Important policies that guide our programs and ensure the safety and well-being of all children
Absence: If your child is going to be absent or arrives after their normal arrival time, please call us at 717-762-9711 or message us in Brightwheel by 9:00 AM.
Withdrawal: Written notice, two weeks in advance, is required. Failure to give two weeks’ notice will result in a charge for two weeks’ tuition.
Weather Closings: Should severe weather prevent us from opening on time or at all, notification will be announced through our notification system.
Parents/guardians must accompany their children and sign them in. Please have your child wash hands upon arrival. We prefer children are not dropped off during rest time (12:00 – 3:00 PM).
Authorized Pick-up: Your child will only be released to those listed as Emergency and Release Contacts. Photo ID is required for verification.
Late Pick-up Fees:
A child will be dismissed from care if picked up late on 3 occasions in one school year.
You may not bring a sick child to the center. Your child will be excluded if they exhibit:
Return Policy: Children may return when free of fever, vomiting and diarrhea for 24 hours, treated with antibiotics for 24 hours, and able to participate in all usual activities.
All medications should be handed to a staff member with specific written instructions. Medications should never be left in the child’s cubby.
Prescription: Requires a note signed by the family and a written order from the physician. Must include child’s name, dosage, date, frequency, and physician’s name and phone number. Must be in original container.
Non-Prescription: Requires written permission signed by the primary caregiver. Should not be administered for more than 3 days without a physician’s written order.
Drop-off and pick-up times are the primary windows to communicate with you about your child. To make the best use of these opportunities and to be attentive to your child and other children, we ask that you do not use your cell phone at any time while visiting the center.
Children are guided to treat each other and adults with respect and kindness. When a child becomes verbally or physically aggressive, we intervene immediately. Our approach is to show children how to solve problems using appropriate interactions.
WELC maintains a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying and unsafe behavior. All incidents are documented, and incident reports are sent home.
WELC uses the Second Step program in all classrooms to equip children with tools for success.
Please dress your child in practical clothing appropriate for the weather. Children will be involved in painting, outdoor play, sand, water, and sensory activities.
Requirements:
Dangerous Weapons: Families, children, staff or guests (other than law enforcement) possessing a dangerous weapon will not be permitted on the premises.
Confidentiality: Unless we receive your written consent, information regarding your child will not be released except to required regulatory and partnering agencies.
Custody: Without a court document, both parents/guardians have equal rights to custody. We are legally bound to respect the wishes of the parent/guardian with legal custody based on a certified copy of the most recent court order.
WELC is closed for the following holidays:
Waynesboro Early Learning Center is an equal opportunity service provider. We believe every child and family should be included in all aspects of our center. We will make accommodations to our environment, schedules, and routines. We promote access and participation for all children and are flexible in our schedule and routines as needed.
We access support such as specialized professional development, community resources and therapies. We partner with the Waynesboro Area School District, Intermediate Unit 12, United Way, and other local organizations.
The goal at WELC is to avoid suspension and expulsion. We believe communication with families is key to resolve issues. Our approach includes:
Suspension and expulsion are considered only as a very last resort after all other interventions have been exhausted.
WELC practices continuity of care, striving to keep the same teachers with their age group and limit transitions. Children are transitioned based on space availability, age, and physical, social and emotional development.
Before transitioning, a child will visit the new classroom for short times to meet the teacher and other children. In the child’s last preschool year, we prepare for kindergarten by developing skills such as turn-taking, self-help skills and cooperation.
WELC makes every effort to communicate with children and families whose primary language is not English. Parents are asked to share words in their home language to help their child feel comfortable. Teachers label classroom materials in the home language of students when possible.
We use a variety of strategies including sign language, interpreters, and assistive devices. Non-English-speaking parents are encouraged to bring someone who can help interpret and translate.
For the complete set of policies, please review the Family Handbook.
