballard
2020-2021
1
WELCOME!
On behalf of the staff, administration, and Shoreline Church, we welcome you to Shoreline Learning
Center! Our goal is to provide an environment anchored in the Word of God by being Christ-centered,
focused on solid character development, and developmentally based.
To create a Christ-centered environment means we openly share our faith in Jesus Christ. John 3:16
says, “For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in Him
shall not die but have eternal life.” We acknowledge God and His Word, the Bible, as the source of
our success. We recognize the primary source of building a child's faith comes from home. We
encourage our families to pray together, have family devotions, and discuss their faith, planting seeds
in these precious young minds.
Because we are Christ-centered, character development is based on the fruits of the spirit (Galatians
5:22-23); love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Our goal is to demonstrate these qualities, and through the power of the Holy Spirit, begin to develop
these qualities in your child.
Our program is based on the development of the whole child, striving to instill in our young children a
love for learning, and laying a foundation to help our children be successful in school.
This Handbook has been prepared to help you become more familiar with the vision of Shoreline
Learning Center as well as our policies and procedures. We hope you will read it carefully and refer
to it often throughout your child's time here in our program.
We are happy and honored you've chosen Shoreline Learning Center, and we look forward to
developing a strong partnership with you to help develop and nurture your precious child!
Serving Him together,
Ami Castro
Director
Kassandra Thomas
Assistant Director
School-Age Program Director
Drew Ballard
2
SHORELINE LEARNING CENTER STATEMENT OF FAITH
We believe that you have every right to know what your child will be exposed to at the school he or she
attends. Therefore, our foundational beliefs are included in this handbook for your examination.
God
God is the Creator and Ruler of the universe. He has eternally existed in three persons: the Father, the
Son, and the Holy Spirit. These three are co-equal and are one God.
Mankind
We are all made in the spiritual image of God, to be like Him in character. We are the supreme object
of God’s creation. Although mankind has tremendous potential for good, we are marred by a condition
of disobedience toward God called "sin". This condition separates us from God.
Eternity
We all were created to exist forever. We will either exist eternally separated from God by sin or in union
with God through forgiveness and salvation. Eternity is a place of eternal union and eternal life with
God.
Jesus Christ
Jesus Christ is the Son of God. He is co-equal with the Father. Jesus lived a sinless human life and
offered Himself as the perfect sacrifice for the sins of all by dying on a cross. He arose from the dead
after three days to demonstrate His power over sin and death. He ascended to heaven’s glory and will
return again to earth to reign as King of Kings, and Lord of Lords.
Salvation
Salvation is a gift from God to mankind. We can never make up for our sin by self-improvement or good
works. Only by trusting in Jesus Christ as God’s offer of forgiveness can we be saved from sin’s
penalty. Eternal life begins the moment we receive Jesus Christ into our life by faith.
The Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit is equal to the Father and Son. He is present in the world to make mankind aware of
our need for Jesus Christ. He also lives in every Christian from the moment of salvation. He provides
the Christian with power and gifts for living, understanding of spiritual truth, and guidance in doing what
is right. The Christian seeks to live under His control daily.
The Bible
The Bible is God’s word to all mankind. It was written by human authors, under the supernatural
guidance of the Holy Spirit. It is the supreme source of truth for Christian beliefs and living. Because it
is inspired by God, it is truth without any mixture of error.
3
Table of Contents
Educational Philosophy……………………………………………………...pg. 5
Program Structure……………………………………………………….…...pg. 5-6
Registration and Admissions………………………………………………..pg. 6-7
Tuition and Finances …………………………………………………………pg. 7-8
Security ………………………………………………………………………..pg. 9
Emergency Procedures………………………………………………………pg. 10
Classroom Standards & Curriculum Goals………………………………...pg. 11-12
Routines……………..…………………………………………………………pg. 13
Pick-Up from Neighboring Elementary School…………… ………...…….pg. 14
Nutrition & Health….……………………………………………………….....pg. 15-17
Discipline………………………………………………………………….…...pg. 18-19
Communication………………………………………………………………..pg. 19
Dress Code…………………………………………………………………….pg. 20
Parties and Personal Items…………………………………………………..pg. 20-21
Software Management…………………………………………………….….pg. 21
Resources…………….…………………………………………………….….pg. 22-25
School Year Calendar………………………………………………………...
RECEIPT OF ACKNOWLEDGEMENT……………………………………...pg. 27
SLC HANDBOOK COVID-19 ADDENDUM 2020-2021 School………….pg. 28-31
School Age virtual learning Addendum and Afterschool Protocols…pg.32
4
OUR EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
We believe young children learn best by experiencing meaningful work and play.
We believe a loving, nurturing, and stimulating environment offers age appropriate learning opportunities,
concrete sensory experiences, and positive social interactions.
We believe a trusting relationship developed from mutual respect helps children feel safe, secure, and
nurtured.
We believe each child is created unique in God’s design and is part of a family system. We support your
primary role as a parent and we rely on your full partnership to best meet the needs of your child.
We believe the Word of God is the ultimate resource in helping to raise godly children. We refer to the
scripture to care, teach, counsel, and discipline children. It is important that we are in unity concerning
God’s design for training children.
VISION
Our vision is to provide an environment anchored in the Word of God by being Christ-centered, focused on
solid character development, and based on the development of the whole child.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
Shoreline Learning Center serves children 8 weeks of age to 5 years-old during the hours of 7:00am to
6:00pm. We offer a year round program with the exception of specified holidays and teacher workdays. It is
our intent to support working families with flexible day options. Students enrolled in the Three- and Four-
year-old classes should arrive by 8:30am, and all younger students should arrive by 9:00am. This
ensures that the learning environment is not disrupted and curriculum can be taught effectively. If your child
will be late or absent, please notify the office. Children may not be dropped off after 9:00am without prior
approval by the Director.
We offer extended care to school age children attending neighboring elementary schools; before school from
7:00am to 7:20am, and after school from 3:00pm to 5:00pm. In addition, we provide full day care during school
holidays or teacher workdays when Shoreline is open and the elementary school is closed (additional fees
may apply). Lunch is not provided, all children attending during school holidays or teacher workdays should
bring a nut free lunch from home.
Program Description
Bible truths are the core in all activities. We enrich our curriculum with learning centers, outdoor experiences,
special visits, and chapel. Music is incorporated all day long in Bible, language, circle time, and nap time.
A Message from the Administration
Our educational philosophy comes from both God's command that children be taught to love God and place
Him first in their lives, and from the fact that PARENTS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR THE TOTAL EDUCATION
AND TRAINING OF THEIR CHILDREN. AT THE PARENTS' REQUEST, SHORELINE LEARNING CENTER
BECOMES A PARTNER IN PROVIDING PART OF THEIR CHILDREN'S EDUCATION. PARENTAL
SUPPORT OF TEACHERS IS ESSENTIAL.
5
IN YOUR CHILD' S DEVELOPMENT, THE CENTER AIMS TO:
• TEACH the Bible as God's inspired Word and to develop attitudes of love and respect toward it.
• TEACH the basic doctrines of the Bible, i.e., God, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, Mankind, Salvation,
Eternity, the Word, etc.
• DEVELOP a desire to know and obey the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures.
• DEVELOP the mind of Christ in the child toward godliness and sin, and to teach the child how to
overcome sin.
• HELP the child develop his or her personality and character based on a proper understanding that we
are unique individuals created in the image of God.
• TEACH the child to treat others with love and respect as unique individuals made in God's image.
Family Participation
Parents and other family members are welcome to observe and participate in classroom experiences. We ask
that all visitors check in with the office and get a Visitor’s Badge before going to the classroom. Teachers will
ask for volunteers for special projects and events, but parents may also volunteer or visit as desired. Families
who are considering enrolling in Shoreline Learning Center may be allowed to visit the classroom by
scheduling the visit through the office. Other children, such as friends and relatives, are requested NOT to
visit during class time, unless prior approval is given from the office and arrangements made with the
classroom teacher.
Regulation
Shoreline Learning Center is regulated by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TXDFPS),
a state agency that supervises the minimum standards for childcare operation. Parents are permitted to review
and discuss any questions, procedures, or concerns about policies with the Director. A copy of the Texas
Department of Family and Protective Services Minimum Standards is available for review along with the latest
inspection report, and the Director can help you with any questions you may have. In addition, the standards
are available for review at www.tdfps.tx.us or you may call the local licensing office: 1-512-834-3194. Call the
DFPS Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400 to report suspected abuse or neglect.
REGISTRATION, ADMISSIONS, AND TUITION
Shoreline Learning Center admits children of any race, color, national or ethnic origin, to all the rights,
privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to children. It does not discriminate
on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in administration of its education policies and admissions
policies.
The following is required for admission:
1. Admission Fee of $150.00
2. Health Record and health statement completed by a physician
3. Immunization Record
4. All Shoreline Learning Center forms signed by parents/guardians
5. Orientation meeting with the Director
Class placement for all children will be determined by the administration.
Tuition and Fees
1. Registration and Supply Fee: The Admission Fee (due at the time of enrollment) for new children is
6
$150 per child. The annual registration fee for returning children is $100 per child (due in March). THESE
FEES ARE NON-REFUNDABLE.
2. Tuition: Tuition is charged on the first of the month and must be paid by the 5th. Tuition not paid by the
5th of the month will incur a $25.00 late fee. Tuition may be split into two payments with half the tuition
paid on the 1st and the other half paid on the 15th of the month. Late charges will apply to payments not
received by the 5th and 20th if on a twice-a-month plan. Tuition is paid online at www.icaresoftware.com.
In addition, you may pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card in the office. Recurring payments
can be scheduled through the office or online.
3. Tuition for school age extended care: Tuition is not reduced for school breaks. Full day care for
teacher workdays and some holidays will be provided at no additional cost if Shoreline is open on those
days. An additional fee may apply for care during Winter Break and Spring Break. Lunch is not provided,
all children attending during school holidays or teacher workdays should bring a nut free lunch from
home.
4. CCS Parent Fee: Workforce CCS parent fees must be paid by the third business day of the month as
required by Workforce. Non-payment of fees will be reported to CCS on the fourth business day of the
month.
5. Returned Check Fee: A fee of $25.00 will be charged for all returned checks.
6. Late Pick-up Fee: Shoreline will charge a late pick-up fee of $20 for each child that is picked-up late
(after 6:00 p.m.) each day. An additional fee of $20 will be charged for each fifteen minutes you are late.
As a courtesy, please call the office at (512)681-3255 if you are running late. Consecutive or routine
late pick-ups may lead to disenrollment.
7. 30 Day Written Notice: Shoreline may charge full tuition rates for failing to provide the 30 Day Written
Notice Form 30 days prior to your child or children’s last day.
8. Delinquent Accounts: Accounts becoming ten days delinquent in payment of tuition may result in the
child’s inability to return to class until the account is brought current. Shoreline will not re-enroll children
that have an outstanding balance until the balance is paid.
9. Refunds: Refunds will be made to your account as necessary, and will be made according to payment
method. Refunds may take up to 5 days to process. If you dispute a charge or credit made to your
account, please see the Director.
Because Shoreline Learning Center has an obligation to its employees, no reductions can be made for
vacations, school holidays, or closures due to weather. No deductions will be made for tuition due to
absence.
Withdrawal from Shoreline Learning Center
If you choose to withdraw at any time during the year, you are required to complete a withdrawal form and submit it to
the office thirty days in advance of withdrawal. The previous enrollment/ registration fee is no longer valid. If you then
choose to re-enroll your child, new registration/enrollment fees and updated paperwork are required. You will be required
to re-register and pay the registration fee to secure your child’s enrollment. Please note – this fee is non-refundable
should you decide to forfeit the assigned slot. If space is not available, the office will contact you and inform you of the
waiting list procedure.
The administration reserves the right to refuse admittance to or to disenroll any child or parent who it determines
to be incompatible with the center or detrimental to other children in the center.
Monthly Tuition
2020-2021 School Year
7Age on 2 Day 3 Day 5 Day
September 1, 2020 T/TH Plan M/W/F Plan M-F Plan
4 Years Old Monthly ---------- ---------- $824
3 Years Old Monthly $549 $642 $849
2 Years Old Monthly $624 $728 $979
18 Months Old Monthly $665 $764 $1020
12 Months Old Monthly $942 $1065 $1102
Infants Monthly ---------- ---------- $1195
**********************************************************
School Age Programs
Monthly Tuition
Grade on 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day Drop In
September 1, 2020 T/TH Plan M/W/F Plan
PK - 6th grade $130 $190 $225 $12
Jubilee-Wells Branch $255
Afterschool
Monthly
PK – 5th grade
RRISD Schools $160 $220 $252 $285 $15
Afterschool
Monthly
Summer Program $40/ day $40/ day $40/ day $200/ week $50/ drop-in
*Virtual Learning $40/ day $40/ day $40/ day $200/ week ----------
*If full month of virtual learning is paid upfront a $50.00 discount
will be applied to your account. School-Age ONLY.
**Tuition rates are subject to change
POLICY REVIEW AND UPDATE
Policies are reviewed annually and updated if necessary. Parents will be notified 30 days in advance, in
writing, of any policy changes.
8SECURITY
In an effort to keep our facility as secure as possible, the following policies will apply AT ALL TIMES. We
cannot make exceptions, and non-compliance will result in disenrollment from Shoreline Learning Center.
There is a “no entry” rule to classrooms if the classroom teacher is not present. If you forget to collect
personal items such as backpacks, clothing, daily folder, etc., they will need to be picked up the next day.
Checking in and out
Each parent will be issued a code for the iCare Lobby portal. You will need to enter your code on either of the
tablets in the lobby to check your child in at drop-off, and out at pick-up. Every person you list on your
attendance form who has permission to pick up your child will also have a code. Each code is unique, and you
must use your own code to check in or out so we have a record of who is dropping off the child and who the
child goes home with. The first time someone drops off or picks up a child, we will check their picture ID and
help them with the procedure.
When you drop off your child, you must walk your child to the classroom and make sure that the teacher is
aware of your child’s presence. Likewise, at pick-up, make sure the teacher sees your child leaving with an
authorized adult. Children of any age may not walk themselves to or from their classrooms; they must
be accompanied by an authorized adult or teacher at all times.
Restrictions in Pick-up
In situations where a parent is not allowed to visit or pick-up a child, it is the guardian's responsibility to provide
a certified court order for our files. The safety of every child is most important to us at Shoreline.
Communication with us is vital in keeping our children safe. Without a court order to limit a parent’s access to
the child, both parents have equal access to their child as stipulated by law.
If there is to be a change in who is picking-up a child, there needs to be notification in advance to the office to
avoid confusion and miscommunication. Once you have informed us of an authorized person to pick-up, they
will need to show their driver’s license to identify themselves as the designated pick-up person.
Security Door
Each parent will be issued a security code to open the door to the hallway where the classrooms are located,
at this time the tablet closest to the door is the designated tablet for door entry.
DO NOT HOLD THE SECURITY DOOR OPEN FOR OTHER PEOPLE. NO ONE MAY ENTER THE
HALLWAY WITHOUT FIRST OPENING THE DOOR WITH A SECURITY CODE. THIS IS FOR THE SAFETY
OF OUR CHILDREN.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
In case of fire:
The children will exit as posted by the door of each room and proceed along their designated routes.
Classrooms RED 1, 2, 3, YELLOW 1, 2, 3, and GREEN 3 exit through the hallway, through the double doors to
the playground, and then through the gate to the east parking lot. Classrooms GREEN 1 and BLUE 1, 2, 3 exit
9through the hallway into the office and exit the building through the front door, taking a right to the east parking
lot. Classrooms on the second floor, BETA and EPSILON, will exit through the hallway, through the double
doors at the southeast corner of the building to the balcony, down the stairs to the playground, and then
through the gate to the east parking lot. All classes will gather in the east parking lot, at which time it will be
determined by the Director if the classes should proceed further away from the building towards the Jubilee-
Wells Branch property. The Director and Assistant Director are responsible for ensuring all the children have
been evacuated from the classrooms and that the classroom doors are closed. Floaters will help the teachers
in RED 1, 2, and 3. The teachers will evacuate with their supervision sheets, indicating which children are in
care, and with the children’s emergency forms (including authorization for emergency care and emergency
contact information). Parents will be contacted as soon as possible, and reunification will occur at the direction
of law enforcement or emergency officials. The Director will be the last person out of the building and will
make sure everybody has safely evacuated. Teachers will immediately take attendance when they have
arrived at the meeting site. Fire drills will be conducted monthly.
In case of severe weather:
The Director and/or Assistant Director will call over the intercom; “Round up your ponies.” This is the signal
that the children must be relocated to the Kid’s Club. Teachers will line the children up against the walls in the
Kid’s Club and, when necessary, the children will “duck and cover.” During relocation due to weather,
teachers must bring the children’s emergency forms with them when leaving the classroom. Teachers will
immediately take attendance when they have arrived in the Kid’s Club. Each teacher must also have a
flashlight. The Director will be responsible for listening to the weather radio and sounding the “all clear”.
Severe weather drills will be conducted at least quarterly.
In case of an area-wide emergency requiring evacuation to an alternate shelter:
We will follow the instructions of the local authorities. During an evacuation, the teachers must bring their
supervision sheet and children’s emergency forms with them when leaving the classroom. Our emergency
evacuation site is Jubilee-Wells Branch, located at 15201 Burnet Rd, Austin, TX 78728, in the gymnasium.
The teachers will evacuate with their supervision sheets, indicating which children are in care, and with the
children’s emergency forms (including authorization for emergency care and emergency contact information).
Parents will be contacted as soon as possible, and reunification will occur at the direction of law enforcement
or emergency officials.
In case of a volatile person on campus:
911 will be notified as soon as possible.
The code word is “purple room.” Upon hearing that phrase, the teachers will close and lock their classroom
doors, and then take their children into the bathrooms or corner in their room that cannot be seen from the
doorway and remain in place until given the “all clear” by the Director and/or Assistant Director with instruction
from law enforcement.
Children with limited mobility:
Children with limited mobility, including non-walking infants and toddlers, will be placed in the evacuation crib
or in the Toddler stroller for relocation to the designated safe area or alternate shelter. The floating teachers
and Assistant Director will help evacuate classrooms in which children with limited mobility are enrolled.
Children with special needs:
Children who have mental, visual, hearing, or other impairments requiring assistance in an emergency will be
assigned a floating teacher who will be responsible for helping only that child relocate to the designated safe
area or alternate shelter.
In case of an emergency and our phone is not working, parents may call the Shoreline Church
office, 512-310-2244.
Inclement Weather
If it is necessary to start late or to cancel classes because of a serious, severe weather warning, we will make
every effort to have this communicated via email. It is important that every parent have a working email
address so that we may contact you in the event of an emergency or closing. Every decision made is for the
utmost safety of our children. If in doubt, parents should follow whatever instructions are given by Round Rock
ISD.
10CLASSROOM STANDARDS AND CURRICULUM GOALS
The Creative Curriculum for Infants, Toddlers & Twos (Teaching Strategies, 2015) is the curriculum we
use in our program for very young children. The Creative Curriculum includes comprehensive and
developmentally appropriate objectives for children’s learning. It is a framework that allows teachers to provide
excellent care and education while planning for and responding to the individual interests and abilities of the
children in their class. The Creative Curriculum is organized into nine areas of development and learning:
social-emotional, physical, language, cognitive, literacy, mathematics, science and technology, social studies,
and the arts.
Infants- At Shoreline we understand that babies are individuals with their own needs and routines. We
constantly monitor our little ones to ensure that these needs are being met and that the babies are receiving all
of the comforts of home here at school. The infant classroom is a loving and nurturing environment where
your child will grow, thrive, and learn in a Christian atmosphere.
We focus on creating a bond between your child and the teacher. We hold, cuddle, sing, and talk to our
infants. Talking, singing, humming, and signing with American Sign Language is brought into the classroom to
promote communication with others at a young age. We offer experiences that teach object permanence,
cause and effect relationships, early literacy, and sensory awareness through our curriculum and
individualized goals for each child.
Toddlers- This class facilitates the rapid growth in fine and gross motor development, language acquisition,
and positive social interaction. It is important that we maintain a consistent routine and schedule for the
toddlers. Children this age learn by exploring and interacting with their environment, but still need to be
securely attached to their caregivers. Toddlers respond to one another physically because they are unable to
verbalize their emotions. The teacher’s job is to help the children with the very first stages of self-regulation.
The toddler classrooms utilize the Creative Curriculum, which is a framework for teachers to plan lessons for
the individual and group goals of the children.
Twos- This is a fun stage where children learn about their abilities and develop independence. They are eager
to show you what they can do all by themselves. Children this age are just developing an awareness of the
world as a whole. Teachers work with the children to help them learn to get along with others, and to express
emotions appropriately. Children are eager to please and need lots of patience and redirection. The twos’
classrooms utilize the Creative Curriculum, which is a framework for teachers to plan lessons for the individual
and group goals of the children. Two-year-olds really enjoy expressing themselves through singing and
dancing.
Frog Street Pre-K (Frog Street Press, Inc., 2013) is the curriculum we use in our preschool program with the
three- and four-year-old children. Frog Street helps teachers build a community of learners using
comprehensive curriculum that is child-centered, intentional, integrated across domains, focused on social and
emotional development, and is aligned to the Texas Prekindergarten Guidelines.
Threes- The third year is the year of big emotions. We are preparing your children for future school success by
teaching them how to manage their big emotions and use emerging problem-solving skills when faced with
difficult experiences. The teachers focus on early literacy and math skills when setting goals for the children.
Our expectation is that children are becoming more independent and can take care of many of their own needs
such as taking care of their belongings and classroom. Development of self-help skills is an important part of
lesson planning.
Fours- We are excited to guide children in lessons that will prepare them for kindergarten. Discipline and
guidance will be more consistent with what children will experience in kindergarten. The best transition for your
child is consistency in expectations. They should be able to solve conflicts, express emotions, work
cooperatively, and be completely self-sufficient in daily routines. The fours use the Frog Street Press
Curriculum which is aligned with the Texas Pre-Kindergarten Guidelines and approved by the Texas Education
Agency.
11School Age- At this time we are only able to provide before- and after-school care to children enrolled at
Jubilee-Wells Branch. We are offering afterschool care only to certain RRISD schools. Our summer program is
open to all children, and is tailored to ensure that elementary school children have a fun, experience-rich
summer in a safe environment. Children may not be dropped off after 9:00am without prior approval by
the Director. On field trip days drop off must occur no later than 30 minutes prior to their departure
time. Drop off may not occur if school agers are not on campus.
Children with Challenging Behaviors
When a child’s ongoing challenging behavior must be addressed, the following steps will be taken:
• The function of the behavior will be assessed.
• The program will work with families and professionals to develop an individualized plan to address the
behavior.
• Positive behavior support strategies, such as modifying the classroom environment or schedule, will be
included in the individualized plan.
The teacher and Director will have ongoing conversations with parents to discuss concerns and strategies in
addressing challenging behaviors. The program works to serve the needs of all children including those with
special needs. If necessary, outside consultation may be sought to help meet the needs of some children.
Parents will cooperate with staff efforts to provide early intervention and guidance. If the teacher, outside
consultant, and the parents determine that the program is unable to meet the needs of a child, we will work
closely with the family to find an appropriate placement for the child.
Physical Activity and Outdoor Play
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children need at least 60 minutes of vigorous physical
activity each and every day. Vigorous activity includes running, jumping, climbing, skipping, hopping, galloping,
etc. Physical activity promotes a healthy lifestyle, prevents obesity, and encourages development of gross
motor skills. We strive to provide many opportunities for children to be physically active. Weather permitting,
we will go outside twice a day; once in the morning and once in the afternoon. We may go outside when it’s
muddy, when it’s cold, when it’s hot, and sometimes even if it’s raining (but not thundering/lightning). We do
not go outside on ozone action days, and we play outside for a limited time on days of extreme cold or heat.
Please keep this in mind and make sure your child is dressed appropriately for whatever the weather may
bring, and that there is an appropriate change of clothes for your child in case their clothes get wet or dirty.
Screen Time
Screen time (television, DVD’s, computer programs, or tablets) will not be provided for children under the age
of 2 years.
Screen time for older children will be planned to enhance the curriculum and will not be used in place of
physical activity. Screen time activities will be included on the teacher’s lesson plans.
Technology
Shoreline Learning Center implements learning activities based on the Texas Early Learning and PreK
Guidelines with the exception of technology (in this instance, technology means electronics such as iPads or
computers). We believe children have the opportunity to experience technology outside of the classroom and
in later learning, and we want to focus on other early learning domains such as language and literacy,
cognitive skills, and social/emotional learning.
ROUTINES
Arrival
It is recommended that your child arrive on time for morning activities and lessons. Children feel successful
when they participate in activities with their friends. We certainly do not want your child to feel left out of
special projects or enjoyable play times with classmates. If your child will be late or absent, please notify the
12office. Children may not be dropped-off after 9:00am without prior approval by the Director.
Transition from Home to School
One of our goals is to help children who are new to Shoreline become comfortable quickly. Separation anxiety
can be a challenge for children, especially when leaving home for the first time. For that reason, we establish
a two week adjustment period for your child to develop a secure bond with his/her teacher. The adjustment
period may include a graduated schedule depending on the age and individual needs of the child. We want to
do all we can to make the adjustment of attending Shoreline Learning Center a pleasant experience.
In addition, as a normal part of development, children who have not experienced trouble separating from
parents or caregivers in the past can suddenly become fearful or sad at drop-off. If this becomes the case for
your child, we will work with you to ensure that drop-off goes as smoothly as possible. It is best that daily drop-
off remains as consistent as possible to minimize problems.
Nap Time
OLDER children will be required to take a nap or “rest their bodies” with their class. Please be sure to provide
a small blanket and a small pillow for rest time. After a minimum of one hour of rest, children will be offered an
alternative quiet activity when they awaken. Blankets and pillows should be taken home and laundered
weekly.
INFANTS younger than 12 months will always be put to sleep on their backs. No toys, soft objects, stuffed
animals, pillows, blankets, quilts, or loose bedding will be in the crib or draped over the crib. Devices such as
wedges or infant positioners will not be used, and if the infant falls asleep anyplace other than a crib, or arrives
to the program asleep, he will be moved to a crib immediately. More information regarding safe sleep will be
given to parents of infants at the time of enrollment.
Toilet Learning
Toilet learning is a joint effort between parent and teacher. It takes effort both at home and at school to
successfully teach a child to go potty. We believe it is up to the child to decide when he or she is ready to
begin to use the toilet. Signs of readiness are your child staying dry for an extended period of time or letting
someone know he or she needs to go before the actual event. Consistency between home and school is
crucial to success.
Chapel
Chapel is a time to praise the Lord, to study God's Word, and to learn to be more like Jesus! Chapel services
are held on Fridays at 9am.The youngest classes first learn Chapel activities in their classroom. Parents are
welcome to attend Chapel with us.
Pick Up from Neighboring Elementary School
Before-School Care for Elementary Students
Jubilee Wells Branch students already enrolled in our after-school program may be dropped off at Shoreline
Learning Center no later than 7:15am for before-school care. Our staff will walk or take the students by bus to
the Jubilee-Wells Branch campus in time for breakfast. At this time we are unable to provide before school
care for RRISD students enrolled in our afterschool program.
13Pick-up from Jubilee-Wells Branch and RRISD Schools
For JWB parents with children enrolled in our afterschool program, our teachers will meet your child in the
school cafeteria at dismissal time. RRISD students will be picked up in the bus line. We will adhere strictly to
the schedule provided by parents when picking up children, so it is imperative that you keep us informed of
schedule changes. If your child will not be attending Shoreline on any given day, you must let us know as early
as possible. We cannot leave the campus until all children are accounted for. The Elementary staff does not
communicate absences to us, and does not inform us when you make alternative pick up arrangements; we
depend on parents for that information. If a child who is on our schedule for pick up does not show up in the
cafeteria or bus line as expected, we will make every attempt to contact the parents to find out where the child
is. If we cannot contact the parents, we will inquire at the school office for information. If the whereabouts of
the child is still undetermined, and we still cannot reach the parents, we will wait 15 minutes for the child before
returning to Shoreline.
Three instances of not informing the Shoreline office of your school age child’s absence or schedule
change will result in disenrollment of the child.
If your child is staying after school for special activities or tutoring, we must be notified by the parent in
advance. We will not leave a child at school without prior consent from the parent. The school staff cannot give
us permission to leave your child at the school. If your child does stay for after school activities, we are unable
to make a second pick up. You must make arrangements to either pick up your child from school or have an
adult walk your child over to Shoreline and check him/her in with the office.
If your child is absent or gets sent home early from school for any reason, he or she may not attend Shoreline
Learning Center on that day. Parents may not drop their school age children off at Shoreline after 7:15am on
days when school is in session.
Pick-up from RRISD Elementary Schools
Each school has its own procedures for after school pick-up. We will follow the instructions of the school.
However, the parent is still responsible for informing the Shoreline office of an absence or schedule change.
Three instances of not informing the Shoreline office of your school age child’s absence or schedule
change will result in disenrollment of the child.
If your child is absent or gets sent home early from the elementary school for any reason, he or she may not
attend Shoreline Learning Center on that day. Parents may not drop their school age children off at Shoreline
after 7:15am on days when RRISD is in session.
NUTRITION
A hot lunch is provided to our children through a catering service prepared in a kitchen that is inspected by a
local health official. Our lunches and snacks are planned to meet ½ the daily nutritional value required for your
child. Menus include milk, protein, fruits/vegetables, and whole grains daily. Due to diet restrictions or allergies,
you may choose to send lunch with your child. Keep in mind, microwaves and refrigerators are not available
for heating or storing your child’s lunch. Also, a lunch from home must supply sources of protein,
vegetables/fruit, and whole grains, and should be low in sugar. See page 22 for examples of heathy lunch
choices. We will provide milk, fresh fruit, and vegetables, if needed, to children who bring their lunch from
home. If a teacher sends a sugary food home with your child instead of letting him eat it at school, please
14understand that we are not making a judgment about what you feed your child, but are following state
regulations regarding nutrition. For more information on nutrition please visit www.choosemyplate.gov.
All food for infants enrolled in room Red 2 will be provided by the parents.
Liquids and food hotter than 110 degrees F are kept out of reach of children.
As a safety precaution, we do not serve any foods containing nuts. Though your child may not have a nut
allergy, he/she may have a friend in class who might. For the safety of all children, we are a nut free
school. Foods containing nuts, or that might contain nuts, are prohibited. Our staff is educated about
food allergies and they take precautions to ensure children are protected. Some common allergies include
peanuts, nuts, dairy, soy, wheat and egg. For more information about common allergies please visit
www.healthychildren.org.
Children are provided two snacks with water each day – in the morning and in the afternoon. Children who
arrive before 7:45am may bring breakfast with them and eat it in the classroom.
School age children in after school care will be provided with a healthy snack (as listed by the Texas
Department of Agriculture) upon arrival from school.
Treats sent by parents to celebrate birthdays or class parties must be store bought to avoid any allergic
reactions and so that we have a list of the ingredients. Such treats should be brought in the morning, and the
teacher will serve them to the class at the appropriate time: usually snack time. Please supply enough for the
entire class.
Our teachers do not reward good behavior or a clean plate with foods of any kind.
Breastfeeding
Mothers who are breastfeeding can check in with the office and we will help you find a quiet spot to do so if
needed. Parents have a right to breastfeed or provide breast milk for their child while in care.
If you’d like more information about breastfeeding education and support resources in the community, please
see the Director or Infant Room teachers.
HEALTH
Illness
If a child becomes ill, the teacher or the front office will evaluate him/her, and we will pray with your child. The
parents will be contacted if it appears that the child is too ill to remain at the Center. For the protection of all
the children, we cannot accept a child at the Center if he/she shows any of the following symptoms: fever with
a temperature of 100.4 or higher, contagious illness or skin rash, diarrhea, pink eye (conjunctivitis), vomiting,
thick mucus discharge from nose, bronchitis, a severe cold with fever, sneezing and nose drainage or head
lice. A child will need to be picked up within one hour of contact with parent. If we are unable to reach you, we
will begin contacting authorized adults that you listed as emergency contacts. Please be sure that we have
ALL of your emergency contacts’ information so that we may reach them in a timely fashion. This will also
help us in verifying their identity upon pick-up.
First aid measures will be given as needed. All staff members are trained and certified in CPR and First Aid.
A child who is absent due to an illness must be free from fever, without the aid of medication, for 24 hours.
When in doubt, see the Director for TXDFPS guidelines. You will be informed if there is a spread of a
communicable illness within your child’s classroom. Please remember, if a child is well enough to return to
class, he/she should be well enough to participate in all activities, including outdoor play.
Medication
Over the counter or prescription medication that are not affiliated with a life threatening medical condition will
not be administered at the operation. If a parent or authorized person wants to come and administer
medication at the operation they are able to do so. Shoreline LC will not be responsible for administering
15medication that is not prescribed for the following: allergy, asthma and seizure related medication.
Arrangements must be made with the office if the child needs to take any type of prescription medication at the
Center. You must include an action plan that must be renewed annually. Medication will only be administered
by staff who have completed specific training to do so.
Three things are necessary to comply with TXDFPS regulations:
1. A Request to Dispense Medication form filled out and signed by the parent/guardian. Authorization to
administer medication expires on the first anniversary of the date the authorization is provided.
2. Medicine must be brought to the office in its ORIGINAL CONTAINER, including directions for dosage and
administered only to the child for whom it is intended and not be administered after its expiration date.
3. Over the counter medication will not be stored or administered without a doctor’s prescription.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
Our teachers will apply sunscreen and insect repellent if provided by the parent. It must be in the original
container, labeled with the child’s name, and the directions must specify that it may be applied to the age of
the child it is intended for. Sunscreen and insect repellent will only be applied once, in the afternoon. Morning
application should be done at home before the child arrives at school.
Immunizations
Your child’s immunization records must be completed and up to date before enrollment. It is the parent’s
responsibility to provide the office with updated records. These must be submitted no later than 2 days
following immunization. If information is not submitted, Shoreline may discontinue care until the situation is
remedied. Affidavits for exemptions to immunization must be submitted upon enrollment and updated as
required by the Texas Department of State Health Services.
A child who has not received the required immunizations for reasons of conscience, including religious beliefs,
may be excluded from school in times of emergency or epidemic declared by the commissioner of the state
health department.
Staff members are vaccinated in accordance with the Travis County Health Department’s requirements. At this
time, the TCHD does not require immunizations for Learning Center teachers. We will follow TCHD’s
recommendations if a vaccine preventable disease outbreak occurs.
Vision and Hearing Screening
Four-year-olds (by September 1st) are required to have a vision and hearing screening by December 31 st, and
the results of that screening must be on file in our office.
Medical Emergencies
In case of an accidental injury that may require medical attention, we will make an immediate attempt to
contact a parent or guardian. If we can’t reach anyone, we will call the name listed as your emergency contact.
If we still cannot reach anyone, we will call the child’s physician. It is to your child’s benefit that you keep the
school informed of current telephone numbers and emergency numbers.
In case of a critical illness or injury requiring immediate attention of a physician, we will call EMS, then give the
child first aid or CPR if needed, contact the physician, and then the parent.
Notifications
TXDFPS regulations say that we must notify parents after a child:
• Is injured and the injury requires medical attention by a health care professional
• Has a sign or symptom requiring exclusion from the center as specified on the Communicable Disease
Chart that is posted in the office
• Has been involved in any situation that places the child at risk
• Has been involved in a situation that renders the center unsafe (such as a fire, flood, severe weather
damage)
16Parents will be notified of less serious injuries such as minor cuts, scratches, and bites requiring first-aid
treatment at time of pick up.
We will notify parents in writing and within 48 hours when aware that your child has been exposed to a
communicable disease that the law requires us to report to the Travis County Health Department.
We will also provide written notification within 48 hours to the parents of the children in a classroom when an
outbreak of lice occurs.
Preventing and Responding to Child Abuse
Our staff is oriented when hired, and trained annually, regarding symptoms of child abuse and neglect and
reporting policies and procedures. Texas State Law requires the staff of this child-care facility to report any
suspected abuse or neglect of a child to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (Child Abuse
Hotline 800-252-5400) or a law enforcement agency. When staff has reasonable cause to suspect child abuse
or neglect they are required to report to Child Protective Services. Reports by the center are not made
anonymously. All information pertaining to the report and the subsequent investigation is considered
confidential by TDFPS. At the request of CPS, parents or guardians are not informed when a report is made in
order not to impede the investigation. If appropriate, parents or guardians may be notified after the
investigation at the discretion of the director.
If a staff member is accused of child abuse or neglect, they may be suspended or given leave pending
investigation of the accusation. Such staff may also be removed from the classroom and given a job that does
not require interaction with children. Parents or legal guardians of suspected abused children will be notified.
Parents or legal guardians of other children in the program will be contacted by the Texas Department of
Family and Protective Services so they may share any concerns they have had. However, no accusation or
affirmation of guilt will be made until the investigation is complete. Staff members found guilty of child abuse
will be summarily dismissed or relieved of their duties.
Shoreline Learning Center works to educate and raise awareness by parents and the community about issues
regarding child abuse and neglect. More information and resources are available in our Parent Resource
Center in the office.
Anyone who suspects child abuse or neglect should call the Child Abuse Hotline: 800-252-5400
DISCIPLINE
Caregivers will equitably use positive guidance, redirection, planning ahead to prevent problems,
encouragement of appropriate behavior, consistent clear rules, and involving children in problem solving to
foster the child’s own ability to become self-disciplined. Where the child understands words, discipline will be
explained to the child before and at the time of any disciplinary action. Caregivers will encourage children to
respect other people, to be fair, respect property, and learn to be responsible for their actions. Caregivers will
guide children to develop self-control and orderly conduct in relationship to peers and adults. Aggressive
physical behavior toward staff or children is unacceptable. Caregivers will intervene immediately when a child
becomes physically aggressive to protect all of the children and encourage more acceptable behavior.
Caregivers will use discipline that is consistent, clear, and understandable to the child.
Permissible Methods of Discipline
17For acts of aggression and fighting (e.g., biting, hitting, etc.) staff will set appropriate expectations for
children and guide them in solving problems. This positive guidance will be the usual technique for managing
children with challenging behaviors rather than punishing them for having problems they have not yet learned
to solve. In addition, staff may:
1. Separate the children involved.
2. Immediately comfort the individual who was injured.
3. Care for any injury suffered by the victim involved in the incident.
4. Notify parents or legal guardians of children involved in the incident.
5. Review the adequacy of caregiver supervision, appropriateness of facility activities, and administrative
corrective action if there is a recurrence.
Physical restraint will not be used except as necessary to ensure a child’s safety or that of others, and then in
the form of holding by another person as gently as possible only for as long as is necessary for control of the
situation.
Medicines or drugs that will affect behavior will not be used except as prescribed by a child’s health care
provider and with specific written instructions from the child’s health care provider for the use of the medicine.
Time-out will be used if other management techniques are ineffective. “Time-out” or removal of a child from
the environment may be used selectively for children over 18 months of age who are at risk of harming
themselves or others. The period of “time-out” will be just long enough to enable the child to regain self-control.
As a general rule this period will not exceed one minute per year of age. Caregivers will monitor the
effectiveness of “time-out” and seek the help of a mental health consultant when approved behavior
management strategies do not seem to be effective.
Prohibited Practices
There must be no harsh, cruel, or unusual treatment of any child. The following types of discipline and
guidance are prohibited, no exceptions:
1. Corporal punishment of threats of corporal punishment;
2. Punishment associated with food, naps, or toilet training;
3. Pinching, shaking, or biting a child;
4. Putting anything in or on a child’s mouth;
5. Hitting a child with a hand or instrument;
6. Humiliating, ridiculing, rejecting, or yelling at a child;
7. Subjecting a child to harsh, abusive, or profane language;
8. Placing a child in a locked or dark room, bathroom, or closet with the door closed;
9. Requiring a child to remain silent or inactive for inappropriately long periods of time for the child’s age.
Suspension, Expulsion, or Other Exclusionary Measures
The goal of our Discipline and Guidance policy is to limit the use of suspensions, expulsion, and other
exclusionary measures. When dealing with challenging behaviors, the teacher and Director will have ongoing
conversations with parents to discuss concerns and strategies in addressing those behaviors. The program
works to serve the needs of all children including those with special needs. If necessary, outside consultation
may be sought to help meet the needs of some children. Parents will cooperate with staff efforts to provide
early intervention and guidance. If the teacher, outside consultant, and the parents determine that the program
is unable to meet the needs of a child, we will work closely with the family to find an appropriate placement for
the child. Exclusionary measures will not be considered until all other possible interventions have been
exhausted, and there is agreement that exclusion is in the best interest of the child. Shoreline Learning Center
complies with federal and state civil rights laws.
COMMUNICATION
18Teachers and Staff
The best part of our program is our teachers!
• Our teachers are professionally prepared in the latest child development research and best practices of
early childhood education.
• New teachers are carefully trained in specific age–appropriate care giving techniques as well as in our
intensive orientation program.
• Our teachers are selected by their Christian testimony, ability to nurture, expertise, and experience with
young children.
• We initiate communication through daily grams, the notebook in your child’s folder (three- and four-
year-olds), and by email. In addition, we use a variety of formal and informal strategies to become
acquainted with and learn from the family. Questionnaires, emails, and planned and spontaneous
conversations are way to learn more about families.
We ask that family members share their knowledge of their child’s interests, approaches to learning, and
developmental needs. We want to learn about the family’s concerns and goals for their child. Teachers will use
this information to adapt the program environment, curriculum, and teaching methods to better serve our
enrolled families.
Parent/Teacher Conferences
Conferences are intended to help us build a good working relationship with the parents for the benefit of the
child. Parents who would like to set up a conference with a teacher should call the office to leave a message
for the teacher or reach the teacher by email. Parents will be informed of any concerns about a child's
success in all areas of learning.
Resolution of Problems
If parents believe a problem has arisen, they should take steps quickly to bring about a resolution.
Communication is vital. Parents should call the office to leave a message for the teacher or email the teacher
should a problem arise. The Director is available anytime.
We suggest the parent first go to the person and/or teacher with whom they believe the problem exists. In the
unlikely event that a resolution is not reached, the parent should contact the Director. It is our intention to
always follow the conflict resolution principles laid out in Matthew 18.
Cell Phones
In order to facilitate communication between our teachers, children, and parents, cell phone use is prohibited
at drop-off and pick-up. Your child needs your full attention at these times, and the teacher may have important
information to share with you. Cell phone conversations and texting must be ended before entering the hallway
to the classrooms.
ODDS AND ENDS
DRESS-CODE-Clothing
• Sandals, “crocks”, and flip flops are not permitted in the Center. All shoes must have a closed toe and a
closed back that fully cover and support the child’s foot. For the comfort and safety of our students, tennis
shoes are the best selection. Note: we will not be able to tie shoes continuously throughout the day so bear
in mind that sending your child in Velcro shoes is very helpful to teachers who are providing care to
multiple children.
• Hair should be clean and groomed.
• Girls must wear shorts underneath skirts and dresses.
• Children (except infants) may not be sent in “onesies”; no snap together one-piece garments.
• Any clothing item with a waistband (pants, shorts, other bottoms, etc.) must have an elastic waist band.
For older children, please no buckles or any kind of buttons or snaps that your child is not able to fasten
themselves. This is to encourage independence.
• Children should always have at least one entire change of clothes available, including an extra pair of
19You can also read
