The Parent Handbook, made easy to use.

On behalf of the staff, children and parents of The Winter Park School, we welcome you and look forward to working with you and your child, sharing in his or her growth and development. Our policy is very clear to all associated with our school: we strive for nothing but the very best.

The early years in your child's life are extremely important, with many changes taking place in a very short space of time. Your child will learn to communicate and make great physical strides while at the same time becoming intellectually aware and more inquisitive about their natural surroundings.

At The Winter Park School we have all the necessary ingredients — teachers, educational curriculum and consistent high-quality care — to make a difference in your child's development. Our mission is to transform communities using maker-centered learning, STEAM learning and design thinking as a platform for change, empowering young learners to become the fearless problem solvers of tomorrow.

As a parent you will have great opportunity to participate in school events and activities, and you are encouraged to build relationships with the Head of School, the Assistant Head of School, the Owner, our teachers and other parents. The Head of School and Owner operate an open-door policy. Always feel free to approach us with any questions, concerns or ideas — we are always ready to listen.

An understanding of our policies and procedures helps eliminate potential problems for teachers and parents, and eases the transition of children from home to school during their early years. Thank you for choosing The Winter Park School.

Sincerely,
The Winter Park School Leadership Team

To become a school of quality and prestige requires determination and effort by everyone associated with it: attention to detail, an educational curriculum, warmth and understanding, qualified professional teachers, and most importantly the support of parents.

We offer services for children ages 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Our aim is to continually improve the quality of our school and our service to parents, children and the community. The school is open Monday through Friday, except holidays, from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Program objectives

• Create a safe environment that promotes independent world learners, develops self-confidence and an inquiry mindset, and builds character through the values of caring, honesty, respect, empathy and responsibility.
• Discover each child's learning style and intelligence, and build on their strengths to individualize the learning experience.
• Create an environment where teachers, administrators and parents support a child's learning experience.
• Support families in their parenting role — celebrating milestones and offering workshops and training on child development and other topics of interest.
• Ensure that the home cultures of children's families are included in the program.
• Prepare children for formal schooling and promote lifelong learning through a curriculum that supports independence, 21st-century skills and excitement about STEAM subjects.

Once a child is admitted we must receive all of the following forms:

• Enrollment form and emergency contact information
• Medication to use / ointments authorization (for children 0 to 3)
• “Know Your Child Care Facility” information brochure by DCF
• Brochures on the influenza virus and the distracted driver
• Consent to screen your child
• Severe allergy information, completed and signed
• Policy handbook agreement, completed and signed
• Childcare contract, completed and signed

Please inform the administration if your child has a special requirement such as a dietary concern or medical condition. Enrollment is granted without regard to a child's race, color, creed, religion, national origin, disability or sexual orientation, and without regard to a parent or guardian's race, color, creed, religion, age, national origin, gender, pregnancy or disability.

Child records

Records are required by law for all children attending school. Please bring your child's records before or on the first day of attendance. The file is confidential and accessible only by teachers and staff with authorization. Records include medical records and emergency contacts, which must be kept up to date — please advise the Head of School should any information change.

Within The Winter Park School, confidential and sensitive information is shared only with employees who have a “need to know” in order to most appropriately and safely care for your child. Confidential information about faculty, other parents or other children will not be shared with parents. Confidential information includes, but is not limited to, names, addresses, phone numbers, disability information, and health-related information of anyone associated with the school.

Outside of the school, confidential information about a child is shared only when the parent has given express written consent, except where otherwise permitted by law. Parents will be provided with a document detailing the information to be shared, the persons with whom it will be shared, and the reasons for sharing it. Any parent who violates the confidentiality policy will not be permitted on school property thereafter.

All staff members, substitutes and school volunteers undergo a background check before starting work at The Winter Park School. Our staff are CPR and First Aid certified, hold strong credentials, and complete in-service training to update their knowledge and teaching methods.

Class starts promptly at 9:00 am, so parents should notify the school as soon as possible when a child will not be attending. There is no drop-off between 9:00 and 9:30 am, as this disrupts circle time. Teachers wait until all children have arrived before starting activities, so advance notification is appreciated.

If your child is sick, please notify the Head of School of the illness and its cause so staff can be aware of anything that may occur at school.

A keypad is located outside the building doors. Enter your code — please do not share it — to get into the front lobby, where front-desk personnel monitor those checking in and out. After signing your children in, you may enter through the door code into the school.

Children should be escorted to their classroom and passed to the teacher in attendance. Should the teacher be absent and you have questions or information, please see the front desk. Parental involvement with the teacher should be kept to a minimum during morning drop-off; this helps your child adjust quickly to the morning routine. All classes start by 9:00 am.

The safety of children is of paramount importance, and we maintain a strict policy regarding the individuals to whom we will release a child. Enrollment forms require a parent to specify at least two adults to whom their child may be released, on a regular and an emergency basis. Passcodes for the computer and entry to the school are given to each person eligible to collect a child.

Advance written notice or telephone confirmation with proof of ID is required for anyone other than specified persons. The Head of School must be notified with the name, address, phone number and brief description of the person picking up the child, and that person must show positive identification on arrival before the child is released. Should any unauthorized person become uncooperative with the school's policies regarding the release of a child, the local police will be contacted.

Employees are not permitted to release a child to any individual who arrives at the school and appears intoxicated or impaired; the police will be called if anyone thought to be intoxicated or impaired tries to take a child from the school. Individuals under the age of eighteen are not permitted to pick up a child. You may be asked to provide identification if you are not known to your child's teacher.

Parent access

Parents of children in the school are welcome and permitted free access at any time during opening hours without prior notice.

Where a family court or other legal entity has established visitation or custodial rights, a copy of the order must be provided to the school. Court orders are strictly adhered to unless the custodial parent requests a more liberal variation in writing. In cases of parental separation or divorce, both parents must be in agreement and sign a consent form when adding an additional person for child pick-up.

Your child's daily schedule is on display in the classroom and is adhered to at all times; no deviation is allowed without permission from the Head of School.

Rest time

Children in certain classrooms have a rest time during the day. This is a quiet period and some children sleep at this time: the lights are dimmed and quiet music is played. Children who do not sleep are given the opportunity to select quiet activities such as books or puzzles while their classmates rest. We make every effort to meet each child's individual rest needs, though those needs may vary with activity and sleep patterns the night before. VPK students do not have rest time during the school year.

Toys from home

Toys are not allowed from home. It is very difficult for children to share their favorite possessions, and all toys and equipment in the school must be shared. Many toys break easily into small parts, which are inappropriate for our setting. There will occasionally be “show and tell” days at the request of the teacher; no items or toys pertaining to violence or to any religious belief are allowed, and only items appropriate for a preschool audience will be permitted.

Toilet training

Toilet training is a skill children acquire around 2 years of age, and we do everything we can to assist. It is important that parents give encouragement and continue practicing at home. Children will not move into a three-year-old classroom until they are independent in going to the bathroom, meaning wiping and dressing on their own.

Uniform & dress code

Children attending classrooms for toddlers and up must wear the correct uniform, purchased through the school.

• Boys: polo with khaki, blue or black shorts or pants.
• Girls: T-shirt or polo with khaki, blue or black shorts or pants.

Closed shoes or sneakers are required of everyone. For safety reasons, no open-toe shoes or sandals are allowed. All students carry a school backpack and water bottle. Uniform orders are placed through the front office — please allow three to four weeks for delivery to the school. Rush orders are not available.

Student supplies

Students should arrive in clean clothing and bring any items needed in a backpack. All items are sent home at the end of the week for proper washing, including nap-time items and changes of clothing. Cubbies and bins are sanitized each Friday.

By placing your child in our school you give us an obligation to provide the highest quality education and care. Television is not used as an educational tool; we focus on teacher-led instruction and student inquiry. Computers are located in the Innovation Lab and in the three- and four-year-old classrooms and are used as part of the learning process.

Pets on premises

Pets in a childcare program must be carefully chosen with regard to care and health risks. As part of our accreditation and enrichment process, we welcome living things into our school family such as plants and classroom fish.

Families receive, by email, a transitioning plan for each age group that moves to the next classroom or age group.

While infants need sufficient tummy time while they are awake, they must always be placed on their backs to sleep. This includes infants who are able to turn onto their stomachs on their own. All infants are placed on their backs in their crib; if an infant turns over onto their stomach while sleeping, they are left alone and not turned back over.

Occasionally parents request that their child sleep in a different position, as they may sleep in another position at home. Even though we like to accommodate parents, we are unable to follow such a request unless a physician's note is provided stating that it is medically necessary for the child.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is the unexpected, sudden death of a child under age 1 for which a cause of death cannot be identified. It is not known what causes SIDS; however, several sleeping practices have been linked to an increased risk. We therefore maintain a strict policy for infant sleep placement.

All infants less than one year old are placed on their back to sleep. Once a child has been placed in the crib for nap, if the infant rolls from back to front — and is also able to roll from front to back — it is acceptable to leave the infant sleeping on his or her stomach. Blankets and pillows are never allowed in a crib. A request for an alternative sleeping position is authorized only by the Head of School with a signed and dated physician's note stating the reason for the request.

We believe infants should be fed on demand. If you have another feeding schedule in mind, we will discuss it so that your infant's needs are adequately met. We follow parents' schedules to the best of our ability.

Breastfeeding, formula & bottles

Parents must label breast milk and formula brought from home, and must bring enough bottles for each day plus one. Infant classrooms have refrigeration for bottles. Breast milk is handled as a bloodborne pathogen and gloves are worn while handling it. Labels must include the child's first and last name, the date, and the type of milk. Mothers who are breastfeeding their children in the infant or toddler room may continue to breastfeed in the designated area.

Pacifiers

Pacifiers are reserved solely for nap-time purposes as needed in the infant and toddler rooms. Sippy cups and pacifiers may not be used in the two-year-old rooms. Please label your child's pacifier with their first initial and last name.

Nutritious meals are provided during the day: a morning snack, lunch and an afternoon snack. Meals include a variety of foods, and full menus can be found each week on the school notice board. The menu rotates on a four-week basis and may change from time to time to accommodate the seasons and children with special dietary requirements. All meal schedules are posted inside each classroom within the classroom schedule.

If your child has allergies and requires a modified diet, we must be notified in writing, and we will need a physician's written instructions describing any foods the child is not permitted to eat. An appropriate substitution will be made if possible. If a child has so many allergies that he or she cannot eat from our menu, we may require parents to provide lunch and snacks. We never force a child to finish what is on the plate, but we do encourage each child to try one or two bites of everything — sometimes they are surprised by what they like. All eating patterns are communicated to parents.

Meals brought from home with a doctor's note must align with the USDA food program and must include a protein, a vegetable, a fruit, and a milk or milk alternative. Chips, cookies, pudding, candy and sugary drinks are not allowed.

Breakfast is not provided. Please remember that no food is allowed inside classrooms after 8:00 am.

We take great care in maintaining food safety and managing food allergens. Parents provide information on any food allergies, and this information is posted in the classroom for the teacher and in the kitchen for the cook so that these safety measures are maintained.

Staff members, parent helpers and volunteers wash their hands at many points during the day, including at the beginning of the school day, before and after meals, and after using the bathroom. Children are required to wash their hands when entering a classroom at drop-off. Please help us by directing children to wash their hands as they enter their classrooms.

Disinfection

Disinfection is the process used to eliminate virtually all germs from inanimate surfaces through the use of chemicals or physical agents such as heat from running water. We use an effective disinfectant for environmental surfaces on a daily basis. Furniture and toys are washed and disinfected by the teacher and assistant teacher every day, and once a week we complete a deep cleaning procedure. Garbage is disposed of in the middle of each day after lunch and collected again at the end of the day. Our Zono sanitizing machine is used daily and routinely throughout the week.

The health of our children and staff is very important. By monitoring each child's health status, teachers are able to maintain a safe environment for the entire class. Children who are ill cannot participate fully in the activities of the classroom and should not attend. We understand that it may be very difficult to make alternate arrangements for an ill child and regret such inconvenience; however, keeping a child home when they are showing symptoms of illness is essential to maintaining the health of an entire class.

Symptoms that exclude participation include, but are not limited to: vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sore throat, fever, discharge from the eyes or nose, rashes and itching. Should a child become ill during the day, a parent is notified and the child is given the opportunity to rest or play quietly in a separate area until an authorized person arrives.

Exclusion for illness is also a state-mandated requirement under Rule 65C-22.004, F.A.C., and DCF health requirements.

We administer medication only if certain criteria are met. Staff members will not dispense prescription or nonprescription medication to a child without written authorization from the child's parent or physician. Medication forms are available at the front desk and must be completed by parents.

Out-of-date medicine, or instructions that conflict with the information on medication labels, will result in no medication being given. Siblings may not share any medicine, including diaper creams. All medicines are stored in a locked refrigerator or cabinet, inaccessible to children, and medication is given only by designated staff trained in administering it.

Should a child become injured at school, the parent is notified via an accident report form, and incident and accident reports are also updated in the parent communication app. The parent is asked to sign the form indicating that he or she has been notified, and a copy is kept in school records. If the injury is of a serious nature, a parent receives a phone call at the time the incident occurs. In the event of an emergency, the child is transported via ambulance to the nearest hospital accompanied by a member of staff. It is extremely important that emergency contact information is kept up to date.

Medical emergencies

Minor bumps and scratches are inevitable, but we make every effort to keep children safe through supervision and childproofing. Minor injuries receive appropriate first aid, and if an emergency injury or illness occurs you will be contacted as soon as possible. If necessary, your child will be taken to the nearest hospital, where you will be asked to meet us. If you are not going to be at your usual place of employment or at home, please make sure we have a number where you can be reached.

Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation if required. The owners and directors are not held liable for any sickness or injury of a parent, guardian or child while on the premises.

If a teacher sees a child with lice or an unusual rash, the child is brought to the front office for a check by management. If management believes there is a problem, the parent is called to pick up the child, and the child may not return until the infestation is gone. If a rash is present, a doctor's note is needed stating that the child is not contagious. If a child has head lice or a contagious rash, all children in the class are checked, the room is stripped, washed down and sanitized, and parents are informed the same day.

Keeping healthy

We take every precaution to help your child stay healthy. Consistent hand washing and cleaning of the school are performed many times during the day, and students wash their hands additional times. This may cause a child's hands to become drier than normal; we ask that you use lotion on their hands nightly.

We also need your help: it is the responsibility of parents to be open and honest with staff about any illness the child or a family member may be experiencing. During a public-health emergency, we will care only for the students allowed in accordance with state, federal and local government guidance.

Our staff are required to treat every person as though they may carry a bloodborne pathogen, regardless of any known medical condition, and to follow universal precautions at all times. Personal protective equipment — gloves in a variety of sizes and CPR guards — is available throughout the building, and employees carry a first-aid bag when traveling outside the classroom. Staff complete annual bloodborne pathogen and universal precautions training, and any exposure incident is reported to the Head of School and documented the same day.

Child abuse and neglect

School personnel are alert to the physical and behavioral indications of child abuse and neglect. It is the responsibility of every childcare employee to report suspected physical abuse, emotional abuse, sexual abuse or neglect to the Florida abuse hotline. Staff are required by law to report suspected or disclosed abuse; staff do not determine whether abuse has occurred. Staff are not permitted to contact the parent unless specifically directed to do so by the Department of Children and Families or Child Protective Services. Reporting procedures are designed to protect the child.

Our teachers use age-appropriate behavior guidelines that encourage self-control, self-direction, responsibility and cooperation. Positive discipline teaches children what they should do — for example, “Let's walk inside the building” rather than “No running.” At no time will a child be subjected to physical punishment or humiliation, or be frightened or verbally abused by any member of staff. Any violation of the school's disciplinary policy should be brought to the attention of the Head of School or Owner immediately.

Staff members walk over to children, bend down to the child's eye level, listen to the child's words and observe the child's actions. For non-verbal children, observation and awareness are the keys to resolving conflict. For verbal children, we ask all parties to use their words and empower them to advocate for themselves by modeling conflict resolution — for example: “I don't like that you took the toy from my hand. Please don't do that again. We can play together.”

Occasionally a child may display behavior that is not appropriate for his or her age, such as biting, spitting, hitting or bad language. Great effort is made to improve the behavior: a teacher works with the child within the classroom environment and, if necessary, documents the behavior. In consultation with the Head of School and Owner, a plan of action is devised to resolve the issue. Specialists at the Early Learning Coalition may also be used, with parental consent, to assist in behavior remediation. It is a last resort to dis-enroll a child due to behavior; however, if remediation does not achieve positive results, the school reserves that right.

The following procedures are followed to protect the entire class:

1. First offense: the parent is notified, the child is picked up for the remainder of the day and suspended for the following day.
2. Second offense: the parent is notified, the child is picked up for the remainder of the day and suspended for the following day. Further action is at the Head of School's discretion after meeting with the parent.
3. Third offense: the child is dismissed from the program.

Persistent inappropriate behavior is aggressive behavior that continues after progressive discipline steps have been used; behavior that threatens the health and safety of other children or staff; or a continuous inability to conform to the rules and guidelines of our program. Behaviors that threaten others will not be tolerated, and the school reserves the right to disenroll any child, without prior notification, whose behavior creates a significant risk of harm to the health and safety of other children or staff.

1. Teachers observe and record the child's inappropriate behavior and document what has been done to correct it.
2. If the behavior continues, parents are asked to participate in an immediate conference, and together we create a behavior modification plan. The Head of School may suggest outside resources and will work with any outside resource for further guidance.
3. The Head of School monitors and documents progress in relation to the behavior modification plan.
4. If there is no progress, or if the review determines that alternative care would best meet the needs of the child or of the other children, disenrollment will occur.

We recognize that biting can be a normal part of development, especially among toddlers and two-year-olds who are still learning to express their emotions and needs. However, excessive or repeated biting can become a serious safety concern.

• All biting incidents are documented and communicated to the families of both the child who bit and the child who was bitten.
• Staff observe and track behavior patterns — environment, time of day, triggers — and implement developmentally appropriate interventions such as redirection, shadowing and increased staff support.
• If a child bites three or more times within a five-day period, or if any bite results in broken skin, a parent conference is scheduled to discuss concerns and collaborate on an intervention plan. If a child bites three times in one day, they are sent home for the remainder of the day.
• If the behavior continues despite interventions, the school may require the child to take a temporary break from the program, and a formal behavior support plan may be required prior to return. A referral to a developmental or behavioral specialist may be recommended.
• As a final step, after all supportive strategies have been attempted, the school reserves the right to permanently withdraw a child if biting behavior cannot be safely managed. Children up to age 3 will have a specialist observe the child's environment and development before withdrawal.

Biting among three- and four-year-olds is not considered typical behavior and is addressed with increased seriousness. At this stage children are expected to begin using words and self-regulation strategies to express their needs and emotions.

• Any biting incident is immediately addressed with appropriate first aid and emotional support for the child who was bitten. The child who bit is redirected and guided to use appropriate ways to express feelings. Incident reports are completed and shared with the families of both children.
• For a first-time or occasional incident, staff assess the situation to determine potential triggers and begin proactive measures such as increased supervision, environmental adjustments or social-emotional skill building. Families are informed and asked to support these efforts at home.
• After repeated incidents, a parent meeting is scheduled to work collaboratively on a behavior support plan. If a child bites twice in one day, the child may be sent home for the remainder of the day. After a third incident — regardless of time frame — the child is sent home for the remainder of the day and suspended for the following day.
• If biting continues despite interventions, or if the behavior is aggressive or harmful, the school may require temporary removal from the program until a formal behavioral consultation is completed. A written behavior intervention plan must be in place before the child returns.
• If all interventions have been exhausted and the behavior continues to endanger others, the school reserves the right to permanently disenroll the child.

In the VPK classroom, where children are four to five years old, biting is not developmentally appropriate and will not be tolerated under any circumstances. Children at this age are expected to use words and self-regulation strategies to manage frustration, anger and social conflict.

1. First incident: the child is immediately removed from the classroom and the family is contacted for prompt pick-up. A formal incident report is completed and shared with the families of both children, and a parent conference is scheduled before the child may return, at which a written behavior plan is developed.
2. Second incident: the child is again removed from the classroom and sent home for the remainder of the day, then suspended for a minimum of one full day. The behavior plan is reviewed and updated with the parents.
3. Third incident: regardless of time frame, the child may be permanently dismissed from the VPK program, in the best interest of classroom safety and the emotional security of all students.

It is the policy of The Winter Park School that all of its students, employees and school volunteers have an educational setting that is safe, secure and free from harassment and bullying of any kind. We will not tolerate bullying or harassment of any type, and conduct that constitutes bullying or harassment is prohibited. Any behavior that meets the definition of bullying or harassment should be reported to the school, and policy protocol will be followed.

Bullying means systematically and chronically inflicting physical hurt or psychological distress on one or more students, employees or volunteers, including unwanted and repeated written, verbal or physical behavior and threats. This includes any threatening, insulting or dehumanizing gesture that is severe or pervasive enough to create an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational environment; cause discomfort or humiliation; or unreasonably interfere with an individual's performance or participation. Harassment means any threatening, insulting or dehumanizing gesture, use of data or computer software, or written, verbal or physical conduct directed against a student, employee or volunteer.

Bullying and harassment include cyberstalking, which means engaging in a course of conduct to communicate words, images or language by or through electronic mail or electronic communication, directed at a specific person, causing substantial emotional distress and serving no legitimate purpose, as defined by Florida Statute 784.048(1)(d). Cases of cyberstalking are reported to law enforcement. We require that students, employees and volunteers conduct themselves appropriately for their respective level of development and maturity, with proper regard for the rights and welfare of others.

To lessen the effects of bullying, the school applies a holistic approach that involves every member of the school community — administration, faculty, staff, bus drivers, parents and especially students — in creating an atmosphere free from worry and conducive to academic success.

Inappropriate language

Swearing, taunting or bullying language, and speaking disrespectfully to others (students and adults) are handled as follows:

1. First offense in a day: the student stands with a teacher or sits by himself or herself, and the teacher and student discuss what was inappropriate. Written documentation required.
2. Second offense in a day: the student is sent to the office for an appropriate amount of time based on his or her age. Written documentation required.
3. Third offense in a day: the student is excused from school. Written documentation required.

Intentional destruction of materials or possessions of others

1. First offense in a day: the student stands with a teacher or sits alone to complete work, and the teacher and student discuss what was inappropriate. The student's family is responsible for funding the replacement of destroyed classroom materials. Written documentation required.
2. Second offense in a day: the student is excused from school. Written documentation required.

If a maximum number of offenses is reached for two consecutive school days for any of the aggressive behaviors outlined above, the student is excused from school until a meeting can be held between the lead teacher, the parents and the executive director, at which a behavioral action plan is presented and discussed.

A teacher may request that a child be brought to the main office due to continual disruption. The Head of School or Assistant Head of School assists the child in calming down and helps staff manage the classroom.

If behavior becomes a consistent disruption, the Head of School will look into the situation and may set up a conference with parents and the teacher to discuss the situation and develop the best course of action — which could include a schedule change, a classroom change, additional training or an action plan. It is at the Head of School's discretion to disenroll a child if parents disagree with the course of action. If a child becomes out of control and dangerous to self or others, the teacher calls the front office immediately and a member of the administrative team promptly comes to assist.

There is an annual registration fee to hold your child's spot. VPK-only children require no registration fee. A spot cannot be reserved until registration is paid in full in advance of enrollment. Enrollment is open to any child between the ages of 6 weeks and 12 years without discrimination as to sex, race, color, religion or political belief.

Automatic ACH withdrawal through Tuition Express is required for payment; no cash or checks are accepted at any time. Credit card payment is available at an additional cost of 3.5%. After a third returned ACH, you will be required to pay by money order every Friday for the following week. Consistent lateness is cause for dis-enrollment, and non-payment of tuition is grounds for immediate dismissal from the program.

If you anticipate difficulty paying on time, please discuss the matter with the Head of School immediately. If alternative payment arrangements are approved, you will be notified by the Head of School.

Full tuition is payable and due for school closings, a child's illness, family vacations, scheduled school days, inclement weather, acts of God and closures due to emergency conditions. No credit or allowance is given in these circumstances. Additional fees may apply for field trips and additional events, and will be clearly stated in a timely manner. The school does not provide refunds for tuition or uniforms.

Parents should notify the Head of School and teacher whenever taking a vacation or holiday. One free week of vacation or holiday is available after one year of full-time enrollment completed in school. This must be requested by parents and cannot be carried over to the following year (maximum one free week per year). In the event the holiday is for a longer period, tuition must be paid as normal to reserve a child's place.

Vacation & school-age scheduling

After one year of continuous attendance, full-time children only are eligible for one free week of vacation. Subsequent vacations are earned annually on the child's anniversary date, and notification must be given to the front desk one week prior to using the vacation time. Vacation must be approved and cannot be carried over to the following year.

The school-age year runs from the first day of county school until the last day of county school. Tuition is paid weekly during this time, with adjustments for school holidays, and there are no free vacation weeks. During the summer break, tuition is based on services used — please select your designated weeks. Parents of school-age children are responsible for tuition from August through May and may take June and July off without penalty.

Additional days

Due to class scheduling and staff-to-child ratio requirements, switching scheduled days is not allowed unless a specific arrangement has been made with the Head of School or Owner. Additional days may be added at the Head of School's discretion and may not always be available. Please notify the Head of School as far in advance as possible if more days are required.

Following their last day of enrollment, the parents and child are not permitted to re-enter school property.

If the staff does not feel that the school is meeting the child's needs, we reserve the right to terminate the care arrangement on a timeline that is in the child's best interest, after several conferences with both the teacher and the parent. Other reasons that may result in termination include abusive or verbally threatening means of disciplining children while at the school, or the use of any other than non-threatening means of discipline on the premises. Dismissal will never be based on race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or any other protected category.

The school offers limited scholarship opportunities if a staff member or family qualifies. The scholarship rate is based on household income and family size. For questions about scholarships or financial assistance, please contact the front office.

Referral program

We value our parents and their support, and show our appreciation to families who refer their friends and family. You will receive one week free of tuition when a referred family enrolls and completes their first four weeks of attendance.

Holidays & closures

The school is closed on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day following Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day; the school closes early on New Year's Eve. Tuition for the complete calendar week is still due. If a holiday falls on a weekend, it may be observed on the next school day. Parents should notify the Head of School and teacher whenever taking a vacation or holiday; in the event a holiday extends for longer periods, tuition must be paid as normal to reserve a child's place.

Daily reports are written electronically by teachers each day for every child in their classroom, through an app called Procare Engage. Reports give an overview of the activities in which your child participated, along with information on meals, sleep and toileting, and teachers add comments on your child's progress. Reports are emailed daily and updated in the app, which parents can download. When you see teachers interacting with computers, tablets or phones in the classroom, they are documenting the activity of children.

Parent conferences

At least twice each year, or more often by request, a formal parent–teacher conference is scheduled to summarize each child's progress in detail. A written development report summarizes the teacher's evaluation. Conferences may be held virtually, by phone or face to face, as parents request.

Monthly newsletters are published with important information and events throughout the year, and we ask that parents read them each month. Newsletters, menus and parent connection letters are emailed to parents who provide an email address, and copies can be obtained from the front reception desk. Parents wishing to include information about their child's achievements outside of school should contact the Head of School for inclusion in the newsletter.

Information boards are located at the entrance to each classroom with lesson plans, class schedules and attendance information, as well as upcoming school and community events. A parent notice board in the reception area carries weekly menus, activities and other information; parents may use this board to display business cards and other information of interest to other parents.

Parents are encouraged to take an active role in their child's education. Learning takes place not only at school but also at home and in the community, and we encourage parents to extend and reinforce learning opportunities at home. We host numerous events throughout the year and monthly meetings to support your child's learning starting at 3 years old. At the end of every month, classrooms share their project work and STEAM learning findings with parents and the rest of the school family.

Ways to be involved include:

• Lending objects for units of study
• Coming in to talk about your job, when asked
• Helping your child at home with the concepts we are studying (see the monthly newsletter)
• Joining our Parent Advisory Board
• Helping your child prepare for “show and tell”
• Helping to provide treats or other items for our parties

Our Parent Advisory Board includes parents whose children are enrolled in the school, along with teachers and administrators, and meets every quarter. Parents serve as a voice and as program ambassadors for other families. For more information, please contact the front office.

Cameras are located in all classrooms. If you have access to the internet, you can watch your child in their classroom at no cost to you; information is available at the reception desk. Parents have access to live video only — there are no playbacks. Please be advised that if you take a screenshot you will be locked out of the live feed.

Social media

We use social media — including Facebook, Instagram, X, Pinterest and TikTok — for advertising purposes. If you do not wish your child to participate, please opt out of photos in your registration packet.

We are committed to providing the best care possible, and part of that commitment is encouraging an open and honest atmosphere in which any problem, complaint, suggestion or question receives a timely response. Managers, employees and parents are expected to treat each other with mutual respect, and all individuals on school premises are expected to conduct themselves respectfully, especially in the presence of children. Inappropriate conduct from staff members, parents or administration will not be tolerated and could be grounds for termination.

If parents encounter a problem or disagree with established rules of conduct for children, policies or practices, they may express their concern through the following steps:

1. The parent presents the problem to the Head of School after the incident occurs. If the Head of School is unavailable, the parent talks with the Assistant Head of School.
2. The Head of School responds during the discussion or after consulting the appropriate classroom teacher, and documents the discussion.
3. If the problem is unresolved to the parent's satisfaction, the parent presents it to the Owner or Partner.
4. The Owner or Partner reviews the matter with the Head of School and informs the parent of the intended solution. The Owner has full authority to make any adjustments deemed appropriate to resolve the problem.

Not every problem can be resolved to everyone's total satisfaction, but only through understanding and discussion can employees, management and parents develop confidence in each other. Parents who violate this policy will not be permitted on the property. Dismissal of a parent will never be based on race, color, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, marital status or any other protected category.

Misconduct

Parents or other adults authorized to drop off or pick up children who disrespect or threaten staff members, use inappropriate language or act in an aggressive manner will be dismissed from the program. We reserve the right to suspend or terminate services to a family in the event that a member of that family is disrespectful, uses inappropriate language or threatens staff members or participants in the program. Authorities will be notified in case of any abduction threats. No refunds will be given.

Custody issues

In cases of separated or divorced parents where visitation rights are denied to one parent, we cannot deny releasing the child to that parent unless a court decree or separation document in our file expressly forbids that parent from picking the child up, or from pick-up at times not allowed by the decree. The court decree must be specific as to the rights of visitation and must specify in writing that visitation is permitted by the non-custodial parent; otherwise visitation will not be permitted. Please call the Head of School if you have specific custody issues we need to be aware of.

There is immediate access to telephones in every classroom. Fire drills are a legal requirement and are conducted once per month, unannounced, per DCF guidelines — they may occur at any time of day, including meal time and nap time. The results of drills are displayed above the fire alarm system in reception and are inspected at each visit from the authorities. Exit signs and emergency instructions for fire and severe weather are located in each room, clearly indicating which routes are to be taken by staff and children. First aid kits are located in every classroom and at reception. A notice is posted on the classroom door and in Procare to notify parents when a fire drill has taken place.

Staff count and supervise children at all times and are accountable for those counts. Electrical sockets are protected with covers, all chemicals are locked away from children and labeled, and playground safety rules are followed. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times; at no time is a child allowed to go to or leave their classroom unattended. The school prohibits drugs, smoking, vaping and firearms on the grounds.

Access policy

Any person in the school who is not an owner or staff member does not have access to any child for whom that person is not the parent, guardian or custodian, and is not counted in the staff-to-child ratio. Such persons are only allowed in classrooms under the direct supervision and monitoring of a paid staff member at all times. Staff approach anyone on the property without their knowledge to ask their purpose, and if unsure, contact the Head of School or Assistant Head of School immediately. If the person on property is not authorized to be there, the Head of School contacts local authorities and communicates to staff that the school is on lockdown.

At times, emergencies such as severe weather or power failure can disrupt the school, and in extreme cases this may require closing. Should there be no telephone communication, a sign will be posted on the front doors of the school with instructions for parents.

For severe weather, the school closes in accordance with the county school system and reopens at the discretion of the owners; it is the parent's responsibility to call the school for reopening information. There are no discounts for days off. Emergency plans have been developed and are posted in each classroom for parent review. Should the building require immediate evacuation, staff ratios are maintained and children are moved to their designated safe zones. Each staff member carries class records and emergency contact information for all children, and parents are contacted by telephone immediately after roll call.

Lockdown

Lockdown procedures are used in situations that may result in harm to persons inside the facility, such as a shooter in the area, a trespasser on the premises, a disturbance, or any type of threat within a two-mile radius at the discretion of management. Management notifies all staff that the school is on lockdown; children are kept in classrooms, bathrooms or storage rooms; blinds are pulled down and windows covered; all outside doors are locked; and staff and children remain in the classroom with doors locked and lights off, engaging in quiet story activities until an all-clear is given.

Evacuation & bomb threat

In an evacuation, the receptionist calls 911, and each classroom follows the evacuation route posted in the room, taking the emergency bag, gate key and a cell phone. Once outside, teachers take roll, recount the children and confirm with the assistant teacher that all children are accounted for, then wait for further instructions. If the premises must be evacuated further, staff are notified by cell phone or PA system to proceed to the safe place assigned to our facility. Infants are taken by crib to the safe area; all others walk, and transportation is used as needed. The Head of School places an evacuation sign on the door, takes the emergency supply crate, and — with the owner and receptionist — begins calling parents from the master list. Emergency communication is by cell phone, with numbers carried in the emergency bag.

In the event of a bomb threat, staff and children immediately evacuate the building to the nearest parking lot. If within one hour the fire department determines the school is safe to enter, we return to school; if it is still unsafe after one hour, or if the weather does not permit being outside, parents are called to pick up their children. Staff may call parents at any time to pick up their child if the ability to maintain the child's safety is in question.

Intruder

If there is an intruder or dangerous person in the front office, staff members in the immediate area position themselves between the children and the intruder, one staff member attempts to move the person to the hallway and close the classroom door, and a second staff member calls the Head of School or Assistant Head of School to assist. If the intruder passes the front office, all staff are notified of the threat, and all staff and children return to their classrooms or safe areas and sit on the floor away from doors and windows until an all-clear is given. The Head of School or Assistant Head of School instructs the intruder to leave the premises and maintains visual contact until the police arrive or the individual leaves. If it is unclear whether 911 has been called, any staff member calls 911 immediately.

Emergency hospitalization or treatment

For children who require immediate medical attention, the Head of School calls emergency services to respond, then calls parents or emergency contacts to inform them of the situation; if the Head of School is unavailable, another staff member contacts the parent. It is important that parents complete and update, as needed, an Emergency Contact and Parental Consent Form. If a child becomes ill or injured after arriving, the Head of School attempts to contact the parents at all available telephone numbers; if a parent cannot be reached, the individuals listed as emergency contacts are called. Children who are ill or seriously injured remain under the supervision of the Head of School or Assistant Head of School until a parent arrives.

Lost or missing child

In the event that a child becomes lost or missing, the Head of School and all available staff conduct a full search of the building and surrounding perimeter, and if necessary the Head of School contacts the police. Parents of that child are immediately notified to come directly to the school or other specified location. If a child goes missing during a field trip, the staff member contacts the field trip coordinator on site and the Head of School immediately, and remains with the other children until further instructions are received.

Unauthorized or incapacitated person

We will not release any child to a person who is not authorized to pick up by the child's parent. Staff notify the child's parents and release the child only if it is verified and authorized by the parent. We will not release any child to any person we feel may be incapacitated in any way that could result in harm to a child; parents or police will be notified of our decision, and the child must be picked up immediately. If parents cannot be reached, emergency contacts are called. We document all activity involving a person who is suspected of child abuse and attempts to pick up a child, and we deny the ability to pick up a child if we have a court order or documentation stating that the person cannot be around children. If we are unable to locate an authorized person, we will not hesitate to call the police to locate the parents or to take custody of the child.

The school transports students to and from local elementary schools and to and from field trips. No child is transported unless a transportation agreement has been signed by the child's parent; agreements may be obtained from the front desk. Field trip permission forms must also be signed for children to participate in field trips, and may be obtained from the front desk or from your child's teacher.

Children, along with parents, sign a bus rules document. Children who do not adhere to bus rules will be unable to ride the bus, and parents will have to find alternate transportation. Parents must get their children to school on time to be transported in the morning; failure to be on time will result in your child being unable to ride the bus.

When parking, parents are asked to use the existing spaces at the front of the school. For safety reasons, and to allow easy entry and exit for all families, please leave the area in front of the school doors unobstructed. If you have other children with you who do not attend the school, it is against the law in Florida to leave them alone inside the vehicle, and all children must be in a secured car seat.

Anti-idling

Idling vehicles contribute to air pollution and emit air toxins, which are pollutants known or suspected to cause cancer or other serious health effects. Monitoring at schools has shown elevated levels of benzene, formaldehyde, acetaldehyde and other air toxics during the afternoon hour coinciding with parents picking up their children. Children's lungs are still developing, and exposure to elevated levels of these pollutants increases their risk of developing asthma, respiratory problems and other adverse health effects. Limiting a vehicle's idling time can dramatically reduce these pollutants and children's exposure to them.

• ‘No Idle Zone’ signs are posted in the drop-off and pick-up areas.
• When waiting for students to be picked up, all engines should be shut off.
• Drivers should turn off engines on arrival and whenever they expect to be parked for more than 10 seconds.
• If idling is necessary for temperature control, please restrict it to no more than 5 minutes.
• The school discourages idling vehicles in parking areas, except where vehicles need to idle in extreme heat or cold to maintain interior or engine temperatures.

Never leave a child in a vehicle

Florida law requires child care facilities to provide parents, during April and September each year, with information regarding the potential for distracted adults to fail to drop off a child and instead leave them in the vehicle. A change in daily routine, lack of sleep, stress, fatigue, cell phone use and simple distractions are some of the things parents experience that contribute to children being left unknowingly in vehicles.

• Never leave your child alone in a car, and call 911 if you see any child locked in a car.
• Make a habit of checking the front and back seat of the car before you walk away.
• Be especially mindful during hectic or busy times, schedule or route changes, and periods of emotional stress.
• Create reminders by putting something in the back seat that you will need at work, school or home.
• Keep a stuffed animal in the baby's car seat and place it on the front seat as a reminder when the baby is in the back.
• Set a calendar reminder on your device to make sure you dropped your child off at child care.
• Always notify us in advance if your child is going to be late or absent, and ask us to contact you if your child has not arrived as scheduled.

Smoking policy

The Winter Park School is a smoke-free school. For the benefit of parents, teachers and children, please keep our air clean by complying with this policy in school buildings and on school grounds. There is no smoking or vaping allowed on the property. The school does not apply sunscreen or bug spray. During the course of the school year, animals may be brought in for in-house field trips.

In accordance with Florida Statute 1002.421(1)(j)

At The Winter Park School we welcome and value all students and families. As a private school participating in a state scholarship program such as Step Up For Students, we are required by Florida law to notify parents that:

This means that students with disabilities enrolled under a scholarship program are not entitled to the same special education services they might receive in a public school setting. However, we are committed to supporting the needs of all our students through differentiated instruction, personalized learning approaches, collaboration with families, and accommodations that can reasonably be provided within our program.

While we are not bound by IDEA in the same way public schools are, we strive to create an inclusive and nurturing learning environment, provide clear communication with families, and support students to thrive academically, socially and emotionally within the scope of our school's resources. If you have questions about how we can support your child's individual learning needs, please contact the school office.

1. In accordance with section 1002.421(1)(p), F.S., the school provides Level 2 background screenings through the FDLE VECHS program, or screenings determined eligible by the Agency for Health Care Administration, for each owner, operator and chief administrative officer.
2. In accordance with section 1002.421(1)(m), F.S., the same Level 2 background screening is required for all employees and contracted personnel with direct student contact.
3. Proof of qualifications is maintained for all instructional personnel in accordance with section 1002.421(1)(h), F.S.: a bachelor's degree or higher in any subject; three or more years of K–12 teaching experience; or special skills, knowledge or expertise that qualify them to provide instruction in K–12 subjects.
4. Pursuant to section 1002.421(1)(j), F.S., information for parents regarding the school — including programs, services, the qualifications of classroom teachers and the IDEA statement above — is published on the school's website or provided in written format.

Adapted from the Code of Ethics of the Education Profession in Florida and the Principles of Professional Conduct for the Education Profession in Florida

Our school values the worth and dignity of every person, the pursuit of truth, devotion to excellence, the acquisition of knowledge, and the nurture of democratic citizenship. Essential to the achievement of these standards are the freedom to learn and to teach and the guarantee of equal opportunity for all. Our primary concern is the student and the development of the student's potential; employees therefore strive for professional growth and seek to exercise the best professional judgment and integrity.

Concern for the student requires that our instructional personnel:

• Shall make reasonable effort to protect the student from conditions harmful to learning or to the student's mental or physical health and safety.
• Shall not unreasonably restrain a student from independent action in pursuit of learning, nor unreasonably deny a student access to diverse points of view.
• Shall not intentionally suppress or distort subject matter relevant to a student's academic program.
• Shall not intentionally expose a student to unnecessary embarrassment or disparagement, nor intentionally violate or deny a student's legal rights.
• Shall not harass or discriminate against any student on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, age, national or ethnic origin, political beliefs, marital status, handicapping condition, sexual orientation, or social and family background, and shall make reasonable effort to assure that each student is protected from harassment or discrimination.
• Shall not exploit a relationship with a student for personal gain or advantage.
• Shall keep in confidence personally identifiable information obtained in the course of professional service, unless disclosure serves professional purposes or is required by law.

Aware of the importance of maintaining the respect and confidence of colleagues, students, parents and the community, employees must display the highest degree of ethical conduct: maintaining honesty in all professional dealings; not denying a colleague professional benefits or participation on the basis of any protected characteristic; not interfering with a colleague's exercise of political or civil rights; not engaging in harassment or discriminatory conduct that unreasonably interferes with an individual's work responsibilities or creates a hostile, intimidating, abusive or offensive environment; and not making malicious or intentionally false statements about a colleague. All instructional personnel, educational support employees and administrators are required, as a condition of employment, to complete training on these standards of ethical conduct.

All instructional personnel, educational support employees and school administrators have an obligation to report misconduct by staff or administrators that affects the health, safety or welfare of a student. Examples of misconduct include obscene language, drug and alcohol use, disparaging comments, prejudice or bigotry, sexual innuendo, cheating or testing violations, physical aggression, and accepting or offering favors.

Reports of misconduct by staff or by administrators should be made to the Vice President of Operations and Compliance. Legally sufficient allegations of misconduct by Florida certified educators are reported to the Office of Professional Practices Services. Policies and procedures for reporting misconduct are posted on the front office board as part of the discipline policy and on our website.

Reporting child abuse, abandonment or neglect

• Signs of physical abuse: unexplained bruises, welts, cuts or other injuries; broken bones; or burns. A child experiencing physical abuse may seem withdrawn or depressed, seem afraid to go home or run away, shy away from physical contact, be aggressive, or wear inappropriate clothing to hide injuries.
• Signs of sexual abuse: torn, stained or bloody underwear; trouble walking or sitting; pain or itching in the genital area; or a sexually transmitted disease. A child may have unusual knowledge of sex or act seductively, fear a particular person, seem withdrawn or depressed, gain or lose weight suddenly, shy away from physical contact, or run away from home.
• Signs of neglect: unattended medical needs, little or no supervision at home, poor hygiene, or appearing underweight. A child experiencing neglect may be frequently tired or hungry, steal food, or appear overly needy for adult attention.
• Patterns of abuse: serious abuse usually involves a combination of factors. While a single sign may not be significant, a pattern of physical or behavioral signs is a serious indicator and should be reported.

Any person, official or institution participating in good faith in any act authorized or required by law, or reporting in good faith any instance of child abuse, abandonment or neglect to the department or any law enforcement agency, is immune from any civil or criminal liability that might otherwise result (F.S. 39.203).

Please complete, sign and return the following pages to the front office. Signatures confirm that you have received and reviewed each policy and have had the opportunity to ask questions.

1. Parents will complete a registration form every year to update all contact information and register for the following school year. The registration fee is non-refundable.
2. An annual registration fee is due for each new school year. Tuition may be raised annually.
3. Parents agree to pay each Friday for the weekly tuition fee of the following week.
4. Parents agree to pay the weekly tuition even if the child is absent for one or more days during the calendar week, and agree to pay a late pick-up fee where applicable.
5. A late fee of $35 is assessed if tuition is not paid by the end of business on Tuesday.
6. The school is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm. The school is closed on New Year's Day, Memorial Day, the 4th of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the day following Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and closes early on New Year's Eve; tuition for the complete calendar week is still due. If a holiday falls on the weekend, it may be observed on the next school day.
7. For your convenience, you can enroll in our electronic funds transfer authorization from a bank account. Our payment processing system allows secure, on-time tuition and fee payments from your bank account. Check with the school for accepted credit card types; there is an additional 3.5% fee to use credit cards.
8. As a service to parents, the school has installed a camera system that allows parents and other family members who have passwords to view their children in their classrooms, free of charge. Cameras can be accessed in live video only; there is no playback for families.
9. Enrichment programs are offered at no additional cost to parents.
10. In case of withdrawal of my child, parents will give the school written notice two weeks prior to withdrawal.
11. The Winter Park School, its owners, directors, employees and associated companies are not responsible for reimbursement of any medical expenses incurred as a result of accidental incidents to a child, or incidents between children resulting in injuries that occur to a child or children.

I, ______________________, the parent of ______________________, have read the above enrollment agreement.

I/We, the parent(s) or legal guardian(s), acknowledge that we have access to The Winter Park School parent handbook. We have been given the opportunity to read it, to ask questions about it and to understand the policies contained therein, and we agree to abide by the policies set forth in it.

We understand that the policies described in the Parent Handbook are not conditions of enrollment and that the language does not create a contract between The Winter Park School and the parents. The school reserves the right to alter, amend or otherwise modify these guidelines in its sole discretion, without prior notice. We acknowledge that this Parent Handbook is the property of The Winter Park School and that this information is not to be shared with non-enrolled parents.

Section 65C-22.006(2), F.A.C., requires a current physical examination (Form 3040) and immunization record (Form 680 or 681) within 30 days of enrollment; The Winter Park School requires these medical records within 7 days of enrollment. Section 402.3125(5), F.S., requires that parents receive a copy of the Child Care Facility Brochure, “Know Your Child Care Facility.” Section 65C-22.006(3)(c)2., F.A.C., requires that parents be notified in writing of disciplinary practices used by the facility. DCF also requires the distracted driver form to be signed twice a year, in January and October, and the influenza form to be signed once a year in August or September.

1. I agree to pay the full weekly tuition fee even if my child is absent for one or more days during the calendar week.
2. I agree to pay a per-child late pick-up fee for each period of time after the school's closing.
3. I agree to pay a returned payment fee for returned checks or refused ACH transactions.
4. I understand that two weeks' written notice is required when withdrawing a child for any reason, and that if the required notice is not given I will be charged tuition for two additional weeks.

If your child receives a pink slip for a fever of 100.1° or higher, diarrhea three times, vomiting, conjunctivitis (pink eye) or another excludable symptom, he or she must be picked up within 45 minutes of your being called. In an effort to keep all children healthy, your child may not return to school until the day after tomorrow unless you have a doctor's note stating otherwise. This is also a state-mandated requirement (65C-22.004) and a DCF health requirement. For pink eye, your child must be on medication for 24 hours before returning, unless you have a doctor's note stating that the child is not contagious.

I have read, had the opportunity to ask questions, and understand the above policy.

• The Winter Park School does not apply sunscreen and/or bug spray.
• The Winter Park School is a smoke-free environment; there is no smoking or vaping allowed on property.
• During the course of the school year, there may be animals brought in for in-house field trips.

I understand the above school policies.

Each year, students have opportunities to be photographed or recorded on field trips, in classroom activities and during in-house field trips. Sometimes these photographs, videos or digital images are placed in publications or on websites, or used for marketing and advertising purposes for The Winter Park School. I hereby authorize The Winter Park School to publish photographs, video and digital imagery taken of myself and/or the minor child or children listed below, and our names and likenesses, for use in the school's print, online and video-based marketing materials and other publications.

I release and hold harmless The Winter Park School from any reasonable expectation of privacy or confidentiality for myself and for the minor children listed below associated with the images specified above. I attest that I am the parent or legal guardian of the children listed below and that I have full authority to consent to this use. I acknowledge that participation is voluntary, that no financial compensation of any type is associated with the taking or publication of these photographs, and that publication confers no rights of ownership or royalties whatsoever.

In the event of a severe emergency, evacuation away from the school building may require children to be transported to safety. If this happens, parents will be called to pick up their children at our designated evacuation site within 45 minutes. If possible, older children will walk to the evacuation location with their teachers.

I give my permission for my child ______________________ to be transported by bus or car to the school's designated evacuation site in case of an extreme emergency.

Assessment permission

Throughout the school year, children are assessed to track their development. These assessments are conducted by school staff or by outside professionals such as the Early Learning Coalition of the county in which the school resides, and are discussed with you during parent–teacher conferences or as needed. In order to assess the children, we need parent permission.

I hereby give permission for my child to be assessed and/or observed during the school year.

Chapter 65C-22, Florida Administrative Code, Child Care Standards

Parents or legal guardians must be advised in advance of each food-related activity, such as special occasions and learning activities that include food consumption. Written parental permission may be obtained in the form of a general or special permission slip, and documentation of permission must be maintained for a minimum of four months from the date of each activity.

I give permission for my child, ______________________, to participate in food-related activities that take place at The Winter Park School, including the events below.

Birthday celebrations are fruit or vegetable snacks.

I have received the following information and have been given the opportunity to ask questions during my initial visitation and orientation at The Winter Park School:

• Tour of the facility, virtually or in person, and introduction to teaching staff
• Parent visit with the classroom teacher, virtually or face to face
• Overview of the parent handbook on our website
• Discussion of the expectations of the family and the needs of the child
• Overview of available family support resources and activities
• Interpreter available if needed (Spanish)
• Opportunity for an extended visit in the classroom by both parent and child, to allow both to become comfortable in the new surroundings

Confirmation of policies

I have received and read the Parent Handbook of The Winter Park School, understand its contents, and have had the opportunity to ask questions.