Welcome to Discovery Preschool.  We hope your whole family will enjoy our school and the friends you will make here.  This handbook has been written to describe our program, goals, policies and the myriad of practical details that go into making each school day as happy and successful as possible.  Please study the handbook and keep it for reference as it will answer many of your questions.

CORE VALUES

Compassion – Caring for each child who helps us create the Discovery family
Harmony – Partnering families with teachers to truly encourage each child
Interaction – Supporting each child in forming friendships and acquiring social skills
Learning – Engaging each child in creative, hands-on scholastic opportunities
Development – Building a positive self-image and a sense of self-esteem for each child

THE PROGRAM

PURPOSE

The purpose of this corporation shall be to operate a non-profit cooperative, licensed preschool for children ages 3 to 6 years of age and a summer program for a multi-age group to be determined by class sign up and parental needs.    Our curriculum is bias-free and developmentally based, focusing on the individual child’s social, emotional and intellectual needs.
Our professional staff encourages exploration and growth in a well-equipped environment that is stimulating, safe, consistent and nurturing.  We strive to enhance each child’s natural curiosity and love of learning.  Discovery Preschool provides opportunities for each child to master tasks that are appropriate to his or her individual level of development.
We are committed to working closely with parents toward the welfare of the whole family.  Parents are welcome to visit the school at any time; both prior to enrolling their child and during the time the child is at school. 

OBJECTIVES
Days are planned so that children will:     

• be safe and feel secure
• receive individual attention and affection
• develop satisfying relationships with other children and adults
• develop self-discipline
• experience successes in order to develop a positive self-image
• learn to respect the personal and property rights of others
• develop intellectual and physical skills

HISTORY
The Ripon Nursery School, the preschool’s first name, was founded in 1959 after the public schools no longer offered a 4-year-old Kindergarten.  One class of 13 students met in the Episcopal Church hall 5 days a week from 9:00-11:00 a.m.  The first teacher was Mrs. Delores Hunger.

MISSION

Discovery Preschool provides each child with the opportunity to build a positive self-image within an open, creative educational environment in which families and teachers work together.

RELIGIOUS POLICY/CULTURAL DIVERSITY

Discovery Preschool is a non-denominational school which does not emphasize any one religion, but will equally represent cultural traditions during holiday seasons.  It is also the school’s policy to foster the staff members and students to appreciate and hold a mutual respect for each other’s religious beliefs and cultural backgrounds.
STAFF QUALIFICATIONS
All of the teachers on the staff of Discovery Preschool have received special training in Early Childhood Development and Education which meets or exceeds state qualifications.  Teachers annually receive and document at preschool a minimum of 25 hours of continuing education.  Continuing education will include training on fire extinguisher use, emergency response procedures and Universal Procedures.  Teachers are in constant communication with each other discussing goals and development of your children.  Each month a summary of their meetings are typed and filed for reference.  Upon employment new staff will be oriented to school policies, DCF licensing rules, the code of ethics and confidentiality.  All teachers are certified in First Aid, CPR and AED, Shaken Baby Syndrome Prevention and Child Abuse and Neglect.  A physical examination which includes a TB test and documentation of immunization requirements shall be met by all staff. 
Discovery Preschool submits the names of persons in contact with the children to the State of Wisconsin’s Department of Justice for Criminal History Records. State law requires that persons working with children submit a self-disclosing Background Character Verification prior to employment and every 4 years thereafter.
 The requirement of the Criminal History Record became effective in January 1996 for all child care centers in Wisconsin.  The people whose names we submit to the Department of Justice are those of the preschool staff and hired or volunteer teacher substitutes.
CHILD ABUSE AND NEGLECT
Staff members are required by law to report any suspected child abuse or neglect. 

TERMS OF LICENSING

The preschool is licensed by the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services.  The terms of the license are:            Capacity: 19
Ages; 2 1/2 -10 years     Teacher/Child ratio: 1:10
The Department of Health and Family Services Rules and Regulations Handbook and inspection results are posted in the hallway at the adult drop off and pick up sign-in sheet.

WHAT DO CHILDREN LEARN AT PRESCHOOL?
Children develop skills, concepts, attitudes, self-direction, and relationships with others.  Although the preschool helps prepare children for Kindergarten, the program is not highly academic or competitive.  Children gain experience in writing and drawing; they are exposed to science, instructed in good nutrition, and taught good personal hygiene; they gain a sense of history, and take field trips within the community.  Many of the activities use music to enhance enjoyment.  Games and exercise stress experience, cooperation and fun, not competition or winning.
Parents are informed of the children’s activities through a monthly newsletter and are encouraged to participate in our open door policy by providing snacks for the class and by accompanying the children on field trips.  We hope that children will come away from preschool with the feeling that school and learning are fun.  Our intent is for each child to gain a positive self-worth that will lead to success in the future.

CLASS HOURS

Monday-Wednesday-Friday morning class hours are 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Children should not arrive before 8:20 a.m. and must be picked up by 11:10 a.m.
Monday-Tuesday-Thursday afternoon class hours are 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.  Children should not arrive before 12:20 p.m. and must be picked up by 3:40 p.m.
Tuesday-Thursday morning class hours are 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.  Children should not arrive before 8:20 a.m. and must be picked up by 11:10 a.m.

ADMISSION AND ENROLLMENT POLICY

Children must be 3 years old by October 1st, and toilet trained to attend Discovery Preschool.  Students may register at any time, if space is available.  Parents are encouraged to register early.  ENROLLMENT FOR THE FOLLOWING YEAR IS NOT AUTOMATIC.  Contact the current registrar for registration information.  The number of students enrolled is limited by the license agreement.  This number is based on the number of teachers and the size of the facility.
An enrollment form is required of all students on the first day of preschool.  If the enrollment form is not completed in full, the child will not be permitted to attend preschool and will have to return home with parents. (State regulations)
State law requires that all students complete the immunization forms no later than 15 days after the beginning of preschool.  (Certain exceptions may be granted.  Contact the preschool teachers for details.)                                                                                     
 It is required by the WI State Licensing Department that all children receive a medical exam every 2 years.  This exam should occur no earlier than six months prior to the beginning of preschool and no later than 90 days after the beginning of preschool.  Discovery Preschool does not discriminate per the American Disabilities Act.

PARENT/SCHOOL COMMUNICATIONS

ORIENTATION

An orientation meeting is scheduled each school year in August to hand in paperwork and answer parent questions. 

OPEN DOOR POLICY

Discovery Preschool has an open door policy.  Parents are encouraged to visit at any time their child is in the program.  Grandparents, siblings, relatives and friends are also welcome to visit.

VOLUNTEERING

At Discovery Preschool we welcome and encourage parents to volunteer with our daily activities and field trips.  Volunteers may also include grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, visiting relatives etc.  Volunteering may involve working with children in specific skill areas, reading and playing with children, general classroom assistance, behind the scenes project preparation and more.  Families who are not available to volunteer during class hours may assist with evening or weekend projects.  Ask the teacher if you are interested in providing us with extra assistance.

PARENT LENDING LIBRARY

A “Lending Library Cart” with books, pamphlets, etc. on child development and safety issues is available for parent use.  Please sign out materials and date borrowed in small notebook on library cart shelf.

BYLAWS & SCHOOL POLICIES

Copies of school policies and bylaws are available to parents on the lending library cart.  Additional information is available upon request.

SPECIAL EVENTS INFORMATION

Several bulletin boards are utilized for volunteer sign ups, special requests, family extra curricular activities, and more.  Notes are also sent home with special events information.

MONTHLY NEWSLETTERS & CALENDERS

Each month a calendar and newsletter will be sent home to update and inform parents/caregivers on planned curriculum, field trips and no school days.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES

We will be observing your child throughout the year to assess their development physically, emotionally, socially, cognitively, creatively, and in language skills.  Twice a year a “Child’s Skills Checklist” will be completed by the teachers.  This information will provide the basis for the parent-teacher conferences held in November/December and March/April each year.  Additional conferences can be held anytime if a parent or teacher requests one.
 

QUESTIONS FOR TEACHER AND BOARD

Your child’s adaptation and development in preschool is important.  If you have any questions the Director, Jan Kerch, is eager to assist and answer them.
She is available during school hours to talk to you in person or you may call her during lunch break, before or after classes at school 748-3493.
She can also be contacted evenings at her home 748-5434.
Board members are available for questions concerning program operations, fundraising, policies etc.  Please refer to board members phone numbers on page 2.

ACCESS TO CHILD’S RECORDS/CONFIDENTIALITY

The staff at Discovery Preschool is committed to maintaining confidentiality and lending support to help families achieve their goals.  Children’s records are accessible to the parents of the child at all times and preschool policies are governed by parental needs.  The children’s records are only accessible to the Director, teachers, Administrator and to the parents of the child.

CUSTODY CONCERNS

Children of parents who are divorced or separated must legally be released to the non-custodial parents by Wisconsin statutes.  This also includes releasing information to the non-custodial parent.  The only way we cannot do so is if we have a signed court document in the child’s file stating otherwise.

CHILDREN WITH MORE THAN ONE RESIDENCE

Contact the preschool at any time if more than one copy of information (handbooks, newsletters, etc.) is needed or if information needs to be sent to more than one address.  Discovery Preschool is happy to send multiple copies of information to all parents and/or guardians of enrolled children.
                                                                                                    
DAILY SCHEDULE

The following is an explanation of the daily learning experiences offered at Discovery Preschool.  Teachers attempt to be consistent with the sequence of the day’s activities to aid children in making smooth transitions.  However, sometimes learning opportunities warrant a revised schedule.

TRANSITIONS
Transitions are organized to minimize the amount of time that students wait in lines.  Alternate activities such as books and puzzles are encouraged for students who finish snack time, projects etc. before classmates.  Hand washing lines are minimized by using multiple sinks.

DROP-OFF AND PICK-UP OF CHILDREN

Transporters/Parents are required to accompany the student into the building and to the classroom door to assure their safety.  The preschool does not accept responsibility for children until they are in the classroom.  Children will only be allowed to leave the classroom when authorized people arrive at the school for pickup. 
All classes have a sign-in and sign-out sheet.  The sheets contain each child’s name and space for authorized pick-up and drop-off signature.  This process is necessary for child safety and in the case of a fire or other emergency, so that we can have accurate tabulation of each child present at school.  Changes for authorized pick-up must be submitted in writing.  The sign-in and sign-out sheets are also used as a record of your child’s attendance. 

ABSENTEE POLICY
Parents/guardians must call or write a note when your child does not attend a scheduled class.  In accordance with the Dept. of Health and Family Services, if a child is absent without prior or same day notification to the preschool, the following steps will occur:
-  A staff member will call the various contact numbers to determine the reason for the absence.
-  If no information is available to explain the absence, the preschool is required to call the DHFS licensing agent within 24 hours of the absence.

ARRIVAL

When children arrive they are greeted in a friendly and enthusiastic manner.  This activity is exceedingly important in establishing a sense of self-esteem in the child.  Children feel as though they are an important part of the group.  Children are assisted in hanging up their coats and school bags in the proper locker in the hallway.  A student sign-in/sign-out sheet with large traceable letters is provided for name practice upon arrival and departure.  Our center has established a hand washing health policy for all children and adults entering our classrooms.  This policy minimizes the possibility of spreading illness and lessens the chance of nut/peanut contaminants. 

ATTENDANCE MONITORING
Children are continuously monitored throughout the class day.  Staff will stop class activities and take a count of children.  Attendance counting is taken during transition times of circle time, snack, large motor, project time and more.  Field trip attendance monitoring is more frequent.  Please see Missing Child Policy and Field Trip Transportation Policy.

FREE TIME AND SOCIAL PLAY

During free time, children are permitted to play with toys, art easel, enjoy educational materials, explore the sensory table, and role play.  Free play is supervised play.  Teachers will be with the children at all times.  Free play improves social skills and aids in development of independence.

CIRCLE TIME & “SHOW & SHARE SOUND BOX”

This is a time when all children interact together.  Activities such as attendance, calendar, sharing and group discussion are done as part of circle time.
Calendar - children identify the date and day of the week.  This activity helps children develop sequencing skills, recognize numbers build vocabulary, and conceptualize time.
Show & Share- Each week six or fewer children are given the opportunity to bring an object or picture from home that starts with an assigned alphabet letter.  Children will place their Sound Box item in a covered basket in the hallway.  The Sound Box contents will be explored during circle time when children are given the opportunity to “show and share” about their special item.  Sound Box notes will be sent home in a monthly calendar format. 

MUSIC

Children learn songs, dances, finger-plays, rhythm exercises, poems, and are introduced to some musical instruments.  Music enhances other activities such as game playing and is an effective adjunct to learning skills and concepts.  Musical exercises help develop memory, language skills and is an enjoyable activity for all. A song chart is used to introduce pre-reading skills.

STORYTIME

Books, stories, puppet shows, video, and audio tape stories are integrated into the daily lesson.

SNACK

Children have one snack a day.  Children are taught to wash hands before snack as a part of good hygiene.
Children are encouraged to try new foods unless they have allergies, particularly strong aversions, or specialty diets such as vegetarian, kosher etc.
Children will not be forced or otherwise coerced into eating foods they do not want.  The snack menu for each class group is recorded in a notebook located on the adult sign-in table. 
Allergies- Teachers have a list of children with food and other allergies available in the snack room, field trip tote bag and main classroom.  Alternate snacks are offered to children with allergies.  Please keep staff informed of any allergy changes throughout the school year.

Peanut/Tree Nut Policy – The past few years Discovery Preschool has had an increase of students with peanut and/or tree nut allergies.  Some of our friends’ allergies are significant and can become life threatening.  The reality is that young children often drop, smear or wear their snacks.  Staff wash snack tables before and after each snack and sweep the floors.  However a peanut butter smear or nut filled granola crumb can be easily overlooked.  To increase the safety of our nut sensitive students, Discovery Preschool will serve NO NUT SNACKS in ALL CLASS GROUPS. 

Please check the ingredients of all purchased snacks.  Many snacks do not contain nuts but are manufactured in factories which process nut snacks.  For example many pretzels and animal crackers are processed in factories with peanut products.  Other products that often contain nut oils are Jelly Bellies, chocolate chips, granola bars, and breads. 

Please label or send the ingredients of any home-made snack to preschool.  If the staff feel that the snack of the day may contain nut products the snack will be gently exchanged for a safe snack and the original snack will be sent home with the snack child. 

Nutritious Snacks- One nutritious snack (which includes a beverage) is served midway through the class session.  Each week the parent of one of the children is asked to provide snacks. They are chosen in alphabetical order. Parents will be notified by note one week before they are to provide snacks.  Napkins and paper cups may be requested if needed.
Snack Ideas- All snacks must consist of two of the following:  Meat or meat alternative, vegetable or fruit or fruit juice, bread or bread alternative, milk.  Discovery preschool provides 100% juice and water with each snack. 

Meats
Chicken spread, chicken noodle soup, peanut butter, hard boiled egg, deviled egg, egg salad, mixed nuts, chili, deli ham slices, and sliced turkey.

Breads
Waffles, bagels, saltines, crescent rolls, crackers, banana bread, granola, graham crackers, Ritz crackers, English muffin, French toast sticks, biscuits, enriched egg rolls, cinnamon toast, soft tortilla shells, vanilla wafers, bran muffins, soft bread sticks, banana muffins, corn muffins, donut, oatmeal cookies, dry cereal, rice cakes, whole wheat crackers, cheat think crackers, bread pudding, English muffin pizza, zucchini bread, cereal bar, gingerbread, rye bread, rice pudding, pumpkin bread, coffee cake, blueberry muffins, pancakes, oatmeal muffin, pretzels, bread sticks, corn bread, cinnamon rolls. 

Vegetables/Fruits
Kiwi, watermelon, pineapple, honeydew, melon, red grapes, blueberries, cinnamon applesauce, fruit cocktail, mixed raw vegetables, orange sections, cantaloupe, strawberries, applesauce, baked apples w/ cinn, banana, cucumber slices, pears, apple slices, peaches, carrots, broccoli, frozen 100% juice pops, pizza sauce. 

Milk
Vanilla yogurt, cheese dip, milk, string cheese, cheese curds, cheese cubes, cottage cheese
Food is discussed during preschool sessions.  Children learn the importance of good nutrition and proper preparation of food.  Some cooking experiences are used in conjunction with instructional units.

LESSON OF THE DAY/LEARNING CENTER

The curriculum is created and organized by the preschool Director.  Lessons are organized into units.  Monthly newsletters will notify parents and children as to the content.
Lessons are presented in a developmentally appropriate format and integrated into daily activities.  This includes a hands-on approach through craft projects, science experiments, cooking, and manipulatives.  Lessons are designed to help children develop vocabulary and to create an awareness of new subject matter.

LARGE MOTOR ACTIVITIES

Basic motor (physical) skills in a variety of games, activities and exercises will be taught.  The children will have access to bikes, balls, hoops and balance beams in our large carpeted gym.  Additional skills will be added later on.  These games are intended to enhance gross motor ability and to stimulate cooperation.  Under no circumstances is competition to win a game or exercise the focal point.

FIELD TRIPS

Field Trips are planned to offer enrichment experiences to the children.  Parents will be informed of the specific date, times and places of field trips through monthly newsletters and/or special notes.  All parents must sign the field trip permission form in the registration packet to allow their child’s field trip attendance. 
Discovery Preschool does not have an outdoor play area.  However we try to incorporate outdoor activities such as walking and exploring the outdoors in the side yard or the near by park whenever possible. 
Parents are encouraged to attend field trips as chaperones.  Siblings are welcome for most fieldtrips.  Siblings are the sole responsibility of the parent/guardian for supervision. 
Discovery Preschool carries liability insurance.  Children’s emergency cards are a first-aid kit is taken on all field trips.  During field trips children are continuously monitored for attendance.  Staff and volunteers are asked to do a count of students several times upon arrival, departure and at the field trip event. 

FIELD TRIP TRANSPORTATION POLICY

The State of Wisconsin has increased the safety laws regarding transportation of children.  To best meet the safety requirements Discovery preschool will no longer arrange carpooling from preschool for field trips.  Parents/guardians will now be responsible to provide or arrange transportation to and from field trips.  Example:  on fire station field trip day, parents/guardians will transport their child directly to the fire station and not to the preschool.  Parents/guardians will provide transportation at the end of the field trip back to the preschool or to home.  Parents may arrange carpooling with other parents.  Discovery Preschool is not liable for transportation arrangements. 

CLEAN-UP

Children are asked to help in clean-up activities.  Personal responsibility, cooperation, and social development are enhanced.

DISMISSAL/ PICK-UP

Children are to be picked up with-in 5 minutes of the end of class time.  Delays of 15 minutes of pick-up time need to be phoned into the preschool.  Continuous late pick-ups will be documented and brought to the attention of the Board of Directors.
Pick-up persons need to enter the building to pick up students.  Pick-up persons will sign out the children they are taking out of school.  Children will be released to persons who are authorized to do so as stated on the child enrollment form.  Changes in authorized persons for pick up must be submitted in writing.  Children will not be released to pick-up persons who appear to be under the influence of alcohol and/or illegal drugs.  An alternate authorized pick up person will be contacted and/or the local police.

SPECIAL MEDICAL & LEARNING CONSIDERATIONS

The staff at Discovery Preschool is experienced in working with various learning styles and with some medical conditions; therefore, Discovery does not discriminate and strives to accommodate and celebrate the child with medical conditions or special learning considerations.  However, any unique requirements may subject a child’s admittance to a trial period; during which time, Discovery staff will assess our ability to provide a safe and adequate learning environment to the child with special needs.  After this trial period, a conference between Discovery and the child’s parents will be held to discuss the child’s future enrollment status (please see Withdrawal Policy, on page 22 of this handbook).  It is imperative that parents discuss any health issues or learning challenges, regarding their child, before the preschool year begins and continue close communications with Discovery’s staff, throughout the school year, to promote on-going teacher awareness and ensure the best possible learning environment for the child.
                                                                     
Medical conditions may include

• food and insect allergies
• asthma
• Cystic Fibrosis
• seizures
• heart conditions
• Lyme disease
• cancer
• diabetes, etc

Many conditions or allergies can be considered life threatening; therefore, parents must keep in close contact with Discovery’s Staff regarding new developments and any necessary medication to be administered on premises, during preschool hours.

Special learning considerations may include

• autism
• autism spectrum
• genetic disorders
• Down’s Syndrome
• anger management
• intense fear and/or anxiety

If a child has already been evaluated by the public school system, we will work with the IEP (Individual Education Plan) established.  Parents are encouraged to submit and keep the preschool teachers current of changes in the IEP.

*A posting of children with special medical concerns/allergies is placed inside the first aid cabinet, emergency/fieldtrip backpack and snack area cabinet.  Staff and parent volunteers are informed of the posting.

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DISCIPLINE AND GUIDANCE POLICY

At Discovery Preschool, the term guidance is used for several reasons.  It is a positive term and it implies working WITH the child to develop internal control of his/her behavior.  Our goal is to encourage the children to become creative, independent, and responsible human beings.  This involves learning to make responsible choices and accepting the consequences of their choices. 

Guidance takes several forms:

1. Environment – A place designed for children.  The furniture is child sized with many hands-on experiences.
2. Logical Rules – Such as keeping our hands to ourselves and taking care of the learning environment.  These are discussed with the children as well as the reasons why such rules are needed.
3. Curriculum – Is developmentally appropriate and based on the children’s interests and level of readiness.
4. Positive Behavior – We reinforce the behaviors we encourage and offer praise when we catch them being good.
5. Redirection – Often interesting a child in another activity can eliminate a potential difficulty.  We might ask a child to help us or send them to a different area to play.
6. Positive Reminder – Telling the child what we want them to do rather than using “no” or “don’t”.
7. Renewal Time/Time Out – Occasionally a child needs to be removed from the situation for a brief time, not exceeding 5 minutes, allowing them to consider alternate behavior.

Any on-going situations will be discussed with the parents to ensure a cooperative approach.  Please feel free to discuss any questions or concerns. 
Note:  No corporal punishment will be allowed.  This is defined as the use of negative physical touching (spanking, slapping, pinching, etc.).  No unusual punishment will be allowed (humiliation, ridicule, threat, coercion, etc.).

CRYING, DISTRAUGHT, AND FUSSING BEHAVIORS

Our teachers, with patience, warmth and respect will guide and assist children who are crying, fussing and distraught.  Children will be comforted and their feelings validated.  Teachers will prompt children to verbalize the cause of their sadness and then assist the child in finding a solution.  Teachers will report to parents when their child has a distraught or fussy day.  In the event that the child is inconsolable for the majority of the class period a parent will be called.  If a child is frequently distraught, crying, or fussy, the teachers will work with the parents in developing an age appropriate and positive course of action to assist the child. 

CHRONIC DISRUPTIVE BEHAVIOR
We will make every effort to work with the parents of children having difficulties at preschool.  We are here to serve and protect all of our children.  Children displaying chronic disruptive behavior which has been determined to be upsetting to the physical or emotional well being of another child may require the following actions:
Initial Consultation – The Director may require the parents of any child who attends Discovery Preschool to meet for a conference.  The problem will be defined on paper.  The goals will be established and the parents will be involved in creating approaches towards solving the problem.  With parent permission Discovery Preschool staff may consult outside agencies to assist with the development of an educational plan to best meet the child’s needs. 
Second Consultation – If the initial plan for helping the child fails, the parents will again be required to meet with the Director.  Another attempt will be made to identify the problem, outline a new approach and discuss the consequences if progress is not apparent. 
Suspension – When the previous attempts have been followed and no progress has been made toward solving the problem, the child may be suspended from preschool indefinitely.  The Board of Directors and the Director may immediately suspend a child at anytime he/she exhibits a behavior which is harmful to him/herself or others.  A parent may be called from work at anytime the child exhibits uncontrollable behavior that cannot be modified by the preschool staff.  The parent may be asked to take the child home immediately.  Suspensions from preschool vary from a few hours to an indefinite period of time. 

The Board of Directors President is informed by the preschool Director of students with special concerns.  Parents/guardians with questions involving preschool practices are welcome to speak to the Director and/or Board of Directors President.

HEALTH POLICIES

SANITARY PROCEDURES

Sanitary procedures at the preschool involve hand washing at regular intervals, before snacks, after toileting, after using tissues, sneezing and coughing.  Sanitation of toys and materials that have come in contact with children’s mouths or body spills are disinfected.  Cleaning of classroom materials occurs weekly or as needed.  Universal precautions (of non-latex gloves, bleach/water solutions) are used to clean body spills.  Contaminated materials are disposed of or packaged and kept separated from children and staff. 

DAILY OBSERVATIONS

State law requires that a daily observation of the child upon arrival at the school will be made by a member of the staff.  Any evidence of unusual bruises, contusions, lacerations and burns will be noted on the child’s record, in the medical log, and reported to Fond du Lac County officials.  Confidentiality of the log entries is maintained by staff.

FIRST AID

If a child has a minor injury at Discovery Preschool, the staff will wash the injury with soap and water, apply bandages and ice packs as necessary.  The injury will be reported to parents and documented in the medical log.  The State guidelines do not allow us to use anti-bacterial cream, peroxide etc.  If the injury is more involved, parents will be notified immediately and if necessary the “Serious Injury” Policy will be enacted.
                                                                                                        

SERIOUS INJURY/ON AND OFF THE SITE

In the event of a serious injury or illness “911” is called and Ripon Guardian Ambulance and Ripon Medical Center used.  Parents will be notified as soon as possible.  The child’s file will follow without delay to maintain parents’ medical wishes.

MEDICATION

Whenever possible, parents should administer medications at home.  If it is necessary for teachers to administer medications, a required physician signed medication form with doctor’s name, drug name and dosage must be completed.  Teachers will document administered drugs, time and date in a medical log.
All medications are locked in a small metal box and if necessary refrigerated.  Over the counter drugs of Tylenol, cough syrup or sunscreen can not be administered without a medical permission form.
In the event that a medication is missed or an error made in the distribution of the medication, the child’s parent/guardian will be called.  Staff will follow the parent/guardian directions to administering the medication.  The error will be documented and initialed in the medical log. 
Sunscreen and insect repellent may only be applied upon the written authorization of the parent.  Parents will specify the ingredient strength of the sunscreen and repellent. 

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS
Discovery Preschool posts emergency phone numbers of poison control, ambulance, police, child abuse, social services, National Response Centers in areas readily available for staff and volunteers. 

UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS
All persons exposed to blood or body fluids shall wash their hands immediately with soap and warm water.  Single use disposable gloves shall be worn if there is contact with blood and/or body fluids.  Spills of vomit, urine, feces, blood or other body fluids will be cleaned with a disinfectant.  

SMOKING

Smoking is prohibited in all areas of the preschool building and parking area

SICK CHILDREN/REPORTING COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

If your child becomes ill at school, he/she will be moved away from the other children, but within sight and sound of a staff member, until a parent or other responsible person arrives to take the child home. 
Discovery Preschool must be notified by the parents of the child if a child has a confirmed communicable disease or nuisance condition (e.g., head lice, scabies, pinworm, etc.). Discovery Preschool will notify the public school nurse.
If a child has been ill with infectious hepatitis, infectious mononucleosis, meningitis, or tuberculosis, the child must have a doctor’s written permission before returning to preschool. 
If a child has been ill with an illness other than stated above, (e.g., strep throat, conjunctivitis, chicken pox, measles, etc.) the child may return to school as their physician advises.

CALLING PRESCHOOL WHEN A CHILD IS SICK OR ON VACATION

A call from parents when a child is absent from school is required by law.  Please refer to Absentee Policy (page 8 of this handbook). 

WHEN TO KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME
Your child’s health and well-being is of major importance to us.  We want to help keep your child healthy while attending our preschool.  In order to keep the majority of the children healthy, it is necessary that ill children not be present at school.  If your child displays any of the symptoms of a communicable illness listed below please keep your child at home.  If your child becomes ill during the class time, parents or authorized persons on your enrollment form will be called to remove your child from school.  Children who are ill and attend school jeopardize the health of other children, in addition to exposing their own vulnerable immune system to new viruses or bacteria.

FEVER - Oral temperature of 100 or higher.  Child should be fever-free for 24 hours before attending school.
VOMITING- Your child should not attend preschool if they have vomited within the last 24 hours.  Children who vomit at school will be sent home.
DIARRHEA - Your child should not attend preschool if they have had three or more loose stools within the last 12 hours.
RESPIRATORY - Difficult/rapid breathing, severe coughing, high pitched croupy or whooping sound may indicate a more serious illness.  Children with these symptoms should not attend school.
EYES/NOSE - Yellow or green thick mucous or pus draining from nose or eyes.  Eyes appearing pink on the white area with itching and draining could indicate pink-eye.  Children with any of these symptoms should stay home from school.
RASHES - Rashes, open sores that can not be covered, draining or weepy rashes, and unusual fluid filled blisters require the child to stay home from school.  Rashes with fever are particularly contagious.
HEAD LICE - Child needs to be treated with special shampoo and hair combed free of nits (eggs and cases).  Child’s clothing including all bedding, coats, hats and car seat must be washed and/or sprayed with head lice spray.  Child needs to be treated 24 hours before returning to school.                                                                                         

In the back of the handbook is a list of communicable diseases, symptoms and contagion periods.  Please keep your child from school if they exhibit any of these illnesses.  Children should be symptom free for 24 hours before returning to school.  If your child has a communicable disease, please notify the preschool so we can communicate the information to other parents and, if necessary, report it to the county nurse.  The names of children (and family) will be kept confidential.  It is not the intent to exclude children with mild colds or coughs or any of the above symptoms due to non-communicable causes such as allergies, special medical conditions, etc.  If you have any questions please feel free to contact the staff.  Thank you for your help.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

FIRE

Children are supervised by teachers at all times.  Children are taught that they are to stop whatever they are doing when they hear the fire signal.  Teachers will direct them to meet at a safe classroom exit.  Children and teachers are taught to evacuate the building regardless of the extent of fire or amount of smoke.  Lead teacher brings “Emergency file” tote bag with class list, emergency information, first aid kit and closes the door.
Children are taught to follow and walk out of the classroom door, exit and meet outside the building.  Attendance will be taken by the teachers to determine that no one is left in the building.

TORNADO

In the event of a tornado siren or notification to the teachers of dangerous weather, teachers will direct children to immediately stop their activity and line up at the classroom doors.  If the weather warrants immediate safe shelter, the teachers will escort the children into the windowless teacher prep room.  Lead teacher will take the “Emergency File” tote bag with her and take attendance.  If the weather is not immediately threatening, teachers will escort students to a safe shelter area in the basement.  An emergency bag is stored there with candles, radio, class lists, and first aid supplies.  Lead teacher will take attendance.

MISSING CHILD

Our preschool is located in a building with several interesting rooms and alcoves.  Occasionally a child enjoys “hiding” or “exploring” away from the group.  When a teacher observes a child is missing the following procedure will follow:  One teacher will remain with the large group in a confined area.  The other teacher will make a quick tour of the building and parking lot.  If the child is not located within a few minutes, the local police will be notified.  Parents will also be notified.
Teachers have almost always immediately located all the “hiding” children in the past.  It would be very helpful for parents to discuss the safety of staying with the group and that “hiding” is not a good game at school.

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS PLANS
Emergency Preparedness Plans provided by the Fond du Lac County Emergency Management are found in the emergency backpack used for fieldtrips which is stored in the classroom.  Emergency plans are also available in the basement “storm kit”, parent information shelf and file cabinet.  Evacuation plans for fire, tornado, dangerous intruder, chemical release, off-site evacuation and flash flood are posted in handbooks as well as classrooms, basement and hallway. 
Emergency phone numbers for fire, police, poison center, electric, gas and water utility are posted by telephones and in the handbooks.
The handbook outlines staff responsibilities procedures, supply locations and emergency contact persons.

CODE ORANGE: DANGEROUS INTRUDER

Your child’s safety is important to us.  For this reason, we have devised a protocol to be used in the event of a dangerous intruder.  If teachers determine that a visitor could be harmful to children, children will be quickly and quietly counted for attendance and gathered into the classroom.  A teacher will lock the classroom doors.  A shade on the classroom door will be pulled to obstruct view into our room.  The Ripon police will be called.  Teachers will remain with children until the police determine the situation is non-threatening.
Discovery Preschool has worked in cooperation with the Ripon Police Department in developing this DANGEROUS INTRUDER POLICY.  Our emergency policies and floor plans of safe places, tornado shelters, and fire escape have been submitted to the Ripon Police Department and emergency personnel.

MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

MATERIALS NEEDED
Various materials will be requested at the beginning of the school year.  A notice will be sent as to what is required.  Occasionally teachers will make requests for specific items needed for school projects or small fees to cover additional costs.  Notes will be sent home if these supplies are needed. A tote bag or back pack is needed to take home art projects and notes, etc.  Children are required to wear shoes at all times.
PLEASE LABEL ALL OF YOUR CHILD’S BELONGINGS (Especially boots, mittens, coats)
Wet or soiled clothing will be changed with preschool clothing, underwear, etc. kept on hand for that purpose.  Should your child require a change of clothing, we ask that you launder and return school clothing as soon as possible.

CANCELLED SCHOOL DAYS

Teacher Absences: In the event that one teacher is absent, a parent volunteer may act as a substitute teacher.  In the rare event that both teachers need to be absent from school on the same day and substitutes are unavailable, classes will be cancelled and rescheduled at the Board of Directors discretion.  Parents will be notified by telephone should this occur.
Dangerous Weather/Snow Days: Generally Discovery Preschool cancels school when Ripon Public Schools are cancelled.  Closings will be announced on WTCX 96.1 FM, WRPN AM 1600 and WRPN 90.1 FM.  Closings will also be posted on the following website:  www.wrpnam.com.  Snow make up days are scheduled at the Board of Directors discretion.  If public schools have a 1 hour delay, the preschool will run on time.  If public schools have a 2 hour delay, the AM class will be cancelled.  The PM class will be held at the regular time. 

PHYSICAL BUILDING AND EQUIPMENT
Discovery Preschool shall comply with applicable state and local building codes.  The building environment shall:

• Not be less than 67 F degrees
• More than 80 F degrees, if above 80 F degrees fans will be used for air circulation
• Have a workable telephone on the premises

Discovery Preschool will cancel classes if the building environment does not meet state licensing standards:  no electricity, no heat etc.

PARKING

Parking in private driveways near the preschool building is not permitted.  Please be observant of handicapped parking areas directly in front of the school.  Safety in the parking lot is of paramount importance.  Always walk with your child to your vehicle and alert them to the danger of traffic entering and exiting the parking lot area. 
                                                                                      

PET VISITS

Students often request that their family pet visit the preschool.  Animal visits are educational and informative in the classroom.  Please keep in mind that your pet is entering an atmosphere of 19 pairs of excited hands to touch and explore.  Discovery requests that pet visits be approved by a teacher, in advance, in order to accommodate classmate allergies, fear of animals and existing State guidelines. 

*Please note:  State guidelines do not allow snakes, reptiles, poisonous animals, and parrots or macaws in a preschool setting.

CLASSROOM PETS
Parents are notified of the presence of pets and animals in the classroom at the orientation meeting in August and/or by written notices.  Children are not permitted to handle animal feces or clean animal homes.

FUNDRAISERS

Discovery Preschool conducts various fundraisers throughout the school year.  Parents are expected to participate in the fundraisers.  With the money raised through fundraisers we are able to keep tuition affordable and continue to provide a quality experience for the children.  Our parents have been very supportive of our fundraising and we appreciate everyone’s efforts. 

Discovery Preschool participates in Pick ‘n Save’s “We Care” program.  Each time you use your Advantage Card at the checkout, 1% of your total grocery purchase will be donated to Discovery.  When you apply for your Advantage Card (or if you already have one) simply designate Discovery Preschool (id #169400) as your choice to receive the money.  You can use your Advantage card at any Pick ‘n Save store.  Pick ‘n Save tallies the amount of the donation we receive and mails us a check four times a year.  The program has been very beneficial for Discovery. 

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
Student’s birthdays are recognized at preschool with the celebration of a birthday card and blowing out the candles on the “cement birthday cake.”  The birthday child is not expected to bring a class treat.  However, birthday treats are acceptable if the family chooses to send them.  As a form of consideration toward “little feelings”, Discovery respectfully requests that birthday invitations not be distributed during class hours; instead, please feel free to use the class list to address envelopes for mailing.

FEES AND BILLING PROCEDURES

FEES

A nonrefundable registration fee is charged for each child.    A supply fee is also charged for each child per year.  A contract will be issued for each child with the terms of tuition and payment clearly stated.  Other minimal fees may be requested for field trips and/or special projects.

SCHOLARSHIPS

A scholarship fund is in place, for children, who may be unable to participate in our preschool program due to financial or other hardship.  Application forms are available from the Registrar, Director or Board President upon request.

WITHDRAWAL

INITIATED BY PARENTS

Fees are refundable if the immediate family is moving out of town or if a lengthy illness occurs.  The preschool requests written notification 30 days prior to the move.  If you want your child to return after an illness, you will be required to continue to pay the tuition to hold that child’s spot. If not this spot may be filled.
 Fees are refundable within 30 days of enrollment if the parent believes the child is not adjusting well to preschool.

INITIATED BY TEACHERS

If the teachers believe that the child is not adjusting well to preschool, the teacher will schedule a conference with the parents to discuss the situation.  The parents and teachers will come to a mutual decision about the child continuing preschool.

DISCHARGE POLICY
Discovery Preschool reserves the right to cancel the enrollment of a child for the following reasons:

• Non payment or excessive late payment of fees
• Not observing the rules of the preschool as outlined in this handbook
• Child has special needs which we cannot adequately meet with our current staffing patterns
• Physical and/or verbal abuse of staff or children by parent or child

REFUND SCHEDULE

Twenty percent of the yearly fee is nonrefundable.  The remaining 80% of the yearly fee is pro-rated.  For example, if a family is paying in one payment (MWF) and decides to withdraw their child after one-half year, the refund would be as follows:

Amt. Nonrefundable: 0.20 x $875.00 = $175.00
Amt. Refundable:       $875.00-$175.00 = $700.00
Prorated:                     $700.00 x .50 = $350.00   
Final Refund:               $350.00                      

PAYMENT SCHEDULE

Payments are due by one of the following options OR by special arrangements made with the Treasurer.

Monday-Wednesday-Friday AM

one payment of $875.00 due by orientation

two payments of $437.50 1st due by orientation
                                          2nd due by January 4, 2010
Monthly payments of $98.00 due by the 1st day of the month.

Tuesday-Thursday AM

one payment of $600.00 due by orientation

two payments of $300.00 1st due by orientation
      2nd due by January 4, 2010
Monthly payments of $67.00 due by the 1st day of the month.

Monday-Tuesday-Thursday PM
one payment of $1050.00 due by orientation
two payments of $525.00 1st due by orientation
                                          2nd due by January 4, 2010
Monthly payments of $117.00 due by the 1st day of the month

Payment not received on time will result in a $25.00 late fee.
Any payment by check that results in non-sufficient funds will be charged a $25.00 fee.

MULTIPLE CHILD DISCOUNT

Families having multiple tuitions in the same school year will receive a 10% discount for the second child.  Please contact the office manager for more information.

PRESCHOOL:  WHAT TO EXPECT

Based on our experience and the advice of experts, the following behaviors may be experienced by your child.  All of these behaviors are normal.

• Your child may become overly tired and irritable on preschool days.  This may cause him/her to be overactive and noisy.  This new experience is very stimulating.  Give your child a snack or lunch and a quiet time or nap.
• Your child may act very differently on the days you volunteer at school.  He/she may exhibit negative behavior.  Don’t be embarrassed or push him/her away.  Give him/her the attention he/she needs.  It may be hard for your child to share you with so many others.
• Your normally outgoing child may be very quiet at school or vice versa.  Accept this and let him/her enter at his/her own pace.  Many young children prefer to watch first before entering play or a group.
• Your child may do things at home for him/herself that he/she will not do at preschool and vice versa.
• Your child may pick up behavior or language you dislike.  This can happen anywhere, not just in school.  Relax and do not make an issue of it.
• Your child will not necessarily “play together” with other children.  He/she will play alone or along side others.  He/she may go quickly from one activity to another, spending little time with any other children.
• Your child may come home spotted with paint or grass stains but glowing with wonder over his experiences.  Don’t scold, threaten or bribe.
• Your child may suddenly not want to come to school or will want you to stay.  Look for the reasons.  Talk with the teacher.  Don’t scold, threaten or bribe.
• Don’t expect your child to be equally happy every day.  We all have ups and downs.  Part of preschool is learning about life and accepting its ups and downs.
• Do not always expect your child to learn facts or complete songs, or bring home a finished product suitable for framing.  He/she is learning skills, developing coordination and developing happy, well adjusted attitudes towards others and life.

THANK YOU
In closing, we want to thank you for sharing your children with us.  We like to think that we have fun as well as offer the highest quality of care for each child at our preschool.  We never take for granted the special gift you share with us………your child.
We hope that you will be pleased with the care your child receives at preschool, but it is also our wish that you will let us know if you have any concerns or questions.  Discovery Preschool is a service and we realize that we are in business only as long as we meet the needs of the families we serve. Please let us know how we can assist you and your family.

STAFF

Jan Kerch, Director/Lead Teacher
603 Eureka Street, Ripon WI  54971
920-748-5434

Deanna Kunkel, Teacher
243 Washington St, Ripon WI  54971
920-748-6060
 

Lea Salas, Office Manager / Admin Assistant / Registrar
N7911 Union Street, Ripon WI. 54971
920-748-9855

2009-10 BOARD of DIRECTORS

Discovery preschool is not affliated with any religious organization.

Children attending Discovery Preschool receive no less than 100 days of education per year.