HANDBOOK - Early Childhood Educationece.aurorak12.org/.../08/ECE-Staff-Handbook-June-2017-2.pdfEARLY...

1

AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

EARLY CHILDHOOD EDUCATION DEPARTMENT – ECE Family & Staff HANDBOOK

Update July 2017

AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EARLY LEARNING PROGRAM

HANDBOOK Families & Staff

Revised July 2017

2



Update July 2017

HANDBOOK 2017-18 TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 – General Information PAGE

Early Learning Department Contacts 3

Early Learning Program Locations 4

Early Learning Mission Statement 5

Goals/Curriculum and Planning Guides 6, 7

SECTION II – Policies & Guidelines

APS Policies 8 - 12

Early Learning Policies & Guidelines 12

Access to Programming 12

Returning Students 12

Accident/Injury/ Illness Reporting 13

Ages of Preschool Students 13

Arrival/Dismissal Procedures 13

Attendance/Absences 13

Calendar and Program Hours 14

Child Abuse Reporting 14

Class Size 15

Clothing and Personal Belongings 15

Closings/Delayed Start 15

Conferences 16

Contact Information Is Critical 16

Diapering 16

Discipline 17

Emergency Information 18

Early Pickup 18

Field Trips in Preschool 18

General Health Appraisal (Well Child Exam) 19

Health/Illness 19

Homework Guidelines 19

3



Update July 2017

Immunizations (Required) 20

Late Pickup 20

Medication 20

Medical Procedures in Emergency Situations 21

Personal Belongings & Money 21

Program Licensing Requirements 21

Safety Drill Information 21

Missing Child Policy 22

Sign In/Out Policy 23

Snack Guidelines 23

Sunscreen 25

Staff 25

Student Records 25

Television & Video Viewing 25

Tuition Based Preschool Policy/Admission 26

Toileting Guidelines 26

Visiting School 26

Volunteers 26

SECTION III – Licensing Rules & Regulations

Licensing Policies & Procedures A - Z 27 - 31

SECTION IV– APPENDIX & Misc. Information & Resources

Appendix A -Reporting Child Abuse/Making a Complaint

32

Appendix B - Child Care Weather Chart 33, 34

Appendix C - Guidelines for Keeping Children Home 35, 36

Appendix D - Fun In The Sun 37

Addl. Info - Family Days 38

Addl. Info - Routines 38

Addl. Info - Separation Anxiety 39

Addl. Info - Schedules 40, 41

Important Links & Websites 42

4



Update July 2017

SECTION I – GENERAL PROGRAM INFORMATION

Early Learning Department

Office PHONE: 303-364-9371

FAX: 303-326-1972 Office Hours: Monday – Friday

7:3o a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

EARLY EDUCATION MAIN OFFICE: TITLE NAME EXT.

Director Suzanne Rougier [email protected]

28973

Assistant to the Director Jessica Loren [email protected]

28971

Department Secretary Adrian Cowan [email protected]

303-364-9371 ext. 28950

Specialist Mary Winterbottom [email protected]

28951

ECE Consultant Marissa Heeren [email protected]

ECE Consultant Wendy Shelton [email protected]

29265

ECE Consultant Lea White [email protected]

29232

Budget Tech Melodie Morris [email protected] o.us

303-364-9371 ext. 28975

Department Clerk Wendy Orduna [email protected]

303-364-9371 ext. 28977

Department Clerk Wendy Morales [email protected]

303-364-9371 ext. 28979

The Department is here to assist you as needed regarding programming – our programs are located at the sites listed below – This is not intended to be used as a directory, however you can visit aurorak12.org to view the full directory. As we transition fully into all-digital resources, E-Mail is the best communication tool to contact our staff.

mailto:[email protected]







about:blank



5



Update July 2017

Early Learning Program Locations

4 APS Childhood Development Centers

APS Early Beginnings

Jamaica Child Development Center Laredo Child Development Center Meadowood Child Development Center

8 Community Child Care Centers

● Beck Recreation Center

● Lowry Center

● Summer Valley Recreation Center

● Village Green Recreation Center

● The Children's Academy

● Little Angel's Child Care

● Children's Chalet

● Creative Learning Academy

2 Charter Schools

● AXL Academy

● Rocky Mountain Prep at Fletcher

31 Elementary Sites

Altura Elementary

Arkansas Elementary

Aurora Frontier P8

Boston P8

Century Elementary

Clyde Miller P8

Crawford Elementary

Dalton Elementary

Dartmouth Elementary

Edna & John W. Mosley P8

Elkhart Elementary

Fulton Academy of Excellence

Iowa Elementary

Jewell Elementary

Kenton Elementary

Lansing Elementary

Lyn Knoll Elementary

Montview Elementary

Murphy Creek P8

Paris Elementary

Park Lane Elementary

Peoria Elementary

Sable Elementary

Side Creek Elementary

Sixth Ave Elementary

Vassar Elementary

Vaughn Elementary

Virginia Court Elementary

VistaPEAK Exploratory P8

Wheeling IB World School

Yale Elementary

http://ece.aurorak12.org/preschools/preschool-sites/

6



Update July 2017

●

Early Learning in Aurora Public Schools

Mission Statement:

The mission of the Aurora Public Schools Early Childhood Education Department is:

‘To provide the foundational opportunities that ensure all early childhood learners will engage

in and benefit from their experiences to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to reach high levels of

learning for future success’

We do this by:

● Ensuring quality preschool programming where all stakeholders (state, county, community, district,

schools, and families) form reciprocal partnerships to provide preschool to children of all abilities and

backgrounds.

● Delivering instruction that is facilitated by highly qualified and highly effective teaching staff.

● Providing programming that is child-centered and based on solid research practices.

● Using a curriculum aligned to state standards, state developmental guidelines and is responsive to

student needs.

Programming Options and Family (Partnerships) Involvement: A menu of programming options includes half day and full day (limited for four-year old children with highest needs) to meet the diverse needs of the families in the Aurora Public Schools Community.

The Early Learning programs strive to involve the family by emphasizing the important role they play in their

child’s education and support families in their roles as nurturers and as their child’s first teacher.

Evaluating Program Quality:

Aurora Public Schools Early Learning remains involved in the School Readiness Project. The School Readiness

Project utilizes the new Quality Rating and Improvement System (QRIS) to ensure that all preschools and child

care centers are of the highest quality.

GOALS/CURRICULUM AND PLANNING GUIDES:

7



Update July 2017

Overview The goal of the Aurora Public Schools (APS) Early Learning Department is for all children to start school ready

to learn and succeed. The Early Learning Department is founded on high expectations, equity and providing

support to accelerate learning for all students.

Curriculum Resources and Content The APS Early Learning Department utilizes components of the Creative Curriculum as the core of our

instructional framework. The Creative Curriculum is a comprehensive, scientifically based curriculum for

children ages 3-5. The Creative Curriculum is built on five key components for effectively teaching young

children and these components create the framework for this research based curriculum. The APS Early

Learning Department has adopted The Creative Curriculum’s five components for teaching young children

effectively to guide the curriculum and instructional framework implemented within each APS Early Learning

classroom. The five components are:

● Knowing how young children develop and learn.

● Knowing what children learn in the content areas of literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, the

arts, and technology.

● Knowing how the physical environment affects the type and quality of learning interactions.

● Knowing how to create a positive social environment in the classroom through high quality interactions

and relationships with adults.

● Knowing how teacher-family partnerships promote development and learning.

Children as Learners Young children learn best by guided exploration through play with some direct teacher instruction therefore, the

daily schedule in Early Learning classrooms reflects a balance of exploratory learning, small group work and

some large group sessions. Early Learning teachers use their understanding of children’s interests, strengths

and needs to design and plan learning experiences to meet the needs of young learners.

Goals for individual children are defined throughout the school year. Classroom teachers begin by observing

and assessing each child’s development and then include targets and activities for individual children in their

lesson plans. Goal setting happens on a regular basis and is reported to parent at least three times a year.

Teaching Strategies Individual classrooms build on children’s knowledge and interests through a teaching strategy referred to as an

investigation or project approach. An investigation or project is an in-depth study of a topic worth learning

more about. The key feature of an investigation or project is that it is a research effort deliberately focused on

finding answers to questions about a topic posed by the children or the teacher.

An investigation or project involves organizing the daily program in a way that is both relevant and exciting for

children. The strongest feature of this teaching strategy is its support of children’s development of positive

approaches to learning as they are curious, actively engage in exploration and through their learning experiences

make sense of their world. While children explore, teachers guide the learning through questions and extension

activities.

The classroom learning environment is designed to allow children to learn while they play and explore. Each

8



Update July 2017

classroom has at least eight centers with enough materials for all children to actively engage in their

environment. These materials are selected to meet quality standards for early childhood programs. Materials

and some defined activities are added to centers on a regular basis.

Early Learning Standards We have aligned our curriculum to both the Colorado Academic Standards for Preschool and the Colorado

Early Learning and Developmental Guidelines. To ensure that the curriculum is properly used to reflect

learning from across the standards several instructional tools have been developed for teachers. The Early

Learning Curriculum guides and the Early Learning Year at a Glance outline the scope and sequence of skills

and content knowledge that children are expected to acquire during their preschool experience and stage of

development. These instructional guides explain the rationale for learning expectations and link concept

development to assessment in order to help teachers plan instruction that meets the needs of young learners.

Assessment in Early Learning Early Learning classrooms in APS are using My Teaching Strategies GOLD (TS GOLD) Objectives for

Development and Learning assessment system to monitor student learning. MyTS GOLD is an observational

assessment tool designed to assess how children are developing and learning. Classroom teachers along with

other members of the preschool team (Paraprofessional, Early Childhood Special Educators, Speech/Language

Pathologists, Physical and Occupational Therapists and Mental Health Professional) use the ongoing assessment

and monitoring in TS GOLD to pinpoint where children are in their development and learning. Through

ongoing assessment, teachers are able to intentionally plan learning experiences that are responsive to children’s

individual needs.

Teaching teams assess and document children’s learning by observing them during exploratory play and small

group activities using a variety of methods (photographs, work samples, student work and checklists). Teachers

use the assessment information to plan learning activities and to share information with parents informally and

at formal conferences.

Teacher’s Role The classroom teacher is the primary person responsible for delivering curriculum that meets the individual

needs of individual children in the classroom. To ensure that each teacher is properly supported in this critical

role, the APS Early Learning Department is committed to providing ongoing professional learning that supports

each staff member in their development of the knowledge and skills needed to perform as a highly qualified

early learning provider.

Parent’s Role The Aurora Public School Early Learning staff believes that parents play a vital role in the education of their

children. The Early Learning program provides parents with opportunities to build a strong connection between

home and school. Parent/Teacher conferences are held to inform parents about the progress children are

making and to set goals for their child’s learning

*Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations – A-Z

9



Update July 2017

Section II – Policies & Guidelines

*Aurora Public Schools Policies

Access student records:

The confidentiality of information provided by parent(s) or guardian(s) is maintained. Only authorized

personnel and licensing authorities have access to children’s records. From time to time, Aurora Public

Schools personnel are asked to share student information with someone other than the parent or guardian of the

student. Aurora Public Schools is unable to provide this information because it is prohibited by federal law

(Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act). The only exceptions to this include requests for information by a

court subpoena or when information is shared with a different public school in which the child is enrolling.

Annual Notice to Parents Disability:

In compliance with a federal law known as Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and, the Aurora Public

School District will provide to each protected student with a disability, without discrimination or cost to the student or family, those related supplementary support services or accommodations which are needed to provide

equal opportunity to participate in and obtain the benefits of the school program and extracurricular activities to the maximum extent appropriate to the person’s abilities. In order to qualify as a protected student with a

disability, the child must meet the following definition: he or she must be of school age with a physical or mental disability which substantially limits one or more life activities, (such as learning) or prohibits participation in or

access to an aspect of the school program. In addition, one who in the past has had such a disability or is perceived by others as having such a disability may also be protected by law from discrimination on the basis of disability.

Even students who are not eligible to receive services under the traditional special education programs, which

are provided pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, may be eligible to receive supplementary supports, services, and accommodations, if they fall within the definition of disability stated

above.

For further information about the evaluation procedures and provisions of services to students with disabilities,

contact the district’s coordinator of Section 504 Compliance in School Services, at phone number 303-344-8060,

ext. 28024, or write to the 504 Compliance Coordinator, School Services, Aurora Public Schools, 1085 Peoria

Street, Aurora, Colorado 80011.

10



Update July 2017

For specific information relating to special education services for

students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities

Education Act contact the Department of Exceptional Student

Services at 15700 E. 1st Avenue, Aurora, Colorado 80011, 303-340-

0510.Notice of Non-Discrimination:

The Aurora Public Schools is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs,

facilities, and employment without regard to race, age, color, creed, national origin, disability or sex. In

adhering to this policy, the Aurora Public Schools abides by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972,

the Americans with Disabilities Act, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Titles VI and VII of the

Civil Rights Act of 1964. Questions, complaints, or requests for additional information regarding these laws or

issues concerning discrimination (including information about how to file a grievance if you believe you are the

victim of discrimination) should be directed to the compliance coordinator for these issues, Brandon Eyre,

Legal Counsel, 1085 Peoria Street, Aurora, Colorado 80011, 303-344-8060 ext. 28009. This notice is available

in alternative formats.

Parent/Guardian with Special Needs:

Please contact your school or the Aurora Public Schools, Division of the Superintendent, 303-344-8060 ext.

28004 and TDD 303-340-1584 if, because of a disability, you require special assistance in order to participate in a school activity. Persons with such needs are requested to make contact at least two weeks

prior to the event if possible to allow staff to coordinate arrangements.

This publication and most other publications from your school are available in alternative formats (e.g., large

print, on audio tape and in Braille) upon request. Please contact the coordinator/director/principal of your

school for more information.

Exceptional Student Services:

The Exceptional Student Services Preschool Program is for three and four year olds who have been identified

as having significant delays in one or more developmental areas. The identification procedure is conducted

through the district Child Find office, who can be reached by calling (303) 326-3631. Child Find will set up a

screening appointment for the child. Based on the results of the screening, the Child Find member will

discuss next steps if there are concerns that the child has an educational disability. Special

Education programming is offered for students needing specially designed instruction for cognitive, speech

and language, fine motor, gross motor, and social-emotional development. . *Reference Section III

Licensing Policies & Procedures - C

Transportation and Students with Disability:

Transportation is considered a related service. Determining if a student needs specialized transportation is done by the IEP team and is a need directly related to the child's identified disability.

11



Update July 2017

Route planning and stop location will be determined using information provided by the Department of Exceptional Student Services. This information will be in accordance with the student's Individual Education Plan (IEP) and its specific requirements.

Safety shall be the primary concern when transporting students. If, in the judgment of any district administrator or driver involved, a route or trip cannot be safely made, the route or trip shall not commence until there is satisfaction that transportation can safely precede.

The district shall comply with those rules and regulations adopted by the Colorado Department of Education pertaining to school bus transportation and rules promulgated by other state or federal agencies that affect school transportation operations.

Prior to October 30th, emergency evacuation training and drills will be conducted at least twice yearly. The

purpose for these drills is to acquaint student riders with procedures to be used in emergency situations. All

students riding on activity trips will receive emergency instruction prior to the start of the trip.. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations – L & N *APS Board Policy - EEAB

Asbestos Management Plan Designed For School Safety:

The safety of students and employees in all Aurora Public Schools facilities is the number one priority for the

Environmental Compliance Branch. Our procedures for dealing with asbestos reflect that priority.

As required by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA), Aurora Public Schools has conducted

an extensive asbestos survey of all the district buildings. Based on the findings of these inspections, a

comprehensive map has been developed for each school. Each plan identifies locations and types of asbestos-

containing material in the building and details the district’s ongoing effort to maintain or remove those materials.

The plans are continually updated with documentation of asbestos related work performed at each site.

Storm Water Management Program:

Aurora Public Schools has developed a storm water management program intended to reduce nonpoint source

pollution into the local waterways. As storm water flows over driveways, lawns, and sidewalks, it picks up

debris, chemicals, sediment, and other pollutants. Storm water can flow into a storm sewer system or directly

into a lake, stream, river, wetland, or coastal water. Anything that enters a storm sewer system is discharged

untreated into the water bodies we use for swimming, fishing, and providing drinking water. Polluted runoff is

the nation’s greatest threat to clean water. If you witness illegal dumping on school grounds, please contact the

Environmental Compliance Branch immediately.

The program is available for review at the Environmental Compliance Branch at 1369 Airport Boulevard.

Questions are welcomed and should be directed to the Environmental Compliance Branch Manager at 303-367-

3000, ext. 28685.

Homeless Children & Youth - McKinney-Vento Act:

12



Update July 2017

If a student meets the federal definition for homeless, the parent(s) and the student(s) have the right to enroll in

the student’s designated attendance area and to fully participate in any school programs offered to students, for

which they meet eligibility requirements. Homeless parent(s) and student(s) do not need to provide school

documents, proof of residence or immunization records when enrolling. Schools may assist parents with

information on clinics for immunization or with requesting school documents. If a parent is denied enrollment

they may appeal the decision for non-enrollment to the district’s homeless liaison. Upon review of the situation,

the district’s homeless liaison will make a final decision on the enrollment of the student.

If a family or youth becomes homeless during the school year, parent(s) may request assistance with

transportation for their child to continue attendance at the school of origin. This request is only applicable if the

family or youth needs to move to a location outside of the school’s attendance area. This assistance with

transportation to the school of origin will be provided for the balance of the current school year. In determining

transportation options, the homeless family liaison will consider the hardship of the student if transportation is

deemed too long for the student to ride on the bus or if the time involved would also cause some hardships for

the student and their family.

For more information on homeless and the rights of homeless parents and youth, please contact the Division of

Equity and Engagement, Aurora Public Schools, at 303- 344-8060 X29031.

Student Records – Rights and Privacy:

A. Introduction:

The confidentiality of student records and privacy rights of students and parents shall be maintained in

compliance with the Colorado Public Records Act and the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (Buckley

Amendment).

The Aurora Public Schools maintain a variety of “Educational Records” that are directly related to the student.

The following types of records may be reviewed by the parent or eligible student:

1. Scholastic Achievement

2. Medical

3. Psychological Reports

4. Sociological Reports

5. Standardized Test Data

If you would like to review your child’s records, please call the director/principal to arrange a mutually agreeable

time.

B. Parents and eligible students also have the right to review education records and to request that they be

amended. For a full description of your rights under FERPA, please visit the district’s Web site at

http://aurorak12.org/ (look for Policy JRA/JRC) or request a copy of this document from your school office or

from the APS administration building (303-344-8060)

C. Directory Information: Specific information known as “Directory Information” can be released

without written authorization of the parent or eligible student unless the parent says otherwise. If you do not

want Aurora Public Schools to disclose directory information from your child’s education records without your

prior consent, you must notify the school in writing by October 1, of each year. Aurora Public Schools has

designated the following information as directory information:

13



Update July 2017

1. Student’s name

2. Participation in officially recognized activities and sports

3. Weight and height of members of athletic teams

4. Electronic mail address

5. Photograph

6. Awards received

7. Date and place of birth

8. Major field of study

9. Dates of attendance

10. Grade level

11. Most recent previous educational agency or institution attended

Senate Bill 03-072/Sex Offender List:

A state law (Senate Bill 03-072) passed in 2003, requires all schools to notify parents that they have the right

to access law enforcement agency information concerning registered sex offenders. Concerned parents may

request this list at the local law enforcement office that governs your address or the address of the school your

children attend. This could be either the Aurora Police Department or the sheriff’s office in either Adams or

Arapahoe counties, depending on your address. You must go to their office in person and show proof of

residency.

City of Aurora Police Department 303-739-6050

Adams County Sheriff’s Department 720-322-1351

Arapahoe County Sheriff’s Department 720-874-3875

Harassment – Racial/Sexual:

The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education believes that all students are entitled to pursue their education

in school-related environments that are free of racial and sexual harassments. To this end, the board prohibits

the harassment of students through conduct or communications.

It is the policy of the board that complaints be investigated and offending individuals be dealt with in accordance

with state law and district policies. Individuals who wish to file a formal complaint of racial and/or sexual

harassment may do so by informing the director or by filing a grievance with the Office of Legal Counsel, Aurora

Public Schools, 1085 Peoria Street, Aurora, Colorado 80011, 303-344-8060 ext. 28009.

Visit: http://aurorak12.org/about-aps/district-policies/ for all district policies & Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations – X

http://aurorak12.org/about-aps/district-policies/

14



Update July 2017

APS Early Learning Policies & Guidelines

Access to programming:

Enrolling and Withdrawing

CRITERIA FOR NEW STUDENTS – All age eligible children and families MUST first complete a screening to qualify for APS ECE Preschool Programming. Screening for APS Preschool Program is a 3 step process:

1. Screening

2. Registration

3. Enrollment New Students: New preschool students are scheduled in preschool after qualifying through the screening process and are placed according to classroom availability and services needed. Best practice is that children remain in the same classroom with the same teaching staff for the entire school year. In some cases, transfers may be granted if the situation requires so the child remains in school. Returning Student Screening: Students that have attended preschool in Grade P3 and will be returning to us for grade P4 will be reviewed for Colorado Preschool Program (CPP) Eligibility. The Early Learning clerical staff will call the returning P3 families and perform a phone screening beginning in November and ending in January. If a returning student does not qualify, families will be offered tuition programming. Returning Student Placement: Once returning students are verified as to their eligibility for CPP funding or tuition, they will be re-enrolled for the following school year. So that we can support continuity of student/teacher relationships, returning students are offered to return to their same classroom, with the same teacher and other returning classmates. If a parent wants to make a change, please contact the school administrator so they may work with the Early Learning staff to ensure the family is making the best decision for their child’s placement. Note: The APS Preschool Program has limited availability of overall seats for programming. Participation in the 3-step process and does not guarantee placement. For additional questions, please call the Early

15



Update July 2017

Childhood Education Department at 303-364-9371. Your child’s birth certificate is required at the time of screening for age verification. If your name does not appear on the child’s birth certificate, you MUST bring legal documentation of guardianship. *Children must be 3 or 4 years old, on or before, October 1St. Students are not placed on a first come basis. Placement does not begin until all screenings are complete. Due to limited space, attendance of a screening does not guarantee placement. *Reference Section III – Licensing Policies and Procedures – F Withdraw: If a student is needing to be withdrawn from the program, the legal parent or guardian MUST inform the school building office staff. It is imperative that information be provided about where the child will be attending school once they have withdrawn. Preschool students may be withdrawn from the program due to poor attendance and inability to contact legal parents or guardians. *Reference Section III Licensing Policies and Procedures- Z

Accident/Injury/Illness Reporting:

All licensed preschool classrooms must immediately report in writing to the Colorado Department of Human

Services an accident or illness occurring in the classroom or center that resulted in medical treatment by a

physician or other health care professional, hospitalization, or death. This report must be made with 48 hours

after the accident or illness occurred.

Ages of Preschool Students:

To be eligible for the preschool program, children must be 3 or 4 years old on or before October 1st of the

current school year. *Reference Section III – Licensing Policies & Procedures - B

Arrival & Dismissal Procedures:

Arrival: Students must be signed in daily on the classroom attendance sheet. You MUST remain with your child until they are signed in. You or a designated adult (over 18 years old) must be listed on the student emergency card in order to sign your child in and out. You must sign your full legal name. This is mandatory.

16



Update July 2017

Dismissal: Students must be picked up at the stated dismissal time. All students must be signed out daily by an

authorized adult according to district and state policies and regulations. If someone other than the child’s parent

or guardian will be delivering or picking up a child from school, prior written authorization must be given. If a

student has not been picked up on time, a “friendly reminder” will be given to the parent(s) or guardian(s) when

they arrive. If a student is not picked up within 15 minutes of the class ending time, the office will be notified.

The Aurora Police Department WILL be called 30 minutes after the end of the class session if no authorized

adult has arrived and no contact with the responsible adult has been made. If a student has not been picked up

on time, the child will remain with the classroom facilitator/teacher or paraprofessional until he/she is picked up

by an authorized adult. The administrator in charge will always be notified if a child has not been picked up.

*Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations - O

In order to keep all children safe, please help us by obeying all traffic laws around the school building. A

parent, legal guardian, or other person responsible for a child who is 6 years of age or younger may NOT

leave that child inside a motor vehicle without supervision.

Attendance/Absences:

Daily attendance is required of every student. Absences are reported to the office every day. Please telephone

your child’s school to report an absence. When a child will be absent, notification is appreciated as early as

possible on the day of the absence. If notification of your child’s absence is not received, an office staff member

will call you to verify the child’s absence.

Your help in communicating excused absences will assist the school in identifying unauthorized absences and

safeguard your child.

Regular attendance in the preschool program is very important for the child to become comfortable with a

regular and consistent schedule. In case of a communicable disease, such as chicken pox, measles, etc., it is

extremely important that parents notify the preschool teacher immediately so that proper notification can be

given to all families participating in the program. *

Excused Absences:

1. Illness or quarantine of child, parent, or sibling (Illness lasting more than ten (10) consecutive days

must be verified by a medical doctor)

2. Medical appointment of child or other family member.

3. Family emergency

4. Severe weather conditions that prohibit travel to and from school

5. Official or legal agency appointments

6. Court-ordered visitation

7. Religious/cultural celebrations

Absences that are in the Best Interest of the Child (Limited to 10 days per fiscal year)

17



Update July 2017

1. Non-court ordered visitation with non-custodial parent

2. Special Day with parent

3. Vacation

4. Work/School Holiday for parent scheduled on a day, which differs from the center’s

observance

Unexcused Absences (Limit to 10 per fiscal year)

1. Illness lasting more than ten (10) consecutive days, which have not been verified by a medical doctor

2. Preschool child did not want to go to school

3. Parent/child overslept

4. Any absence for which a specific reason is not given

Students attending under the Colorado Preschool Program: Rule: Students missing more than ten

(10) consecutive days of instruction with unexcused absences, will subject the preschool student to

termination of preschool services.

Calendar and Program Hours:

Attendance hours for regular preschool programming are 2 hours and 45 minutes a day, 4 days a week.

Attendance start and end times, as well as calendar attendance dates differ between locations of the preschool

program. Please be sure to check with your building’s front office regarding start and end times and attendance

dates for the school year. *Reference Section III Licensing Policies & Procedures – D & Y

Child Abuse Reporting:

All staff members of the Aurora Public Schools Early Childhood Education Program are obligated by law to

report suspected abuse or neglect to the county Department of Human Services and/or the local law enforcement

agency. To report suspected child abuse, please contact Arapahoe County Social Services at 303-636-1750 or

Adams County Social Services at 303-412-5212. *APS Board Policy – JLF

*Reference Section IV APPENDIX A – Reporting Child Abuse/Making a Complaint

CLASS SIZE:

APS ECE follows the Colorado Preschool Program ratio guidelines. All classrooms are at a ratio of 16 students to 2 adults at a maximum. When the classroom allocation is filled, additional qualifying children are placed on a waiting list by the ECE Department. Wait-listed children are enrolled during the school year as vacancies occur provided the application process is complete. For more information or questions, please call the Early Education Department at 303-364-9371.

18



Update July 2017

Clothing and Personal Belongings:

Appropriate clothing is necessary to allow children the freedom to paint, explore and play

outdoors safely. Children will play outside daily if weather permits. Coats, boots, jackets and

play shoes are always appropriate. Open-toed sandals or slick-soled shoes are not

recommended. Due to safety concerns, access to some activities may be restricted due to

inappropriate dress. All child’s belongings should be labeled with child’s first and last name.

It is good practice to send a change of clothes in your child’s backpack in case of incidental

soiling. *Please do not send in plastic bags as they are a safety hazard for suffocation and

are not allowed in our classrooms.

Toys and personal items should not be brought to school unless the teacher has requested

certain items for activities.

Closings:

Labor Day

Fall Break (One Week)

Thanksgiving Break (Three Days)

Winter Break (Two Weeks)

Martin Luther King Day Presidents’ Day

Spring Break (One Week)

*Please be sure to check with your school regarding additional no attendance days for professional development

and teacher work days. These days may differ between schools.

Weather-Related Delays or Closures:

When bad weather is expected, Aurora Public Schools staff members assess weather

conditions to determine if the district should delay start times, close schools, or proceed

with the scheduled school day. Inclement weather is defined by the Weather Watch Chart

which considers humidity, wind chill and shade. *Reference Section III Licensing Policies

& Procedures - D

19



Update July 2017

*Reference Section IV APPENDIX B – Child Care Weather Chart

Communicating Delays or Closure Information

If Aurora Public Schools closes schools or delays start times, APS will share this news with local television and

radio stations and will post the information on the district Web site. http://aurorak12.org/.

Delayed Start Time

If weather or other emergency conditions are severe, but not serious enough to close schools, the superintendent

may announce a late start schedule for the opening of schools. ALL STUDENTS WILL BE ON A ONE-HOUR

DELAYED START TIME. SPECIAL EDUCATION STUDENTS WILL REPORT TO BUS STOPS ONE

HOUR LATER THAN ORIGINAL PICK-UP TIMES. Schools with delayed start times will end at their

regularly scheduled times.

Closures:

Full-day closures: If Aurora Public Schools closes schools, classes will not be held and students should stay

home for the day.

Early dismissal: If early dismissal is necessary due to extreme weather conditions, students will be released to

the individuals that parents have identified on the child's Emergency School Closure Card. *Reference

Section III Licensing Policies & Procedures – D

*Outdoor Play:

Outdoor time will be held each day that weather permits. In the winter, if the temperature is 20° degrees (F) or

above (with wind chill factored in) children will go outside. It is important that the children dress for the cold

weather, i.e. coat, hat, mittens. In the summer, children do not go outside if the temperature is above 90°

degrees (F). Outdoor time is at least 30 minutes per day, weather permitting.

Conferences:

Conferences are held with parents in the fall and spring to discuss the progress of each child. Please refer to the

school’s annual preschool calendar for specific scheduled dates. Parents will be contacted by their child’s teacher

regarding conference appointment date and time.

Contact Information Is Critical:

It is critically important that parents provide the school with updated home and work telephone numbers throughout the school year. In addition, the school must have the name of an adult to contact in the event of an emergency, should we be unable to reach the parent. If no one can be reached, the police will be contacted. It is also important that parents review backup plans with their children in case the unexpected happens (early dismissal, parent delayed, etc.).

Diapering: An appropriate setting must be found at each site to ensure the privacy and dignity of the child is respected at all times. Proper safety and health procedures must be followed at all times when diapering a child. This includes cleaning and disinfecting the changing area completely. Parents will provide all diapering supplies.

http://aurorak12.org/

20



Update July 2017

Any individual needs and conditions of a child will be shared with the staff. In this way, each child’s needs, development and progress can be supported. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations - U Health Department Diaper Changing Procedure:

1. Wear a new pair of disposable gloves prior to each diaper change. 2. Place child on a clean, disinfected, dry changing table. 3. Clean child’s body with a pre-moistened disposable wipe. 4. Remove gloves and discard with soiled diaper in a lined and covered trash receptacle. 5. Replace soiled diapers and clothing with clean items. 6. Place soiled clothes in a plastic bag. 7. Wash child’s hands under running water with soap and dry their hands with a disposable towel. 8. Return the child to the crib or play area. 9. Disinfect the following: • Diapering area • Equipment and supplies • Any surface or furnishings

contaminated with urine or feces 10. WASH YOUR HANDS.

Approved Disinfectant Solution for Diaper Changing Bleach Water: ¼ cup of bleach per 1 gallon of water 1 minute contact time required “Children develop differently socially, emotionally, and physically. All of these aspects will affect their ability to control their bodily functions. It is important that staffs are patient with children even when they have accidents, so that the children and their self-esteem do not suffer. Staff should encourage children to try to control their bodily functions and praise them when they do. This will instill pride and confidence in them, but if they do have accidents encouragement is still needed so that the children are not afraid or embarrassed, thus learning to hate bathroom time.” – From ECERS-R, Cryer et al.

Discipline:

District Philosophy Statement on Student Discipline and Shared Responsibility in Student Discipline

(Summary):

The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education believes that learning is the primary function of the district and

its schools. It also believes that students must not only master academic content, but also acquire behavioral

skills that are necessary for their ultimate success. All social institutions, including schools and places of work,

have rules that establish the behavioral expectations of its participants. In a public school district, these rules

must reflect the need to promote an environment that is safe and conducive to learning. Such rules must also

reflect the need for mutual respect and cooperation between all persons in the school community.

When students fail to follow established rules, discipline may be necessary. The process will be instructive and

corrective; its focus will be on helping the student to change or control inappropriate behavior, rather

than on punishment. The ultimate goal will be the students' acquisition of self-discipline so that little external

21



Update July 2017

enforcement is required.

The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education believes that the existence of a fair and effective discipline

program is the shared responsibility of all stakeholders, including students, staff, parents, family members, and

the larger community.

Ref.: Policy ADH District Philosophy Statement on Student Discipline & Section III

Licensing Rules & Regulations - I

Policy ADHA District Statement on Shared Responsibility in Promoting Safe Schools

All policies are available on the district Web site, at each school building and at the Education Services Center

#4, 1085 Peoria Street in Aurora.

Emergency Information:

It is essential that parents complete the “Emergency Contact” Information on the “Family Address and

Information Form” at the start of every year and whenever there are changes. If your child is injured or becomes

ill at school, the staff needs to be able to reach a responsible adult.

The Board authorizes the use of district facilities as shelter areas in the case of disaster or other medical

emergency. Additional resources may be provided upon request from outside agencies. District personnel must

be on site at the time of the building’s shared use to provide supervision and site security. The Superintendent

of Schools, Deputy Superintendent or a designee shall represent the district in coordinating disaster response

with appropriate state and city officials, the American Red Cross and others requiring assistance from the district.

Early Pickup:

Please check with the school office regarding the schools building policy regarding late pickup. In most cases

the policy is that the authorized adult picking up the child early MUST check in with the school main office and

gain authorization to go to the classroom or the child will be brought to the office. Please note, that children not

attending the full session of the preschool day are missing out on vital instruction time. Early pickup of a

preschool student should be last recourse while scheduling is being considered. *Reference Section III Licensing

Rules & Regulations – Q

Field Trips in Preschool: A parent/legal guardian permission form MUST be signed before a child may participate on a field trip Supervisor approval MUST be granted before preschool classroom field trips can be implemented. Teachers may take children on brief walking fieldtrips in the vicinity of the school. This could include going to a park near school, as well as walks in the adjacent neighborhood. An adult/child ratio of two adults to one child must be maintained at all times, excluding brief walks on school grounds.

Walking/Neighborhood Field Trips:

● Fire station

● Library

● Post Office

● Local restaurants

● Bakery

● Local parks or natural habitats

22



Update July 2017

Enrichment programs that will present at your school:

● Denver Zoo ● Butterfly Pavilion

● Colorado Ballet ● Chinese Acrobats

● Mizel Museum ● Denver Aquarium

● Opera Colorado ● Denver Botanical Gardens

● Wildlife Experience ● Arvada Center

● APS Fire Department

● Pickens Tech

● Mad Science

General Health Appraisal (Well Child

Exam) (Required):

The parent or guardian of each child must submit a statement of the child’s current health status signed

and dated by a medical provider within the last 12 months.

The General Health Appraisal Form must be submitted to your child’s school within 30 days of enrollment.

Failure to meet this State requirement will result in suspension from school until there is compliance with the

law. The form is provided in the Preschool Enrollment Packet and is required annually.

Health/Illness:

It is extremely important for parents to advise the school health office staff if a child has health problems or

allergies. The school must be notified when a child is diagnosed with a communicable disease such as measles,

pertussis (whooping cough), mumps, chicken pox, etc. A student with a serious health problem (examples

include diabetes, asthma, seizures, etc.) must have an individual health plan, written by the school nurse, on file

before attending school.

It is sometimes difficult to determine when to keep a child at home due to illness. The student must remain at

home, if they have a temperature of 100° degrees orally, or 99° degrees when taken under the arm. If the

student has any infectious disease, the child should be kept at home and the building nurse should be notified.

*Reference Section IV APPENDIX C – General Guidelines for Keeping Children Home Due To Illness

• * Reference Section III – Licensing Rules & Regulations - J

Homework Guidelines: The Aurora Public Schools Early Childhood Department is founded on high expectations, equity, and support to

accelerate learning for all students. We believe the early years of a child’s life, every experience, every day,

create the foundation for success in school and beyond.

All families share a desire for their children to succeed in school. The Early Childhood Department believes that

strong communication between home and school ensures that children will be supported in their learning.

Parent involvement in early childhood can extend the experiences that a child has in the classroom to real world

activities that happen in the home. When parents understand what is happening in their child’s preschool

23



Update July 2017

classroom they are able to make connections between what is being learned at school and what is happening in

the home.

Early Childhood teachers in APS share curriculum information with families and recommend home activities

that are complementary to the curriculum being taught. Parent-child home activities or “Preschool Homework”

allow opportunities for parents and children to spend time together in a relaxed setting.

The following fundamental principles guide the Early Childhood Departments decisions related to homework

for preschool age children.

● Teacher-family partnerships promote development and learning.

● Positive interactions and relationships with adults provide a critical foundation for successful learning.

● Social-emotional competence is a significant factor related to school success.

● Constructive, purposeful play supports essential learning for young children.

● A balance of child- and adult- guided learning experiences help children learn.

Using these fundamental principles as a guide, Early Childhood teachers offer concrete and feasible suggestions

about behaviors and activities parents can use with their children at home to consolidate and extend the learning

taking place in the classroom The recommended activities include a wide variety of school readiness activities

that support learning in all areas of development such as fine motor, large motor, language development, math

concept development and early literacy learning such as alphabet knowledge and story/book comprehension

skills.

Immunizations (REQUIRED):

All students must show proof of immunizations before attending school. Students who do not submit an official

immunization record or present a valid exemption will be denied admission to the Aurora Public Schools

Preschool Program.

Failure to meet Colorado immunization law within 14 days will result in exclusion from school until there is compliance with the law. The law states that a child may be exempted from immunizations with a physician’s medical recommendation or a written statement signed by the parent or guardian stating opposition based on religious or personal beliefs. Anytime your child may be in contact with other children who are non-immunized or under-immunized. This notification is in accordance with the State of Colorado Rules Regulating Child Care Centers.

Our district participates in the School Medicaid Program, which allows APS to earn funds to expand health

services for students. If/when your child is Medicaid-eligible; APS can bill the Medicaid program for services

delivered in school, (including speech/occupational/physical therapies or nursing services, audiology,

psychology or social worker services). A parent’s signature on the “Family Address and Information Form”

gives the Medicaid program permission to earn these funds. School Medicaid reimbursement does not affect the

family’s other Medicaid benefits in any way.

Late Pickup:

Children MUST be picked up immediately at the end of class time. The schedule for preschool does not allow

for the staff to be available for supervision of your child beyond the posted times of class. Please be considerate

24



Update July 2017

of others and have your child picked up from school on time. If a child is left for more than 30 minutes, and

no authorized adult can be contacted, the Aurora Police Department will be contacted. *Reference Section

III Licensing Rules & Regulations - P

Medication:

Students shall not be permitted to take medication while at school unless medication is administered in

accordance with the procedure outlined in Policy JLCD and JLCD-R and in compliance with Section 12-38-

132, C.R.S. of the “Nurse Practice Act”. Only the school nurse or health para who has completed the 4-hour

Medication Administration Training will administer medication. If a student needs medication at school, an

authorization form is required. The parent should notify the registered nurse or health room para educator for

specific medication guidelines.

Prescription medication supplied by the student’s parent or guardian must be in the original container from the

pharmacy with a label that includes student name, drug name, dose specific to weight or age, time interval, route

(e.g., by mouth, injection, etc.) and specific instructions. Non-prescription medications must also be in the

original labeled container and should also be labeled with the student’s name. All medications must be stored in

the school clinic, locked and inaccessible to children. All medications should be delivered to the health room

staff by a responsible adult or by special arrangements and clear communication between parent and school staff.

Controlled substances (narcotics and some behavioral medications) must be secured in the health office at all

times and may not be carried by any student at any time. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations

– R

Medical Procedures in Emergency Situations:

All staff members are required to be trained, recognized and certified in CPR, First Aid, and

Standardized Precautions. Each room has an outline of emergency medical procedures including emergency telephone numbers. In every situation, staff will follow the instructions of the poison control center, physician, or medical response team when providing first aid and/or administering emergency medications.

Personal Belongings & Money:

Please do not let your child bring other toys or belongings from home, as bringing a treasured object to the

school can create tension for the other children. Moreover, each child’s personal storage space is limited. It can

be distressing for children and staff members when things are lost or misplaced. We cannot assume

responsibility for the loss of or damage to personal belongings. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules &

Regulations – S

Program Licensing Requirements:

25



Update July 2017

The Aurora Public Schools Early Childhood Program sites comply with all applicable licensing regulations and

standards as set forth by the school district, as well as state, county and local licensing agencies. The regulations

and standards relate to our facilities, staff, health and safety procedures, nutrition, and teacher/child ratios. Our

facilities are inspected regularly by health, fire and licensing compliance officials at each level; city, county and

state. To file a complaint regarding licensing issues contact: The Colorado Department of Human Services

Division of Childcare, 1575 Sherman St. Denver, CO 80203 or phone 303-866-5958. *Reference Section III

Licensing Rules & Regulations - X

Safety Drill Information: The following regulation is in accordance with the Life Safety Code,

issued by the National Fire Protection Associations.

Evacuation/Fire Drills:

Two drills in the first two weeks of school, followed by eight additional drills over the course of the

school year. One drill must be a hazardous chemical drill. Part-day preschools programs will conduct

drills for both the morning and afternoon session. In elementary school settings, some preschool drills

will be conducted separate from the elementary site scheduled drills as to be compliant with state

licensing.

Lockdown: Two drills per year with one drill being a level three drill.

Tornado: At least once annually. One drill is required before April 15th.

Missing Child Prevention: All preschool staff will use the following prevention procedures: NAME TO FACE SHEET Call the students name, look at their face, and check them on the sheet. “Name to Face” should be conducted during the following times: ● Arrival time ● One hour prior to outside time ● One hour after outside time ● Prior to leaving the room ● Once your have arrived at the destination (outside, bathroom, etc.) ● Mid-point while outside ● When getting ready to re-enter the building ● Once you have returned to the classroom ● Departure time ● Name-to-Face should be conducted during any emergency drill. Anytime a student leaves the custody of the facilitator/para (bathroom, special education services etc.) the location must be noted on the Name-to-Face sheet. If at any time there is a question about student count, or a child’s whereabouts, staff are required to contact (radio or phone) the front office immediately.

Missing Child Policy:

26



Update July 2017

The following is an outline of the procedures to be followed by ECE Staff in the event a child is missing.

1. The office staff must be notified immediately. 2. They will coordinate an in-house search for the child and will be responsible for the notification of the

parent(s). 3. If the child is not located within five (5) minutes, 911 is to be called. 4. The building administrator must be notified. 5. Once the outcome of the circumstances has been resolved, the building administrator will contact the

ECE Specialist to prepare a written report concerning the events. This report will be sent to the Colorado Department of Human Service, 1575 Sherman Street, Denver, Colorado 80203, and Aurora Public Schools Risk Management. An Incident Report is to be sent to Aurora Public Schools School Services.

6. The report will contain the following information: a. Name and address of the child

b. Name of the parent(s) or guardian(s) and address (if different from the child’s) c. Date of the event d. The location, time and circumstances when the child was last seen. e. Circumstances and efforts for locating the child. f. Name of all persons involved with the effort including the staff person supervising the

child. 7. The report will be followed up with a review of procedures and policies for the prevention of any future

event and the implementation of Lost Child Procedures. *Reference Section III Licensing Policies & Procedures – H & K

SIGN IN/OUT POLICY:

DAILY PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGN-IN/OUT SHEETS

A legal document required by State Child Care Licensing, the parent/guardian signature and time upon a child’s arrival grants the teacher permission to care for him or her. At the end of the school day, the parent/guardian signature and time assures that the child has departed safely. It can also be used to determine student attendance. (For an example of acceptable signatures, see the following page.)

Blank spaces, initials, quotation marks and/or unreadable time numbers on the sign-in/out sheets are not acceptable.

Sign-in/out sheets are date-continuous. It is not necessary to start a new sheet on the first of the month. The key to meeting licensing requirements is to:

● provide parents with clearly printed sign-in/out sheets

● explain the importance of times and full signatures

● follow up in a timely manner on any necessary corrections

It is a licensing violation to have students in the classroom who are not signed in.

27



Update July 2017

SNACK GUIDELINES:

We recommend that nutritionally balanced snacks are provided during choice center times, thus

minimizing time that children are taken from free choice play for a whole group activity. If your school takes part in a community nutrition program, ECE classrooms may participate, just be sure to follow licensing and ECERS-R guidelines when preparing and serving the food.

Colorado Preschool Program

Early Childhood Education

Classroom Snacks

All of our preschool classes proportion a snack from the community to promote family- style eating practices,

which includes working on students’ good table manners. All of the snacks need to be store-bought. We

cannot accept any homemade snacks. Store-bought pre-cut fruits and vegetables are acceptable. Whole fruits

and vegetables will be cut and prepared by school staff. Your help in providing a healthier snack is

appreciated. Please refer to this list of ideas for healthier monthly snacks for your assigned dates.

Ideas for healthier snacks include: Fruits and vegetables Low fat string cheese sticks

1-2% cottage cheese cups Low fat yogurt Rice cakes/rice crackers Multigrain or regular cheerios Wheat/multigrain crackers Whole wheat tortillas

Unsweetened applesauce Sugar- free jello

Whole wheat goldfish “No sugar added” fruit cups

Wheat/whole grain Mini-bagels Hummus and low fat ranch dip

28



Update July 2017

*Sugary and salty treats such as candy, cookies, cupcakes, cakes or chips are allowed for special

celebrations only. We allow birthday celebrations in the classroom. Treats must be store-bought and

enough for each child in the classroom. Think small (example) – mini-cupcakes are a better choice than

large cupcakes or an entire large cake.

*Choking Risks: Please avoid all hot dogs, nuts and seeds, small pieces of meat or cheese, popcorn,

raisins, and gum.

*Allergies: due to children with allergies, we do not allow any peanut or tree nut products in our classes.

These include peanut butter, peanuts, and products made with peanut oil, etc.; AND all tree nuts such as

walnuts, pecans, coconut, etc. *Reference District Policy - JLCDA

Students may bring treats to school for their birthday, providing that a treat is provided for each child in the class. The Department of Health requires that all treats served in early childhood programs be purchased from a bakery or a store. No home baked items may be served. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations - T

Sunscreen: Parents or family members are responsible for applying sunscreen to their child at home before bringing the

child to school. *Reference Section IV APPENDIX D – Fun in the Sun

Staff: APS Early Learning staff consists of qualified, highly trained, caring individuals who enjoy children and are dedicated early childhood professionals. Each class is taught by a qualified lead teacher and a paraprofessional who collaborate with special education professionals to provide a variety of engaging and developmentally appropriate experiences. All of our teachers must meet school district and state requirements for working with young children. Staff meet regularly to plan, problem solve and communicate ideas regarding the program. Staff professional development and trainings is on-going. Confidentiality is practiced and respected.

Student Records: In the classroom, a folder for State Licensing review is maintained for each child enrolled in the program. ECE student files may be SHREDDED after 7 years.

It MUST contain:

29



Update July 2017

✓ the Parent Information and Permissions Form, (a copy is given to the parent also)

✓ the Child’s Statement of Health Status for Enrollment,

✓ a copy of the child’s Immunization Record,

✓ a copy of the child’s Birth Verification,

✓ a copy of the child’s District Registration Packet (original is in the school office)

✓ a separate folder may be kept for bodies of evidence.

*Early Child Development Center sites may elect to keep all student records in the school office instead

of classrooms. This is acceptable providing licensing inspectors are given full access upon request.

Television & Video Viewing:

Television and/or videos may not be used without permission of the student’s parent/guardian. Television and/or

video viewing are used sparingly, not to exceed 15 minutes. The programs will be curriculum based and add

content to the curricular theme. The programs will be at a G rating or under. *Reference Section III Licensing

Rules & Regulations – M *APS Board Policy JS

Toileting Guidelines: Aurora Public Schools early education teachers and paraprofessionals are committed to supporting children and families in the process of independent toilet use, in all classrooms. If a child is struggling with the process, teachers will work with families to implement appropriate support measures, including, but not limited to the following:

o Encouraging the student to use the bathroom at regular intervals

o Encouraging the student to independently clean him/herself and change into clean clothing

o Allowing a parent or guardian to return to school to assist with clean-up/changing clothing

o Allowing the use of pull-ups or training undergarments, per family preference

If an ECE classroom is not equipped with bathrooms, teachers will coordinate with parents, other teachers, and

other appropriate school personnel to create a toileting and cleaning/changing plan within the first two weeks of

school, in order to maintain safe in-classroom ratios. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations - U

Tuition Based Preschool Policy Admission:

Children must be 3 or 4 years old on or before October 1 of the current school year in order to be eligible for

Tuition Based Preschool (TBP). Parent or legal guardian must complete the preschool screening process to

be considered for TBP. All classrooms are inclusive with Special Education and Colorado Preschool

Program students. The tuition program follows the traditional school calendar or the calendar established at

the school location. Due to limited locations, Tuition qualified students are selected by a computerized

lottery system. If your child is not selected the first round, they will be placed on a waiting list.

30



Update July 2017

Fees: A non-refundable application fee of $60 will be collected at time of tuition agreement meeting. Full

tuition is $350 a month. Payment must be received or postmarked before the 5th

of each month. Full monthly

tuition is due regardless of illness or parent approved absences. There will be no refunds, prorates or credits for

preschool services. First payment will be due August 5th, last payment due May 5th . There will be no payment

for the month of December.*Reference Section III Licensing Policies & Procedures - G

Visiting School:

Parents and family members are encouraged to visit their child's classroom throughout the year. Please make arrangements in advance with the child’s teacher. Short, well-planned visits provide a better understanding of the child’s school experience rather than long unscheduled visits. Since small children, particularly infants, tend to distract the classroom, we ask that parents not bring young children when visiting their child’s classroom. Children not enrolled at the school must be accompanied by an adult when visiting school. All visitors must check in and sign in/out at the main office. Family members are not to be utilized for ratio regulations. Two APS qualified staff members must remain in the classroom at the time of visits. *Reference Section III Licensing Rules & Regulations - V

Volunteers:

Volunteers are welcome to assist in classrooms as needed. They must first register with Risk Management.

Please visit webpage http://security.aurorak12.org/volunteers/ for policies and forms. The school

administrator must approve all program volunteers based on the school district volunteer policy.

Volunteers are not to be utilized for ratio regulations. Two APS qualified staff members MUST remain in

the classroom when volunteers are present.

SECTION III – LICENSING RULES & REGULATIONS

ABC’s FOR ECE LICENSING

AURORA PUBLIC SCHOOLS EARLY EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

LICENSING POLICIES & PROCEDURES A - Z

A written statement of the center’s policies and procedures must be made available to parents and guardians and

to staff and must include the following:

A. The center’s purpose and its philosophy on child care. Aurora Public Schools Early Education

http://security.aurorak12.org/volunteers/

31



Update July 2017

Department Mission Statement:

‘To provide the foundational opportunities that ensure all early childhood learners will engage in and benefit

from their experiences to develop the skills and knowledge necessary to reach high levels of learning for future

success’

B. The ages of children accepted. 2 years, 10 months-6 years. Children must be three (3) or four (4) years

of age on or before October 1 of the year of enrollment.

C. Services for special needs children in compliance with the Americans with

Disabilities Act.

Children identified through screening processes to have a special need attend in inclusive classroom settings throughout the district. Considerations of best placement and services are determined through the Aurora Public Schools Child Find Department. D. The hours the center is open, specific hours during which special programs are offered, holidays when the center is closed. Half-day Early Childhood Education (ECE) classes are 2 hours/45 minutes per day and full-day ECE classes are 6 hours/30 minutes per day Monday through Thursday except for predetermined days for Parent Meetings and Professional Development. Specific hours of operation are determined by the individual school. Holidays and District Planning Days are determined by the district calendar. E. The policy regarding inclement or excessively hot weather. Outdoor time will be held each day that weather permits. In the winter, if the temperature is 20° degrees (F) or above (with wind chill factored in) children will go outside. It is important that the children dress for the cold weather, i.e. coat, hat, mittens. In the summer, children do not go outside if the temperature is above 90° degrees (F). Outdoor time is at least 30 minutes per day, weather permitting. F. Procedure concerning admission and registration of children. Children must be three (3) or four (4) years old on or before October 1 of the year of enrollment. A legal birth certificate or other acceptable records shall be required for enrollment age verification. Payment of tuition at various levels or tuition-free status is based on family income provided at the time of application. Residents of the APS school district will have priority to available classroom slots. ECE children register according to APS registration and Colorado state child care licensing requirements. G. Itemized fee schedule. Tuition fees are collected monthly beginning in August and ending in May. No tuition is collected during the month of December. H. Procedure for identifying where children are at all times. Children are signed in and out at the start and end of each class by the parent/guardian or other person for whom written authorization has been given by the parent/guardian. Only full signatures are acceptable on the sign-in/out forms, not initials. Teachers do regular roll-calls and head counts at daily transition times, such as returning from the playground, lining up for a trip to the library, etc. Children are not allowed to leave the classroom or group unaccompanied at any time. Teachers are expected to use reasonable accountability procedures at all times.

I. The policy on discipline. District Philosophy Statement on Student Discipline and Shared

32



Update July 2017

Responsibility in Student Discipline (Summary):

The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education believes that learning is the primary function of the district and

its schools. It also believes that students must not only master academic content, but also acquire behavioral

skills that are necessary for their ultimate success. All social institutions, including schools and places of work,

have rules that establish the behavioral expectations of its participants. In a public school district, these rules

must reflect the need to promote an environment that is safe and conducive to learning. Such rules must also

reflect the need for mutual respect and cooperation between all persons in the school community.

When students fail to follow established rules, discipline may be necessary. The process will be instructive and

corrective; its focus will be on helping the student to change or control inappropriate behavior, rather than on

punishment. The ultimate goal will be the students' acquisition of self-discipline so that little external

enforcement is required.

The Aurora Public Schools Board of Education believes that the existence of a fair and effective discipline

program is the shared responsibility of all stakeholders, including students, staff, parents, family members, and

the larger community.

Ref.: Policy ADH District Philosophy Statement on Student Discipline

Policy ADHA District Statement on Shared Responsibility in Promoting Safe Schools

All policies are available on the district Web site, at each school building and at the Education Services Center

#4, 1085 Peoria Street in Aurora.

J. The procedure, including notification of parents and guardians, for handling children’s illnesses,

accidents and injuries. Parents are informed in writing of all illness, accidents and injuries on the day of

occurrence unless the incident warrants immediate attention in which case appropriate procedures are initiated

and the parents are contacted. ECE classrooms follow Aurora Public Schools Policy JLCD regarding First Aid

and Emergency Medical Care.

K. The procedures for handling lost children and other emergencies at all times, including during

field trips. Staff attempts to locate the child informing appropriate authorities, including police, sheriff, etc.,

based on location from which child is missing. After 5 minutes, emergency procedures, as defined in H, J, and

any other related procedures, apply.

L. The procedure for transporting children, if applicable, including transportation arrangements and parental permission for excursions and related activities. Parent permission for excursions is signed upon completion of registration. Parents are notified prior to all field trips requiring transportation of children. District transportation procedures (see Aurora Public Schools Policy JLCD/JLCD-R) are used for field trips and in cases of scheduled transportation of children to and from school in compliance with Colorado Department of Transportation regulations.

33



Update July 2017

M. The written policy and procedure governing field trips, television and video viewing and special activities, including the staff’s responsibility for the supervision of children. Each year schools shall obtain an annual Parent/Legal Guardian Permission Form for field trip participation (see Aurora Public Schools Policy IJOA-2-E) for each student attending the school. For each field trip, the school shall distribute the Notice of Field Trip Participation Form (IJOA-3-E), notifying the parent or guardian that they have previously granted permission for field trip attendance and that they may decline participation by notifying the school. Each school shall designate at least one individual to manage the field trip permission process. Preschool staff will be responsible to ensure that a ratio of two adults to 1 child is maintained at all times on field trips with the exclusion of short walks on school grounds. Television and/or videos may not be used without permission of the student’s parent/guardian. Television and/or video viewing are used sparingly, not to exceed 15 minutes. The programs will be curriculum based and add content to the curricular theme. The programs will be at a G rating or under. N. The policy on children’s safety related to riding in a vehicle, seating, supervision, and emergency procedures on the road. Public school transportation guidelines in compliance with Colorado Department of Transportation regulations are followed. No enrolled preschool child in Aurora Public Schools may ride a district bus to and from school on a daily basis unless their parent/guardian applies for and is granted an exception by the APS Department of Transportation. O. The procedure for releasing children from the center only to persons for whom the center has written authorization. Parents are required to complete a Parent Permission Form when enrolling their ECE child that lists only those adults to whom their child may be released. Children may be released to other adults with written parental approval. At least one piece of identification must be inspected (and a copy kept in the child’s file) for individuals who are strangers to ECE staff. Per state licensing requirements, parents, guardians or others authorized in writing by parent or guardian are required to sign children in and out of the classroom daily. P. The procedures followed when a child is picked up from the center after the center is closed or not picked up at all, and to ensure that all children are picked up before the staff leave for the day. Parents/Guardians are expected to advise the school in advance if they know they are going to be late so that arrangements can be made and explanations given to the child. Children not picked up after class is over will be left with the APS ECE Staff and emergency numbers called. If a designated adult cannot be contacted before 30 minutes, the school will follow district guidelines and the Aurora Police Department along with the Aurora Public Schools Security Department will be contacted. Q. The procedure for caring for children who arrive late to the center and their class/group is away from the center on a field trip or excursion. Children may not be left alone or signed in at the school office. A parent or authorized adult must remain with the child until the class returns R. The procedure for storing and administering children’s medicines and delegation of medication administration in compliance with Section 12-38-132, C.R.S., of the “Nurse Practice Act.” No medications are stored or distributed by classroom staff. Per Aurora Public School Policy JLCD, each school’s procedure for storage and administration of medication as designated by the “Nurse Practice Act” is applicable to the Early Childhood classrooms. School staff trained and designated to administer medications to ECE students will be specified in school nurse’s planning book.

S. The procedure concerning children’s personal belongings and money. A limited space is provided

for each child’s personal belongings. Parents are advised that children do not bring money or valuables to

34



Update July 2017

school. Should a child bring money or valuables or when special event purchases occur, classroom staff collects

the money or valuables at the beginning of the session for safekeeping. Valuable items and cash for non-specific

uses are returned at the end of the day.

T. The policy concerning meals and snacks. Meals and snacks are nutritious and either determined by program requirements, or can be site-based choices. U. The policy on diapering and toilet training. Children enrolling in Aurora Public Schools ECE will be supported in becoming independent in their toileting routine. In case an accident occurs, the staff will treat the child with care and respect. It is required families provide their child’s preschool staff with resources such as; diapers, pull-ups and wipes so the child may be changed. If there are no resources for the child to be changed the parent or legal guardian will be contacted to come to school. V. The policy regarding visitors to the center. Per Aurora Public Schools Policy KI, visitors must report to the school office when entering, receiving authorization before visiting elsewhere in the building. In the ECE classroom, visitors will sign in with name, date, address, phone number and purpose of their visit. At least one piece of identification must be inspected for individuals who are unknown to ECE staff.

W. The policy on parent and staff conferences to inform the parents or guardians of the child’s

behavior, progress, and social and physical needs.

Conferences are held twice a year or as needed.

X. The procedure for filing a complaint about childcare (see 7.701.5, General Rules for Child Care

Facilities). Posted in each classroom:

To file a complaint about this state licensed program, contact:

The Colorado Dept. of Human Services Division of Child Care

1575 Sherman St.

Denver, Colorado 80203-1714

303-866-5958

Y. The policy regarding the reporting of child abuse (see 7.701.5, General Rules for Child Care

Facilities). Posted in each classroom:

All Aurora Public Schools Staff are Mandatory Child Abuse Reporters. Staff are trained annually through

required courses.

A report must be made when the reporter, in his or her official capacity suspects or has reasons to believe that a

child has been abused or neglected. When the reporter has knowledge of, or observes a child being subjected to,

conditions that would reasonably result in harm to the child, the reporter is mandated to report to the local

authorities.

Colorado Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline 1-844-CO-4-KIDS (1-844-264-5437)

Available 24 hours a day, every day. Don't hesitate to call and get help. Anyone witnessing a child in a life-threatening situation should call 911 immediately.

35



Update July 2017

Z. The policy regarding notification when childcare service is withdrawn and when parents or

guardians withdraw their children from the center. In order to withdraw a child from an ECE classroom,

parents are required to inform the teacher and school office staff. Individual school procedures for withdrawal

are implemented. In extreme cases, withdrawal of childcare services may occur after parents have been

informed of steps necessary to maintain services and compliance has not been achieved within specified time

period. If a child is absent: 1-2 days…..school office calls

3 consecutive days……teacher calls the home and contact the family liaison

5 consecutive days……refer to school mental health provider and administration

10 consecutive days…... the child may be withdrawn from the program based on

school administrator and Colorado Preschool Program

Guidelines.

SECTION IV – APPENDIX - MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION & RESOURCES Appendix A

REPORTING ABUSE / MAKING A COMPLAINT Dear Parent/Guardian, Your child is enrolled in a child care program licensed by the Colorado Department of Human Services and by the Department of Excise and Licenses. These licenses indicate that at the time of inspection the provider has met standards needed to operate either a licensed Family Child Care Home, Child Care Center, or School-Age Child Care program. These standards include:

● Written policies and procedures ● Communications, emergency, and security procedures ● Personnel requirements for education, experience, training, and supervision ● Requirements including procedures for admissions: health care; personal hygiene; physical care; food

and nutrition; discipline; overnight care; field trips and transportation; holiday schedules; and fee policies

● Activities

36



Update July 2017

● Equipment and materials ● Facility requirements ● Fire and other safety requirements ● Maintaining children’s records ● Administrative reports and records

In addition to the above standards, all licensed child care providers are required to report suspected physical, emotional, or sexual abuse of any of the children in their care. As a parent of a child/children in licensed child care, you may report any suspected abuse by calling: Child Abuse Hotline 720-944-3000. If you wish to make a complaint or have a concern regarding your provider you may call: Colorado Division of Child Care 303-866-5958 Arapahoe County of Human Services (Child, Youth & Family Service Division) 303-636-1750 Adams County Human Services 303-412-5212 Your provider’s State Child Care License and Denver Department of Business and Excise License should be posted and available for you to see at your request. You may also review inspection reports at the facility upon request. We hope the services you and your child/children receive in this licensed child care facility will be both positive and productive.

Appendix B

37



Update July 2017

38



Update July 2017

Appendix A (cont.)

39



Update July 2017

40



Update July 2017

Appendix CGeneral Guidelines for Keeping Children Home Due to Illness

It is sometimes difficult to know when to keep children home due to illness. Below are some general guidelines that will help you make the decision about whether or not to send your child to school. Feel free to contact the school nurse or your health paraprofessional with any questions. There are three main reasons to keep sick children at home:

● The child is too sick to participate in the school day, (such as; overly tired, fussy, won’t stop crying, or for an older child, feeling well enough to focus and learn).

● The child needs more care than teacher and staff can give, and still

care for other children.

● The illness is on this list and staying home is recommended.

SYMPTOMS Child must stay Home?

DIARRHEA

frequent, loose, or watery stools compared to child’s normal stools that are not caused by food or medicine

Yes - if child looks or acts sick; if child has diarrhea with fever and isn’t acting normally; if child has diarrhea with vomiting; if child has diarrhea that overflows the diaper or the toilet

FEVER – with behavior change or other illness.

Babies younger than 4 months or younger need to see a doctor right away for a fever of 100°F or higher

Yes, when the child also has a rash, sore

throat, vomiting, diarrhea, behavior changes, stiff neck, difficulty breathing, etc.

“FLU-LIKE” SYMPTOMS

Fever over 100°F with a cough or sore throat.

Other flu symptoms can include tiredness, body aches, vomiting and diarrhea

Yes - for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone, without the use of medicine that reduces the fever

COUGHING Yes - if severe, uncontrolled coughing or wheezing,

rapid or difficulty breathing and medical attention is necessary

Mild RESPIRATORY OR COLD SYMPTOMS No – may attend if able to take part in school activities. Keep home if symptoms are severe. This includes fever or child is not acting normally and/or has trouble breathing, contact the doctor.

RASH WITH FEVER Yes – call the doctor. Any rash that spreads quickly, has open weeping wounds, and/or is not healing should be evaluated. NOTE: Rash without fever or behavior changes usually DOES NOT need to stay home from school.

VOMITING Throwing up two or more times in the past 24 hours.

Yes - until vomiting stops or a doctor says it is not contagious. If the child has a recent head injury watch for other signs of illness and for dehydration

1



Update July 2017

Illness Child must Stay Home?

Chicken Pox Yes--until the blisters have dried and crusted (usually 6 days).

Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

pink color of eye and thick yellow/green discharge

No (bacterial or viral) – children don’t need to stay home

unless the child has a fever or behavioral changes. Call your

doctor for advice and possible treatment.

Croup (see Coughing) Call your doctor for advice.

Note: Your child may be able to go to school unless they are

not well enough to take part in usual activities.

Fifth’s Disease No—child is no longer contagious once rash appears.

Hand Foot and Mouth Disease (Coxsackie virus) No—unless the child has mouth sores, is drooling and isn’t

able to take part in usual activities.

Head Lice or Scabies Yes—from END of the school day until after the first treatment.

Hepatitis A Yes—until 1 week after the illness starts and when your child

is able to take part in usual activities.

Herpes No, unless—your child has open sores that can’t be covered

or your child is drooling nonstop.

Impetigo Yes—your child needs to stay home for 24 hours after

treatment has started.

Ringworm Yes—from END of school day until after your child

starts treatment. Keep the area covered for the first 2

days.

Roseola No—unless your child has a fever or behavior changes.

RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) No—your child can go to school unless they aren’t well enough

to take part in usual activities and/or they have trouble

breathing.

Call your doctor for advice.

Strep Throat Yes—for 24 hours after starting antibiotics unless the doctor says

that it is okay to return to school sooner. Your child also needs to

be able to take part in usual activities.

Vaccine Preventable Diseases Measles, Mumps, Rubella (German Measles), Pertussis (Whooping Cough)

Yes—your child can return to school once the doctor says

they are no longer contagious.

Yeast Infections

including thrush or Candida diaper rash

No—follow good hand washing and hygiene practices.

Medications: All medications administered to students by school staff must have a signed written medical provider’s order and signed parent/guardian consent. This includes all over-the-counter and prescription medications.

2



Update July 2017

School personnel will also follow the guidelines contained in: Infectious Disease in School Setting, Guidelines for School Nurses and Personnel, Colorado Department of Health and Environment, most current edition.

Appendix D Sun and Water Safety Tips Keep your family safe this summer by following these tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). Please feel free to use them in any print or broadcast story with appropriate attribution of source. FUN IN THE SUN

Babies under 6 months: • The two main recommendations from the AAP to prevent sunburn are to avoid sun exposure, and to dress infants in lightweight long pants, long-sleeved shirts and brimmed hats that shade the neck to prevent sunburn. However, when adequate clothing and shade are not available, parent(s)/guardian(s) can apply a minimal amount of sunscreen with at least 15 SPF (sun protection factor) to small areas, such as the infant's face and the back of the hands. If an infant gets sunburn, apply cool compresses to the affected area. For All Other Children: • The first, and best, line of defense against harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure is covering up. Stay in the shade whenever possible and limit sun exposure during the peak

3



Update July 2017

intensity hours - between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. • Wear a hat with a three-inch brim or a bill facing forward, sunglasses (look for sunglasses that provide 97% -100% protection against both UVA and UVB rays), and clothing with a tight weave. • On both sunny and cloudy days use a sunscreen with an SPF 15 or greater that protects against UVA and UVB rays. • Be sure to apply enough sunscreen -- about one ounce per sitting for a young adult. • Reapply sunscreen every two hours, or after swimming or sweating. • Use extra caution near water and sand (and even snow) as they reflect UV rays and may result in sunburn more quickly. See more at: https://healthychildren.org/English/news/Pages/Summer-Safety-Tips-Sun-and-Water-Safety.aspx

Additional Inforamtion: Family Days: The Early Childhood Education Staff cordially invites all our families to participate in the

Early Childhood Education Department’s Parent Day. Family Day is an opportunity for

parents to come to the last hour of school and join their child in learning activities related to

literacy, math and social development.

The on-going program is scheduled one Thursday each month (with the exception of

November, February and May), and begins, Thursday, September 7, 2017. Parent Day is

scheduled for the last hour of your child’s morning or afternoon class session.

The dates for Parent Days for the 2017-18 school year are:

Thursday, September 7

Thursday, October 5

Thursday, December 7

Thursday, January 11

Thursday, March 1

Thursday, April 5

The guidelines to participate in Parent Day are:

Adult family members (over 18 years old) are invited to participate in the program, please

join us!

Parents are welcome to bring the other children to the Family/Child Hour. However, since

childcare is not provided, children will need to remain with parents during Parent Day.

4



Update July 2017

You are your child’s best teacher; we can’t wait to work with you and your child; learn

from you and start what will be a wonderful relationship with your family and Aurora

Public Schools.

ROUTINES:

We encourage the consistent use of rituals and routines in the ECE classroom.

When children have a general idea of the order and flow of most school days, they

feel safe and secure.

Some routines will be based on the community of learners that you are building in

your classroom, others will be managerial, while others will be based on

curriculum. The following is just a partial list of some routines you might include!

Community of Learners

● Greeting students and parents by name at the door each morning, sometimes

with a handshake

or a hug

Reading with a parent or friend at the beginning of the day

Managerial

● Students moving their name tags to a special board or table, to show they are

present

● Cycling through name tags in order to assign classroom jobs

● Students moving to whole group or centers, based on a special sound or

song being played

● A system in place for choice center management, that promotes student

independence and self-help

Curricular

● Reviewing the linear calendar from Everyday Math

● Meeting with the teacher or paraprofessional for small group literacy or

math instruction

SEPARATION ANXIETY: Separation anxiety is a concern for many children and families. Work with

parents/guardians by keeping an open channel of communication. Consider sharing the following information with parents (from www.kidshealth.org):

Making Goodbyes Easier

http://www.kidshealth.org/

5



Update July 2017

These strategies can help ease kids and parents through this difficult period: ● Practice. Practice being apart from each other, and introduce new people and

places gradually. If you're planning to leave your child with a relative or a new babysitter, then invite that person over in advance so they can spend time together while you're in the room. If your child is starting at a new day care center or preschool, make a few visits there together before a full-time schedule begins. Practice leaving your child with a caregiver for short periods of time so that he or she can get used to being away from you.

● ● Be calm and consistent. Create an exit ritual during which you say a pleasant,

loving, and firm goodbye. Stay calm and show confidence in your child. Reassure him or her that you'll be back — and explain how long it will be until you return using concepts kids will understand (such as after lunch) because your child can't yet understand time. Give him, or her, your full attention when you say goodbye, and when you say you're leaving, mean it; coming back will only make things worse.

● ● Follow through on promises. It's important to make sure that you return when

you have promised to. This is critical — this is how your child will develop the confidence that he or she can make it through the time apart.

● As hard as it may be to leave a child who's screaming and crying for you, it's important to have confidence that the caregiver can handle it. It may help both of you to set up a time that you will call to check in, maybe 15 to 20 minutes after you leave. By that time, most kids have calmed down and are playing with other things. Don't let yourself give in early and call sooner! If you're caring for another person's child who's experiencing separation anxiety, try to distract the child with an activity or toy, or with songs, games, or anything else that's fun. You may have to keep trying until something just clicks with the child. It's Only Temporary Remember that this phase will pass. If your child has never been cared for by anyone but you, is naturally shy, or has other stresses, it may be worse than it is for other kids. (see full text at http://kidshealth.org/parent/emotions/feelings/separation_anxiety.html#) SCHEDULES:

We recommend beginning the school day with flexible and inviting activities for

children. This could mean beginning the day with center play, open library time, or

any other activity that will invite students in to the classroom. By waiting to begin

circle time or orientation activities, the teacher has more time to greet families, take

attendance, and help kids transition into the day’s activities.

We’re also asking teachers to maximize the time they can allot to free choice interest areas

6



Update July 2017

and outdoor play. This is a quality recommendation from QRIS, but it is also a best practice

for our work with 3 and 4 year olds. While some direct instruction will still happen during

whole group and small group work, instruction and learning are pivotal during free choice

interest areas and outdoor play.

We’re happy to work with teachers to brainstorm schedules that work the best for their

individual circumstances and communities of learners.

Sample Half-Day Preschool Schedule

(Based on a 2.75 hour day including check in and departure times – minutes can be increased for extended day schedules)

Recommended Minutes: Curricular Focus:

Arrival (5 minutes) Greet teacher/para/peers Check in (moving name, writing name) Coat off/taking care of backpack

Hand Washing (5 minutes) Following sequence to wash hands (posted picture sequence)

Morning Meeting (15 minutes) Find place to sit Hello song/finger plays (choose songs from song book) Classroom jobs (choose from/identify illustration of job)

7



Update July 2017

Review daily schedule

Writing Demonstration (15 minutes)

Listening to oral story Retelling teacher story

Story Journals Once per week children are writing in story journal

Choice time (70 minutes) Select center activity Engagement in center activity -Toys and Games -Art -Blocks -Library -Dramatic Play -Sand &Water -Music & Movement -Listening Center -Science -Computer

Small group time (occurs within choice time)

4 children per day are involved in intentionally planned activity to meet a variety of specific instructional goals

Snack (15 minutes) Family style snack

Outdoor(30 minutes) Gross motor play

Read aloud/demonstration (15 minutes)

Listening to story/interaction

Transitions ( 5 minutes) Using schedule to see what is next in the day

Closing (5 minutes) Good bye

Using schedule to see what is next in the day

Important Links & Websites:

Name Website Link

Aurora Public Schools http://aurorak12.org/

Aurora Public Schools

Early Childhood

http://ece.aurorak12.org/

http://aurorak12.org/

http://ece.aurorak12.org/

8



Update July 2017


District Policies



School Safety

http://aurorak12.org/about-aps/school-safety/

Colorado Dept. of

Education (CDE)

https://www.cde.state.co.us/

Colorado Preschool

Program (CPP)

https://www.cde.state.co.us/cpp

Child Find and Preschool

Special Education

https://www.cde.state.co.us/early/childfindpreschoolspe

d

Aurora Mental Health http://www.aumhc.org/

Arapahoe County

Government

http://www.co.arapahoe.co.us/

Adams County

Government

http://www.adcogov.org/

Arapahoe County Early

Childhood Council

(ACECC)

http://acecc.org/

Early Childhood

Partnership of Adams

County (ECPAC)

http://www.ecpac.org/

RULES AND REGULATIONS

GOVERNING THE HEALTH AND

SANITATION OF CHILD CARE

FACILITIES IN THE STATE OF

COLORADO

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/DEH

S_ChildCare_6CCR1010-7_DistribCopy_Jan2016.pdf


http://aurorak12.org/about-aps/school-safety/

https://www.cde.state.co.us/

https://www.cde.state.co.us/cpp

https://www.cde.state.co.us/early/childfindpreschoolsped

https://www.cde.state.co.us/early/childfindpreschoolsped

http://www.aumhc.org/

http://www.co.arapahoe.co.us/

http://www.adcogov.org/

http://acecc.org/

http://www.ecpac.org/

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/DEHS_ChildCare_6CCR1010-7_DistribCopy_Jan2016.pdf

https://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/DEHS_ChildCare_6CCR1010-7_DistribCopy_Jan2016.pdf

HANDBOOK - Early Childhood Educationece.aurorak12.org/.../08/ECE-Staff-Handbook-June-2017-2.pdfEARLY...

Documents

Transcript of HANDBOOK - Early Childhood Educationece.aurorak12.org/.../08/ECE-Staff-Handbook-June-2017-2.pdfEARLY...