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PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN

QUICK START GUIDE 2020-2021

(COVID Edition)

This handbook is a supplement to the CHA Parent-Student Handbook

Revision Date: 8/5/2020

Joan Okamoto, Principal

Kathy Severson, Director of Early Education

Forms can be found on CHA Central: christianheritage.org/chacentral

Veracross Parent Portal: https://portals.veracross.com/cha

315 WAUKEGAN RD, NORTHFIELD, IL 60093

PHONE (847) 446-5252 | FAX (847) 446-5267

CHRISTIANHERITAGE.ORG

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FIRST WEEK

PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN MODIFIED SCHEDULES

PREK M-F PREK MWF PREK TTH Kindergarten

Thursday Aug. 13

PK-K Virtual Parent Preview (via Zoom)

7-7:30 PM General NEED TO KNOW info session 7:30-8:30 Classroom Breakout Sessions

Monday Aug. 17

Classroom visits for NEW students

Classroom visits

for NEW students

Classroom visits for NEW students

Tuesday Aug. 18

Classroom visits for NEW students

Classroom visits for NEW students

½ class comes from 8:30-10:00 AM

½ class comes from 10:15-11:45 AM

(teacher will call with time)

Wednesday Aug. 19

½ class comes from 8:45-10:00 AM

½ class comes from 10:15-11:30 AM

(teacher will call with time)

½ class comes from 8:45-10:00 AM

½ class comes from 10:15-11:30 AM

(teacher will call with time)

HALF DAY

8:30-11:40 AM

Thursday Aug. 20

HALF DAY 8:30-11:30 AM

½ class comes from 8:45-10:00 AM

½ class comes from 10:15-11:30 AM

(teacher will call with time)

Regular Schedule

Friday Aug. 21

Regular schedule begins

HALF DAY 8:30-11:30 AM

Regular Schedule

August 24 Regular Schedule for all classes

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PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN

2020-2021 CALENDARS This PK-K overview calendar of events is subject to change. These dates and more can also be found on your Veracross Parent Portal Calendar (My Calendar). Please read your weekly Classroom Newsletter and the continuously updated “CHA Central” webpage (christianheritage.org/chacentral) to stay abreast of school happenings.

PRESCHOOL KINDERGARTEN

Thurs, Aug 13 PARENTS ONLY, Parent Classroom Preview Night PARENTS ONLY, Parent Classroom Preview Night

Mon, Aug 17 New Student Hello visits New student Hello Visits

Tues, Aug 18 New Student Hello visits See modified schedule

Wed, Aug 19 See modified schedule Half day

Thurs, Aug 20 See modified schedule Regular Schedule

Fri, Aug 21 See modified schedule Regular Schedule

Mon, Sept 7 NO SCHOOL- Labor Day NO SCHOOL- Labor Day

Thurs-Fri, Sept 10 & 11 Picture Days Picture Days

Sat, Sept 19 All-school prayer walk 9-11 AM (outdoors) All-school prayer walks 9-11 AM (outdoors)

Week of Sept 19-25 Week of Prayer Week of Prayer

Mon- Fri, Sept 28-Oct 3 Spirit Week Spirit Week

Mon, Oct 12 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day

Tues, Oct 13 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Inservice NO SCHOOL – Faculty Inservice

Wed, Oct 21 Picture retakes Picture retakes

Nov, 18 & 19 Hearing and Vision Screening Hearing and Vision Screening

Thurs, Nov 5 NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, Noon-8:00 PM

NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, Noon-8:00 PM

Fri, Nov 6 NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, 7:45 AM-3:45 PM

NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, 7:45 AM-3:45 PM

Wed-Fri, Nov 25-27 NO SCHOOL – Thanksgiving Break NO SCHOOL – Thanksgiving Break

Fri, Dec 19 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day

Mon-Fri, Dec 21-Jan1 NO SCHOOL – Christmas Break NO SCHOOL – Christmas Break

Mon, Jan 4 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day

Tues, Jan 5 School resumes School resumes

Mon, Jan 18 NO SCHOOL – Martin Luther King Jr. Day NO SCHOOL – Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Mon, Feb 15 NO SCHOOL – Presidents’ Day NO SCHOOL –Presidents’ Day

Tues, Feb 16 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Inservice NO SCHOOL – Faculty Inservice

Fri, Feb 26 Winter Concert PreK-Grade 2, 6:00-7:00 PM Mark your calendars - your child will sing on stage!

Winter Concert PreK-Grade 2, 6:00-7:00 PM Mark your calendars - your child will sing on stage!

Fri, Mar 5 NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day NO SCHOOL – Faculty Grading Day

Thurs, Mar 18 NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, 12:00-8:00 PM

NO SCHOOL Parent Teacher Conferences by appointment, 12:00-8:00 PM

Fri, Mar 19 NO SCHOOL Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences by appointment, 7:45 AM-3:30 PM

NO SCHOOL Spring Parent-Teacher Conferences by appointment, 7:45 AM-3:30 PM

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Mon-Fri, Mar 22-26 NO SCHOOL – Spring Break NO SCHOOL – Spring Break

Mon, March 29 School resume School resumes Fri, Apr 2 NO SCHOOL – Good Friday NO SCHOOL – Good Friday Mon, Apr. 5 NO SCHOOL – Easter Monday NO SCHOOL –Easter Monday Thurs, May 27 LAST DAY OF SCHOOL LAST DAY OF SCHOOL - HALF DAY

Mon, May 31 Office Closed – Memorial Day Office Closed – Memorial Day

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CHRISTIAN HERITAGE ACADEMY

EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM

Table of Contents PHILOSOPHY ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 6 I CAN SEPARATE ............................................................................................................................................................................... 6 ADJUSTING TO SCHOOL (for children AND parents!) ....................................................................................................................... 6 WHAT TO EXPECT ............................................................................................................................................................................. 7 PLANNING FOR IN-PERSON CLASSES................................................................................................................................................ 7 WHAT ARE WE DOING TO KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE? ........................................................................................................................ 8 ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL ............................................................................................................................................................... 11 DROP-OFF/PICK-UP CARPOOL LINES .............................................................................................................................................. 12 EARLY EDUCATION EXTENDED CARE PROGRAM............................................................................................................................ 12 BIRTHDAYS ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 13 COMMUNICATION ......................................................................................................................................................................... 13 CLOTHING (Dress for Mess) ........................................................................................................................................................... 14 DISCIPLINE ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 14 ABSENCE & ILLNESS ........................................................................................................................................................................ 15 HEALTHY SNACKS ........................................................................................................................................................................... 16 ITEMS FROM HOME ....................................................................................................................................................................... 16 LOST & FOUND ............................................................................................................................................................................... 16 LUNCH (full day students) .............................................................................................................................................................. 16 NAPPING ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 17 CHA CENTRAL ................................................................................................................................................................................. 17 PARENT PARTICIPATION AND SPECIAL DAYS ................................................................................................................................. 17 PHOTO/VIDEO CONSENT................................................................................................................................................................ 17 SCHOOL CALENDAR ........................................................................................................................................................................ 18 SCHOOL SUPPLIES .......................................................................................................................................................................... 18 VERACROSS PARENT PORTAL ......................................................................................................................................................... 18

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EARLY EDUCATION PROGRAM Welcome to the 2020-2021 school year! It is our joy to partner with you in the especially important early years of your child’s growth and development. PHILOSOPHY Spiritual development and Christian character formation are the first priorities in the CHA Early Education program. Understanding that young children are individuals, each with their own unique development, the Early Education program is explicitly designed to prepare children for elementary school in a way that will strengthen learning dispositions (creativity, curiosity, persistence, responsibility and self- esteem) and executive functioning (self-control, planning, goal-setting, problem-solving and cognitive reasoning) based on the knowledge of being “created in God’s image.” Research indicates that students entering elementary school with strong learning dispositions and executive functioning have greater long-term academic and social success. Our Early Education classrooms provide a developmentally appropriate, nurturing environment in which the child takes important steps from the home to school. This is accomplished by a variety of indoor and outdoor play experiences, large and small group learning activities, and science, music, and art exploration. In each classroom, children can express their creativity, interact positively with their peers, solve problems, explore, and experiment in a positive, affirming atmosphere. Our faculty members have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, are trained educators, and have experience in the classroom. I CAN SEPARATE Each child develops at his or her own pace. Some children separate very easily. Others find it a little difficult at first and may cling or cry. Both situations are normal. You may feel a little anxious or sad yourself. That is normal too! The teachers are aware of and understand your concerns and your child’s feelings. We will work together with you to help your child transition. Read tips for separating with your child here. As you look forward to the beginning of the school year, talk positively about starting school. Speak with confidence that your child will enjoy the experience. Do not share concerns or anxiety that you may be experiencing. Stay upbeat! Many children will be happy to separate at the carpool line. If your child is struggling, you and the teacher can discuss the best strategy to support your child. ADJUSTING TO SCHOOL (for children AND parents!) The first few weeks (or even months) of school will be very tiring for your preschooler or kindergartener. Make sure to establish a consistent bedtime hour and routine to ensure that your child gets plenty of rest. Meltdowns at pick up time are a common occurrence as students have “held it together” all day then fall apart upon seeing a parent or caregiver (read more here). It is helpful to give lots and love, cuddles, and down time before asking your child lots of questions

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about the day. For children who have a hard time remembering what they did during the day, ask specific questions like, “Did you play in the block area today?” or “Did you play with Joey on the playground?” rather than, “Who did you play with?” or “What did you do today?” Please be sure to read your class newsletter, sent weekly, for information about what happened in class and upcoming events. Please model good habits for your child by dropping off and picking up on time. Students entering the classroom late impact the classroom routine, other students, and the teacher. While Preschool tardies are tracked for record-keeping purposes, consequences for excessive tardies begin in Kindergarten. If extenuating circumstances are causing you to arrive late, please let your teacher know. WHAT TO EXPECT It may seem that the classroom academic content begins slower than you expected. Establishing classroom procedures, strong self-discipline habits, and a culture of learning is our primary importance during the first quarter of each year. While our preschool and kindergartners do not have formal homework assignments, you will want to establish home routines of reading each day and playing games, puzzles, or doing activities that practice and reinforce concepts learned at school. As the year progresses (especially in Kindergarten) you will find that academic content is introduced at a faster pace. By the end of the year you will be amazed at the dramatic growth (socially, spiritually, and academically) you are likely to notice. PLANNING FOR IN-PERSON CLASSES Going back to school this fall will require schools and families to work together even more than before. CHA is making changes to our policies and operations so that we can provide excellent instruction and healthy social interactions as well as continue to provide extended care and other extracurricular activities while limiting the transmission of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Read HERE for the latest on transmission risk. Teachers and staff will teach and encourage preventive behaviors at school. Likewise, it will be important for families to emphasize and model healthy behaviors at home and to talk to your children about what to expect this school year. The CDC (Center for Disease Control) has created a checklist to help with back to school planning for the school year 2020-2021.

★ Check in with your child each morning for signs of illness. If your child has a temperature of 100.4 degrees or higher, they will not be allowed in school.

★ Make sure your child does not have a sore throat or other signs of illness, like a cough, diarrhea, severe headache, vomiting, or body aches.

★ If your child has had close contact with a COVID-19 case, they should not go to school. Follow guidance on what to do when someone has known exposure.

★ Be familiar with local COVID-19 testing sites in the event you or your child develops symptoms. These may include sites with free testing available.

★ Make sure your child is up-to-date with all recommended vaccines.

★ Review and practice proper hand washing techniques at home, especially before and after eating, sneezing, coughing, and adjusting a face cover. Make hand washing fun and explain to your child why it’s important.

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★ Reinforce the concept of physical distancing with your child.

★ Label your child’s cloth face coverings clearly in a permanent marker so that they are not confused with those of other children.

★ Develop daily routines before and after school—for example, things to pack for school in the morning (like hand sanitizer and an additional [back up] cloth face covering) and things to do when you return home (like washing hands immediately and washing worn cloth face coverings).

★ Make sure your information is current at school, including emergency contacts and individuals authorized to pick up your child(ren) from school.

WHAT ARE WE DOING TO KEEP YOUR CHILD SAFE?

General Daily Procedures In addition to encouraging staff to take everyday preventive actions to prevent the spread of respiratory illness, we will:

➢ PK and K will use the largest rooms with a dedicated bathroom and sinks.

➢ Keep students in “cohorts.” Cohorts are groups of students that do not mix with other cohorts/groups of students throughout the school day.

➢ Conduct activities in an area with greater ventilation or air exchange (e.g., outdoors).

➢ Create play zones so students will play with the same 3-5 classmates only per day. Groupings and zones will be adjusted each day so that students play with all offerings and all classmates each week in a controlled way.

➢ Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

➢ Intensify cleaning and disinfecting efforts.

➢ Implement social distancing strategies such as playing in zones/centers with a small group of friends.

➢ Modify drop-off and pick-up procedures.

➢ Implement screening procedures upon arrival.

➢ When feasible, staff members, and children will wear face coverings within the facility.

➢ Cancel or postpone special events such as holiday events, field trips, and special activities.

➢ Alter or halt daily group activities that may promote transmission.

➢ Limit the mixing of children, such as staggering playground times and keeping groups separate for special activities such as art, music, and exercising.

➢ Ensure that children’s naptime mats are spaced out as much as possible, at least 6 feet apart and placing children head to toe in order to further reduce the potential for viral spread.

➢ Toys that cannot be cleaned and sanitized will not be used. Machine washable cloth toys will not be used at all.

➢ Prepare groups of toy bins so that the toys can be rotated through cleanings.

➢ Place posters describing hand washing steps near sinks.

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In addition: ★ Students will bring a labelled water bottle to drink from instead of drinking from water

fountains.

★ Students will bring their own healthy snacks rather than sharing staff-prepared snacks.

★ Students will bring a container (e.g., labeled re-sealable bag) to store their cloth face coverings when not wearing it (e.g., when eating, napping, outside).

★ Students will have dedicated art supplies for personal use instead of class sharing.

Face Coverings CHA Preschool and Kindergarten classes will use face coverings, keeping the following caveats in mind:

Cloth face coverings are meant to protect other people in case the wearer is unknowingly infected.

Cloth face coverings are not personal protective equipment (such as surgical masks or respirators).

The use of cloth face coverings in educational settings may present challenges, particularly for younger students and students with special healthcare or educational needs.

While cloth face coverings are necessary to reduce the spread of COVID-19, the CDC recognizes there are specific instances when wearing a cloth face covering may not be feasible. In these instances adaptations and alternatives may be considered whenever possible.

Use of clear face coverings that cover the nose and wrap securely around the face by will be used by teachers and staff:

➔ During daily story time while teacher reads a book to the class

➔ During the teaching of phonemic awareness and phonics lessons and activities

➔ During the teaching of math lessons and activities

➔ During the teaching of writing lessons and activities

➔ During the teaching of any other subjects or activities in which seeing the teacher’s lips and facial expressions will enhance the learning for students

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Healthy Hand Hygiene Behavior

Students and staff will wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. As much as possible, soap and water will be used rather than hand sanitizer. If hands are not visibly dirty, alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol may be used if soap and water are not readily available. We will supervise children when they use hand sanitizer to prevent ingestion.

All children and staff will engage in hand hygiene at the following times:

➢ Arrival to the facility and after breaks

➢ Before and after eating or handling food

➢ After using the toilet

➢ After coming in contact with bodily fluid

➢ After playing outdoors

➢ After handling garbage

Try these strategies to help build your child’s comfort wearing a cloth face covering and become comfortable seeing others in face covers:

★ Praise your child for wearing a cloth face covering correctly.

★ Put a cloth face covering on stuffed animals.

★ Draw a cloth face covering on a favorite book character.

★ Show images of other children wearing cloth face coverings.

★ Allow your child to choose their cloth face covering.

★ Practice with your child putting on and taking off cloth face coverings without touching the cloth.

★ Explain the importance of wearing a cloth face covering and how it protects other people from getting sick.

As a family, model wearing cloth face coverings, especially when you are in situations where physical distancing is difficult to maintain or impossible.

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ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL Please take a few minutes to read the Arrival & Dismissal Procedures and review the Traffic Flow map in the Parent-Student Handbook found on CHA Central on our school website. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call the CHA Office at 847-446-5252.

Arrival Procedures NOTE: Adults will not be permitted to enter the building with their children

Preschool* • Preschool families will use the N-3 door on the northeast side of

the building for arrivals.

• Drop-off is between 8:20-8:30 AM. Preschool officially begins at 8:30 AM.

• Park in the northeast lot and bring your child to the N-3 door where a staff member will scan him or her for a temperature reading.

• Once the health check is completed a preschool staff member will escort your child safely to the morning destination (classroom or playground).

• Preschoolers arriving after 8:35 AM must enter through the main office and wait for a staff member to escort the student to his class.

Kindergarten* • All kindergartners will be using the N-3 door on the northeast

side of the building for morning arrival.

• Drop-off is between 7:50-8:20 AM. Kindergarten officially begins at 8:30 AM.

• Students should remain in the car until a CHA staff member performs a quick temperature check.

• Once approved, students can exit the car, enter the building, and go directly to the Kindergarten classrooms.

• Make sure your child can exit the car through the right side of your vehicle.

• Kindergartners arriving after 8:25 will be given a tardy slip (see tardy policies).

Dismissal Procedures Parents: You may not get out of your car or leave your car unattended in the carpool lane any time.

Never take your child unless a staff member releases them.

Preschool and Kindergarten AM • Dismissal location: N-3 Door

• Preschool dismissal time: 11:30-11:40 AM

• Kindergarten dismissal time: 11:40-11:50 AM

• Use the carpool lane; a staff member will safely bring your child to the car. If your child is not able to buckle up independently, please pull forward or park to buckle your child, or park in the lot and walk up to get your child.

• Students not picked up by 11:50 AM will be allowed two late “graces.” After that regular after care charges will be applied.

Preschool Full Day** • Dismissal is at 3:10 PM from the carpool lane in the front circle

drive, near the preschool playground.

• A staff member will safely bring your child to the car. If your child is not able to buckle up independently, please pull forward or park to buckle your child or park in the lot and walk up to get your child.

Kindergarten** • Dismissal is at 3:15 PM from either the N-3 or S-3 Door.

• A staff member will bring your child safely to your car.

If a student is registered for after care, a staff member will deliver them safely to the after care room after school.

*If you have an older student in your carpool, please drop off older students at the S-3 (south) door first and then come around to the N-3 door last. We cannot accommodate requests for preschool or kindergarten students to be dropped off with siblings or carpools at any doors other than as designated above.

**If you have both a Preschool and a Kindergarten or other age student in your carpool, please pick up your preschooler at the circle drive first, and then proceed to the N-3 or S-3 door to pick up the rest of your carpool. We cannot accommodate requests for preschoolers to be picked up with siblings or carpools at any doors other than as designated above. Likewise, we cannot accommodate request to have older siblings or carpool members picked up with the preschoolers at the circle drive. With written permission from a parent, a student age 12 or older may pick up a preschool student and walk them to a different pick up point (parent’s classroom, N-3, or S-3 door.)

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DROP-OFF/PICK-UP CARPOOL LINES

CHA’s campus parking lots and driving lanes are a School Zone where the following safe driving standards apply at all times. Campus Speed Limit is 10 miles per hour. State Law bans the use of cell phones in school zones. In compliance with State law, DO NOT use cell phones while driving. If you must use your cell phone, please park your car in a parking space first.

Please become familiar with these important safety procedures:

1. Obey CHA Faculty & Staff on duty.

2. Respect the safety lane in the Drop-off/Pick-up lane (designated by a solid yellow line and orange cones on both the north and south carpool lines). Cars in the line should remain outside the solid yellow line when picking up children.

3. Cars must be put in park while waiting in the carpool lines.

4. Cars must not be left unattended in the carpool line. If you need to exit your vehicle, please park in a parking space and turn off your ignition.

5. Students are to be ready to exit their vehicle upon arrival to allow carpool lines may move safely and quickly.

6. Students may only exit/enter on the passenger side of a vehicle in the carpool line. They may never enter/exit on the driver’s side of a vehicle at any time while in the carpool line!

7. Crosswalks MUST be used when crossing lanes of traffic. Children and parents may walk across the carpool line ONLY at a designated crosswalk under the supervision of a staff person on duty! Parents, please help your children learn to always obey this important safety procedure.

8. Students and parents are not allowed to access trunks or hatchbacks in the carpool line. If you need to access rear storage of your vehicle, the vehicle must be properly parked in a parking space.

9. Do not drive your car unless car doors are closed (especially minivans with sliding doors).

10. During pick-up time, cars must display the yellow CHA Vehicle Name Sign on the passenger-side visor, with last name(s) of the family(ies) they are picking up, printed in black marker. This should be used every day, all year long. Signs will be distributed in the carpool lines during the first week of school. Extras are in the CHA Office.

IMPORTANT NOTE TO ALL PARENTS: Please add adults to your authorized pick up list in Veracross. If you arrange for someone to pick up your child who has not been previously authorized by you to do so, PLEASE send a written note pinned to the outside of your child’s bag! This is important for the safety of the children. We will only release your child to someone authorized by you.

EARLY EDUCATION EXTENDED CARE PROGRAM Preschoolers and Kindergartners enrolled at CHA may use the Extended Care Program (available options include before and after school care). Outdoor play, story time, table games, block play, and sensory and art exploration will be available, led by a nurturing adult. Preschool and kindergartners will be in room 115, separate from the LS, MS and US students.

Before Care is available from 7:00-8:20 AM.

After-School care is available from 3:10-5:45 PM.

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Drop-off and pick-up is at the N-1 Door.

Please see specific registration and fee information for extended care on CHA Central.

BIRTHDAYS Birthdays are special and celebrated at school. On birthdays or half-birthdays, children may bring a special show and tell and a favorite game or activity to teach the class. Please do not allow your child to bring toy weapons, TV-inspired toys, or very fragile or irreplaceable items. PLEASE DO NOT send prizes, favors, hats, treats, or juice boxes of any kind. During the day, each birthday child will be especially acknowledged; but a calm, simple routine will be maintained. At times, parents honor their child’s birthday with a gift of a book to the CHA Library. These are permanently labeled with your child’s name and year given. (See School Library for more details.) Student birthday parties outside of school are not encouraged or discouraged. However, recognizing that children’s feelings are easily hurt, we strongly encourage the following:

• If you are going to have a birthday party for your child and plan to include classmates from school, please include ALL the child’s classmates (boys for boys and girls for girls is acceptable) on your invitation list. Please be kind and use wisdom. If you cannot have an all-class (or all-girl or all-boy) party, do not invite the majority and exclude a few. Use these events as teaching times. It is important that students are guided by parents in the appropriate respect for one another. Teach your child etiquette and discretion regarding discussions at school, before or after the event, which may cause hurt feelings.

• Teachers will not distribute invitations for you via school student mailboxes. Please send invitations to private birthday parties, thank you notes, etc. through the U.S. Mail or email.

COMMUNICATION Preschool and Kindergarten teachers will provide a fall and spring progress report and parent-teacher conference to discuss your child’s school adjustment and goals. Additional conferences will be available as the teacher or parent requests. The Early Education teachers will regularly send calendars and classroom updates by email to keep you informed of class activities. Parents will also have access to a secure digital portfolio showing how their child is progressing socially and academically.

We cherish adult-to-adult communication on behalf of our children. If you have any information that might affect your child such as a parent traveling, a death in the family (including pets), or a change in routine, please let us know so we can be sensitive to your child’s needs. A note safety-pinned to the outside of your child’s tote bag (preschool) or backpack (kindergarten) is the best way for teaching staff to receive your letters. In general, we do not look inside the child’s tote bag or backpack. If you want to be SURE we receive any valuable information, emailing the teacher is always best.

While school is in session, our Early Education teachers are devoting their attention to the children. Please do not engage them in lengthy conversations during drop-off or pick-up time, or in the classroom. Please encourage your child to share his or her day with you on the drive home. If parents have any questions or concerns, teachers are happy to return phone calls after school or set aside time for parent-teacher conversations when school is not in session. As an Early Education family, you are welcome at all CHA events. We understand that with small children, your family may not be able to participate in everything. However, you are valued as a CHA family member and, as time and energy allow, we encourage your participation in CHA Association meetings, fundraisers, plays, coffees, and all-school events.

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CLOTHING (DRESS FOR MESS)

The Early Education classroom is the perfect place for children to grow in concentration and self-control, and to enjoy markers, glue, painting, water/sensory play, cooking, and other messy projects. Comfortable, durable, washable play clothes give your child the most freedom to enjoy these activities. Although we do provide smocks and remind children to push up their sleeves, please expect to see normal wear and tear on their clothing as well as occasional paint and various stains. Jewelry, watches, headwear (bows and simple headbands are ok; crowns, tiaras, and hats are not OK) and other “dress up” shoes and

clothes (including those with attached capes) can be a distraction or hazard for a child while in class and are NOT to be worn. Please keep an extra set of clothes, with several changes of undies and socks, in your child’s locker. We encourage each child to become as independent and self-sufficient as possible. Children appreciate clothing with simple fastenings, elasticized waistbands, very simple belt buckles, large jacket zippers, and large, roomy boots. PLEASE USE VELCRO OR SLIP-ON SHOES (unless your child can tie shoes independently.) Clothing should allow children to manage in the bathroom independently and move easily for outdoor play. Please mark all clothing for easy identification--Put the child’s name on jackets, raincoats, snow pants, hats, mittens, scarves, sweaters, boots, and shoes.

Our program provides for an outdoor play period every day, weather permitting. We will usually play outside if the wind chill factor is not lower than 10 degrees for preschool and 0 degrees for Kindergarten, or if it is not raining. The teachers use www.weather.com (zip code 60093) to assess whether or not we will have outdoor play. Please check that site prior to driving to school in the morning if you think the weather might not permit outdoor play. Dress your child appropriately for the weather. Waterproof mittens/gloves and boots are important for cold and snowy weather or mud on the playground, and protecting the

classroom carpet as well as the children’s shoes! A snowsuit on a cold day makes the difference for a child’s enjoyment outside. A pair of slip-on shoes to change into should be left at school in your child’s locker. Please Note - If a child is too sick to participate in outdoor play, then he or she is too sick to attend school. If the class is playing outside, a parent may not request that a child stay in during recess unless the parent or caregiver stays inside with the child.

DISCIPLINE With an understanding of child development, CHA’s program is structured for success. Ample materials and a variety of creative activities are provided for the children who are asked to do appropriate tasks for appropriate lengths of time in fun and active ways. We believe that children learn best through participation. Since many early childhood issues stem from emerging language skills and limited social experience, the teacher’s role is to exemplify Christian character through modeling and serving as a language advocate in peacemaking and problem solving. With a focus on the development of language skills and

fostering independence, children learn how they can solve many problems on their own. Strategies used include clearly defined teacher expectations, redirection, removing a child

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from a situation, one-on-one time with a teacher talking through actions and consequences, and giving those natural and logical consequences. Prayer for or with the child will always be a part of our discipline procedures. Kindergarten and older preschool students often “test the limits” and may meet with Mrs. Severson, Director of Early Education, or CHA’s social worker for additional consequences and/or coaching on appropriate behavior. Both Mrs. Severson and the social worker are available to parents as resources regarding many early childhood topics and challenges. Please let us know if we can help! If these strategies are not helping the child to progress, a goal setting conference will be requested with the parents. We value ideas you have for us regarding strategies that work at home. Being “on the same page” is important for students, who often rise to the expectations when they understand that they are accountable to parents and teachers for their choices. ABSENCE & ILLNESS Please use caution and discretion in sending a child to school when illness is suspected. We ask parents to report all absences to the receptionist, Diane Town, (847-446-5252) as soon as it is clear that the child will not be attending school. If a child is too sick to go out to recess, he or she is too sick to come to school. Any child or staff member suspected of having COVID-19 or diagnosed with COVID-19 shall be excluded from the facility pursuant to existing licensing standards regarding communicable disease.

Symptoms of COVID-19 may be: fever (temperature greater than 100.4F/37C) chills sore throat runny nose cough shortness of breath muscle aches headache vomiting diarrhea

If the child or staff member is diagnosed with COVID-19, he or she is not to return to school until ALL three of the following are met:

1. Individual is free from fever without the use of fever-reducing medications for at least 24 hours.

2. Individual’s symptoms, including cough, have improved.

3. It has been at least 10 days since the onset of the individual’s illness.

If a child or staff member has symptoms of COVID-19 and it is subsequently determined by a medical provider that the individual likely does not have a COVID-19 infection, the child or staff member can return to school if the following conditions are met: o No fever for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications (fever is temperature greater than 100.4F / 37C) o Negative test for COVID-19 or; o A note from a medical provider documenting no clinical suspicion of COVID-19 infection

The CDC recommends that any child or staff with close contact (within 6 feet for greater than 15 minutes) to a person suspected or diagnosed with COVID-19 be excluded from school for 14 days and monitored for symptoms. If symptoms develop, they are encouraged to be evaluated and tested for COVID-19.

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IMPORTANT TO NOTE:

1. Illinois State Law requires that a physical examination form must be completed by your child’s physician and be on file in the school office prior to attending school. This includes all kindergartners and new preschool students to CHA. Physical exams must be dated within one year of starting school. Students with a religious exemption to one or more immunizations must also complete a form provided by the State of Illinois. Health forms are on the Health Services Page. Completed forms should be returned to the CHA Office no later than Sept. 15.

2. If your child has a severe allergy or medical concern, you must contact the school nurse so that teachers can be informed before school begins. Some forms require a physician’s signature. All forms are located on the Health Services page on our website.

3. If your student has an Emergency Action Plan on file with Health Services due to severe allergies or medical conditions, please communicate any changes or updates as they occur. Severe allergy forms must be updated every year and require a physician’s signature. For more specifics, review the Severe Allergy/Medical Concern Resource Guide (including form).

HEALTHY SNACKS Preschool and Kindergarten students will bring their own snack from home each day. For the safety of all children, we attempt to have all Early Education classrooms as nut-safe environments. Please only send a snack for your child from the Food List for a Nut-Safe Environment on the on the Quick Links page via CHA Central.

ITEMS FROM HOME Please DO NOT let your child bring toys from home. We have carefully selected the toys and learning equipment provided at school; these materials encourage investigation, cooperation, and creativity. They have been chosen for your child’s developmental appropriateness. Jewelry, watches, headwear, and other “dress up” clothes and shoes will be considered toys and are

not to be worn at school. Please understand if we ask your child to remove or not to wear items, even if it is the current popular clothing and accessory style (i.e. shirts with capes attached, headbands that are princess crowns, skirts that are tutus, etc.). We do so to maintain a peaceful, safe, and educational environment. LOST & FOUND If any items are found throughout the building—clothing articles, books, school supplies, lunch gear, and so forth—they will be brought to the Lost and Found. PK-K parents should check the Lost & Found for the items. CHA asks that student belongings are all labeled early in the year so that items can be returned to the rightful owner in a prompt manner. Lost and Found will be cleaned monthly on the last Friday or day of attendance. Unclaimed items will be donated to charity.

LUNCH (FULL DAY STUDENTS) When packing your child’s lunch, please use thermal containers to keep the food hot or cold because there is no refrigerator or microwave available for student use. Please send healthy foods that your child enjoys and can eat independently.

Full day Preschoolers and Kindergartners will eat lunch in their classroom. Please make sure you check labels on granola

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bars and other snack items to ensure there are no nuts of any kind. If a nut-containing item accidentally makes it to school, we will send it home at the end of the day with a reminder note. Please note that many Lunchables contain candy with nuts. Please check and remove the nut-containing item before packing to send to school. All Early Education students may order and pay for hot lunch through the KIDDOS website. Full day Early Education students may order milk (white or chocolate) for the year. For ordering information, please look for information on CHA Central.

NAPPING All full day students who begin the school year as three-year-olds are required to have the

opportunity to nap in the afternoon for the entire year.

If a child no longer naps, he or she will have a rest time with other nappers, followed by quiet table activities in the napping room.

Face masks will not be worn while napping.

Parents should provide a pillow, blanket, or sleeping bag and a special “cuddle item” (stuffed animal, blankie, etc.) if desired.

Each student’s items will be stored in a plastic bag, separated from others.

Pacifiers are not allowed.

Students will be provided with their own sleeping mat, which will be disinfected daily.

Mats will be positioned 6 ft. apart with students facing head to toe to mitigate spreading of germs.

All napping items will be sent home each Friday for laundering.

Also, please provide a separate labeled set of extra clothing (with lots of undies and socks) to be kept in the napping room.

Full day, four-year-olds are not required to take naps, but they can easily be accommodated if a parent or teacher feels that taking a nap would benefit the child. Please talk to your child’s teacher if you would like your child to nap. All Preschool and Kindergarten classes will have a 20-minute quiet “brain break” each afternoon. CHA CENTRAL Throughout the year you will hear mentions of CHA Central. This is a dedicated page on the CHA website as a communication hub for families with up-to-date news and announcements, helpful tools and resources, and all of our forms. CHA Central can be accessed through the home page of our school website in the Parents tab or top menu bar. Please also be sure to refer to the CHA Parent-Student Handbook (also can be found on CHA Central) for all policies and procedures pertaining to the student body at large (i.e., reporting illnesses, emergency school closings, financial policies, etc.). PARENT PARTICIPATION AND SPECIAL DAYS We LOVE having parents, caregivers, and extended family in as volunteers; however, during Stage 4 of COVID we will not be able to have outside adults come into the building until Illinois returns to Phase 5 or the guidance for Phase 4 changes. PHOTO/VIDEO CONSENT The CHA Parent-School Agreement that all parents sign during the enrollment process gives Christian Heritage Academy their consent to use their child’s photograph and/or likeness for purposes of CHA advertising and promotional material in any manner and in all media, including the CHA website and CHA social media. Parents also grant CHA permission to use, post, and/or publish on the CHA website and post within the school grounds any original works created by their

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child. If a parent does not want to give permission for CHA to use their son’s or/daughter’s photograph, the parent must obtain a form from Adina Pascotescu, Registrar, to be kept in the student’s school file.

SCHOOL CALENDAR The CHA School Calendar is located in your Veracross Parent Portal (https://portals.veracross.com/cha). If you have any questions about dates, please do not hesitate to call the CHA Office at 847-446-5252. Please refer to the online school calendar occasionally throughout the year as changes do occur.

SCHOOL SUPPLIES Please look on CHA Central (Back-to-School Info) for a School Supply List. For convenience, school supplies may be ordered online through School Toolbox. Orders are shipped directly to your home. Students will only use their own supplies this year. It would be helpful for you to label supplies with your child’s name and put them together in a Ziploc bag or small container to fit in a small cubby. VERACROSS PARENT PORTAL Using a secure username and password, parents may access student information through their Veracross Parent Portal. A quick link to the Veracross login page is located on CHA Central on the CHA website. Please log in to your Portal to:

• Update your family's household/student information, including phone numbers, address, or family church. (To update existing emergency contacts or related people tied to your student’s record, contact Adina Pascotescu, Registrar, with change information.)

• Access classrooms news, including student lists, homework, classroom resources, grades, attendance, and report cards.

• Access the Staff Directory to contact teachers, staff, or administration. • Access the Family Directory tab to contact other parents. (Please note: CHA Directory information is

intended for CHA use only.) • View email messages sent to your family by CHA administration, staff, and faculty. • Access the School Calendar, including detailed dates/times of coming events.

FAMILY DIRECTORY & CLASS LISTS Class lists are found in your Veracross portal under the student’s homeroom. If assistance is needed to locate directories or if information is needed for a birthday party, etc. to send invitations, please contact Adina Pascotescu, Registrar. Parents may save or download/print a school-wide Family Directory for their home/car. (Please note that the directory is intended for CHA use only.) If needed, paper copies of the Directory are available in the CHA Office or by contacting Adina Pascotescu, Registrar. Please note that CHA directory information is authorized for school-use only. Bookkeeping questions can be directed to Sandi Decker, Coordinator of Financial Services at sdecker@christianheritage.org. Tuition invoices will be posted to your Veracross Parent Portal on the home page. If you would like to discuss financial issues, please call the Director of Finance & Operations, Tim Dinkelman, at 847-446-5252.