Orientation Letter '13.Pages

DuPage Montessori School 24 W. 500 Maple Ave. Naperville, IL 60540 (630) 369-6899 Fax: (630) 369-7306

Dear Parents,

The 2013-2014 school year will be starting soon! We would like to welcome our new and returning students! The first day of school is Monday, August 19. For new students, a map of the classrooms and your child’s class and teacher’s name is available on the website. Families are able to access all forms, handbooks, lunch menus and the school directory and statement information online. Check your email daily for updates through our website with your parent login and password at www.dupageschool.org.

All parents are asked to attend our Parent Orientation Nights. The teachers will explain the daily schedule and main events of the year.

Naperville Location Tuesday, August 20, 7-8 p.m.-Toddler Classes Wednesday, August 21, 7-8 p.m- 3-6 Classes in your child’s assigned classroom. Thursday, August 22, 7-8 p.m. Elementary Grades 1-3: Room #108 & Grades 4-8: #102

Wheaton Location Wednesday, August 21, 7- 8 p.m.- 3-6 Classes

Childcare will be offered for these nights for $5.00 per child.. Parents are to sign-up prior to the evening. Please contact the office if you will need childcare.

Please submit Registration forms & fees, Registration fees, Advanced Tuition Payment and the August Tuition Payment are due August 1. Please call the office if you have any questions. All monthly payments from September - May are due the 1st of each month.

The Emergency Contact forms and Medical forms must be returned to school or uploaded prior to your child/children starting school on August 19. Medical forms are required by the State and County Health Departments for all new students entering school on August 19. Students entering kindergarten and sixth grade will also need new health forms. Kindergarten, second grade and sixth grade students are also required to have a dental examination. Kindergarten and new elementary students will need to have a comprehensive eye exam. New Elementary students should have their progress reports/report cards sent to DuPage Montessori prior to admission. Please arrange to have them mailed or faxed to the school before August 19.

Lunch can be ordered online through Gourmet Gorilla on a monthly, weekly or daily basis, but it must be ordered in advance. There is an option for non-vegetarian (regular) or vegetarian meals on the menu. Gluten free lunches are also available.

Our school usually has one field trip or workshop a month for 3-6 yrs. and elementary classes. Elementary may have more than one on some months. Toddlers have two field trips a year, fall and spring. The field trip fees will be billed and collected the week before the field trip. After school classes for the school year will include: Chess, French, Yoga, Crafts, Matisse, Monet and Me, Piano Keyboard and more. All parents are welcome to join our Parent Task Force who plan our family events and fundraising projects. More information will be coming with our events for the 2013-2014 school year.

We are looking forward to the new school year! Bob and Sharon Breen (Directors) ! DuPage Montessori Online allows parents to logon to a password-protected part of our website where they can complete their registration, check their account balance, order lunch, search school directories, and chat in forums. We hope this simplifies a lot of the clutter and paperwork in being involved with a school. Parents will be given email notifications whenever there is new handout posted for their class or if they have a negative account balance.

To access this part of the website you must first pay the registration fee, then you will be given a Registered parents can logon using: username and password to logon to Login: Last Name the website. Once logged on, you Password: Date of Birth (eldest child) can complete the rest of the Example: registration process online. Login: Smith Password: 03/02/2001 15 mo. - 2 years Toddler Class Supply List

1 picture of your child 1 picture of your family 3 (one gallon) zip bags with a full set of change clothes in each bag 1 pair of inside shoes with rubber soles and easy to wash

1 pack of white computer paper 500 ct. 1 pack of multi colored construction paper 1 large back pack with at least 3 pockets

1 package of diapers (if needed) and diaper cream 2 box of baby wipes 2 containers of Clorox wipes 3 bottles of liquid soap

Nap Supplies

1 small blanket 1 crib sheet (pack-n-play size is best ﬁt) 1 small stuffed animal (optional)

Clothing should be comfortable, making it easy for your child to get dressed and undressed. Buckles on belts, zip and snap pants and overalls make it difﬁcult for children to be independent in school. Elastic waist pants are best for this age group. Outside shoes should be velcro gym shoes. Slip-on rubber soled shoes are also acceptable. When your child is ready to toilet train we will ask you to bring (5) pairs of underwear. 2-3 Toddler Class Supply List

1 picture of your child 1 picture of your family 3 (one gallon) zip bags with a full set of change clothes in each bag 1 pair of inside shoes (rubber soles)

1 Blue folder 1 pack of computer paper 1 pack of multi colored construction paper 1 large back pack with at least 3 pockets

1 package of diapers (if needed) and diaper cream 1 box of baby wipes 2 containers of Clorox wipes 1 bar of soap 3 bottles of liquid soap

Nap Supplies

1 small blanket 1 small pillow 1 crib sheet 1 small stuffed animal (optional)

Child’s Name:______Birth Date:______Date:______

Each child is unique, and knowing about his or her activities, interests, habits and history helps us to better understand your child. Answering the following questions about your child would be helpful to the staff to serve your child’s needs.

Were there any difficulties during pregnancy or birth? ______Has your child had any serious illnesses or accidents? ______Age walked______Age of first word______Age of first sentence______Language spoken at home______If other than English, does your child understand English?______Age gave up bottle______At what age did your child feed himself/herself? ______Does your child have a security blanket or toy? ______When did your child first learn to use the toilet? _____Does he/she need help going to the bathroom? ______In what way? ______What type of play materials (toys) does your child use most frequently?______What TV programs does your child watch? ______What period of time per day? ______Does your child have any other activities or classes he/she attends? ______How does your child act when separating from you? ______Does your child initiate his/her own activities? Never ______Seldom ______Sometimes ______Often ______Does your child participate in dressing? ______Can your child put on a coat?______shoes?______Does your child play alone? Never______Seldom______Often______Always______Do other children tend to stimulate your child?______Make him/her shy?______Cause him/her to lose control?______Have little or no effect?______How does your child act when ill? ______How does your child act when hurt? ______List any fears your child has ______Regular bedtime______p.m. How long does he/she nap?______What do you do when he/she has trouble sleeping? ______

When you find it necessary to discipline your child, what do you do and who administers it? Mother:______Father: ______Other: ______What rewards are used (if any)? ______

What do you hope your child will gain or learn from his/her experience here? ______

Do you have any concerns in your child’s current development?______If yes, in what areas?______

What do you, as parents, expect or hope the school can do for you? ______

Please list anything else you think would be helpful in aiding and understanding the development of your child: ______

Signature: ______

Relation to child: ______Du Page Montessori School

EMERGENCY CONTACT PERSONS

Student’s Name: ______Home Phone: ______Mother’s Work Phone: ______Father’s Work Phone: ______Cell Phone:______Cell Phone:______Should the school be unable to contact us in the event of an emergency, we suggest that one of the following two people below be contacted. (Note: Emergency contact persons should be reliable people, who are available and have transportation during your child’s class time. This must be someone your child knows well and who can be called upon in a emergency to pick up your child and can care for your child.)

1.) ______Name in Full Phone (Area code & Number)

______Street Address City & Zip Code

2.) ______Name in Full Phone (Area code & Number)

______Street Address City & Zip Code

ALTERNATE PICK-UP PERSONS (May be same as above)

1.) ______Name in Full Phone (Area code & Number)

______Street Address City & Zip Code

2.) ______Name in Full Phone (Area code & Number)

______Street Address City & Zip Code

Signature of Parent/ Guardian: ______Date: ______Du Page Montessori School

HOSPITAL AND FIRST AID RELEASE FORM

Student’s Name: ______Home Phone: ______Mother’s Work Phone: ______Fathers Work Phone: ______Address: ______

Physician Name: ______Telephone: ______Hospital Affiliation: ______

We give DuPage Montessori School permission to take my child to a hospital in an emergency where such action is deemed urgent by the school. We understand that we will bear full financial responsibility for all costs incurred for medical treatment.

Signature of Parent/ Guardian: ______Date: ______

We give DuPage Montessori School permission to administer first aid and give CPR to my child if necessary.

Signature of Parent/ Guardian: ______Date: ______

Illinois Department of Public Health Childhood Lead Risk Assessment Questionnaire

ALL CHILDREN 6 MONTHS THROUGH 6 YEARS OF AGE MUST BE ASSESSED FOR LEAD POISONING (410 ILCS 45/6.2)

Name ______Today’s Date______

Age ______Birthdate ______ZIP Code ______

Respond to the following questions by circling the appropriate answer. R E S P O N S E

1. Is this child eligible for or enrolled in Medicaid, Head Start, All Kids or WIC? Yes No Don’t Know

2. Does this child have a sibling with a blood lead level of10 mcg/dL or higher? Yes No Don’t Know

3. Does this child live in or regularly visit a home built before 1978? Yes No Don’t Know

4. In the past year, has this child been exposed to repairs, repainting or renovation of a home built before 1978? Yes No Don’t Know

5. Is this child a refugee or an adoptee from any foreign country? Yes No Don’t Know

6. Has this child ever been to Mexico, Central or South America, Asian countries (i.e., China or India), or any country where exposure to lead from certain items could have occurred (for example, cosmetics, home remedies, folk medicines or glazed pottery)? Yes No Don’t Know

7. Does this child live with someone who has a job or a hobby that may involve lead (for example, jewelry making, building renovation or repair, bridge construction, plumbing, furniture refinishing, or work with automobile batteries or radiators, lead solder, leaded glass, lead shots, bullets or lead fishing sinkers)? Yes No Don’t Know

8. At any time, has this child lived near a factory where lead is used (for example, a lead smelter or a paint factory)? Yes No Don’t Know

9. Does this child reside in a high-risk ZIP code area? Yes No Don’t Know ------A blood lead test should be performed on children: ! with any “Yes” or “Don’t Know” response ! living in a high-risk ZIP code area

All Medicaid-eligible children should have a blood lead test at 12 months of age and at 24 months of age. If a Medicaid-eligible child between 36 months and 72 months of age has not been previously tested, a blood lead test should be performed.

If there is any “Yes” or “Don’t Know” response; and ! there has been no change in the child’s living conditions; and ! the child has proof of two consecutive blood lead test results (documented below) that are each less than 10 mcg/dL (with one test at age 2 or older), a blood lead test is not needed at this time.

Test 1: Blood Lead Result_____mcg/dL Date ______Test 2: Blood Lead Result_____mcg/dL Date ______

If responses to all the questions are “NO,” re-evaluate at every well child visit or more often if deemed necessary.

______Signature of Doctor/Nurse Date Illinois Lead Program 866-909-3572 or 217-782-3517 TTY (hearing impaired use only) 800-547-0466

6/07 FOR USE IN DCFS LICENSED CHILD CARE FACILITIES State of Illinois CFS 600 Rev 2/2013 Certificate of Child Health Examination

Student’s Name Birth Date Sex Race/Ethnicity School /Grade Level/ID#

Last First Middle Month/Day/Year

Address Street City Zip Code Parent/Guardian Telephone # Home Work IMMUNIZATIONS: To be completed by health care provider. Note the mo/da/yr for every dose administered. The day and month is required if you cannot determine if the vaccine was given after the minimum interval or age. If a specific vaccine is medically contraindicated, a separate written statement must be attached explaining the medical reason for the contraindication. 1 2 3 4 5 6 Vaccine / Dose MO DA YR MO DA YR MO DA YR MO DA YR MO DA YR MO DA YR

DTP or DTaP

TdapTdDT TdapTdDT TdapTdDT TdapTdDT TdapTdDT TdapTdDT Tdap; Td or Pediatric DT (Check specific type)

IPV OPV IPV OPV IPV OPV IPV OPV IPV OPV IPV OPV Polio (Check specific type)

Hib Haemophilus influenza type b

Hepatitis B (HB)

Varicella COMMENTS: (Chickenpox)

MMR Combined Measles Mumps. Rubella

Measles Rubella Mumps Single Antigen Vaccines

Pneumococcal Conjugate Other/Specify Meningococcal, Hepatitis A, HPV, Influenza Health care provider (MD, DO, APN, PA, school health professional, health official) verifying above immunization history must sign below. If adding dates to the above immunization history section, put your initials by date(s) and sign here.)

Signature Title Date

Signature Title Date ALTERNATIVE PROOF OF IMMUNITY 1. Clinical diagnosis is acceptable if verified by physician. *(All measles cases diagnosed on or after July 1, 2002, must be confirmed by laboratory evidence.)

*MEASLES (Rubeola) MO DA YR MUMPS MO DA YR VARICELLA MO DA YR Physician’s Signature 2. History of varicella (chickenpox) disease is acceptable if verified by health care provider, school health professional or health official. Person signing below is verifying that the parent/guardian’s description of varicella disease history is indicative of past infection and is accepting such history as documentation of disease.

Date of Disease Signature Title Date 3. Laboratory confirmation (check one) Measles Mumps Rubella Hepatitis B Varicella Lab Results Date MO DA YR (Attach copy of lab result)

VISION AND HEARING SCREENING BY IDPH CERTIFIED SCREENING TECHNICIAN

Date Code: Age/ Grade P = Pass F = Fail R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L R L U = Unable to test Vision R = Referred G/C = Hearing Glasses/Contacts

IL444-4737 (R-02-13) (COMPLETE BOTH SIDES) Printed by Authority of the State of Illinois

Birth Date Sex School Grade Level/ ID Last First Middle Month/Day/ Year #

HEALTH HISTORY TO BE COMPLETED AND SIGNED BY PARENT/GUARDIAN AND VERIFIED BY HEALTH CARE PROVIDER ALLERGIES (Food, drug, insect, other) MEDICATION (List all prescribed or taken on a regular basis.)

Diagnosis of asthma? Yes No Loss of function of one of paired Yes No Child wakes during night coughing? Yes No organs? (eye/ear/kidney/testicle)

Birth defects? Yes No Hospitalizations? Yes No When? What for? Developmental delay? Yes No Blood disorders? Hemophilia, Yes No Surgery? (List all.) Yes No Sickle Cell, Other? Explain. When? What for? Diabetes? Yes No Serious injury or illness? Yes No Head injury/Concussion/Passed out? Yes No TB skin test positive (past/present)? Yes* No *If yes, refer to local health department. Seizures? What are they like? Yes No TB disease (past or present)? Yes* No Heart problem/Shortness of breath? Yes No Tobacco use (type, frequency)? Yes No Heart murmur/High blood pressure? Yes No Alcohol/Drug use? Yes No

Dizziness or chest pain with Yes No Family history of sudden death Yes No exercise? before age 50? (Cause?) Eye/Vision problems? _____ Glasses Contacts Last exam by eye doctor ______Dental Braces Bridge Plate Other Other concerns? (crossed eye, drooping lids, squinting, difficulty reading) Ear/Hearing problems? Yes No Information may be shared with appropriate personnel for health and educational purposes. Parent/Guardian Bone/Joint problem/injury/scoliosis? Yes No Signature Date

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS Entire section below to be completed by MD/DO/APN/PA HEAD CIRCUMFERENCE if < 2-3 years old HEIGHT WEIGHT BMI B/P

DIABETES SCREENING (NOT REQUIRED FOR DAY CARE) BMI85% age/sex Yes No And any two of the following: Family History Yes No Ethnic Minority Yes No Signs of Insulin Resistance (hypertension, dyslipidemia, polycystic ovarian syndrome, acanthosis nigricans) Yes No At Risk Yes No LEAD RISK QUESTIONNAIRE Required for children age 6 months through 6 years enrolled in licensed or public school operated day care, preschool, nursery school and/or kindergarten. (Blood test required if resides in Chicago or high risk zip code.) Questionnaire Administered ? Yes No Blood Test Indicated? Yes No Blood Test Date Result TB SKIN OR BLOOD TEST Recommended only for children in high-risk groups including children immunosuppressed due to HIV infection or other conditions, frequent travel to or born in high prevalence countries or those exposed to adults in high-risk categories. See CDC guidelines. No test needed Test performed Skin Test: Date Read / / Result: Positive Negative mm ______Blood Test: Date Reported / / Result: Positive Negative Value ______LAB TESTS (Recommended) Date Results Date Results Hemoglobin or Hematocrit Sickle Cell (when indicated) Urinalysis Developmental Screening Tool SYSTEM REVIEW Normal Comments/Follow-up/Needs Normal Comments/Follow-up/Needs Skin Endocrine Ears Gastrointestinal Eyes Amblyopia Yes No Genito-Urinary LMP Nose Neurological Throat Musculoskeletal Mouth/Dental Spinal Exam Cardiovascular/HTN Nutritional status Respiratory Diagnosis of Asthma Mental Health Currently Prescribed Asthma Medication: Quick-relief medication (e.g. Short Acting Beta Agonist) Other Controller medication (e.g. inhaled corticosteroid) NEEDS/MODIFICATIONS required in the school setting DIETARY Needs/Restrictions

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS/DEVICES e.g. safety glasses, glass eye, chest protector for arrhythmia, pacemaker, prosthetic device, dental bridge, false teeth, athletic support/cup

MENTAL HEALTH/OTHER Is there anything else the school should know about this student? If you would like to discuss this student’s health with school or school health personnel, check title: Nurse Teacher Counselor Principal EMERGENCY ACTION needed while at school due to child’s health condition (e.g. ,seizures, asthma, insect sting, food, peanut allergy, bleeding problem, diabetes, heart problem)? Yes No If yes, please describe. On the basis of the examination on this day, I approve this child’s participation in (If No or Modified please attach explanation.) PHYSICAL EDUCATION Yes No Modified INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS Yes No Limited

Print Name (MD,DO, APN, PA) Signature Date

Address Phone (Complete Both Sides) Naperville School Calendar 2013-2014

August 19 First Full Day of School 20 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (Toddler) 21 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (3-6 yrs.) 22 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (Elementary) 29 Ice Cream Social 6 p.m.

September 2 No School-Labor Day Holiday 11-12 Picture Days 13 Spirit Day (students wear school t-shirt)

October 4 October Festival (games, food and magician) 14 No School-Columbus Day

November 11 No School-Parent / Teacher Conference (Veteran’s Day) 26 Children’s Thanksgiving Celebration 27, 28, 29 No School-Thanksgiving Holiday

December Winter Break (Daycare Available- December 23-January 3)

January 6 School Resumes 20 School Closed - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 20 Fall 2014 Current Student Registration Begins

February 14 Children’s Celebration of the Heart (Valentine’s Day) 17 No School-President’s Day

March 21 No School - Parent/Teacher Conferences 23 Fun Fair and Auction (tentative) 24 Summer Registration Begins 28 Last day before Spring Break Spring Break (March 31-April 4)-Daycare Available

April 7 School Resumes

May 26 No School-Memorial Day 29 Last Day of School-Graduation and Spring Celebration (tentative) 30 Daycare Only

June 2 Summer School Begins

*Note: As a rule, school does not close for snow days. In the event of a major snowstorm and our staff is unable to make it to school, notification will be posted at the Emergency Closing Center at www.emergencyclosings.com . You may also call 847-238-1234. DuPage Montessori School Naperville Parent Handbook 2013-2014 www.dupageschool.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS

MISSION STATEMENT AND GOALS OF THE SCHOOL 4 PARENT’S ROLE 5 PARENT EDUCATION 6 ADMISSIONS 7 ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL 8 PREPARING FOR SCHOOL 9 AFTER SCHOOL 9 THE CHILD’S WORK 9 ATTIRE 10 COMMUNICATION 11 PHONE CALLS 11 ILLNESS 11 ABSENCES 11 MEDICATION 11 OUTSIDE TIME 11 EMERGENCY 11 DISCIPLINE 12 LUNCH, NAP & LAUNDRY 16 SNACK LIST 17 CELEBRATIONS AND BIRTHDAYS 18 FIELD TRIPS AND MISC. POLICIES 19 STUDENT RECORDS 20 ANNUAL TUITION AGREEMENT 20 LATE CHARGES 20 RETURNED CHECKS 20 DISENROLLMENT POLICY 20 WITHDRAWAL POLICY 20 SCHOOL DIRECTORS 20 SCHOOL CALENDAR 21 SCHOOL SONG 22 VERIFICATION OF RECEIPT OF PARENT HANDBOOK 23 -TO BE SIGNED AND RETURNED TO SCHOOL

3 MISSION STATEMENT

DuPage Montessori School is an American Montessori school community that follows Dr. Maria Montessori’s philosophy in educating the whole child. Our continuously improving curriculum meets the child’s physical, cognitive and social needs by satisfying their inherent desire to learn and thrive. We carefully create a safe, nurturing and stimulating classroom environment through which our students are given the freedom and encouragement to explore, self correct, develop critical thinking skills and achieve their full potential. Our diverse community celebrates our differences in a cooperative and collaborative environment based on our commitment to human values.

We strive to attract and retain the very best teaching faculty and encourage them to learn and to grow professionally. With our support, the students have a foundation for life which enables them to become independent individuals ready to contribute to the universe they are inheriting.

Vision: DuPage Montessori School is known in our community as the Montessori school that inspires a love of learning and builds a foundation for life. Our staff provides educational excellence that instills a respect for self and our global community.

GOALS OF OUR SCHOOL

The Montessori approach to education is one of educating the whole person. We assist children in acquiring the social skills and self-confidence needed to fulfill their potential. This is accomplished by building on interests, nurturing enthusiasm and making activities available to fit individual needs.

We grow as a school because of the children. As we work with the children, they reveal to us the special gifts with which human beings are endowed, reminding us of our unlimited nature. Together we expand in talent and awareness as we interact with each other and the world in which we live.

Academic achievements occur in a remarkable way because the child’s individual, unique creative abilities are respected. In this environment children love to learn.

We strive to balance freedom and responsibility so that children develop self-discipline. With guidance and support the children can be truly independent beings, ready to function fully in the universe they are inheriting.

Bob and Sharon Breen, Directors

4 PARENT’S ROLE

Parents are invited and encouraged to support the school and participate in activities during the school year. Grandparents are very much welcome to participate in any way as well.

PARENT TASK FORCE Because quality private education exists only with the ﬁnancial support and enthusiasm of parents, DuPage Montessori School has a Parent Task Force. Composed of all the parents in the school, the PTF raises funds for equipment through annual events. It also assists with all major school activities (celebrations, graduation ceremonies, ﬁeld trips, etc.) The PTF meets monthly or more often as events require. In the fall we have the October festival, a family fun event with food, games, a book sale and a magician. In the spring, we will focus on our Annual Auction, which is our biggest fundraising event of the year. All parents are asked to support fundraising events in some way to create and maintain the quality of the school.

ROOM PARENTS The room parents are needed in each classroom. These parents are very important to help organize special events, activities and to assist the teacher in any way possible. Room parents head the phone network for emergencies and special events. Room parents are asked to attend the Parent Task Force Meetings.

ART AND CRAFT PARENTS Parents can assist with special art and craft projects with the children for holidays and throughout the year.

PARENT VOLUNTEERS You as parents are very important to our school and it is important that you are involved. There are many ways you can help. The list above is just a few of the areas where you are needed. We are always looking for parents who have an interest in volunteering on a regular basis in the classroom. If you would like to volunteer in one of the classes or make a special presentation, please talk to your child’s teacher.

5 PARENT EDUCATION

Parenting is a challenge in today’s world. We, as parents, grow and develop along with our children. A Montessori education beneﬁts the whole family as well as the child. The following are designed to draw the school and family closer together. Please attend these events.

*Parent Workshops *Father’s Night *Mother’s Night *Observation of the classrooms *Parent-Teacher Conferences *Involvement in the classroom or after school programs *Involvement in school and holiday events

Any time planned and thought out with your children at home or in school is an education in understanding children. Spending time in the classroom allows you to see how your child functions in the environment and with other children. Children’s behavior at home and at school can vary greatly; consistency in both environments is beneﬁcial for your child.

6 ADMISSIONS

PROCEDURE To be considered for admission, families must complete these steps:

THE SCHOOL VISIT Parents meet with the Administration staff and are given an overview of the school and the school’s curriculum. Parents observe a classroom in session and have an informational tour of the entire program. Parents and Administration discuss the tour and set a time for a child visit.

THE APPLICATION Completed applications, including records from current and former schools, and a nonrefundable registration fee are due before the child may start in the Toddler, Preschool, Kindergarten or Elementary Program.

ELEMENTARY APPLICANTS Elementary applicants must have their school records available for review during the school visit. Elementary students must spend a day participating in the program for which they are applying and will be given a social and academic evaluation.

DuPage Montessori School seeks students who will thrive in our mixed-age environment that offers freedom of choice within limits and supports the development of autonomy, intellectual curiosity, and personal and social responsibility. Families are expected to work with the school in a spirit of collaboration that will support their child and the school’s mission. Families interested in making a long-term commitment to the school are given priority along with siblings of returning students and children with previous Montessori experience.

7 ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL

ARRIVAL Arrival Time: 8:20 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. (unless otherwise arranged for early arrival per Tuition Agreement) Remember to always be responsible for your child until a staff member has contact with your child. We ask parents not to enter the classroom during arrival time. Please leave a message for the teacher if you have questions.

LATE ARRIVALS Parents, please do not come into the class if you are late. Your child is an important part of the class, coming late disrupts your child’s day and the day of their fellow classmates.

DISMISSAL The scheduled morning dismissal time is 11:30 a.m. The extended half-day dismissal is 12:30 p.m. The Kindergarten program ends at 2:30 p.m. Children will be ready to go home at their appointed pick-up time. Children who stay all day will be told to get ready to leave as soon as the staff sees the parent’s car arrive at school.

Please be consistent with your arrival and dismissal times. It is best not to linger too long when arriving or leaving the school. Children will respond to a schedule if the parent is consistent. If you have any questions for the teacher, please call to set up a time to talk after school hours.

If your child needs to leave earlier than their regular pick-up time, please notify the school in advance, so we may have your child ready.

If your child is going to be picked up beyond their scheduled pick-up time, please inform the ofﬁce. Additional charges apply after the set pick-up time.

A child may only be released to a parent or other responsible person designated by the parent in writing or by phone call. Identiﬁcation will be checked by the staff at the time of pick- up. The child will not be released without the parent’s consent.

LATE CHARGES and PICK-UP POLICY A late fee of $8.00 an hour is charged (with a minimum charge of $8.00 after being 15 minutes late) for time beyond the scheduled pick up time.

At 6:00 p.m. the school is closed. If a parent has not picked up a child and cannot be reached, an alternate person will be called from the alternate pick-up form. Additional charges are $1.00 per minute after 6:00 p.m.

If we have not received notiﬁcation that the parent will arrive after 6:00 p.m. and we are unable to reach an alternate pick-up person, we will contact the outside authorities after one hour to help us locate you.

8 PREPARING FOR SCHOOL

BEFORE SCHOOL What the child does in the morning is important. It sets the tone for the day. You can help us get the most from our class time by: - Allowing time for nutritional breakfast (No Sugar - to help the child’s concentration during class time and sleeping at nap time.) - Having a regular schedule and early bedtime that assures plenty of sleep. - Allowing enough time for the child to dress as independently as he or she is able, (The child can set out clothes the night before). - Having a calm and quiet trip to school, so that the child can have a calm day. - Having a calm morning with no television before school will help your child focus during the day. - Do not bring anything to school unless it has been approved. Toys, jewelry, etc. are not allowed. Items may get lost or broken and other children may want to play with them, which is distracting to the classroom. - Please do not send your child to school with gum.

AFTER SCHOOL After school, a general question such as “How was school?” or “What did you do today?” may elicit a spontaneous response from your child and it may not. The class time has been full of experiences for your child and it is difﬁcult for them to isolate one or two activities to tell you. As your child gains new social and mental skills, you will be the recipient of their new expressions. Do not force them before they are ready. They will let you know.

THE CHILD’ S WORK A folder in school holds whatever paperwork has been done. This work may not come home every day. The reason for this is:

- the staff needs to see the child’s progress - the work is not done for approval; it is done for the child’s own achievement - the child may work on one project over a period of time - the child needs to see the progress - sometimes very little classroom activity includes paperwork in the 3-6 classes.

Paperwork begins with kindergarten level where control and mental skills are developed.

Sound books or reading books are taken home with the teacher’s permission and are to be returned the next school day.

9 ATTIRE

These suggestions will assist the children in dressing and undressing with less difﬁculty and allow more time for important activities. The child should wear clothes that take the following into consideration: • Comfortable clothing that allows freedom of movement (play clothes). • Girls are encouraged to wear long pants during the winter and are not required to wear skirts except for celebrations. • Buckles on belts, zip and snap pants, suspenders and overalls are often difﬁcult for children to handle. Elastic waist pants are the best until ages 5-5 1/2 years of age. • Children are encouraged to pick out their daily attire and dress themselves for school.

Whatever the child chooses is ﬁne; do not worry about unusual combinations. Your child can set out the clothes the night before to have your morning departure go easier. Costumes or character clothing are not to be worn at school, as they are distracting. The child may take on the personality or actions of these characters and be unaware of his/her own behavior. Super hero clothing will not be allowed in school. Regular clothing chosen according to the weather is best.

EXTRA CLOTHES Each child is to have a complete change of clothing (labeled) in a labeled plastic shoebox, no bags. The shoebox should contain the following: pants, a shirt, underwear, socks and a plastic bag. When wet clothes are sent home, please return clean clothes to your child’s box the following day. SLIPPERS Your child must have a pair of plain slippers with rubber waterproof soles, easy to get on and off, or slip-on canvas shoes. SHOES Children need to wear shoes they can get on and off by themselves. We require Velcro or slip-on shoes until they are able to tie laces themselves. BOOTS Please bring rain and snow boots as needed. Children will need boots in winter to go outside and play. WINTER ATTIRE We will go outside in winter when it is above 20 degrees. We will not go out if it is too windy or stormy. Children need appropriate winter clothes. SNOW PANTS Snow pants or a snowsuit is required to play outside on cold snowy days. Snow pants are recommended rather than snow suits, as it is easier for the child to dress him/herself. HOODS AND HATS Hoods must have a tight ﬁt and a working drawstring. MITTENS Mittens are encouraged rather than gloves. Attach a string and run it through the arms of the coat.

NO CLIPS. PLEASE LABEL EVERYTHING or it may be lost!

10 COMMUNICATION

PHONE CALLS Teachers are not available during class time. You may leave a voice mail message and the teachers will return calls during lunch or after class hours.

ILLNESS Children with any of the following symptoms should not be in school: 1. Acute cold. 2. Sore throat. 3. Nausea and vomiting. 4. Rash or skin eruption. 5. Signs of listlessness, or weakness, chills, fever -100 degrees plus (within the last 24 hours) or coughing. 6. Swollen glands. 7. Red and watering eyes.

ABSENCES Please call the school before 8:30 A.M. the day the child is going to be absent (sickness, vacation, doctor appointments, etc.) In case of communicable disease (chicken pox, measles, etc.), we want to know your doctor’s recommendation. Please let us know the reason for your child’s absence. After a long absence, 5 days or more, the child may need to readjust to the school routine. We take this into consideration as we welcome them back.

MEDICATION The school must have written parental permission for prescribed medication that is to be given to your child. The medication slips are at the door of each classroom. The parent or guardian must ﬁll out these forms before medication can be given. Important notice: Medications are only administered between 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. Make sure doctor and pharmacist note these times on the medication container. Medication must have a pharmacy label on the container and be dated. Vitamins, store bought medicines and medicines from other countries will not be administered at school.

OUTSIDE TIME If children are well enough to attend school, they are required to go outside with the class. Appropriate dress is required for the varying weather.

EMERGENCY We will get in touch with you as soon as possible, in whatever way we can, to let you know what has happened. If needed, hospital permission forms for treatment may be left at your hospital if you are difﬁcult to contac

11 DISCIPLINE

In the Montessori environment children are guided to develop self-discipline through their work with the classroom materials, their interaction with their peers, and by direct instruction of grace and courtesy by the Head Teacher and classroom assistants. Attempts are made to understand the causes of a child’s behavior and to help them resolve them. Diet, sleep and home factors, such as separation and divorce of parents as well as the arrival of new siblings can play a very important role in a child’s behavior at school.

Discipline is nurtured through offering choices for children to exercise decision making, opportunities for them to help in as many ways as possible, making the environment easy to manage so that they can be responsible for the things they use and by our recognition and respect for the child’s developing abilities.

The Directors have established a step-by-step plan for handling difﬁcult discipline situations, which include conferences and goal setting to achieve a balance in helping the child. 1. One approach is to lead a child to a table and have them work there for a while, bring activities to them rather than having them wander through the class. 2. We may also have a child walk with us as we work with other children in the class, having them watch as we work. 3. As a last resort a child may be asked to sit aside for a while and watch the class, returning to work after a few minutes of watching others.

AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN CHILDREN

Our program believes that early intervention is in the best interest of children, families, and staff. Our school is committed to addressing development and behavioral issues as soon as they arise. If our staff identifies developmental concerns, the parents are promptly contacted. The staff will work with the family to share information, make recommendations, and strategize an individual program for meeting the needs of the child.

Our staff uses positive guidance techniques when working with children. Some behaviors, such as biting, tantrums, sharing issues, or physical aggression, are typical developmental issues that we see in the Preschool environment. For safety and health concerns, we take aggressive behavior seriously. While biting, spitting, hitting, pushing, and kicking can be quite natural responses to frustration in the younger child, children over two years old are expected to have outgrown these behaviors. Thus, they are not tolerated in the Early Childhood program (ages 3-6) or in our Elementary Program and will be treated as a serious disciplinary breach by the teachers and Director.

12 AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOR IN CHILDREN (CON’T)

Our policy for handling behavior challenges is the following:

• The parents will be contacted with detailed information. • The teacher and/or the Director and parents will meet together to share information, strategize an action plan to support the child, and set a time for a follow-up meeting. While suspension seems like an extreme solution, it is actually a useful and common tool in handling preschool misbehavior. It should be regarded by the parent not so much as a punishment, but as an opportunity for the child to forget his/her old pattern and relearn a healthier one. • During the follow-up meeting, the teacher and/or Director and parents will reflect and reassess the action plan and determine what, if any, future measures shall be taken to support the child. At that time, we may suggest collaborating with an outside childhood consultant. • If all of our interventions as well as those made by the family outside of school have not been successful, we may determine that we are unable to meet the needs of the child. After three, serious and aggressive behavior incidents we will ask the family to find an alternate placement for the child.

In the event that the child is exhibiting behavior that poses a danger to other students or staff, the Director will require that the child be picked up from school immediately that day.

Our program celebrates the individuality of each child. We are committed to responding to a wide range of learning styles and needs. It is only on very rare occasions that a child’s behavior may warrant the need to find a more suitable setting for care. Examples of such instance include:

• A child appears to be a danger to him/herself, other children or Preschool staff. • Medical, psychological or social service personnel working with our school determine that continued care at our school could be harmful or not in the best interest of the child. • Any other situation in which the accommodations required for a child’s success and participation in school place an undue burden on our resources.

Because our programs are based on developing partnerships and supporting families, it is only on very rare occasions that a parent/guardian’s actions or requests may warrant the need to find a more suitable setting for their child. Examples of such instances include:

• The parent/guardian fails to abide by our program’s policies. • A parent/guardian demands special services that are not provided to other children and which our school cannot reasonably deliver, including requests that are outside the philosophy of our program. • A parent/guardian is physically or verbally abusive to children, staff, or anyone at DuPage Montessori School.

13 BITING POLICY

For safety and health concerns, we take biting seriously. When it happens, it’s very scary, frustrating, and stressful for children, parents, and teachers. It is also not something to blame on children, parents, or teachers, and there are no quick and easy solutions to it. Biting is common and a developmentally appropriate behavior in young children, especially from 9-30 months. Generally children over the age of 3 have developed more appropriate ways to communicate. Experts in the field of child development report that biting occurs chiefly as a result of a child’s incapacity to communicate. Children bite for a variety of reasons: simple sensory exploration, panic, crowding, seeking to be noticed, or intense desire for a toy. Repeated biting becomes a pattern of learned behavior that is often hard to extinguish because it does achieve results: the desired toy, excitement, attention, etc. Knowing that the effect of their biting will hurt another person is not yet a part of a child of this ages’ mindset, so the “cause-effect” relationship is not internalized. Our teachers plan activities and supervise carefully in order for biting not to happen. There are times, however, when everyone cannot be within immediate reach to prevent a bite. The goal of our policy is to replace the child’s undesirable behavior with a more effective way of communication and to ensure the health and safety of everyone in our program.

The following is a plan of our pre-emptive strategies:

• The biter is immediately removed from the group with a firm NO. The bitten child is consoled and the bitten area washed with soap and water. If necessary, ice is applied to reduce any swelling or bruising. The biter is not allowed to return to play and is talked to on a level that he/she can understand, then redirected. • A written incident report is given to the parents of all children involved when they are picked up that day. The name of a biting child is not released because it serves no useful purpose and can make an already difficult situation more difficult. • We look intensively at the context of each biting incident for pattern, in an effort to prevent further biting behavior • We work with each biting child on resolving conflict or frustration in an appropriate manner. • We try to adapt the environment and work with parents to reduce any child stress. • For infants and toddlers, positive teething activities will be provided to comfort and soothe their gums.

We try to make every effort to extinguish the behavior quickly and to balance our commitment to the family of the biting child to that of other families. Only after we feel we have made every effort to make the program work for the biting child do we consider asking a family to withdraw the child.

14 SUGGESTIONS FROM THE HIDDEN HINGE

The following suggestions are from THE HIDDEN HINGE by Rosa Packard and are intended to help parents with limit setting, these ideas apply to our classroom work, also.

BE OBJECTIVE, NOT PERSONAL: “Books go in this bookcase,” is preferable to, “Put these books in the bookcase for me”.

BE POSITIVE, NOT NEGATIVE: “Use the tricycle, it is your size,” rather than “You are too little to ride the bicycle.”

GIVE THE SOCIAL REASON FOR RULES RATHER THAN FLAT AUTHORITY: “Hang the coat up before someone steps on it and wrinkles it,” rather than “Hang it up”.

GIVE A SOLUTION TO A PROBLEM RATHER THAN A PROHIBITION; “Please move to this side of the table, John, so that Mary will be able to see,” rather than “Don’t stand in Mary’s way, John.”

BE SPECIFIC: Give concrete information using concrete names and commands. “If you hold the card by its edge, it will stay clean,” rather than “Don’t mess up the cards.”

MATCH OBJECTS AND ACTIONS TO YOUR WORDS: “Trays (pause and show) are held in the middle (pause and show) near your waist (pause and show), rather than “Do it this way.”

GIVE AWARENESS OF CONSEQUENCES: “Hitting hurts Peter,” rather than “Don’t hit Peter.” And we add “It is not OK to hit someone.”

ACT AS AN INDIVIDUAL TO DEFEND THE COMMON LAW IN SPECIFIC INSTANCES: “I will not let your hurt John with the stick,” rather than “We don’t hurt people.”

RECOGNIZE THE VALIDITY OF EMOTIONS WHEN YOU LIMIT DESTRUCTIVE ACTIONS. “I know you are angry. You may not hurt Mary,” rather than “Why did you hurt Mary? She is your friend.” Or “I know you are afraid. You must have the scratch cleaned,” rather than “You are a big girl and that little scratch doesn’t hurt.” Or “I know you don’t want to wear your shoes, but you must protect your feet when you walk on sidewalks,” rather than “You don’t want your feet to get all dirty and hurt, do you?” These samples convey the tone and general meaning of good communication with children.

15 LUNCH

ORDERING HOT LUNCH The School offers a ﬁve-day hot lunch program, which is offered through a catering service. Parents may choose a vegetarian menu or a menu that includes meat dishes. Please ﬁll out a hot lunch form if you are interested in this program.

PACKING A LUNCH If you decide to pack a lunch for your child, the parent shall be responsible for the safety of the food brought into the school. We recommend a sandwich with a cold pack. Cold drinks or hot soup may be brought in a thermos to keep them at the appropriate temperature. The staff cannot warm up food. Please do not send: gum, cake, candy, pop, chocolate and other high sugar items. Suggestions for lunch are: sandwich, fresh fruit and fresh salads, soups, chips, milk and 100% fruit or vegetable juice.

NAP TIME

Each child under 5 years old will take a nap on their own labeled cot. Children turning 5 years old will be evaluated on their readiness to participate in the afternoon class. Nap supplies to leave at school: small pillow small blanket bag for nap things (ex: drawstring bag)

LAUNDRY

Every year we request your child’s help and yours to do the laundry for the classroom. This means that we will be sending home the small hand washing towels and a few large towels that are used in the class. Please only use laundry soap and hot water. We ask that you pick up the bag of towels on Friday or the day before a holiday and bring them back the following Monday or next school day. Your child can help separate them by color after they are washed. The large towels may be folded. The children enjoy “helping out” by folding.

*Nap supplies will be sent home on Fridays to be laundered.

16 SAMPLE SNACK LIST FOR YOUR CHILD’S CLASS

Dear Family, Snack is provided by our families. The school assigns two weeks for each family in alphabetical order.

Please bring on this date: ______Please send:

1. ______Gallons of 100% juice. Note:______Juicy Juice brand is very good and you can substitute 2 cans for each gallon. Frozen juice is ﬁne but please make sure it is 100% juice without sugar/fructose added.

2. Fruits and vegetables for children to cut and serve during the week. (Please bring only marked items.) ______apples ______ready-to-eat baby carrots ______oranges ______stalks of celery ______pears ______cucumbers ______bananas ______whole unpeeled carrots

Other:______

3. ______Boxes of 5 oz. Paper cups (100 in each).

4. ______Large packages of paper napkins for the week.

5. ______1 lb. of hard cheese (Colby, mild cheddar, etc.)

6. ______1 lb. Boxes of crackers (containing no lard), varieties of kinds.

7. Miscellaneous: (Please bring only marked items) ______box toothpicks ______cream cheese ______box mini-pretzels ______bunch of ﬂowers ______small tub mild cracker spread ______lemon ______1 lb. bag plain popcorn (already popped)

Other: ______

The entire snack supply may be delivered to school on Friday before the week you have been assigned or on Monday morning as you arrive. Thank you

17 CELEBRATIONS

Children’s Thanksgiving Luncheon, Tuesday before Thanksgiving: The Thanksgiving Lunch is open to all children (including 1⁄2 day students.) Meals will be catered in. We want all children to feel a part of this holiday. We will talk about what we are thankful for in our daily lives.

Celebration of Winter, To Be Announced: The Celebration of Winter will be a candle lighting ceremony in each of the classrooms. Parents are invited to light a candle with their child to celebrate the holiday season spirit.

Celebration of the Heart -Valentine’s Day: The Celebration of the Heart is a time when we focus on appreciation for those we love and who love us. The children make valentine boxes and exchange valentines with everyone in the class. A special snack is provided by several parents.

Spring and Graduation Celebration, June - To Be Announced The Spring Celebration includes songs from a children’s musical performed by the 3-6 and elementary classes. Graduation Celebration is at the end of the school year to acknowledge the children’s accomplishments throughout the year. It includes a graduation ceremony for kindergarten students from Wheaton and kindergarten and 8th grade students from Naperville.

BIRTHDAYS

We celebrate children’s birthdays in school. We have a ceremony that represents the years the child has lived. We light a candle and place it in the center of our circle. This candle represents the sun. The birthday child holds our globe and will walk around the candle (sun) how many years that child has become. Each walk around the candle representing one year as the Earth revolves around the sun.

The child brings a special treat for the class, such as fresh fruit, cheese, or cookies, which we share during the ceremony. No cakes or frosted cupcakes, please!

Seeing pictures of the child’s growth since birth helps us appreciate the time that has passed. The child brings one or two pictures from each year. Please bring pictures mounted on poster board or in a small photo album or on album pages. The pictures will be returned home the following day.

Teachers appreciate a donation from their Class Wish List. These are books and other educational material that will supplement the classroom environment.

18 FIELD TRIPS

The purpose of field trips is to enhance learning. All field trips are age-appropriate. We welcome participation of parents. If you would like to become involved in field trips, please tell your child’s teacher.

Please check your with your child’s teacher to ﬁnd out what the ﬁeld trip fee will be for the school year.

PESTICIDE POLICY

In compliance with the Illinois Department of Public Health’s Pest Control Act for all licensed day care centers, we will conduct routine checks at this facility.

Pesticides will not be applied when children are present and toys and items mouthed or handled by children will be covered/removed from the area prior to the application. Children will be kept out of treated areas for at least two hours after an application.

POLICY ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT

Any instance or report or observation of sexual oriented misconduct, whether physical or verbal, from one child to another must be brought to the attention of the school directors promptly. The directors will document and file details, then proceed according to individual discretion. The incident will be filed separately from the student’s regular file, in a secure place for confidential reference only, and purged after three years.

19 SCHOOL RECORDS AND TUITION POLICIES

STUDENT RECORDS Each student record is conﬁdential. Only parents and guardians may have access to their own child’s school record. Parents/Guardians may release copies of their child’s record for themselves or for another school by signing a release of records form in the school ofﬁce. The school requires 3 full days to make copies of their records.

ANNUAL TUITION AGREEMENT Students are admitted for the full academic school year (mid August to first week of June, see current school calendar). The full academic year tuition is not subject to adjustments for illness, absence, personal vacations, any school holidays (for example: Thanksgiving, Winter & Spring Breaks), withdrawal or dismissal from the school. Staffing and space for the school year is limited to a specific number of students. Our Montessori trained teachers and well-equipped classrooms make for good quality and high expenses. The annual tuition is our only source of income for our not-for-profit school.

LATE CHARGES & RETURNED CHECKS Monthly tuition payments are due on the first of the month. A late charge of $6.00 per day will be charged for tuition that is paid 3 days after the first of the month. For returned checks for insufficient funds there is a $30.00 charge per returned check.

DISENROLLMENT POLICY After tuition & fee payments are over 30 days past-due, your child is automatically disenrolled in the school and will not be allowed to attend class until payment arrangements are made. Du Page Montessori School reserves the right to disenroll a child after two meetings with a parent or guardian to discuss concerns, if the school for any reason does not feel the child ﬁts in with our school program.

WITHDRAWAL POLICY Students accepted are expected to attend for the entire school year and are responsible for the yearly tuition. Families who move out of the area during the school year may withdraw from the school with a minimum of a 30-day notice to the school. Other personal circumstances may apply for a withdrawal with the approval of the directors with a minimum 30-day notice. Tuition is due within that time period of 30 days prior to notiﬁcation of withdrawal. Withdrawal notiﬁcation will not be accepted after April 1st.

SCHOOL DIRECTORS Du Page Montessori School is a not-for-proﬁt educational corporation with Bob and Sharon Breen as school Directors.

20 Naperville School Calendar 2013-2014

August 19 First Full Day of School 20 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (Toddler) 21 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (3-6 yrs.) 22 Parent Orientation 7 p.m. (Elementary) 29 Ice Cream Social 6 p.m.

September 2 No School-Labor Day Holiday 11-12 Picture Days 13 Spirit Day

October 4 October Festival 14 No School-Columbus Day

November 11 No School-Parent / Teacher Conference (Veteran’s Day) 26 Children’s Thanksgiving Celebration 27, 28, 29 No School-Thanksgiving Holiday

December Winter Break (December 23-January 3)

January 6 School Resumes 20 School Closed - Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day 20 Fall 2014 Current Student Registration Begins

February 14 Children’s Celebration of the Heart (Valentine’s Day) 17 No School-President’s Day

March 21 No School - Parent/Teacher Conferences 23 Fun Fair and Auction 24 Summer Registration Begins 8 Last day before Spring Break Spring Break (March 31-April 4)-Daycare Available

April 7 School Resumes

May 26 No School-Memorial Day 29 Last Day of School 30 Daycare Only-Graduation and Spring Celebration (tentative)

June 2 Summer School Begins

21 *Note: As a rule, school does not close for snow days. In the event of a major snowstorm and our staff is unable to make it to school, notification will be posted at the Emergency Closing Center at www.emergencyclosings.com . You may also call 847-238-1234. “THE SCHOOL FOR HEROES”

The Du Page Montessori School Song Words by Ellen O’Keefe, past school parent Music by Ruth Ann Shallert-Wygall Written for Du Page Montessori School, 1990

Welcome to the school for heroes, We are here to help our world in need. Everyone has great work to do, Even if it’s only some small deed.

Heroes need imagination, Heroes need a lot of self-control To know when wrong is disguised as right, And what’s good for the whole.

Heroes never say, “I can’t,” Or that’s too hard for me,” Heroes always say, “I’ll find a way To work it out eventually.”

If you want to be a hero Then you’ll have to practice every day. And if you do some day you’ll say, “I am a hero! I am a hero! I am a hero and I’m on my way!”

22 DuPage Montessori School Verification of Receipt Parent Handbook

I/We, ______, parent(s)/guardians(s) of ______, certify that I/we have received a copy of the “DuPage Montessori School Handbook” and have gone through all the information that it contains pertaining to my child’s school including:

• Guidance and Discipline • Late Pick-Up Policy • Pesticide Policy

Please return to school within 3 school days. This completed form is to be placed in each child’s file at the school. Thank you.

______Signature of Parent(s)/Guardian(s) Date