Parent Handbook
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Douglas County Preschools
Douglas County Preschools
Dear Parents,
Welcome to Douglas County Preschools! The preschool staff is looking forward to another excellent school year.
The information presented in this handbook is intended to help you be an informed member of the Douglas County Preschool community. We know that parent involvement and ongoing communication is crucial to the success of the preschool program.
We are privileged to have a highly dedicated professional staff. Please do not hesitate to call us or your child’s teacher at anytime during the school year. We welcome your input and hope you will be a frequent visitor to our classrooms.
Sincerely,
Kerry Goudy Early Childhood Coordinator 303-387-0815
Mary DeLamar Early Childhood Coordinator 303-387-0814
Table of Contents
History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Curriculum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Licensing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Child Welfare . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Staff . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Child Find . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.4 Tuition and Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.5 Arrival and Departure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.6 Snow Days/ Delayed Start/School Closing . . . . p.6 Hot Weather . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.6 Tornado & Fire Drills . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.6 Student Illness . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Student Accident or Injury . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Liability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Toilet Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Snacks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.7 Birthdays . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Closing Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Withdrawing from the Program . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Observation/Parent Volunteers . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Visitor Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Conferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Change of Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Toys/Weapons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 School Bags . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.8 Collection of Money . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.9 Field Trips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.9 Identifying Where Children Are at All Times . . . p.9 Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.9 Discipline . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.9 Registration . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.9 Update Log . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . p.10
Douglas County Preschools
History During the early 1970’s, public schools were mandated to develop a “Child Find” process which would provide free screening and evaluation services for children from birth to 21 years of age. The purpose of including children from birth to 5 years in this mandate was to identify developmental concerns early so parents of preschoolers could obtain help for their children before they started public school.
In 1979, Douglas County began a preschool program to meet the needs of 3 and 4 year olds identified with developmental delays. The program meets all requirements of ADA and IDEA. The program was successful in meeting the individualized needs of the children as well as providing a quality preschool education. Many families requested a high quality preschool experience for their typical children. Positive benefits were noted by both parents and staff when all children were included and educated together. In 1991, the preschool expanded the program to include community preschoolers on a space available basis, supported by community student tuition. Through an inclusive preschool setting, the learning needs of all children are met in the most respectful and positive way.
Curriculum The curriculum is designed for preschool aged students and consists of large and small group activities which encourage language, fine/gross/visual motor development, preschool concepts, literacy, math, science, social skills, and thinking/play skills. The curriculum is delivered through a balance of child-directed and teacher-directed learning activities, with instructional strategies that are appropriate for young learners.
Licensing We are a licensed program through the Colorado Department of Human Services. For additional information regarding licensing consult the Division of Child Care at (303)866-5958, 1575 Sherman St., Denver, CO 80203.
Child Welfare For child care, child welfare, adult protection, and financial, food or medical programs, and Neighbor Network contact the Douglas County Department of Human Services, Division of Child Welfare at (303) 866-5932, 1575 Sherman St., Denver, CO 80203.
Staff Each preschool classroom is staffed with a Preschool Teacher and Preschool Assistant. The transdisciplinary model of service also includes an Early Childhood Special Education Teacher, Special Education Assistant, Speech/Language Specialist, Occupational Therapist, Social Worker, and Psychologist.
Child Find Child Find provides free developmental screening and evaluation services for children from birth to 5 years. Children identified with physical or developmental challenges receive intervention services through the school district preschool programs, and through specialized groups (speech groups and motor groups). For additional information or to arrange an assessment appointment call 303-387-0800. Tuition and Fees The preschool is a self-funded program. Although the school district makes space available to the preschool and provides administrative approval and support, all operating costs, salaries, supplies and materials are generated by registration fees and student tuition. In addition to direct teacher-child classroom contact time, student tuition covers teacher planning, open house, meetings, trainings, and daily setup. Tuition is based on 36 weeks of preschool, with the fee divided into 9 monthly payments. Fall, Winter, and Spring breaks are not included in the 36 weeks of preschool. Tuition covers only those weeks school is in session.
You are responsible for paying tuition if your child misses for vacation, illness, or is withdrawn from the program within a given month. If you prepay for the year we will make adjustments for a refund only in that situation. Additionally, we do not refund tuition due to weather or building maintenance issues.
Tuition is due the fifteen of the month August through April. If payment is not received by the 1st of the next month a $15.00 late fee will be assessed. Termination from the preschool program may occur following one month of non-payment of tuition. Notice of termination will be in writing. The tuition account will then be turned over to a collection agency. Accounts must be current to pre-register for the following school year. Checks returned from the bank will be assessed a $35.00 charge.
Tuition Agreement Form Please initial each item to indicate your understanding and acceptance of this tuition agreement.
_____Tuition for a 2-day a week program is $150.00 per month and the 4-day a week program is $300.00 a month.
_____ A nonrefundable Registration Fee of $95.00, per student, is due upon acceptance of a preschool . position
_____Monthly tuition is due the 15th of each month. If payment is not received by the 1st of the next month, a $15.00 late fee will be assessed.
_____Termination from the preschool program may occur following one month of non-payment of tuition. Notice of termination will be in writing. The tuition account will then be turned over to a collection agency.
_____Checks returned due to non-sufficient funds will be assessed a $35.00 charge.
_____Your child must be picked up from preschool on time. After the 3rd late pickup, of 15 minutes or more, your child would no longer be eligible for the program.
_____As stated in the Preschool Handbook, there is no reduction of fees when my child is ill or on vacation.
_____Parent/guardian must sign child in and out of preschool daily.
I understand and agree to abide by these policies regarding my child’s enrollment in the Douglas County Preschool Program. Child’s Name: ______________________________________________
Parent or Legal Guardian _______________________________Date: _____________
Arrival and Departure The preschool hours are set by each classroom site. It is mandatory to sign your child in and out of the preschool program. Children will not be allowed to leave the classroom by themselves. Your preschool staff will outline drop off and pick up procedures. Children will be released to adults other than parents who are authorized to pick them up. Picture ID will be required at pick up time.
**Your child must be picked up from preschool on time. When a child is left at school for more than 15 minutes, the teacher will first contact the emergency numbers. If no one can be contacted, the teacher will wait an additional 15 minutes and try to contact the emergency numbers again. If no one can be contacted at that time, law enforcement or the Department of Human Services will be called. After the 3rd incidence of late pickup, your child will no longer be eligible for the program.
Snow Days/Delayed Start/School Closure Delayed Opening/School Closure: Weather and road conditions can close or delay the start of the preschool day. The preschool follows the School District decision on delays and closures. Beware: Closure can occur for an individual school, region or entire District. Parents are asked to listen to the radio, the TV, or go to the District website for the announcement of a school closing or a delayed school start time. During a “snow day” or school closing, the teachers are not required to come to school. Tuition is not affected when there is a delayed opening or a school closure.
Inclement Weather Notification Stations District web address: www.dcsdk12.org
Television Stations: Channel 2 KWGN Channel 7 KMGH Channel 4 KCNC Channel 9 KUSA
Radio Stations: KOA 850 AM KYGO 99.5 FM KWBI 91.1 FM KAZY 106.1 FM KLZ 46 AM KOSI 101.1 FM KEZW 1430 AM KHOW 95.7 FM KHOW 630 AM KBCO 97.3 FM KNUS 710 AM KCFR 90.1 FM KRXY/MIX 107.5 FM KXKL 105 FM KOOL 105 FM KRZN/XL100 100 FM KS 104 FM KRZN/XL100 760 AM KGME 1390 AM (Spanish Speaking)
Hot Weather/Cold Weather Please send you child to school prepared for the weather. Hot Weather Tips: sun screen applied by parent prior to arrival, hat, and sun glasses. Cold Weather Tips: coat, boots, gloves, and hat.
Tornado, Fire Drills and Other Emergencies As required by Douglas County School District and The State of Colorado Division of Child Care, we periodically practice and document fire and tornado drills. Evacuation routes are outlined for all spaces utilized within the school. The Emergency Response Procedure is posted in licensed areas of the school building. Staff is trained in fire and safety procedures prior to working with children.
Student Illness The parent is the best judge of whether a child is well or not. Please take time to be sure your child is completely well before leaving home. It is the goal of our department to keep staff and students healthy. Please adhere to these guidelines:
Please notify the school if your child has a contagious illness or will be absent. If a child becomes ill at school, the parent will be called and will be expected to pick the child up from school.
Student Accident or Injury In case of accident and/or injury parents will be notified immediately and we will call 911 if necessary. The child will be kept safe and comfortable. Injuries are documented.
Liability Colorado State Law defines the District’s responsibilities for injuries to children, or damage to their property in connection with these activities. Generally, the District’s liability is limited to its involvement in transporting children and has immunity from most other claims, such as those resulting from the general supervision of children. The District does not have any medical, dental, or hospitalization insurance covering children for injuries incurred in school or on field trips. The District does carry insurance coverage related to the transportation of children, as long as they are passengers in District vehicles or in specially authorized private vehicles. The program is not responsible for subsequent treatment or medical expense incurred after the administration of first aid.
Health The Colorado State Department of Human Services require Health and Emergency forms (supplied by the school) to be completed and returned to the school by the first day of school or the child will not be allowed to attend.
The procedure for storing and administering children’s medicines and delegation of medication is in compliance with Section 12-38-132, C.R.S., of the “Nurse Practice Act”. Any medications to be taken by the child must follow the district policy: “Elementary ( Pre K- 6 ): Prescription medication will be released to students at school only on the specific written request of the student's parent or guardian and with the written authorization of the student's physician. The need for both parent and physician authorization is a state regulation. All prescription medication must be furnished in the original pharmacy labeled container. Over-the-counter medication will be allowed at school only with a doctor's written authorization.” Medication will be stored in a locked cabinet.
Toilet Training Please inform the preschool staff of your child’s toileting or self-care needs.
Snacks Snack time is an important component of the preschool day. Parents will be asked to bring a nutritional snack to share. Snacks need to be pre-packaged or prepared from commercial sources, in compliance with the Department of Public Health. If your child has any food allergies, please contact the teaching staff prior to the first day of school.
Birthdays We celebrate birthdays in preschool classrooms. If you would like to send in something special on your child’s birthday please let the classroom teacher know. Remember that the snack needs to be pre-package or prepared from a commercial source.
Closing Procedure Staff will make sure each child has been signed out by an authorized person. The sign-in book must be checked, counted, and compared with the attendance sheet daily. Student head count is performed each time students exit or return to the classroom. Rooms must be checked by adult personnel, lights turned off, and room locked if required by building procedures.
Withdrawing from the Program If at any time you wish to withdraw your child from the preschool program, please talk to the teacher, so they can fill out the appropriate paperwork to send to the preschool office.
Observation/Parent Volunteers Parents are welcome and encouraged to visit or volunteer in the classroom. Please allow the child a few weeks to get settled before joining us. Please respect the board policy that visits to the classroom are encouraged and allowed as long as such visits do not disrupt school operations or interfere with the educational process.
Visitor Policy It is our policy that all visitors to our preschool classrooms sign in and out on the sheet provided in the classroom. Please follow the visitor’s policy outlined by each school building
Conferences Conferences will be held twice a year or as needed. Each preschool site will schedule their own conferences.
Clothing Please send your child to school in sturdy, washable clothing that she/he is comfortable wearing. Tennis shoes are the preferred footwear for school.
Change of Clothing Please make sure to send in a complete change of clothing for your child (shirt, socks, underwear, and pants). We will keep it in your child’s box at school. Label all clothing.
Toy/Weapons The toys and equipment used at the school have been purchased to enrich the program. We encourage children not to bring toys to school to play with. No mechanical toys, guns, toy weapons or other war type toys are permitted at school at any time.
School Bags Please send a school bag or backpack with your child daily in order for us to send artwork and notes back and forth.
Collection of Money (other than tuition) Money collected for field trips, pictures, etc. should be brought in a sealed envelope, and labeled with the purpose for the money.
Field Trips and Special Activities Our preschool classrooms do not participate in off-campus field trips. In the event that the staff and students are not in the classroom if you arrive late, please check with the school front office. Our classrooms may invite visitors to the classroom for educational activities. For example, a firefighter, wildlife expert, etc. Families will be notified in advance of the time and content of the special activity.
Identifying Where Children Are at All Times Staff takes attendance and conducts head counts on a periodic basis. This ensures that children who are registered to attend the program are accounted for throughout the day. In the case of a lost child one call will be made to the parent and one to 911. In addition, a report will be submitted to The Colorado Department of Human Services, Division of Child Care.
Communication Communication between home and school is an important component of our program. Each preschool classroom has a communication board for postings related to lesson plans, newsletters, etc. Please be sure to read all notes as we often ask the children to bring in items for special days. Your preschool will inform you of how communication will be shared.
Discipline One of the primary goals of your child’s program is to teach socially appropriate behavior. The social skills curriculum teaches sharing, waiting, listening, anger management, conflict resolution, problem solving and making friends. The preschool staff is trained in positive behavioral supports and how to encourage children for appropriate behavior.
All children are entitled to a safe and healthy environment. If there is a situation during which health and safety concerns arise, the child’s parent will be informed in developing a plan.
Registration The Douglas County Preschool Program welcomes all children in the community. Registration is held in March of each school year and occurs using a lottery system. Children must be 3 on or before October 1st of the current school year to be eligible to enroll. For additional information, please access the Douglas County School District website (www.dcsdk12.org) or the preschool department at 303-387-0801.
Updates:
9/1/09 – The following sections were updated:
10/1/09 – The following section was updated:
9/13/10 – The following sections were updated:
Update information appears in red.
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