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GENERAL
ENTRANCE/EXIT-The main entrance door, by the office, is open from 8:30 until 4:00. The side door, by the ramp, will be opened on an individual basis for parents or designated representatives of children enrolled in the All Day (7:30 to 6:00) program. The carpool door (second door in front of the school) is opened only during arrival/dismissal times. The door is for staff use only.
FAMILY MATTERS-Please notify both the office and your child's teacher if any situations develop which could affect the behavior of your child. These include both positive and negative matters. Examples are: births, illnesses or deaths, separations or divorce, elongated visits from relatives, changes in child care or vacations. If we know what's happening in a child's life, we'll be more equipped to deal with personality changes.
FIELD TRIPS-We have not taken these young children on field trips for over a decade. Rather, we secure quality professionals to make presentations at the school. Your pre-paid Activity Fee covers the cost of the programs. If your child attends school on a day other than a presentation day or if your child is an afternoon student, we welcome him/her to attend the event. Please check with your child's teacher for the time of the program. An exception to this is the traditional two trips taken by our Extended Day (Kindergarten) students. One trip is by bus and one is in the family car.
FIRE DRILLS-Fire drills are held once a month. We will do our best to explain the nature of this event and ask that you assist your child with any fears exhibited at home.
FOOD POLICIES-The school has a "no candy" policy which has been in effect for years. Past parents have found the policy to be helpful in promoting healthy eating habits. We also have a "no peanut" policy due to the growing number of children who are allergic to peanuts, peanut butter, etc. Our policy has been used as a model for other schools and is felt to be the best protection we can provide for everyone's child.
MUSIC-Our Music teacher, Miss Nanci, provides instruction for each class on Wednesdays.
NURSE-A county nurse visits our school one day each week. She is responsible to verify all medical information for your child, including compliance with medical forms and immunization requirements. She is on hand or on call for any of our medical emergencies or questions. The school nurse provides vision and hearing testing for students who are 5 years of age or older.
OFFICE HOURS-The office is open from 8:30 to 4:00 each day. Please leave a message if no one answers your call; both lines may be in use. Phone messages can be left at any time of day or night. If you are the parent of an All Day (7:30 to 6:00) student and need to call about a late pick-up and it's after 4:00, please leave a message. Someone will retrieve messages if your child is not picked up by 6:00.
PARENT ADVISORY BOARD-Existing parents are asked to volunteer for this position in the spring prior to the start of each school year. Compliments and concerns are shared with Joanne Pelly and then forwarded to the school team. All parents are welcomed and encouraged to provide input for staff consideration. Our school team meets on a bi-weekly basis.
PROGRAMS-Changes: Please contact Joanne if you'd like to change your child's program. She is the only one who is fully familiar with the class maximums. There is a $50 change fee for any permanent program change. Extra hours - If you have a need or emergency which requires earlier or later hours, please contact Joanne. She will make the arrangements, if availability exists. There is a $20 per hour fee for any occasional care. 3 Day Students - Days are not interchangeable nor can days be made up if caused by illness, vacation or holidays. This is due to scheduling of staff and class maximums. Permanent increase from 3 to 5 days can easily be made. Half Day Students - Please contact Joanne if you have a need for your child to stay for a full day. Provisions may be made, subject to availability. The fee is $40 per day for the half session.
RECESS-All children are required to participate in outdoor activity. There are no extra staff members to supervise children whose parents request that they remain indoors.
STUDENT FILES-Certain paperwork is required by law to be part of your child's file. If the items are missing, we'll send you a reminder notice plus a copy of the missing item(s).
SUSPENSION-We have had to part ways with two families in 31 years due to the behavior of a child, but have never considered the action to be a "suspension". We are now governed by state law which mandates how we must handle certain problematic matters. Each family receives and must sign a copy of this mandate which is then kept in your child's folder.
VOLUNTEERS-We welcome and rely upon volunteers. A sign-up sheet is distributed at the beginning of each year. Please contact your child's teacher if you have questions about helping in the classroom and contact Joanne if you have questions about volunteering on a school-wide basis.
STUDENTS/CLASSROOM
ACCIDENTS-Reports of accidents will be sent home on the same day that any incidents may occur. We will record as much information as we have been able to establish as to how the accident occurred. C.P.R./First Aid-Individuals with these certifications are present at the school to assist with any emergencies. We are one of the few NJ non-public schools to have received a "crash kit" from the state for catastrophic situations. We are fortunate that the materials have never had to be used.
BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS-We have a special way of commemorating your child's birthday. Your child's teacher will explain the details. Please advise her of your intent to visit so that a mutually convenient date/time can be selected. Those who have summer birthdays are welcome to celebrate half birthdays. Birthday snacks are always welcome. We ask that they are simple treats, such as Munchkins, puddings or fruit. "Goodie bags" are not encouraged.
CLASS LISTS-Lists of names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mails are available for your child's classmates. They are handy for outside birthday parties and play dates, but are not to be used for solicitation purposes. Lists are available in the office. At times, students move or enter a class later in the year, so if you are planning a party then, please check for the most recent list.
CLOTHING-Please send in a complete change of clothing for your child. These will be used for incidents such has spilled juice, wetness from water activities or bathroom incidents. Wet clothing will be sent home with an explanation. Please return the spare clothing so that a set is ready for your child. As seasons and sizes change, alternate clothes should be sent in. Upon receipt, the existing clothes will be returned to you.
Slippers-Slippers are worn daily in the classroom and store in cubbies. Please select simple slippers. Large or light-up slippers are discouraged due to safety concerns and distraction for the class.
Playground shoes-Please send in an extra pair of outside shoes to be kept at school and used on the playground. We suggest that they are sneakers that still fit and can get dirty. The request is due to the yellow residue from the pea gravel playground surface.
Labeling-Please label all of your child's clothing.
Style-Montessori encourages children to care for themselves as much as possible. Items such as overalls are extremely difficult for children to undo when racing to the bathroom. Buttons on a bulky coat may be difficult for little fingers. Our intent is to help minimize the frustration level of children seeking to be as independent as other children. Children will be active and using many mediums during the school day. Simple playwear is recommended.
Cold Weather Clothes-Please send your child with (labeled) hats, gloves and scarves during colder weather. Boots and snow pants are required for outside play on snow days.
Accessories-Parents are discouraged from dressing your child in expensive hairpieces, necklaces, bracelets, rings, pins, etc. These items usually distract most children, are removed by the child and sometimes lost. We accept no responsibility for expensive items broken or lost at the school.
COMMUNICATION-Parents will receive a newsletter on a monthly basis. This will explain present and upcoming activities planned for the class. Notes can be sent to your child's teacher and phone messages may be left if you would like to discuss any particular matter.
DISCIPLINE-Disciplinary matters are handled as gently as possible. We refrain from using words such as "time out" as much as possible. Typically, children are spoken to privately and quietly if an infraction occurs. Our voices may elevate if a situation becomes a health or safety matter. We ask that you remind your child of our basic requirements-no hitting, yelling, spitting or biting. We also ask that each child respect the other children, including items they are working with.
HOLIDAY PARTIES-The teachers will organize all celebrations for the classes. Parent helpers will be selected on a rotating basis from those who have responded on the Volunteer Form. This gives all interested parents a chance to participate.
HOURS-The morning sessions begin promptly at 9:00; the afternoon begins at 12:30. All Day students are welcome from 7:30 until 6:00.
ILLNESS-Children who exhibit any of the illnesses or symptoms of illness listed below will not be permitted to attend school unless we have received a medical diagnosis from a licensed physician indicating that the child poses no serious health risk to themselves or other children. These include, but aren't limited to: severe pain or discomfort; acute diarrhea; vomiting or fever within 24 hours; sore throat or severe coughing; yellow eyes or jaundiced skin; red eyes with discharge; infected, untreated patches; difficult or rapid breathing; skin rashes; weeping or bleeding skin lesions that have not been treating; swollen joints; visibly enlarged lymph nodes or blood in the urine.
It is extremely important that we be made aware of any child with conditions such as asthma or allergies to insect stings, peanuts, etc. and the treatment required. This is so the best possible decisions can be made if the situation occurs. Please notify the school if your child has a contagious condition such as Chicken Pox, Fifth's Disease, Head Lice, Impetigo, Pink Eye, Ringworm or Strep Throat. A doctor's note is required for the child to return to school. In addition, please keep your child home until he or she has been fever-free for 24 hours.
CONTACTS-
Teacher-Progress of child, birthdays, snack, field trips (for Extended Day students)
Brinley Naudain-Financial matters
Mary Cichon-Curriculum
Joanne Pelly-Policy, changes in program, alternate pick-up plans, concerns not addressed elsewhere
HAND-OUTS-We request that no candy items be brought to school for distribution. Although we recognize the generosity of our parents, bags of candy for birthdays and holidays create confusion and jealousy for the children.
Invitations-We cannot be responsible for the distribution of birthday invitations, playdate invites, etc. The acceptance of these items would make the receipt our responsibility. We also have no explanation when asked, "Why didn't I get one?"
LUNCH-Students who remain for lunch should bring items prepared from home. Please use thermos-type containers to keep lunch hot or cold. We don't have the available staff or supplies to microwave or refrigerate children's lunches. We will, however, assist each child with opening storage containers. Leftover food will be sent home so that you can determine what your child has eaten. Unfinished juice won't be saved. Children are expected and encouraged to display table manners and remain in their seats during lunchtime. We ask that you remind your child that sharing of food is not permitted at the school. Please be sure to include a napkin and eating utensils for your child. We appreciate if lunches can be as healthy as possible with no candy included.
MEDICINE-Medication can only be administered to your child if a Medical Release Form has been completed by the parent. This must be accompanied by a doctor's note/signature, the original prescription bottle and dosage requirements. Forms are available in the office. Please note that non-prescription medicines are not permitted at the school unless prescribed by a doctor as per the above. We are not permitted to use creams nor give Tylenol. Children are not permitted to bring in cough drops, lozenges or saline sprays. These examples are according to state code and illustrate that nothing can be administered without the written permission of your child's pediatrician.
NORMALIZATION of the CLASS-Normalization (inner-discipline) is a prime objective of the Montessori program. A normalized child is capable of using the materials in the classroom, undisturbed, for extended periods of time. To establish the individual's right to work peacefully in a place of his/her own choosing at his/her own pace, a series of ground rules are instituted. Some examples include: (a) materials being returned to their proper place on the shelves so they will be readily accessible to other children, (b) speaking in a quiet voice and not running through the classroom so that others will not be disturbed while they work, (c) lessons in ground rules and courtesy. Proper behavior is expected, not only in the classroom, but also in all areas of the building and playground.
OBSERVATIONS-One-way windows are built into each classroom door. If you choose to observe, appointments are not necessary. Simply ring the bell near the office door, sign in the sign-in book, get a Visitor's Pass and begin your observation. We do ask that you keep your voice low so as to not interrupt the class. The best observation point is to stand a bit away from the window. In this way, the children won't be able to identify who's watching. It's a good idea to not advise your child that you will be observing so that he/she doesn't get distracted in anticipation of your visit.
PERSONAL BELONGINGS-Candy, gum and toys may not be brought to school. Special books, educational items or items from a trip or vacation may be brought in to share with the class.
Videos-We seldom show videos. If we do, they are those with educational value. Please don't send your child to school with cartoon or fairy-tale videos.
PROGRESS-Questions concerning your child's academic, social or emotional progress should be directed to the teacher. Please send notes or call the office to request a return phone call. Teachers are unavailable to speak to parents when class is in session. Scheduled conferences are held in the fall and spring of each year. Other conferences may be held throughout the year at the will of either the parent or teacher.
SHOW 'N SHARE-The schedule for this activity will be given by your child's teacher. Items from nature, children's art projects, vacation/ holiday mementos and educational items are considerations. Please don't send in toys. Guns, swords, etc. are not permitted in the school.
SNACK-Snack is provided by the parents on a voluntary, rotating basis. Coordination is done by the teacher and parents are asked to send in snack once or twice a month for the class. A list of suggested items will be sent home in the Wednesday folders. Please don't select any food with nuts listed as part of the ingredients. Many of the children have nut allergies. The school provides the juice. If your child is absent on the day when snack has been assigned to you, please don't worry and think you have you have to get the snack to school. There are usually back-up items which can be served.
TOILET TRAINING-Students are required to be toilet trained and self-sufficient in caring for their toileting needs. Pull-ups are not considered to be needed for a trained child. The reason is that we are not licensed by the state to care for children in this area (no diapering areas, etc.). We will, of course, assist any child who has an occasional need in this area of development.
WORK FOLDERS-Every task in a Montessori classroom is referred to as the child's "work". Please keep in mind that much of the Montessori work is "hands-on" and paperwork won't be generated. However, if your child has completed a paper "work", the item(s) will be sent home in a folder on every Wednesday of the school year. Items from the office will be included in this folder as well. Please return your child's empty folder on the next day that he/she attends school.
FINANCES
DUES-As with most schools, there is a $20 fee for HSA (Home & School Association) dues. These are payable in September of each year and are used as start-up funds and for supplemental school supplies. Checks should be made payable to Naudain Academy HSA.
PAYMENTS-The most effective way to see that the office received your checks is to mail the item or bring it to the office. There is a wooden lock box located near the sign-in book. This is a great depository for those who arrive before or after office hours or during peak office times.
TUITION-Tuition is due on the first day of each month. There is a $50 late fee and a $50 bounced check fee. If the first falls on a weekend of during a holiday period, please see that your check is sent by the contracted date. In this non-profit school, the funds are required for salaries and operational costs. It would be unfair of us to waive requirements for certain parents while not considering the same for all. We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.
SCHOOL CLOSING
WEATHER or EMERGENCY CONCERNS-If the school is closed due to inclement weather or any emergency, the closing will be announced on radio station KYW (1060 AM). Our school closing # is 3463. We will also be mentioned on Channel 3 or 6 TV or at www.KYW1060.com and www.6abc.com. If the school opens in the morning, it will remain open for the rest of the day. We will not close early. However, please use your own judgment as to whether or not to send your child to school and when to pick him/her up. On certain occasions, we may have a delayed opening. Since the school opens at 7:30, please remember that a 2 hour delay means that we will open at 9:30.
TRANSPORTATION/FEES
ACCESS ROUTE-During carpooling times, please use Birch St. to Oak Ave., then onto School La. This route has proven to provide greater access to the school's driveway. It also allows our parents to be safeguarded from the bus and car traffic caused by our neighboring school.
ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION-Forms for those, other than parents, who will pick up children have been distributed and are listed on a master list. Under no circumstances will a child be released to someone other than who you have listed on the form. If a situation occurs, your child will be removed to another area and we will attempt to contact you about a pick-up attempt. If your child is leaving school for a playdate, please send a note so that we can have him/her ready for another parent. If carseats are brought to the school for such an event, we'll store them near the carpool door. Parents or designated parties who are picking up other children who required a stored carseat should park in the parking lot and meet staff at the carpool door for the extra seat and children.
CARPOOL-(For all students other than those enrolled in the All Day/7:30 to 6:00 program) Please drive to the 2nd door in front of the school to drop off and pick up your child. Staff will be there at the times listed below to assist you. Due to insurance regulations, we are not permitted to buckle your child into their carseat. For this reason, we ask that you exit your car and bring or meet your child at the curb.
Arrival Times: 8:40 to 8:55 (Class starts at 9:00)
12:20 to 12:25 (Class starts at 12:30)
Dismissal Times: 12:00 to 12:15
3:00 to 3:15
Children not registered in the All Day program, who arrive at school prior to 8:40 will be charged $15 (from 1 to 15 min. early) and $15 for each additional 15 min. increment. All Day (7:30 to 6:00) students should be brought to and picked up from the ramp door on the side of the school. Staff will be there to open the door for you. Parking spots will be left for parents of these students. Parents will be charged $15 (from 1 to 15 min.) for a late pick-up and $15 for every additional 15 min. increment.
PARKING-Please park in the designated spots in front of the school or in the parking lot. We ask that no one park next to the sidewalk at any time. Due to safety concerns, this area is to be used only at the above arrival and dismissal times, while the cars are lined up. We thank you, in advance, for your cooperation in this matter.
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