parent guidebook - neighborhood christian center...page 6 of 43 ncc parent guidebook/pw updated:...

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NCC Parent Guidebook/pw Updated: 08.24.2016

PARENT GUIDEBOOK 2016 - 2017 SCHOOL YEAR

“A Natural Place to Play”

Address: 887 Pomeroy Avenue, Santa Clara CA 95051 / Phone: (408) 984-3418 / Fax: (408) 246-5572

Facility License #: Preschool – 434407992 / Daycare – 434407991 E-Mail: [email protected] / Website: www.myncc.net

Neighborhood Christian Center is a Ministry of Agape Schools Inc., dba: Neighborhood Christian Schools (NCS);

A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Religious Corporation / Tax ID #: 94-275-2656 / www.agapeschools.com

mailto:[email protected]

www.myncc.net

www.agapeschools.com

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WELCOME NOTE FROM OUR OFFICE Dear NCC Families, Thank you for choosing NCC and for allowing us to help nurture your child. It is such a wonderful gift to foster in them a love for God, self, people, and places. In our daily preparation of the NCC campus, we facilitate their play environments to allow them to explore through wonder, discovery and risk-taking. Many sounds of, “I did it!” will resonate as their self-esteem and self-reliance is raised. We pray that this strong foundation will nurture the movers and the shakers of tomorrow one hug at a time. We look forward to working with you, the parents, while you volunteer on campus and off campus, to invest not only in your child’s experience while at NCC, but for the next generations of NCC students and staff. We stand ready to partner with you for a loving and encouraging early learning experience. Our office door is open and we are ready to serve you. We welcome you and your family to NCC. Blessings, Graciela Marques-Hahn Executive Director & Co-Founder

NCC’s EXECUTIVE STAFF

Graciela Marques-Hahn Jessica Fraser Grace Baek Executive Director Program Director

(B1, B2 & B5)

Program Director

(B3, B4 & Edible Yard)

[email protected] [email protected] [email protected]




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TABLE OF CONTENTS WELCOME NOTE FROM OUR OFFICE …………………………………………………………Page 2

WHO WE ARE AS NCC ……………………………………………………………………….…. Page 5-14

a. Mission Statement b. About Us c. NCC’s Philosophy of Learning d. Approaches e. NCC’s Executive Administration f. NCC’s Staff g. NCC as a “Green Campus” h. Approaches i. Next Steps j. Available Options

I. ADMISSIONS POLICY ……………………………………………………………...……… .Page 15-18

a. Tuition b. Change of Status c. Withdrawals d. Absences e. Admission Forms f. Visits and Conferences g. Notice of Non-Discriminatory Policy h. Office Hours and Contact Information i. NCC Campus Map j. NCC Annual Calendar k. NCC Annual Events Calendar

II. DROP-OFF/PICK-UP POLICY ……..……………………………………….………….. Page 19-21

a. Digital Attendance - Sign-In / Sign-Out i. Kinderlime

ii. Paper Sign-In / Sign-Out b. Pick-Up Authorization c. AM/PM Inspection d. Early Drop-off, Extended Care and Late Pick-up

i. Tardies ii. Extended Care Hours

iii. Late Pick-Up Charges

III. SAFETY POLICY ……………………………….……..……………......................... Page 22-24

a. Visitors and Volunteers b. Parking Lot Safety c. Gates d. Using our Campus e. Photo/Video Sharing at NCC

IV. EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ….……..…………………….……..………..…......... Page 24-25

a. Emergency and Disaster Preparedness b. Emergency Hospital c. Emergency Procedures

i. NCC Emergency Color Codes

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d. Evacuation Procedures i. Evacuation Route

e. Emergency Notifications and Student Release Policy

V. WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SICK ….……..…………………………….… Page 26-28

a. Dealing with a sick child b. Contagious Diseases c. Exposure Notices d. Returning to School e. Medication f. Required Immunization g. Head Lice Policy

VI. DRESS CODE POLICY ….……...…………………….……………………...........……... Page 29

a. Children Dress Code b. Boys Dress Code c. Girls Dress Code

VII. CHILD GUIDANCE PROCEDURES ….…….………………….…….……………..... Page 30-32

a. Expectations for Classroom Behavior b. Disciplinary Procedures c. Follow-Up Correction d. Indoor and Outdoor Rules e. Accident and Incident Reports f. Quarterly Evaluations

VIII. HAPPY HEALTHY ME POLICY ….…….…………………….……………..…........ Page 32-33

a. NCC Wellness Policy

IX. CLASSROOM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ….…….…………………………….. Page 33-37

a. Napping b. Potty Training c. Extra Clothing d. Labelling and Lost & Found e. Sunscreen f. Toys g. VIP’s h. Birthdays and Classroom Parties i. Meals j. Snacks k. Teacher-Parent Communication Procedures l. “Why they are ‘Just Playing’” article m. Our Foundational Beliefs

X. LEGAL POLICY….…….…………………….……………..........…........................ Page 38-43

a. Community Care Licensing b. Parent/Guardian Rights c. Children’s Personal Rights d. Parents Grievance Procedure and Agreement e. Acknowledgement for Receipt of NCC Parent Guide book

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WHO WE ARE AS NCC

MISSION STATEMENT

Our mission at Neighborhood Christian Center is to embrace individuality in a natural, developmentally appropriate play-based environment which fosters a love of learning. It is our mission to nurture the whole child through wonder and discovery. We teach children that God loves everyone and Jesus is their friend and Savior. We practice good stewardship of ourselves, relationships with others, and the world. We welcome all children regardless of race, sex, color, religion, nationality, or ethnicity.

ABOUT US

Neighborhood Christian Center was established in 1981 as a non-profit service to the families and children of our community. Neighborhood Christian Schools are operated by Agape Schools, Inc., a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Religious Corporation (www.agapeschools.com). To this day, NCC’s purpose remains steadfast, to nurture the whole child, support families, partner with our community, show good stewardship of our world while loving, honoring, and serving God. PHILOSOPHY OF LEARNING

NCC‘s primary principle is to promote participation in developmentally-appropriate activities which are child and teacher led taking place in both indoor and outdoor learning environments. Children are encouraged to learn through play. NCC’s play-based philosophy draws from multiple theorists such as Piaget, Dewey, Gardner, Erikson and Vygotsky to name a few.

Cognitive - Cognitive development leads to “knowing.” Children develop and grow as they acquire, apply, adapt, integrate, and evaluate knowledge while constructing new and expanding old concepts. The developmental focus is physical, logical, mathematical and social conventional knowledge. This includes scientific understanding and critical thinking.

Language - The developmental focus of the language area is receptive and expressive language, listening, reading and writing. The purpose is for children to communicate their ideas and feelings.

Physically - As children progress physically, they will develop confidence and competence in the control and movement of their body. They will develop the attitudes, knowledge, skills, and practices that lead to maintaining respect and protection of their bodies. The developmental focus is health, improved fine and gross motor skills, and body awareness.

Socially - The developmental focus is on social skills and relating to the world around them. This focus allows children to play, socialize, learn appropriate behavior, build empathy, and develop impulse control.

Spiritually - The developmental focus is learning that Jesus is God and that He loves everybody. Children learn that the Bible is God’s Word, how and why we pray, how to serve others, to be good stewards and to be Christ-like in all we do.

“People talk about reading, writing and arithmetic being the basics. Those are very complex processes and

have to be based on the basics, you have to have the basics first, then you can do what people call the

basics. The number one basic for everyone on this planet is wonder. Children are born with it. You have to

protect the toddler from themselves. They’re so filled with wonder, wanting to know everything on this

planet. It’s here. It’s a thing that we have to keep alive that we don’t. I’m stunned when I travel, when I watch

people, not to be curious about everything that there is.”

Bev Bos

Founder of Roseville Community Preschool and

outstanding proponent of child-centered preschool education

http://www.agapeschools.com/

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APPROACHES

Neighborhood Christian Center provides a natural environment that fosters a love of learning, encourages

wonder, discovery, creativity, risk-taking and self-expression. A hands on child-center based learning

promotes individual growth and development, raises self-esteem, and builds autonomy and confidence. In

each classroom, children can develop self-initiative that will enable them to make smart choices to build

strong character development. We foster a personal relationship with God, our Creator and Lord, through

daily Bible stories, songs, and prayers. Our environments are *ECERS-R driven and our milestones assessments

are **DRDP. Our program sets a solid foundation for continued learning and success.

* ECERS-R: An environmental rating system for Early Childhood Education More information available at: http://ers.fpg.unc.edu

** DRDP: An observation of the developmental milestones of each child More information available at: http://www.cde.ca.gov

NCC’s EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATION

Executive Director: Ms. Graciela Marques-Hahn

Program Director: Ms. Jessica Fraser (B1, B2 & B3)

Program Director: Ms. Grace Baek (B3, B4 & Edible Yard)

NCC’s STAFF

All Neighborhood Christian Center administrators, teachers, and caregivers are selected to serve as nurturing Christian role models. They are trained and certified as early childhood educators. Staff are required to meet and maintain all early childhood education courses as mandated by the state and NCC requirements. Our culturally diverse staff help create an enriching environment representing over 17 cultures. In addition, many hold degrees including Associate of Arts, Bachelors, Masters, Doctorates, and other Professional Certifications. Our Staff are Health & Safety, CPR, and First Aid certified. They are required to keep credentials current including maintaining their California Child Development Permit. Our Program Directors work directly to mentor and guide all of our staff to achieve their personal caregiving, facilitating and teaching goals. This is an ongoing process as individuals and as Building teams. Team-teaching provides great support and exposes children to a variety of teaching styles. NCC is blessed to have many teachers who have served for over ten years.

Investing in Staff has been a proven record at NCC to directly contribute to the positive and challenging learning of every child. Parents may contribute to NCC’s “Staff Enrichment Fund” which helps our staff pay for ongoing professional development. In addition our Annual NCC Foundations Gala & Auction Night held in the early spring is a fundraiser for the staff development fund. All donations are 100% tax deductible. Please make checks payable to NCC and add “Staff Enrichment Fund” in the memo. (Tickets for the NCC Foundations Gala & Auction Night go on sale in August).

NCC AS A GREEN CAMPUS

NCC is a green campus which makes healthy choices for ourselves and our planet. Our goal is to reduce our

carbon footprint* and to show children, staff, families, community and the world how we can live responsibly

on Earth. *A carbon footprint is the total amount of greenhouse gases produced by human activity.

NCC is a re-certified “Bay Area Green Business” since 2012 and has received an “Acterra Award for

Sustainability.” That means that NCC has been recognized for our leadership in achieving all three pillars of

sustainability: people, planet and profit. A special category was created for this little preschool and closed

with the granting of the award: NCC Acterra Award Winner 2014.

http://ers.fpg.unc.edu/node/324

http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/cd/ci/documents/drdp2015preschool.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89jmGvJhbgA&feature=youtu.be

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The following steps are daily practices that are incorporated by NCC as good stewards of our God given

precious resources:

We eat fruits and vegetables and drink 1% milk twice a day with snack (People).

We teach healthy eating habits with a focus on local and organic produce while teaching others locally

and around the world to do the same. (People/Planet).

We raise funds for and support educational programs in remote places to make sustainable choices.

(People/Planet)

We accept donations to support green education locally and around the world (Planet/Profit).

We compost all green kitchen scraps along with coffee grinds from the local coffee shop. This

compost, along with our worm droppings and chicken manure, is used in our Edible Yard (Planet).

We grow and harvest organic fruit, herbs, and vegetables from our own Edible Yard (Planet).

We collect and re-use our grey water from handwashing for watering our trees and ornamental

bushes (Planet/Profit).

We utilize discarded fruit tree clippings to grow our own fruit orchard (Planet).

NCC does use green certified pesticides in our Edible Yard. However, pest control is required on

occasion and we notify parents and staff whenever this is necessary, even if they are green certified.

An MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) file is maintained on campus (Planet).

We reduce, reuse and recycle (Planet/Profit).

We accept donations to support green education locally and around the world (Planet/Profit).

We use cleaning supplies that are safe for animals and people (People/Planet).

We purchase wind and solar power from the City of Santa Clara (Planet).

We require all lunches to be green. Parents provide a daily healthy lunch in 100% reusable containers

and must include a cloth napkin/washcloth, reusable utensils, and a thermos filled with water. All non-

compostable trash is sent home (People/Planet/Profit).

NCC is an Eco-Healthy Child Care Program and remains committed to provide a healthy, safe, and green

child care setting for the children and families that we serve. www.cehn.org/ehcc

“We learn to live with less, so we may save more, so we may be more generous.” Ms. Graciela Marques-Hahn

“Every Day is Earth Day at NCC!”

Ms. Graciela Marques-Hahn

http://www.cehn.org/ehcc

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NCC “NEXT STEPS” FLOW CHART Which Program is Best for My Child to Go to Next?

Current Program: Options: Requirements:

Caterpillars (B1) Ages 2.0 – 3.0

Continue in Caterpillars Child is not 3 Years Old by 9/1/2016; Potty Training OK

Preschool Ratio 1:6

Go to Roly Polies Child is 2.8 Years Old by 9/1/2016 or Evaluated; Potty Training OK


Roly Polies (B2) Ages 2.8 – 4.0

Continue in Roly Polies Child is at Least 2.8 Years Old but Less Than 4.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; Potty Training OK

Preschool Ratio 1:6/1:8

Go to AM Dragonflies Child is 3.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

Go to PM Dragonflies Child is 3.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

Go to Butterflies Child is 4.0 Years Old and Not Yet Entering Kindergarten by 9/1/2016*; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**


Dragonflies (B5)

Ages 3.0 – 5.0

Continue in Dragonflies Child is 3.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

PM Dragonflies (B5)

Ages 3.0 – 5.0

Go to PM Dragonflies Child is 3.0 Years Old & Not Yet Entering Kindergarten by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

Pre-Kindergarten Ratio 1:8/1:12

Go to Butterflies Child is 4.0 Years Old & Not Yet Entering Kindergarten by 9/1/2016*; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

Go to Fireflies Child is 4.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**


Butterflies (B4) Ages 4.0 – 5.0

Continue in Butterflies Child is 4.0 Years Old & Not Yet Entering Kindergarten by 9/1/2016*; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

Transitional K Ratio 1:9/1:12

Go to Fireflies Child is 4.0 Years Old by 9/1/2016; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**


Fireflies (B3) Ages 4.0 – 1

st Grade

Ratio 1:9/1:12

Continue in Fireflies Child is 4.0 Years Old & Not Yet Entering Kindergarten by 9/1/2016*; MUST Be Fully Self-Sufficient and Evaluated for Readiness**

(Intermediate K, Kindergarten & Advanced K)

Graduate From NCC and Go to “Big School”

Ready to Enter Kindergarten or First Grade – Fully Tested and Verified for Readiness

*Exceptions: DOB 9/2 – 12/2 – Evaluation Required **Fully Self-Sufficient: Child is fully potty trained and comfortable caring for themselves

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AVAILABLE OPTIONS FOR 2016-2017

KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS

Fireflies Program (B3):

Intermediate Kindergarten, Kindergarten and Advance Kindergarten Programs

Ages: 4.0 by September 1, 2016 through entering First Grade

Ratio is 1:9 / 1:12

MUST be Fully Potty-Trained and Self-Sufficient Available Schedules:

Monday through Friday, Part-Time, 8:10 am to 2:30 pm (Mandatory Minimum Schedule)

Monday through Friday, Full-Time, 6:30 am to 6:00 pm

Enrollment in this program will consist of our returning I-K (2015-2016 school year) students who will be in our Kindergarten or Advance K groups. The remaining spaces will be granted to students aged 4.0 years by 9/1/2016. All Students will be pre-tested for social, emotional and academic readiness. The afternoon students rotate into B4 for full sensory Arts, Music, Drama, Dance, and Culinary Experiences. Students in this class are evaluated the first six weeks of school and placed in three ability groups:

a. Intermediate Kindergarten – Prepares Students for Kindergarten b. Kindergarten – Prepares Students for First Grade c. Advance Kindergarten – Prepares Students for First Grade

Some students, depending on their advancement, are currently working on First Grade reading and math. Students in this class must be ready to sit in a traditional school-learning environment for ¼ of a day. We use a variety of teaching styles and materials to create a multi-sensory experience. Other traditional curriculum materials are also used such as: The Saxon Curriculum is used for Language, Math and NCC’s “Hands-On” curriculum for sustainable Science. Quarterly evaluations are shared during a Parent/Teacher conference. Chinese is the foreign language taught once per week. Butterflies Program (B4):

Transitional Kindergarten Program

Ages: 4.0 by September 1, 2016 o If birthday is between 9/2 and 12/2, exceptions will be made with testing

Ratio is 1:9 / 1:12


Monday through Friday, Part-Time, 8:10 am to 2:30 pm (Mandatory Minimum Schedule)

Monday through Friday, Full-Time, 6:30 am to 6:00 pm This program helps to prepare students for Kindergarten with a high emphasis on the Arts for a full sensory program including Arts, Fine Arts, Music, Drama, Dance, and Culinary experiences in a developmentally correct environment in both indoor and outdoor classrooms. One hour of the day (1:20 pm to 2:20 pm) they transition to B3 where they are introduced to Science, Language and Math in a multi-sensory hands-on learning environment. For the past 35 years, children in these programs have been prepared for Kindergarten. If they are not ready because of development, our staff will speak about development with the parents during the quarterly reviews for Parent/Teacher or more often if necessary. Chinese is the foreign language taught once per week. PM Middle Eastern Arts Class (B3 & B4): (This program has been put on hold while we are recreating the curriculum. It will restart in the winter Quarter.) (T & TH)This program will introduce children to the Middle Eastern Culture through the Music, Dance, Stories, Fine Arts and the Culinary Experiences. This area of the world is so rich with incredible art experiences. We are blessed to have an incredible Middle Eastern program to share with your children.

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FIREFLIES / BUTTERFLIES 2016 – 2017 DAILY SCHEDULE

TIME FIREFLIES (B3) BUTTERFLIES (B4)

6:30 – 8:00 Good Morning in B5 Good Morning in B5 8:00 – 8:20 Free Play (Small Yard) Free Play (Small Yard) 8:20 – 8:30 Transition to Edible Yard Transition to Edible Yard

8:30 – 10:00 OUTDOOR CLASSROOM TIME OUTDOOR CLASSROOM TIME Open-Ended Play Open-Ended Play Open Snack (12 at a Time in G2K) Open Snack (12 at a Time in G2K) Science Discovery (by Assigned Group) Science Discovery (by Assigned Group)

8:30 – 9:00 W: Chinese Language in B4 W: Chinese Language in B4 10:00 – 10:15 Transition to B3 Transition to B4 10:15 – 11:15 AM COGNITIVE TIME IN B3 AM COGNITIVE TIME IN B4 10:15 – 10:50 M: Science M: HAW Art / Drama / Music &

Movement / Gardening T: Language T: HAW Art / Drama / Music & Movement / Gardening

W: Small Group W: Small Group 10:50 – 11:30 W: Chapel W: Chapel

Th: Language Th: HAW Art / Drama / Music & Movement / Gardening F: Math F: HAW Art / Drama / Music & Movement / Gardening

11:15 – 11:30 Small Group (Bible, Prayer & Missions) Small Group (Bible, Prayer & Missions) 11:30 – 12:15 Lunch Time Lunch Time 12:15 – 1:00 Edible Yard (No Sandbox) Edible Yard (No Sandbox) 1:00 – 1:15 Transition to B4 Transition to B3 1:15 – 2:15 PM COGNITIVE TIME IN B4 PM COGNITIVE TIME IN B3

M: HAW Art / Drama / Music & M: Science Movement / Gardening T: HAW Art / Drama / Music & T: Language Movement / Gardening

No Switching W: Small Group W: Small Group On Wednesday’s W: Board Games in B3 W: Board Games in B4

Th: HAW Art / Drama / Music & Th: Language Movement / Gardening F: HAW Art / Drama / Music & F: Math Movement / Gardening

2:15 – 2:30 Part Timers Transition to B3 Part Timers Transition to B4 2:30 – 2:45 Part Timers: Say Goodbye Part Timers: Say Goodbye

Full Timers: Small Group Story Time in B4 Full Timers: Small Group Story Time in B3 2:45 – 3:05 Snack Time in B4 Snack Time in B3 3:05 – 4:15 Combined Outdoor Play in Small Yard Combined Outdoor Play in Small Yard 3:05 – 4:15 F: KFC in Kasimmavik / B4 F: KFC in Kasimmavik / B4 4:15 – 5:15 SMALL GROUP COGNITIVE TIME SMALL GROUP COGNITIVE TIME

Tipi / Lego Play / Gardening Tipi / Lego Play / Gardening 5:15 – 5:25 Clean Up and Transition to B3 Clean Up and Transition to B3 5:15 – 5:25 F: Clean Up and Transition to B4 F: Clean Up and Transition to B4 5:25 – 6:00 Story Time and Goodbye Time in B3 Story Time and Goodbye Time in B3 5:25 – 6:00 F: Story Time and Goodbye Time in B4 F: Story Time and Goodbye Time in B4

B3/B4 Daily Schedule 2016-2017/pw Updated: 7/25/2016

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PRE-KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS

AM Dragonflies Program (B5):

Ages: 3.0 – 5.0 by September 1, 2016

Ratio is 1:8 / 1:12


5 Days (Monday – Friday): o Full Time (6:30 am - 6:00 pm) o Part-Time (9:00 am - 3:00 pm) o Half-Day (9:00 am – 12:00 pm)

3 Days: (Monday, Wednesday and Friday): o Full Time (6:30 am - 6:00 pm) o Half-Day (9:00 am – 12:00 pm)

2 Days: (Tuesday and Thursday): o Full Time (6:30 am - 6:00 pm) o Half-Day (9:00 am – 12:00 pm)

Enrollment age for this program is 3.0 years old before September 1, 2016 and is potty-trained and fully self-sufficient. This morning and full-time program will allow for flexible schedules of 2, 3 or 5 days per week. The curriculum will include Handwriting Without Tears, Jelic, and ZooPhonics, Music & Movement, Hands Around the World, Gardening, and Science Discovery. This program helps prepare children for Kindergarten. American Sign Language is interwoven and Spanish is the foreign language taught once per week. Title 22 requires all students staying after 12:00 pm to have a rest period. Dragonflies rest period is 1:00 – 2:45 pm PM Dragonflies Program (B5):

Ages: 3.0 – 5.0 by September 1, 2016

Ratio is 1:8 / 1:12

MUST be Fully Potty-Trained and Fully Self-Sufficient Available Schedules:

5 Days (Monday – Friday) Half-Day (1:30 – 6:00 pm) Enrollment age for this program is 3.0 years old before September 1, 2016, is potty-trained and fully self-sufficient. This afternoon program is Monday-Friday, 1:30 - 6:00 pm. This program uses the Outdoor Classroom: The curriculum will include Handwriting Without Tears, Jelic, and ZooPhonics, Music & Movement, Hands Around the World, Gardening, Native American Living, and Science Discovery. No nap is given and children must have eaten lunch before attending. This program helps prepare students for Kindergarten.

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PRE-SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Roly Polies Program (B2):

Ratio – 1:6/1:8 Available Schedules:




Enrollment age for the Roly Polies program is 2.8 years old by September 1, 2016. Curriculum includes an introduction to Zoophonics, which comprises Language, Culture, Environmental Science, Gardening, Art, Self Help Skills, and Potty Training. The Dance, Drama, and Music teachers will rotate into their classroom. American Sign Language is interwoven and Spanish is the foreign language taught once per week. Caterpillars Program (B1):

Ratio – 1:6 Available Schedules:




Enrollment age for the Caterpillars program is 2.0 – 3.0 years old. The program is structured to provide an environment that allows children to become autonomous and mature in their social and emotional skills while gently introducing academic concepts through play. Our low teacher to student ratio and daily routines are aimed to serve students according to their developmental needs, provide opportunities to be autonomous, and create special friendships with teachers and peers. American Sign Language is interwoven and Spanish is the foreign language taught once per week. PM Caterpillars (B1) & PM Roly Polies Programs (B2):

“Let’s Play Time”

Available Schedules:

5 Days (Monday – Friday) (4:00 – 6:00 pm) *All buildings weave in American Sign Language throughout the day. If you have any further questions about where your child fits into these programs please email the Program

Director who overseas your program of choice. Ms. Jessica Fraser (B1, B2, & B5) [email protected];

Ms. Grace Baek (B3, B4, and Edible Yard) [email protected]



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NOTE: Please Refer to “Why they are ‘Just Playing’” Article on Page 29

“If it hasn’t been in the hand...and the Body.... It can’t be in the Brain!”

Bev Bos

(Bev Bos is the founder and director of the Roseville Community Preschool.

She is known among CE educators as “the mother of natural learning.”

NCC has modelled their environment after her philosophy.Vimeo.com/bevbos)

“It is not our job to get children ready for school, but to get schools ready for children.”

Docia Zavitkovsky, Author

(Docia Zavitkovsky is a tireless advocate for recognition of early childhood play as the foundation for a

rich and satisfying life. She was our beloved early childhood educator and leader for over 60 years)

“Our definition of belonging for young children is a place where they feel comfortable enough to play

without having to look over their shoulders seeking approval or dodging disapproval, to explore

without fear, to redefine their space, to use materials to create a personal sense of order, patterns, and

structure.”

Staff of Roseville Community Preschool

Weekly Chapel

On Wednesdays, all programs participate in a weekly chapel service. We make it age-appropriate and very child-friendly. We have a time of worship, singing familiar songs that typically involve hand motions or movements. Worship is followed by a short multi-media story, reinforcing Biblical concepts and character development. NCC collaborates with the Peace Lutheran Church and uses their church building during chapel time. Offering is collected weekly during small group time before chapel to share with their program mission. A prayer will be held over their collection during chapel time.

OUTDOOR PLAY CLASSROOM OVERVIEW: EDIBLE YARD

Designed through the imaginations of NCC Alumni and students.

Gardening

The Edible Yard is an ongoing outdoor experience of growing your own food in an organic way. Children participate with gardening by: planting seeds, nurturing the growth of plants, learning what a weed is, how and why to kill it, and how to dispose of it. They harvest fruit of their labor by enjoying home grown vine ripened fruit. Solar “cooking” allows us to make roll-ups, jams, smoothies, juicing, and ground corn. Fruit and vegetable leftovers are sorted to be fed to our chickens and worms (worm bins) or are composted.

“G2K” (Ground to Kitchen)

Our own unique “G2K: From the Ground to the Kitchen” curriculum introduces children to the food values of each fruit, vegetable, and grain, and their effect on our bodies and environment. Children participate in working through a recipe and then tasting it. Farmer’s Markets’, store bought organics, plus some non-organics are supplemented when necessary. Native American Village & Tipi

This special area is primarily dedicated to teaching children about the indigenous people of the USA and how they used to successfully live in harmony with land and animals. They will have hands-on resources and visuals of many indigenous cultures. In the Native American Village and Tipi, there are different areas that will give them tangible visuals that will stimulate all 5 senses. This program is limited to PM Dragonflies, Butterflies, and Fireflies, August – May, and to all programs during summer.

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Science Discovery

NCC’s Science Discovery area exposes children to a variety of hands-on science experiments and manipulatives. Children will learn different science principles through play and tangible experiences that involve all five senses. Kasimmavik Amphitheatre* Kasimmavik means a gathering place of worship/dance. This stage is dedicated to giving an area for children to develop the fine arts and use it to celebrate music, dance, drama and culture. This area is the daily meeting place for our Summer Enrichment Camp and early fall chapel. This Theater was designed by one of our Alumni: Fidel Grandez, who at the age of 4 designed a “Flintstone Theater.” *Dedicated to the Inuit Tribes of Alaska Buena Vista: Chicken Coop/Greenhouse

Real live chickens are a part of our center and have been named by the students! Classes are doing their part in taking care of their chickens by giving them their vegetable and fruit peels from their snack, as well as composting the excess peels in compost bins for later use in our soil to feed and nourish plants. This area is used for various activities including preparing seed and soil for planting, and as a chicken run in the downslope vineyard. Art Corner

Located in the Kasimmavik Area where children can freely create while choosing a variety of materials. Grassy Hill

A large grass area is open for multiple activities, including group games. Waterslides and picnics are added during the warmer months. NCC Village/Train

Created by our students to represent some of the village life experiences their parents went through. Sandbox

We have a traditional sandbox where children can play and use their imagination as they explore, discover, build and create sandcastles and cakes. OUTDOOR PLAY CLASSROOM OVERVIEW: PLAY YARD

Wacky Garden

A wild growing section of our small play yard located next to B3 which allows each child’s imagination to flow in endless ways. Climbing Structure

The only piece of equipment which is considered traditional to the play yard. Ages 2 years through 12 years may use this structure. Playscapes

Whether sailing in our seafaring ships or creating sound in our “Music in the Kitchen”, the imagination just flows. Bicycle/Tricycle Loop/Ball Area

These large motor development spaces give each child room to develop with many options.

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NCC ADMISSIONS POLICY

Tuition and Fees

NCC bills all tuition via Kinderlime’s Tuition Management Service via automatic debit from your checking account or credit card. All families are required to enroll in the auto-debit system. The associated fees are as follows:

Direct Debit via Checking Account: $1.95 per transaction

Credit Card Payments: $1.95 per transaction + 2.95% credit

Tuition payments are processed on the 28th day of each month and if the 28th falls on a weekend or holiday, payments will be processed on the prior school day. Tuition is due no later than 6:00 pm on the 3rd of each month and if the 3rd falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are due no later than 6:00 pm on the prior school day.

Agape Schools, Inc. will not accept checks without parent’s name and address pre-printed on the check. The child’s full name must be listed in the memo line on ALL PAYMENTS. $45 will be charged for all returned payments.

Your first month’s tuition, Registration Fee, and Summer Enrichment Activities Fee are NOT REFUNDABLE for any reason.

Change of Status

If a change in attendance or schedule is necessary, a “Change of Status Request Form” must be picked up and returned to the office for approval (Example: If a change in schedule must take place during the month of May, you must fill out and submit a “Change of Status Request Form” no later than the end of April). Although, in most circumstances, change of status/schedule is approved, it is not always guaranteed upon request. We must consider factors of availability, waiting list, ratio, etc. You will be notified within 48 hours whether that change is approved or not approved.

Withdrawals

Students withdrawing from NCC MUST submit the following to the office one calendar month prior to students last day (E.G. Students last day is May 31st; form and payment are due April 30th):

NCC’s “Last Month Notice” Form

Last Month’s Tuition will be billed via auto-debit immediately upon submission of “Last Month Notice”

NCC’s Registrar will verify that the 16 volunteer hour requirement has been met

Absences

Please notify the office regarding your students absence/illness by 10:00 am by calling (408) 984-3418 or

emailing [email protected] and your child’s Master Teacher. Absences are not refunded.

Admission Forms

All admission forms and required documents must be completed and up to date in your child’s file a minimum of 7 DAYS BEFORE their start date. Parents/Guardians are responsible for keeping the office administration informed of any changes to these records (including Emergency Contacts, Pick-Up Authorization List, medical information, etc.). (Identification with regard to students on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, nationality, or ethnicity is required to be kept on file by the state of California.)

Visits and Conferences

Although each family has the explicit right to see their student any time of the day, we ask for your cooperation to protect the integrity of the program. If a parent/guardian requests a consultation with your students Master Teacher or the Executive Director, an appointment must be arranged. Notes may be written in the “Parent Communication Book” located in your child’s classroom. Confidential notes may be emailed or dropped off in the office. Inquiries regarding enrollment, management, policies, and procedures, or parent and public relations, should be addressed to the office administration.


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NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

Neighborhood Christian Center/Agape Schools, Inc. admits students of any age, race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs." Office Hours and Contact Information

Office hours are from 8:00 am - 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

Physical Address:

887 Pomeroy Avenue Santa Clara, CA 95051

Office Phone: (408) 984-3418 Fax: (408) 246-5572 Website: www.myncc.net Email: [email protected] Facility License #: Preschool: 434407992

Daycare: 434407991 Neighborhood Christian Center is a Ministry of Agape Schools Inc., dba: Neighborhood Christian Schools (NCS);

A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Religious Corporation / Tax ID #: 94-275-2656 / www.agapeschools.com

NCC Campus Map

http://www.myncc.net/



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NCC 2016 - 2017 ANNUAL CALENDAR

August 2016

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

September 2016

S M T W T F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

October 2016

S M T W T F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

26/30 24/31 25 26 27 28 29

November 2016 S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30

December 2016 S M T W T F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30 31

January 2017 S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 7

8 9 10 11 12 13 14

15 16 17 18 19 20 21

22 23 24 25 26 27 28

29 30 31

February 2017 S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4

5 6 7 8 9 10 11

12 13 14 15 16 17 18

19 20 21 22 23 24 25

26 27 28

March 2017

S M T W T F S

1 2 4 5

5 6 7 8 9 11 12

12 13 14 15 16 18 19

19 20 21 22 23 25 26

26 27 28 29 30 31

April 2017

S M T W T F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23/30 24 25 26 27 28 29

May 2017 S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6

7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16 17 18 19 20

21 22 23 24 25 26 27

28 29 30 31

June 2017 S M T W T F S

1 2 3

4 5 6 7 8 9 10

11 12 13 14 15 16 17

18 19 20 21 22 23 24

25 26 27 28 29 30

July 2017 S M T W T F S

1

2 3 4 5 6 7 8

9 10 11 12 13 14 15

16 17 18 19 20 21 22

23/30 24/31 25 26 27 28 29

IMPORTANT DATES Aug 8 First Day of 2016-17 School Year Feb 20 Presidents Day – NCC Closed

KEY NCC CLOSED Limited Childcare First/Last Day

August 2017

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5

6 7 8 9 10 11 12

13 14 15 16 17 18 19

20 21 22 23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31

Sept 5 Labor Day – NCC Closed Apr 3-7 B3 SAT Testing

Oct 3-28 Parent-Teacher Conferences April 10-14 Easter Break – NCC Closed

Oct 4 NCC’s 35th Birthday Apr 17-28 Parent-Teacher Conferences

Oct 7 Staff Development Day – NCC Closed (B3, B4 & B5)

Nov 24-25 Thanksgiving Break – NCC Closed May 1-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences

Dec 12- Jan 23

Current Student Re-Enrollment and Sibling Enrollment begins for Fall 17-18

(B1 & B2)

Dec 19-21 Limited Care Days – Signup Required May 29 Memorial Day – NCC Closed

Dec 22-30 Christmas Break – NCC Closed May 31 NCC Aloha Day

Jan 2 Classes Resume Jun 1-Jul 26 Summer Enrichment Camp

Jan 3-27 Parent-Teacher Conferences Jul 3-4 Independence Day – NCC Closed

Jan 16 MLK Jr. Day – NCC Closed Jul 27-Aug 4 Staff Orientation – NCC Closed

Jan 23-31 Wait List Enrollment Begins Aug 7 First Day of 2017-18 School Year

Feb 1 Open Enrollment for new Students Begins

NCC Annual Calendar 2016-2017/pw Updated: 8/24/2016

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NCC 2016 - 2017 EVENTS CALENDAR

AUGUST 2016 8 First Day of 2016-2017 School Year

15 B1 Back to School Night

16 B2 Back to School Night

17 B5 (AM and PM) Back to School Night

18 B3 & B4 Back to School Night

29-31 Child ID Forms Compliance

SEPTEMBER 2016 7

Fall Class Photos

10 NCC’s Green School Online Forum

14-19 ‘Lil Angels Individual Portraits

23 St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital Trike-a-Thon*

28 NCC Missions Day

OCTOBER 2016 3-28 Parent-Teacher Conferences

4 NCC’s 35th Birthday Celebration

3-6 Fire Prevention Week

7 Staff Development Day – NCC Closed

14 Science Discovery Day*

31 Harvest Parade

NOVEMBER 2016

11 Veteran’s Day Parade Field Trip*

Downtown San Jose (B3 & B4 Only)

DECEMBER 2016 3 Christmas Presentation*

8-9 Santa Visits NCC

12 Current Student Re-Enrollment and

Sibling Enrollment Begins for 2017-2018

JANUARY 2017 3-27 Parent-Teacher Conferences

2 NCC Classes Resume

10 B1 & B2 Next Steps Info Night

11 B5 (AM and PM) Next Steps Info Night

12 B3 & B4 Next Steps Info Night

27 Lunar Year Parade

23-31 Wait List Enrollment Begins

FEBRUARY 2017 1-28 B3 & B4 Assessment

1 Open Enrollment for New Students Begins

11 NCC Gala & Auction Event

TBA Open House (General Public)

MARCH 2017 14-16 Cap & Gown / Spring Portraits

29 Spring Class Photos

APRIL 2017 3-7 Staff Appreciation Week

3-7 B3 SAT Testing

6-7 Easter Egg Hunt & Celebrations

17-28 Parent-Teacher Conferences (B3, B4 & B5)

MAY 2017 1-12 Parent-Teacher Conferences (B1 & B2)

+ 5 HAW Day (Hands Around the World)*

13 NCC Family Day @ Gilroy Gardens

17 PM B5 Promotion Ceremony*

18 B1 Promotion Ceremony*



24 B4 Promotion Ceremony)*

25 B3 Graduation Day*

31 NCC Aloha Day

JUNE 2017 1 First Day of Summer Enrichment Camp

10 Green Kids Conference*

JULY 2017 5-26 Summer Enrichment Camp Activities

AUGUST 2017

7 First Day of 2017-2018 School Year

KEY

* Parent Volunteers Needed for Event

- Parent Conferences

+ Student Assessments

^ New Re-Enrollment

TBA Specific Date “To Be Announced”

NCC Events Calendar 2016-2017/pw Updated: 08/24/2016

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DROP OFF / PICK UP POLICY Digital Attendance - Sign In / Sign Out

The California Code of Regulations, Title 22, administered by CDSS, requires all children to be signed in and out every day. There is a $45 fine for every missed sign in or out occurrence for each child. You may not drop off or pick up your child without signing them in or out each day. NCC uses Kinderlime, a customized App for attendance and recordkeeping that replaces manual signing in and out. Each parent and up to 8 additional authorized caregivers is issued a unique PIN # to track who has dropped off and picked up your child. It is against the law to not sign your child in and out every day. There is a $45 fine for each failed sign in or out for each child. Kinderlime provides accurate record keeping and constant information storage. This also simplifies the Master Teacher’s record keeping, hereby allowing them more focused time with the class while giving the office very accurate records in any increments it needs.

FAQ’s to help you better understand the process: 1. Where do we sign in?

The device used is an iPod Touch mounted at the sign-in counter inside each classroom near the inside entrance door of your building. (PM Dragonflies have their iPod Touch mounted in the Office where they will sign-in/out instead of the classroom)(Building 3 and Building 4 MUST sign in using the Office iPod after 8:10 am). All other families may use the office iPod in the interest of saving time or if you forgot to sign in or out in the classroom. 2. What do I type in?

Your unique PIN # which has been assigned to you. Each parent has their OWN unique PIN # for their child(ren) – every child MUST be signed in and signed out. It will record the date, time, and WHO signed in/out, all in ONE ENTRY of your unique PIN #. 3. Is everyone on my child’s pick-up authorization list issued their own PIN #?

Yes, the registrar has e-mailed the unique PIN number for every person on the pick-up authorization list to parents of each family. If they have not received their unique PIN # from you, they can receive it from the office when they come. Each authorized person must verify their identity with photo ID in the office prior to picking up your child. 4. How many PIN #’s are assigned to my child?

Each child will be able to utilize no more than 10 PIN #’s. (Matched with 2 parents and 8 people from the pick-up authorization list, no more than 10 #’s per student.)

DIRECTIONS TO SIGN YOUR CHILD IN AND OUT OF KINDERLIME:

1. Press “ENTER PIN” 2. Enter your unique PIN # and press “OK” 3. Verify that the child’s name and picture is your child, then press “DROP OFF CHILD” or “PICK-UP

CHILD” under your child’s name and wait for the application to confirm your entry. 4. Press “Done” on the upper left hand corner when you are finished. 5. FOR SIBLINGS: Parents and guardians of siblings share the same PIN for all children. Remember

to press the "Drop Off"/"Pick Up" button under each child’s name.

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5. What if I want to add someone?

Complete the Pick-up Authorization Form in your child(ren)’s file in the Office. The PIN # for your newly added guardian will be emailed to you. All newly added persons must come to the office to show ID and the Office will help them sign-in. 6. What if I no longer want that person to pick-up my child?

As soon as you remove them from the Pick-up Authorization Form in the office with your signature and date, their information and PIN # will be deleted from the system. If/when you return them to the list they will be assigned a new #. 7. May I give that Pin # to someone else?

NO! ALL individuals without a PIN # must stop in the office. Your PIN # is unique to you alone. It may not be used by anyone else. We will block its use if it has been compromised. Children may not sign in/out! DO NOT GIVE YOUR CHILD YOUR CODE! 8. Will you still verify physical ID?

YES! The staff caring for your child will still remain responsible for identifying the receiving and release of your child. 9. What if the device does not work properly?

If the device malfunctions, please proceed to the office to sign in or out. In the event of an outage, we have emergency sign in and sign out sheets for that day located in our Office. It is the responsibility of each parent/guardian dropping off or picking up your child to complete the sign in & out process. A “Failed Sign In or Out” Fee will be charged for each occurrence. 10. Do agency children use this device or the traditional sheets assigned by their agency?

For now, the agency assigned sign in/out sheets will be used in addition to the iPod. Perhaps as we work with them, they will allow a copy of the record sheet to be attached to theirs, but for now agency sponsored children must use the iPod and their own agency assigned sign in/out sheet. 11. Will this Device/Program save me time or cost me time?

This program has already proven itself to NCC, saving time and minimizing backup. The Device is installed on the counter near the door entrance. The entire code entry process takes less than 10 seconds and is completely reliable. This is a major improvement over the old paper process. 12. What do I do with a pop-up message and will it automatically sign me in/out?

Upon entering your PIN #, if a message pops up, you must take the time to read the message, then press dismiss to delete the message. You must then continue the normal process to sign your child in or out. If you fail to complete the process, your child will NOT be automatically signed in or out and you will be charged a Failed Sign-In or Failed Sign-Out Fee of $45. 13. What to do when the screen changes?

Press the home button (black circle with a white Square) to get back to the home page/desktop. Press the icon labeled “Sign In-Out” identified with a yellow outline of a clock, this will take you back to the Kinderlime “Parent Pin” page. Pick-Up Authorization

Only parents and the authorized individuals whose names and information has been added to the “Pick-Up Authorization List” in the child’s file will be able to pick up the child. NO EXCEPTIONS are made. A teacher in charge of the child during the time of pick-up must recognize the authorized individual that is picking up the child. You will be asked to show an approved photo ID (i.e. driver’s license, passport, etc.) to identify yourself if the teacher does not recognize the individual. Please consider and be prepared for this safety procedure if you know you are sending someone to pick up the child for the first time or if it is not the regular individual picking up (Minimum age of pick-up person is 14 years old).

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AM / PM Inspection

A daily inspection of each child’s health will take place before they proceed to join the class whether they are indoors or outdoors. This procedure is to be done in accordance with the Title 22 CA State regulation. Please leave an extra two to ten minutes for this process.

Drop-Off Inspection Includes:

Check child’s temperature with a digital thermometer on the forehead and/or behind the ear by a teacher or staff member

Asking child and/or parent/guardian of the child’s well-being If the morning greeting merits a further check the following may take place:

Observing the child’s eyes for dilation, redness, swelling, discharge, etc.

Checking for any cuts or scrapes

Making note of possible signs of neglect or abuse

Checking the child’s scalp for head lice

Checking for appropriate clothing

Early Drop-Off and Late Pick-Up

NCC provides a 10 minute grace period before and after your time schedule, with the exception of our PM Caterpillars and PM Roly Polies Programs (4:00 - 6:00 pm), PM Dragonflies Program (1:30 – 6:00 pm), and our Full Time Programs (6:30 am- 6:00 pm). Any drop offs or pickups outside of the 10-minute grace period for your time schedule are considered extended care and will result in a $17.00 fee per hour. Dropping off too early and picking up late affects the teacher to child ratio in the class.

Early Pick-Up

Please notify the office if you need to pick up your child early. For B3 & B4, students will be brought to the office for pick up between 8:20 am and 2:30 pm. If your child must be picked up early for medical appointments or any other personal reasons, parents/guardians must notify the office ahead of time. Regular sign out procedures must be followed during early pick-up. Although NCC allows you access to your child at any time, we ask that you not pick-up and drop-off during naptime (12:45 to 3:00 pm) so not to disturb other children who are napping. Please pick-up before or after naptime.

Tardies (Specific for B3 and B4) These classes are preparing students for “BIG School”. As per California State Guidelines for TK/K and to preserve the integrity of the programs, your child needs to be on time. Parents/guardians are asked to refrain from being late. If a child from B3 or B4 arrives later than 8:20 am, parents MUST come to the office first to sign in and drop off their child(ren). An office staff member will perform the AM Inspection and walk your child to class. Chronic tardiness will require an appointment with the Director.

8:15 am – First Whistle: Clean up

8:20 am – Second Whistle: Line up and line walks to class

Extended Care Rates

Extended Care rates start 10 minutes after the end of each program. A full hour care is charged at $17.00 an hour thereafter and is not prorated after:

Half-Day: 12:10 pm

Part-Time (B3 & B4): 2:40 pm

Part-Time (B1, B2 & B5) 3:10 pm

Late Pick-Up Charges

Late pick-up fee start at 6:01 pm and is charged based on the official sign out time in Kinderlime’s records:

Late pick-up from 6:01 – 6:14 pm will be charged $2.00 per minute, per child



Late pick-up from 7:00 and later will be charged $10.00 per minute, per child

After 6:10 pm, parents/guardians may pick up and sign their child out in the office, including signing the “Late Pick-Up Book.” All late fees will be charged via Kinderlime Auto-Debit. Please note that time will not be pro-rated and no exceptions/waivers will be made. Late pickups affect student to teacher ratios.

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SAFETY POLICY

Visitors and Volunteers

All visitors must check-in at the office and are not permitted to enter the classrooms without authorization. Signed-in visitors must wear a ‘Visitor Badge’ and will be accompanied by an NCC Staff Member (unless they have an enrolled NCC student). Parent Volunteers for special class/school events must also check-in at the office and must wear a “Volunteer Badge.” Parents are welcome to volunteer on site during school time as needed. Please verify with your Master Teacher or the Director. Parents may not be left alone with students. Parking Lot Safety

Drop-off/Pick-up may only be done so from Pomeroy Avenue. Quince Avenue is reserved only for NCC Staff or for volunteers and families walking or bike-riding to school. Do not use parking lots of nearby apartments and businesses surrounding NCC. Tardiness does not take precedence over safety of human beings! Everyone is responsible for each other’s safety. The best precaution is to allow time to arrive early, practice and prepare being on time, and to simply STOP and SLOW DOWN! Walk your child to the gate. Make full use of the safe pathways provided for you and your child’s safety. DO NOT CROSS THROUGH THE PARKING LOT.

FOLLOW THESE SAFETY TIPS IN THE NCC PARKING LOT:

1. Drive under 5 mph in the NCC parking lot.

2. All school zones are 25 mph.

3. Drive cautiously! Follow the direction of traffic.

a. Violators will lose parking lot privileges and will be heavily fined.

4. Do not enter parking spaces from the opposite side of traffic.

5. Hold your child’s hand when walking on the sidewalk or crossing the street. Make children walk on

the side of the adult which is furthest away from the street.

6. Do not park in the safety zones (red marked curbs or striped areas).

7. Only park in the indicated parking spaces.

8. Please be quiet in the area outside our front gate as the Lutheran High School is in session.

Gates

Our facility is secured by using locked external gates. Only previously authorized parents/guardians in child’s file are to be given the gate code. Any authorized individual who does not pick up the child on a regular basis should not be given the gate code. They may use the intercom button by the front gate and an office admin will allow them in. At that time they will need to show a photo ID (i.e., driver’s license, passport, etc.) that matches the child’s file.

Do not prop open gates at any time and always make sure the gates are securely closed behind you.

Do not open gates for anyone you do not recognize as a parent/guardian of our school. They must use the intercom to communicate with the office. This will ensure the safety of all students and staff.

FOR SAFETY REASONS, CHILDREN MAY NOT:

Open or close the gates (internal or external). Gates are only to be opened by adults on campus.

Touch the keypads

Be given the code for the gate Using Our Campus

NCC’s campus is designed for the use of currently enrolled students. To ensure safety and proper usage, parents / guardians must supervise your children at all times. Children may not play or climb the trees in front of the NCC property. Once you sign your child(ren) out, you are asked to leave the campus within 10 minutes at the end of their dismissal in consideration of the on-going programs. This is to ensure that all currently signed-in children are properly supervised by NCC Staff.

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The NCC campus closes at 6:00 pm. No families may remain on campus after 6:10 pm. This includes the benches in the play area, the picnic tables in front of B1, the sitting area outside the gates, and parking lot. Parents/guardians are required to actively supervise your child(ren) at all times. All NCC rules are to be followed. The Lutheran High School meets in the rooms adjacent to the benches outside NCC’s front gate. Please be quiet in this area at all times. (NO congregating or loitering on the benches in front of the church). Photo / Video Sharing at NCC

NCC posts pictures on our websites in addition to other publication materials. Kinderlime, allows NCC Staff to take pictures of your children and share them with you through email. It is our desire to connect families by using Kinderlime to improve our communication. Kinderlime also enables emergency notification (e.g. during black outs and power outage) to be immediately sent to you through text and email.

FAQ’s of Photo / Video Sharing

1. What is Kinderlime?

Kinderlime is a company started by parents to connect them to their child's preschool. They can enjoy and feel secure about the lives of their children while they are in preschool. One of the founders of Kinderlime is a former NCC parent.

2. How does it work?

Teacher takes photos with an iPod and tag children who are in the photo. Photos are emailed to the parents whose children are in that photo.

3. Who can take photos of child and send it to parents?

Only directors and teachers authorized by directors can take photos of your child and send them to you.

4. What are the options for photo sharing with Kinderlime app?

Kinderlime wants to connect a parent closely with their child's lives when they are in preschool. The teachers can use the photos in the following way:

a) Records child's progress through learning and behavioral milestones and keep it for the class records b) Sends some pictures in an email to parents which shows the parents their child's activities in the

school c) Shares some pictures on Facebook page of NCC (e.g. graduation ceremony) and emails

you simultaneously so that you can share those pictures with your family and friends

5. Does the school need parents’ permission to email photos through Kinderlime app?

Yes. All families are required to opt-in by initialling the photo release line item in the NCC Admissions Contract.

6. Can Kinderlime post on NCC Facebook page?

Yes, Kinderlime can optionally post on school Facebook page if the authorized teachers and directors want that photo to be on Facebook. Please see earlier question about your rights as a parent in terms of photo release of your child.

7. How much does it cost to a parent?

There is not a charge by Kinderlime for Parent Accounts however, Kinderlime may add optional services later (e.g. photo printing by parent) for which they may charge you.

8. How does the service benefit the school?

Kinderlime results in a stronger community and sharing of your child's activities with you. It also saves time in documenting the progress of children and building their portfolios.

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9. How secure is Kinderlime?

Kinderlime uses their own servers with high encryption levels of our data for communication over the internet. Kinderlime was started by parents who care about the security and privacy of children.

10. How private is Kinderlime?

Kinderlime will never share and sell your information to third parties. All the communication is private between you and NCC.

EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

Emergency and Disaster Preparedness

We have no way of knowing when an emergency or disaster will take place and the only thing we can do is to prepare efficiently. NCC has taken the following steps to prepare our students and staff for the eventuality of an emergency or disaster:

All NCC Staff are First Aid and CPR Certified and Health and Safety Trained.

Each month we have a scheduled fire and earthquake drill.

Lockdown Drills are scheduled twice a year.

Each building is equipped with a ‘CODE RED’ backpack that is supplied with emergency supplies.

We have a prepared disaster shed behind B#1 which holds water, food and blankets for each student and staff member for 5 days.

Detailed “Evacuation Plan Routes” are clearly posted in every classroom near the parent sign-in area, staff room, staff hut, adult bathrooms and the office.

Emergency Hospital

The closest hospital to NCC that we will use in any case of emergency will be Kaiser Permanente on #700 Lawrence Expressway (Corner of Homestead and Lawrence). Emergency Procedures

NCC functions by the “NCC COLOR CODE EMERGENCY PLAN”:

CODE RED: LOCKDOWN (most dangerous) / no one in or out

CODE YELLOW: PRECAUTIONARY LOCKDOWN

CODE BLUE: MEDICAL EMERGENCY

CODE ORANGE: BOMB THREAT

CODE WHITE: WEATHER EMERGENCY

CODE GREEN: ALL CLEAR

Evacuation Procedures

In any case of major earthquake or other disaster, students may have to be evacuated from their classroom. Depending on the magnitude of the incident, the school may be closed until further notice and will be in constant communication with all NCC parents/guardians of the situation. The following is NCC’s Evacuation Route Plan which is posted in every building. If you are on campus during an emergency, you MUST follow NCC Staff instructions.

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Primary Route

All students and staff will be evacuated to easement of Pomeroy (in front of The Peace Lutheran Church

Parking Lot).

Route #2 (Alternate Route)

All students and staff will be evacuated out the back gate towards Quince Street and will proceed to the

Mormon Building parking lot (across Quince St.).

Route #3 (Alternate Route)

All student and staff will be evacuated to the NCC Grassy Hill.

Emergency Notification &Student Release Policy

In severe emergency circumstances, the NCC Office will contact you through phone and SMS service. Please

keep up to date your email or text information. NCC is asking everyone to write an “Out-of-State” contact in

case of an emergency. Students will NOT be released to any individual not listed on the “Emergency Contact

Form” that is stated in the child’s file. They must show a photo ID (drivers licence, passport, etc.) to identify

themselves if they are not familiar with the staff. NCC Staff will always be the very last to leave the site in any

state of emergency or disaster until each child is released.

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WHAT TO DO WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SICK

Dealing With a Sick Child

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Benjamin Franklin

This rule of thumb is applicable to most situations in life. Parents need to be pro-active with the care of their

own child and together, we will benefit from this rule of measure. It is the parents/guardians responsibility to

check the child’s well-being before bringing them to school. Refer to the list of common symptoms of illness

as a guide.

You may not bring your child to school if your child:

Has fever with a temperature of 100+/orally or 100 on the forehead or within the past 24 hours

Has been vomiting or has had diarrhea in the last 24 hours

Has discolored mucus (with an exception of a physician’s note)

Is listless or showing signs of illness (coughing, sneezing, etc.)

Is having a difficult time comprehending their surroundings

Has an ear infection

Has meningitis or any forms of it

Has a sore throat

Head lice is found, child must be treated with ALL lice and eggs removed – Child will be inspected prior

to return to school

Children who begin to show any signs of illness (contagious or not) while under NCC care, will be taken out of

the classroom to rest in the office. Parents will be notified immediately by phone of their child’s health.

Depending on the severity of the illness, you will be asked to pick your child up and bring them home to rest.

Contagious / Communicable Diseases

The state requires a physician’s certification of good health prior to acceptance. Health regulations require

that you notify NCC immediately of any contagious diseases or serious illness in the family.

DO NOT Bring Your Child to School if They Have the Following Contagious Diseases:

H1N1 (Influenza, also commonly known as the flu)

Dysentery (Severe Diarrhea)

Hand, Foot and Mouth Disease

Pink Eye (mucus discharge from the eye) (Viral or Bacterial)

Fifth’s Disease

Chicken Pox

Measles

Mumps

Head lice/nits

Exposure Notices

Parents/Guardians are required to notify NCC immediately if their child is diagnosed with a contagious illness

or disease (as above). All parents will be notified through email with an “Exposure Notice” if a child may have

been exposed to a contagious disease and a notice will also be posted in each of the classrooms in the parent

communication area. Children exhibiting symptoms of having had the illness may be sent home and may not

return without a physician’s note stating they are not contagious.

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Returning to School

Children CANNOT return to school after a contagious or serious illness without a physicians’ written

permission stating they are no longer contagious. Children with chronic sinus infections must be sent to

school with a pocket size pack of tissues for the day and a note from their physician must be kept on file

stating the chronic illness. When your child returns to class, inform your teachers of their illness they are

recovering from so they may closely monitor their behaviours.

Medications

Medication will not be dispensed at NCC without a prescription written by a physician or authorized

instructions from the child’s parents/guardians. If your child must have their medication during school hours,

fill out a “Medication Release Form.” All medications must have a prescription label clearly stating the child’s

name and must be stored in the office “Medication Lock Box.” You must indicate special instructions to an

Office Administrator to help us effectively administer the medication. Parents/guardians MUST complete and

submit NCC’s Medication Authorization Form, located in the front office and in the front of each parent inbox

(your child’s hanging folder) in each classroom.

Required Immunizations

Up to date immunizations are required/State requirements. All students must have taken a TB assessment

and/or a TB skin test within 1 year of enrollment. Proof is required prior to attendance including a stamp of

authenticity from the doctor’s office. Children need to have these shots before they can begin child care,

kindergarten, and 7th grade.

Children entering child care should have:

Age When Enrolling: Immunizations Required:

2-3 months 1 DTaP, 1 Polio, 1 Hep B, 1 Hib



15-17 months 3 DTaP, 3 Polio, 2 Hep B, 1 MMR*, 1 Hib*

18 months—5 years 4 DTaP, 3 Polio, 3 Hep B, 1 MMR*, 1 Hib*, 1 Varicella**

* on or after first birthday. Receipt of dose up to (and including) 4 days before the birthday will satisfy the child care entry immunization requirement. **If a child had chicken pox disease and this is indicated on the Immunization Record and is indicated by the child’s physician, they meet the requirement. Write “disease” in the chicken pox date box on the blue card.

Children entering kindergarten should have:

5 DTaP (4 doses meet requirement if at least one was on or after the 4th birthday)

4 Polio (3 doses meet requirement if at least one was given on or after 4th birthday)

3 Hep B

2 MMR (1st dose on or after 1st birthday)

1 Varicella

See your child’s doctor to make sure your child’s immunization record has dates and provider’s stamp or

signature for these shots. You will need to show your child’s yellow immunization record to register your child

for child care and school.

Immunization Program

Santa Clara County Public Health Department

For more information, call (408) 937-2271

Updated: 7/2014

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Head Lice Policy

Head lice are a common exposure in human beings since recorded time. After a parent/guardian or NCC staff

notifies the office of a child’s exposure to head lice, the following procedures will take place:

DAY ONE

The child exposed to head lice and/or nits is sent home (along with the country information papers

regarding head lice treatment).

An immediate general head lice check of all NCC Staff and students is performed.

All helmets, carpets, stuffed toys, bedding, pillow cases are disinfected in all buildings.

DAY TWO

A follow-up head lice check of the exposed child before permitting into the center.

NCC has a no nit policy. All nits (eggs) have to be removed before returning to NCC.

Second general head lice check of all NCC Staff and students after 24 hours.

10 DAYS LATER

A general head lice check of all NCC Staff and Student.

DRESS CODE POLICY

** PLEASE LABEL ALL YOUR CHILDREN’S PERSONAL BELONGINGS**

Children’s Dress Code

Modest and moderately loose fitting clothing, safe for playing without restrictions.

Appropriate positive messages and logos on shirts.

Gang-related clothing are not allowed.

No caps/hats are allowed to be worn indoors (including the office and chapel).

The bill of baseball cap must be worn properly (forward facing, not backwards).

During spring and summer seasons, hat use is encouraged outside.

All shoes must have fastening straps.

All shoes must be worn outdoors, unless approved by the staff.

No flip-flops or slippers without backing/straps are allowed.

No Croc’s may be worn to NCC (They are not safe for running).

Shoulder straps must be 2 inches or wider.

No midriff showing.

Shorts must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee.

Boys Dress Code

Pants should not be sagging and worn below the hips.

Shirts must cover the abdomen.

Belts are to be held by pant belt loops.

Example of “CROCS” shoes

that are NOT ALLOWED to

be worn at NCC.

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Girls Dress Code

Skirts and dresses must be no shorter than 2 inches above the knee and/or 8 inches from floor to hem

when kneeling.

Narrow straps, back-less and halter tops are not allowed.

Tight fitting shirts are not allowed (including short shirts that show the stomach or back when arms

are raised).

Make-up is not acceptable.

No two-piece or bikini swimwear is allowed (only one-piece suits are allowed).

Accessories such as necklaces, bracelets, dangling earrings are discouraged to be worn to avoid being

lost or damaged.

Modest and moderately loose fitting clothing is to be worn.

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CHILD GUIDANCE PROCEDURES

Expectations for Classroom Behavior

“To nurture each child to be honorable, respectful, and caring citizens of this world” Graciela Marques-Hahn, NCC Executive Director

Our policy is to make our rules few and simple so that every child can understand them, and then to lovingly guide them. Through a method of positively guiding children, NCC teaches and implements the “5R’s” inside and outside the classroom.

“5 R’s”

Disciplinary Procedures

No form of corporal punishment or imprisonment is practiced at NCC nor is it permitted on our property by any person. Positive classroom control will be the primary means of behavior management. Praise and encouragement is used to promote appropriate behavior among the children. Such classroom management will proceed as follows: 1 - MINOR PROBLEM:

Staff helps the student identify good and bad choices.

2 - CHRONIC MINOR PROBLEM: An action plan is created with staff and parents.

3 - SERIOUS PROBLEM:

A meeting takes place with parents to discuss the ongoing issues:

STEP I - Teacher/Master Teacher/Child discuss problem and review steps to solutions that were not followed or resolved. An incident report is sent home and notice of possible suspension with a Director/Parent Conference. STEP II - Director/Parent Conference, incident report, and suspension from NCC. Extended days may be granted for ongoing problem. STEP III - Required withdrawal. Child who does not respond to positive classroom control and appropriate corrective measures must be required to withdrawal.

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Follow Up Correction

We are not able to provide care for child(ren) that require(s) one-on-one supervision by one or more adults. We strive to guide each child in understanding of what consequences their choices have. For example, positive choices help and negative choices hurt others/ourselves and applying the “5 R’s” (please refer to the “5R’s” diagram). Indoor and Outdoor Rules

“NCC guides students to understand the act of making choices: Make safe/good choices. Good choices help people. Bad choices hurt people.”

1. Child is not allowed to hit, kick, or by any means hurt another person.

2. Throwing rocks, dirt, or sand shall not be allowed. Only balls or Frisbees are thrown.

3. Running or playing in the halls shall be not allowed.

4. Littering is not allowed.

5. Climbing trees or playing on the garbage cans is not allowed.

6. Permission from the staff must be obtained before the child is excused from the area.

7. The restroom is not an extension of the playground. Loitering or rough playing is not allowed.

8. Children shall respect all materials belonging to the school and to others.

Accident and Incident Reports

ACCIDENT REPORTS - All accidents are reported daily and the parent of the child will receive a thorough

written report. First-aid is administered to the child if needed.

INCIDENT REPORTS - Any incident which results in an injury and/or chronic disciplinary problem will be recorded as an incident report. In the event that your child has an injury to his/her head, it is our policy to notify you immediately about the incident and the extent of the injury. Therefore, do not be alarmed if we happen to call you. To help us carry out our policy, it is imperative to keep all contact numbers up to date.

Quarterly Evaluations

B1, B2 & B5 All students are evaluated three times a year: At the end of the First Quarter (Oct.), at the end of the Second Quarter (January), and the end of the Third Quarter (April). Progress is tracked and developmental summaries are sent home. Parents may speak to or email the Master Teacher daily or set an appointment with them. In addition to the developmental summaries, parents are given a portfolio of their child’s work collected and documented twice a year. B3 AND B4 All students are evaluated three times a year: At the end of the First Quarter (Oct.), at the end of the Second Quarter (January), and the end of the Third Quarter (April). Progress is tracked and Quarterly Evaluations are sent home. Parents may speak to or email the master teacher daily or set an appointment with the master teacher. NCC students entering Kindergarten or 1st grade with Valley Christian School may apply for preferred enrollment. The programs at NCC have been created to exceed California State Standards and strive toward required acceptance into private school. Purpose for Assessments:

1. To evaluate student’s growth and development 2. To measure our curriculum and teaching staff

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Program Reports:

Program reports follow the completion of each Quarter (October/February/April).

An annual S.A.T. Test is administered in the Spring to students entering 1st grade and advanced intermediate

kindergarten students. Please make certain your child is present for the testing weeks, no make-up dates are

provided. Stanford Assessment Testing (S.A.T.) is a nationwide standardized test. Testing is to be conducted

under strict guidelines. All tests are shipped to Pearson Education for grading. Results will be provided to all

families with the final report card. All testing and Quarterly Reports are shared with the families.

B4 Butterfly students and beginning intermediate kindergarten students in B3 will be assessed with a different

tool. This test is an oral test that is individually administered. The concepts assessed are educationally

relevant concepts that children traditionally need to know to be prepared for early formal education such as

colors, letters, numbers/counting, sizes/comparison, and shapes.

“HAPPY HEALTHY ME” (NCC’s WELLNESS POLICY) Description:

Happy Healthy Me is NCC’s original curriculum that uses fruits and vegetables to teach about the Fruit of the Spirit and how to live a healthy life. Happy Healthy Me is our Bible and wellness policy. Goals:

Memorize simple scripture

Learn to respect others

Learn to treat ourselves as the special creation God intended us to be

Learn about seasonal fruits and vegetables

Taste a variety of fruits and vegetables

Learn the functions of colors of fruits and vegetables

Remember to eat 5 a day

Remember to have a rainbow on your plate

Happy Healthy Me is Interwoven Into Other Curriculum and Included in Daily Procedures

in the Following Ways:

We will choose a fruit or vegetable each month to help symbolize a fruit of the spirit. The Fruits of the

Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control

(Galatians 5:16-23).

While in the Edible Yard or during snack, the children can learn to identify a variety of fruits and

vegetables, learn to wash and prepare foods to be eaten.

Learn to bring a lunch that is prepared with 100% reusable containers.

Participate in creating compost for our own Edible Yard.

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Controlling the Germs in Our Center

To keep NCC healthy for everyone and to keep it sanitary, these are the procedures we do daily or twice or

more often, if necessary:

Our staff disinfects the desks and chairs.

Children are taught to cover their mouth with their upper arm or under their shirt while coughing or

sneezing.

Hand washing is a habit we practice after each bathroom use, before any food and after outdoor play.

(A technique we use is to teach children is to sing the “Happy Birthday Song” while washing hands,

which is the same length of time it takes to wash off all the germs).

NCC’s Nurse visits each class quarterly to review the healthy habits.

Hand Washing Policy

Scrub both sides of hands with liquid soap

Turn on faucet and scrub quickly, counting 1 – 10, then turning off faucet

Dry off with towel

Wash Hands:

When entering classroom from outdoors

After messy projects

After bathroom use

Before and after meals

Stewardship is Integrated Throughout Our Day

Caring for yourself

Caring for others

Caring for our world / environment

CLASSROOM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Napping: (SPECIFIC TO B1, B2, AND B5) An hour and a half nap is scheduled every day. Each child must bring a child-sized blanket. If you choose to bring a pillow, it must be a child-sized pillow (5x5 and approximately 3 inches thick). All blankets and pillows must be labelled with the child’s name and must fit in the plastic bins. Mats are provided in the classroom. Potty Training: (SPECIFIC TO B1 AND B2) Each child must provide their own supply of “Pull-Ups” (Training Pants) and baby wipes for the week, which will be stored in the classroom. As children are in the potty training process, they should wear clothing that can be easily removed, such as elastic bands. Avoid belts, “Onesies,” etc. All children are given the opportunity to go to the bathroom every 40 minutes or as needed and are changed every hour. Teachers keep records on the “Potty Chart” and will inform the parent/guardian of the progress of their child’s success. Extra Clothing:

Two complete sets of clothes must always be kept in a plastic bag in the child’s backpack. For the hesitant learner/non-potty trained children (B1 and B2), please bring three sets of change of clothes. Please include tops (shirts/blouses), bottoms (shorts/pants), underwear, socks, etc.

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Labeling and Lost & Found (In Each Classroom):

All students’ possessions, including jackets, hats, bags, etc., MUST be labeled with their name. Many times, children have identical articles of clothing, so this will help distinguish what belongs to whom. All unidentified clothing/belongings will be collected and donated every Friday. Sunscreen:

All parents/guardians are responsible to make sure your child is prepared for outdoor play prior to arriving at NCC, especially in hot weather conditions. Apply sunscreen to your child prior to their scheduled drop off time. All children must have their own roll-on sunblock stick, with their name clearly labelled on it, which will be left in the classroom. We recommend that all children bring a cap or hat to protect them from the sun. Toys:

We provide a wide variety of play toys at NCC, which makes it unnecessary for children to bring toys from home. Toys from home are not allowed as they may be easily lost and/or damaged. Exceptions are made on specific calendar days that may be relevant to the day’s activities. In those cases, clearly label your child’s name on each item. All items will be kept in the class’ “Share Box.” Other exceptions may be a small stuffed toy for nap-time or a ‘comfort blanket’, both of which must be kept in the classroom’s “share box” until nap-time and parent pickup. No toys may be kept in the pockets, backpack or cubbies. VIP’s (Very Important Person) of the Week:

NCC sees children as special and unique and there is no one else like them in the world. Each week, a different child is given a turn to be the VIP. This turn usually falls on or close to their birthday month (Please check the monthly calendar for your child’s turn). When It Is Your Child’s VIP Week:

On Monday, they need to bring a home-made creative poster that tells about your child. This poster may include pictures of family and friends, favorite places, hobbies, activities, cartoon character, food, etc. It can be anything your child feels they want to share with their friends. They will talk about their VIP Poster during the opening session/circle time.

They may bring a favorite snack (special fruit and/or a healthy treat) to share with the class - Please speak with their Master Teacher to approve the snack one week in advance.

They will be the line-leader.

They will lead the class during prayer.

They will also hold their classroom’s offering bucket and pray at chapel time on Wednesday.

They may bring a favorite book, song or toy (Please make sure all items are labelled and will be kept in the classroom’s “share box” until it is time to share with the class and until parent/guardian pickup).

“Being in the spotlight” is a great way to overcome shyness and build self-esteem. Sharing during opening sessions is a great way to develop language and communication skills. Children love sharing and learning about their friends and they look forward to their week of being the VIP! Birthdays:

To stay true to our “Happy Healthy Me” policy, sweet/sugary treats are not to be brought for the birthday celebrations. Every month, each class will hold one birthday celebration for all the birthday celebrants of that month. Those celebrating their birthday that month will all be honored by the class and each of them will be given a special healthy snack provided by NCC. This will be held every 1st Friday of the month during snack time. On the child’s actual birthday (or the school day closest to the day), they may bring and wear a special birthday hat that the child will decorate at home. This hat will be provided by the teachers. In addition, we ask parents to donate a special book to the class on their child’s birthday which will be shared and enjoyed by everyone. Please put a picture of your child and a written dedication inside the book.

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Meals:

Meals for the children are not provided at NCC. Breakfast should be eaten at home or at drop off before 7:45 am, they may bring their breakfast and eat at NCC. All children enrolled after 12:00 pm must bring their own well-balanced lunch to school and will eat during a scheduled 45 minute lunch time with the class. Parents are required to prepare and provide a well-balanced lunch (including a main entrée, fruit/vegetables, protein, whole-grain, nuts, etc.). When preparing your child’s lunch, consider the portion size and avoid choking hazards (cut food into bite size). Microwaves are available in each classroom to warm up lunches.

100% Reusable Containers for Lunch

To support the “Happy Healthy Me” policy and our green campus efforts, all meals are to be brought in 100% reusable containers. Please DO NOT bring pre-packaged food in your child’s lunch (such as Lunchables, snacks with wrappers, juice boxes, etc.). All meals should be in lunch containers (Tupperware, Gladware, etc.). Every child must bring their own reusable water bottle or container (Water only. No juice or milk that can spoil) that is clearly labelled with your child’s name. Cloth napkins should also be used. Classrooms show off their flag each day if they are 100% reusable.

Snacks:

We provide two snacks (AM and PM) every day for full time students. We ONLY provide fruits and vegetables and 1% milk for their daily snack (see monthly calendar posted in classrooms for detail). Our snacks are either straight from our Edible Yard or purchased commercially through our provider. Whenever possible, we will purchase organic produce and/or from local sustainable living farms. Children with Allergies:

If your child cannot drink 1% milk for medical or personal reasons, you can bring an alternative product that contains calcium like soy, rice or almond milk. It will be stored in our classroom refrigerator, labelled with your child’s name. Teachers will inform you if your supply is low or if the product has reached the expiration date. Parent/Guardian Volunteer Requirements:

Parents/Guardians are required volunteer a minimum of 16 hours per school year. The requirement for summer only students is 4 volunteer hours. This requirement remains the same regardless of length of stay. This will help to maintain the availability of the program and facility. Volunteer hours may be completed throughout the year by helping with campus events such as: St. Jude’s Trike-a-Thon, Science Discovery Day, Veterans Day, Hands Around the World Day, etc. (Please review School Event Calendar). Other volunteer opportunities include events, weekend projects at NCC, grant writing, matching funds from your employer, fund raising and projects such as making ice packs that can be completed at home which can be assigned by your Master Teacher or the Office Admin. Volunteer hours do not need to be completed consecutively and a record of your volunteer hours will be kept in your child’s building. Parents may send prior approved substitutes in their place. Teacher-Parent Communication Procedures:

For any concerns regarding your classroom, email the building Master Teacher.

For any concerns regarding enrollment, email: [email protected]

For any concerns regarding NCC’s overall program, email Graciela Marques-Hahn, Executive Director at: [email protected]

If the concern needs further attention, call the office at (408) 984-3418 to schedule an appointment with the Master Teacher and/or Executive Director.

More information is available on NCC’s website at www.myncc.net



http://www.myncc.net/

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WHY THEY ARE “JUST PLAYING” Taken from Grace Brethren Schools

When They Are Playing With SAND, They Are Learning…

MATH CONCEPTS: conservation, weight distribution, volume and mass, measuring, geometry, numbers. SCIENCE: exploring, observing, discovering LANGUAGE: comparative terms, requests for information, dialogue, name for things SYMBOLIC SKILLS: sharing, cooperating, problem solving When they are playing with WATER, they are learning…

MATH CONCEPTS: fractions, volume, weight, equality differences, measurements SCIENCE: water as a power source, water conservation, water pollution, water management, evaporation, water cycle, properties of water and objects in water LANGUAGE: vocabulary, phrases SOCIAL SKILLS: manners, sharing ART: food, paint color in water, mixing colors MOTOR SKILLS: pouring and coordinated movement When they are playing with manipulatives, they are learning…

MATH CONCEPTS: patters, ordering and sequence, number, measurement, geometry, algebra, probability, logic REPRESENTATION: using manipulatives to represent solutions and problems SELF-DIRECTION: making choices, making a plan and implementing it SCIENTIFIC METHOD: observing, making and testing predictions SOCIAL STUDIES: using available resources for building, representing structures When they are engaged in dramatic play, they are learning…

LANGUAGE: changing roles, creating a script REPRESENTATION: using language and objects to represent situations in life PROBLEM SOLVING: human interaction, causing others to play cooperatively When they are playing with BLOCKS, they are learning…

MATH/SCIENCE: size, shapes, weight, sorting, patterning, cause and effect REASONING SKILLS: problem solving, planning SOCIAL SKILLS: cooperation, negotiation, conflict resolution LITERACY: symbolic representation

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Our Foundational Belief’s

STATEMENT OF FAITH:

1. We believe that the Bible is the only infallible, verbally inspired Word of God, inerrant in the original writings. It is, therefore, our final authority in matters of faith and practice. (2 Timothy 3:15; 2 Peter 1:21).

2. We believe there is one God, eternally existent in three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Genesis 1:1; Matthew 28:19; John 10:30).

3. 3. We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ (John 10:33); His virgin birth (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:35); His sinless life (Hebrews 4:15; 7:26); His miracles (John 2:11); His vicarious and atoning death (1 Corinthians 15:3; Ephesians 1:7; Hebrews 2:9); His resurrection (John 11:25; 1 Corinthians 15:4); His ascension to the right hand of the Father (Mark 16:19); and His personal return in power and glory (Acts 1:11; Revelation 19:11).

4. We believe in the absolute necessity of forgiveness of sin and the regeneration by the Holy Spirit for salvation because of the exceeding sinfulness of human nature; and that people are justified on the single ground of faith in the shed blood of Jesus Christ and that only by God’s grace and through faith alone are we saved; and that “there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved” other than the name of Jesus Christ (John 3:16-19; 5:24; 14:6; Acts 4:12; Romans 3:23; 5:8-9; 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-10; Titus 3:5; 1 John 1:9; Revelation 3:20).

5. We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost; they that are saved unto the resurrection of life, and they that are lost unto the resurrection of damnation (John 5:28-29).

6. We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Galatians 3:26-28).

7. We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, by whose indwelling the Christian is enabled to live a godly life (Romans 8:13-14; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19-20; Ephesians 4:30; 5:18).

Neighborhood Christian Center is a Ministry of Agape Schools Inc.,

dba: Neighborhood Christian Schools (NCS);

A 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Religious Corporation

Tax ID #: 94-275-2656 / www.agapeschools.com

NCS Philosophy of Christian Education complete document is available at:

http://www.agapeschools.com/supplemental/NCSPhilosophyofChristianEducation.pdf


http://www.agapeschools.com/supplemental/NCSPhilosophyofChristianEducation.pdf

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LEGAL POLICY

COMMUNITY CARE LICENSING

Community Care Licensing is the agency which licenses and oversees the policies and enforcement of its laws

for all childcare centers. We are a licensed facility and we are subject to their random inspection and

childcare protection interviews. Over the past 34 years, our center has had only minor violations, which have

awarded NCC good standing with the agency. We hold ourselves accountable to God, the community and the

government agencies. Please note that we are required to report all suspicious physical and emotional abuse.

You, the parent, and the child have your rights as indicated in your packet.

I understand that I have the right to see my child at any time while my child is under NCC care. As a matter of

record all parents are asked to sign in/out in the office and wear a visitor badge during visitation time. I also

understand that Community Care Licensing Agency has the right to conduct inspections consistent with Health

and Safety Code Sections 1596.852 and 1596.853, which includes the authority to interview children or staff

and to inspect and audit child or facility records without prior consent. The agency shall also have the

authority to observe the physical condition of the children, including conditions which could indicate abuse,

neglect or inappropriate placement and to have a licensed medical professional examine the child(ren).

The Local Office of the Community Care Licensing (CCLD) is located at:

Community Care Licensing 2580 North First Street, Suite 300

San Jose, CA 95131 (408) 324-2148

http://www.ccld.ca.gov

The CCLD Facility Search website: https://secure.dss.ca.gov/CareFacilitySearch/home/selecttype/

http://www.ccld.ca.gov/

https://secure.dss.ca.gov/CareFacilitySearch/home/selecttype/

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Parent/Guardian Rights

As a Parent/Authorized Representative, you have the right to:

1. Enter and inspect the child care center without advance notice whenever children are in care. 2. File a complaint against the licensee with the licensing office and review the licensee public file kept

by the licensing office. 3. Review, at the child care center, reports of licensing visits and substantiated complaints against the

licensee made during the last three years. 4. Complain to the licensing office and inspect the child care center without discrimination or retaliation

against you or your child. 5. Request in writing that a parent not be allowed to visit your child from the child care center, provided

you have shown a certified copy of a court order. 6. Receive from the licensee the name, address and telephone number of the local licensing office:

Licensing Office Name: Community Care Licensing Licensing Office Address: 2580 N. First Street, Suite #300, San Jose, CA 95131 Licensing Office Telephone #: (408)324-2148

7. Be informed by the licensee, upon request, of the name and type of association to the child care center for any adult who has been granted a criminal record exemption, and that the name of the person may also be obtained by contacting the local licensing office.

8. Receive, from the licensee, the Caregiver Background Check Process form.

Children’s Personal Rights

Personal Rights, See Section 101223 of waiver conditions applicable to Child Care Centers. Each child receiving services from a Child Care Center shall have rights which include, but are not limited to, the following:

1. To be accorded dignity in his/her personal relationships with staff and other persons. 2. To be accorded safe, healthful and comfortable accommodations, furnishings and equipment to meet

his/her needs. 3. To be free from corporal or unusual punishment, infliction of pain, humiliation, intimidation, ridicule,

coercion, threat, mental abuse or other action of a punitive nature, including but not limited to interference with the daily living function, including eating, sleeping, or toileting, or withholding of shelter, clothing, medication or aids to physical functioning.

4. To be informed, and to have the authorized representative, if any, informed by the licensee of the provisions of law regarding complaints including, but not limited to, the address and telephone number of the complaint receiving unit of the licensing agency and of information regarding confidentiality.

5. To be free to attend religious services or activities of his/her choice and to have visits from the spiritual advisor of his/her choice. Attendance at religious services, either in or outside the facility, shall be on a completely voluntary basis. In Child Care Centers, decisions concerning attendance at religious services or visits from spiritual advisors shall be made by the parent(s), or guardian(s) of the child.

6. Not to be locked in any room, building, or facility premises by day or night. 7. Not to be placed in any restraining device, except a supportive restraint approved in advance

by the licensing agency.

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PARENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE AND AGREEMENT

PARENT COPY

This page of the NCC Handbook MUST BE PRINTED and SIGNED by NCC’s Administration

These procedures are with regard to grievances with NCC, staff or administrators.

NCC utilizes direct, face-to-face resolutions, which are the Biblical means of resolving differences and

expressed grievances:

1. If one is offended, the person offended must tell the offender his/her offense and resolve the matter.

(Matthew 18:15-18) If one becomes aware of another being offended, the offender has a

responsibility to go to the offended and resolve the matter (Matthew 5:23-24) if their prayers are to

be heard. This meeting must be face-to-face at an appropriate, mutually agreed date and time, with

one administrator attending. In this situation, the “administrator” would normally be the:

a. Master Teacher; or

b. Preschool Directors; or

c. Executive Director; or

d. Chief of Operations

All meeting notes and resolutions are documented and copies will be given to all parties involved.

2. It is the Executive Director's responsibility to be assured that the differences are resolved. If not, the

Executive Director should bring the parties together to assist with a final resolution with forgiveness.

This plan will be implemented for all to work cooperatively in the future.

3. If reconciliation is deemed not possible, NCC, may ask the parents to withdraw from enrollment so

that they may find a school better suited to their needs.

I/we agree to support NCC, philosophy of Christian education, instructional programs, and school policies.

I/we also understand that NCC, regularly reviews school policies and reserves the right to makes necessary

revisions.

_____________________________________ _________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Signed

______________________________________ __________________________

Signature of Staff/Witness Date Signed

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PARENT GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE AND AGREEMENT

NCC OFFICE COPY

This page MUST BE PRINTED, SIGNED and RETURNED to the NCC Office

These procedures are with regard to grievances with NCC, staff or administrators.

NCC utilizes direct, face-to-face resolutions, which are the Biblical means of resolving differences and

expressed grievances:

1. If one is offended, the person offended must tell the offender his/her offense and resolve the matter.

(Matthew 18:15-18) If one becomes aware of another being offended, the offender has a

responsibility to go to the offended and resolve the matter (Matthew 5:23-24) if their prayers are to

be heard. This meeting must be face-to-face at an appropriate, mutually agreed date and time, with

one administrator attending. In this situation, the “administrator” would normally be the:

a. Master Teacher; or

b. Preschool Directors; or

c. Executive Director; or

d. Chief of Operations

All meeting notes and resolutions are documented and copies will be given to all parties involved.

2. It is the Executive Director's responsibility to be assured that the differences are resolved. If not, the

Executive Director should bring the parties together to assist with a final resolution with forgiveness.

This plan will be implemented for all to work cooperatively in the future.

3. If reconciliation is deemed not possible, NCC, may ask the parents to withdraw from enrollment so

that they may find a school better suited to their needs.

I/we agree to support NCC, philosophy of Christian education, instructional programs, and school policies.

I/we also understand that NCC, regularly reviews school policies and reserves the right to makes necessary

revisions.

_____________________________________ _________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian Date Signed

______________________________________ __________________________

Signature of Staff/Witness Date Signed

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR RECEIPT OF NCC PARENT GUIDE BOOK

(NCC OFFICE COPY FOR CHILD’S RECORDS)

I have received a copy of the 2016-2017 NCC Parent Guide Book. Please sign your initials declaring that you have read and agree to each section of the NCC Policies and Procedures. _________ Who We Are _________ Admissions Policy

_________ Drop Off/Pick Up Policy _________ Safety Policy

_________ Emergency Policy _________ What to do when your Child is Sick

_________ Dress Code Policy _________ Disciplinary Procedures

_________ Happy Health Me Policy _________ Classroom Procedures and Policies

_________ Legal Policy and Agreements _________ Parent Grievance Procedure & Agreement

Parking Lot Safety Policy

Child’s Name: Gender: Male Female

Parent/Guardians Name:

Parent/Guardian Signature: Date:

Signature of Executive Director Date:

parent guidebook - neighborhood christian center...page 6 of 43 ncc parent guidebook/pw updated:...

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