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PARENT HANDBOOK

BrightPath Active Learning, 401 East Schrock Rd, Westerville, OH 43081www.BrightPathActiveLearning.com 614-839-0780

Welcome to BrightPath Active Learning! This parent handbook provides important information concerning the policies and procedures of our program. Please read this handbook carefully and use it as a reference throughout the year.

MISSION STATEMENT We will engage all students in challenging and meaningful activities using the environment, nature and physical activity as a forum for learning. We will enrich a child’s kindergarten experience resulting in high levels of learning and a stronger foundation for success in their continued education.

PHILOSOPHY At BrightPath Active Learning we approach learning through a natural setting, where children are outdoors, exploring nature and at the same time actively learning about literacy, math, science and themselves. BrightPath is not a nature school focused solely on science and nature, but rather uses nature as a forum for instruction. We have found that children have an inherent fascination with nature and the world around them. At BrightPath we capture their natural curiosity and harness it for learning.

BrightPath Active Learning is designed to complement and enrich a traditional kindergarten classroom program. We provide a balance between the two environments allowing for more learning opportunities for the child. By removing the typical classroom boundaries and constraints, nature and the environment around us provide an outstanding forum to broaden a child’s learning experiences — personally, socially, physically and academically. To be successful and to thrive in our ever-changing world, we believe that a child’s education is enriched with different learning environments. Our model provides an enrichment option that allows children to engage in different ways in different educational settings.

Our teachers are our most valuable resource. BrightPath’s skilled teachers turn the interest, curiosity and youthful energy of children into an exciting educational environment. Children can apply their own creativity, thoughts and interests to their experiences in nature and our talented teachers use these as learning opportunities and lessons for the children.

*Due to the nature of our program each child must be able to handle themselves with a certain level of maturity. They will be expected to immediately follow the directions of all adults on staff and any parents working with BPAL on a temporary basis (i.e. a field trip) They must also work safely with peers. This is for each child’s safety and security and will allow BPAL to fully access the learning possibilities in an alternative environment. If a child is unable to follow these requirements they may be asked to leave the program.

GOALS We want to surround the children with an environment that will:

Enhance their physical health Develop their social skills Build their character Maintain a child’s positive self image and personal maturity Establish appropriate modes of behavior in social situations Promote social responsibility in the environment Enhance and extend their kindergarten experience

CENTER PARENT INFORMATION REQUIRED BY OHIO ADMINISTRATIVE CODE PH_2011_BPUpdated 08.02.11

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The facility is licensed to operate legally by the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. The license is posted in a conspicuous place for review.

A toll free may be used to report a suspected violation of the licensing law or administrative rules (866-886-3537, Option 4). The licensing laws and rules governing child care are available for review at the facility upon request.

The administrator and each employee of the facility is required, under Section 2151.421 of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC), to report their suspicions of child abuse or child neglect to the local public children’s services agency at 614-229-7000.

Any parent, custodian, or guardian of a child enrolled in the facility shall be permitted unlimited access to the facility during all hours of operation for the purpose of contacting their children, evaluating the care provided by the facility or evaluating the premises. Upon entering the premises, the parent, or guardian shall notify the administrator of his/her presence.

Rosters of the names and telephone numbers of the parents or guardians of the children attending the facility are available upon request. The parent rosters will not include the name or telephone number of any parent who requests that his/her name or telephone number not be included.

The licensing inspection reports and complaint investigation reports, for the current licensing period, are posted in a conspicuous place in the facility for review.

The licensing record including compliance report forms, complaint investigation reports, and evaluation forms from the building and fire departments are available for review upon request from the Ohio Department of Jobs and Family Services. The Bureau of Child Care and Development’s website is http://jfs.ohio.gov/cdc/chidlcare.stm.

NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT It is unlawful for the facility to discriminate in the enrollment of children upon the basis of race, color, religion, sex or national origin, or disability in violation of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, 104 Stat. 32,42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.

ADMISSIONS A child is considered enrolled at our center only after the initial deposit of 1 month’s tuition (specific to each child’s schedule) has been paid, confirmation of the availability of space, and the required paperwork is received. This paperwork includes basic enrollment and health forms. The Medical Statement form signed by a physician or certified nurse practitioner is required prior to your child attending BrightPath. If you do not submit the Medical Statement within the time frame allotted, you will be out of compliance with rule 5101: 2-12-73 of the Licensing of Child Care Centers resolution. Therefore, your child’s enrollment may be suspended. Any changes to this information must be communicated to the Director immediately so that current information is always on file. This is for the safety of your child. BPAL reserves the right to withdraw enrollment of any child.

HOURS and DAYS OF OPERATION Monday – Friday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm (regular school days per the WCS calendar beginning August 24 2011)Winter /Spring/Summer Breaks: Closed

Holidays/Snow Days: Closed. In the case of a 2 hour delay for WCSD, and no morning kindergarten, BrightPath will close all day. In the case of early dismissal by WCSD, BrightPath Active Learning will communicate our plans to parents directly.

PH_2011_BPUpdated 08.02.11

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* BPAL will follow the calendar of Westerville Schools. Please follow this link to the Westerville City School District website where you can view their calendar. http://www.westerville.k12.oh.us/docs/2011-2012%20Calendar.pdf

* Tuition is not deducted on days we are closed due these holidays and/or breaks.

CURRICULUM Our curriculum at BrightPath will focus on extending each child in their personal goals as well as the Ohio State standards for Kindergarten. Activities and lessons whenever possible will involve an extension to the outdoors. At BrightPath we will use nature and the environment to enhance your child’s studies in literacy, mathematics, social studies, science, art and music. We will develop our daily goals and objectives around each child’s interests and developmental needs. Our model will be flexible and the children will be our guides within a framework of requirements and expectations for the Kindergarten year.

PARENT/TEACHER CONFERENCES AND PROGRESS REPORTS One of our goals at BrightPath Active Learning is to keep parents informed of the daily successes and challenges facing your child. We address all of the Ohio State Kindergarten Standards and like to keep parents informed of their child’s progress. Teachers will be available on a daily basis for brief updates and questions. Parent/Teacher conferences may be arranged upon request of the teacher, or parents. In addition, quarterly progress reports will be provided for every student.

TEACHER CREDENTIALS Director Coral Owdom graduated from Watterson High School in 1994. She has earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Vocal Performance from the University of Dayton, a Master’s Degree in Vocal Performance from the Manhattan School of Music, a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Hunter College, and is currently pursuing additional literacy credits at Ashland University.

Child Care Staff Members and Teachers Our teachers at BrightPath are college educated and experienced to work with your children. Our Director is certified by the State of Ohio in Early Childhood Education.

All child care staff members are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, with one or more of the following: Associate Degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development Associate Credential (CDA), and/or no less than one year of experience working in the early childhood field attending to children. Exception to the above for any student enrolled in the second year of a high school vocational Early Childhood Program.

Substitutes The same staff credentials apply to substitutes.

TrainingAt all times, a staff member with the following trainings will be on-site at BrightPath (including during transportation): First Aid, Management of Communicable Disease, CPR, and Recognition of Child Abuse-Neglect.

ENROLLMENT – STATE RATIOS Staff to Child Max. Group Size SCHOOL-AGERS Are eligible for Kindergarten 1:18 36


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TUITION * PAYMENT * POLICIES BRIGHTPATH RATES Start August 17, 2011 Deposit: Upon registration, the first month’s tuition is due to hold the child’s placement. Full Time, Extended Day $750/month (Morning or Afternoon Session and Extended Day) Part Time, Extended Day $175/day (2, 3, or 4 days per week)

Full Time, Short Day $425/month (Morning or Afternoon Session only) Part Time, Short Day $100/day (2, 3 or 4 days per week)

A discount will apply for students not using BrightPath transportation. The discount will be pro-rated to the number of days enrolled. This would apply to students transported by their parents and Pointview and Cherrington students who walk or ride WCSD buses.

Please make checks payable to BrightPath Active Learning. Payments can be turned into any BrightPath Staff Member. Late Payment Fees We charge a $25.00 late fee for tuition not paid by the first of the month.

Returned Checks A fee of $30.00 will be added to your account for each check returned by your financial institution. In the event of two non-sufficient checks, we may require cash payment or money orders only.

Lunch PolicyIf a child forgets their lunch, BrightPath will provide a catered lunch for that child. The cost of the lunch will be your responsibility and included in your next invoice. If your child does not have a nutritionally balanced lunch that includes fluid milk, the same will apply. BrightPath will cater milk for your child and a fee of $10 will be added to your next invoice. Please see the Nutritional Requirements included in this document.

Billing Adjustments We will not deduct tuition for any days missed due to absence: Your fee pays for direct operating costs, staff, materials, and overhead. All of this must be available for the total number of children enrolled in the program. When your child is enrolled, you reserve the time, space and staff needed for each day. Tuition is still due, in full, regardless of holiday observance, or severe weather warnings, in which BPAL may close. Please refer to our yearly calendar (Westerville Schools) to know which days we will be closed.

If a parent chooses to withdraw his/her child from our program and wants to receive a refund for the remainder of tuition, we must be provided with a written statement of your intent at least two weeks prior to the withdraw.

Absences It is the parent’s responsibility to notify the school when a child will not be in attendance. If your child is ill, or for any reason will not be attending class that day, please notify us immediately. There are two ways to inform us of your child’s absence, (1) call the center before 9am at 614-839-0780 (2) email [email protected] before 9am. It is for the safety of your child that we know his/her whereabouts when not in our care.

It is important that parents notify us if their child is not attending in the morning and afternoon. In the case your child will be attending BPAL in the afternoon, we need to know that she will not be picked up at school as usual.

PARENT COMMUNICATION


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BPAL will communicate with parents regarding day to day updates by text message. These messages may include our location on routine field trip days, reminders, and urgent information. *Urgent or emergency information will also include a phone call from BPAL.

PARENT PARTICIPATION We believe that communication is very important. Parents are invited to visit the school for observation at any time. We encourage parents to participate in the planned activities of the center. Parents may choose to visit as a resource person or even share a hobby with the class.

Due to staff responsibilities and schedules, parents are also asked to make appointments with staff when it is necessary to engage in any lengthy conversations. Teachers want to be able to focus on you and your child at these times.

BrightPath DAILY SCHEDULEDaily Schedule: Morning Session

9:00-9:05 – Arrival/Unpack

9:05-10:30 - Structured daily lesson/activity (Art, Nature Studies, Music, Math, Literacy, Science, Social Studies integrated into exploring and learning through nature and the outdoors)

10:30-10:40 - Snack

10:40-11:25 – Learning Centers (child’s choice) - (May include: Puppets/Dramatic Play/Library/Math activities and games/Literacy and Word Games/Puzzles/Journaling/Drawing/Current areas of study extension projects/Building/among other activities)

11:25 -11:50 – Handwashing/Lunch

11:50 – 12:20 – Story Time/Literacy Lesson and Discussion

12:20-12:25 – Gather Belongings and Prepare to Leave

12:25/12:30 – Depart for Kindergarten at Elementary Schools

Daily Schedule: Afternoon Session12:00 -12:10 – Arrival/Unpack/Handwashing

12:10 - 12:40 – Lunch

12:40 – 1:30 - Learning Centers (child’s choice) - (May include: Puppets/Dramatic Play/Library/Math activities and games/Literacy and Word Games/Puzzles/Journaling/Drawing/Current areas of study extension projects/Building/among other activities)

1:30-2:55 – Structured Daily Lesson/Activity (Art, Nature Studies, Music, Math, Literacy, Science, Social Studies integrated into exploring and learning through nature and the outdoors)

2:50-3:00 – Snack

3:00-3:25 - Story Time/Literacy Lesson and Discussion

3:25-3:30 – Pack-up for Regular Day Students

3:30 – Departure of Regular Day Students

3:30- 4:30 – Learning Centers (child’s choice) and/or Homework Help if needed

4:30-4:40 – Snack

4:40 – 5:50 – Group Activity (Art, Nature Studies, Music, Math, Literacy, Science, Social Studies integrated into exploring and learning through nature and the outdoors)

5:50-6:00 – Pack up/Parent Pick-upPH_2011_BPUpdated 08.02.11

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SCHOOL-AGE CHILDREN POLICIESTracking of School-age Children: School children who are scheduled to be transported to the center by one of the local school bus companies must arrive with their bus. If a student who is scheduled to be at the center does not arrive with the bus drop off, the center will first call the parent or guardian at home/work to determine if they know where the child is. If the child was to have been on the bus, the center will contact the local school to determine the whereabouts of the student. Finally, the emergency contact may be notified to determine where the student is.

Supervision of School-age Children: All children will be supervised by an adult center employee at all times. School-age children will be allowed to go to the restroom without supervision. Students will go outside unless the teacher receives notification from a doctor that the child must remain inside.

Regular routine trips, activities around the premises or to nearby parks and trails will need parent permission annually. It will be kept on file and considered valid until withdrawn in writing form the parent or guardian. BrightPath Active Learning will take frequent routine field trips. The staff/child ratio requirements of school age children 1:18 maintained or exceeded at all times. Children shall be assigned to specific child care staff members for all field trips. These assignments will be written and given to each staff member so that all staff is aware of the children assigned to their groups.

Most routine field trips will be walking trips. The staff/children ratio of 1:10 will be maintained or exceeded at all times and during field trips all children are required to wear identification with name, address and phone information of BrightPath Active Learning. We will have laminated name tags for all the children with this information. These name tags will be worn turned over so that the children’s names will not be visible from a distance.

On routine field trips that involve cars/buses, the driver shall be an employee or child care staff member of BrightPath Active Learning.

Field Trips: For all other field trips parents, guardians or adults authorized by the center may be drivers provided that staff/child ratio requirements are met at the destination. The child care staff member responsible for each child on the field trip shall maintain a written record of which vehicle each child is being transported in and the cellular phone number of the adult in that vehicle who could be contacted in an emergency. A second adult shall be present on the BrightPath bus when used for field trips.

At no time will children be left alone in a vehicle without the driver present. Adults and children must wear seat belts if available and remain seated while the vehicle is in motion. If being transported by car children must ride in the back seat of the vehicle only. The driver must carefully monitor the exiting and entering of the vehicle by all the children in their care. They must also conduct a check to be sure no children are left behind in the vehicle.

Smoking is not permitted in school vehicles or any other modes of transport. Refueling of the vehicle is not permitted while children are on-board the vehicle.

SUPERVISION POLICY Supervision of Children At no time will a child be left unattended. Staff will actively supervise children at all times. Staff sign in and out daily on a weekly attendance sheet. If a child becomes ill, they may be isolated in a section of the room not in use, but within the sight and hearing of a staff member.


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Parent Lunch Nutritional Requirements Information: All parents are required to supply a packed lunch that includes fluid milk and is ready to eat at any time the child is at the center during lunch time (Morning Group: 11:30 am Afternoon Group: 12:10 pm). State guidelines REQUIRE the percentages and servings sizes for each child, by age-group, on the handout you received with your enrollment packet and keep for your reference at all times. This information is also provided for your reference below.

Lunch

Component Minimum ServingFruit or Vegetable ¾ cup

Grains/Breads/Pasta/Noodles ½ cup or 1 sliceFluid Milk 1 cup

Meat or Meat Alternative 2 oz.

*A note will be sent home to inform you of the nutritional food group(s) missing, if applicable, as required by DJFS.

We are happy to provide you a list of suggestions for sound lunches should you request it. No food can be warmed at the center. Cold food must be accompanied by an ice pack. Hot food must come “ready to eat” in a thermos (ravioli, macaroni and cheese, soup, etc.) We cannot add water and heat to warm food items as defined in our “…does not prepare or serve food” exemption from Franklin County Health Department – Food Service Division.

SUPERVISION POLICY Supervision of Children At no time will a child be left unattended. Staff will actively supervise children at all times. Staff sign in and out daily on a weekly attendance sheet. If a child becomes ill, they may be isolated in a section of the room not in use, but within the sight and hearing of a staff member.

Arrival/Departure You will find ―permission to pick-up forms should you have a change in your regular pick up routine. It must be filled out, signed, dated, and handed directly to the staff person in charge of caring for your child, that day. We will not honor phone calls from a parent for pick up changes, unless that person picking up is already listed on your child’s enrollment forms. Any special messages, medications, special pickup permission forms, etc. are to be handed to Director or your child’s teacher directly. No child may be dropped off at the entrance of the building or sent inside alone. Staff must be made aware of each child’s presence before the parent departs. At the time of pick up, parents are asked to make contact with their child’s supervising staff member to ensure that staff is aware that your child has been picked up.

The center will open promptly at 9:00am. Although staff members will be on site earlier for preparation and set-up, parents may not leave children before 9:00am. BPAL will close promptly at 6:00pm. A 10:00 late fee will be assessed per 15 minutes if children are not picked-up on time.

Release of a Child Anyone picking up a child MUST have written verification on their emergency contacts list, or must present written permission to the teacher, using our Pick Up Permission Forms located near the doorway of your child’s classroom.Anyone not familiar to the staff will be required to show picture ID before the child will be released. Staff will not release a child to ANYONE who appears to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Emergency contacts will be called to transport the child home. Police will be notified if necessary.

Custody Agreements


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If there is a custody issue involving your child, you must provide the center with court papers indicating who has permission to pick up the child. The center may not deny a parent access to their child without proper documentation.

Child Abuse Reporting All staff members are mandated reporters of child abuse. If a staff member has suspicions that a child is being abused or neglected, they MUST make a report to the local children’s services agency. The safety and well being of the children is always our first concern.

Emergency School Closing Please follow School Closings and Delays for Westerville Schools. If a morning delay is issued, BrightPath will follow the same delay for the morning session at BrightPath.. Afternoon sessions as well as afterschool care will still be provided on a formal delay. BrightPath students may only attend during their regular scheduled session. For example, if your child attends kindergarten at their elementary school in the morning and BrightPath in the afternoon, and there is a delay cancelling their morning school program, they may not attend Bright Path before their scheduled session at 11:45.

TRIPS/TRANSPORTATION OF CHILDREN Field Trips BPAL will take routine walking trips weekly and daily to nearby baseball field via bike path, soccer fields via parking lot and Pointview Playground via soccer fields or sidewalks (Oak Hill to Pointview) Parents must fill out form 01225 ORC for each routine trip annually, as well as form JFS 01226 for any additional trips that will be planned throughout the school year.

Join us & Sharing Your Talents!Any parent interested in sharing a skill, or hobby, can arrange to come to the center and share their talents! Parents are invited and encouraged to attend and/or assist in transport of for any off-site field trip. Transportation of Children in case of EmergencyThe center will not transport children in emergency situations. If a child requires transportation to receive emergent medical care, the parent or EMS will be contacted. A parent that does not give permission to grant consent for emergency transportation may not be admitted to the center. For less serious medical issues the parent may give BPAL consent to transport to the doctor, dentist or other medical care facility. *BrightPath will determine the level of emergency using the guidelines provided in the First Aid/CPR Manual from the American Red Cross. GUIDANCE POLICY (Rule 5101:2-12-22 ORC) Our facility imposes the requirements of the Ohio Revised Code in regard to guidance and child management techniques Specifications of Rule 5101:2-12-22 apply to all employees of the center and states: Child care staff members assigned to supervise a child or group of children shall be responsible for their guidance and management. The child care staff member shall use developmentally appropriate techniques suitable to the children's ages and relevant to the circumstances such as, but not limited to:

Setting clear limits Redirecting the child to an appropriate activity. Showing children positive alternatives. Modeling the desired behavior. Reinforcing appropriate behavior. Encouraging children to control their own behavior, cooperating with others and solving problems by talking things out. Intervene, when needed, as quickly as possible to ensure the safety of all children.

Developmentally appropriate separation from the situation the separation shall last no more than ten minutes. When the child is to return to the activity child care staff members must review the reason for the separation and what behavior is expected.


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Communicate and consult with parents or guardians prior to implementing any specific behavior management plan. This plan must be in writing and signed by the parent/guardian and must be consistent with the requirements of this rule.

All employees and child care staff members shall not:

Abuse, endanger or neglect children. Utilize cruel, harsh, unusual, or extreme techniques. Utilize any form of corporal punishment. Delegate children to manage or discipline other children. Use physical restraints on a child. Restrain a child by any means other than holding children for a short period of time, such as in a protective hug, so that the children may regain control.

Prone restraint of a child is prohibited. Prone restraint is defined as all items or measures used to limit or control the movement or normal functioning of any portion, or all, of a child's body while the child is in a face-down position. Prone restraint includes physical or mechanical restraint.

Place children in a locked room or confine children in any enclosed area. Humiliate, threaten or frighten children; subject children to profane language or verbal abuse. Make derogatory or sarcastic remarks about children or their families. Punish children for failure to eat or sleep or for toileting accidents. Withhold any food, including snacks and treats, rest or toilet use. Punish an entire group of children due to the unacceptable behavior of one or a few. Isolate and restrict children from all activities for an extended period of time.

Please note: Any employees with children attending the BPAL center will be required to maintain the guidance policies noted above with their own children as well as all other children attending BPAL.

BPAL ADDITIONAL GUIDANCE POLICIES It is our policy to develop children in a positive and individualist manner. We discipline with kindness and respect. We encourage wanted behaviors with positive reinforcement. Helping children learn self-control is very important. We employ the following techniques:

Redirection: This is used with children who are unable to work well together. In this case, a child’s interest is directed elsewhere.

Time Away: This is used when a child cannot cope with a particular situation. The child is taken out of the group for the appropriate amount of time according to his/her age. The child can choose a different area to explore until he/she chooses to re-join the group, or activity.

The above policy applies to all staff and teachers.

If a situation presents itself that a child is consistently endangering himself, his peers or any staff, it may become necessary to withdraw the child’s enrollment. Every attempt will be made to work together with the parents, and the child, to correct the behavior. However, the safety of every child is always our primary concern. The director will be in communication with the parents prior to this occurring.

If the child demonstrates behavior that requires less severity, but ―extra attention from the staff member, we may choose to develop and implement a behavior management plan. This plan would be developed in consultation with the parents and would be consistent with the requirements of Rule 5101: 2-12-22 OAC.

CENTER PROVIDED SNACKS The center will provide one, pre-packaged snack per day. Water is always available. Children must bring a water bottle each day that can be refilled throughout the day. If you would like to send additional snacks in your child’s lunch bag/box, you may.

*Please provide children with pre-packaged treats or snacks for classroom parties & activities. PH_2011_BPUpdated 08.02.11

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We will inform all parents of any severe allergies held by other students as they arise. Parents are also welcome to join us for such celebrations. ACCIDENTS/EMERGENCIES BrightPath Active Learning has devised several procedures to follow in the event that an emergency would occur while a child is in the center’s care. In the event of a fire, or tornado, staff would follow the written instructions posted in each classroom, describing emergency evacuation routes, and the procedures to be followed to assure that children have arrived at the designated spot. In order to prepare children for the unlikely need to evacuate, the center does conduct monthly fire drills, and periodic tornado drills. Should we need to evacuate due to fire or weather conditions, or the loss of power, heat, or water, our emergency destination is: Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church located at 100 East Schrock Road. A secondary evacuation location in the event that all nearby areas are unsafe will be at Westerville Church of the Nazarene at 355 Cherrington Road. A sign will be posted in front of the center indicating that we have been evacuated and the location where you can pick up your child in addition to a text message sent to all parents regarding location if possible. If a parent cannot be reached, we will contact the emergency contacts as listed on your child’s enrollment information.

In the unlikely event there would be an environmental threat or a threat of violence, the staff will; secure the children in the safest location possible, contact and follow the directions given by the proper authorities and contact the parents as soon as the situation allows. An incident report would also be provided to the parents.

All of our staff is required to have received training in First Aid, Communicable Disease and CPR within the first six months of their employment. In the case of a minor accident/injury a staff member will administer basic first aid and TLC. If the injury would be more serious, first aid would be administered and the parents would be contacted immediately to assist in deciding an appropriate course of action. If an injury is life threatening, the EMS will be contacted, parents will be notified, and a staff member will accompany the child to the hospital with all available health records. Staff may not transport children in their vehicles in a life threatening situation. Only parents or EMS will transport.

An incident/injury report will be completed, and given to the person picking up the child, on the day of the incident/injury, if any of the following occur: the child has an illness, accident, or injury which requires first aid; the child receives a bang or blow to the head; the child has to be transported by emergency squad; or an unusual or unexpected event occurs which jeopardizes the safety of the child. If a child requires emergency transportation, the report shall be available within twenty-four hours after the incident occurs. The center shall also contact licensing personnel from the appropriate ODJFS office within twenty-four hours when there is a ―general emergency or ―serious incident, injury, or illness. The report will be provided to licensing staff within three days of the incident.

MANAGEMENT of ILLNESSES*Please review carefully

We provide children with a clean and healthy environment. However, we realize that children become ill from time to time, especially during the months of November, December, January and February. If this is your child’s first group care experience, it is possible that they may experience more frequent illnesses in the beginning before their immune system becomes more active. We observe all children as they enter the program to quickly assess their general health. We ask that you not bring a sick child to the center. They will be sent home with or without the presence fever, should the child exhibit two symptoms of sickness. For example, a yellow discharge out of sinus passages and a cough. Please designate a person to care for your child as an alternative should your child be sent home if you are unable to take time off from work/school.

A child with any of the following symptoms will be immediately isolated and discharged to the parent or emergency contact: - Temperature of 100 degrees F – in combination with any other sign of illness


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- Temperature of 101 degrees F, when taken under the arm, without other signs of illness. Please read our fever policy below closely.

- Diarrhea (more than three abnormally loose stools within a 24 hour period , not 3 abnormally loose stools during a single day in our care.

- Severe coughing (causing the child to become red in the face or to make a whooping sound) - Difficult or rapid breathing - Yellowish skin or eyes - Redness of the eye, obvious discharge, matted eyelashes, burring, itching - Untreated skin patches, unusual spots or rashes - Unusually dark urine or grey or white stools - Stiff neck with an elevated temperature - Evidence of untreated lice, scabies, or other parasitic infestation - Vomiting more than once or when accompanied by another sign of illness - Sore throat or difficulty swallowing - RSV: BPAL’s policy on RSV is that the child may not return to the center for a full 48 hours from the

time of diagnosis. This is HIGHLY contagious and can last up to three weeks. Although RSV is a virus, and not a bacterial infection, it is a communicable disease that may cause severe lung and respiratory problems. Therefore, BPAL requires 48 hours away from other children before his returns. Likely, after two days of breathing treatments, the child’s cough and nasal discharge decrease significantly.

- Parents will be notified by a sign on the door if children have been exposed to a communicable illness.

Any child demonstrating signs of illness not listed above will be isolated and carefully observed for symptoms.

Anytime a child is isolated they will be kept within sight and hearing of a staff member Any cot or linens used will be washed and disinfected before being used again.

A parent will be notified if the child does not feel well enough to participate in center activities, for example: sleeping during classroom activities for an unusual length of time. The child will be dismissed to the care of his parent, or emergency contact, for the rest of the day.

*FEVER POLICY: Please read carefully 24 hours AFTER your child’s last normal fever reading, he/she may be readmitted to the center. Please note this does not mean 24 hours after they leave the center ill. If the child returns after 24 hours from his last fever reading but is not symptom free, a doctor’s note is required stating that the child may return to the center.

Medications We do not administer over the counter medications. If your child has a known medical condition such as; asthma, diabetes, seizure disorders, or severe allergies, the parent must provide written instruction on the required Medical Care Plan. Any training needed must be included on the Medical Care Plan and staff must receive training by the parent, or the child’s physician before any medication can be administered. If medication is to be kept at the center for a chronic medical condition, it must be in the original container. If medication is to be kept at the school for a chronic condition, it must be in the original container and the Request for Medication from must be completed. School-agers must comply with the above medical administration policy if inhalers or medication is used by a parent/guardian filling out the request to administer medication forms as well as a medical care plan. *Please note that regulations include sunscreen and lip balm in the medication category. These may be administered by BPAL staff if the parent has completed a Request for Medication form.

Food Supplements or Modified Diets If your child requires a food supplement or a modified diet due to allergies or other health need, you must secure written information from your physician regarding your child’s specific need and complete form JFS 01217. PH_2011_BPUpdated 08.02.11

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Outdoor Play Our school’s philosophy is centered around the benefits of children playing and learning actively in nature and the outdoors. Based on our model and state requirements, outdoor play/experiences will be included in our program on a daily basis. We will limit the amount of time spent outdoors when there are extreme weather conditions. On days that outdoor play is not provided due to these conditions; we will include a time for indoor activities of the same. Children will be required and expected to be appropriately attired for all types of weather and temperatures. **Please see the required outdoor clothing list provided under Additional BPAL Policies.

SwimmingNO swimming activities will be conducted through the Center.

ADDITIONAL BPAL POLICIES Required Outdoor Clothing Policy/SuppliesThe following items will be required for each child attending BrightPath in order for them to participate safely in our extended outdoor learning experiences:

Windbreaker Jacket Rain Boots Rain Coat Winter Coat Snow Pants Snow Boots Gloves/Mittens Scarf Winter Hat Extra layering clothes such as a thin fleece, a sweatshirt or the like.

*There will be some storage available at the Center for these items so they do not need to be transported on a daily basis. As the seasons change and the need for additional or different outdoor gear changes, we will communicate to all parents.

Each student will be required to provide a non-leaking water bottle labeled with their name along with their lunch each day.

****Child’s Personal Clothing or Property Your child is to wear comfortable play clothes and shoes with non-slip soles. A change of clothes – is required at each change of season. Please put this change of clothes in a large Ziploc bag labeled with their name. Children will grow from spring to winter so we ask that you exchange items each season to be sure clothes fit properly. There will be a storage cabinet at BrightPath where these extra clothes can be stored. In the case of rain, snow or mud, we want to make sure that your child can remain warm and comfortable in our care and as they may be going on to their school kindergarten program in the afternoon.

Children should not chew gum or have it on their person. Please do not allow your child to bring money, toys, food, or other items not necessary for center activities. BrightPath Active Learning cannot be responsible for the loss of personal property.

Classroom Roster Classroom rosters are primarily used to share contact information among your child’s peers. We are not in control of this information – we will collect the data and share it among the class. If you do not wish to be included on the roster, you are welcome to request an exclusion on the enrollment form.


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Please direct any questions regarding the handbook to the Owner of BrightPath Active Learning, Erica Wares or the Administrator, Coral Owdom.


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BrightPath Active Learning, LLC ORGANIZATIONAL NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY

BrightPath Active Learning, LLC does not discriminate in its staff, board, volunteers, volunteer committees, or recipients of services on the basis of a person’s race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, marital status, veteran status, or mental or physical disability or any other status prohibited by applicable law.

BrightPath Active Learning, LLC

Signature:_____________________________________Print name: _____________________

Title: Director of BrightPath Active Learning, LLC

Date: July 10, 2011


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BrightPath Active Learning, LLCParent Handbook Review and Signature Form

I have read and understand all the policies and procedures of BrightPath Active Learning. I understand my requirements as a parent and my child’s requirements as an enrollee.

*Please review again the most important policies referenced below:

Philosophy Page 1: Last paragraph

Center Parent Information Required by Ohio Administrative Code Page 2

Admission/Hours and Days of Operations Page 2

Parent/Teacher Conferences and Progress Reports Page 3

Tuition and Payment Policies Pages 3 and 4

Parent Communication/Parent Participation Page 4

School Age Children Policies Pages 5, 6 and 7

Supervision Policy Page 7

Trips/Transportation of Children Pages 7 and 8

BPAL Additional Guidance Policy/Center Provided Snacks Page 9

Accidents and Emergencies Pages 9 and 10

Management of Illnesses Pages 10 and 11

Medications/Food Supplements or Modified Diets Page 11

Outdoor Play Page 11

Additional BPAL Policies Pages 11 and 12

___________________________________ ____________________________________

Printed Name Child’s Name

______________________________________ ____________________________________

Signature Date


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