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Table of Contents WELCOME………………………………………………..…………………………………………3

MISSION AND VISION STATEMENT….…………………………………………….…………….3 NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY…………...……………………………………...4 LEADERSHIP…………………………………………………………..……………………………..6 MONARCH CURRICULUM…………………………………………..………………….………….7 PROGRAMS…………………………………………………………………………………………..9

NIDO (INFANT) PROGRAM……………………………………………………………......9 TODDLER PROGRAM………………………………………………………………….....10 PRIMARY (PRESCHOOL) PROGRAM………………………………..………………...11 KINDERGARTEN………………………………………………………………………..…13

ADJUSTMENT TO SCHOOL………………………………………………………...…………...13 WHAT TO BRING…………………………………………………………………………………...14 TRANSITIONS……………………………………………………………………………….……...16 ATTENDANCE POLICY…………………………………………………………………….….…..17 ABSENCE FOR VACATION……………….………………………………………………..……..17 ARRIVAL AND PICK­UP…...……………………………………………………………………….17 LATE PICK­UP FEES…………………………………………………………………………..…..18 VISITOR POLICY……………………………………………………………………………………17 PARKING LOT MAP/DROP­OFF LANE ………………………………………………………....19 MEALS………………………………………………………………………………………………..19 DISCIPLINE……………………………………………………………………………………….….20 HEALTH…………………………………………………………………………………………….…21 BIRTHDAYS……………………………………………………………………………………….....23 CUBBIES/EMAILS/BULLETIN BOARDS…………………………………………….….…..…...23 COMMUNICATION …………….…………………………………………………………………...23 PARENT INVOLVEMENT……………………………………………………………………….….24 PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES…………………………….……………………………..24 CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS……………….…………………………….….24 RESOLVING PARENT CONCERNS…………………………………………………..…....……25 SCHOOL CALENDAR……………………………………………………….……………………..25 CLOSURES………………………………...………………………………..……………………...25 SEVERE WEATHER CLOSURES……………………………………………….………………..25 ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES……………………………………………..26 TUITION PAYMENTS……………………………………………………….……...………………27 ATTACHMENTS (Illness Guidelines, Calendar, Weather Guidelines for Outdoor Play) ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HANDBOOK­ Please Sign

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WELCOME Welcome to First Steps at Monarch Montessori. This handbook outlines the procedures that make this program a unique and outstanding educational environment for children. Please keep it handy for reference. If you have further questions or need clarification, please ask, as ongoing communication between parents and staff is vital for an excellent school experience. School Hours: 7 AM to 6 PM Main Phone Number: 303.712.2001 Fax Number: 303.500.0646 Website: www.MonarchM.com MISSION STATEMENT AND VISION We aim to help each child reach their full potential in all areas of life. Monarch Montessori provides a holistic approach to learning, based on the educational philosophy of Dr. Montessori. Our experienced educators tailor to the individual need of each child, while our program welcomes families of all race, ethnicity and economic background. This method will support our students as they become “engaged learners today” and the “leaders of tomorrow.” The Vision of Monarch Montessori is to create a carefully planned Montessori environment which will enable the child to develop within himself, independence, self­discipline, self­respect and respect for others and the environment. We believe that parents and the environment they create at home are the chief educational influences in the life of a child. As a school, we want to complement you in your work as a parent and help you in discovering who your child is and what his/her needs are as he/she begins the adventure of life. It is our aim to help your child become a creative, competent human being who is fully aware of him/herself, of others, and of the world around him. To recognize this vision, we have created a school where children can be themselves in an atmosphere of freedom and responsibility. It is a place where little ones will come joyfully and become absorbed and interested in their learning. Core Values~ Our core values are keenly focused on:

Nurturing the love of learning through opportunities to engage in spontaneous, meaningful activities under the guidance of a Montessori­trained teacher.

A prepared environment where classrooms are well organized by curriculum area and meticulously maintained. The teacher monitors the child's progress though observation and extensive record­keeping.

Mixed­age groupings based on the scientific observations by Dr. Montessori of a child’s developmental stages. The natural development of a child proceeds through several distinct planes of development.

Self discipline develops when learning is an exciting process of discovery, supporting concentration and intrinsic motivation.

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Holistic education that focuses on a child’s academics, creativity, physical and social

Dr. Maria Montessori saw that children underwent extraordinary transformations in overall happiness, self­confidence and self­discipline when they were allowed to follow their innate needs. She saw that the work of a child, therefore, was fundamentally different to that of the adult: that the child worked for the joy of the process rather than for the end result, that the child had a need to repeat activities over and over until an inner need was fulfilled, and that the child was excited and energized through work, rather than burdened and fatigued by it. She felt that children only stopped loving learning when they were forced to go against their natural impulses.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS Monarch Montessori of Denver adheres to a policy of nondiscrimination in the admission of students. It admits students of any race, color, national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at Monarch Montessori of Denver. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of its student admissions policies, employment policies, educational policies, and athletic and other school administered programs. Non­Discrimination Against and Accommodation of Individuals with Disabilities

1. Generally­ Monarch is committed to providing quality developmental education for each individual child. As part of that commitment, Monarch complies with all applicable laws provided for nondiscrimination in enrollment and participation against students and parents with disabilities. Monarch will not exclude any student or family from the full and equal enjoyment of its program on the basis of the student's disability, or the disability of the student's parent or another individual associated with the student, unless the student, parent, or other individual poses a direct threat to the health or safety of himself/herself or others at Monarch. Monarch also provides reasonable accommodations for students and parents as appropriate in accordance with applicable laws.

2. Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for a Student­ Parents of a student with

disabilities who wish to request a reasonable accommodation(s) must submit such request(s) to the Associate Director. Reasonable accommodations may include, but are not in any way limited to, the following:

Diapering students beyond the Toddler program or assisting with toileting. Monitoring or assisting with glucose testing and insulin use. Monitoring or assisting with oxygen, emergency medications, or medications to

alleviate chronic conditions. Providing alternate activities or incentive systems for students with cognitive, social, or

emotional disabilities. Assisting students with leg braces, crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs.

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Permitting the admittance of service animals or one­to­one aides provided by the student's family and meeting licensing and Monarch requirements.

Permitting students to consume different foods and/or to eat at different times than otherwise provided by Monarch’s menu and/or schedule.

Permitting students to play indoors on days of extreme heat or cold, or with high allergen levels or poor air quality.

Providing or permitting the use of specialized or adapted furniture, utensils, cups, toys, and books.

Upon receipt of an accommodation request, Monarch will meet with the student's parents to discuss and identify the precise limitation(s) resulting from the disability and the potential accommodation(s) Monarch might make to help overcome those limitation(s). Monarch will evaluate each student's specific abilities and needs on a case­by­case basis, and will make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures as necessary to afford its services and facilities to the student, unless the modification would impose an undue burden on Monarch or would fundamentally alter the nature of Monarch’s services. Monarch will take necessary steps to ensure that any reasonable accommodation is integrated into the usual routine and programs at Monarch to the greatest extent possible. Parents are required to provide all equipment, medicines, medical supplies, food, and other materials or supplies that are not otherwise regularly provided by Monarch, as well as containers for proper maintenance and disposal of all materials or supplies. Parents may be asked to assist in training Monarch staff in the use of the materials or supplies, and to assist with proper disposal of the same.

3. Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for a Parent or Other Individual­ Parents or other qualified individuals with disabilities also may submit a written request for reasonable accommodation(s) to the Associate Director. For example, such reasonable accommodation may include providing a sign language interpreter for a deaf parent at a significant or lengthy parent­teacher meeting. Upon receipt of an accommodation request, Monarch will meet with the qualified individual with a disability to discuss and identify the precise limitation(s) resulting from the disability and the potential accommodation(s) Monarch might make to help overcome those limitation(s). Monarch will determine the feasibility of the requested accommodation(s) in accordance with applicable laws.

4. Medical and Other Documentation­ Parents of a student with disabilities are

encouraged to submit a request for reasonable accommodation as far in advance as possible in order to allow Monarch adequate time to consider the request and to work with the parents to obtain any medical or other documentation that may be necessary to consider or provide the requested accommodation. Depending on the type of disability and the requested accommodation, such documentation may include:

A Medical Management Plan detailing all necessary care for the student's medical

and/or behavioral management and signed by the student's physician and parents. Any other health­related documents deemed relevant by the student's physician; A list of emergency contacts, which may include the student's physician, available by

phone each day that the student is attending Monarch.

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Information regarding use and disposal all equipment, medicines, medical supplies, food, and other materials or supplies to be provided by the student's parents that are not otherwise regularly provided by Monarch and that are necessary to meet or comply with the student's Medical Management Plan and any other health­related documents provided by the student's physician.

Written authorization to undertake steps indicated on the student's Medical Management Plan, such as administration of medication or performance of other medical tasks.

A general release and waiver of liability for care in a form required of all students as a requirement of attendance, signed by the student's parents, which releases Monarch and its agents from liability stemming from any action relating to the care of the student.

Parents are responsible for keeping the documentation up­to­date and for informing Monarch immediately of any change in the student's disabilities, needs, and/or health. Successful participation and accommodation of children with disabilities depends on an actively cooperative relationship and ongoing communication between the parents and Monarch. LEADERSHIP Board of Directors

Plan, develop and establish broad policy for the school School’s financial health Evaluation of the school leadership.

Executive Director Rob Clemens­ 303.712.2001 x331. RClemens@MonarchM.com

Mission and vision Financial oversight Fundraising and grants

Associate Director Noel Giametta­ 303.712.2005 NGiametta@MonarchM.com

Regulatory compliance Management of administrative team Committee development (Facilities, PTO)

Program and Academic Director of First Steps at Monarch Montessori Tammi Mobley­ 303.712.2006 TMobley@MonarchM.com

Oversight of student academics (curriculum and classroom management) Management and development of teachers Student orientation and transition (in collaboration with teacher and parent) CDHS compliance

Marketing and First Steps Enrollment Kailey Runtas­ 303.712.2007 KRuntas@MonarchM.com

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Tours and enrollment Tuition accounts (billing, credits, vacation days) Student file compliance Monarch branding, marketing, social media and website

Administrative Assistants, school main number 303.712.2001 Tahmea “Mea” Brunson­ TBrunson@MonarchM.com Eliana Cardoza­ ECardoza@MonarchM.com

Extra­curricular programs Swipe cards Lunch menus Absences Pick­up authorizations

Facilities Manager Joe Salas ­ JSalas@MonarchM.com

Security Repairs

MONARCH CURRICULUM What makes Montessori Education Unique?

The "whole child" approach. The primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach full potential in all areas of life. Activities promote the development of social skills, emotional growth, and physical coordination as well as cognitive preparation. The holistic curriculum allows the child to experience the joy of learning and to develop self­esteem and independence. The "Prepared Environment". In order for self­directed learning to take place, the whole learning environment­room, materials and social climate must be supportive of the learner. The teacher provides necessary resources, including opportunities for children to function in a safe and positive climate. The teacher thus gains the children's trust, which enables them to try new things and build self­confidence. The Montessori materials. Dr. Montessori's observations of the kinds of "toys" which children enjoy and return to play with repeatedly led her to design a number of multi­sensory sequential and self­correcting materials which facilitate the learning of skills and concepts. Our teachers follow "Montessori principles" as they structure new activities for the classroom.

The Teacher. Originally called a "Directress" the Montessori teacher functions as a facilitator of learning. She is a role model, designer of the environment, resource person, demonstrator, record­keeper and observer of each child's growth and development. She encourages, respects, and loves each child as a special, unique

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individual; she also provides support for parents and joins them in a partnership to nurture the development of the child.

What Makes Monarch Unique?

Monarch Montessori of Denver was developed in 2010 by a group of dedicated Montessori educators looking to bring a unique design into practice. The vision was to create a stable environment in which a child could continue growth within the Montessori practice from infancy through fifth grade. Elements of the program cater to the various needs of families and children in the surrounding neighborhoods. Part­time schedules for infants and toddlers allow children to experience the curriculum without needing to be away from the parent/primary caregiver 5 days a week. Extend hours and year­round care caters to working parents.

How Does Montessori Work? Each Montessori class, from Infants through Preschool, operates on the principle of freedom within limits. Every program has its set of ground rules which differ from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs: respect for each other and for the environment. Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. The teacher relies on his or her observations of the children to determine which new activities and materials he may introduce to individual children or to a small or large group. The aim is to encourage active, self­directed learning and to strike a balance of individual mastery with small group collaboration within the whole group community. The three­year­age span in each class provides a family­like grouping where learning can take place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own learning. Because this peer group learning is intrinsic to Montessori, there are often more conversation­language experiences in the Montessori classroom than in conventional early education settings. Our Goals for the Child

To develop a positive a positive attitude toward self, other and the environment. To develop a high sense of self­esteem To develop a habit of concentration for lifelong study skills ­To develop and foster

curiosity To acquire the basic skills necessary for a lifetime of learning. To foster inner discipline and sense of order To develop habits of initiative and persistence To develop socially acceptable behavior To develop the child's innate, ultimate potential through high self­expectations.

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The Monarch Educator Our teachers are passionate about changing the way students are taught. They have successfully completed required trainings and have the utmost respect for the child as an individual. They are absolutely committed to their students’ developmental successes and truly care about fostering an excitement to discover. Our teachers model and expect students to be caring and compassionate. They are creative, relentless and unbelievably motivated. They work together, learn from each other, and do whatever it takes day in and day out to make sure their students succeed. We expect all teachers and assistant teachers to:

Observe all federal, state, local and other applicable laws and regulations pertaining to the delivery of the early learning programs of Monarch Montessori.

Assume the responsibility of carrying out one's work in the best interest of the children and families served by Monarch Montessori.

Demonstrate loyalty to Monarch Montessori and provide the best possible service based on individual capacity

Create a positive, prepared environment for students. Focus on student development, noting special needs of individual students. Approach learning on a holistic front, developing the child’s sense of self. Confront a challenge, and be willing to examine themselves personally and

professionally and be eager to receive thoughtful, constructive feedback. Collaborate with families and be sensitive to the individual approaches and

parenting styles. Remain open to teacher training and excited to implement what is best for the

child.

PROGRAMS

Monarch is committed to creating community where the highest ideals of the Montessori philosophy are implemented. The objective of the program is to help the child achieve his/her fullest potential and mental ability by carefully preparing a learning environment to meet the child’s needs. The Montessori approach places emphasis on educating the whole child, covering all aspects of development – intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Building upon children’s intrinsic desire to learn, Montessori created ideal environments full of opportunities for children to experiment and initiate their own education. She believed that teachers could be trained to make children confident and capable self educators prepared and equipped for the future. Nido (Infant) Program

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From the moment infants are born, they begin learning and observing everything around them. They respond to touch, sound, light, taste and smell. That learning continues every day through each experience. The “Nido” (the Italian word for nest) is a prepared environment that is warm, safe and comforting for the infant. The staff is wonderful at responding to the child’s needs and fostering their individual curiosity. Dr. Maria Montessori says, “Our work as adults does not consist in teaching, but in helping the infant mind in its work of development.” Each child is respected as an individual and the Nido serves as a safe and reassuring beginning. As a result, the child is a joyful and confident learner; happy to explore and practice new skills. The First Steps at Monarch infant environment stresses the importance of freedom of movement. The infants are free to move without restrictions. Through movement, the infant becomes more aware of their bodies and are able to develop coordination and flexibility without inhibition. You will notice that there are no “containers” in our classrooms (play pens, high chairs, cribs, bouncy seats, etc.) The infant environment (NIDO) spans 6 weeks through 15 months. Each caregiver responds to the individual needs of the child and tries to emulate their home routine to ease the transition and maintain a personalized schedule. As the child becomes more mobile and has an increased need for environmental interaction the caregivers adapt and foster independence, language, mobility, and sensory exploration. An Infants Daily Schedule follows the child. Parents provide a schedule of the child’s typical day Toddler Program The Toddler program is designed for children 15 months through 36 months. The Toddler classroom offers space for movement, space for individual work and space for group activities. Toddlers are given the opportunities to work on the development of language skills, art, music, sensorial, and practical life. We use a number of multi­sensory, sequential, and self­correcting Montessori materials to facilitate learning. The tasks are designed so that each new step is built upon what the child has already mastered, thus removing the negative experience of frequent failure. A carefully planned series of successes builds upon inner confidence in the child assuring him that he can learn by himself. These confidence building activities contribute to the child’s healthy emotional development. In addition, the environment is focused on developing the self, finding out a sense of identity. Developing the will, self­confidence, self­care and skills give them a strong foundation for academics and for life. Toddler Daily Schedule:

7 am ­ 8:30am: Free choice activities 8:30am – 9am: Breakfast 9am – 11am: Montessori work cycle 11am – 11:30am: Outdoor play 11:30am ­ 12:30am: Lunch 12:30pm – 3pm: Nap 3pm – 4pm: Snack

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4pm – 5:15pm: Outdoor play 5:15pm – 6pm: Free choice activities

Unique to Montessori, is the 2 hour uninterrupted work period each day for Toddlers. Tardiness interrupts the learning environment and distracts the other students in the class that have focused on an activity. In addition, it throws off your child’s routine, sometimes impacting their entire morning. Please avoid chronic tardiness and have Toddlers arrive by 9 am. Primary (Preschool) Program For the preschool aged child (3 years­6 years), we foster the process of self­creation by providing an environment in which the child can develop independently at his or her own pace while still gaining those social, physical, intellectual and emotional skills needed to function at best in society. It is composed of all of the instructive materials developed by Maria Montessori with additional supplemental materials with music, art, and language components. The children learn through doing, experiencing the joy of individual discovery and mastery on their own terms, at their own speed. Practical Life On first entering the Montessori school, children are given the opportunity to develop important life skills which will allow them greater freedom in the classroom. They learn to manage their own clothes using dressing frames to practice buttons, zips, and bows. They are also shown how to care for their classroom, using child­sized brushes and dusters. Developing practical skills ­ like pouring drinks from a jug and setting tables ­ and social skills with friends and teachers, enable them to be capable, self­reliant members of the community. Sensorial First learning is through the senses, so Montessori schools use a range of well thought out exercises to help children sort, match, and compare objects by shape, size, touch, taste and sound. These early sensorial impressions boost children's powers of observation and discrimination, broaden their vocabulary and contribute to their later understanding of formal educational concepts.

Language and Literacy Montessori's language materials are based on a carefully structured phonic approach to writing and reading. Recognized for their excellence, they are used widely in many non Montessori schools and settings where special help is required. First, children learn sensorially by tracing sandpaper letters with their fingers while they are told the sounds. Soon they are writing simple words with movable letters, matching words with objects and reading their first stories in phonic readers. When asked how they learned to read and write Montessori children will often answer, "I did it myself."

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Mathematics Essentially mathematics is about understanding relationships in the environment and being able to express them in mathematical terms. Montessori materials, like the number rods, golden beads and spindle boxes, are simple and interesting and provide step­by­step learning. They are also self­correcting, which means that children can see at a glance if they have made a mistake and can put it right without a teacher's help. This enables them to progress at their own rate and understand each stage thoroughly before they move on to the next stage. Cultural In the Montessori classroom children use globes, puzzle maps, and flags to underpin activities which build their understanding of other countries, cultures, and people. Children are also taught to match, classify, and name the elements and species of the natural world using picture and name cards. Classroom plant growing and caring for pets help to form a bridge between the child's knowledge of the immediate environment and the wider world. Art Cart The “Art Cart” will visit each primary class once a week for 30 minutes to introduce a new art lesson to the students. The classroom will keep this work on the shelf for a week, allowing children to repeat it as many times as they want and complete it at any time during the day. Art teacher will include a section about the weekly activity in each classroom newsletter. Children should be dropped off between 8:00 and 8:15 AM and picked up by 3:30 PM (unless attending before, aftercare or half­day). There is a drop­off lane is available daily between 7:45 and 8 AM, in which Primary staff will help children exit the car at the front door and walk them to the classrooms. Tardiness interrupts the learning environment and distracts the other students in the class that have focused on an activity. In addition, it throws off your child’s routine, sometimes impacting their entire morning. Please avoid chronic tardiness and have preschoolers arrive by 8:15 am. Before/After Care is available for children as space permits, so please sign­up in advance, or for drop­ins, fill out the Drop­in form at the front desk.

Before Care: Available 5 days a week between 7am – 8am After Care: Available 5 days a week between 3:30pm ­ 6pm.

Primary Daily Schedule:

7am­8am: Before care in the cafeteria 7:45am­ 8am: Drop­off lane at front entrance 8:15am – 11:30am: Montessori work cycle 11:30am – 12:30pm: Lunch and recess 12:30 pm: Pick­up for children attending half­day 1pm – 3pm: Rest or Afternoon work 3pm ­3:30pm: Afternoon snack and pick up for students completing School Day schedule 3:30pm­ 6pm: Aftercare/recess

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**Aftercare groups are located on the playground and cafeteria Afternoon Half­Day Schedule

12:30­3:30 Arrival and work cycle (afternoon snack available on snack shelf for all students) 3:30­ 6 Aftercare Optional­ located on the playground and cafeteria

Kindergarten (children 5 years old by October 1st) Our kindergarten program is part of the DPS Charter system. Students whom have had prior Montessori classroom experience will join a Primary (mixed age 3, 4 and 5 year old) class for the morning work cycle. The third year experience gives the children opportunities as leaders, models, and teachers. They proceed to lunch, outdoor play and afternoon lessons combined with Monarch Charter kindergarten program. The afternoon will focus on level­grouping in math, reading, culture, and specials in music, Spanish and physical education. Kindergarten students will follow the Monarch Charter calendar for all breaks, start dates and end dates. Kindergarten students participating in before care and aftercare contract with the Denver YMCA. Monarch Charter follows the Denver Public Schools tuition rate, and parents write tuition payments to Monarch Charter. Lunch for kindergartners is served through the DPS lunch program or children can bring their own lunch. ADJUSTMENT TO SCHOOL Each child adjusts to his/her new routine in a different way. A child entering preschool for the first time is similar to an adult starting a new job. It is a time of anticipation, fear of the unknown, new beginnings, changes in sleep patterns, mild fatigue, and mostly positive stress. The experience can be somewhat overwhelming. Normally, children are comfortable with the environment in approximately thirty days of consistent attendance to school. You may see some of the following changes in your child: 1. Sleeping difficulties such as changes in nap schedules, wakefulness or very deep sleep, occasionally nightmares. Sometimes this may cause or increase bed wetting.

2. Irritability due to mild fatigue. 3. Acting out other children’s behaviors (not always positive ones). 4. Testing and redefining limits. Your children will begin to feel more autonomous and more

grown­up which will cause them to want more responsibility and control over their choices. Most of the above changes are only temporary and there is no need for concern. Suggestions to ease transitions:

1. Talk with your child prior to the transition about what their day will be like.

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2. Match your home schedule to the school schedule prior to the start date and maintain this on weekends.

3. Schedule an orientation to meet the child’s teacher and see the environment. The more at ease you are the less tense the child tends to be, they respond to your emotions.

4. Maintain a consistent routine for drop­off and pick­up, especially the first few weeks of school.

5. Ensure your child has plenty of rest prior to having school in the morning. 6. Sharing pictures of the environment at Monarch (classroom, teachers,

playground etc.) and discussing them with your child at home is always helpful in subduing nervousness.

If you would like to discuss this topic further, please talk to a teacher or administrator. WHAT TO BRING Label Personal Belongings First Steps wants to help children be responsible for their belongings. Parents should label a child’s belongings for easy identification. At this age, things become easily misplaced; reuniting your child with their “things” becomes much more likely when labeled. Each child will have a space to store personal items. A Lost and Found will be located at the front desk and donated monthly. Each classroom has a Dirty Clothes Bin on top of the cubby for soiled clothing. What to Bring/Not Bring If your child has a special “lovie”, comfort item, they are welcome to bring it and the teachers will encourage it to be kept in their cubby during class time. These "lovies" can help in making transitions easier but please note that they can cause emotions of possessiveness and anger if other children touch them, which is likely. Do not allow your child to bring expensive clothing, pets, money or propellant, electronic or weapon­like toys into school. The sun in Colorado is very intense and Monarch is active in protecting children from harmful UV rays. Staff applies SPF 70 sunscreen to all children 30 minutes prior to going outside. Parents are welcome to bring an alternative brand and indicate the preference on the Sunscreen Permission form. Supply List Monarch provides most of the items your child will need throughout the day. Parents are asked to bring the items below because they are specific to your child’s needs. There is an Annual Supply fee of $100 to replenish consumable materials throughout the year. Nido/Infants (6 weeks to 15 months)

Sheet and blanket for the child’s bed, standard crib size and taken home once a week to be washed.

Formula and/or breast­milk (marked with date and child’s full name) and a bottle for each feeding.

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A few extra sets of clothing Diapers, diaper cream and a box of wipes­ cloth diapers welcomed Over 6 months­ hat for sun protection Family photo Optional item­ pacifier, lotion and cuddle item for nap time Meals for children provided by parent. One month prior to child’s transition to the

Toddler Community Monarch will provide lunch. Toddlers (15 months­3 years old)

If enrolled full­day, a sheet and blanket for the child’s nap mat, standard crib size and taken home once a week to be washed.

At least three extra sets of clothing Inside shoes or slippers that the child can put on and take off independently Diapers and a box with wipes­ if child is potty training, plenty of underwear is needed Hat and/or sunglasses for sun protection Water bottle labeled with your child’s full name and taken home once a week for

washing Cuddle item for nap (optional) Diaper cream (optional) Do NOT bring sippy­cups, pacifiers and bottles for your toddler unless you have an

accommodation in place. Nutritious afternoon snack provide by the parent. This can be prepackaged or

homemade, as long as it is labeled with the child’s first and last name. Family photo

Primary (Preschoolers) and Kindergartners (3 to 6 years old)

If enrolled full­day, a sheet and blanket for the child’s nap/rest mat, standard crib size and taken home once a week to be washed.

A least two extra sets of clothing Inside shoes or slippers that can be put on or taken off by your child independently Family photo Hat and/or sunglasses for sun protection Water bottle labeled with your child’s name and taken home once a week for washing Do NOT bring your child pull­ups or diapers, unless previously arranged with

administration Clothing Each child must have a seasonally appropriate “emergency” change of clothes (underwear, socks, pants, shirt, shoes) which will be kept is his/her own cubby. Reminders will be published in the newsletter as the time comes to move from the warm weather set of back­up clothing to a cool weather set, and vice versa. Dress your child in comfortable clothing which he or she can easily fasten that is weather appropriate. Do not send your child in dressy clothes or clothes which hinder

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active participation. Provide clothing that is easily washable, because children will participate in art, cooking, water play and other activities that usually get dirty. Rubber soled sneakers or sandals (washable is even better) are an excellent choice of footwear. Make sure to label these with a permanent marker. Since the weather may change between the morning and afternoon recess, please dress your child in layers or keep a sweater in the cubby. See the attached Weather Guidelines for a temperature chart of degrees, corresponding length of outdoor play and required clothing. TRANSITIONS Transitioning a child to a new grade is an exciting milestone. Transitions occur when a child has mastered the skills expected in their grade and are ready to move to the next program. “Ready” is the key to this process. Transitions do not necessarily happen on a child’s birth date, instead our teacher’s observe the child to determine when they have met the developmental expectations of the program, within an age range. We take into consideration all faucets of development, cognitive, social, emotional and physical. If the parents and teachers see a child is delayed in a developmental area and it is most appropriate for the child to not transition them, a physician’s note can be provided to postpone the transition. Readiness Skills

­ Infants transitioning to Toddlers: children typically transition between 14 and 17 months. Readiness skills include one nap a day, able to eat independently, drinking from a cup, walking independently, able to self soothe when appropriate and have awakened to more complex cognitive works, weaned from a bottle and pacifiyer.

­ Toddlers transitioning to Preschool: children typically transition between 2.7 months to 3 years. Readiness skills include independently navigating the classroom, established concentration on tasks, can clean up after self, exhibit self­care skills (blowing nose, hand washing), are mastering toilet learning. These children are able to express needs and self­guide in a classroom of 19 peers.

­ Preschoolers transitioning to Kindergarten: Have established a foundation of skills and are self­motivated to seek knowledge. They are familiar with school routines and comfortable in a group setting. Children must be 5 years old by October 1 to enroll in their kindergarten year, testing is optional for children whose birthdays are past the cut­off date, to see if they are developmentally ready to enroll early.

Transition Process Often transitions are met with mixed emotions. They can lead the adult to feel nervous, apprehensive but also excited and curious. Our teachers and staff are very familiar with this process and sensitive to the emotions of the child as well as the parents. The most

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important piece is to time the transition appropriately. Second, it is important that parents feel prepared so that they can show a confidant demeanor to the child. Third is to be in tune with the child during this time, support them and give them time to acclimate. When the transition period arrives, the parent will receive a call or email from Monarch administration notifying you of an upcoming transition. To kick off the transition the administration will set up a meeting with the parent, the current teacher and the new teacher to collaborate about the unique development of the child. It is during this meeting that parents, teachers and administration will decide when the transition should begin. At that point, the child visits the new classroom for gradually longer period of time. This can be for a few days or two weeks depending on the child and how long it takes them to acclimate to the new environment. ATTENDANCE POLICY It is in the best interest of the child for parents to maintain a regular schedule of attendance. Children adjust more quickly the more time they spend in an environment, infrequent attendance can be stressful for a child, make drop­off more difficult and negatively impact the classroom environment and the child’s ability to progress in their learning. First Steps at Monarch does not view itself as a daycare environment but rather a social learning environment for children. Parents are strongly urged to make every effort to schedule appointments and vacations during scheduled school breaks, or after the work­cycle. Unique to Montessori, is the uninterrupted work period each day, 3 hours in preschool and 2 hours in toddlers. Tardiness interrupts the learning environment and distracts the other students in the class that have focused on an activity. In addition, it throws off your child’s routine, sometimes impacting their entire morning. Please avoid chronic tardiness and have preschoolers arrive no later than 8:15 am and toddlers arrive no later than 9:00 am. ABSENCE FOR VACATION­ Infant and Toddlers Only Families of infants and toddlers receive 2 vacation credits per year. The first credit is received after 6 months of enrollment, to be used within 6 months. The second credit is available the next 6 month period. Monarch must be notified in writing two weeks in advance of scheduled absences by filling out a Vacation Request Form, located at the front desk, and placing it in the tuition drop box. Please refer to the Tuition Agreement for specifics on the Vacation Credit policy. Families of preschoolers do not receive vacation credits because days­off are encouraged during scheduled breaks (spring break and summer) to minimally impact the child’s learning.

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ARRIVAL AND PICK­UP Sign­in and sign­out sheets are provided outside of each classroom and must be completed by parents daily. Staff is responsible for checking for completed information at the end of each day. Persons picking up must be at least 18 years or age or older and have written authorization to pick up a child. First Steps staff must require persons whom they do not recognize to show a picture ID before releasing the children. Monarch staff will not release children to individuals who are not authorized by the parent/guardian. Monarch staff will not release the child to anyone judged to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If someone seems to be under the influence, the authorities will be contacted in order to make a decision as to releasing the child. We ask your cooperation in insuring a smooth pick­up of your child when someone other than yourself will be picking up your child: Please: Authorizing people to pick up your child can be written on your enrollment page

or on the “One Day Pick­Up Authorization Form” located at the front desk. If it is another Monarch parent picking up your child it needs to be in writing on either form.

Prepare your child ahead of time, if possible, and let them know that someone else will be picking them up.

Have the authorized person be prepared to show a picture I.D. Be available to receive a phone call if we have any further questions.

Custody Orders In regards to child custody, separation or divorce, Monarch will allow both parents’ pick­up rights, tuition responsibility, access to student records and parent­teacher conferences unless court orders, on file at Monarch, specify otherwise. The Not Authorized to Pick­up section of the enrollment form will be honored against other persons requesting to pick­up your child. Staff are instructed not to intervene with child custody situations or legal proceedings, please contact an administrator with these requests. LATE PICK –UP FEES Monarch informs all parent/guardians at the time of enrollment that they are responsible for insuring that their child(ren) are picked up on time. However, emergencies can arise and parents/guardians should contact Monarch with the notice of tardiness. Late pick

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up fees are assessed in 15 minute increments, at a rate of $20 per increment per child. Late pick­up fees begin at 12:30 for half­day schedules, 3:30 for school­day schedules and 6:00 for aftercare. All efforts will be made to contact the parent and/or responsible persons listed on the EMERGENCY CONTACT SHEET. If the child has not been picked up 45 minutes past closing, the Police and/or the Family Crisis Center will be called to pick up the child. The Police/Family Crisis Center will be given the emergency contact information and will continue to try to reach someone to pick up the child. VISITOR POLICY

To provide for the safety and security of employees, children, visitors, and facilities, only authorized visitors are allowed in the building. Restricting unauthorized visitors helps ensure security, decreases insurance liability, protects confidential information, safeguards employee and child welfare, and avoids potential distractions and disturbances. Staff must be aware of persons who have entered the facility. Anyone who is not recognized will be questioned regarding the nature of his/her visit. All visitors must sign the visitors log and provide necessary information and identification upon entering the school.

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PARKING LOT MAP/DROP­OFF LANE

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The parking lot and front entry way is shared between two schools, First Steps at Monarch and Monarch Charter Elementary. Infant and Toddler parents can drop off and pick up at any time within the 10 hour daily time frame. To ease drop­off in primary, there is a drop­off lane available between 7:45 and 8:00 AM every day. Primary teachers are waiting at the front door to take kids out of the car, another teacher hands the sign­in clipboard to the parent and the child is walked directly back to the classroom; the parent never needs to get out of the car. See the attached Parking Map at the back of the handbook for driving instructions. Please be aware that Monarch Charter Elementary has drop­off lane between 8:10 and 8:30 AM every morning. In addition, Monarch Charter Elementary has a pick­up lane between 3:35 and 4:00 PM every day. These drop­off and pick­up times often congest the parking lot, and it is advised to avoid the lot between those times. First Steps at Monarch Montessori does not have an afternoon drop off lane, due to the wide variety of pick­up times. MEALS We want mealtimes to be a pleasant experience for the children. Freshly cooked and prepared meals will be provided by the school. Our menus are designed by a nutritionist. We ask that parents encourage their child to eat what is given as school and avoid bringing outside food, unless there is a dietary or medical need. Our staff is very conscientious of food allergies and sensitivities, and the best way to do this is to know exactly what food the children will be exposed to. We are a nut free school. Infants­ Nutrition is supplied by parent until one month prior to the child’s transition to the Toddler Community at 15 months. Toddlers – Breakfast, and lunch provided daily by Monarch Montessori. Parents bring afternoon snack for their child, labeled with their child’s name Primary Students­ Lunch and afternoon snack is provided daily. Breakfast is provided in before care, between 7 and 8 AM. Morning snack, available to children during the work­cycle is provided by parents. Parents rotate through a schedule to provide morning snack for the class of 20 students, each family will be responsible for snack one week per year. Please remember that all foods must be in the original packaging, no homemade foods and Monarch is a nut free environment. DISCIPLINE “We claim that an individual is disciplined when he is a master of himself and when he can, as a consequence, control himself when he must follow a rule of life." (Maria Montessori). At Monarch we believe that every child has the right to an education and that every child has the right to be safe. Our discipline policy is based on the principles of respect for each child and respect for the rights of all members of the classroom. Appropriate use

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of non­violent communication is expected and students are taught that there is zero tolerance for violence or bullying. A significant portion of the Monarch curricula involves the development of personal responsibility for actions and a respect for others as members of a common and shared environment. As children develop behaviors are displayed and it is the role of the adult to respectfully mold appropriate actions. The following ground rules positively remind children how their behavior should look and why:

Keep themselves safe Keep others safe Keep the environment safe

In keeping with the Montessori philosophy, our policy is to help children to arrive at inner discipline through concentrated work. Natural and/or logical consequences are used as a means of helping the child to develop inner limits and problem solving skills.

If a child is disruptive or endangers others, staff immediately intervene, in as positive a manner as possible.

If a child has trouble settling into the class on any day, the child is redirected to an activity by the teacher.

If the child is still unable to settle down, the teacher will intervene and may have the child remain in close proximity until the child is able to calm down.

When an incident occurs, the teacher or staff person involved will submit a summary of the incident on an Incident Report form.

If behavior becomes extreme, the teacher will schedule a meeting with the parents and, depending on the circumstances, with an administrator. Staff, parents, and child will work together to modify behavior.

If a pattern of disruptive behavior develops:

o Teachers will record behavioral observations and visually observe the child at all times until the behavior changes.

o The teacher will inform the student’s parents o Appropriate staff will be notified o The student, teacher, parents, and administrator will work together to modify

behavior and when appropriate additional professional help will be required

If an ongoing behavior problem occurs, such as hitting, kicking, or biting, parents will be notified, and we will work within reasonable limits to resolve the problem. If we are unable to solve the problem, the child may be asked to un­enroll for the safety of their classmates. We ask for parents to work cooperatively and closely with the teachers so that peaceful behavior becomes an expectation both at home and at school. HEALTH General Health Appraisal & Immunizations

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All children are to have a General Health Appraisal form signed by a physician prior to starting school. These must be updated at every well­child check­up at 2,4,6,9, 12, 18 and 24 months and every birthday thereafter. In addition, we must have a copy of your child’s immunization record, on file prior to enrollment and updated with every new immunization. If your child is not immunized for religious or medical reasons, please notify the administration. Monarch accepts children who have not been fully immunized, but if an outbreak occurs, the child will be excluded from attending during that period. Medication A Medication Administration Form, signed by a physician and parent, must accompany any medication (both prescription and non­prescription). Please give all medication directly to the Director, not to the teacher. The director will lock it in a cabinet unless it requires refrigeration or is an emergency medication. The medicine must be in its original container and have the pharmacy prescription label. The medication administration form, can be picked up from the reception desk or downloaded off the website. Only staff members authorized to administer medicine will do so. Allergies In order for our staff to better serve your child, it is imperative that parents inform staff of any allergies that the child may have or had, for example, food, medication, sunscreen or other substance. If your child has an allergy or a special diet, it must be documented by your child’s doctor. An Allergy Action Plan form, signed by the physician and parent, accompanied by appropriate medication must be on file. Illness Enrolling your child at First Steps at Monarch Montessori means you are entering them into a group learning environment. Illness, no matter the steps we take, will occur. All Monarch parents are encouraged to secure alternative child care options for when unexpected illnesses arise. We have set in place strict policies on when a child must be excluded from a group learning environment and when a child can return to the classroom. According to state licensing requirements and for the protection of all children, First Steps cannot accept children with any of the following symptoms:

Elevated temperature (fever of 100 degrees or higher) Two or more vomiting episodes within 24 hours Two or more episodes of diarrhea within 24 hours or diarrhea that cannot be

contained within garments Undiagnosed rash

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Discharging from eyes Diagnosis of a contagious disease, the child must be on medication for 24 hours,

or home until illness has cleared with verification of a doctor’s note In addition, Monarch staff may ask for a doctor’s examination of any symptom

mentioned or not mentioned above. If a child is too ill to participate in daily activities and require 1 on 1 attention, a

parent may be asked to pick them up. See attached Illness Policy at back of handbook for specifics on contagious diseases.

Please notify the teachers when your child is ill so that we can watch for a trend among other students or staff. It is required that we post communicable diseases on the parent board. The Monarch nurse or administration will notify the health department in the case of communicable diseases outbreak. Watch your child for signs of illness and DO NOT send him/her to school if he/she appears to be sick. It is not fair to the other children or the teachers to be needlessly exposed to coughs, runny noses or other symptoms.

If a child becomes sick during the day, he/she will be provided a comfortable place to rest until he/she goes home. Parents will be notified to come and pick up their child within the hour. Taking a Tylenol and returning the next day after a high fever is not acceptable, they must remain home until symptoms have cleared for 24 hours. Children cannot return to school on fever reducing medication. Parent cooperation and staff adhering to the illness policy is paramount to reducing the spread of illness. Sanitation and hand washing guidelines are carefully followed by staff to reduce germs. The Monarch nurse closely monitors medications, illnesses and procedures within the school. Please help yourself to hand sanitizer, located throughout the building, to limit introducing additional germs. BIRTHDAYS The Montessori curriculum celebrates birthdays as a history lesson and teaching the child about the passage of time. This abstract concept becomes more tangible and meaningful as the child carries a globe around the sun. Each year of a child’s life marks the measurement of one year, which is one full revolution of the earth around the sun. The teacher may ask you to participate on that day or provide a picture for each momentous year. You may want to display these pictures on a poster or bring them in for the child to build a timeline of their own life for their celebration. Consult your child’s teacher about the particulars of your child’s birthday. Parents may bring an icy pop( otter pop) only. Please refrain from bringing any alternative snacks to class to minimize complications from food allergies or additional sugars. Children with summer birthdays may schedule an "un­birthday" celebration (usually around their half birthday). Please discuss with the teachers in advance to plan this. If

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a birthday is to be celebrated away from the classroom and the entire class is not invited, please be considerate of the children's feelings and mail the invitation and thank you notes. If the entire class is invited, you may distribute the invitations at school. CUBBIES, EMAILS AND BULLETIN BOARDS The cubbies, emails and bulletin boards comprise our information delivery system. Each child has an assigned cubby where clothes, blankets and items may be stored. Most classrooms use a Folder or cubby in which you may find creations your artist made in class for the fridge, in addition to notes from the teacher or administrator. Please check your child’s cubby frequently. Emails are a favorite form of communicating for our school, please read the newsletters carefully and update us when your email changes. If this is not the best way to communicate with you, please let us know so we can arrange an alternative method. COMMUNICATION Open communication between parents, teachers and administration is valued at Monarch. In the Infant and Toddler programs daily notes are recorded for parents about the day at Monarch; how much food was eaten, bowel movements, temperament, sleep and interactions. Weekly every parent receives a classroom newsletter emailed from their child’s teacher. Newsletters will include upcoming events, birthdays, transitioning students, pictures of activities, notes about the curriculum and any other reminders. Notes from the Administration are emailed monthly, with news about upcoming information sessions, events, school activities, improvements and reflections. Parents are encouraged to sign up for Remind101 to receive text message notifications about school events, emergencies and closures. Each parent needs to sign up by texting the code that corresponds with your child’s grade to 720­627­6769. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Infant parents text @fsmmd Toddler parents text @fsmm Primary (preschool) parents text @fee72

Parents will also be able access menu information and general announcements for First Steps and Charter through a new phone app that will be rolled out the last week of August. Parents will be asked to fill out a survey each year. Your input is helpful for us to use in improving our program. We encourage asking questions and giving praise on a regular basis, as well as offering suggestions since we are here to meet the needs of our community. MRX MRX is a progress monitoring program that allows teachers to quickly and easily document student capacities across a broad range of developmental categories. Monarch hopes to use this program to better align instruction when students transition between teachers and as a way to enhance effective teaching strategies.

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PARENT INVOLVEMENT Parent involvement is always welcomed. There are opportunities to volunteer in the classroom, and at events. Stay tuned to the classroom and administrator emails for opportunities. Each classroom typically has a Room Parent, organized by the PTO, to better connect the parents and school. We do have numerous family events scheduled throughout the year. We hope that your family will take the opportunity to visit with the staff at that time. We even have a very active Parent­ Teacher Organization that meets every month at school. Join in the fun, and learn about what is happening on campus at the same time! PTO@monarchm.com School Board Meetings will be posted in the front lobby 24 hours in advance. They are always open to the parents. If you wish to speak at the Board Meeting you must contact them in writing, five days in advance of a regularly scheduled meeting. Board@monarchm.com PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES Monarch wishes to maintain excellent communication between home and school, as we believe that it enhances a student’s needs being met. Conferences are important times for parents and teachers to touch base about the progress of students and to establish goals for the following term. Parent/teacher conference days are listed on the school calendar. Teachers are available to meet with parents at times other than regularly schedule conferences. Please contact the teacher to arrange a day and time. Parents are kindly requested to respect the need for our teachers to be focused on students when conducting a class. CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS Monarch stresses the importance of protecting the rights and privacy of children, their families and our teachers. The practice of maintaining the confidentiality of verbal information and written records is a basic policy of our school. This practice is in accord with one of the primary ethical principles of professional behavior in early childhood setting. Legal parents and guardians have the right to view any and all records, files and data directly related to their children. Parents/guardians who desire to review these records are requested to contact an administrator to schedule an appointment. RESOLVING PARENT CONCERNS When parents have concerns, they are expected to speak directly with the teacher most directly involved with the concern. Constructive feedback is welcomed and teachers will make an effort to address the concern in a manner that works for both the parent and the school. The school expects that its staff will handle concerns and comments with professionalism. It is also requested that complaints will not be vented to office staff, other parents, or anyone else not directly involved with the matter. If you are not satisfied with the resolution after meeting with the teacher, or would like a second opinion, please contact an administrator.

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SCHOOL CALENDAR Please keep our school calendar handy and refer to it often for a listing of special events, holidays, and closures held throughout the year. There are opportunities for parent education; Parent University Night and Transition Meetings. Events, such as Breakfast with Mom, Breakfast with Dad and Grandparents Tea are planned for parents and family members to see the children at work and play. Other events, such as International Food Festival, Art Exhibition and Trunk­or­Treat give the Monarch community opportunities to socialize and celebrate. Staff Development days are critical for continuing education, review of policies/procedures and organization/sanitation of the classrooms.

HOLIDAYS, CLOSURES AND BREAKS Please refer to the school calendar for holidays, closures and breaks. Typically on holidays and professional development days childcare is not provided. During primary Spring break limited care is available at an additional cost, for parents that sign­up. Standard monthly tuition is due for all months no matter closures or holidays. SEVERE WEATHER CLOSURES The decision to close Monarch because of inclement weather will be made by the administration. Every effort will be made to reach a decision by 5:30 AM. Most school closings will be aired on Channels 4, 7 and 9 News, Remind 101 text message (see Communication section of this handbook for details of Remind 101) and posted on our Facebook page. These decisions are made based on the ability of staff and parent to safely drive.

If the weather becomes severe during the day and the administration may decide to close school earlier than the normal posted time (6 pm). In this situation staff will remain with students until all children have left the building. Parents will be expected to follow the closings on Channel 4,7 and 9 News, Monarch website or Facebook page.

Tornado warnings: In the event of a tornado warning, all students will remain in designated areas throughout the building and will not be released until an official “all clear” signal has been received by the school. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join us in the buildings for protection, but will not be permitted to leave until the weather emergency has cleared. Relocation off campus: Certain emergencies may require an evacuation of the campus. In this situation all students will be moved to a nearby building and parents will be called to pick­up students.

ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Teachers are First Aid, Universal Precautions and CPR certified. We will call you or your emergency contact person to notify of an accident or injury. When there is no

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question that your child must be taken to the doctor or the hospital, we will call you to inform you of our course of action as soon as possible. It is vital that you keep our staff updated on changes in your phone number at home, at work and cell phones. Emergency In case of a fire, all children will evacuate to the lawn outside the building and remain there until the fire department has completed an inspection of the building and determined that it is safe to return to the building. Fire drills are practiced regularly. In case of a tornado warning, children will take cover in designated areas throughout the building. Tornado drills are practiced regularly. Lockdowns If we are notified of a dangerous situation in our area, the school will go into lockdown. During this time our students will be expected to remain in their classrooms, quiet and out of sight. No one will be allowed to enter the building. Lockdown drills are practiced throughout the year. Lost Child Every effort is made to keep all children safe. In the event that a child is missing, a search will be started immediately. If necessary, the parents and the authorities will be called to assist in the search. Parents, please make sure to close the classroom door behind you upon entering and leaving the classroom and assist us in educating your child of the importance of staying with the teachers. Report of Child Abuse Monarch is a licensed childcare facility. All staff has a legal and moral obligation to report suspected abuse or neglect. If you, as a parent, feel there is a suspicion of abuse occurring, please seek assistance by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at (720) 944­3000. If you have a concern about the Early Childhood Program not following Childcare Regulations, you can seek assistance by calling the Division of Child Care at (303­866­5958).

TUITION PAYMENTS

Payment Policies

There is a non­refundable registration fee of $100 per child/$150.00 per family. There is an annual supply fee of $100 per child that begins in September or your

first month of enrollment. Payment must be made in the form of a check or money order and must be

made payable to First Steps at Monarch Montessori. Payment is due by 6:00 p.m. on the day payment is due (monthly – 1st of the

month, semi­monthly – 15th of the month.) If your child does not attend on the day payment is due, then you should make your payment on the business day prior to the due date to avoid late fees.

Late payment fee of $25.00 will apply if balance is not paid within 3 days of due date and 10% each day thereafter.

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Late payment will result in suspension of child care until unpaid balance is paid. Accounts past due for more than 90 days will be referred to a collection agency

and you will be responsible for any collection costs incurred, including legal fees. A returned check fee of $40.00 will be assessed to every returned check. After

two returned checks, payments must be made by cash only. It is $10 to replace or purchase a third swipe card (two swipe cards per family are

given at time of enrollment). Late and Illness Pick­up

Late pick up fees are assessed in 15 minute increments, at a rate of $20 per increment per child. Late pick­up fees begin at 12:30 for half­day schedules, 3:30 for school­day schedules and 6:00 for aftercare. All efforts will be made to contact the parent and/or responsible persons as listed on the EMERGENCY CONTACT SHEET. If the child has not been picked up by 45 minutes past closing, the Police and or the family crisis center will be called to pick up the child.

In case of illness the child must be picked up within the hour. All families must have back­up care if a child needs to be excluded from group­care. Tuition credit will not be given for days missed due to illness.

Contract Changes The parent/guardian is responsible for informing an administrator in writing of any

contract changes. Schedule changes must be submitted two weeks prior in writing to the effective

date for administrator approval and to affect the tuition rate. Changes in address, telephone numbers, and/or employment must be submitted

in writing immediately. Schedule availability is contingent on enrollment and classroom ratios. A $25 fee

will be applied to a reduction in days. Withdrawal

A 30 day notice is required in writing when terminating care with First Steps at Monarch Montessori of Denver. If your child is withdrawn without notice, you are responsible for 30 days of tuition. Please remember to return your swipe cards to the front desk on your last day.

Vacation Credit First Steps at Monarch Montessori offers a vacation credit for infants and toddlers effective 6 months after enrollment, and reoccurs every 6 months. Your credit is equal to the number of days your child attends per week. For example, children enrolled full­time receive 5 days of credit every 6 months; children attending 2 days per week accrue 2 days every 6 months. First Steps at Monarch Montessori of Denver must be notified in writing two weeks prior to vacation by filling out a vacation request form.

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Accounts will never have more than 5 days of credit. Vacation credit cannot be applied to the withdrawal period or redeemed as a credit upon withdrawal. Drop­ins Monarch is flexible when possible to accommodate last minute changes in parent schedules. Families can arrange for a full day drop­in, add afternoon care, or before care by filling out a Drop­in Form, located at the front desk. Please note that drop­ins are allowed only if ratios in the classroom do not exceed regulations. An administrator will notify you if this is the case. Additional charges for drop­ins apply. School Closures Holiday and possible snow day closures are factored into the monthly rates. Therefore, credit will NOT be given for Holiday or snow day closures. First Steps at Monarch Montessori of Denver will be closed for the following days: (refer to the school calendar for specific dates) Winter Break, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Spring Break, Memorial Day Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Holiday, Staff Development Days and a modified schedule on Parent Teacher Conference days.

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Weather Guidelines Weather Hotline: 303­337­2500

Or use the Weather Channel App for zip code 80239 Children do not go outside if the temperature is below 25 degrees or there is any kind of precipitation falling from the sky. (Wind chill is under the same guidelines) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 20 minutes if the temperature is between 25­31 degrees. (With jackets, hats, gloves, and boots) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 25­30 minutes if the temperature is between 25­30 degrees. (With jackets, hats, gloves, and boots) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 30 minutes if the temperature is between 40­45 degrees. (With jackets, hats, gloves, and boots) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 30­60 minutes if the temperature is between 45­60 degrees. (With jackets) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 30­60 minutes if the temperature is between 60­65 degrees. (With jackets or long sleeves) Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 30­60 minutes if the temperature is between 65­90 degrees. Children can go outside if there is no precipitation­ for 15 minutes if the temperature is between 90­97 degrees. Children do not go outside if the temperature is 98 degrees or higher.

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WHEN TO KEEP YOUR CHILD AT HOME There are three reasons to keep sick children at home:

1. The child does not feel well enough to participate comfortably in usual activities, (such as; extreme signs of tiredness, unexplained irritability or persistent crying).

2. The child requires more care than program staff is able to provide, without effecting the health and safety of the other children.

3. The illness is on the list of symptoms or illness for which exclusion is recommended.

Children with the following symptoms or illness should be kept (excluded) from school: Symptoms Child Must Be at Home?

Diarrhea Frequent, loose or watery stool compared to child’s normal pattern; not caused by diet or medication

Yes – if child looks or acts ill; if child has diarrhea with fever and behavior change; if child has diarrhea with vomiting; if child has diarrhea that is not contained in the diaper or the toilet.

Fever with behavior changes or illness Note: An unexplained temperature of 100°F or above is significant in infants 4 months of age or younger and requires immediate medical attention

Yes – when fever is accompanied by behavior changes or other symptoms of illness, such as rash, sore throat, vomiting, etc.

Flu Symptoms Fever over 100°F with a cough or sore throat. Other flu symptoms can include fatigue, body aches, vomiting and diarrhea.

Yes – for at least 24 hours after there is no longer a fever, without the use of fever­reducing medicine

Coughing severe, uncontrolled coughing or wheezing, rapid or difficulty breathing Note: Children with asthma may be cared for in school with a written health care plan and authorization for medication/treatment

Yes – medical attention is necessary

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Mild Respiratory or Cold Symptoms Stuffy nose with clear drainage, sneezing, mild cough

No – May attend if able to participate in school activities

Rash with fever Note: body rash without fever or behavior changes usually does not require exclusion from school, seek medical advice.

Yes – seek medical advice. Any rash that spreads quickly, has open, weeping wounds and/or is not healing should be evaluated.

Vomiting Two or more episodes of vomiting in the past 24 hours

Yes – Until vomiting resolves or a health care provider decides it is not contagious. Observe for other signs of illness and for dehydration

Aurora, CO 303.281.2790 Revised 2009

Illness Child Must Be at Home?

Chicken Pox

Yes – Until blisters have dried and crusted(usually 6 days) If blister occurs after vaccination, refer to Health Dept Guidelines.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) or Pink color of eye and thick yellow/green discharge

Yes – Until 24 hours after treatment If your health provider decides not to treat your child, a note is needed.

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Croup (See Coughing) Note: May not need to be excluded unless child is not well enough to participate in usual activities.

Seek medical advice

Fifth’s Disease No – Child is no longer contagious once rash appears.

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease (Coxsackie Virus)

No – May attend if able to participate in usual activities, unless the child has mouth sores and is drooling.

Head lice or Scabies May return after treatment starts

Hepatitis A

Yes – Until 1 week after onset of illness or jaundice and when able to participate in usual activities.

Herpes Yes – If area is oozing and cannot be covered, such as mouth sores.

Impetigo Yes – for 24 hours after treatment starts

Ringworm May return after treatment starts Keep area covered for the first 48 hours of treatment

Roseola Note: A child with rash and no fever may return to school

Yes – Seek medical advice

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) Note: A child does not always need to be excluded unless he/she is not well enough to participate in usual activities

Seek medical advice. Once a child in the group has been infected, spread of illness is rapid.

Strep Throat Yes – for 24 hours after treatment and the child is able to participate in usual activities

Vaccine Preventable Diseases Measles, Mumps, Rubella (German Measles), Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Yes – Until determined not infectious by the health care provider

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Yeast Infections Including thrush or Candida diaper rash

No – may attend if able to participate in school activities. Follow good hand washing and hygiene practices.

References

American Academy of Pediatrics, American Public Health Association, National Resource Center for Health and Safety in Child Care, Caring for our Children: National Health and Performance Standards, Second Edition, Elk Grove Village, IL 2002

American Academy of Pediatrics, Managing Infectious Diseases in Child Care and Schools, Elk Grove Village, IL 2005

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, Communicable Disease Epidemiology Program, Infectious Disease in Child care Settings: Guidelines for Child Care Providers, Denver, CO., December 2002

http://www.cdc.gov/ Aurora, CO 303.281.2790 Revised 2009

I have received and will read the Monarch Montessori 2014­15 Parent Handbook in its entirety. I agree to follow all the guidelines stated within this handbook. _____________________________________ Student Name _____________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature __________________ Date

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July 2014