Student Handbook

STUDENT HANDBOOK

Thank you for choosing a quality child care & preschool program for your child.

This handbook has been prepared to familiarize you with the program and policies of Pearl Academy LLC. This program has been designed in accordance with the standards of the Department of Children and Families and The Early Learning Coalition.

The main purpose of Pearl Academy is to provide QUALITY care to all families. Our goal is to provide a safe environment and to enrich the lives of all children by offering positive learning experiences. All children at Pearl Academy are encouraged to grow and develop emotionally, socially, cognitively and physically.. We are committed to providing quality care for your child. We encourage family involvement and look forward to giving your child a promising beginning in early childhood development.

Our Vision
The vision of Pearl Academy LLC is to provide the highest quality of services that will help our children to become academically and socially strong and to become productive citizens and future leaders.

Our Mission
The mission of Pearl Academy is to provide QUALITY care to all families by providing a safe environment and developmentally appropriate curriculum for all the children to learn, grow, explore and demonstrate what they have learned.

Philosophy
We believe that children are to be respected as individuals and provided with opportunities to learn and grow in a supportive environment with caring adults.

We believe that parents are to be respected as the primary influenced in their children's lives, welcomed into the planning and governance of our program and supported in their efforts to improve their families.

We believe that Pearl Academy as a community program should involve the citizens in its operations, maintain an active role in community organizations, and share its information and expertise with others.

OPEN DOOR POLICY for parents
  Parents of Pearl Academy are encouraged to come and read stories, sing songs, and bring games and activities, so when you come to visit, be prepared to get involved. Parents will have immediate access without prior notice to the center.
* ALSO SEE VISITOR/FACILITY TOURS*

HOURS OF OPERATION
MONDAY - FRIDAY 7:00 am - 6:00 pm

VPK 9am-12:45pm (Monday-Thursday) A total of 540 hours per school year
Extended Day is available Mon-Friday for your convenience (Please see Pricing in Front Office)

Kindergarten- 1st Grade: Grades K-1st will NOT be offered for the 2020-21 school year

Late arrivals: NO CHILD WILL BE ACCEPTED IN CLASS AFTER 9:15AM without a Doctor's note or extreme circumstance
Late Drop off fee is $10 without a doctor's note

LATE PICK UP FEE: $10 FIRST MINUTE AND $1 EACH ADDITIONAL MINUTE Due at time of pick up or before dropping your child off the next morning (3 LATE PICK UPS WILL RESULT IN YOUR CHILD'S TERMINATION
* We do not want to terminate any child so please pick your child up on time.

REGISTRATION
The following fee are due upon enrollment: Registration fee per family, annual supply fee per child, and one week of tuition per child.
These fees are non-refundable.

Registration fee is due each year on the first MONDAY in august/ or upon enrollment. If the registrationfee is not paid by he first Friday in August, you will be charged a $5.00 late fee each day until supply fee is received Annually

UNIFORMS
Uniforms are mandatory and must be worn Monday-Thursday (Friday is dress down day)
Pre K3- VPK uniform consists of a gold collared shirt and blue or khaki uniform shorts, pants or skirts.

  Logo not mandatory

Any girl wearing a skirt must wear shorts underneath.
*Printed shirts and other types of clothing other than what is listed above will be prohibited*

ENROLLMENT
For your child's safety and to comply with the state regulations, all health forms and enrollment papers must be completed and on file at the Center prior to your child's first day of attendance. The following items must be submitted at the time of enrollment.

Once signing our enrollment form, parent/guardian is giving consent for child care personnel to have access to child's records.

Pearl Academy enrollment form
Handbook Agreement form
form 3040 physical examination
form 680 or 681 immunization record
DCF Flu form (H1N1)
Copy of parent's driver's license (and any authorized pick up persons
Emergency contact form
Withdrawal Policy form
Permission to photograph
Food consumption policy
School readiness/NACCRRA and/ or VPK contracts
FREE/REDUCED lunch application

One time registration fee (non-refundable)
Annual supply fee (non-refundable)
One week's full tuition payment (non-refundable)

*Pearl Academy does not discriminate in regards to religion, sex, national or ethnic origin.

Other items needed: All items MUST be labeled with first and last names to ensure that your child's day at Pearl Academy goes smoothly include:

2 year olds: ALL STUDENTS MUST BE POTTY TRAINED
3 year olds & up : wipes blanket and change of clothing

*PLACE ALL LABELED CHANGE OF CLOTHES IN A GALLON SIZED ZIP LOCK BAG
All blankets must go home on Fridays to be laundered and returned on Monday.

****PLEASE LABEL ALL OF YOUR CHILD'S BELONGINGS WITH HIS OR HER FIRST & LAST NAME***

IMMUNIZATION/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Each child is required by the Department of Children and families to have on file for each child, a Physical Examination(Form 3040) and Immunization Record (Form 680). You have 30 days after enrollment to bring in the original forms. Per DCF requirements, any child who does not have the proper medical forms on file will not be allowed to attend until forms are on file and current.

Please Note: Because each child has 30 days to turn in the required immunizations or may have medical, religious, or philosophical exemptions we must inform you that some children in our care may not have current immunizations.

Any child who has or is at an increased risk for a chronic physical, developmental, behavioral or emotional condition and require additional services must have a current Emergency Care Plan included in the child's file and readily accessible for those caring for the child. Child care personnel caring for a child with an Emergency care plan must be trained to recognize and respond appropriately to a medical emergency.

Pick up Policies & Procedures
Parents are requested to handle any center business prior to checking their child out of the center.

AUTHORIZED PICK UP/OR EMERGENCY POLICY
Only authorized persons listed on the Authorized Persons for Pick Up form are permitted to have access to your child and remove the child from the center. A photo ID must be presented at the time of pickup. Photo Id can be a passport, driver's licnese, state identification badge, college identification card, or and employee photo identification badge.

The following procedures apply:

It is the responsibility of the registering parent to notify the center in writing of all persons authorized to pick up your child from the center.
Parents are required to complete the Authorized Persons for Pick Up and emergency contact form at the time of enrollment. Only persons listed on this form will be permitted to remove the child from the center. The name, address and phone number of the authorized persons must be in the enrollment and emergency contact form.
Persons on the authorized list but are unfamiliar to the staff will be required to show proof of identification with a picture I.D.
Changes/ updates to the Pick-Up list must be made in writing by parent or legal guardian on the original form located in the office.
Individuals must be at least 18 years of age in order to sign a child in or out of the center.

In an emergency the center will contact the parents first. If the center is unable to reach the parents the staff will call the persons on the listed form until someone is reached.

Parents or authorized adult are required to clock the child out on the time clock. If your child is on a subsidized program with the Early Learning Coalition of Duval, Jacksonville Children’s Commission or Episcopal Children’s Services, then you will be required to sign your child out of the center on the Parent Sign in Sheet located at the main entrance. Parent or authorized adult is responsible for supervision of child once they have signed the child out of the center and must walk their child to the car. Children will not be released to older siblings or to a honking horn.

Holidays & School Closings
The following are paid holidays recognized by the Center. Tuition & parent Fees do not change. New Years Day, Martin Luther King, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Veteran’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Friday after Thanksgiving, Winter Break & New Years Eve.

Notes & Event Calendars will be posted prior to closing as a reminder.
Center will close during Winter, Spring Break AND 2 weeks at the end the summer program (2 weeks before school starts).
(No fee due for, Spring Break & Summer closing) CHRISTMAS WEEK & or WINTER BREAK IS A PAID HOLIDAY WEEK

In case of sever weather watches, Pearl Academy will be closed whenever public schools are closed.
We are also closed for national holidays.

*Spring holiday, Christmas holiday closings will vary depending on enrollment. If there is not enough students that will be attending during these holidays, Pearl Academy may decide to close.

Regular tuition is due for all holidays (including the week of Christmas & Winter Break)
Winter Break is a paid holiday and full tuition is due regardless of attendance
A 2 weeks notice will be given with dates because holiday dates change from year to year.
It is the parent's responsibility to obtain substitute care during holiday closing days.

Pearl Academy reserves the right to close for any reason in which we cannot operate in a safe manner. i.e. loss of electricity , water, heat or in extreme circumstances loss of air conditioning, and medical epidemics. Child care fees are paid for any of these occurrences.

Emergency & Inclement Weather Closings of Center
In the event of inclement weather where the center will have to close: Parents will be contacted and expected to come pick children up immediately.
If there is a threat of a natural disaster such as a hurricane, tornado, flooding etc. we will follow the Public School System for guidance. Once the storm passes and is out of the area, we will assess the center for damage and re-open as soon as possible.
The following steps must be confirmed before opening the center:

* The center must have power and any physical damage must be repaired.
* There must be available staff in the center to provide appropriate and required staff to child ratio
* Parents are still responsible for child care tuition in the event that the center is due to natural disaster.

* A meeting spot has been designated In the event that children must be relocated/evacuated from the center. Our meeting spot is located on every evacuation plan and also posted in our main office (for safety of staff & students this is NOT displayed on internet)

Tuition is due regardless of attendance

TUITION INFORMATION
Annual Supply/registration fee:   $75 ( Due every year on the first day of August or at time of enrollment)

Preschool Program Ages 2, 3, 4, and VPK 4
   See Rates & Prices page for Fees & tuition

VPK program ..............................FREE
VPK wrap around/ extended day ...$70 per week .
**school supply list available on events page**
Kindergarten ...................... prices available upon request
Part time programs.......................N/A
Daily drop in rate..........................$30 per day

PAYMENT DUE DATES (FOR PRIVATE PAY & PARENT FEES)

ALL FEES are due in advance on MONDAY MORNINGS regardless of attendance. (This includes ELC parent fees)
A drop box is available when the director can not take your payment.
If payment is not received on MONDAY, you will be charged a late fee.

LATE FEE:  $20 first day & $5 each additional day. (DUE TUESDAY MORNING)
Late fees will NOT be waved under any circumstances

***FULL TUITION IS DUE REGARDLESS OF ATTENDANCE***
This includes wrap around fees, extended day fees and ELC parent fees.
In order to secure your child's spot each week, tuition is due in advance regardless of attendance.
If payment (including late fee) in not posted by the Monday of the next week, you risk the possibility of your child being placed back on our wait list.
Once a child is enrolled in extended day, tuition is due regardless of attendance, this includes those days that you decide to pick your child up early.

FORMS OF PAYMENT
We accept Cash, Money order, and online payments through our Parent Portal NO CHECKS
*Prices subject to change annually.

Effective Monday July 2, 2018

All online payments must be set to automatic draft (Due Every Monday) with a service charge of $3.50 per transaction.  Again: NO LATE PAYMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED ONLINE
Other Payment Options: Cash or Money Order (sorry no checks)If online payment in not made by 12 midnight on Monday, you will be locked out of the parent portal for one MONTH and must pay your tuition and all late fees in our main office. Avoiding your late fee will result in your child’s termination.

PLEASE SEE PARENT BOARD ABOUT OTHER FEES, CENTER RULES AND GUIDELINES

Return/Refund Policy. NO REFUNDS. Tuition is due in advance every Monday morning regardless of attendance to hold your child's spot in our classrooms
If you decide to take your child out of the program for whatever reason, a 2 weeks written notice is required. You are responsible to pay your regular rate as specified in your contract whether or not you continue to bring your child in for the remaining 2 weeks days.
Tuition is due regardless of attendance: This includes times when child is sent home due to illness.
In the event your child's services are suspended or terminated by Pearl Academy (see expulsion policy for more details) you will be charged a daily rate of $30 for days care/services were rendered in that week. (If your child attended 3 or more days in a week, full tuition will be expected.
Please Note: Full Tuition is due for Winter Break is a paid holiday and full tuition is due regardless of attendance

Curriculum:

For 2's & 3's
FunShine curricula are aligned with early learning standards and guidelines across the nation. We are confident our early learning materials meet or exceed the standards set forth by states and early childhood organizations. Plus, we regularly work with providers to help them obtain better ratings in their state's QRIS.

Learn Every Day®: The Preschool Curriculum, 2nd Ed. is a research-based, year-round program that incorporates play into children’s daily learning routines to enhance their growth and development.

This comprehensive, research-based curriculum works with half-day and full-day programs. The 36 weekly thematic units, which differentiate instruction for three- and four-year olds, include multi-sensory activities. In addition to encouraging family engagement, the curriculum supports dual language learners and incorporates special needs adaptations. Includes a curriculum guide for setting up and managing your learning environment and a three-volume lesson guide.

Pathways for Preschool is a well-balanced program for K2 and K3. Preschoolers will have lots of fun as they meet daily with their animal friends at the Big Red Barn. Each activity and concept in the program is research-based and developmentally appropriate. Interactive circle times help children learn, grow, and have fun!

Pathways for Preschool provides Christian values to your preschoolers with enjoyable age-appropriate activities that encourage participation in every major area of learning—personal and social development, letter and number recognition, and motor skills development. Through the use of ideas, games, songs, and activities, this colorful preschool program will encourage creativity, keep your preschoolers’ interest, and instill an early love for learning.

For VPK
FunShine curricula are aligned with early learning standards and guidelines across the nation. We are confident our early learning materials meet or exceed the standards set forth by states and early childhood organizations. Plus, we regularly work with providers to help them obtain better ratings in their state's QRIS.

Learn Every Day®: The Preschool Curriculum, 2nd Ed. is a research-based, year-round program that incorporates play into children’s daily learning routines to enhance their growth and development.T

This comprehensive, research-based curriculum works with half-day and full-day programs. The 36 weekly thematic units, which differentiate instruction for three- and four-year olds, include multi-sensory activities. In addition to encouraging family engagement, the curriculum supports dual language learners and incorporates special needs adaptations. Includes a curriculum guide for setting up and managing your learning environment and a three-volume lesson guide.

Kindergarten
K5 Beginnings is a springboard to a lasting, enthusiastic relationship with reading and writing. Clear instructions are provided for a strong beginning to phonemic awareness, phonics, word families, sight words, early reading, and writing. Engaging themes incorporate science, Heritage Studies, and literature along with stories for listening and reading comprehension. Student involvement is encouraged through theme lessons and group composition of Experience Stories, as well as activities with the Phonics Characters and word cards.

As we teach our young students to apply their natural curiosity, they will soon develop a broad base of interests and the basic tools they need to explore the world around them. Bible stories spark an early interest in God’s Word. In addition to teaching art, science, and heritage studies, K5 Beginnings teaches listening, oral composition, phonics, and reading comprehension. Math manipulatives are used to explain basic math concepts, such as numbers, time, and money.

Typical Activities

Basic Skills: letter & sounds, number recognition & counting, colors, shapes, reading & other early literacy activities, hand writing
Group Play: Circle time, singing, dancing, play acting, games, reading, listening to tapes (story & music)
Free Play: Children have a choice of - blocks, kitchen toys, dolls, and accessories, duplos/ leggo, play sets, Household toys, pull/push toys, art materials, science materials, instruments, and may watch limited television or video tapes.
TV WILL BE EDUCATIONAL OR THEME BASED AND LIMITED TO NO MORE THAN 1 to 2 hour per week.
Language: Nursery rhymes, singing, finger plays, stimulus pictures or objects to encourage verbalization, reading to the children, flannel boards
Dramatic play: Dress up, role playing, puppetry, etc
Outdoor play: (weather permitting) climbing, riding toys, running, ball playing, gardening toys, trucks, strolling dolls, (please remember to dress your child appropriately for the weather, if in doubt, dress in layers or bring extra clothes)
Special Days: Include Birthdays/holiday parties, getting ready for holidays and actual holiday events
Inclusion: Pearl Academy will include students with special needs and make accommodations as required by the American Disabilities Act.

Typical Routines: SEE SCHEDULE POSTED IN EACH CLASSROOM

In the event of inclement weather, alternated activities may be scheduled to promote emotional, social, intellectual and physical growth.
Television, videos, movies, electronics & computers may also be used during transition times, dismissal times, and inclement weather.
Computers will be limited to 15 minute increments.
***TV is not a regular occurrence and will BE LIMITED TO NO MORE THAN 2 hours per day***

Communication
Each student must bring a 3 ring binder to school each day. Binders will be used as a means of daily communication between teachers and parents. Behavior, homework, memos and notes will be sent home in this binder. We ask that each day be initialed by the parent to let the teacher know that you have checked your child's binder. Feel free to make remarks or send notes to teachers.

Parent/teacher conferences
In the event that a child's behavior, or academic progress need to be discussed, a parent/teacher conferences may need to be scheduled.

Social Media and phone Etiquette
I know you might want to send your child’s teacher a friend request or have their personal cell number, however it is prohibited.

We’d like to keep all professional relationships professional and Private lives private

Effective ways to communicate with us:

Call us directly at (904)619-6419 or (904) 751-0215 during business hours
Create an account on our parent portal (link located at www.PearlAcademyKids.com
Email Center Director at mrs.bakerceo@gmail.com Join Pearl Academy’s PTA Group Me account

Friend us at “ Pearl Page” on Facebook. This page is Pearl Academy’s business page specifically for current and previous parents. You can view and share pictures of your child and see upcoming events (DO NOT SEND TEACHERS FRIEND REQUEST ON THEIR PERSONAL PAGE (EMPLOYEES ARE PROHIBITED FROM BEING FRIENDS WITH PARENTS ON FACEBOOK OR ANY OTHER SOCIAL MEDIA SITES)

Developmental Screening, Ongoing observations

All students will participate in ongoing observations and developmental screening at least twice a year.
A student portfolio will be kept on each child enrolled in Pearl Academy with the goal of tracking the progress of student work, developmental screenings and ongoing observations

Referral Policy and Procedures For Developmental Screenings
Time Frame for screenings:
Pearl Academy emphasizes the importance of recognizing potential health concerns early. Each new students enrollee is required to have his or her hearing, vision, speech, language, behavioral and developmental screening within the first forty-five (45) days of enrollment.
Purpose of Screenings:
The screenings are done twice per year (1 in Fall & again in Spring) to identify potential problems or areas which may require further evaluation. All children receive the same standard screenings
Obtaining Results:

We will invite parents to attend a parent teacher conference twice a year (1 in spring & 1 in fall) to discuss screening results. Child’s progress, and potential concerns will be discussed during parent teacher conference.

Referral Process

If there Parent or teacher feels that further evaluations are needed, We will need consent to refer your child to the ELC of Duval’s Inclusion department for further evaluation. Child Find also provides a free testing option.

Follow Up to referral

We will continue to follow up with referral until child received adequate assistance. Staff will also provide parent with activities and resources to use at home to assist with development

Accountability Procedures (Safeguards to protect against misidentification)

Teacher will be sure to add First Name, Last Name and date of birth to all screenings to protect against misidentification of each child

Actitivities (Take home )

Sample activity suggestions should be developed with staff and families related to the results & provided to parents.

TUITION Payments

Tuition fees are due in advance every Monday morning by 9:00am regardless of attendance. If payment is not received by the end of business day on Monday, a $20 Late fee will be added on Tuesday morning if no payment is received on Monday. $5 will be added to the late fee each day payment is not received. If fees are still not paid by close of business day on Thursday, including ALL late fees, your child will not be allowed to be dropped off on FRIDAY.

Pearl Academy reserved the right to deny services for your child, until payment is made in full. Pearl Academy also reserves the right to adjust its tuition policy as deemed necessary.

TUITION IS DUE REGARDLESS OF ATTENDANCE

All payment should be made to the director (Mrs. Baker) ONLY.
If the director is not available, a drop box is available for your convenience.
Online payments also available (See Director for details)

Please Note: Full Tuition is due for Winter Break regardless of attendance

Drop off & Pick up Policy

Arrival/ Drop off time

All students must be dropped off NO LATER THAN 9:15 am (unless you have a doctor's note
VPK students that are NOT enrolled in extended day will NOT be accepted before 9:00
Students wearing pull ups should arrive to school in a DRY pull up

(We are on a structured schedule and the teachers may not be able to leave the classroom to change a child that arrives wet.)

PAYMENTS ARE ALWAYS DUE AT THE TIME OF ARRIVAL

*See Late fee on "Pricing & Payment Policies" page

SIGN IN/SIGN OUT

All children must be signed in & out by a responsible ADULT every day
All voucher students MUST sign in & out DAILY using a FULL LEGIBLE SIGNATURE.

SCHOOL READINESS students must provide a FULL signature at sign in and sign out time by a parent or guardian each day.
*If a VPK or school readiness parent or guardian does not sign in or out per the requirements, then they will be held responsible for days to reimburse.

RELEASE OF CHILD
Students will ONLY be released to a responsible adult that is listed on the emergency contact form.
For extra safety precautions and to prevent unauthorized persons from removing children. A picture ID will be required for all persons other than the legal guardian when picking up a child.
Pearl Academy LLC reserves the right to prohibit any person that appears intoxicated or otherwise impaired from removing a child from the facility.

Dismissal/ Pick up time

All students must be picked up NO LATER THAN 6pm

(No later than 12:45 for VPK students not enrolled in extended day for VPK.

Late pick up fee: $10 first minute $1 each additional minute

Late fee due at the time of pick up or no later that the following morning when the child is dropped off to school.
3 LATE PICK UP CAN RESULT IN YOUR CHILD'S TERMINATION
* Please see front office for extended day fee & details*

ALL PARENTS/GUARDIANS MUST REMAIN IN THE WAITING AREA DURING PICK UP TIME.

This is not the time to visit or socialize with teachers. Please respect the fact that our staff is usually very busy with activities and games and also spend this time cleaning up and preparing classrooms for the next day. Remember visitors are ALWAYS welcome at any time before 3pm.

ATTENDANCE POLICY
Pearl Academy LLC will be operating a Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK) program for 3.75 hours a day, 4 days a week for 144 days (540 hours). Non instructional days have been scheduled to avoid going over the 540 hours that ELC will fund. Most non instructional days will fall on Fridays and holidays. Please pay close attention to the calendars because in some months there will be additional non instructional days.

All families will receive a calendar showing scheduled days off and non instructional days during the operational year period. A calendar of the entire year including non instructional days, holidays & closures will also be posted in our front office for your convenience.

Attendance during the scheduled instructional days is of utmost importance to remain in VPK program. Not only is your school funding linked to attendance, but also the child's success upon entrance to Kindergarten.
You will be required to sign and comply with the following policy on attendance and tardiness to remain in the VPK program.

Non Instructional days: Non instructional / NO VPK DAYS are the days that are not being funded by ELC. (See explanation above) Most non instructional days fall on Friday and holidays. There will be some additional non instructional days scheduled throughout the school year to avoid going over the mandated 540 hours.

Tardiness: Arrival for the VPK program is between 9:00am-9:15am. VPK arrivals should be signed in at front office. The earliest time arrivals will be accepted in the classroom is 9:00am and all children are expected to be in place and ready to start the day. Arrivals after 9:15 am are disruptive to the group in progress and difficult for the arriving child as well. We understand that it is occasionally unavoidable to be "running late" but more than twice a month will not be acceptable and may cause for termination from the VPK program.

LATE VPK PICK UP: The VPK program ends at 12:45 pm daily.
A late pick up fee of $10 will be assessed if you child is not picked up by 12:45. An additional fee of $5 will be addressed every 15 minute the child is still in attendance.

ABSENCES: Daily attendance in the VPK program is necessary for optimal learning, however, your will be allowed (3) absences per month. Any absences where the child is sick will require a note from your doctor(COVID19 test may be required) for the following reasons:

* Illness or injury of the child or child's family that may require from
* Physician or Dentist appointment (Doctor's note)
* Infectious disease or parasitic infection (doctor's note/COVID TEST may be required)
* Compliance with court order (e/g visitation, subpoena) (Court documents required)
* Special education or related services for the child's disability (appointment doc)
* Observation of a religious holiday or service
* Family vacation, not to exceed 5 excused absences per program year.
IMPORTANT: Pearl Academy is obligated to report the absences of any at risk or DCF child that is absent for 5 consecutive without contacting the school to ELC.

Please Note: Full Tuition is due for Winter Break regardless of attendance

Please Note: Absences of 5 consecutive instructional days will be considered a withdrawal from our VPK program at Pearl Academy LLC.. Withdrawals from our VPK program will not be eligible for re-enrollment. Pearl Academy will allow on documented 5 day absence during the 144 day instruction period. Documentation must be submitted in advance, explain the reason for the 5 day absence, and be signed and dated by the child's legal custodial adult.

Verifying your child's attendance and absences: The Pearl Academy Staff will ask you to stop by our office/ classroom at the end of each month to verify your child's attendance. You will be given a form to review and confirm your child's recorded attendance for the month.

Food & Nutrition Policy

NO OUTSIDE FOOD IS PERMITTED. (Holidays and Special Events will have a sign up sheet )
Children are not permitted to bring candy, drinks, or other such foods into our program.
WE ARE A NUT FREE ENVIRONMENT **** PLEASE NO NUTS OR FOOD CONTAINING NUTS ON PREMISES

Nutritious meal and snacks will be provided b Pearl Academy LLC. Pearl Academy will provide 3 nutritious meals each day which will include breakfast, lunch, & a PM snack.

Special diet or food allergies

If their is anything that your child can not eat, please make sure that our office and your child's teacher is aware.
If there is a need for the dietary supplements a physician's note and emergency care plan is requested to be placed in your child's file.
Food allergies require a written statement from physician and will be placed in your child's file and posted in his or her classroom.
Please read & sign a food consumption consent form application at the time of enrollment.

Birthday's & special Events
We will allow OUTSIDE FOOD. Parents can to bring in store brought items in such and candy; cupcakes and various treat during birthday parties, holidays and special events.
PLEASE NOTE THAT WE ARE A NUT FREE ENVIRONMENT and NO products containing nuts should be brought on our premises.
SORRY, NO HOME BAKED GOOD/ TREATS ALLOWED (We will allow treats that are created and baked on site.

Any parent that does not wish for their child to consume outside foods, must put it in writing. You must also inform staff of any food allergies that your child may have. You must also bring a doctor’s note and emergency care plan informing us of any food allergies/restrictions and emergency care instructions.

Field Trips

Any field trip that is scheduled by Pearl Academy will require a signed permission slip by the parent.

All field trips will require a BAG lunch (no lunch boxes or sodas allowed)
Any child that has medications that will be attending a field trip must have the medication release form filled out prior to the field trip and medication brought in the original, labeled container.. documentation must be noted on the field trip permission slip. If the child has severe allergies or conditions, an inhaler and/ Epi-pen must be provided.

OUTSIDE ACTIVITIES & SPECIAL EVENTS
I understand and agree to allow my child to participate in any activities provided by Pearl Academy LLC. This includes but not limited to birthday parties, holiday events, magic shows, water play activities, bounce house rentals, nature walks, walking and bus field trips, petting zoo and any other trips or activities held by Pearl Academy LLC. In any event that I do NOT wish for my child to participate, I will provide a written notice to Pearl Academy within 48 hours of the event or activity. I also know by signing this form that I am releasing Pearl Academy from all liabilities that may occur on or off premises.

Meal Service Times
Breakfast: 8:00am- 8:45am
Lunch: 11:15 - 12:15
Snack: 2:30 - 3:00
NO OUTSIDE FOOD PERMITTED FOR MEALS. All meals will be provided by Pearl Academy

Records and Forms
Under the laws of the sate of Florida, the parents are required to provide a child's immunization record and physical signed by the child's physician. the state also requires that this information be kept up to date and in the provider's files.

A signed emergency Medical Treatment form must be submitted to the provider prior to the first day of administering any medication.

A daily field trip/ outing permission slip form must be signed by the parent in order for a child to attend any field trip

Health and Safety
While at Pearl Academy, your child is under constant supervision. However minor injuries might occur during play. When this occurs the necessary first aid will be performed and appropriate accident/incident forms must be filled our for you to read and sign. You will be notified if your child sustains a serious injury or become ill.

Potty Training Policy
All students are expected to be independent and expected to use the potty on their own.
Let’s define a potty trained child:
A potty trained child is a child who can do the following:
1) Be able to TELL the adult they have to go potty BEFORE they have to go. They must be able to say the words “I have to go potty” BEFORE they have to go.
2) Be able to pull down their underwear and pants and get them back up without assistance.
3) Be able to wipe themselves after using the toilet.
4) Be able to get off the potty by themselves.
5) Be able to wash and dry hands.
6) Be able to go directly back to the room without directions.
7) Be able to postpone going if they must wait for someone who is in the bathroom or if we are outside and away from the house.

Illness Policy
For health reasons, we will NOT accept children who show signs of inadequate personal hygiene, fever, diarrhea severe cold, unusual rash, or communicable disease. Your child must have a doctor's note to return to school following any of the illnesses listed in this section.

We urge you to keep your child at home in the event of most illnesses. It is vital that you let us know if your child is diagnosed as having a communicable disease. This is to ensure the safety of you child as well as others.

PLEASE KEEP YOUR CHILD HOME IF HE OR SHE DISPLAYS ANY OF THE FOLLOWING SYMPTOMS:

A fever of 101.5 or more, or has had a fever in the past 24 hour period
a constant cough, wheezing, nasal discharge, sneezing, vomiting or diarrhea. Manager's discretion will be used in cases of vomiting
A communicable disease. A communicable disease will have some or all of the following symptoms: sniffles, red eyes with a discharge, sore throat, headache and abdominal pain, accompanied by a fever. Please notify the Director immediately if your child does have a communicable disease. Your child must be on antibiotics for 24 hours ( or had 3 doses) before coming back to the center.
Redness of the eyelids accompanied by a discharge (pink eye)
Severe itching of the body or scalp (lice) There must be no sign of nits for your child to return to school
Sort throat
Unusual spots or rashes
Mouth sores with drooling

A phone call to let us know why your child is absent would be appreciated. children with a fever cannot return to our center until 24 hours after the fever is less than 99 degrees. Children with diarrhea cannot return to our center until they have had a normal bowel movement. If your child has one diarrhea bowel movement during the day, we will make a courtesy call to let you know. After the second diarrhea bowel movement, you will be asked to pick your child up. Children with a serious illness will NOT be allowed to enter our center without a written approval (must be in writing).

Pearl Academy reserves the right to override a physician's note if your child still exhibits some of the above symptoms: the parent will be called to come and pick up their child.

should your child become ill during the day, you will be notified as soon as possible. Parents are required to promptly (30 minutes) pick up their child from the center. Parents that are unable to pick-up their child in a timely manner will need to have an authorized person on your child's enrollment fore or emergency contact form come pick up your child. It is your responsibility as a parent to update your enrollment form if needed. In the event of a serious illness or injury and we are unable to contact you or any person listed on your enrollment/ emergency contact form, at the discretion of the director or assistant director, the paramedics will be called and your child will be transported to an emergency facility.

Parents are requested to notify the Center Director if their child has a communicable disease so that parents of children in the classroom/center may be notified. Only information about the communicable disease will be shared. The center will follow the center's confidentiality policy and procedures.

*** Please inform us of any existing cuts, bruises, or bumps when your child arrives to school.***

DAILY HEALTH CHECKS

Daily health checks are made upon arrival. If a child shows visible signs of being ill or any time during the day, the parents will be called to pick-up their child. There is no tuition break due to illnesses. To secure each child's spot, tuition is due regardless of attendance. We will notify you of any outbreaks in the classrooms by posting a notice on the classroom door.

Medication
A physician must prescribe all medication given to a child at Pearl Academy. The parent will be required to fill out a medication release authorization form. All medication must be in the original container, indicating the child's name, type and date of prescribed medication, amount and time of dosage and the length of time medication is to be distributed. These forms must be updated EVERY MONDAY.

All medication must be kept in the off. NO over the counter medication will be given unless a written physician's prescription is presented with the medication. Again, the correct dosage and time of the medication must be on the physician's prescription.
It is the parents responsibility to pick up medication from the front office. any expired medication that is not pick up by the expiration date will be discarded. If any medication is kept at the center on an as needed basis , such as nebulizers, the form is valid until medication expires.

MEDICATION will only be given out at 11:00 am and 3:00 pm, so please adjust your schedule accordingly .
Any child that has severe allergies must have an epi-pen and Benadryl on site. Medical release forms must be on site with the epi-pen and Benadryl with a physician's note. All medications must be in their original container with label.

Withdrawals and Leave of absences
If your child's behavior is unacceptable, he or she may be disciplined by redirection or taking a "time out" from activities. If the behavior is a continuing problem, the director will schedule a conference. Suspension or termination from Pearl Academy could result if the unacceptable behavior cannot be corrected in a timely manner.

Parent withdrawal: Parent must provide a written note at least 2 weeks in advance when with drawing a child

Leave of absence: ALL SPOTS ARE SECURE
We will reserve your child's spot in our program even when he or she cannot attend. Therefore payment is expected for each week your child is enrolled, regardless of attendance.
Abuse & neglect
It is the responsibility of all personnel of Pearl Academy to report abuse and/or neglect

Guidance and Discipline Policy
Discipline is the effective management of children's behavior with the goal of self disciplined children. The management's technique to be used in any particular situation will be based upon consideration of the particular situation and individual child. All staff, volunteers, and parents will use positive guidance and refrain from any punishment tied to food or toileting. Corporal punishment is not permitted.

Positive guidance methods listed below:

Plan ahead to prevent behavior problems
Establish clear and simple rules that are age appropriate
Be a model for the desired behavior
Help children to learn problem solving skills
Give hugs, and positive encouragement
Reinforce positive behavior with praise
Overlook small annoyances
Offer positive alternatives to a negative behavior
Re-direct or divert the child
Help children see behavioral consequences
Provide renewal time (1 minute for each year of life)

In the event that a child is exhibiting extreme challenging behavior, we will follow these Behavioral Prevention Procedures

Provide renewal time (removal from the situation)
When a child is too upset to talk or listen, it may be necessary to remove the child from the situation. the teacher is to stay with the child in the classroom to discuss what happened and to help the child regain composure. If necessary, the child may be removed from the classroom.
If the child is unable to regain control within 30 minutes, the parent or authorized contact person may be contacted to pick up the child
Any behavior that is considered disruptive / harmful to the well being of staff and other students will NOT be tolerated and will result in immediate termination.

*Uncontrolled or unruly behavior will result your child's termination.
*Pearl Academy reserves the right to terminate any student at any time.

Parent/Guardian Rights & Responsibilities

Parent's Rights
My rights as a parent or guardian in the program include:

To be recognized as my child's primary educator
To be treated with respect by the staff of Pearl Academy
To be welcomed in my child's classroom. I may visit the center at any time during its hours of operation.
To receive information and guidance from the program about my child's progress & development, including regular progress reports from my child's teacher
To participate in discussions about my child's progress and setting goals for my child's learning and development
To take part in decisions regarding my child's center. My ideas and suggestions will be valued, and I will have opportunities to share them with faculty and other parents. Opportunities include Parent Center Committee Meetings, Program Policy council meetings, Statewide Policy council meetings, and other workshops, training, and /or events
To be informed about all community resources concerned with education, health and improvement of family life.
To review and ask for clarifications on policies and procedures.

Parent Responsibilities
My Responsibilities as a parent/guardian includes:

Ensure my child attends the program consistently and on time to support his/her development
To learn as much as possible about the program and to participate in major policy decisions
To accept Pearl Academy as an opportunity in which I can improve my life and my children's lives
To take part in the classroom as an observer, a volunteer, or a paid employee, and to contribute my services in whatever way I can toward enrichment of the total program
To provide parent leadership by taking part in elections, to explaining the program to other parents and to encourage their full participation.
To welcome teachers and staff into my home to discuss ways in which parents can help their children's development at home in support of the school experience
To take advantage of programs designed to increase my knowledge about child development and my skills in areas of possible employment.
Ensure that my child is up-to-date on all required medical and dental needs.
To work with teachers, faculty and other families in a cooperative manner

10. To ensure that Pearl Academy remains a SMOKE free environment. No smoking on premises ( inluding e-cigarettes)
11. To report misconduct of any kind to the school owner or director immediately. Failure to report misconduct to owner or director can result in potential harm, illness or death. Potential Penalties for not reporting misconduct could include suspension of staff, termination/ expulsion of child, or staff

.
Standards of Conduct
As a parent or legal guardian of a child enrolled at Pearl Academy LLC, the parent/guardian is expected to abide by the program's Standards of Conduct
Pearl Academy has guidelines of acceptable conduct that all parents, volunteers and visitors must abide by while on premises. It is expected that all parties will follow these guidelines of the Pearl Academy Student Handbook. We strive to provide a safe learning environment for you and the children. Volunteering in the classroom is encouraged however, the "Standard of Conduct" must be adhered to at all times.

Respect and promote the unique identity of each child and family. Refrain from stereotyping on basis of gender, race, ethnicity, culture, religion or disability.
Follow program confidentiality policies concerning information about children, families and other staff members.
Children will not be left alone or unsupervised while in the center.
Use positive methods of child guidance. Any use of corporal punishment, emotional or physical abuse or humiliation is prohibited. Methods of discipline that involve isolation, the use of food as a punishment or reward, time out or the denial of basic needs are prohibited.
Any threatening physical contact or verbal abuse towards individuals connected with the program, other parents or volunteers is prohibited and will NOT be tolerated.
Pearl Academy does adhere to a SMOKE FREE environment. Smoking is prohibited on the premises and during all center or parent activities.
Pearl Academy prohibits theft, firearms, alcohol, explosives, and any illegal substance on the premises.
Harassment or causing disharmony of any kind will not be tolerated
To ensure that Pearl Academy remains a SMOKE free environment. No smoking on premises ( including e-cigarettes)
Pearl Academy reserves the right to terminate a child at any time for any reason.
Parents & personnel will respect & promote the unique identity of each child, family & employee and refrain from stereotyping on the basis of gender, race, ethnicity, religion or disability.

Reporting Child Abuse & Neglect
All staff involved with caring for the children enrolled at Pearl Academy LLC are Mandated Reporters of Child Abuse & Neglect
All employees and agents have an affirmative duty to report all actual or suspected cases of a child abuse, abandonment or neglect.
Call 1-800-96-ABUSE or report online at http://dcf.state.fl.us.abuse/report.
Signs of physical abuse: The child may have unexplained bruises, welts, cuts, or ther injuries: broken bones or burns. A child experiencing physical abuse may seen withdrawn or depressed, seem afraid to go home or may run away, shy away from physical contact, be aggressive, or wear inappropriate clothing to hide injuries.
Signs of Sexual Abuse: The child may have torn, stained or bloody underwear, trouble walking or sitting, pain or itching in the genital area, or sexually transmitted disease. A child experiencing sexual abuse may have an unusual knowledge of sex or act seductively, fear of a particular person, seem withdrawn or depressed, gain or lose weight suddenly, shy away from physical contact or run away from home.
Signs of Neglect: The child may have unattended medical needs, little or no supervision at home, poor hygiene, or appear underweight. A child experiencing neglect may be frequently tired or hungry, steal food or appear overly needy for adult attention.
Patterns of Abuse: Serious abuse usually involves a combination of factors. While a single sign may not be significant, a pattern of physical behavioral signs is a serious indicator and should be reported
Liability Protections: Any person, official, or institution participating in good faith in any act authorized or required by law, or reporting in good faith any instance of child abuse, abandonment, or neglect to the department or any law enforcement agency, shall be immune from any civil or civil criminal liability which might otherwise result by reason of such action (F.S 39.203)
An employer who discloses information about a former or current employee to a prospective employer of the former or current employee upon request of the prospective employer or of the former or current employee is immune form civil liability for such disclosure or its consequences unless it is shown by clear and convincing evidence that the information disclosed by the former or current employer was knowingly false or violated any civil right of the former or current employee protected under F.S.Chapter 760. (F.S. 768.095)

Reporting Misconduct by Instruction Personnel & Administrators
All employees and administrators have an obligation to report misconduct by instructional personnel and school administrators which affects the health, safety or welfare of a student. Examples of misconduct include obscene language, drug and alcohol use, disparaging comments, prejudice or bigotry, sexual innuendo, cheating or testing violations, physical aggression, and accepting or offering favors. Reports of misconduct of employees should be made to the owners of Pearl Academy LLC.
Reports of misconduct committed by administrators should be made to Mrs N. Baker (Owner of Pearl Academy LLC .
Failure to report misconduct to owner or director can result in potential harm, illness or death. Potential Penalties for not reporting misconduct could include suspension of staff, termination/ expulsion of child, or staff.
Legally sufficient allegations of misconduct by Florida certified educators will be reported to the Office of Professional Practice Services. Policies & Procedures for reporting misconduct by instructional personnel or school administrators which affect the health and safety or welfare of a student are posted in Pearl Academy's main office

VISITORS/ FACILITY TOURS

Walk in tours: Monday - Thursday 9am- 3:30pm Friday tours by appointment only
*All tours are given by the center director to make sure all questions can be answered at that time.

Visitors are discouraged to visit after 4pm. It is disruptive to the students and teachers as they are busy with activities such as planning for the next day, cleaning a student departure.
(Walk in tours are ONLY given by the director, therefore will not be given after 3:30 without and appointment)

In situations where there is a custody or domestic issue the following will apply.

* The center must be provided with the most recent certified copy of court orders and any amendments to the order, custody order, restraining order or a protection order from abuse
* The center will follow the orders of the court. Deviations from the court order will only be made if there are written instructions from the custodial parent (s) . Joint custody will require both signatures
* If there is not a copy of a court order or a copy has not been provided to the center, then both parents will have equal access to their child. by law the center may not deny access to child by a parent without a court order.
* If there is a verbal or physical conflict at the center, we will contact the police department.

VOLUNTEERS
ALL VOLUNTEERS ARE WELCOME at any time to help with story time, music, art projects and special events at any time however,

All Volunteers & visitors shall check in at the designated area and obtain permission for the visitation and a visitor's pass.
Visitation: A non enrolled child unaccompanied by his/her parent or legal guardian is prohibited
Only persons with legal authority to do so ( such as Dept of Children and Families, personnel or law enforcement) shall be allowed to question a child on the property without consent of the child's parents or legal guardian.
Because staff, children and parents should at all times feel that the school & work environment is safe and not hostile, all visitors to the property shall comply with all policies while on the property and shall conduct themselves in a manner that is not disruptive, threatening or abusive. (also see Standards of Conduct)
Any parent or volunteer who is disruptive, threatening or abusive will be asked to leave the premises immediately
If the person refuses to relocate or continues to act in an inappropriate manner, child care personnel will notify law enforcement.
Not withstanding the above, center personnel shall always have the authority to notify appropriate law enforcement personnel should any person on property violate criminal statutes.
Any person who volunteer MUST sign a DCF volunteer affidavit and follow all DCF guidelines regarding volunteers . A volunteer that volunteers more than 30 hours per month will be required to complete a criminal background check and have a notarized good moral character on file.
Personal belongings: Please leave your personal belongings a home or locked in your vehicles. All personal belongings such as purses, backpacks, tote bags, etc should be left in your locked vehicle because adults often carry sharp objects, medications and other hazards that should be kept out of reach of children.

Parent / Guardian Conference Information
All Parents/family are invited to attend scheduled formal parent/teacher conferences to review child’s progress and needs and set goals for the child. Conferences will be scheduled 2 times throughout the year. Other conferences may be scheduled or as requested by parent or teacher.

EXPULSION POLICY

Unfortunately, there are sometimes reasons we have to ask that a child be removed from our program either on a short term or permanent basis. We want you to know we will do everything possible to work with the family of the child(ren) in order to prevent this policy from being enforced.

WHEN A CHILD IS HAVING A PROBLEM IN THE CLASSROOM

Staff will try to redirect child from negative behavior.
Staff will reassess classroom environment, appropriate of activities, supervision.
Staff will always use positive methods and language while disciplining children.
Staff will praise appropriate behaviors.
Staff will consistently apply consequences for rules.
Child will be given verbal warnings.
Child will be given time to regain control
Child’s disruptive behavior will be documented and/or recorded if permission to photograph/ record is signed
Child's documented behavior and recordings will be maintained in confidential manner.
Parent/guardian will be given written copies of the disruptive behaviors that might lead to expulsion.
The director, classroom staff and parent/guardian will have a conference(s) to discuss how to promote positive behaviors.
The parent will be given literature or other resources regarding methods of improving behavior.
Recommendation of evaluation by professional consultation.
Recommendation of evaluation by local school district child study.

SCHEDULE OF EXPULSION

If after the remedial actions above have not worked, the child’s parent/ guardian will be advised verbally and in writing about the child’s or parent’s behavior warranting an expulsion. An expulsion action is meant to be a period of time so that the parent/guardian may work on the child’s behavior or to come to an agreement with the school
The parent/guardian will be informed regarding the length of the expulsion policy at director’s discretion.
The parent/guardian will be informed about the expected behavioral changes required in order for the child or parent to return to school.

PARENTAL ACTIONS FOR CHILD’S EXPULSION

Failure to pay/habitual lateness in payment OR pick up.
Failure to complete required forms including updating the child’s immunization/health records
Verbal abuse to staff , students or any other person affiliated with Pearl Academy.
Parent threatens physical or intimidating actions towards staff members or any other person affiliated with Pearl Academy.
Parents performing any acts considered to be harmful to the reputation of Pearl Academy, staff members or and any other persons affiliated with Pearl Academy
Failure to adhere to rules and regulations and standards of conduct set forth in the student hand book

CHILD’S ACTIONS FOR EXPULSION

Failure of child to adjust after a reasonable amount of time.
Unexcused / disrespectful behavior or language/threat towards students or staff.
Uncontrollable tantrums/ angry outbursts/ foul language
Ongoing physical/ verbal abuse to staff or to other children
Unable to toilet train.
Causing Harm/Injury to another student or staff

Pearl Academy reserves the right to terminate a child at any time for any reason.

Return/Refund Policy. In the event your child's services are suspended or terminated by Pearl Academy (see expulsion policy for more details) you will be charged a daily rate of $30 for days care/services were rendered. (If your child attended 3 or more days in a week, full tuition will be expected.

SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT

Pearl Academy is a Smoke Free environment. Absolutely NO SMOKING of any form allowed on premises

Discrimination
Pearl Academy LLC does not discriminate against anyone (adult or child, staff or parent) on the basis of sex, age, religion, national origin, color, race, marital status, physical or mental disability, or veteran status.

All parents, visitors & volunteers must sign documents in our main office stating that you have read and agree with all policies, procedures and standards of conduct in the Pearl Academy handbook . (form available in our front office)

Handbook Agreement form: Please be sure to sign our handbook agreement/ tuition agreement form to verify that you have read and agree to comply with all of the policies and procedures in Pearl Academy's Student Handbook.

*Thank you for choosing quality child care services for your child.