WESTMORELAND CHILDREN'S CENTER
   Serving the community since 1970
1) What is your policy regarding sick children?
We ask that you use your best judgment in knowing if your child is well enough to attend school.  If they are not feeling well, then they won't have a good day.  If your child has any of the following symptoms: fever of 100 degrees of higher, thick or discolored nasal discharge, discharge from eyes or ears, vomiting, diarrhea or an unexplained rash; he/she should stay home (or will be sent home).  They should not return to school until they have been symptom free for 24 hours.  All contagious illnesses should be treated per doctors orders and children should receive medication for 24 hours before returning to school.  The Center should be notified so we can inform parents.

2) Do you have a sick care option?
We do not have sick care option, but we allow children to return to the Center after they have been symptom free for 24 hours and we will administer medication provided the proper authorization forms have been completed.

3) Do I have to pay for days when my child is absent due to illness or vacation?
Tuition is due and will not be waived regardless of the absence of the child for reasons such as illness, vacation, or the temporary closing of the Center for weather or other emergencies.

4) What is your discipline policy?
The Center's approach to discipline involves utilizing strategies that help children at all ages achieve self-control.  Constructive approaches such as setting and respecting limits, understanding personal actions and their consequences,and problem solving and seeking alternative solutions are used.  These approaches lead to increased self esteem as children grow more able to handle future situations on their own.

5) What types of meals and snacks do you serve?
The Center is committed to offering meals and snacks that are nutritious, attractive and good tasting.  Meals and snacks are served family style.  The Center participates in the Child and Adult Care Food Program through the USDA.

6) Do you charge extra if I'm late picking my child up?
Yes.  It is important for all children to be picked up promptly at the end of their program.  In the event of late pick-up, parents will be billed per child.  The fee is $15.00 for the first 15 minutes and $5.00 per 15 min. increment thereafter.

7) What is your staff turnover rate?
We feel very fortunate that many of our staff have been with us from 5-10 years or more.  In our industry, the turnover rate is high, but we strive to provide competitive salaries and benefits to encourage teachers to join our organization and stay over time.  Any time we have a vacancy to fill, we try to find a teacher with both educational training and years of experience whom we feel is a good match for the classroom and the team.

8) What is your overall child care philosophy?
A respect for children is the heart of the philosophy of WCC.  We recognize and value each child's individuality. By responding to needs and interests on a personal level, we promote self-esteem and facilitate growth in each aspect of development.

9) What are your security/safety policies?
The Center doors are locked at all times and parents and visitors must be let in by a staff member.  We have parents sign their child in each day and indicate who will be picking the child up from school.  That person then signs them out.  We do not release children to anyone who is not authorized to pick up.

10) Can I observe/visit my child whenever I like?
Parents are welcome at any time in the Center.  If you would like to visit or volunteer, arrangements can be made with your child's teacher.  The only time we would discourage visiting is if it is upsetting to the child or the routine of the classroom.

11) Is there financial assistance available?
The Center charges tuition on a sliding scale, based on total family income.  The financial aid application can be found on page 6 of the preschool application packet.  In addition, the Center is committed to providing substantial scholarships to families with income below $50,000 who wish for their children to attend our full-day program.  Call our office for more scholarship info.
Copyright © 2006 Westmoreland Childrens Center