Adventure Christian Learning Center - Clover Sitesstorage.cloversites.com/midlakeschristianchurchadventurechristianc... · Adventure Christian Learning Center 6 5. Admissions Info

Adventure Christian Learning Center

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Dear Friend of A.C.L.C,

Thank you for your interest in Adventure Christian Learning Center! Our handbook will introduce you

to our curriculum-driven Center. We thank God for our children and the opportunity we have to teach them

here at Adventure Christian Learning Center. We want them to feel loved and have happy experiences as they

grow. We pray that every day is a new ADVENTURE in learning for them. At the same time, we take our

responsibility to provide quality care in a clean and safe learning environment very seriously. Incidentally, we

are a Center that is fully non-discriminatory toward students as to race, religion, or other protected status as

per the law within the framework of our Christian belief system.

This Parent Handbook was prepared to provide information and clarification concerning what is

offered at ACLC for preschool age children. These guidelines are not intended to be restrictive but rather to

enhance our ministry. Please read this manual carefully and cooperate with us in our goals to help our children

become all that they can be. If you have any questions, feel free to call us.

Our prayer is that you and your family will have many happy and rewarding experiences through your

involvement in this preschool childcare ministry of Adventure Christian Church.

In anticipation of a great relationship,

Cheryl Dykstra, administrator of Adventure Christian Learning Center (ACLC)


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<Table of Contents>

1. Mission Statement – pg 3

2. Purpose of Adventure Christian Learning Center- pg 3

3. Opportunities for Families– pg 4

4. Statement of Beliefs – pg 5

5. Admissions Info Overview – pg 6

6. Curriculum Information – pg 7

7. General Policies – pg 8

8. Playground Policies – pg 9

9. Health and Hygiene Policies – pg 10

10. Illness Guidelines – pg 11

11. Safety Policies – pg 12

12. Security Measures/Sign In and Out Form – pg 13

13. Child Abuse Policy – pg 13

14. Parent Responsibilities – pg 14

15. Discipline Policies – pg 15 - 16

16. Promotion – pg 17

17. Policies for Teachers – pg 17

18. Teacher-Child Ratios – pg 18

19. Holiday Information – pg 18

20. Absence Procedures – pg 19

21. Termination Information – pg 19

22. Center-Provided Lunch and Snack Program – pg 19 & 20


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1. Mission Statement

Our mission here at Adventure Christian Learning Center is for our staff to help children to LEARN, LIVE, and

LOVE like Jesus Christ in a safe, clean, imaginative environment where learning is a daily adventure. We care

for and teach our children from infant through pre-school ages on an academic, emotional, physical and

spiritual level. We partner with families, teaching Jesus Christ as the ultimate role model to help our families

raise well-educated, well-adjusted, ethically strong children.

The whole mission is simplified to: Leading children to “Learn, Live, and Love like Jesus Christ”.

2. Purpose of Adventure Christian Learning Center

“And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and men.”

(Luke 2:52, NIV)

Our goals for the growth of young children are based on the fact that children grow just as Jesus grew –

mentally (in wisdom), physically (in stature), socially and emotionally (in favor with man), and spiritually (in

favor with God).

Adventure Christian Learning Center seeks to lay a strong foundation in all four of these areas in the life of

each preschooler, by daily contact with those whose goal is to make learning a daily adventure while following

the principles and character of Jesus Christ.

Some of our basic goals are listed below. We work to help children understand:

Learning is fun, and is part of growing as a person

Good nutrition and exercise are necessary to keep our bodies strong and healthy

Getting along with others is a skill that we hone by being around others, sharing, and so on.

Finding joy in life comes from learning to cooperate with our authorities, parents and teachers.

God is the Creator and giver of good things, Jesus is God’s Son and our best friend

The Bible is the true inspired Word of God that tells us about God and Jesus

Adventure Christian Learning Center provides activity-based teaching using the A Beka and Wee Learn

curriculums. Both are faith-based, providing pre-schoolers opportunities to become strong in sharing,

expression, caring for others and problem solving. We encourage learning with hands-on experiences. It is our

goal to have each child look forward to attending classes, so each day becomes an adventure in learning.

It is very important to us that we partner with the home in nurturing the growth of each child in all areas.

Therefore, we encourage parents to be active in worship, Bible study, fellowship, and ministry opportunities. If

your family does not have a church home, we will be glad to provide you with a list of activities at Adventure

Christian Church, which is our sponsoring church of Adventure Christian Learning Center. The next page lists a

few opportunities, but elective classes of value for families come up on rotation basis as well.


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3. Opportunities for Families at Adventure Christian Church

Saturday evening

Bible classes for all ages - infants, preschool and elementary students

Worship at 7 PM – contemporary, casual

Sunday morning

Bible classes for all ages - infants, preschool and elementary students

Worship at 9 AM- traditional, and 10:45 AM – contemporary, casual

Wednesday evening

Supper 5:15 – first come first served on entrees, grilled hot dogs/hamburgers always available

Classes for all ages - including teens and adults, infants, preschool and elementary

Mid-Week

Various small groups meet in homes and elsewhere to build relationships and foster Bible learning.

Faith-based Electives

Classes on subjects that families are often interested in such as parenting skills, money management,

marriage enrichment.

Sports Program

We have sports offered for middle school, high school and adults such as Volleyball on Mondays.

We have other sports offered for children or youth - such as T-ball, touch football, soccer. Some

leagues have included children as young as age three. We also cooperate with the YMCA with age –

specific teams that are formed for various sports.

Family Dedication

Annually we invite our families to dedicate the raising of their children to God in a worship service with

a small memento and certificate given to each child. If you are interested in this, please contact the

administrator.

Note: having Saturday and Sunday Worship opportunities allows A.C.L.C. families to take part in various worship

activities at Adventure Christian without leaving their own church of choice.


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4. Statement of Beliefs

WE BELIEVE…..

…..That Jesus Christ is the one and only Son of God, and that He died and arose from the

dead. (I Corinthians 15:1-8, Hebrews 1:1-3)

…..That the Godhead is composed of Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit - commonly called the

“trinity”. (Matt 29:19-20)

…..That the Bible is the inspired word of God – a lamp for our feet, and a light to our path.

(II Tim 3:16, Ps 119:105)

…..That every person –regardless of their past, race, or social standing – has great worth as

a creation of God, and is therefore of great worth to us. (John 3:16)

…..That all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. (Rom 3:23)

…..That forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life are available to all who take Christ

as their Lord and Savior. (Acts 4:12)

….That those who recognize Christ as their Lord will repent of sin, publicly acknowledge their

faith in Him, and be baptized into Him. (Romans 10:9, Acts 2:38)

…..That the church is the Body of Christ on earth, and that it is empowered by the Holy Spirit,

and exists to reach the lost and strengthen the saved. (Eph 4:1-16)

…..That Jesus Christ will one day return to earth and reign forever as King of Kings and Lord

of Lords. (I Thessalonians 4:13-18)

These principles will be emphasized at A.C.L.C. in Bible classes, and wherever applicable in general studies as well.


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5. Admissions Info Overview If you are considering enrollment these are the steps we suggest:

1. A Tour - We ask that each family take a walk through our facility. We are proud to display our clean, and kid-friendly physical plant.

Everything from the colors of the walls, to the type of curriculum, to the toys on the playground have been carefully selected to help our

students learn rapidly in a pleasant, enjoyable setting.

2. An Application - On the tour you will be offered the application package. It needs to be filled out in detail, including the health

issues/allergy information, the names of those who are authorized to pick up the student. It is assumed by law that both father and

mother are authorized to pick up the student unless there are extenuating circumstances and proof of such in writing. Also include if

you accept texts as a form of contact. In some cases texting is less intrusive than phone calls. Please return this application to the

business office with color Driver Licenses of parents, or those who will do a major amount of pick-up of the child.

3. Payment of the Registration Fee/Curriculum/Tuition – we will need the small fee, currently $50, to be able to hold a spot for the

student. This is non-refundable. This gives you 2 weeks to decide on the start date and sign a contract or the vacancy will be back on

the market. There is also a once per year fee for supplies: curriculum, craft, books and teaching toy supplies due before the child’s first

day in the Center. The rate varies with the student’s age. Please remember that all payments of tuition are to “rent” a spot of 35 sq. feet

in the Center, they are NOT to cover child care - because of this they are due whether the child is present or not.

4. All Legal Documents Required – as per state law we must have a copy of the legal birth certificate (not the one from the

hospital), must have an original of the blue and gold forms from the pediatrician, and copy of the student’s social security card and

other legal documents needed as per the application. We also appreciate copies of other special information about the student. If you

skip these steps we get fined or written up by our licensing agencies, therefore failure to bring these within one week of application will

result in a $10 fine per week until all documents are in, thus potentially affecting the early payment discount as all payments go to

oldest balances first and will be applied to the $10 fine first.

5. Approximate Drop-off and Pick up Times – for staffing purposes, so we have enough help present, we need to know when each

student will be arriving and departing to be logged on the top of the application. If there will be an exception on a particular day, please

call the office with as much advance notice as possible, and call us ANY DAY your child will not be present so we can make

appropriate changes. Note that from August 17, 2015 forward there will a $2 per day surcharge if the child is not picked up by 5:30pm.

This allows us to make the area clean and tidy for the next day and all staff may still leave by 6:00 pm. After 6:00 pm the fee jumps to

$2 per minute to cover overstay, the payment is given to those who had to be present after hours.

6. Breakfast, Lunch and PM Snack- September 1, 2013 our Center was approved for USDA foods, providing a light breakfast with

milk, a hot lunch, and a P.M. snack at no charge. Thanks for signing the mandatory form regarding this program. Of course, the family

may opt out of the program, but the weekly price for the student does not reduce. If you opt to bring your own food please note this on

your application.

7. General items – each family with a child under 12 months will provide bottles, and/or sippy cup, a change of clothing,

diapers, and wipes. One dairy and one soy formula is provided at no charge. Families with a child over 12 months will provide a

nap mat, a small blanket, any small comfort toy, and sippy cup/bottles, 1 or 2 changes of clothing. All these items are to be

marked with first and LAST name. Ask the office about purchase of the mats; we usually have some on hand for $20 each.

8. Medicine Containers- we will accept and administer medicines only if they are in their original packaging with the doctor’s RX

attached. This also applies to over-the-counter meds. For instance, if you want us to administer children’s Tylenol, have your doctor

write a prescription dosage and attach it to the bottle so we have it on hand for an emergency use. These meds must be changed out

each year so the RX will be current.


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6. Curriculum Information

Our weekly lesson plans are created by our lead teachers and reviewed by our directors. For our younger students, ages

6 weeks to 24 months, lesson plans are based on the Wee Learn Curriculum, an excellent activity based curriculum. For

our K-3 and K-4 classes we use the time-honored and famed A Beka Curriculum, preferred by most Christian schools.

Being a Christian center we have chosen to use two faith-based curriculums to teach your child many foundational

truths that will assist them all of their lives. We believe that Jesus Christ was the greatest example of what a human

being may become and we take Him as our role model as teachers, directors and administrators. Because of this, our

children are taught a great deal from God’s Word, the Bible, as well as being taught high quality academics. Studies

show that children taught with the A Beka curriculum generally test one to one and a half years ahead of national

averages scholastically.

Our infants under 12 months are being taught with colors, sounds, textures, shapes, music, family life pictures, picture

story books, Bible teachings with stuffed animals and toys, all in short sessions.

Our one year old children are learning foreign language (mostly short Spanish phrases and sign language) as well as

the alphabet, colors, numbers, shapes, reading from story books, music from traditional children’s folk and gospel

songs, gross motor skills on the playground, and fine motor skills with puzzles and blocks, coloring and other toys. We

make learning into longer fun and games. Some families introduce potty-training, and we support it, if so.

Our two year old children continue with everything the ones do- foreign languages (as listed above), the alphabet,

colors, numbers, shapes, reading, music, gross and fine motor skills, but at a higher level than the ones; with their

ability to memorize the alphabet and songs, as well as learning to socialize advancing greatly. At this age they can do

short “seat work”. Also, our teachers cooperate to help potty train the child when the family suggests this.

Our three year old children begin to move toward the real basics of academic learning, readin’, ‘riting, and ‘rithmetic.

They learn to do much more with gross motor and fine motor skills. They begin to recognize and write their own

names, listen and follow short directions, understand sequencing (before and after, yesterday and tomorrow, and so

on), memorize objects that represent each sound of the alphabet.

Our four year old children are learning to read short books phonetically by the end of the first semester. They move to

the expert status on the alphabet, colors, shapes, textures, and make advances in coloring and painting, recognizing

flora and fauna, gain great agility on gross and fine motor skills (learning the difference in running, skipping, hopping,

etc.). They are taught about community helpers (policemen, firemen, and so on) in the language development portion

of the curriculum. Their reasoning abilities advance greatly: they can reason and predict what will happen at the end

of a story, and can make up their own stories. Families with children becoming five before the school year ends will find

the material appropriate as well.

Our graduating four year old children are strongly encouraged to move seamlessly into our Adventure Christian

Academy at 3800 State Rd. 19 for K-5 through 12th grade. Here they will continue to get the “best of the best” with

the advanced and faith-based A Beka Curriculum. This is an expanding school with a fine reputation and many, many

electives, clubs, and sports such as league basketball, volleyball, track, as well as intramural sports. The ACLC office has

application packets, and info about how to set up a tour of A.C.A. Ask about the ACLC student monthly discount!


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7. General Policies 1. Child Care begins at 6:30 am and ends at 5:30pm, with half an hour AfterCare which closes at 6:00pm for children

ages 1 to 5, and a half hour less for infants in the AM and PM, making the schedule for children under age one

7:00am-5:00pm, unless director/administrator makes an exception.* **See below for overstay charges.

2. PLEASE CALL ANY DAY YOUR CHILD WILL NOT BE PRESENT, so we can adjust personnel appropriately.

3. Our school day begins at 8:30 for2’s to 4’s (the grades with A Beka curriculum). Most seat work and academic activities for children ages 1 - 4 are accomplished in the mornings. Therefore, children who arrive late lose the impact of the excellent curriculum. Late arrivals greatly disturb the mid-day lunch and nap schedule, so ALL CHILDREN ARE TO ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 10 am. Likewise early withdrawals before noon disturb the learning.

4. The VPK schedule will differ from the usual A.C.L.C. schedule depending on whether an AM or PM class is chosen,

whether Before or After Care is needed, etc. Details are in the business office.

5. Children must be brought into the center by parent or guardian where sign-in/sign-out policies must be followed

closely and legibly. If your signature is difficult to read, we may ask you to print instead.

6. Parents/guardians must follow pick up times faithfully so teacher-child ratios can be adhered to regularly. It is our

responsibility to keep the staff large enough to cover for the children’s safety.

7. Children may not be picked up by someone under the age of 18 or by anyone NOT listed on the pick-up record in

the child’s file. Please do not call in a name; we must have changes in writing.

8. Both West and East Campuses are posted as Tobacco Free; honor this for the well-being of children.

9. In keeping with our Christian standards we ask that everyone on campus use proper language and attitudes,

avoiding profanity and coarse or loud speech.

10. For safety, only staff and/or trained, approved personnel with DCF clearance will be allowed to remain in the

room. Other situations must be approved by the Director prior to the occurrence; i.e.parents do not stay- see #11.

11. Parents are not to be to be present in any classroom other than those where their child is enrolled, and only

during the short period of student’s drop off or pick up unless by invitation as for a specially promoted on-site

program or event, thus keeping distractions in the classrooms to a minimum and separation anxiety to a lower level

for the children. Please leave within 2 to 3 minutes of drop off or pick up. We appreciate the help.

12. Under NO circumstances will the children be left in the Learning Center unattended at any time.

13. The use of the A.C.L.C. equipment is limited to children who are age appropriate, in order to provide safety and

enable teachers to provide activities that meet the needs of our young children.

14. Learning Center furnishings, equipment, or supplies may not be removed from rooms without consultation with the

Director and/or Adventure Christian Church Children’s Minister.

15. For the safety of our children, and the liability protection of adults, we staff according to the state guidelines for

each age level. Also, any substitute teachers will be background screened at the same level as regular teachers.

16. Anytime you have a change in information provided on the application such as ADDRESS, PHONE, EMAIL, WORK

PHONE NUMBER, please provide that within a week of the change, or in advance when possible. We are legally

required to have current information of this type in our files.

17. After we request it, bring needed documents, diapers, wipes, ointment, extra clothes, etc. within that week, or a $10

per week charge may be added to the next tuition due. There is a $1 charge for each Center-provided diaper. To

avoid these charges, bring requested items promptly. We appreciate the cooperation.

18. Scheduled Center times: 6:30 am - 5:30 PM. See Director for aftercare until 6 PM. By summer 2015 - There is a $2

PER DAY charge for time from 5:30-6:00pm or $1 PER DAY if proof of need is supplied on employment letterhead,

and a $2 PER MINUTE charge for overstay past 6:00 pm for all ages, to be paid in cash to closing teachers.


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8. Playground Policies

West Campus for Infants and Ones- 3800 State Rd 19 1. The playground for infants and ones is attached to the ones room and is fenced in. It is only accessible

through a latched gate. And shade is provided.

2. The playground is designed for use by children up to age one during the Center hours. During church

worship or Bible study services the age is extended to children up to age three.

3. Adult supervision is required for children using the playground at ALL times.

4. For the safety of our children, broad age groups may NOT use the playground at the same time.

5. Older children who are guests may not use the playground equipment; it is not age appropriate.

6. The playground will only be used during daylight hours.

7. A sign posted reads: For the use of supervised play by Adventure Christian Church or Adventure

Christian Learning Center during hours of operation only. Intruders will be considered trespassers.

8. Damaged equipment or other hazards should be reported immediately to the Director.

9. Drinking water for the students will be provided at playground time by the Center personnel.

East Campus for Twos to Fours- 1650 Lane Park 1. There are three playgrounds on site. One for ones at the West Campus with shade by a tarp. On the

East Campus playground for ones and twos is on the right in the back yard of the Center. Another

playground on the left is provided for children ages three through five. All are fenced in and are only

accessible through a latched gate. Shade is provided by trees or tarp.

2. These playgrounds are designed for use by children of the appropriate ages during the Center hours.

During church worship or Bible study services the age may be extended to children up to age six.

3. Adult supervision is required for children using the playground at ALL times.

4. For the safety of our children, broad age groups may NOT use the playground at the same time.

5. Older children who are guests may not use the playground equipment; it is not age appropriate.

6. The playground will only be used during daylight hours.

7. A sign posted reads: For the use of supervised play by Adventure Christian Church or Adventure

Christian Learning Center during hours of operation only. Intruders will be considered trespassers.

8. Damaged equipment or other hazards should be reported immediately to the Director.

9. Drinking water for the students will be provided at playground time by the Center personnel.


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9. Health and Hygiene Policies

At Adventure Christian Learning Center, we believe we have a responsibility to keep our children as clean and

safe and healthy as possible. This means we will respond to the health care needs of children with any serious

health issues. Parents or guardians of children with communicable health concerns (measles, roseola,

scarlatina and so on) are expected to inform the Director immediately if this occurs. After review, and

consultation with professional medical personnel, teachers and caregivers will be instructed in the precautions

and procedures to follow to avoid further spread of the infection. If there is serious concern, the Director may

decide to send notices home to other parents so they can take precautions as well.

Hand washing

Maintaining a sanitary environment is a top priority at Adventure Christian Learning Center. Because hands

are the main carrier of germs, we enforce a strict hand washing policy for all caregivers. Staff will wash their

hands:

upon arrival of the Center, before and after teaching assignments, after using bathroom facilities, after

changing diapers, after removal of disposable gloves, after changing a child’s soiled clothing, after

assisting a child with toileting, after wiping noses, or any contact with body fluids (spit, nasal fluids,

vomit, tears, urine, stool, blood), before and after snacks and meals.

Children will also wash hands:

after using bathroom facilities, after any contact with body fluids, before and after snacks and meals,

after craft projects that require it

Minor injuries

Parents will be notified of injuries occurring on site if first aid must be administered to their child. Also an

Accident/Injury report will be completed to describe the injury and the assistance given. This will require

parent/guardian signature; and it is to be kept in the child’s file. Copies available only if requested.

Medical treatment

If a child requires medical treatment, 911 will be called. If the injured child requires transportation to a

medical facility, effort will be made to notify the parent. However, the health of the child is the primary

concern so they will be transferred to the nearest hospital, unless otherwise instructed, which is Florida

Hospital Waterman, 1000 Waterman Way, Tavares, FL, 32778, 352-253-3333. Doctors’ RX or OTC can be

dispensed with parental instruction in writing- see the office. However, external applications, such as band-

aids, A & D ointment, diaper rash cream, essential oils such as lavender, fresh aloe leaf, or itch relief

substance, may be used freely by the staff unless the parent instructs us otherwise in advance.

Bottles Policy

We ask staff to be part of any bottle feeding while holding the child, unless the child is already capable of

holding it as per the parents, and only if they are sitting up (such as in a chair or slant infant seat). In this

manner we feel more assured that the child will not fall asleep with the bottle in mouth, creating a possible

choking hazard. If families make another choice at home, that is perfectly acceptable, but this is the choice we

have made as professional care-givers. Please do not instruct the staff to do otherwise.


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10. Illness Guidelines In maintaining a healthy learning environment, the following guidelines will be in effect at all times:

1.We ask each family to take personal items (bottles, sippy cups, etc) home daily. Each family washes

blankets/pillows weekly and sippy cups daily before returning them.

2.If your child has a temperature of 100 or more at home, they are to be kept out of the Center until free of

fever for at least 24 hours. (Giving fever reducer is NOT considered free of fever)

3.If your child is found to have green mucus or fever while at the Center, you will be contacted to take your

child home. He/she will be removed from the other children in an effort to reduce the risk of spreading

illness to the others. Please pick up the child within 1 hour of notification or overstay charges apply. THE

CHILD WILL NOT BE PERMITTED TO RETURN TO THE CENTER UNTIL we have a doctor’s release or they are

FREE OF FEVER AT LEAST 24 HOURS WITHOUT MEDICATION.

4.The Influenza Guidelines Brochure, which is recommended by the state, is made available before

enrollment. Please read it and keep to the guidelines provided.

5.When a child contracts a serious or contagious illness, ask the doctor to fax us a release or to write one to

be brought in to the office with the child re: date child may return to the Center.

6. If diarrhea is excessive (rule of thumb- 3 times or more) indicating more than mild intestinal distress,

parents will be called to take the child from the Center as this is not a healthy situation.

7. Any lice found will be addressed immediately. Verification of treatment is by product box, box top, or

empty bottle. A head check must be done upon return to the Center in an effort to keep this threat to a

minimum. Treatment must be repeated or refined to keep nits from hatching. This is to be done one week

after first treatment. Keeping your child’s belongings in a backpack to go home daily is one way to help

ensure lice will not be a problem at Adventure Christian Learning Center. Blankets and personal items will

be sent home on Fridays to be returned in clean condition on Monday, although some families prefer to

take them home daily. The center is also treated after any case of lice is found.

8.Some children develop a runny nose that persists, however, if your child has a nasal discharge that is green

or dark yellow in color or is related to more serious symptoms, you will be asked to keep your child from the

Center until cleared by a doctor to return.

7.Adventure Christian Learning Center will notify families of known contagious illness within the Center that

are perceived as a threat to other children’s health.**

8.Very serious conditions will be handled in cooperation with the Health Department and, if

necessary, the Center for Disease Control. Additionally, Adventure Christian Learning Center will follow any

and all guidelines and requirements as outlined under HIPAA laws.

9. If your child has a severe allergy, please consider consulting with your physician about obtaining an

EpiPen to be kept at the center, in case of an emergency reaction.

10. If your child has a medicine to be used you must write this on the medication log, even if it is over the

counter items, as we give nothing without a Drs. RX. This includes topical treatments as well.

**YOUR COOPERATION TO UPHOLD AND MAINTAIN OUR ILLNESS POLICY IS A REQUIREMENT FOR

ATTENDANCE AT ADVENTURE CHRISTIAN LEARNING CENTER. PLEASE COMMUNICATE ANY CONCERNS TO

THE DIRECTOR PRIOR TO REGISTERING YOUR CHILD.


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11. Safety Policies At Adventure Christian Learning Center, the safety and security of the children and the peace of mind for

parents and staff are of utmost importance. Following are some procedures which will help ensure a safe,

secure learning environment.

Only persons 18 or older will be hired to teach in the Center. (See “Youth Helpers” for information

regarding staff under the age of 18)

Teacher-child ratios will be maintained according to current standards set forth by Florida’s Statutes.

Entry to preschool rooms is limited to the children and their teachers during Center hours. Parents

should make sure their presence in the classroom is cleared through the Director. Remember,

onlookers can unnecessarily upset young children and distract teachers from their tasks. Therefore,

this kind of observing should be done sparingly by invitation from the Center to special events.

Webcams are located in each home room of the students – access is limited to those who are current

on payments, and one access code requested per family, please.

Names of children with food allergies are updated regularly and posted in plain view in EVERY class.

Foods served by the Center will be listed on notices to parents who use the lunch or snack program.

Running, shouting, etc. will be reserved for outside play.

Bottles, pacifiers, sippy cups, backpacks, blankets, pillows MUST be labeled with child’s name.

First aid kits are located in both the West and East Campus offices and elsewhere.

A phone is located in each classroom.

Fire extinguishers are located throughout our buildings according to the local fire marshal’s

requirements.

Paper work or items that are REQUIRED must be returned in a timely manner- such as immunization or

well baby check ups or other important items or paperwork that comes up. One week or more notice

will be given. If not returned within 7 days of request, $10 per week will be attached and any payments

will go to that balance first, thus potentially creating a loss of early payment discount.

Emergency evacuation routes are posted in each room. Other emergency procedures are made

available to teachers and practiced at regular intervals.

In case of fire or other disaster, teachers will take children to the closest exit as

posted and planned. Parents may pick up their child at this location.

In case of hurricane, tornado or other weather emergency, teachers will take

children to the most secure location as designated by local authority.

We strictly follow the media guidelines as per our application, getting a release in advance. And we ask

that the parents do the same: We ask that no parent post snapshots of the Center activities or of the

webcam (hard copy or social media) unless they obtain permission from parents of each child pictured.


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12. Security Measures/Sign In and Out Forms Picture Identification

At Adventure Christian Learning Center, photo identification is our means of identifying the parents or

guardians of the children we care for. The purpose is to assure parents their child will be released only to the

appropriate adult and to enable teachers or staff to be confident they are releasing children to appropriate

persons. Teachers and staff cannot know the parents/guardians of every child so the following procedures will

be followed consistently. Please provide photo ID of each frequent pick up person, including the parents.

1. Parents/guardians will fill out the Authorized Pick-up List when registering their child for attending

Adventure Christian Learning Center. All names of persons who have permission to sign out a child

MUST be on the form, or be given subsequently to the business office in writing and in advance.

2. The child will only be released to those whose name appears on the form and ONLY when proper

identification (photo identification) is shown, unless they are already known to staff.

3. Staff WILL NOT release children to anyone not on the list. Permission by phone is unacceptable and

parents/guardians should not expect staff to act in opposition to this policy.

4. Any discrepancies will be handled by the Director or Administrator.

5. The sign out procedure signifies the transferring of the care from the family to the Center, or from the

Center to the family or the family’s assignee. So it is significant enough to be done very exactly.

Additional Security Measures Security cameras continually run in each classroom (teaching environment) at Adventure Christian

Learning Center. These are provided as a courtesy, not a necessity, and there is no extra fee for them.

Please note that only one person per child will be granted access due to the size of our bandwidth.

Regular inspections of childcare rooms and equipment are conducted. Broken or inappropriate items

are replaced, repaired, or removed immediately.

Background screenings and reference checks of each employee are on file in the office.

Sign-in and Out Forms are used daily and kept on file. Please use them diligently and legibly. Do not be

offended if we ask you to write legibly rather than use your normal signature. It is for legal reasons.

13. Child Abuse Policy According to Florida law, all possible incidents of child abuse must be reported to the proper authorities. The

staff and/or Director of Adventure Christian Learning Center will follow these procedures:

Report the incident or suspected incident to the proper authorities

Document all efforts at handling the incident

Director will report the incident to the insurance company or attorney or other appropriate

department and follow professional guidance and recommendations

Seek help for those involved if warranted

Communicate with parents, guardians or teachers/staff/school board when appropriate


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14. Parent Responsibilities Parents are a child’s first and most important teachers. We count it a privilege to partner with you in laying foundations

for learning and faith in your child’s life. You can help by observing the following guidelines:

Be familiar with the Policies and Procedures of Adventure Christian Learning Center. These policies have

been developed and are enforced for the well being of every child in our care.

Every policy and guideline is based on the desire to provide a safe, secure learning environment for your

child. See the Director if you have any questions or concerns.

Remember to label ALL items belonging to your child with first AND last name. Thank you.

Extra clothes should be sent in your child’s backpack in case of accident or change in weather or activity. 2

sets should be sent if your child is potty training. Please include at least one pair of extra shoes.

Personal toys are to be left at home (except for a small comfort toy allowed at nap time). They make sharing

too difficult and may not be appropriate for use in teaching. If your child arrives with a toy, it will be placed

in his/her backpack to be taken home. Teachers may designate a date and time for show and tell. Your

child may bring a personal toy at this time.

Use names of your child’s teachers/friends in a positive way when talking about school.

Make sure there is a staff member to meet you when bringing your child to the Center.

Give staff necessary information about your child, but If your child has any special information to be shared

with the teacher please do it in writing on the daily or weekly sheets. Thank you.

Any one picking up your child MUST be prepared to show identification. Anyone NOT listed on your child’s

Pick-Up List will NOT be permitted to sign your child out of the Center. Please do not send someone to pick

up your child if you haven’t listed them on your child’s Information sheet. Remember, staff members may

not accept permission over the phone.

Children MUST be signed in. This is not only an A.C.L.C. policy, it also required by the state. This is the

manner in which we log that responsibility for the child’s welfare has switched to or from us.

Please bring your child daily by 10:00 AM or earlier (as to stay on schedule for the USDA lunch count), say

good-bye to your child in a matter-of-fact manner and leave quickly within 2 to 3 minutes or less. (If you

need to bring the child later, please call for permission) This helps in several ways, including:

o Traffic in and out of the room causes disruptions in teaching

o Lengthy goodbyes unnecessarily upset young children already in the room

o Prolonging the goodbye may make separation anxiety in your child more pronounced.

o Bringing the child later than 10:00 AM seriously disrupts the classroom flow, 8:30 AM - noon is

necessary for the curriculum taught in classes for children ages 2-5, including VPK.

Note: If you need to check on your child, allow a staff member to help you. If you check on your child yourself after

settling in, he may be upset because of seeing or hearing you, so please be prepared to take your child with you as it

may be too difficult for your child to separate from you more than once.

If your child has a problem at the Center, please discuss it right away with the Director, not the teacher.

Parents are invited to participate in any of the many events at Adventure Christian Church. Regular

announcements will be sent home communicating dates and times of events.

Occasionally Center children may be invited to take part in a program at ACC.


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15. Discipline Policies At Adventure Christian Learning Center, a positive approach to discipline is a must. Our goal is for children to

develop the skills necessary to make good decisions on their own. Our commitment to positive reinforcement

is key to success in this area. We often ask our children “Are you making a good choice right now?”

We use no corporal punishment, no singling out to embarrass, and so on. Instead, redirection will be the first

step in preventing discipline problems. In this manner, teachers can intervene before an unacceptable

behavior occurs. Staff will counsel children according to Scripture in an effort to lead them to behavior

honoring to our Lord. Following are some basic guidelines for discipline at ACLC:

1. Encouragement will be given freely as it motivates the child to do good. At ACLC, we DO NOT use

criticism as a form of discipline. It is self-defeating and not a part of our Discipline Policies.

2. Teachers will be consistent in their expectations.

3. Reasonable limits will be set for the children which are age-specific.

4. Feelings of all children will be allowed to be expressed unless dangerous. (“I feel sad”,” I feel like

running”, are acceptable, but “I want to hurt my friends” will not be acceptable)

5. Children may not be able to readily control themselves, but destructive or disruptive behavior will

never be tolerated. Occasionally, a child will be removed from their classroom and moved to a

different environment to be given time to control himself/herself.

6. All staff members will AVOID embarrassing a child, or giving them negative labels.

7. Staff will avoid threats and will not deny food, water, or rest as a means of correction.

8. Children will be taught sharing, and apologies but they may make their own choices; however their

choices may have consequences (i.e. they may lose a privilege if a poor choice is made).

9. Teachers will closely follow the curriculum and scheduled activities, providing interesting and

challenging things to do in order to reduce the possibility of behavioral problems.

10. Since misbehavior is often a plea for help, teachers give bountiful emotional support to misbehavers.

11. Teachers will attempt to help each child feel good about him/herself. A healthy self-concept is the

right of every child made in God’s image.

12. Teachers will notice and approve a child’s appropriate behavior. This helps reduce the time spent

correcting misbehavior.

13. Time out may be used, but is to be used sparingly, only when deemed necessary. A maximum of 1

minute per year of age is allowed. Before and after any time out is used, the children involved will be

counseled concerning appropriate behavior, so it is tied to the good choices we need to reinforce.

14. Incident Reports will be written by the teachers for occasional issues. These must be signed by the

adult picking up the child and a copy can be provided upon request. If the same issues recur or become

more severe, Discipline Reports will be written by the school office with increasing mandatory time off

after Discipline Report #3. The goal is to alert parents before such measures would need to occur.

15. As per state regulations, “children may not be denied active play as a consequence of misbehavior.”


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Avoiding basic discipline problems

Staff at Adventure Christian Learning Center will:

Maintain the correct teacher-child ratio.

Plan, prepare, and be ready to teach.

Avoid clutter in the room as this encourages frustration and over-excitement

Make sure children know they are loved, but that the teachers are in charge!

o Children will not be allowed to hurt themselves

o Children will not be allowed to hurt others

o Children will not be allowed to hurt the things in the classroom

What about the child who bites?

We cannot allow biting to continue for the safety and well-being of all the other children. Normal reprimands

will be given and it is best if the correction of this type of behavior occurs in the home. However, there may be

occasions when other steps are taken, including removing the child from that particular environment, time

out, a trip to the office or sending the child home for a suspension. But if a child insists on biting, shadowing

will be begun. When being shadowed, a child is followed by a staff member whose responsibility is to watch

and observe that particular child. When the situation predicts a bite, the staff person is there to redirect the

child’s attention to another activity. This method is usually effective within a very short time. We appreciate

your cooperation if this situation occurs.

Serious Behavior Concerns

When a child displays serious behavior problems, the Center will require parents or guardians to fully

cooperate with staff to bring an end to the problem. The following steps will be followed in this situation:

1. The Director will be notified that serious behavior continues and begin sending Discipline Reports.

2. The Director will go over documentation of previous incidences and begin an observation assignment.

3. A behavior plan may be agreed upon between the Director and the child’s caregivers and notified

by phone, in person and possibly by written letter so both parents are aware.

4. Parents must sign that they understand the behavior plan and MUST agree to enforce the plan at

home. If parents refuse, the child must be withdrawn immediately for safety of the other children.

5. The plan and the child’s progress will be monitored daily as well as regularly throughout the day.

6. If the child meets the goals of the plan, it continues until the child behaves appropriately without it.

7. If the child does not meet the goals of the plan within a reasonable time, parents must agree to seek

professional help for their child. Parents and staff will keep Director/Administration updated.

8. If the behavior continues, the child will be withdrawn from the Center. The usual withdrawal policy

will be followed in such a case, with two weeks of payments due beyond the date of notice.


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16. Promotion At Adventure Christian Learning Center, promotion of children to the next age level is based on:

Ages 6 weeks – 2 years; birthdate (may be promoted on their birthday with benchmarks of readiness

being met which the teacher will assess and present to the administration who will then contact the

parents) In some cases classes may be split into smaller increments than one year, such as older and

younger 2s. The yearly contracts/assignments are based on the age of the student at the time of the

contract beginning. For older students, the cut off will be September 1st as per state guidelines.

Ages 3 -4; the same system as the Public School system (must be this age by September 1st).

17. Policies for Teachers Scholastically- Since planned lessons are far more effective, teachers are expected to use and teach according

to the curriculum furnished by Adventure Christian Learning Center, submitting plans regularly to the Director.

Spiritually- Since teachers and childcare providers at Adventure Christian Learning Center play a role in laying a

spiritual foundation for the students, all staff members are professing Christians who worship regularly, as

verified by their pastors, who want to love and nurture the children.

Cleanliness- Teachers will assist in cleaning the room and disinfecting and putting away toys and all materials

at the end of the various sessions. They will set the example of personal cleanliness with neatness and

frequent hand washing and will insist that the students do the same.

Background checks- Background screenings (see below) must be in place before employment may begin.

Credentials – In order to insure that we have knowledgeable staff, staff members will be expected to receive

the training required by the state as soon as possible. Currently the state requires 45 hours of training as a

minimum. Further training is available for higher levels such as CDA, or director level. A reasonable time limit

is set for completion, and employment is dependent upon completion by the deadline.

Youth Helpers

The law requires that staff under the age of 18 must be under the direct supervision of an additional

employee who is over the age of 18 and has active credentials.

Youth must have the same background clearance as teachers according to state regulations.

Screening for Teachers Here at Adventure Christian Learning Center, we strictly follow the legal guidelines set by state requirements,

and go beyond them, to screen our employees. The ACLC background screening includes:

An application form to be filled out by all employees and volunteers with information on their Christian

faith and worship, past and present. This is followed up by a Pastor’s Recommendation Form.

FDLE/FBI electronic criminal background check

Work history check; and as of August 2015, prohibited substance test administered and passed.

A signed affidavit of good moral character, and no history of childcare license revoked or denied

Signed Child Abuse Statement (stating they will report any possible child abuse that is noted)

Verification of any Child Care or Educational credentials


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18. Teacher-Child Ratios Proper teacher/child ratios in each room during classroom curriculum hours (8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) allow

teachers to provide quality learning experiences and more adequately meet the needs of each individual child.

Ratios are set by the State of Florida and are determined by the age of the children in the room. (Additional

staff may be required for children with special needs.) We also encourage screened volunteers to assist at

times so the children have extra supervision.

Age Ratio

0-12 months 1 teacher to 4 children

12 months – 2 years 1 teacher to 6 children

2 years – 3 years 1 teacher to 11 children

3 – 4 years 1 teacher to 15 children

4 years – 5 years 1 teacher to 20 children

VPK 4 years 1 teacher to 11 children /2 teachers to 20 children

Adventure Christian Learning Center will hire and staff within state guidelines to ensure the safety and well

being of the children and staff. We also meet or exceed the minimum recommended space requirements in

each classroom, which is 35 square feet per child, however we may exceed this space requirement during

times of special combined classes (such as Chapel, Reading, Math Flashcards, Music, Spanish and so on) for

brief periods as per Florida statutes which are posted in each room.

19. Holiday and Vacation Information Q- When is the Center closed for holidays?

A- As is stated on Hours and Rates summary, on these eight holidays, if they fall on a weekday, the Center will

be closed: New Year’s Day, President’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day (Monday observed), 4th of July, Labor

Day (Monday observed), Thanksgiving, and Christmas, additionally we close at 4 PM on Christmas Eve.

Q-Do we pay less on weeks that the Center is closed early or is closed one full day for a holiday?

A-As is stated on the Hours and Rates summary, the normal weekly rate will be paid by the family though the

Center is closed one day in that week. The purpose of this requirement is to allow the staff to have any or all

of these eight holidays as paid time off for them if they fall on a weekday.

Q- When we take a family vacation or a child is skip can we skip a weekly payment?

A- You are not paying for CHILD CARE, but to rent a spot in the Center, so our protocol is this: tuition is still

due - unless form 365 is filled out and given to the administrator after 52 weeks of timely payments. If

approved the family may be granted one week of non-payment for a family vacation if the student will not be

present that week. This must be done in writing on the Form 365 at least two weeks prior. Thereafter, one

week is available under the same terms annually. These forms are available from the office. Other weeks away

must be paid.


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20. Absence Procedures Q- What if my child goes home sick for the last 3 days of the week? Can I deduct 3 days from my next

payment?

A- No, since we cannot hire someone and then let them go each time an illness occurs, our expenses do not

change when a child or even several children become sick. Our employees are counting on consistent

paychecks which is the reason for the students’ payments. Families pay to “rent” the spot for their child so it is

available when the child returns.

Q- What if my doctor tells me I must keep my child home for an entire week. Can I skip paying a whole week?

A- The same answer as above applies. The only time you might consider skipping a payment is if the student

must be withdrawn for a while, and that is only wise if the child will be ill for over three weeks since

termination policy is to pay on Monday for the next week, give notice on that day and then pay two more

weeks to fulfill the contractual obligations. Even in extreme cases of long illness or a long vacation the family

should think twice about withdrawing as they run the risk that their spot may be filled when they return to re-

enroll.

21. Termination Information Q- If we find that we must terminate the contract before the year elapses, how is that done?

A-As is stated on the Confidential Tuition Contract under Terms of Cancellation, either party can cancel c

arrangement with two weeks’ notice. The family will come to the office with their normal payment and their

need to terminate in writing to . From that date, with the current weeks’ payment in hand, two more full

weeks payments are necessary, which presumably will allow to Center to fill the vacancy seamlessly.

Q- What if the Center calls off the contract, how does that work?

A-If exigent circumstances require the Center to give termination notice, ACLC will usually give two weeks’

notice unless the circumstances warrant an immediate removal for the safety or well-being of the students. In

the case of immediate removal being requested, no further payments will be due from the family.

22. Center-Provided Food Program Adventure Christian Learning Center has federal approval on a USDA Food Program to provide to both our

West and East Campus quality breakfasts, lunches and afternoon snacks at no cost to the students. These

meals must adhere to the standards of good nutrition as set by USDA foods which include fluid milk served at

breakfast and lunch. In cooperation with this program we must have each Center family sign a form stating

the approximate combined incomes of those in the home. (Please understand that this form states your best

estimate of income; there is no need to submit any tax returns or pay stubs and all information is kept

confidential.)

Menus are planned by our state licensed Kitchen Manager. Menus will be provided in advance to the families.

If you must substitute, such as no fluid milk, please get a Drs. statement on letterhead that a milk substitute,

including water, is allowed and recommended by them as a healthy alternative.


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Regarding the food program for West Campus, infants 12 months or under: we offer one dairy-based and one

soy-based formula. Some families are using breast milk instead, or may prefer to continue with a doctor

recommended formula. For children ages 4 months and older we offer an approved assortment of solid baby

foods and cereals. As always, we will work with the parents on the gradual introduction of new foods and we

will be promoting good nutrition all the way. If you have more questions you may contact the school office or

the food personnel.

By the way, state law as of early 2014 requires child care providers to give parents notice of special food such

as birthday party snacks or holiday meals- items not listed on our menu - so please watch the entrance door or

your child’s classroom door for such notices. And if your child’s birthday is coming, let us know several days in

advance of any treats you may plan to provide. We would be sad if we could not serve them because of the

notice being too short. Thanks for helping us maintain state rules.

Working for the good of your children,

Cheryl Dykstra, administrator A.C.L.C.