Parent/Student Handbook - Bethel's Family Christian Academy 14442 Fonmeadow Houston, Texas 77035 713-729-5672 - Bethel's Christian Academy
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy
Parent/Student Handbook
14442 Fonmeadow
Houston, Texas 77035
713-729-5672
1Contact Information
Jaime Holman
Program Director
832-250-8639
jholman@bfcaeagles.org
Ruby August
Executive Administrator
713-553-1801 cell
raugust@bfcaeagles.org
Bernice Lofton
Receptionist
(713)729-5672
blofton@bfcaeagles.org
Debra Norman
Finance Administrator
(713)729-5672
dnorman@bfcaeagles.org
Brenda Pye
Office Manager
(713)729-5672
bpye@bfcaeagles.org
2School Hours
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy is open from 6:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m., Monday thru Friday.
Important Dates (2020 – 2021)
School Closure Days
August 10, 2020 First Day of School
September 7, 2020 Labor Day
November 25 – 27, 2020 Thanksgiving Break
December 23, 2020 Early Dismissal
December 24 – 25, 2020 Christmas
December 31, 2020` New Year’s Eve
January 1, 2021 New Year’s Day
January 18, 2021 Martin Luther King, Jr Day
March 16-18, 2021 Spring Break
April 2, 2021 Good Friday
May 31, 2021 Memorial Day
June 6, 2021 Summer Program (Tentative)
3Our Mission
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy (BCA) exists to provide a holistic education that promotes the
highest achievement in academics, a biblical worldview, and character development marked by
disciplined behavior, thereby equipping children (18 months to PreK5) with what they need today
to live successfully and effectively tomorrow.
Our Vision
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy will embody and promote the spirit of individual excellence
through the highest quality of teachers, broad based family, community support and programs that
are biblically based. BCA will become a model school for educating children regardless of their
current academic and social status.
Our Stakeholders
1. Children
2. Staff
a. Administrators who provide leadership, program development, and service
coordination
b. Teachers who provide classroom instruction and student supervision.
c. Support personnel who provide assistance and program service.
3. Home
a. Where parents (who are the primary teachers of children) participate in the learning
process by reinforcing the individualized educational goals for their child(ren)
4. Supporters
a. Board of Directors
b. Volunteers
Our Values
Our Greatest Model is Jesus
And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man. Luke 2:52
At Bethel’s Family Christian Academy we value the total commitment of all our stakeholders
(students, parents, staff and supporters), as evidenced by:
1. A sense of shared purpose and values.
2. Camaraderie, teamwork, and collegiality.
3. Effective communications at all levels to facilitate the educational objectives.
An academic program marked by excellence and high achievement, as evidenced by:
1. An environment that conveys the message that all students can learn, marked by
increasingly higher levels of achievement with students performing at or above their
academic grade level.
2. Effective, enabled, equipped, and empowered staff, parents, and supporters.
3. Individualized and personalized instructions.
A biblical worldview that is evidenced by:
1. An awareness of the unconditional love of God, a sense of purpose and self-worth, and hope
for the future.
42. Workers who serve as models and mentors of the highest biblical values by loving God and
loving others.
3. Instruction and training that integrate the truth of God’s Word with the facts about God’s
world.
Positive character development through:
1. Having clear-cut expectations of the children to demonstrate appropriate, responsible, and
productive social behavior.
2. Teaching by persons who represent positive role models that the children can emulate.
3. Teaching social skills to children in formal and informal settings.
Our Strategic Plans
At Bethel’s Family Christian Academy, we value the total commitment of all our stakeholders
(students, parents)to facilitate its mission and vision. Bethel’s Family Christian Academy
recognizes two strategic areas for school:
1. Student Assessment
The philosophy of teaching adopted by Bethel’s Family Christian Academy is that teaching is
directly related to learning, and where learning has not taken place, neither has teaching. The act of
teaching is not an end but a means to an end. The end is that the student registers the information
taught, retains the information, and is able to recite it with understanding. To measure the
effectiveness of the teaching/learning process, Bethel’s Family Christian Academy is committed to
regular student assessments via written and/or oral testing. Such assessment provides the
information needed to diagnose the student’s beginning academic levels, prescribe an effective
course of study tailored to the individual student, and prepare the student for optimum performance
on nationally administered standardized tests.
2. Parental/Community Involvement
The home is where a child should be trained up in the way he or she should go (Proverbs 22:6). The
reality is that we continue to witness the demise of the basic family structure that offers children the
best foundation for their physical, social, mental, emotional, and spiritual development. As a result,
children are starting school with considerable emotional, moral, and academic deficiencies. These
deficiencies require the mobilization of adult caregivers who will instruct children by their teaching
and illustrate by their living, the core values essential for a child’s development. Bethel’s Family
Christian Academy is committed to mobilizing parents and volunteers.
Minimum Standards & Licensing
Parents are entitled to the following information
1. Minimum Standards for Licensed Day Care
2. Licensing Inspection Forms and Reports
a. Location in the BCA office (Also see Receptionist and/or Nurse’s Station)
3. Contacting Agencies
Local Licensing Office (713)940-3009
DFPS Hotline (800)252-5400
DFPS website www.dfps.state.tx.us
5Here you will find the minimum standards for child care centers.
To review the most recent licensing inspection report for Bethel’s Family Christian Academy
please visit www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child_Care. In addition, the most
recent licensing inspection report is posted in the main office. Other inspections posted are the Fire
Marshal Inspection and Health Department Inspection. Please contact BCA’s Director with any
concerns about policies & procedures. You may schedule an appointment to visit the preschool any
time during normal business hours.
Hold Harmless Release
Parent/guardian knowingly holds harmless Bethel’s Family Christian Academy, The Church at
Bethel’s Family, its employees and volunteers from any claims that might result from any accidents
at any time involving your child(ren). Parent/guardian is solely responsible for any damages caused
by their child(ren) whether supervised by an adult or not.
School Calendar
The BCA school calendar will be provided at the beginning of the school year and upon
registration. The Houston Independent School District (HISD) calendar will be taken into
consideration when developing the BCA school year calendar. Please keep the calendar available to
be aware of school closings, holidays and other events. Our school calendar can be found at
www.bcaeagles.org.
Transportation
● BCA does not offer transportation
● BCA does not transport children for field trips
Vision and Hearing Screening Requirements
The Vision and Hearing Screening Program, Texas Health and Safety Code requires that all
children enrolled for the first time in any public, private, parochial, denominational school or in a
Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) licensed child-care center and licensed child
care home in Texas, or who meet certain grade criteria (specified below), must be screened or have
a professional examination for possible vision and hearing problems.
The requirements for Vision and Hearing Screening apply each year for children enrolled in any
licensed child-care center and licensed child care home or school program at the ages or grades
listed below:
WHO MUST BE SCREENED WHEN SCREENING MUST BE DONE
4-years-old by September 1st Within 120 days of admission
Kindergartners
Any other first-time entrants
(4 years* through 12th grade)
For Specifics info can be found at Texas Dept. of State Health Services www.dshs.state.tx.us/vhs/.
Hearing & Vision Screening are not offered at BCA. Please check with your child’s physician if
there are problems with their hearing & vision.
6TUITION FEES
Registration Fee
A registration/supply fee of $75.00 is due each school year per child. Registration fees are not
refundable and are non-transferrable. (No exceptions)
Tuition
Tuition is $140.00 per week, per child. Tuition is due each Friday. It is considered late on Monday
of the following week. (Please note: tuition payments are still collected for school holidays and
holiday weeks, i.e. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break). There is no reduction in tuition for
the days your child may miss due to vacations, illness or holiday school closure.
***Please note if there is a “pandemic” we will follow the Executive order mandated by local or
state officials. During a pandemic we will not collect tuition for students that do not attend
school. ***
Parents are welcomed to pay weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, quarterly etc. - as long as the tuition is
paid in advance – NOT in arrears. We accept the following payment methods – money orders,
cashier’s checks, credit/debit cards or online payment (www.bfcaeagles.org/tuition). We do not
accept cash or personal checks.
When making a payment via credit card in the office, please use the BCA payment envelope and
place the payment receipt in the envelope, write the parents first and last name, child’s first and last
name and the week for payment. Not doing so may result in your child’s account not being credited
properly. Payment envelopes should be placed in the payment box in the office or to OFFICE
STAFF ONLY. Please make all money orders or cashier’s checks payable to Bethel’s Family
Christian Academy.
Child Care Expense Reports
Child Care expense reports are created to reflect the amount of tuition paid during the school year.
Reports may be requested at any time during the school year. Reports are provided annually to all
parents. The report will be emailed to the name and email address listed on the account no later
than January 31 of the given year. Please ensure multiple email addresses have been provided (if
necessary).
Late Tuition Payments
BCA will enforce the “No Pay, No Stay” policy. Payments are due on the Friday prior to the
attending week. If the payment is not made Friday prior to the attending week, there will be a
$25.00 late fee charge. If a payment goes delinquent for more than one (1) business day, Tuesday
morning of the attending week, the child’s enrollment will be terminated until all fees are paid. A
re-enrollment fee/registration fee of $75.00 may be charged plus one week’s tuition of $140.00 will
be assessed in order for the child to re-enroll into Bethel’s Family Christian Academy.
Late Pick-up Fee
Children must be picked up no later than 6:00 p.m. If you know you will be late, please give a
courtesy call to the school. There will be a charge of $10.00 per child (including siblings) for the
7first 5 minutes (6:05 p.m.). An additional $1.00 per minute will be added after the first 6 minutes
(6:06 p.m.) and every minute thereafter. Upon arrival, the attending staff will notify you of the total
amount incurred for the late pick-up.
Admissions & Enrollment Policies
Admissions & Enrollment Policies
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, national and
ethnic origin, or religion for purposes of admission.
1. Parent or guardian visits school
2. Admission Forms are submitted accompanied by a registration fee of $75.00. Students must
be enrolled by a parent or legal guardian. (Please provide legal documents if necessary)
3. Parent or guardian complete and sign all forms
a. Admission/Registration Information Form
b. Child Pick-Up Authorization Form
c. Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
d. Insurance Information/General Release and Waiver of Liability
e. Child’s Birth Certificate
f. Health Requirements Form (Immunizations)
g. Financial Agreement
Enrollment
A child shall show acceptable evidence of vaccination prior to entry, attendance, or transfer to a child-care
facility in Texas. *Immunization forms must be received before a student may enroll in our program.
Students may submit an Affidavit Request for Exemption from Immunizations. DSHS recognizes,
however, that for a small number of people, there may be valid medical reasons for which they
cannot receive certain vaccines. For school and childcare attendance, the state allows for medical
exemptions to accommodate these individuals. Schools and childcare facilities should accept
medical exemptions that are signed by a US-licensed MD or DO and clearly state a medical reason
the person cannot receive specific vaccines. Unless the exemption states a lifelong condition, the
exemption is only valid for one year. 1
Termination of Enrollment Policy
If you need to terminate your child’s enrollment, we ask that you give a two-week written notice by
completing a Withdrawal Form outlining the reasons for termination. Tuition payment is required
during the withdrawal period.
Changes in Important Information
If there are changes in the following, please notify the school at (713)729-5672 immediately:
1. Change of contact information (address, telephone, etc.)
2. Place of employment
3. Authorized individuals to pick-up your child(ren)
4. Emergency contact information
5. Changes in Allergies
6. Changes in medication
1
https://www.dshs.texas.gov/immunize/school/exemptions.aspx
8Attendance
We believe that regular attendance in the program is essential to the success of a student’s
experience. One can really never make up or compensate for absence from the program.
Advance notification from parents or legal guardians is requested for instances of the following:
1. Illness or injury prohibiting a child from coming to school
2. Serious illness in the student’s family
3. Death in the student’s family
4. Any significant change that may impact the child’s behavior
Arrival
Please help us teach your child punctuality by arriving no later than 7:55 a.m. daily. Timeliness is
an important skill that children begin to learn at a very young age. Please ensure that your child is
on time to preschool. By arriving later than 8 a.m. , your child will miss critical learning time. Our
mornings are academically focused while the afternoons are more fun based yet still learning.
All latecomers will enter at the preschool entrance however, for the safety of our children and staff,
these doors will be locked. You will have to push the button located on the right side of the door for
entrance to the building. Please be patient as school has started. There may be a short wait time
before someone can open the door.
Signing Students In and Out of School
All children must be signed in and out by a parent/guardian or a designated person listed on the
child’s pick-up authorization form. All designated individuals must be eighteen years old or older
(18 or over). Students may not enter or exit the school without being accompanied by a parent or
parent designee.
Parents must turn in a written list of designated drop off/pick up persons. It is requested for parents
and guardians to assign a code in Brightwheel the parents and pickup designees. The purpose of the
code is an added safety feature to ensure that the pickup person is eligible to pick-up the child(ren).
A valid state issued identification will be required for pickup.
Illness Policy
Ill children cannot attend the program. Children with allergies may attend. If you are unsure, call
and consult your child’s physician. Children experiencing the following symptoms in particular will
not be able to attend the program:
1. Fever (Any fever higher than 100’ within the past 24 hrs.)
2. Vomiting (Any vomiting within the past 24 hrs.)
3. Diarrhea (2 or more loose bowel movements with the past 24 hrs.)
Any contagious diseases (Including, but not limited to: pinkeye, conjunctivitis, lice – must be nit-
free for 48 hours, chicken pox, flu, ringworm) if you are unsure, consult with your child’s
physician. If your child has any contagious virus and/or diseases, a statement from your child’s
physician will be required in order for the child to be readmitted to school.
Parent(s) will be called to pick up a child that becomes ill. If you would like the Academy to
administer medicine to your child, a permission form must be signed and kept on file. An ill child
should be picked up by the parent/guardian or parent designee within the hour. The staff is unable
9to properly care for an ill child and still provide supervision to the other children.
Daily Morning Health Checks
A daily morning health check is performed everyday your child attends preschool. The daily health
check is a visual and physical assessment of your child to identify potential concerns about a child’s
health, including signs or symptoms of illness or injury or in response to a child’s behavior since
the last date of attending preschool. Annual Staff training is conducted on how to conduct health
checks and identify the problem for the purpose of preventing the spread of illness in the preschool
setting.
Safety
Each student must have up-to-date physical records and required immunizations and/or
vaccinations.
WHERE CAN I GET IMMUNIZATIONS?
● City of Houston Health Centers
http://www.houstontx.gov/health/HealthCenters/
● Harris Health Troubleshooters
https://www.harrishealth.org/services-hh/outreach/Pages/troubleshooters-immunization.aspx
● Texas Children's Mobile Clinics
https://www.texaschildrens.org/departments/mobile-clinics
A. Infectious Diseases (Please read COVID-19 form and sign
In the event an enrolled student or applicant in the process of enrollment is discovered to have an
infectious disease or to be a carrier thereof, the following will apply the parents or guardians of an
infected student are responsible for securing regular medical evaluations, as determined by the
program’s director, so as to permit a reliable assessment of any change in the student’s condition
that might affect the program’s decision permitting enrollment or continued attendance.
COVID-19 Health & Safety Protocols
● It is imperative that all Parents, Guardians, and Staff read the following health and
safety guidelines and know the risks associated with attending Bethel’s Family
Christian Academy.
● Important Disclaimer: By registering and/or attending BFCA, you acknowledge that
there is an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in any public space where people
are present. By attending BFCA you and any family member(s) and/or guest(s)
voluntarily assume any and all risks related to exposure to COVID-19 and agree not
to hold Bethel’s Family Christian Academy or any of its affiliates, founders,
directors, officers, staff, volunteers, contractors, or members liable for any illness, or
injury.
● BFCA will follow the established Safety Protocols established by the State of Texas
for https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-
childcare/guidance-for-childcare.html#open.
10● We encourage all parents, guardians, and staff to review these additional protocols.
● Temperature Check (100.4 degrees or higher may not enter)
● Verbal Health Inquiry/Assessment regarding symptoms, recent travel, and covid-19
exposure.
● Hand Sanitizer stations
● Mask must be worn by those over the age of 10 years old.
● Social Distancing (6 feet apart) Precautions
B. Administration of Medicine
The parent/guardian shall deliver the medication to the office; labeled children name to the office
along with a signed note from the doctor, stating what the medication is for, how often it is to be
taken, and how long it is to be taken. Under no circumstances will any medication be given without
written consent from the doctor.
BCA/ staff will only administer medication that has been prescribed by a doctor or medication that
the parent has given written consent to administer to the child. Any medications brought by the
parents for their child(ren) must:
1. Be in the original container;
2. Be labeled with the child’s name;
3. Be labeled with the date (If prescription medicine);
4. Include directions to administer the medication; and,
5. If prescribed, include the name of the physician prescribing the medication.
Medications will not be administered to a child if they have not taken the medication prior to the
first dosage in the program. Any medications must be administered first at home or by the
physician. Inform the staff if you, the parent/guardian, have given any medication during the 24-hr
prior period. This information will aid if there is an emergency and prevent from overdosing the
child.
Any special handling, such as refrigeration, dilution, etc., must be put in writing. Time will be
provided in the child’s schedule to come to the office to receive the medication.
C. Parents’ Emergency Phone Numbers Required
At least two emergency phone numbers must be on file in the office. In addition to the home phone
numbers, the program requires a work phone number, mobile number and the numbers of a close
friend, neighbors, or relatives who can be contacted in the event of a serious problem.
D. Medical Release Form Required
The program must have a medical release form for each student. This form allows physicians to
perform emergency treatment in the event that it is impossible to reach a parent or legal guardian or
designee. Few hospitals or doctors will treat a patient under the age of eighteen (18) without
parental consent and in a serious emergency a medical release could save a life! Only a program
official will use the form when a parent or guardian cannot be reached. In any event, every effort
will be made to reach the parents or guardians, and program officials will follow hospital
instructions.
11Lunch/Snack Time
Nutrition
Dietary information is presented as a guide only. If you have allergies, dietary restrictions, or a
food-related medical condition, you should consult with your doctor and with the staff at your
dining location(s) before consuming any food marketed on this platform. (If your child is allergic to
any foods a doctor’s notice must accompany the child along with an action plan for any allergic
reactions i.e. an epi-pen)
Program Practices:
• Children are encouraged to feed themselves as their abilities permit.
• Liquids and food hotter than 110*F are kept out of reach.
• All staff members are educated on food allergies and they take precautions to ensure
children are protected.
• Milk, fruit, and vegetables are available for children who bring home lunches.
Home Practices:
Written policies and procedures will be provided to parents that bring lunches to school.
Parents that bring home lunches must include an ice-pack in the child’s lunch bag.
Parents will receive information about foods that may cause allergic reactions. Parents must provide
meals with adequate nutrition.
Additional Lunch Practices
Pitchers of water are available in the classrooms at all times.
PLEASE NOTE:
1. We do not refrigerate or microwave any foods.
2. Re-freezable cold packs will avoid spoilage.
3. Candy and carbonated drinks are not allowed.
4. We encourage nutritional food.
Meals
We provide breakfast, lunch and a light afternoon snack daily. Meals will meet the state nutrition
and health guidelines. If your child has special dietary needs, inform the staff in writing. If your
child does not like the lunch served on a particular day, please provide a lunch for your child on that
day. Please ensure that your child’s name is on it. Meals are at scheduled times for each class. Any
child not present for a meal will be served during the next meal period. If your child is going to
arrive after a meal is scheduled to be served, you must feed them before bringing them to the
program.
Snack Time
Please send a healthy snack for your child every day in addition to their lunch. These snacks should
be nutritional and provide energy to get through the morning. Ideas for snacks are: protein bars,
crackers, fruit or cheese.
Rest Time
Nap cots are needed for all children who are ages 18 months to three years old and will be provided
12by the school. These are labeled with a number assigned to your child. A sheet will be used to cover
the cot. Your child may bring a blanket and/or small pillow for naptime. Any blankets that are
ripped will be returned to the parents and a replacement will be needed as per health department
regulations.
Blankets and pillows should be taken home every Friday for laundering. Children in the four-year
old class will have a reduced nap schedule. Naptime for children provides an essential break from
an active morning schedule. No one is forced to “nap” but we do require quiet time during the nap
period.
Biting Policy
We want to ensure that every child is safe while in our care. Our program provides an environment
that encourages and promotes cooperative interaction, respect for others, and non-aggressive
problem solving between the children. Biting is a normal stage of development for young children
who are teething and are still developing their language skills. It is usually a temporary condition
that is most common between thirteen and twenty-four months of age. This means that is a
particular concern for the staff in the Toddler/ Young 2’s Room.
For safety and health concerns, we take biting seriously. When it happens, it’s very scary,
frustrating, and stressful for children, parents, and teachers. It is also not something to blame on
children, parents, or teachers, and there are no quick and easy solutions to it. Children bite for a
variety of reasons: simple sensory exploration, panic, crowding, seeking to be noticed, or intense
desire for a toy. Repeated biting becomes a pattern of learned behavior that is often hard to
extinguish because it does achieve results: the desired toy, excitement, attention. Knowing that the
effect of their biting will hurt another person is not yet a part of a child of this ages’ mindset, so the
“cause-effect” relationship is not internalized. Our teachers plan activities and supervise carefully in
order for biting not to happen. There are times, however, when everyone cannot be within
immediate reach to prevent a bite.
Our policy for handling a biting incident is the following:
● The biter is immediately removed from the group with a firm NO. The bitten child is
consoled and the bitten area washed with soap and water. If necessary, ice is applied to
reduce any swelling or bruising.
● The biter is not allowed to return to play and is talked to on a level that he/she can
understand, and then redirected.
● A written incident report is given to the parents of all children involved when they are
picked up that day. The name of a biting child is not released because it serves no useful
purpose and can make an already difficult situation more difficult.
● We look intensively at the context of each biting incident for pattern, in an effort to prevent
further biting behavior.
● We work with each biting child on resolving conflict or frustration in an appropriate
manner.
● We try to adapt to the environment and work with parents to reduce any child stress.
● We make special efforts to protect potential victims.
● We try to make every effort to extinguish the behavior quickly and to balance our
13commitment to the family of the biting child to that of other families.
First offense will result in a meeting with the Parent and Director to discuss child biting behavior.
Second offense will result in 2 days home for the student.
Third offense the student will be administratively withdrawn and there will be a period of 6 months
before the student can return back to school.
PROGRAMMING & ADMINISTRATION
Curriculum
Our curriculum is comprehensive, meaning it includes more than two of the following early
childhood learning domains.
1. Language Development (includes all content)
2. Early Literacy (includes all content)
3. Number concepts (cross curriculum with science)
4. Social and Emotional Development (incorporating chapel and bible verses)
5. Physical Development (includes motor skills along with handwriting)
We have daily communication folders with our parents along with days set up for our parents to
conference with the teachers.
Preschool Curriculum
Early Literacy
Early literacy is the most comprehensive term used to describe the preschool phase of literacy
development. Intentional planning and early learning experiences contribute to building literacy
skills in preschool. BFCA preschool teachers receive annual training in child development and take
professional development courses online throughout the year along with training during our
monthly staff meetings. Our preschool classrooms are modeled reading and writing behaviors while
incorporating art, music and movement. Strategies used in our classrooms included.
Program of Instruction
BFCA is designed to provide a mixture of Christian education, academics, dance, art and crafts.
Our curriculum includes age-appropriate activities for 18 months - 5 years old. We include
activities in language, art, music, computers, science, socialization, and math.
Daily schedule:
6:30- 7:45 Breakfast/Morning Motivation
8:00-8:30 Devotion/Restroom Break
8:30-11:00 Academics, Circle Time, Chapel, Indoor/Outdoor Activities, STEM Lab
11:00-12:00 Lunch/Restroom Break
12:00-2:00 Nap Time
142:30-3:00 Snack Break
3:00-6:00 Extended Care activities (Ballet, Music & Movement, Soccer, Crafts, Golf)
Screen time policies:
Our school day begins at 6:30 am - 6:00 pm. Children receive 1 - 1 ½ hours of screen time. This
includes electronic devices with a screen. This includes academic time along with some circle time
with music and movement. Times may vary depending on activity but screen time is monitored
regularly. If parents have any concerns please contact BFCA offices at 713-729-5672.
Dress Code
Students must be dressed in uniforms Monday-Thursday. Students are permitted to have “free-
dress” (BCA t-shirt w/ jeans) on Fridays only. Students should be dressed appropriately to BCA
uniform standards unless otherwise stated for designated days.
Shorts must be no shorter than two inches above the knee. Parents of students in violation of the
dress code will be contacted to bring a change of clothes or pick the child up from the program. It is
also advisable for students to wear sneakers or any other comfortable active wear shoe with plenty
of support. Flip- flop sandals are not acceptable shoe wear.
Inclement Weather (Please also refer to our Emergency Handbook)
In the event there is an inclement weather report before or after BCA operational hours, you will
receive an automated phone call, email or text message by 5:30 a.m. to inform you if the school will
be closed. *We will follow HISD procedures unless otherwise specified by BCA Staff.
We have developed general operating guidelines, and procedures for a list of critical events and emergencies.
This plan will not limit the use of experience, good judgment, commonsense, discretion, flexibility, and ingenuity
to adapt to any type of critical event, emergency, and the complexities which exist under emergency conditions.
GOALS: The primary goals of this plan are to:
• Develop effective crisis and security plans that will promote the safety and welfare of
students and preschool staff, protect preschool property, and regulate the operation of the
preschool during a crisis incident, critical incident, or medical emergency.
• Prepare students and preschool staff to take appropriate actions in response to natural,
technological, or preschool specific hazards.
• Provide parents with accessibility to the policies, guidelines and procedures we will be
utilizing during an emergency.
FAMILY REUNIFICATION
Purpose: The Family Reunification Protocol is used to ensure a safe and secure means of
accounting for students and reuniting parents/guardians with their children whenever the
preschool facility or grounds is rendered unsafe and a remote site location is needed.
Preschool Director
The Preschool Director will inform the church staff of the need to relocate and, if possible.
The Preschool Director will notify the church staff person at the relocation site to prepare for the
arrival of students. Secure a holding area for arriving students and staff away from waiting family
members. Set up an adult report area for parents/guardians to sign-in and to check identification.
15Set up a student release area where students will be escorted to meet their parents/guardian and sign
out. Only release students to authorized persons after checking proof of identity and signing a
student out. Instruct parents/guardians to leave the site to make room for others once they have
signed out their student
Teachers
Account for your children Sign children out to authorized family members only. Check I.D. 's if
necessary. Follow the instructions of the Preschool Director when you arrive. You may be asked to
assist in staffing the site areas for pick up and release or help in calming parents.
Evacuation to On-Site Locations
We would move children to off-site evacuation sites, as a result of a natural disaster or facility
hazard, or bomb threat in which the preschool building is damaged or considered unsafe. The staff
and students would need to immediately relocate to a different building.
In this case, the children are escorted across next door to the:
YOUTH SANCTUARY
14442 Fonmeadow
Houston, Texas 77035
Phone 713-346-1381
Children and Staff will walk to this location across the open field to the church, and remain
there until the “All Clear” is declared, or until Parent Reunification has been organized and
parents have been notified when and where to pick up children.
Off-Site Evacuation to a Remote Location
In case of complete area evacuation due to toxic spill, explosion or gas leak, children would be
moved by the Fire Department.
Backup Location: In the event the sanctuary is not a feasible choice we would relocate across
the street:
Bethel’s Place Empowerment Center
12660 Sandpiper
Houston, Texas 77035
Phone 713-729-0125
In the event of a major environmental hazard that necessitates a large evacuation such as several
neighborhoods, due to a large non-confined hazard our local government agency will determine the
mass shelter locations. All staff members will accompany their assigned children to the shelter and
remain with them while families are notified. After an emergency incident, and once it is deemed
safe to pick up the children, parents will be directed by preschool staff to the Parent pickup location
in response to the emergency incident for reunification. Students will only be released to persons
who are listed on the student’s enrollment form.
Procedures for Off-Site Evacuation to a Remote Location
These procedures are used when circumstances require the off-site evacuation and relocation of
16students and staff to a remote site where students will be accounted for and released to their parents
or guardians. During emergencies, parents, relatives, and friends often rush to the school incident
site to check on the safety of students and staff. The resulting blockage of streets and large numbers
of people can severely hamper response actions by emergency agencies. The most effective way to
prevent this chaos is to redirect those concerned individuals to a site that is remote from the school
facility and to evacuate students and staff to that site.
Monitoring Service
BCA allows you to be a part of your child’s day by giving you video access to his/her classroom.
Viewing availability is Monday- Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (instructions are below).
WatchMeGrow Sign Up Instructions
● Go to www.watchmegrow.com
● Select “Sign Up” and complete form
● Center Information is as follows:
o Name: Bethel’s Family Christian Academy
o Address: 14442 Fonmeadow Drive
o Houston, TX 77035
o Phone: 713-729-5672
***Your account will be activated as soon as WatchMeGrow verifies your information with the
school.***
Office Policy and Procedures
1. Student Records:
The program maintains a permanent cumulative file on all BCA students. Records of health,
grades, reports on parent conferences, and reports on disciplinary action make up most of
the content.
2. Release of Records:
BCA will release student grades and medical information on the written request of another
school system when such a request contains both the signature of an authorized school
official and the signature of at least one (1) parent or legal guardian on a form to be supplied
by the receiving school.
3. School Phone:
Students may use the office telephone with permission of a staff member, when it is needed
and available.
4. Lost and Found:
Clothing, books, and personal articles will be collected by the program custodial staff each
day, and placed in a central depository. Students and their parents or guardians are asked to
check and reclaim articles during times designated. The program assumes no responsibility
for articles left lying about the building or improperly stored. Articles that are not reclaimed
after 10 business days shall be forfeited by the director/ office staff and donated to an
appropriate charitable organization. Staff in the program can advise students and parents
about the location of “found items.”
17Discipline Policy
Our goal is to build self-esteem by setting appropriate limits necessary to learning self-control and
responsible behavior in a preschool environment. BCA is committed to never using work as
punishment, since it is our conviction that work is good. It is essential for students to develop
wholesome work ethics and habits. Therefore, our intention is to use work to help our students
develop the discipline necessary to live productively and effectively. If inappropriate behavior
continues after techniques have been exhausted then we will contact the parent(s) and a plan of
action will be agreed upon. If inappropriate behavior continues, parent(s) will be required to remove
the child from our program.
A variety of techniques may be used to help children with appropriate classroom skills.
Some of the following techniques are implemented at BCA:
● Redirection – offering choices to eliminate difficult behavior
● Conflict Resolution: Encouraging children to verbalize their needs by talking about what
happened
● The “listening” or “thinking chair” - take time out to think about appropriate classroom
behavior
● Behavior Charts – to help children work back up to making better choices
Specific Rules (Please see trial and removal policy)
1. BFCA reserves the right to suspend or expel a student for misconduct.
2. Program and School property shall be protected. Malicious or careless, defacing, or
destroying school property will result in both appropriate disciplinary action and the
replacement of such property by costing the student and/or his or her parents or legal
guardians.
3. Conduct and attitude shall be respectful. Disruptions in class, unruly behavior, or repeated
violations of prescribed school policy will not be allowed.
4. Respect for authority is required. Each student is expected to show respect for any staff
member at all times, in and out of the program. Any student who is disrespectful to a staff
member(s) will be subject to disciplinary action.
There is a “No Tolerance” policy for fighting or biting, inappropriately hitting or touching another
student, foul and inappropriate language and /or conversation. Any children found in violation of
these behaviors may be subjected to suspension and expulsion.
Improper behavior includes but is not limited to the following:
● Disruptive behavior
● Disrespectfulness/rudeness
● Horseplay
● Running or excessive noise in the hallways
● Improper Dress
18● Disorderly Conduct
● Refusal to participate
● Failure to comply with a reasonable request
● Inappropriate behavior during campus activities
● Unsportsmanlike behavior
● Graffiti/defacing property
● Fighting/Biting
● Inappropriately hitting or touching another student
● Destroying property
● Any other inappropriate behavior/attitude
Trial Period/Removal Policy
Bethel’s Family Christian Academy understands that not all children are ready to be a part of our
learning environment; therefore, all new students enrolled at the school are placed on a six-week
trial period. However, at any time during the year, BCA reserves the right to ask parents to remove
any child who exhibits behavior contrary to school guidelines.
Safety for ALL students is a priority. If any child exhibits disruptive, aggressive or violent
behavior,
The following steps will be taken on any one day:
• At the first instance the child will be removed from the conflict situation and the parents will
be informed. At the teacher’s discretion, the child may be removed from the classroom and
sit in the office for a time away from class activities.
• If the child continues to exhibit aggressive behavior, the child’s parents will be called to
take their child home for the remainder of the school day.
• If the child strikes a teacher he/she will be sent home for the remainder of the day.
• Should a child consistently exhibit disruptive, aggressive or violent behavior towards
students or staff:
• The child will be guided and observed by the Director, teacher and teachers assistant.
• A team (composed of teachers and the Director) will arrange to meet with the child’s
parents/guardians to create a Behavior Action Plan and offer help and guidance in
promoting a joint home and school team effort. A 2 week period is required to implement
the BAP. After that time period, a meeting will be held to determine the efficacy of the
BAP.
• If aggressive behavior continues BFCA reserves the right to have the child removed either
temporarily or permanently from the school.
Personal Items
Please do not let your child bring personal items from home unless approved by the teacher. We are not
responsible for lost or damaged personal items brought to school. If a child brings a personal item from
home, the teacher/staff has the right to take it and hold it until the child goes home. Special opportunities to
bring items from home for show and tell will occur throughout the year at the discretion of your child’s
teacher.
Readmission or Continued Enrollment
BCA reserves the right to deny admission or continued enrollment to any student whose actions
demonstrate that it is not in the program’s best interest to allow admission or continued enrollment.
Any student expelled from school will normally not be allowed to apply for readmission. Requests
19for readmission should be made in writing to the Director.
Parent/School Relations
1. Appointments with Teachers - Parents or guardians are encouraged to see the teaching staff
at any time they have a question or concern about their child’s progress. Teachers are
available by appointment before or after the academic program day for this purpose. To
facilitate conferences, parents are asked to call the program office to confirm the availability
of the teacher they wish to see. Parents who desire a tele- phone conference may leave a
message with the office, and the teacher will be asked to return their call at his earliest
possible convenience.
2. School Communications - The school is committed to effective communication. If a parent
needs further information concerning program activities call the school office. Notices of
special events and activities will be delivered to the parent at drop off or pick-up.
Parents/guardians are asked to always read the notices sent home because important news
concerning program closing, Injuries, communicable disease, damage due to weather,
holidays, time changes, permission slips, etc., may be involved.
a. Pertaining to LEGAL matters, please submit appropriate paperwork for your child’s
file and inform the staff of actions needed and/or any changes.
3. Classroom Visiting
a. Parent(s) or guardian(s) are invited to visit, provided arrangement is made in
advance and approved by the director. Anyone visiting the campus must first check
in at the office and receive a “PASS”. Parents may not go to classrooms without a
“PASS”.
b. Other visitors are not permitted to visit class or be on campus during the program
day without the approval of the director.
4. Complaint or Problem Procedures - Occasionally misunderstandings or problems will arise
between the teacher and a student, teacher and parent, parent and program, or one of several
other possible areas. Such a misunderstanding often results from lack of communication
between those involved.
5. Staff must, at all times, conduct themselves in a manner becoming of a Christian. Griping is
not tolerated! If a student comes home complaining about a discipline policy, parents
should follow this procedure:
a. Give BCA the benefit of the doubt.
b. Realize that your child’s reporting is emotional, and may not contain all the relevant
information.
c. Realize that we have reasons for all rules, and that we enforce them without favor.
d. Support the program’s administration and call us for all the facts.
Helpful Information...
Communication
20It is extremely important that communication between parents and our staff is open and honest.
Parents are requested to inform the staff of anything that might be occurring in the child’s life that
may affect their daily routine. If you need to speak with the Director about ANYTHING, do not
hesitate to call or email.
Child Abuse Reporting
Parents if you suspect child abuse or neglect, please report it immediately. In order to prevent and
respond to suspected abuse we encourage you to call the hotline. Information on where to report
child abuse or neglect is noted below:
Child Abuse Hotline: (800)252-5400
Online: www.txabusehotline.org
Homeland Security
In case of any man-made or natural disaster, it is the responsibility of the Red Cross (713-526-
8300) to designate the area shelter locations and inform the public of these locations, through use of
the media. However, we also have an alternative site located at The Church at Bethel’s Family,
12660 Sandpiper Rd., Houston, TX 77035, if we need to relocate at a great distance. You will be
notified.
FIRE/Tornado/Complete Evacuation
Fire Drills are practiced monthly
Severe weather drills are practice 3 times each school year
In Case of a building evacuation we have an on-site and off-site Buildings
On-Site
Youth Ministry Building adjacent to the BCA building
14442 Fonmeadow
Houston, Texas 77035
Phone: (713)364-1381
Off-site
Bethel’s Place Empowerment Center (across the street)
12660 Sandpiper
Houston, Texas 77035
Phone: (713)729-0125
Please see our Emergency Response Handbook for a detailed account for all procedures.
Gang-Free Zone
All gang related activity is prohibited and is subject to extreme penalty under Texas Law. Any
gang related activity within 1000 feet of the preschool is a violation of law. All gang activity
around the preschool is reported to law enforcement immediately. Please report any criminal
activity as soon as possible.
21Gang-Free Zones and Reporting Suspected Abuse and Neglect
Under the Texas Penal Code, any area within 1,000 feet of a child care center is a gang-free zone,
where criminal offenses related to organized gang-related criminal activity are subject to harsher
penalties. For more information about what constitutes a gang-free zone, please consult sections
71.028 and 71.029 of the Texas Penal Code.
Abuse or Neglect
Texas law requires parents, teachers, and administrators to report suspected child abuse or neglect
to the TDFPS or law enforcement. Call the Child Abuse Hotline number (800)252-5400, to make
confidential reports. Failure to report suspected child abuse or neglect is a crime. Employers are
prohibited from retaliating against employees who make reports in good faith.
What are the signs of Abuse?
Children who are abused might show physical signs or changes in their behavior or school
performance. These signs don’t prove that children are being abused, but they could be a signal that
their children or families need their help. When children talk about being abused take them
seriously. Take steps to get help.
General Signs of Abuse
● Nervous around adults or afraid of certain adults
● Reluctant to go home
● Very passive and withdrawn or aggressive & disruptive
● Tired a lot, or they may complain of nightmares or not sleeping well
● Fearful or Anxious
● Missing school a lot
● Begging for food
● Lacking needed medical or dental care
● Being frequently dirty
● Saying there is no one at home to take care of them
Signs of Physical Abuse
● Unexplained burns, bruises, black eyes or other injuries
● Faded bruises or healing injuries after missing school
● Apparent fear of a parent or caretaker
Signs of Sexual Abuse
● Difficulty walking or sitting or other indications of injuries to the genital area
● Sexual knowledge of behavior beyond what is normal for the child’s age
● Running away from home
Signs of Emotional Abuse
● Acting overly mature or immature for a child’s age
● Extreme Changes in behavior
● Delays in physical or emotional development
● Attempted Suicide
22● Lack of emotional to the parent
Reporting Abuse
Anyone having cause to believe that a child’s physical or mental health has been adversely affected
by abuse or neglect should contact the Dept. of Family Services (DFPS) Child Abuse Hotline
(800)252-5400; 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, nationwide.
Parents at Risk:
Abuse and neglect can be prevented. Don’t lash out when angry with you’re a child
● Take a deep breath
● Call someone or call a friend to watch your kids while you calm down
● Call Texas Neglect & Abuse Hotline (800)252-5400 for someone to talk to
● Find parenting classes in your community to learn about ways to handle the stresses of
dealing with kids
Emotional Well-Being
Please let us know if your child has or is experiencing a traumatic situation at home. The school
staff will be supportive at all times. The church staff is also available to help in difficult situations.
Training & Staff Development
Professional growth is important for all CCS staff because it enables them to stay current on trends
and changes in early childhood education standards. CCS staff and Director are required to obtain a
minimum of 24 hours of early childhood education and staff development training each year. In
addition, staff members must also be:
CPR and First Aid trained;
Participate in Orientation Training;
Participate in a Pre-service Training;
Provide a notarized statement of non-participation in a felony; and
Each employee must pass a thorough criminal history background check conducted by DFPS;
Employee criminal history is rechecked every two years or as required by DFPS.
23Bethel’s Family Christian Academy
Parent Signature Page
This parent handbook outlines the policies and procedures of Bethel’s Family Christian Academy. An
understanding of and adherence to the policies and procedures will ensure positive parent-school relations
and that the children's needs are being adequately met. Therefore, the preschool requires that all parents
and/or guardians of children enrolled at BFCA read, sign, and return to the Preschool Director the statement
that follows.
1. I have read the Preschool Parent Handbook.
2. I will read any additions or revisions to the parent policies.
3. I will adhere to the parent policies outlined in this handbook.
4. I realize that lack of adherence to these policies may result in termination of the child care
arrangement.
I understand that the policies in this handbook and communicated to me in any fashion are subject to
interpretation, review and change annually.
Parent/Guardian,
By signing below, I acknowledge that I have received a copy of the parent/student handbook.
Student Name Grade Level
Parent/Guardian Signature Date
Parent/Guardian Printed Name
Director’s Signature Date
Jaime Holman, Director
(Return to Bethel’s Family Christian Academy office)
2020-2021
24You can also read
