Mt. Zion Learning Center

186 Will Waters Road

Hazlehurst, GA  31539

912-375-7429

TUITION PRICES

AS LISTED IN PARENT HANDBOOK

(Effective August 1, 2011)

ALL TUITION IS DUE ON MONDAY AS THE CHILD IS SIGNED IN. LATE FEES ARE $10 PER WEEK AND WILL BE ADDED ON TUESDAY MORNING WHEN THE CENTER OPENS. LATE ACCOUNT NAMES ARE GIVEN TO BOTH THE LEARNING CENTER COMMITTEE AND DIRECTOR ON WEDNESDAY MORNING. ACCOUNTS NOT PAID BY FRIDAY ARE DELINQUIENT AND YOUR CHILD WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO STAY UNTIL PAYMENT IS MADE.

Weekly Tuition Prices are as Follows:

 

Full time Full Day is $85 for first child.

Second child is $75.

(No more than 10 hrs per day).

Full Time Half Day is $55 for first child.

Second child is $45.

(No more than 4 hrs per day).

Weekly After School Prices are as Follows:

 

$35 for first child.

Second child is $25.

Drop-In Prices Per Day are as Follows & Please call ahead to see if there is a space for your child before you bring them in:

 

$30 for first child.

Second child is $20.

- - - - - -  ATTENTION  - - - - - -

If you are late picking up your child, a late fee of $5 per minute will be added to your account per child.

PICK UP TIMES

All ½ day students must be picked up by 12:00 noon or dropped off after 2:00 p.m. 

- - - - - NOTICE- - - - -

Please do not drop children off between the hours of 10:30-2:00, due to lunch & children napping. If you need to pick up a child during these hours, please be as quite as possible once entering the Center.

- - - - - - - -NOTICE - - - - - - -

PARENTS PLEASE LABEL EVERYTHING WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME THAT IS BROUGHT INTO THE CENTER INCLUDING CHECKS FOR TUITION!

Thank You,

Mt. Zion Learning Center Committee



Mt. Zion Learning Center

Parent Handbook

                             

Bright from the Start: Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning

 

Important Information for Parents and Guardians



 

 

 

 

 

 

(August 2011)

 

PASTOR

 

LEARNING CENTER COMMITTEE

Eddie Clements (Chairman) 912-375-7670

Glynn Rentz 912-367-0904

Pam Hutchison 912-375-3715

Glenda Morris 912-375-2137

Kevin Waters 912-375-2664

OUR DIRECTORS   

 

Learning Center Director: Deneta Lightsey

Assistant Directors: Priscilla Waters & Dale Brewer

STATEMENT OF DOCTRINAL BELIEFS

 

1. THE SCRIPTURES:  We believe that the entire Bible, all 66 books of the combined Old and New Testaments are verbally inspired by God and are inerrant in the original writings. Through the providence of God, the Word of God has been protected and preserved, and is the only infallibleand authoritativerule of faith and practice (2 Timothy 3:16-17; 2 Peter 1:20-21).

2. GOD:  We believe that there is only one true, living, sovereign, holy, and eternally existent God. He exists in three co-equal persons - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit - each being a distinct Person and with a distinct function, but all of one essence and all possessing, the same nature, perfections, and attributes. The triune God is the creator and sustainer of all things, the source of all truth, and is worthy of worship, glory, and obedience (Deuteronomy 6:4-5; Genesis 1:31).              

 

3. JESUS CHRIST:  We believe that Jesus Christ is God. He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, performed many miracles, shed His blood on the cross to pay the debt for our sins, was buried, bodily resurrected, ascended to the right hand of the Father, and will return literally, visibly, and personally, in glory and power (John 1:1-3; Matthew 1:18-25; Philippians 2:5-9; Colossians 1:15; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Acts 1:11).

4. HOLY SPIRIT:  We believe that the Holy Spirit is God, co-equal and co-existent with the Father and the Son. He is the chief convictor of sin, the chief agent of regeneration, and sanctification. The Holy Spirit lives within every believer and empowers every believer to live a godly life (John 14:16-19; 16:7-15; 1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Romans 8:9, 11; Titus 3:5).

5. MANKIND:  We believe that in the beginning God created mankind in His image, and man is not in any sense the product of evolution. Mankind was originally created with the ability to live perfectly for God’s glory (Genesis 1:27; 31).

 

6. SIN:  We believe that Adam, the first man, sinned by disobedience. This act resulted in the fall of all mankind; therefore, all people have sinned and lost their ability to live for the glory of God. Every person’s sin incurs both physical and spiritual death until there is forgiveness and salvation by the grace of God (Genesis 3:1-24; Romans 3:10-23; 5:12-21; 6:23).

 

 7. SALVATION:  We believe the salvation of lost and sinful people is a free gift of God’s grace apart from human works, based solely upon Christ’s vicarious and atoning death, effected by the regenerating work of the Holy Spirit, and received only through faith in the person and finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross and His resurrection from death (Ephesians 2:8-10; 2 Corinthians 5:21).

 

8. THE CHURCH:  We believe that the church is the body of Christ and the family of God. It is made up of saved and baptized believers, who regularly join together for worship, fellowship, and ministry (Matthew 16:18; 1 Corinthians 12:12-14; Hebrews 10:25).

 

9. EVANGELISM:  We believe that it is the responsibility and privilege of every Christian to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ and to go forth seeking souls for the cause of Christ (Matthew 28:18-20; Acts 1:8).

 

10. THE HOME:  In addition to these important beliefs, we also believe that God has given the parents and the home the responsibility to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (Ephesians 6:4; Proverbs 22:6). We believe that a consistent and whole education will occur when home, church, and school work closely together and are in agreement on the basic concepts of life.

MT. ZION LEARNING CENTER PARENT HANDBOOK / POLICY

Welcome to the Mt. Zion Learning Center Family!

The Learning Center is a ministry for the community and the families of Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church.  The Church is a fundamental Bible Church with teaching and preaching designed to help apply God’s truth to daily living.  It offers a full range of ministries to families and you are invited to attend at any time!  The worship service begins at 11:00 a.m. with Sunday school for all ages at 10:00 a.m. Sunday night services begin at 7:00 p.m. and Discipleship Training for all ages is at 6:00 p.m. On Wednesday we meet together at 7:00 p.m. for a time of sharing and prayer services while the children and teens are taught in designated classes. Team Kids & Youth programs also begin at 6:30 p.m.        

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

 

Mt. Zion Learning Center is dedicated to providing the highest quality of child care in a Christian environment.  We are a LEARNING CENTER, not a baby-sitting service!  To that end, we have made commitments to hiring and retaining only the best available staff that love children and will give them their absolute best every day.  Ages of children served are newborns, ages 6 weeks to age twelve.

We welcome comments and constructive criticism from parents that will facilitate us in maintaining our high standards and that will help your child, as an individual student, reach milestone after milestone.

 

CURRICULUM

 

Visit: http://www.abeka.com

 

We are a LEARNING CENTER!  Developmental needs of each child are met in the following areas:  physical and motor, language, intellectual, social, emotional, and spiritual.  This is accomplished by a set curriculum designed for each age level.  The A Beka Curriculum is used with age’s one through first grade.  This curriculum is unashamedly Christian and traditional in its approach to education.  The material used is based upon the Bible and is prepared by talented Christian scholars highly qualified by both training and experience in classroom teaching.

The infants will be stimulated through music, talk, and floor games.  The toddlers and two year old classes will learn shapes, basic colors, counting, and ABC’s.  Each class will have goals to work toward and use the A Beka books available for their age group.  All the children will enjoy art, crafts, and music.  They will be taught Bible stories and Bible verses daily.  Prayer will also be an important part of their day. 

The three year old classes are taught the names, sounds, and pictures of the alphabet; scope and sequence.  They learn to count to 50, and to recognize the numbers one through twenty-five.  They also begin printing the alphabet.  Included in the curriculum are lessons on science, poetry, music, and truths from the Bible.  Daily devotion and prayer is given in each class.  Arts and crafts are taught as well.

The Pre-K, Kindergarten, and 1st Grade classes are taught the basics in reading, writing, numbers, and adding; science, music and poetry, arts and crafts and truths from the Bible. Daily devotions and prayer times are part of these classes and the children memorize Bible scriptures weekly.

Both the staff and administration of Mt. Zion Learning Center are committed to giving the best possible training to your children.  It is our desire to teach the children the love of God, His Word, and Christian values and principals along with the traditional subject matters appropriate for their ages.

 

 

 

 

 

 

WE HAVE A STRONG CHRISTIAN EMPHASIS

 

The basic objective and primary goal of our Center is to provide the finest educational experience possible for these age groups through a Christian context and atmosphere.  Our aim is to provide the kind of quality and loving care that every parent should want to give for his or her own child. This emphasis is evident throughout our Center.  All of our staff are committed Christians, active in their own Churches, and require recommendations from their Pastor’s before they can ever be hired.  They also share their personal faith in a variety of ways throughout the Center; however, no child is pressured regarding his or her faith and no denominational emphasis is given in any class.  We also follow this written policy:

THE MT. ZION LEARNING CENTER IS A MINISTRY THAT WAS BEGUN BY MT. ZION BAPTIST CHURCH AND WE CONTINUE THE EMPHASIS ON SPIRITUAL VALUES AND PURPOSES FOR WHICH THE SCHOOL WAS FOUNDED.  IT IS THEREFORE EXPECTED THAT EACH STAFF MEMBER AND TEACHER, IN PARTICULAR, WILL SEEK TO REINFORCE THE BASIC PRINCIPLES OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH BY LEADING THE CHILDREN IN DAILY BIBLE READINGS AND/OR STORIES ALONG WITH HAVING PRAYER AT ALL APPROPRITATE TIMES SUCH AS MEAL TIME. OUR STAFF AND TEACHERS WILL ALSO REINFORCE FAITH IN GOD AS THE CREATOR WHILE PLACING EMPHASIS ON THE BIBLE AS GOD’S REVELATION TO MAN, AND IN JESUS CHRIST AS GOD’S ONLY SON AND OUR SAVIOR.  HOWEVER, RELIGIOUS TRAINING WILL NOT INCLUDE MATTERS THAT ARE DISTINCTIVELY DENOMINATIONAL, BUT WE WILL SEEK TO REINFORCE THE BASIC BELIEFS, WHICH ALL CHRISTIANS HOLD AS THE HISTORIC CHRISTIAN FAITH.  RESPECT FOR PEOPLE OF ALL DENOMINATIONS, ALL RACES, AND ALL NATIONAL ORIGINS WILL BE DEMONSTRATED AND TAUGHT ON A DAILY BASIS.

As a special note, daily class time includes Scripture reading and prayer. Prayer is also given before each meal.  And, Chapel services will be conducted each week.

In the final analysis, the lasting value of our Learning Center may not be immediately evident in some areas; however, it will be evident in changed attitudes, in Bible verses memorized that will come back into memory during later years, and in the directions which these young lives have been pointed by their experiences here.  Mt. Zion Learning Center will truly be shaping the future of an unknown number of lives by influencing them each day they are in attendance here.  We are helping YOU build the leaders of tomorrow!  And, we thank you so much for choosing MZLC for your child.  We are all here to be of service to God, by being of service to you.

DISCIPLINE POLICY    

Discipline is part of life and is to instruct the correct behaviors that teach a child to focus on the future.  Through positive discipline a child will feel security, demonstrate self-control, obtain wisdom, and develop a positive self-esteem.

In addition to physical and safety needs, children have very important needs that must be met in order for them to feel loved and secure.  When these needs are met appropriately, children behave better and there are less discipline problems.  It is a proven fact that we all feel the need for love.  Love provides vital strength for living and when a child is shown that they are loved it makes them feel special and good about themselves.  We love the children here at Mt. Zion Learning Center by hugging them and by daily praising them. We demonstrate touching of the hands, arms, or shoulders by shaking hands and clapping for behaviors that are correct. We teach with body language by using eye contact, smiling often, and sitting with them on their level and we accept them as they are. 

Children also need order and this is why we have a structured program for each age group.  Rules and consequences are posted and reviewed daily with all children.  They are taught right from wrong.  If a child consistently misbehaves and disobeys after using redirection and verbal warnings then a time out is used. Children two years and older are separated from the group for one minute per age of the child.  If the child does not show any signs of compliance, he or she is sent to the office where the Director or Pastor talks to them. If warranted, a behavior form will be completed and sent home describing information about the problem(s) the child has had. Then, if needed, the Director or Pastor and parent(s) can sit down together and discuss the child’s behavior. And, please understand that after the third behavioral form is sent home for the same problem the child will be dismissed from the school.

We sincerely ask the parents to help us and to reinforce the rules of our Center – and remember; we do not EVER spank or hit a child here at the center as a type of discipline, and we do not yell or use negative words.

Parents will be contacted by phone if the child is totally defiant or out of control when being corrected, hits or kicks the teacher, director, or administrator, and/or spits at them or on them.  And, if once the parent is contacted, the child does not show remorse or a changed spirit the parent will be asked to take the child home.

Please understand that discipline is a necessary part of growing up.  We want to teach correct behaviors.  Children learn through consistency, firmness, patience, and the showing of love.  Discipline directly impacts the future.  Its focus is not on the misbehavior of the present, but on ensuring that the child understands that his or her misbehavior cannot reappear in the future – it must be over! 

Now, concerning biting! With some children this is a very serious problem. Our staff will at all times try to work with the child and the family to stop the biting. Parents may have to be called and asked to pick up the child as soon as the occurrence happens. If this happens, the child may return to class on the following day. If the biting continues to be a serious problem, the child may be subject to dismissal from the Center.

The following are used as positive discipline techniques by the Centers staff:  1) eye contact, 2) redirection, 3) fun and laughter, 4) consequences, and 5) praising through positive behavior. 

And, by working together as a team to help your child learn that we must all follow rules or pay the consequences, your child will be successful and of course, we gladly welcome your suggestions and ideas.

INTRODUCTION

 

In the following pages, “We” refers to the Mt. Zion Learning Center. “You/Your” refers to the parent/guardian and/or responsible party, “Child” refers to a child or children, and “He” refers to both male and female.

HOURS OF OPERATION

 

JANUARY - DECEMBER:   we are authorized and licensed to operate only between the hours of 6:30 a.m. and 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  A late fee of $5.00 per minute will be charged to your account if you are late picking your child up.  AND REMEMBER, TO AVOID INTERRUPTION OF LUNCH AND NAP-TIME, CHILDREN SHOULD BE BROUGHT TO THE CENTER BEFORE 10:30 A.M. OR AFTER 2:00 P.M.  Again, we cannot keep your child over 10 hours per day without the possibility of being fined; therefore, if you leave your child for more than 10 hours you will also be charged five dollars for every minute over the ten hours.

CALENDAR TIMING PERMITTING: THE CENTER WILL BE CLOSED FOR THESE HOLIDAYS:  New Year’s Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the Friday after, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day. (When Christmas Day and/or New Year’s Day falls on Saturday, the center will be closed the Friday before the Holiday; when they fall on Sunday, the center will be closed on Monday following the Holiday.)   AS A REMINDER A CALENDAR AND/OR NOTICE WILL BE PROVIDED AND/OR POSTED NOTIFYING YOU OF THE ACTUAL DAYS WE ARE TO BE CLOSED.

ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES

 

Come into the school with your child each day and TAKE THEM TO THE APPROPRIATE ROOM.  TAKE THEIR BOOKBAGS/DIAPER BAGS TO THE APPROPRIATE ROOM ALSO – DO NOT LEAVE BAGS IN THE LUNCHROOM OR THE PLAYROOM OR IN THE HALLWAY. Be sure the child is with a staff member before you leave and give the teacher any special information needed about your child for the day. DO NOT ALLOW YOUR CHILD TO RUN AROUND THE CENTER UNATTENDED!

PLEASE REMEMBER TO SIGN YOUR CHILD IN WHEN YOU DROP THEM OFF IN THE MORNING AND SIGN THEM OUT WHEN YOU PICK THEM UP IN THE AFTERNOON! THE PERSON DROPPING OFF AND/OR PICKING UP A CHILD MUST ALSO INITIAL THE TIMES THEY ARE SIGNED IN AND OUT.

 

You will pick up your child from their classroom/lunchroom or the playground/playroom.  Teachers and/or staff cannot send children out to the car so do not ask or wait for this to be done.

 

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

 

By enrolling in this Center, you authorize us to contact your physician and/or hospital and to take whatever emergency medical procedures we deem necessary. Understand that this is part of this agreement and the medical emergency form must be in our hands the very day the child starts to attend classes here. You are also responsible for all charges incurred by your physician, hospital, and/or medical transportation.

The CURRENT name, address, and telephone number of a local physician and the name of a person other than you who may be called in an emergency must be on the form. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU UPDATE THIS INFORMATION AS IT CHANGES – DO NOT LEAVE US WITH DISCONNECTED AND/OR CHANGED PHONE NUMBERS ON FILE. IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO UPDATE THIS INFORMATION!

Should an emergency arise that requires your child be seen by a doctor immediately, he or she will be taken to the Jeff Davis Hospital unless you state otherwise on the enrollment forms.

ATTENDANCE

 

Since we are a Learning Center we have a precise daily schedule.  Your cooperation will help us keep it for the benefit of your child.  We open at 6:30 a.m.; however, class time, which is learning time, starts at 8:00 a.m. Please have your child present by that time to avoid disrupting the class and to ensure that your child will receive the maximum benefits from the lessons.  The children that come in early will be given breakfast, if desired, and breakfast ends at 7:45 a.m.; children then have time to assemble and play games or with toys until class begins.  They will go to their appropriate class by 7:55 a.m.  For those children, to whom this applies, they will potty at 8:00 a.m. And, all classes then prepare for devotion and their learning time begins. Please do not bring your child to the Center after 10:30 a.m. unless you have talked with the Director and have it preapproved for days when your child may have a doctor or dentist appointment, etc.

REGULAR ATTENDANCE IS IMPORTANT FOR ALL CHILDREN OF ALL AGES.  PLEASE NOTIFY THE OFFICE AS SOON AS POSSIBLE IF YOUR CHILD IS GOING TO BE ABSENT FOR THE DAY. AGAIN, THIS IS A LEARNING CENTER – IT IS AN EDUCATIONAL FACILITY THAT REQUIRES ATTENDANCE BY OUR STATE LICENSING AGENCY.

SICKNESS AND CONTAGIOUS DISEASES INCLUDING HEAD LICE

 

For the protection of all children, your child should be kept at home (WE CANNOT ACCEPT HIM or HER AT SCHOOL) if he or she shows any the following symptoms:  A Fever (100 degrees or more), Diarrhea, Vomiting, a Rash, Green Nasal Discharge, Discharge from the Eye or Ear that indicates infection, and live lice or nits.  You should exercise every caution and keep your child at home should other unusual symptoms occur.  Please check our communicable disease chart if you have any questions about anything in this section.

If a child becomes ill during the day at school, he will be placed in an isolated place (usually in the Director’s office on a cot to lie down), and you will be contacted and required to pick the child up and to take the child home.  AND, REMEMBER A CHILD MUST BE FEVER FREE AND MUST NOT HAVE BEEN VOMITING FOR 24 HOURS BEFORE RETURNING TO THE CENTER!

If your child has a contagious disease he should be kept at home and THE FACT OF HIS CONDITION SHOULD BE REPORTED TO THE SCHOOL!  This includes sicknesses such as strep throat, pin worms, staph infections, viral infections, infected ears and glands, measles, mumps, chicken pox, scarlet fever, head lice, etc.  Remember, these diseases are among those categorized as “highly contagious”.

No medications will be given without a permission form for the medicine. The form must be completed, signed, and dated by a parent.  PLEASE be sure that you state if your child has ever had an adverse reaction to any medication and has any known allergies.  If a reaction is noticed after medication is given you will be notified immediately.

Concerning head lice: WE HAVE A NO NIT/NO BUG POLICY. ONCE YOUR CHILD HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED AS HAVING EITHER NITS OR BUGS, HE OR SHE WILL BE REQUIRED TO BE CHECKED AT THE CENTER BY THE DIRECTOR BEFORE BEING ALLOWED TO STAY; IF NEEDED, THE CHILD MAY ALSO BE REFERRED TO THE HEALTH DEPARTMENT FOR SCREENING AND/OR TREATMENT. Notice: The Health Department may charge you for these services and have told us that if a child has medical coverage through Medicaid and/or Peach Care, you can receive the necessary treatment shampoos for free.

 

HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

 

Children must receive all required immunizations at the scheduled times and the center must keep a record on file at all times.  Upon enrollment we must have a copy of your child’s immunization card or attendance will be denied.  Also, it is your responsibility to see that the school records are kept current as soon as your child has received a series of shots – please obtain a new copy and turn it in to our staff. Per state licensing rules, when your child’s shot record expires, you have only 10 days to replace it for the Center’s files. If you have not done this, within this timeframe, your child cannot remain at the Center.

 

As previously stated, no medication, including aspirin, Tylenol, or cough medicine can be administered by the school staff without written permission from you.  A medicine form must be completed, signed, and dated by you before medication can be given to your child. Likewise, all medication must be in the original container and labeled with the date, child’s name, and instructions for administering the medication and the name of the physician if the medication is a prescription.  The school is required to administer prescription medication according to the label directions.  Directions for non-prescription medications can be different from the label if approved in writing by you or your doctor.  Expired medication cannot be given, please do not bring it.

PLEASE MARK ALL ITEMS – CUPS, WIPES, BLANKETS, COATS, SWEATERS, JACKETS, HATS, CHECKS, AND CLOTHING WITH YOUR CHILD’S NAME.  IT IS IMPOSSIBLE TO KEEP EVERYTHING SEPARATED UNLESS THEY ARE CLEARLY IDENTIFIED.  WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE IF YOUR CHILD’S ITEMS ARE LOST OR PAYMENTS ARE NOT APPLIED TO YOUR CHILD’S ACCOUNT BECAUSE IT WAS NOT IDENTIFIED!

 

FOOD

 

Breakfast, lunch, and snacks are included in the fees stated.  Weekly menus are posted on the wall above the sign-in sheets.  Breakfast, lunch, and an afternoon snack are served daily supplying the children with two-thirds of their recommended daily nutrition allowance. 

Infants that drink whole milk and eat table food can be fed from the kitchen; however, parents must furnish baby food and formula for infants not able to eat regular food and/or drink regular milk. Likewise, any child who requires a special diet must have that food and or drink supplied by the parents. Examples would include lactose free, gluten free, and any special diet needed due to allergies, etc.

CLOTHING

Please, remember to keep a complete extra set of clothing appropriate for the season at the school at all times.  If your child is being potty trained, more than one pair of training pants and clothes are needed.  Children from birth through two years need an extra change of clothes DAILY.  Likewise, if your child is older, but still soils their clothes from time to time it is likely it will happen here also so please bring them extra sets of clothes just in case of accidents. Dress your child in clothing that is comfortable, washable, and appropriate for the season.  If applying to your child per their age – they must have diapers, pull-up, wipes, and rash creams on hand. It is your responsibility to provide this on a daily basis.

Please dress your child for movement! They have fun while here at the Center – we play, run, crawl, jump, dance, and walk during the day. Children need to be dressed in comfortable clothing appropriate for the activities they participate in. And, at times we do activities that cause clothes to become soiled such as painting, eating watermelon, etc. We take every precaution to prevent spills, but this is inevitable with young children and they simply must have clothes here to change in to. So, please be sure they have a complete set of clothes to change into (including socks and underwear).

 

Likewise, children must have shoes on at all times, bare feet are not allowed – AND WE STRONGLY ADVISE AGAINST WEARING FLIP FLOPS BECAUSE WE ARE CONSISTENTLY HAVING CHILDREN WHOSE FLIP FLOPS SLIDE OFF AND TOES ARE BEING STEPPED ON. At times, flip flops have even broken. An alternative is to wear sandals that strap onto the feet and remain on; however, open-toed shoes still allow toes to be stepped on and injured. IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT ALL CHILDREN WEAR SHOES THAT ALLOW THEM TO RUN AND PLAY WITHOUT HAVING THEIR TINY FEET INJURED.   

 

SECURITY ITEMS

 

If your child has a security item – such as a pacifier, a blanket, a stuffed animal, a pillow, etc., please make sure it is clearly marked.   

ITEMS THAT MAY NOT BE BROUGHT INCLUDE GUM, CANDY, MONEY, TOYS, ELECTRONIC GAMES OR ELECTRONICS OF ANY KIND, AND BOOKS.  SUCH ITEMS BECOME A SOURCE OF CONFLICT.  WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ITEMS BROUGHT FROM HOME.  AND, CHILDREN ARE NEVER ALLOWED TO BRING TOY GUNS OR WEAPONS OF ANY KIND.

 

NAPS

 

Each child is required to bring a small blanket for nap time. Cots will be provided by the school. Each blanket should be labeled with the child’s name and will be sent home on Friday to be washed and it needs to be returned on Monday. If the blanket needs to be washed at times during the week the Center staff will do so.

 

FIELD TRIPS

 

Field trips are considered an important part of the educational program of our school and will be taken periodically to nearby places.  The school provides the same adequate responsible adult supervision for these excursions as is provided while at school.  Scheduled trips and cost will be announced on the monthly calendar printed for each class and signs will be posted.  Please be sure to sign and return your child’s permission slip each time it is sent home.  If not signed and returned your child will not be able to participate on the field trip. Children ages 3 through 12 may go on field trips, when arranged for their group.  All transportation for such trips is provided by the school in an insured van with a licensed driver.

PHOTOGRAPHS AND PUBLICITY

 

Visit: www.mtzlc.com

Photographs of the children in our program may be taken from time to time and may appear in our local newspaper, magazines, brochures, advertisements, or other publicity material for our Center – this includes on our Center’s Web Site and on Face Book (once we have these pages in operation).  Likewise, by having your child attend MZLC, you are giving your permission for these photographs including your child’s name to be used without compensation of any kind. We also reserve the right to include your child’s full name on our roll sheets, sign in sheets, monthly calendars, program bulletins, school play bulletins, and etc., including all things in direct relation to the Learning Center.

 

 

SECURITY

 

The school must have on file the name and phone numbers of each person who has permission to pick up your child from school.  The school will not release a child to anyone not authorized ahead of time.  We must be notified in advance if someone other than you or the responsible party is to pick up the child.  THE PARENT MUST SEND A NOTE OR CALL EACH DAY WHEN SOMEONE OTHER THAN THEMSELVES WILL BE PICKING UP THEIR CHILD.

BAD WEATHER/EMERGENCY PROCEDURES

 

Fire drills and tornado drills are conducted on a regular basis.  All personnel are trained for such emergencies before they are hired as part of the staff. In the event of a fire or tornado that would damage or destroy our building beyond safe use, children would be evacuated to a nearby shelter, school gym, or worship center.  A staff person will be on the premises to direct all calls or persons to the designated places.  In the event of an emergency, the police and fire departments are immediately notified, and parents are contacted as quickly as possible. If an Emergency situation should occur the Director or Assistant Director will transport your child to the nearest safety shelter or seek medical attention. If medical transportation is unavailable, a school van or an approved, previously inspected vehicle will be used for transportation. Our emergency plans have been developed and are posted on the board in the foyer for you to review.

LISTED BELOW ARE OUR EMERGENCY PROCEDURES IN REGARDS TO THE CENTER

 

IN CASE OF FIRE:  Get the children out of the Learning Center. Call the fire department, call the parents, and call DHR-Child Care Licensing within 24 hrs.

IN CASE OF SEVERE WEATHER:  Remain Calm.  Move the children into the hallway away from windows.  In case of tornado, have the children place their heads between their knees with their backs to the wall.  Listen to the radio for weather updates.

IN CASE OF LOSS OF ELECTRICAL POWER:  Remain Calm.  Call the power company to report power loss.  If in hot weather, open the windows if possible.  In cooler weather, put on warmer clothing and get blankets out for the children.  Call the parents if power will be out for an extended period of time.

IN CASE OF LOSS OF WATER:  Have bottles of water available for drinking purposes.  Call a plumber.  If water will be lost for extended times have water available for hand washingand toileting purposes.  Call the parents if the water will remain out of service for an extended period of time.

IN CASE OF SERIOUS INJURY TO A CHILD:  Call 911 or the police.  Keep the child calm and comfortable until medical service arrives.  Call the child’s parents to report the injury.  Report the injury to DHR-Child Care Licensing within 24 hrs.

IN CASE OF LOSS OF CHILD:  Call 911 or the police.  Call the child’s parents to report the loss. Keep the other children calm.  Call the immediate neighbors to help assist in the search.  Look everywhere in the Learning Center, Church, yards and surrounding areas as a beginning point.

IN CASE OF THE DEATH OF A CHILD:  Call 911 or the police.  Call the child’s parents.  Keep the other children calm.  Report the death to the DHR-Child Care Licensing within 24 hrs.

INSURANCE & SPECIAL NOTICES

This facility does not carry liability insurance coverage sufficient to protect your child in the event of an injury, etc. If your child is injured here, transported or taken to the hospital, etc., you are responsible for all bills related.

In the event that a child should wander away from the center or away from the group during a field trip, the police will be contacted as well as the parent as soon as possible.  The center staff is trained to do all that is possible to keep this from happening.  The Child Care Licensing office will also be contacted immediately.

In the event of any serious illness or injury requiring hospitalization or professional medical attention, or the death of a child in care of the center, 911 will be called immediately, the parents will be contacted next and the Child Care Licensing office will also be contacted as soon as possible.

PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

 

Teachers enjoy taking time to discuss your children with you; however, he or she cannot interrupt their class for this purpose. If you wish to speak to the teacher, you must contact us and first make an appointment to do so. If you have a concern at any time, please be sure to inform the Director about it immediately.

The administration and staff are committed to giving the best possible care to your children.  Their love, concern, and personal attention provide your child with a sense of security and stability.  We are constantly evaluating our performance in an effort to improve it.  EXCELLENCE IS OUR GOAL!

The more involved you are, the better we like it!  We appreciate your complements when we do a good job.  WE WELCOME YOUR CONSTRUCTIVE CRITICISM THAT WILL HELP US DO A BETTER JOB!

SPECIAL PROGRAMS

 

Each year, near the end of the year, the children present an End of the Year Program for the parents.  All children, infants through school age, are included in the program. Also, each year, near the end of the year the Pre-K classes graduate to kindergarten and the kindergarten classes also graduate.  Each class presents a program featuring some of their academic achievements and the teachers and children work very hard in preparing and presenting these programs.  Your support and attendance makes it all worthwhile!  Invite all your family and friends to come and see your child shine!

 

SCHEDULE OF TUITION & OTHER FEES: (Includes breakfast, lunch, and snack)

 

Weekly Tuition Prices are as Follows:

 

Full time Full Day is $85 for first child.

Second child is $75. (No more than 10 hrs per day).

Full Time Half Day is $55 for first child.

Second child is $45. (No more than 4 hrs per day).

After School Tuition Prices are as Follows:

 

$35 for first child.

Second child is $25.

Drop-In Tuition Prices Per Day are as Follows & Please call ahead to see if there is a space for your child before you bring them in:

 

$30 for first child.

Second child is $20.

Parents, if your child will not be attending regularly during the summer months, BUT will be returning when school starts back in August; there will be a holding fee for your child’s spot that you are required to pay.  If you do not pay this holding fee, a spot may not be available for your child upon returning to the Center in August. The fee will be $120.00 and is due the last day the child attends for the current school year. Remember, this fee guarantees your child’s spot for the next school year.  And, this only applies if your child is NOT attending during the summer. If your child IS attending during the summer you are not required to pay the holding fee, but instead will pay regular tuition prices.

OTHER FEES:

 

1.    Holding Fee: Discussed in above paragraph. This is to hold your child’s spot for the next school year; and ONLY has to be paid if your child is NOT attending the Center during the summer.

2.    Supply/Book Fees: $15 for Nursery, $30 for Toddlers, $60 for 2 year old, $120 for 3 year old, $120 for 4 year old, and for the Kindergarten and First Grade classes the fees are based upon the current year’s curriculum prices.

After school children will need to ride the Jeff Davis County School Bus (currently # 20) to the Center or be brought by a parent/guardian.  The Center will have a staff member meet children at the Center’s door and take them to the after school area.  In the event the Center will not be open all parents will be notified.

THERE ARE NO DISCOUNTS OR CREDITS GIVEN FOR STATED LEGAL HOLIDAYS, OR FOR CLOSING DUE TO ACTS OF GOD.

NOTICE: If you are a parent (single, married, or a guardian) eligible for services through your local Department of Family and Children Services, such as Food Stamps, Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids, Tanif, etc., you can apply for the CAPS Program to help assist you in paying for daycare. You can apply at your local DFACS office or at www.compass.ga.gov which is the Georgia Compass website. However, you must understand that if CAPS pays us any amount (full or partial) for your child you are responsible for the remainder due on your account. Likewise, if you are dropped from the CAPS Program for any reason, you are responsible to pay the amount due in full on your account immediately. Also, remember, Maximus (which funds the CAPS Program) requires us to notify both CAPS and DFACS if you fail to pay your portion due for tuition for the current week. We are required by law to comply with this requirement and will do so.

MAKE ALL CHECKS PAYABLE TO MT. ZION LEARNING CENTER OR MZLC FOR SHORT. IF YOU HAVE A RETURNED CHECK, THERE WILL BE A $40.00 RETURN CHECK FEE DUE AND PAYABLE IMMEDIATELY. IF YOU HAVE TWO RETURNED CHECKS YOU WILL BE ON A CASH BASIS ONLY. REMEMBER TO WRITE YOUR CHILD’S NAME ON THE CHECK AS THE MEMO!

 

 

FINANCIAL POLICIES

 

Tuition and fees are schedules based on the ANNUAL COST of providing care for your child.  Tuition is due weekly on Monday as your child is signed in to the Center. For your convenience, you may still pay by the month, but payment must be made on the first Monday of the month or it is late. AND BE SURE THAT YOU PAY FOR THE EXTRA (5TH) WEEK THAT IS IN SOME MONTHS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR. THIS WEEK IS NO LONGER FREE.

ATTENTION: CHANGES MADE TO OUR PAYMENT POLICIES’ ARE AS FOLLOWS: PAYMENTS ARE DUE WEEKLY ON MONDAY WHEN YOUR CHILD IS SIGNED IN. YOU CAN PAY FOR THE ENTIRE MONTH ON THE FIRST MONDAY OF THE MONTH IF YOU LIKE. THERE ARE NO DISCOUNTS FOR PAYING BY THE MONTH OR PAYING IN ADVANCE. THERE ARE NO DISCOUNTS OR FREE WEEKS FOR VACATION TIME (THE CENTER STILL HAS TO HOLD YOUR CHILD’S SEAT EVEN IN THEIR ABASENCE). LATE FEES ARE ADDED TO YOUR ACCOUNT ON TUESDAY MORNING. LATE ACCOUNT STATUSES ARE GIVEN TO THE LEARNING CENTER COMMITTEE AND DIRECTOR ON WEDNESDAY. ACCOUNTS NOT PAID BY FRIDAY ARE CONSIDERED DELINQUENT AND YOUR CHILD WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO STAY AT THE CENTER UNTIL ALL PAYMENTS ARE MADE.

WHEN A DEPOSIT IS PAID FOR A SLOT TO BE HELD FOR YOUR CHILD IN A CERTAIN CLASSROOM, IT IS A NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT. LIKEWISE, IF YOUR CHILD ENROLLS AND THEN DROPS LEAVING YOU WITH A CREDIT ON YOUR ACCOUNT – THIS IS ALSO NON-REFUNDABLE. AND, WHEN PAYING FOR ANYTHING, BRING THE CORRECT CHANGE BECAUSE WE DO NOT KEEP ANY CASH ON HAND. IF YOU DO NOT HAVE THE CORRECT CHANGE, WE WILL GLADLY CREDIT YOUR TUITION ACCOUNT.

Because our program and licensing requirements require us to employ staff based on the number of children enrolled, WE CANNOT GIVE TUITION REFUNDS FOR THE DAYS YOUR CHILD IS ABSENT. We are required by law to meet specific set teacher/student ratios. These ratios are why, once enrolled, a parent has to pay for that child’s seat regardless of if that child attends or not. If or when your child is absent, even if we have a new enrollee to come in, we cannot give your child’s seat away. Consequently, we end up losing money because if our classroom is filled on the roll, but with empty seats – we have to turn potential new enrollees away. We are obligated to hold your child’s seat; therefore, you are obligated to pay for that seat even when the seat is empty.

ANY AND ALL TUITION PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS ARE TO BE APPROVED BY THE CENTER’S COMMITTEE – NOT BY THE DIRECTOR OR THE SECRETARY. PARENT’S MAY ADDRESS ANY PAYMENT ISSUES SPEEDILY, FIRST WITH THE DIRECTOR, AND SECONDLY WITH THE SECRETARY, BUT ALL THEY CAN DO IS FORWARD YOUR REQUESTS TO THE COMMITTEE AS ALL FINAL ARRANGEMENTS, CONCERNING PAYMENTS, CAN ONLY BE APPROVED BY THE COMMITTEE.

 

PAYMENT POLICIES

Tuition payments can be placed in the box near the sign-in/out book. However, the child’s first and last name must be on the check as the memo or the payment may not be processed on time (due to having to look up the missing information) and a late fee may be added. Cash payments are not to be placed in the box for any reason – all cash payments must be directly handed to an employee of the Center and you must be given a receipt. No employee can accept cash without writing a receipt; therefore, there will be no disputes over lost receipts for cash payment as we will have our copy.

**WE RESERVE THE RIGHT TO TURN YOUR ACCOUNT OVER TO THE MAGISTRATE COURT FOR PROSECUTION IF NECESSARY** PLEASE, DO NOT LET YOUR ACCOUNT REACH THIS STATUS!

REMINDER:  Accounts not paid by Friday are considered delinquent.  Children whose accounts are delinquent CANNOT be left at the Center until satisfactory arrangements for payment is made. PLEASE, DO NOT PLACE US IN THE POSITION OF HAVING TO TURN YOUR CHILD AWAY.

 

The responsible party for paying the child care tuition will be the parent or guardian that has signed the child up for child care on the enrollment application.  If someone else is to pay the tuition it will be your responsibility to get the tuition, not the Centers. 

 

IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO KNOW THE STATUS OF YOUR ACCOUNT, AND TO INSURE IT IS KEPT CURRENT TO AVOID THE LATE FEES.  A complete statement of your account may be received at any time by request – ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS ASK FOR IT and it will be ready for you to pick up by the end of the day.

We certainly understand that at times in a person’s life circumstances come along that prevent one policy or another from being followed 100% of the time. In the event, that such a circumstance happens in your life that will impact your child’s schedule or ability to pay; all we ask is that you come to us and make arrangements. And certainly, in the case of an emergency we will work with you in any way that is reasonable.

DROP NOTICES: MUST BE GIVEN TO THE DIRECTOR WHEN WITHDRAWING CHILDREN FROM THE SCHOOL AT LEAST TWO WEEKS IN ADVANCE.  CHARGES TO YOUR ACCOUNT WILL CONTINUE WEEKLY UNLESS NOTICE IS GIVEN. 

 

REMEMBER, THERE ARE NO REFUNDS! ALL FEES PAID AHEAD ARE FORFEITED, EVEN IF YOUR CHILD DROPS.

**IF YOU LEAVE THE CENTER OWING A BALANCE AT THE END OF THE YEAR, YOU WILL NOT RECEIVE A STATEMENT FOR YOUR INCOME TAX PURPOSES UNTIL YOUR ACCOUNT HAS BEEN PAID IN FULL.**

EXCEPTIONS TO THESE POLICIES

 

Since the Learning Center Committee approves these policies, the Director and/or the Secretary do not have the authority to make any exceptions.  Please do not ask or pressure them to make exceptions in your case – they simply cannot do so without placing their own employment in jeopardy.

 

OTHER NEEDED INFORMATION

WE ARE REQUIRED BY LAW TO REPORT ABUSE and/or SUSPECTED ABUSE

The State of Georgia requires that all members of the Child Care Institution be on lookout for, and report to the State, any and all cases of abuse to a child.  Mt. Zion Learning Center will report to the State any suspected cases of child abuse and/or neglect.

PARENT TEACHER FELLOWSHIP

 

We encourage parents to become a part of the (Parent Teacher Fellowship) PTF.  This association works with the administration on fund-raisers and other worthy projects that will benefit the school.

FINAL WORDS.....

Concerning the stray animals (especially the dogs) that are a repeated problem; they are not ours and we are not responsible for any incidents/accidents/bites involving them. We have diligently contacted officials about this issue with no solution. Therefore, we ask that as the parent, whenever you feel it is a problem to get involved and contact your county commissioners. We greatly appreciate your help and understanding in this matter.

REMEMBER:

1.    Class begins at 8:00 a.m. Teachers need to have students in their seats by 7:55 a.m. ready to learn.

2.    Mt. Zion Learning Center admits all children without regard to race, color, nationality or religious background.

3.    Do not bring any food or drinks from home, unless your child is in the nursery and cannot eat table food or he/she requires a special diet due to health reasons (gluten free, diabetes, etc).

4.    Medications are to be left at the front desk – stored in the medicine cabinet with the proper paper work completed. Then, inform your child’s teacher and/or the director about the medicine needed, not the secretary – she does not dispense medications.

5.    Do not allow your child to bring any toys, gum, candy, electronics, money, or books from home.

6.    Parent/teacher conferences are to be scheduled in advance. Teachers cannot stop what they are doing to have a meeting. If you have a situation that needs to be addressed immediately, please see the director.

7.    Vacation time requested requires a completed form for your child with the exact dates of the absence. And, remember, this week is not a free tuition week. It is to be paid as part of your tuition plan and late fees will apply if it is not paid as scheduled with your child not being allowed to return until payment is made.

Any concerns, questions, or comments can be placed in the Center’s Suggestion Box or directly addressed to the following committee members: Eddie Clements (Chairman) 140 Comer Yawn Rd, Hazlehurst, Ga  31539 912-375-7670; Glynn Rentz at 210 Holt Rentz Rd, Hazlehurst, Ga  912-367-0904;
Pam Hutchison at 94 Dr. Turfler Road, Hazlehurst, Ga  31539 912-375-3715; Glenda Morris at 21 Ralph Wommack Rd, Hazlehurst, Ga  31539 912-375-2137, and/or Kevin Waters at 709 Old Graham Rd, Hazlehurst, Ga  31539  912-375-2664.



Lo, children are an heritage of the LORD: and the fruit of the womb is his reward.

Psalm 127:3

Remember, we are diligently striving for MZLC to be a place of excellence in education, exciting for students, parents, and staff, along with being a place of safety. We are a business and our business is caring for and nurturing your child. Unfortunately, there is a financial side to every business. It is not our goal to place finances and rules above the training for your child, but we have to have finances in order to be able to do our job.

Thank you so much for entrusting the lives of those who are so dear to your heart to us on a daily basis. We look forward to watching your children meet milestone after milestone in their lives and will celebrate each one with you.

Have a blessed year! – MZLC

 

 

 

ATTENTION PARENTS:

 

Please read the handbook carefully; then complete and sign this form, and return it to the Learning Center. Your signature indicates that you agree with each and every rule and explanation in this handbook. This form will become part of your child’s permanent file.

Parent’s Name(s): ____________________________

Child’s Name:       ____________________________

                            

Address:  ____________________________________

               ____________________________________

Home Phone: ________________________________

Cell Phone: __________________________________

Work Phone: ________________________________

Email: ______________________________________

** I have read the parent policy handbook and I agree to abide by the rules set forth within (all circumstances permitting). I accept this policy and these rules as written and will uphold them to the best of my ability. I will also inform any person(s) designated to drop off and/or sign out my child of these rules. If for some unforeseen reason there needs to be an exception made, I will do my best to inform the center’s director and/or staff ahead of time to make prior arrangements.**

Printed Name: _________________________              Printed Name: _________________________

  Signature:  ____________________________            Signature:  ____________________________

   Date:   ________________________________           Date:   ________________________________