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Parent Orientation Packet The Village The following information should be helpful as your child transitions to the Village after school program . More specific information from your child’s counselors will be available during orientation. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to your school’s director.

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The LeafSpring School Philosophy

WE BELIEVE THAT ALL CHILDREN NEED: A SCHOOL designed to promote the success of each child based on their developmental level and diverse needs. A CURRICULUM that provides a balance of child directed and teacher guided activities—one which provides a diversity of experiences designed to initiate d i s c o v e r y a n d a love for learning in our ever-changing world. QUALIFIED TEACHERS capable of preparing a rich learning environment and developing close teacher/child relationships based on the child’s age, need and situation. PRIMARY CARE GROUPS to ensure consistent, quality, meaningful interactions and relationships. A school that involves and communicates regularly with PARENTS -one that supports families in parenting and in enhancing understanding of their child’s growth and development, in an effort to promote positive work-life harmony. An environment that exemplifies WELLNESS through intentional lessons and activities which promote sound health and safety practices, good nutrition and active lifestyles. Opportunities to develop their natural LEADERSHIP skills and talents, to assist them in becoming capable, self-actualized individuals and responsible citizens. A carefully designed setting with a NURTURING ATMOSPHERE—one that fosters acceptance and security. ENVIRONMENT in which to move about with ample age appropriate play equipment and materials. Ongoing AUTHENTIC DEVELOPMENTAL EVALUATION and parent conferences that emphasize progress, accomplishments and areas for continued growth, and guide the appropriate scaffolding of the curriculum to target individual needs. Freedom and guidance to EXPLORE and learn without the fear of failure—a process necessary for the development of self-confidence and pleasure in learning.

Parent Advisory Board

LeafSpring School’s Parent Advisory Board is comprised of parent representatives from the various age groups served at the school. Although membership on the Parent Advisory Board is by invitation, anyone interested in serving on the school’s board should discuss their interest with the Director.

What It Is: The Mission of the Board is to: •

Assist the Director(s) in the planning of school wide events.

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Assist the classroom and teacher in planning classroom events.

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Identify and execute ongoing projects that support the school.

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Solicit the help of other parents as needed for special projects.

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Develop faculty/staff appreciation initiatives.

What It Isn’t: The Parent Board: •

Does not assist in making school policy or procedure.

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Does not field parent complaints.

Notes on Discipline

Discipline and guidance are based on an understanding of each child’s individual needs and his/her current developmental stage. The purpose of all discipline is to teach the child acceptable behavior and to guide him/her toward appropriate self-management. Depending on your child’s age and the situation, one or more of the following discipline methods may be used: 1.

Positive reinforcement of desirable behaviors

Positively focused communication, appropriate to child’s age level

Proactive and preventative classroom management that promotes desirable behaviors

Encouraging “Use of Words” in problem solving

Discussion of natural and logical consequences

Distraction/repeated redirection

Time away from the group (to be used as last resort ONLY)

In more challenging discipline situations, a collaborative plan will be developed between the parents and the Director and/or teacher for behavior modification.

Children are never subjected to harsh and cruel treatment, humiliation, abusive language, physical punishment, or any discipline associated with food, napping, or toilet training. Children are never subjected to verbal abuse that would include, but not be limited to, threats, belittling remarks about any child, his family, his race, his religion, or his cultural background, or other statements that are frightening or humiliating to the child. LeafSpring School adheres to a ZERO tolerance stance on breaches to our discipline policy. We request that parents abide by these same provisions while in the school or at school events.

Transportation for School Age Children

Transportation is provided to and from serviced elementary schools for enrolled school age children. •

To receive transportation services, parents/guardians must grant authorization for transport at the time of enrollment and annually thereafter.

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Please reinforce seatbelt safety with your child. Children are required to wear seatbelts at all times while being transported.

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If your child is being transported to LeafSpring School by a county school bus or other transportation, you must inform the school’s administration so that we can assist in ensuring his/her safe transition to our program.

Transportation is provided to the Get Well Place for school age children who become sick at school. •

To receive transportation services, parents/guardians must grant authorization for transport at the time of enrollment and annually thereafter.

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Parents must call LeafSpring School to arrange for transportation. o Transportation may be delayed if all buses are otherwise in use, as ill children are not transported with well children. If transportation is delayed, the parent and the school will be notified.

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The school must be informed that LeafSpring School is authorized to pick up your sick child.

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Upon arrival at the Get Well Place our nurse will assess your child’s condition and notify you of his/her findings.

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NOTE: Transportation to the Get Well Place for non-enrolled children is also offered with the appropriate prior authorization.