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First Steps Family Handbook Table of Contents GENERAL INFORMATION WELCOME MISSION STATEMENT VISION STATEMENT CORE VALUES SCHOOL AND ADMINISTRATION AND LEADERSHIP

FIRST STEPS DIRECTOR INFORMATION PROGRAMS

NIDO (INFANT) PROGRAM TODDLER PROGRAM PRIMARY (PRESCHOOL) PROGRAM KINDERGARTEN ASSESSMENT

ADJUSTMENT TO SCHOOL SUPPLIES

INFANT TODDLER PRIMARY

POLICIES & PROCEDURES ENROLLMENT PROCESS TRANSITIONS NEW STUDENT ORIENTATIONS TUITION PAYMENTS LATE PICKUP FEES ATTENDANCE

ARRIVAL AND PICKUP AND CUSTODY ORDERS VISITOR POLICY PARKING LOT MAP / DROPOFF LANE GARDEN MEALS NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY DISCIPLINE HEALTH SPECIAL NEEDS REFERRAL PROCESS ILLNESS POLICY AND PROCEDURE TOILET LEARNING VS. POTTY TRAINING DIAPERING PROCEDURE TOILETING PROCEDURE IS MY CHILD READY FOR TOILET LEARNING? SAFE SLEEP POLICY ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES WEATHER GUIDELINES OUTDOOR CLOTHING POLICY BIRTHDAYS MONARCH CURRICULUM HOME LANGUAGE POLICY MEDICAL AND DENTAL INSURANCE AND PROVIDER INFORMATION HEARING, VISION AND DENTAL SCREENING CONTINUITY OF CARE PRACTICES QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PLANNING

COMMUNICATION TRANSLATION INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION MRX (MONTESSORI RECORDS XPRESS) PARENT INVOLVEMENT PARENT / TEACHER CONFERENCES CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS RESOLVING PARENT CONCERNS CLOSURES SCHOOL CALENDAR

COMMUNITY RESOURCES REQUIRED: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HANDBOOK Please click here to go to the signature page.

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First Steps at Monarch Montessori Address: 4895 Peoria St. Denver, Co 80239

School Hours: 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM Website: www.MonarchM.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/monarchmontessori Smart Phone App: get the Monarch Montessori Denver app

(in the Andriod or Apple app stores) Text Alerts: get updates of school events and closures via text

***by texting the phone number: 81010 with this text message: @a6c4bb

WELCOME Welcome to First Steps at Monarch Montessori. This handbook outlines the procedures that make this program a unique and outstanding educational environment for children. Please use it to reference your questions. If you have further questions or need clarification, please do ask. Ongoing communication between parents and staff is vital for an excellent school experience.

MISSION We aim to help each child reach their full potential in all areas of life. Monarch Montessori provides a holistic approach to learning, based on the educational philosophy of Dr. Montessori. Our experienced educators tailor to the individual need of each child, while our program welcomes families of all race, ethnicity and economic background. This method will support our students as they become “ engaged learners today ” and the “ leaders of tomorrow.”

VISION The Vision of Monarch Montessori is to create a carefully planned Montessori environment which will enable the child to develop within himself, independence, selfdiscipline, selfrespect and respect for others and the environment. We believe that parents and the environment they create at home are the chief educational influences in the life of a child. As a school, we want to complement you in your work as a parent and help you in discovering who your child is and what his/her needs are as he/she begins the adventure of life. It is our aim to help your child become a creative, competent human being who is fully aware of him/herself, of others, and of the world around him. To recognize this vision, we have created a school where children can be themselves in an atmosphere of freedom and responsibility. It is a place where little ones will come joyfully and become absorbed and interested in their learning.

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http://www.monarchm.com/

http://www.facebook.com/monarchmontessori


CORE VALUES Our core values are keenly focused on:

Nurturing the love of learning through opportunities to engage in spontaneous, meaningful activities under the guidance of a Montessoritrained teacher.

A prepared environment where classrooms are well organized by curriculum area and meticulously maintained. The teacher monitors the child's progress though observation and extensive recordkeeping.

Mixedage groupings based on the scientific observations by Dr. Montessori of a child’s developmental stages. The natural development of a child proceeds through several distinct planes of development.

Self discipline develops when learning is an exciting process of discovery, supporting concentration and intrinsic motivation.

Holistic education that focuses on a child’s academics, creativity, physical and social

Dr. Maria Montessori saw that children underwent extraordinary transformations in overall happiness, selfconfidence and selfdiscipline when they were allowed to follow their innate needs. She saw that the work of a child, therefore, was fundamentally different to that of the adult: that the child worked for the joy of the process rather than for the end result, that the child had a need to repeat activities over and over until an inner need was fulfilled, and that the child was excited and energized through work, rather than burdened and fatigued by it. She felt that children only stopped loving learning when they were forced to go against their natural impulses.

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION AND LEADERSHIP Board Board of Directors [email protected]

Plan, develop and establish policies for the school School’s financial health Evaluation of Executive Administrative Team

Executive Administrative Team Executive Director Rob Clemens 303.712.2001 extension 331 [email protected]

Implementation of Mission and Vision Executive Administrative Team Management Oversight of Student and Personnel security

Associate Executive Director Noel GiamettaMagee 303.712.2005 [email protected]

Facility Operations and Management Human Resources, Benefits, Payroll Emergency planning

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mailto:[email protected]




Director of First Steps at Monarch Montessori Tammi Mobley 303.712.2006 [email protected]

Oversight of student academics (curriculum and classroom management) Management and development of teachers, subs and staff Family/ student orientation and transition planning and meetings Parent concerns CDHS compliance Colorado shines compliance Health department compliance

NONEXECUTIVE ADMINSTRATION Tuition and Billing Luisa Martin 303.712.2003 [email protected]

Billing: questions, credits, and adjustments Statements Tax information

Administrative Assistant Tahmea “Mea” Brunson 303.712.2001 [email protected] Leah Niu 3037122001 [email protected]

Coordinating extracurricular programs Swipe cards Lunch menus, allergies, medical conditions, health appraisals and Immunization records Enrollment Absences Pickup authorizations Security

PROGRAMS

Monarch is committed to creating community where the highest ideals of the Montessori philosophy are implemented. The objective of the program is to help the child achieve their fullest potential and mental ability. Monarch achieves this by carefully preparing a learning environment to meet each child’s developmental progress.

The Montessori approach places emphasis on educating the whole child, covering all aspects of development – intellectual, social, physical, emotional, and spiritual. Building upon children’s intrinsic desire to learn, Montessori created ideal environments full of opportunities for children to experiment and initiate their own education.

Nido (Infant) Community The infant environment (Nido) spans through ages six weeks through fifteen months. The nido is a prepared environment that simulates the home. The environment is warm, safe,comforting and stimulating for the infant. Montessori teaches that from the moment infants are born, they begin

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learning and observing their world. The scientific method explains how infants respond to touch, sound, light, taste and smell. From this it is determined, that learning continues every day through each experience. The teachers are talented at responding to the child’s needs in a holistic way which allows a fostering of developmental curiosity. Dr. Maria Montessori says, “Our work as adults does not consist in teaching, but in helping the infant mind in its work of development.” Each child is respected as an individual and the Nido serves as a safe and reassuring beginning. As a result, the child is a joyful and confident learner; happy to explore and practice new skills. The First Steps at Monarch infant environment stresses the importance of freedom of movement. The infants are free to move without restrictions. Through movement, the infant becomes more aware of their bodies and are able to develop coordination and flexibility without inhibition. You will notice that there are no “containers” in our classrooms (play pens, high chairs, cribs, bouncy seats, etc.) Group size and adult:child ratios are aligned with NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children).

Toddler Community The toddler program is designed for children fifteen months through three years old. The toddler classroom offers space for movement, space for individual work, and space for group activities. Toddlers are given the opportunity to work on the development of language skills, art, music, sensory skills, and practical life or life skills. Monarch uses a number of multisensory, sequential, and selfcorrecting Montessori materials to facilitate learning. The tasks in the classroom are designed so that each new step is building upon what the child has already mastered, thus removing the negative experience of frequent failure. A carefully planned series of successes builds upon inner confidence in the toddler child, assuring him that he can learn by himself. These confidence building activities contribute to the child’s healthy emotional development. A key feature of the toddler Montessori environment is a specific focus on developing the self which allows them to find a sense of identity. Independence is fostered in all life skills at this level. Group size and adult:child ratios are aligned with NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children). Toddler Community Daily Schedule:

7:00am 8:30am: Gross motor (physical development) activities (Dropoff in GMR Gross Motor Room)

8:30am – 9:00am: Breakfast 9:00am – 11:00am: Montessori Toddler 2 hour work cycle (academic skill

development) 11:00am – 11:30am: Outdoor play 11:30am 12:30pm: Lunch 12:30pm – 3:00pm: Nap 3:00pm – 4:00pm: Snack 4:00pm – 5:15pm: Toddler Aftercare (Group Enrichment) 5:15pm – 6:00pm: Gross motor (physical development) activities

** PLEASE NOTE: Unique to Montessori, is the 2 hour uninterrupted work period each day for Toddlers. Arriving late to school, interrupts the learning environment and distracts the other

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students in the class. Consistent schedules are important for toddlers to have successful days. Please make sure your child is settled in the classroom by 9:00am.

Primary (Preschool) Program For the preschool aged child three to six years old, the process of selfcreation is fostered at Monarch. Selfcreation is accomplished by providing an environment in which the child can develop independently at their own pace. Selfcreation creates opportunities for individualized learning allows the child to gain the social, physical, intellectual and emotional skills needed to function in society. The primary program is composed of all of the instructive materials developed by Maria Montessori with additional supplemental materials with music, art, and language components. The children learn through experiencing the joy of individual discovery and mastery on their own terms. Group size and adult:child ratios are aligned with NAEYC (National Association for the Education of Young Children). Practical Life On first entering the Montessori school, children are given the opportunity to develop important life skills which will allow them greater freedom in the classroom. They learn to manage their own clothes using dressing frames to practice buttons, zips, and bows. They are also shown how to care for their classroom, using childsized brushes and dusters. Primary children develop practical skills: pouring drinks from a pitcher, setting tables and, social skills which enable them to be capable, selfreliant members of the community. Sensory First learning is through the senses, Montessori schools use a range of well thought out exercises to help children sort, match, and compare objects by shape, size, touch, taste and sound. These early sensorial impressions boost children's powers of observation and discrimination, broaden their vocabulary and contribute to their later understanding of formal educational concepts. Language and Literacy Montessori's language materials are based on a carefully structured phonic approach to writing and reading. Recognized for their excellence, they are used widely in many non Montessori schools and settings where special help is required. Sensory learning begins by tracing sandpaper letters with their fingers while they are told the sounds. Soon they are writing simple words with movable letters, matching words with objects and reading their first stories in phonic readers. When asked how they learned to read and write Montessori children will often answer, "I did it myself." Mathematics Essentially, mathematics is about understanding relationships in the environment and being able to express them in mathematical terms. Montessori materials, like the number rods, golden beads and spindle boxes, are simple and interesting. They provide stepbystep learning. They are also selfcorrecting, which means that children can see at a glance if they have made a mistake and can put it right without a teacher's help. This enables them to progress at their own rate and understand each stage thoroughly before they move on to the next stage.

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Cultural In the Montessori classroom children use globes, puzzle maps, and flags to underpin activities which build their understanding of other countries, cultures, and people. Children are also taught to match, classify, and name the elements and species of the natural world using picture and name cards. Classroom plant growing and caring for pets help to form a bridge between the child's knowledge of the immediate environment and the wider world. Primary Daily Schedule

7:00am8:00am: Breakfast and before care in the cafeteria 7:45am8:00am: Dropoff lane at front entrance 8:00am8:15am: Welcome 8:15am11:30am: Montessori work cycle 11:30am 12:30pm: Lunch and recess 12:30pm: Pickup for children attending halfday 1:00pm–3:00pm: Rest and/or afternoon work 3:00pm3:30pm: Afternoon snack and pick up for the academic day 3:30pm6:00pm: Aftercare (afternoon gross motor and activities and group

enrichment) **Aftercare takes place on the playground, in the cafeteria, and in classrooms

Afternoon HalfDay Schedule

12:303:30pm:Arrival and work cycle (afternoon snack available on snack shelf for all students)

Children should be dropped off between 7:45 and 8:15 and picked up by 3:30 (unless attending before or aftercare or halfday). There is a dropoff lane is available daily between 7:45 and 8:00. The dropoff lane will include Primary staff to help children exit the car at the front door and walk them to the classrooms. **Please note: late arrivals interrupt the learning environment and distracts the other students in the class. In addition, it throws off your child’s routine, sometimes impacting their entire morning. Please avoid chronic tardiness and, all preschoolers should arrive by 8:15am each day to get the most benefit from academic learning. Before/After Care Before and after care is available for children as space permits, so please signup in advance, or for dropins please email the Director.

Before Care: Available 5 days a week between 7:00am – 8:00am After Care: Available 5 days a week between 3:30pm 6:00pm

ASSESSMENT Monarch has collaborated with Teaching Strategies Gold and Ages and Stages as well as Colorado’s Early Learning and Development guidelines for infants, toddlers and preschools to to design and implement Montessori lessons that align with these standards. The assessments are done daily and weekly and tracked in our MRX (Montessori Records Xpress) electronic software. Parents have a portal so that they can keep real time updated on their child’s developmental

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progress. Assessment results are used to individualize lessons given to each child as well as lesson planning for the entire class. Some Primary students are assessed using the MAP test, the results of this test, also directly link to the lessons given to those children.

ADJUSTMENT TO SCHOOL Each child adjusts to their new routine in a different way. A child entering preschool for the first time is similar to an adult starting a new job. It is a time of anticipation, fear of the unknown, new beginnings, changes in sleep patterns, mild fatigue, and mostly positive stress. The experience can be somewhat overwhelming. Normally, children are comfortable with the environment in approximately thirty days of consistent attendance to school. You may see some of the following changes in your child, but should subside within 30 days of regular attendance:

1. Sleeping difficulties such as changes in nap schedules, wakefulness or very deep sleep, occasionally nightmares. Sometimes this may cause or increase bed wetting.

2. Irritability due to mild fatigue. 3. Acting out other children’s behaviors (not always positive ones) 4. Testing and redefining limits. Your children will begin to feel more autonomous

and more grownup which will cause them to want more responsibility and control over their choices.

Suggestions to ease the adjustment:

1. Talk with your child prior to getting to school, about what their day will be like. 2. Match your home schedule to the school schedule prior to the start date and maintain

this on weekends. 3. Schedule an orientation to meet the child’s teacher and see the environment. The more at

ease you are the less tense the child tends to be, they respond to your emotions. 4. Maintain a consistent routine for dropoff and pickup, especially the first few weeks of

school. 5. Ensure your child has plenty of rest prior to having school in the morning. 6. Sharing pictures of the environment at Monarch (classroom, teachers, playground etc.)

and discussing them with your child at home is always helpful in subduing nervousness.

SUPPLIES Label Personal Belongings First Steps wants to help children be responsible for their belongings. Parents should label a child’s belongings for easy identification. At this age, things become easily misplaced which means that, reuniting your child with their belongings becomes much more likely when they are labeled. Each child will have a space to store personal items. For soiled clothing, each classroom has a dirty clothes bin on top of the student cubbies outside the classroom.

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What to Bring/Not Bring If your child has a special comfort item, they are welcome to bring it. However, the teachers will encourage it to be kept in their cubby during class time. Do not allow your child to bring expensive clothing, pets, money, electronic or weaponlike toys into school . The sun in Colorado is very intense and Monarch is active in protecting children from harmful UV rays. Teachers apply Rocky Mountain (kids formula) SPF 70 sunscreen to all children. Parents are welcome to bring an alternative brand and indicate the preference on the electronic waiver form.

Supply List Parents are asked to bring the items below because they are specific to your child’s needs:

Nido/Infants (6 weeks to 15 months) Sleep sac or footed pajamas are required for all children in the infant rooms Sheet for the child’s bed, standard crib size and taken home once a week to be washed Formula and/or breastmilk (marked with date and child’s full name) and a bottle for each

feeding (labeled with date and child’s full name) Extra sets of clothing Diapers and a box of wipes Diaper Cream with the exact name of diaper cream the family listed in the waiver form Hat for sun protection Family photo and a student individual photo Meals for students provided by the family until 14 months One month prior to child’s transition to the Toddler community Monarch will provide lunch

Toddlers (15 months3 years old) Do NOT bring sippycups, pacifiers and bottles for your toddler unless you have an

doctor’s note or have spoken with Administration to put an accommodation in place If enrolled fullday, a sheet and blanket for the child’s nap mat, standard crib size and

taken home once a week to be washed. At least three extra sets of clothing Inside shoes or slippers that the child can put on and take off independently Diapers and a box with wipes if child is potty training, plenty of underwear is needed Hat and/or sunglasses for sun protection Water bottle labeled with your child’s full name Nutritious afternoon snack. This can be prepackaged or homemade, as long as it is

labeled with the child’s first and last name. Family photo and individual photo of the student

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Primary (Preschoolers) and Kindergartners (3 to 6 years old) Do NOT bring your child pullups or diapers, unless an doctor’s note has been provided to

the school and the family has worked with Administration to put an accommodation in place

If enrolled fullday, a sheet and blanket for the child’s nap/rest mat, standard crib size and taken home once a week to be washed.

A least two extra sets of clothing Inside shoes or slippers that can be put on or taken off by your child independently Family photo and individual photo of the student Hat and/or sunglasses for sun protection Water bottle labeled with your child’s name

Clothing Each child must have seasonally appropriate “emergency” changes of clothing (underwear, socks, pants, shirt, shoes). Dress your child in comfortable clothing which he or she can easily fasten that is weather appropriate. Do not send your child in dressy clothes or clothes which hinder active participation. Provide clothing that is easily washable, because children will participate in art, cooking, water play and other activities that usually get dirty. Rubber soled sneakers or sandals (washable is even better) are an excellent choice of footwear. Make sure to label these with a permanent marker. See the attached Weather Guidelines for a temperature chart of degrees, corresponding length of outdoor play and required clothing.

POLICIES & PROCEDURES

Enrollment Process 1. Inquiry to school 2. Sign up for an tour online on our website: www.monarchm.com 3. Complete the tour 4. Turn in the enrollment page and deposit 5. Once those are turned in your account will be created and we will email you to set up new

student orientation 6. The following forms must be completed before a child can be enrolled:

a. Enrollment Page b. Tuition Agreement c. Family Handbook Acknowledgement (electronic form) completed d. Enrollment Waiver Form (electronic form) completed e. Developmental Questionnaire (electronic form) completed f. Current Health Appraisal signed by physician g. Current Immunization Record h. Swipe card and PIN issued and signature page completed i. Orientation visit must be completed to start school at Monarch

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New Student Orientation Meetings Orientation meetings happen with each student prior to their first day of school. Upon turning in all enrollment documents a new student orientation meeting is scheduled with the family, the teacher and the Director. The new student orientation meetings consist of getting to know the student, by understanding where the student is developmentally and what the goals of the family are for the student being in school. We align goals to ensure that the student is set up for success. The orientation meeting covers tips on making it a smooth transition, ensuring all paperwork is completed, going over illness, accident and incident reports. An introduction to Montessori philosophy and the classroom as well as a tour of the classroom. A welcome letter is given at the meeting that talks about supply list and daily schedule. Discussion of waivers, developmental form and handbook occur.

Transitions Transitioning a child to a new grade is an exciting milestone. Transitions occur when a child has mastered the skills expected in their grade and are ready to move to the next program. Developmental skills assessed as readiness, is the key to this process. Transitions do not necessarily happen on a child’s birth date, instead, teacher’s observe the child to determine when they have met the developmental expectations of the program. We take into consideration all areas of development, cognitive, social, emotional and physical. If the parents and teachers see a child is delayed in a developmental area and it is most appropriate for the child to not transition them, a physician’s note can be provided to postpone the transition.

Transition Process Often transitions are met with mixed emotions. They can lead the adult to feel nervous, apprehensive but also excited and curious. Our teachers are very familiar with this process and sensitive to the emotions of the child as well as the parents. The transition process is a collaborative process in which parents, teachers and administration works together to make the best decisions for students and the timing of their transition to the next grade. Monarch want parents to feel prepared so that they can show a confidant demeanor to the child. Additionally, parents, teachers and administration should pay special attention to be in tune with the child during this time, supporting them and giving them time to acclimate. When the transition period arrives, the parent will receive a call or email from Monarch administration as a notification of an upcoming transition. Administration will set up a meeting with administration, the parent, the current teacher and the new teacher to collaborate about the unique development of the child and our goals in the new grade level, we will set goals for your child’s development at this time. It is during this meeting that parents, teachers and administration will decide when the transition should begin. At that point, the child visits the new classroom for gradually longer period of time. This can be for a few days or two weeks depending on the child and how long it takes them to acclimate to the new environment. The previous teacher will help the student through the transition as much as possible. As part of the transition process, your child’s previous teacher will invite you to a parent/teacher conference to talk about everything they have learned in that grade level.

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The transition process is individualized for each student, and a custom plan is made for each student’s transition in the transition meeting. We discuss his or her needs and make plans to ensure that the transition is smooth. Transition aids are one way that we support students through transition. This can be a number of things including comfort items, a visual schedule, teachers to stay with students, introducing them to a friend so they have a buddy, teacher facilitated interactions, etc… and more.

Transition Meeting The transition meeting is a meeting that is initiated and coordinated by administration and involves the family, the new teacher, the transitioning teacher and an administrator. In the transition meeting we discuss goals, development and get to know the new teacher and classroom. This helps the student have a smooth transfer into the new grade.

Tuition Payment Policies There is a nonrefundable registration fee of $100 per child/$150.00 per family. Payment must be made in the form of a check or money order and must be made

payable to First Steps at Monarch Montessori. Payment is due by 6:00 p.m. on the day payment is due (monthly – 1st of the month,

semimonthly – 15th of the month.) If your child does not attend on the day payment is due, then you should make your payment on the business day prior to the due date to avoid late fees.

Late payment fee of $25.00 will apply if balance is not paid within 3 days of due date and 10% each day thereafter.

Late payment will result in suspension of child care until unpaid balance is paid. Accounts past due for more than 60 days will be referred to a collection agency and you

will be responsible for any collection costs incurred, including legal fees. A returned check fee of $40.00 will be assessed to every returned check. After two

returned checks, payments must be made by cash only. It is $10 to replace or purchase a third swipe card (two swipe cards per family are given at

time of enrollment). Illness Pickup

In case of illness the child must be picked up within the hour. All families must have backup care if a child needs to be excluded from groupcare. Tuition credit will not be given for days missed due to illness.

Contract Changes The parent/guardian is responsible for informing an administrator in writing of any contract

changes. Schedule changes must be submitted two weeks prior in writing to the effective date for

administrator approval and to affect the tuition rate. Changes in address, telephone numbers, and/or employment must be submitted in

writing immediately. Schedule availability is contingent on enrollment and classroom ratios. A $25 fee will be

applied to a reduction in days.

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Withdrawal A 30 day notice is required in writing when terminating care with First Steps at Monarch

Montessori of Denver. If your child is withdrawn without notice, you are responsible for 30 days of tuition, this was agreed to on your tuition agreement.

Please email the director with 30 day notification and the Director will respond with the link to fill out the electronic withdrawal form.

Please remember to return your swipe cards to the front desk on your last day.

Dropins Monarch is flexible, when possible, to accommodate last minute changes in parent schedules. Families can arrange for a full day dropin, add afternoon care, or before care by filling out a Dropin Form, located at the front desk. Please note that dropins are allowed only if ratios in the classroom do not exceed regulations. An administrator will notify you if this is the case. Additional charges for dropins apply.

Late Pickup Fees The Monarch Tuition Agreement informs parents that they are responsible for insuring that their child(ren) are picked up on time. However, emergencies can arise and parents/guardians should contact Monarch with the notice of tardiness. Calling the front desk is the best way to reach someone for notification, 3037122001. Halfday schedule late pickup at 12:31 the drop in fee for the PM half day and aftercare will be assessed to your account in the amount of $100. Pick ups after 6:00pm fees are assessed in 15 minute increments, at a rate of $20 per increment per child. All efforts will be made to contact the parent and/or responsible persons listed on the EMERGENCY CONTACT SHEET. If the child has not been picked up 45 minutes past closing, the Police and/or the Family Crisis Center will be called to pick up the child.

ATTENDANCE POLICY

It is in the best interest of the child for parents to maintain a regular schedule of attendance. Children adjust with ease the more time they spend in an environment. Infrequent attendance can be stressful for a parent and a child. First Steps at Monarch does not view itself as a daycare environment but rather a social learning environment for children. Parents are strongly urged to make every effort to schedule appointments and vacations during scheduled school breaks, or after the workcycle. Unique to Montessori, is the uninterrupted work period each day, 3 hours in preschool and 2 hours in toddlers. Tardiness interrupts the learning environment and distracts the other students in the class that have focused on an activity. In addition, it throws off your child’s routine, sometimes impacting their entire morning. Please avoid chronic tardiness and have preschoolers arrive no later than 8:15 am and toddlers arrive no later than 9:00 am.

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Arrival and Pickup

All students of First Steps must be checked in an checked out at the Kiosk in the main lobby. Each person has a specific pin and password for checkin and checkout. Attendance sheets will be maintained in each classroom for security and emergency purposes. Persons picking up must be at least 18 years or age or older and have written authorization to pick up a child. First Steps staff must require persons whom they do not recognize to show a picture ID before releasing the children. Monarch staff will not release children to individuals who are not authorized by the parent/guardian. Monarch staff will not release the child to anyone judged to be under the influence of drugs or alcohol. If someone seems to be under the influence, the authorities will be contacted in order to make a decision as to releasing the child. We ask your cooperation in insuring a smooth pickup of your child when someone other than yourself will be picking up your child: Please:

Authorize people to pick up your child by adding them to your enrollment page or on the “one day pickup authorization form” located at the front desk. Anyone picking up your child, needs to have written permission. Either via the enrollment page, one day authorization, or a follow up to a call via email.

Prepare your child ahead of time, if possible, and let them know that someone else will be picking them up.

Have the authorized person be prepared to show a picture I.D. Be available to receive a phone call if we have any further questions.

Custody Orders Teachers are instructed not to intervene with child custody situations or legal proceedings, please contact an administrator to help you with these requests. Monarch must have a court order to enforce any parenting time disputes. In regards to child custody, separation or divorce, Monarch will allow both parents’ pickup rights, tuition responsibility, access to student records and parentteacher conferences unless court orders, on file at Monarch, specify otherwise. The not authorized to pickup section of the enrollment form will be honored against other persons requesting to pickup your child, so long as Monarch has a copy of the court order.

VISITOR POLICY

To provide for the safety and security of employees, children, visitors, and facilities, only authorized visitors are allowed in the building. Restricting unauthorized visitors helps ensure security, decreases insurance liability, protects confidential information, safeguards employee and child welfare, and avoids potential distractions and disturbances.

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Teachers and Administration must be aware of persons who have entered the facility. Anyone who is not recognized will be questioned regarding the nature of his/her visit. All visitors must sign the visitors log and provide necessary information and identification upon entering the school.

PARKING LOT MAP/DROPOFF LANE

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The parking lot and front entry way is shared between two schools, First Steps at Monarch and Monarch Charter Elementary. Infant and Toddler parents can drop off and pick up at any time within the 11 hour daily time frame. To ease dropoff in primary, there is a dropoff lane available between 7:45 and 8:00 AM every day. Primary teachers are waiting at the front door to take kids out of the car, another teacher hands the signin clipboard to the parent and the child is walked directly back to the classroom; the parent never needs to get out of the car. To make this drop off lane work, the three parking spots directly in front of the school will not be available from 7:408:30. Please be aware that Monarch Charter Elementary has dropoff lane between 8:10 and 8:30 AM every morning. In addition, Monarch Charter Elementary has a pickup lane between 3:35 and 4:00 PM every day. These dropoff and pickup times often congest the parking lot, and it is advised to avoid the lot between those times. First Steps at Monarch Montessori does not have an afternoon drop off lane, due to the wide variety of pickup times.

QUALITY IMPROVEMENT PLANNING Monarch conducts an annual quality improvement meeting in which parents, community members, staff, stakeholders, board members and any persons wishing to engage in the quality improvement process for Monarch. In this meeting we will go over the most recent program evaluation and discuss quality improvement action steps that will be taken. A hard copy of the quality improvement plan can be provided by the Director or can be seen on our Parent board in the hallways. See Director for hard copy.

NOTICE OF NONDISCRIMINATORY POLICY AS TO STUDENTS

Monarch Montessori of Denver adheres to a policy of nondiscrimination in the admission of students. It admits students of any race, color, national and/or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at Monarch Montessori of Denver. The school does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and/or ethnic origin in the administration of its student admissions policies, employment policies, educational policies, and athletic and other school administered programs. Monarch assists families in getting assessments for students here is our referral process: Monarch Referral process (click here) NonDiscrimination Against and Accommodation of Individuals with Disabilities

1. Generally Monarch is committed to providing quality developmental education for each individual child. As part of that commitment, Monarch complies with all applicable laws provided for nondiscrimination in enrollment and participation against students and parents with disabilities. Monarch will not exclude any student or family from the full and equal enjoyment of its program on the basis of the student's disability, or the disability of the student's parent or another individual associated with the student, unless the student, parent, or other individual poses a direct threat to the health or safety of himself/herself or

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others at Monarch. Monarch also provides reasonable accommodations for students and parents as appropriate in accordance with applicable laws.

2. Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for a Student

The program makes a referral or provides referral information to the family as appropriate for any child for whom a developmental concern has been identified.Monarch works with childfind, Children’s hospital, and other community resources to identify and support interventions for children that are displaying developmental concerns. Parents of a student with disabilities who wish to request a reasonable accommodation(s) must submit such request(s) to the Director. Reasonable accommodations may include, but are not in any way limited to, the following:

Diapering students beyond the Toddler program or assisting with toileting. Monitoring or assisting with glucose testing and insulin use. Monitoring or assisting with oxygen, emergency medications, or medications to

alleviate chronic conditions. Providing alternate activities or incentive systems for students with cognitive,

social, or emotional disabilities. Assisting students with leg braces, crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs. Permitting the admittance of service animals or onetoone aides provided by the

student's family and meeting licensing and Monarch requirements. Permitting students to consume different foods and/or to eat at different times

than otherwise provided by Monarch’s menu and/or schedule. Permitting students to play indoors on days of extreme heat or cold, or with high

allergen levels or poor air quality. Providing or permitting the use of specialized or adapted furniture, utensils, cups,

toys, and books.

Upon receipt of an accommodation request, Monarch will meet with the student's parents to discuss and identify the precise limitation(s) resulting from the disability and the potential accommodation(s) Monarch might make to help overcome those limitation(s). Monarch will evaluate each student's specific abilities and needs on a casebycase basis, and will make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures as necessary to afford its services and facilities to the student, unless the modification would impose an undue burden on Monarch or would fundamentally alter the nature of Monarch’s services. Monarch will take necessary steps to ensure that any reasonable accommodation is integrated into the usual routine and programs at Monarch to the greatest extent possible. Parents are required to provide all equipment, medicines, medical supplies, food, and other materials or supplies that are not otherwise regularly provided by Monarch, as well as containers for proper maintenance and disposal of all materials or supplies. Parents may be asked to assist in training Monarch staff in the use of the materials or supplies, and to assist with proper disposal of the same.

3. Requesting a Reasonable Accommodation for a Parent or Other Individual Parents

or other qualified individuals with disabilities also may submit a written request for reasonable accommodation(s) to the Associate Director. For example, such reasonable accommodation may include providing a sign language interpreter for a deaf parent at a

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significant or lengthy parentteacher meeting. Upon receipt of an accommodation request, Monarch will meet with the qualified individual with a disability to discuss and identify the precise limitation(s) resulting from the disability and the potential accommodation(s) Monarch might make to help overcome those limitation(s). Monarch will determine the feasibility of the requested accommodation(s) in accordance with applicable laws.

4. Medical and Other Documentation Parents of a student with disabilities are

encouraged to submit a request for reasonable accommodation as far in advance as possible in order to allow Monarch adequate time to consider the request and to work with the parents to obtain any medical or other documentation that may be necessary to consider or provide the requested accommodation. Depending on the type of disability and the requested accommodation, such documentation may include:

A Medical Management Plan detailing all necessary care for the student's

medical and/or behavioral management and signed by the student's physician and parents.

Any other healthrelated documents deemed relevant by the student's physician; A list of emergency contacts, which may include the student's physician,

available by phone each day that the student is attending Monarch. Information regarding use and disposal all equipment, medicines, medical

supplies, food, and other materials or supplies to be provided by the student's parents that are not otherwise regularly provided by Monarch and that are necessary to meet or comply with the student's Medical Management Plan and any other healthrelated documents provided by the student's physician.

Written authorization to undertake steps indicated on the student's Medical Management Plan, such as administration of medication or performance of other medical tasks.

A general release and waiver of liability for care in a form required of all students as a requirement of attendance, signed by the student's parents, which releases Monarch and its agents from liability stemming from any action relating to the care of the student.

Parents are responsible for keeping the documentation uptodate and for informing Monarch immediately of any change in the student's disabilities, needs, and/or health. Successful participation and accommodation of children with disabilities depends on an actively cooperative relationship and ongoing communication between the parents and Monarch.

SPECIAL NEEDS Monarch coordinates and/or collaborates with community service providers listed on the last pages of this handbook as well a;, families, school district personnel, agencies, private practitioners, doctors and community leaders etc. In order to design learning activities that aid in in meeting outcomes/goals of individualized Family Service Plans (IFSP), Individual Education Programs (IEP), School Readiness Plans, Individual Learning Plans, and or other individual plans. Monarch supports and assists with the obtainment and implementation of IFSP, IEP and 504’s.

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REFERRAL PROCESS

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DISCIPLINE “We claim that an individual is disciplined when he is a master of himself and when he can, as a consequence, control himself when he must follow a rule of life” (Maria Montessori). “The discipline we are looking for is active. We do not believe that one is self disciplined only when he is artificially made as silent as a mute and as motionless as a paralytic. Such a one is not disciplined but annihilated. We claim that an individual is disciplined when he is a master of himself and when he can, as a consequence, control himself when he must follow a rule of life.” (Maria Montessori). Monarch is a no expulsion early childhood education school. At Monarch we believe that every child has the right to an education and that every child has the right to be safe. Our discipline policy is based on the principles of respect for each child and respect for the rights of all members of the classroom. Appropriate use of nonviolent communication is an unwavering expectation and students are taught that there is zero tolerance for violence or bullying from students or staff at Monarch. A significant portion of the Monarch curricula involves the development of personal responsibility for actions and a respect for others as members of a common and shared environment. As children develop behaviors are displayed and it is the role of the adult to respectfully mold appropriate actions. First Steps at Monarch Montessori has three rules. The following ground rules positively remind children how their behavior should look and why, these are the only three rules that FSMMD has:

Respect yourself (keep yourself safe) Respect others (keep others safe) Respect the environment (keep the environment safe)

Our policy is to help children to arrive at inner discipline through concentrated work. Discipline is based on a positive attitude towards children and to this end, the staff models grace, courtesy, respect and problemsolving skills. Natural and/or logical consequences are used as a means of helping the child to develop inner limits and problem solving skills.

If a child is disruptive or endangers others, teachers immediately intervene, in as positive a manner as possible.

If a child has trouble settling into the class on any day, the child is redirected to an activity by the teacher.

If the child is still unable to settle down, the teacher will intervene and may have the child remain in close proximity until the child is able to calm down.

When an incident occurs, the teacher or staff person involved will submit a summary of the incident on an Incident Report form.

If behavior becomes extreme, the teacher will schedule a meeting with the parents and, depending on the circumstances, with an administrator. Teachers, parents, and child will work together to modify behavior via a behavior modification plan.

If a pattern of disruptive behavior develops a behavior modification plan will be put in place the plan has the following aspects:

o Teachers will record behavioral observations and visually observe the child until the behavior changes.

o The teacher will inform the student’s parents o Appropriate staff will be notified.

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o The student, teacher, parents, and administrator will work together to modify behavior and when appropriate additional professional help will be required, this is often in the form of a behavior plan.

Behavior modification plan We ask for parents to work cooperatively and closely with the teachers and administrators so that peaceful behavior becomes an expectation both at home and at school. If an ongoing behavior problem occurs, such as hitting, kicking, or biting, parents will be notified, and we will work within reasonable limits to resolve the problem. Parents, teachers and administration will meet to discuss how to help the child be more successful at changing behavior. Behavior modification plans include observation, documentation of at least 24 weeks, frequent communication home with parents, goal oriented focus with results that can be measured. Behavior modification tools are sometimes used such as sticker charts and daily email reports of behavior. If substantial behavior plan attempts have been made and the child is not responding to behavior modification plans and additional supports and accommodations, Monarch reserves the right to unenroll a child due to the safety of their classmates or staff in the building.

HEALTH

General Health Appraisal, Immunizations, vision screening, dental screening and other health requirements A requirement of the State of Colorado division of Childcare Licensing is that all children have a General Health Appraisal and Immunization form signed by a physician prior to starting school. These must be updated at every wellchild checkup at 2,4,6,9, 12, 18 and 24 months and every birthday thereafter. For your child’s immunization record, we will need an update each time your child receives an immunization. If your child is not immunized for religious or medical reasons, please notify the administration, as we will require that you sign a refusal form. Monarch accepts children who have not been fully immunized, but if an outbreak occurs, the child will be excluded from attending during that period. Our Immunization rate as of Jan. 15, 2015 is 91%. In addition to the requirements listed above, all children must have a hearing, vision, and dental screening upon the age requirements listed on their General Health Appraisals per Colorado State regulations. Families can obtain the required screening from these resources. Monarch can assist you in finding resources for these screenings if you need them. Resources are listed at the back of this Family Handbook as well. We do ask parents if they have already received these screens in our enrollment process through the electronic form “Enrollment waivers”.

Medication A Medication Administration Form, signed by a physician and parent, must accompany any medication (both prescription and nonprescription) . Please give all medication directly to the Director, not to the teacher. The director will lock it in a cabinet unless it requires refrigeration or is an emergency medication. The medicine must be in its original container and have the

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pharmacy prescription label. The medication administration form, can be picked up from the reception desk or downloaded off the website. Only staff members authorized to administer medicine will do so.

Allergies In order for our staff to better serve your child, it is imperative that parents inform staff of any allergies that the child may have or had, for example, food, medication, sunscreen or other substance. If your child has an allergy or a special diet, it must be documented by your child’s doctor. An Allergy Action Plan form, signed by the physician and parent, accompanied by appropriate medication with original packaging and label from the pharmacy, must be on file. If the doctor is not able to provide a allergy plan a refusal form must be signed by the physician and parent.

ILLNESS POLICY AND PROCEDURE Monarch has an illness policy and procedure in place. For illness, we follow the Department of Public Health and Environments guidelines for infectious disease in child care settings you can find those guidelines by clicking here: DPHE Illness Guidelines . If your student is sent home for illness, there will be a illness report given to you with the date that your student may return to school as well as if there will be a doctor’s note required for their entrance back into school.

Illness Enrolling your child at First Steps at Monarch Montessori means you are entering them into a group learning environment. Illness, no matter the steps we take, will occur. All Monarch parents are encouraged to secure alternative child care options for when unexpected illnesses arise. We have set in place strict policies on when a child must be excluded from a group learning environment and when a child can return to the classroom. According to state licensing requirements and for the protection of all children, First Steps cannot accept children with any of the following symptoms:

Elevated temperature (fever of 100 degrees or higher) Two or more vomiting episodes within 24 hours Two or more episodes of diarrhea within 24 hours or diarrhea that cannot be contained

within garments Undiagnosed rash Discharging from eyes Diagnosis of a contagious disease, the child must be on medication for 24 hours, or home

until illness has cleared with verification of a doctor’s note In addition, Monarch staff may ask for a doctor’s examination of any symptom mentioned

or not mentioned above. If a child is too ill to participate in daily activities and require 1 on 1 attention, a parent

may be asked to pick them up. Please see the state of Colorado infectious disease in early childhood settings link for illness guidelines that we strictly follow Colorado ECE Infectious Disease Control .

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Please notify the teachers when your child is ill so that we can watch for a trend among other students or staff. It is required that we post communicable diseases on the parent board. The Monarch nurse or administration will notify the health department and/or state of Colorado Department of Human services in the case of communicable diseases outbreak. Watch your child for signs of illness and DO NOT send him/her to school if he/she appears to be sick. It is not fair to the other children or the teachers to be needlessly exposed to coughs, runny noses or other symptoms, and will probably result in a call shortly after you drop them off, to pick them up.

Fever reduction If a child becomes sick during the day. Parents will be notified to come and pick up their child within the hour. Taking a Tylenol and returning the next day after a high fever is not acceptable, they must remain home until symptoms have cleared for 24 hours. Children cannot return to school on fever reducing medication. Parent cooperation and staff adhering to the illness policy is paramount to reducing the spread of illness. Sanitation and hand washing guidelines are carefully followed by staff to reduce germs. The Monarch nurse closely monitors medications, illnesses and procedures within the school. Please help yourself to hand sanitizer, located throughout the building, to limit introducing additional germs.

MEDICAL AND DENTAL INSURANCE AND PROVIDER INFO First Steps documents that each child has medical insurance and a medical home in our enrollment packet and process of new student orientation. If medical and dental coverage is needed we offer referrals to community resources, such as Denver Health. (Please see Community Resources Section.)

HEARING, VISION AND DENTAL SCREENING First Steps documents that each child has received a hearing, vision and dental screening through the enrollment and new student orientation process, if they have not we recommend community resources in getting those completed.

CONTINUITY OF CARE PRACTICES First Steps at Monarch has primary care providers that are consistent and committed to their classrooms. Each classroom has a Lead teacher and a teacher’s assistant. Both work together to provide the best possible care to their students. When appropriate we implement primary care giving for students enrolled in our program. We do this by assigning one staff that is the primary care giver ie; feds them, changes them, assists in sleep, etc… so that the child feels safe and the freedom of consistency.

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TOILET LEARNING VS POTTY TRAINING Montessori philosophy allows us to incorporate toilet learning as a natural part of our daily routine and learning. Thus, pointing out that there is a difference between toilet learning vs. potty training. To read about this peice of the Montessori philosophy click here: Learning vs Training . To better understand if your child is ready for toilet learning, please click here to read these important tips: Is my child ready for toilet learning?

DIAPERING PROCEDURE Montessori philosophy allows us to incorporate toilet learning as a natural part of our daily routine and learning. This is the procedure that we use (click here): Diapering Procedure .

TOILETING PROCEDURE Montessori philosophy allows us to incorporate toilet learning as a natural part of our daily routine and learning. This is the procedure that we use (click here): Montessori toileting procedure

SAFE SLEEP POLICY Providing infants with a safe place to grow and learn is very important. For this reason, Monarch Montessori has created a policy on safe sleep practices for infants up to 1yearold. We follow the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Consumer Product Safety Commission to provide a safe sleep environment and reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). SIDS is “the sudden death of an infant under 1 year of age, which remains unexplained after a thorough investigation.” The staff, substitute staff, and volunteers at Monarch Montessori follow the AAP safe sleep policy. Click here for more information on the policy: Safe Sleep Environments for Infants Sleep Position:

Infants will be placed flat on their backs to sleep every time unless there is a physician, practitioner or clinician signed sleep position medical waiver up to date on file. In the case of a waiver, a waiver notice will be posted at the infant’s crib without identifying medical information. The full waiver will be kept in the infant’s file.

Infants will not be placed on their side for sleep. Devices such as wedges or infant petitioners will not be used since such devices are not

proven to reduce the risk of SIDS. Infants who use pacifiers will be offered their pacifier when they are placed to sleep, and

it will not be put back in should the pacifier fall out once they fall asleep. Pacifiers will be cleaned between each use, checked for tears, and will not be coated in

any sweet or other solution. Parents are asked to provide replacement pacifiers on a regular basis.

Sleep Environment:

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Our program will use Consumer Product Safety Commission guidelines for safetyapproved cribs and firm mattresses.

We will not use cribs or playpens for infant sleep Infants will not be placed to sleep on any standard bed, water beds, couches, air

mattresses, or on other soft surfaces. Only one infant will be placed to sleep on each futon. Siblings, including twins and

triplets, will be placed on separate futons The futon will have a firm tight fitting mattress covered by a fitted sheet and will be free

from blankets, loose bedding, toys, and other soft objects (i.e., pillows, quilts, comforters, sheepskins, stuffed toys, etc.)

To avoid overheating, the temperature of the rooms where infants sleep will be checked and will be kept at a level that is comfortable for a lightly clothed adult.

Sleep clothing, such as sleepers, sleep sacks, and wearable blankets, may be used as alternatives to blankets.

Bibs and pacifiers will not be tied around an infant’s neck or clipped on to an infant’s clothing during sleep.

Smoking will not be allowed in or near Monarch Montessori Supervision:

When infants are in their futons, they will be within sight and hearing of staff at all times. A staff member will visibly check on the sleeping infants frequently When an infant is awake, they will have supervised “tummy time.” This will help babies

strengthen their muscles and develop normally Infants will spend limited time in car seats, swings, and bouncer/infant seats when they

are awake Infants will not be allowed to sleep in a car seat, even at the parents request

Training:

All staff, substitute staff, and volunteers will be trained on safe sleep policies and practices.

Safe sleep practices will be reviewed with all staff, substitute staff, and volunteers each year. In addition, training specific to these policies will be given before any individual is allowed to care for infants.

Documentation that staff, substitutes, and volunteers have read and understand these policies will be kept in each individuals file.

All staff, substitutes, and volunteers at will be trained on first aid for unresponsive infants as well as what to do when they have a question or need assistance before they are allowed to care for infants.

When The Policy Applies: This policy applies to all staff, substitute staff, parents, and volunteers when they place an infant to sleep at First Steps at Monarch Montessori. Communication Plan for Staff and Parents: Parents will review this policy when they enroll their child at First Steps at Monarch Montessori and a copy will be provided in the parent handbook. Parents are asked to follow this same policy when the infant is at home. These policies will be posted in prominent places. Information regarding safe sleep practices, safe sleep environments, reducing the risk of SIDS in child care

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as well as other program health and safety practices will be shared if any changes are made. A copy will also be provided in the staff handbook. Any individual who has questions may ask: Program Contact: Tammi Mobley Director 3037122006 or [email protected]

FIRST STEPS GARDEN First Steps has a garden located just outside of the playground. Students help in the garden plant, water, pull weeds and pick vegetables. Students will be allowed to try food from the garden.

MEALS We want mealtimes to be a pleasant experience for the children. Freshly cooked and prepared meals will be provided by the school. Our menus are designed with the guidance of a nutritionist. We ask that parents encourage their child to eat what is given as school and avoid bringing outside food, unless there is a dietary or medical need. Our staff is very conscientious of food allergies and sensitivities, and the best way to do this is to know exactly what food the children will be exposed to. Infants Nutrition is supplied by parent until one month prior to the child’s transition to the Toddler Community at 14 months. Toddlers – Breakfast, and lunch provided daily by Monarch Montessori. Parents bring afternoon snack for their child, labeled with their child’s first and last name Primary Students Lunch and afternoon snack is provided daily. Breakfast provided from 7:00am to 8:00am only. Morning snack is available to children during the workcycle and is provided by parents. Parents rotate through a schedule to provide morning snack for the class of 2026 students, each family will be responsible for at least one snack week per year. Please remember that all foods must be in the original packaging, no homemade foods. Here is a copy of the portion sizes we offer to children: Food Chart

ACCIDENTS AND EMERGENCY PROCEDURES Teachers are First Aid, Universal Precautions and CPR certified. We will call you or your emergency contact person to notify of an accident or injury. When there is no question that your child must be taken to the doctor or the hospital, we will call you to inform you of our course of action as soon as possible. It is vital that you keep our staff updated on changes in your phone number at home, at work and cell phones . We will call 911 in case of emergency or health concern is present that we need medical assistance. In the event of a child being transported to the hospital via ambulance, someone that the child knows will accompany them to the hospital. Administration will call parents and or emergency contacts immediately and give updates of any information we have.

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Evacuation Emergency In case of a fire, all children will evacuate to the lawn outside the building and remain there until the fire department has completed an inspection of the building and determined that it is safe to return to the building. Fire drills are practiced regularly.

Tornado warnings In the event of a tornado warning, all students will remain in designated areas throughout the building and will not be released until an official “all clear” signal has been received by the school. Parents and caregivers are welcome to join us in the buildings for protection, but will not be permitted to leave until the weather emergency has cleared.

Relocation off campus Certain emergencies may require an evacuation of the campus. In this situation all students will be moved to a nearby building and parents will be called to pickup students.

Lock Downs If we are notified of a dangerous situation in our area, the school will go into lockdown. During this time our students will be expected to remain in their classrooms, quiet and out of sight. No one will be allowed to enter the building. Lock Down drills are practiced throughout the year.

Lost Child Every effort is made to keep all children safe. In the event that a child is missing, a search will be started immediately. If necessary, the parents and the authorities will be called to assist in the search. Parents, please make sure to close the classroom door behind you upon entering and leaving the classroom and assist us in educating your child of the importance of staying with the teachers.

Report of Child Abuse Monarch is a licensed childcare facility. All staff has a legal and moral obligation to report suspected abuse or neglect. If you, as a parent, feel there is a suspicion of abuse occurring, please seek assistance by calling the Child Abuse Hotline at (720) 9443000. If you have a concern about the Early Childhood Program not following Childcare Regulations, you can seek assistance by calling the Division of Child Care at (3038665958).

WEATHER GUIDELINES

Weather Hotline: 3033372500 Or use the Weather Channel App for zip code 80239 We follow this guideline policy set fourth by the State of Colorado Childcare Licensing: weather guidelines .

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OUTDOOR CLOTHING POLICY **Please be sure to label everything with fabric tape and fabric marker. (Print using capital and lowercase letters.) Monarch Montessori First Steps in accordance with Colorado Rules and regulaons governing child care centers, requires that all enrolled children have appropriate clothing available at the school for outdoor acvies in a wide range of weather condions. We take advantage of the outdoors because we believe that young children learn through sensory exploraon and need natural experiences in nature. Children not appropriately dressed will miss these opportunies. Your child is currently in need of:

____Miens ____Winter Hat

____Snow Pants

____Boots

____Sun Hat

____Light Jacket

____Long Sleeved Shirt

Please bring this/these item(s) to school ASAP. If you are having any difficulty obtaining these items for your child to have at school, please let us know so that we can assist you. Children not wearing clothing that will keep them safe in inclement weather will stay in the office while the other children are outside. If you have any other quesons or concerns about the school’s policy and/or the Colorado regulaons, please feel free to contact the office and we will be happy to answer your quesons. Thank you for your cooperaon in helping us maintain a safe environment for the children

BIRTHDAYS The Montessori curriculum celebrates birthdays as a history lesson and teaching the child about the passage of time. This abstract concept becomes more tangible and meaningful as the child carries a globe around the sun. Each year of a child’s life marks the measurement of one year, which is one full revolution of the earth around the sun. The teacher may ask you to participate on that day or provide a picture for each momentous year. You may want to display these pictures on a poster or bring them in for the child to build a timeline of their own life for their celebration.

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Consult your child’s teacher about the particulars of your child’s birthday. Parents may bring an icy pop( otter pop) only. Please refrain from bringing any alternative snacks to class to minimize complications from food allergies or additional sugars. Children with summer birthdays may schedule an "unbirthday" celebration (usually around their half birthday). Please discuss with the teachers in advance to plan this. If a birthday is to be celebrated away from the classroom and the entire class is not invited, please be considerate of the children's feelings and mail the invitation and thank you notes. If the entire class is invited, you may distribute the invitations at school.

MONARCH CURRICULUM What makes Montessori Education Unique? The "whole child" approach. The primary goal of a Montessori program is to help each child reach full potential in all areas of life. Activities promote the development of social skills, emotional growth, and physical coordination as well as cognitive preparation. The holistic curriculum allows the child to experience the joy of learning and to develop selfesteem and independence. The "Prepared Environment". In order for selfdirected learning to take place, the whole learning environmentroom, materials and social climate must be supportive of the learner. The teacher provides necessary resources, including opportunities for children to function in a safe and positive climate. The teacher thus gains the children's trust, which enables them to try new things and build selfconfidence. The Montessori materials. Dr. Montessori's observations of the kinds of "toys" which children enjoy and return to play with repeatedly led her to design a number of multisensory sequential and selfcorrecting materials which facilitate the learning of skills and concepts. Our teachers follow "Montessori principles" as they structure new activities for the classroom.

The Teacher. Originally called a "Directress" the Montessori teacher functions as a facilitator of learning. She is a role model, designer of the environment, resource person, demonstrator, recordkeeper and observer of each child's growth and development. She encourages, respects, and loves each child as a special, unique individual; she also provides support for parents and joins them in a partnership to nurture the development of the child.

What Makes Monarch Unique?

Monarch Montessori of Denver was developed in 2010 by a group of dedicated Montessori educators looking to bring a unique design into practice. The vision was to create a stable environment in which a child could continue growth within the Montessori practice from infancy through fifth grade. Elements of the program cater to the various needs of families and children in the surrounding neighborhoods. Parttime schedules for infants and toddlers allow children to experience the curriculum without needing to be away from the parent/primary caregiver 5 days a week. Extend hours and yearround care caters to working parents.

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How Does Montessori Work? Each Montessori class, from infants through preschool, operates on the principle of freedom within limits. Every program has its set of ground rules which differ from age to age, but is always based on core Montessori beliefs: respect for each other and for the environment. Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen, either alone or with others. The teacher relies on his or her observations of the children to determine which new activities and materials he may introduce to individual children or to a small or large group. The aim is to encourage active, selfdirected learning and to strike a balance of individual mastery with small group collaboration within the whole group community. The threeyearage span in each class provides a familylike grouping where learning can take place naturally. More experienced children share what they have learned while reinforcing their own learning. Because this peer group learning is intrinsic to Montessori, there are often more conversationlanguage experiences in the Montessori classroom than in conventional early education settings. Our Goals for the Child

To develop a positive a positive attitude toward self, other and the environment. To develop a high sense of selfesteem To develop a habit of concentration for lifelong study skills To develop and foster curiosity To acquire the basic skills necessary for a lifetime of learning. To foster inner discipline and sense of order To develop habits of initiative and persistence To develop socially acceptable behavior To develop the child's innate, ultimate potential through high selfexpectations.

The Monarch Educator Our teachers are passionate about changing the way students are taught. They have successfully completed required trainings and have the utmost respect for the child as an individual. They are absolutely committed to their students’ developmental successes and truly care about fostering an excitement to discover. Our teachers model and expect students to be caring and compassionate. They are creative, relentless and unbelievably motivated. They work together, learn from each other, and do whatever it takes day in and day out to make sure their students succeed. We expect all teachers and assistant teachers to:

Observe all federal, state, local and other applicable laws and regulations pertaining to the delivery of the early learning programs of Monarch Montessori.

Assume the responsibility of carrying out one's work in the best interest of the children and families served by Monarch Montessori.

Demonstrate loyalty to Monarch Montessori and provide the best possible service based on individual capacity

Create a positive, prepared environment for students. Focus on student development, noting special needs of individual students. Approach learning on a holistic front, developing the child’s sense of self.

August 2016


Confront a challenge, and be willing to examine themselves personally and professionally and be eager to receive thoughtful, constructive feedback.

Collaborate with families and be sensitive to the individual approaches and parenting styles.

Remain open to teacher training and excited to implement what is best for the child.

COMMUNICATION Open communication between parents, teachers and administration is valued at Monarch. In the Infant and Toddler programs daily notes are recorded for parents about the day at Monarch; how much food was eaten, bowel movements, temperament, sleep and interactions. Weekly every parent receives a classroom newsletter emailed from their child’s teacher. Newsletters will include upcoming events, birthdays, transitioning students, pictures of activities, notes about the curriculum and any other reminders. Notes from the Administration are emailed monthly, with news about upcoming information sessions, events, school activities, improvements and reflections. Parents are encouraged to sign up for Remind101 to receive text message notifications about school events, emergencies and closures. Each parent needs to sign up by texting the code that corresponds with your child’s grade to 7206276769. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Infant parents text @fsmmd Toddler parents text @fsmm Primary (preschool) parents text @fee72

Parents will also be able access menu information and general announcements for First Steps and Charter through a phone app Parents will be asked to fill out a survey each year. Your input is helpful for us to use in improving our program. We encourage asking questions and giving praise on a regular basis, as well as offering suggestions since we are here to meet the needs of our community.

TRANSLATION Monarch offers translation services in house as well as offers community resources for translation. If translation is needed, we can sometimes translate however, we offer families these two handouts upon arrival at the school. We offer translations for school events, parent/teacher conferences, administration communication, teacher communication, and many other things. Please see Director for help accessing these resources. We do have a Spanish version of enrollment and school documents.

1. Translation Resources 2. The Translation and Interpretation Center Flyer

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https://drive.google.com/a/monarchm.com/file/d/0Byc353s4ekxCYmN3aXhkODBYdUE/view?usp=sharing

https://drive.google.com/a/monarchm.com/file/d/0Byc353s4ekxCdTltVmFCcnRSdlE/view?usp=sharing


HOME LANGUAGE POLICY First Steps at Monarch Montessori honors each child’s home language and encourages home language development by having at least one caregiver/teacher in each classroom who is bilingual if there is a dominant second language in the classroom. Additionally, over 90% of our classrooms staff a full time bilingual teacher. See Director for more information.

INFORMATION DISTRIBUTION The cubbies, emails, bulletin boards, newsletters and MRX comprise our information delivery system. Each child has an assigned cubby where clothes, blankets and items may be stored. Classrooms use a Folder or cubby in which you may find creations your artist made in class for the fridge, in addition to notes from the teacher or administrator. Please check your child’s cubby frequently. Emails are a favorite form of information distribution for our school, please read the newsletters carefully and update us when your email changes. If this is not the best way to communicate with you, please let us know so we can arrange an alternative method.

MONTESSORI RECORDS EXPRESS (MRX) MRX is a progress monitoring program that allows teachers to quickly and easily document student capacities across a broad range of developmental categories. MRX has been aligned with the national standards of growth for children ages six weeks through six years old. MRX will be used to track development and growth of the children at Monarch. MRX reports will be shared with parents regularly to monitor development and set academic goals with students and parents. We will review growth of students throughout the year. Monarch hopes to use this program to better align instruction when students transition between teachers and as a way to enhance effective teaching strategies and student growth. MRX Parent Portal Email: Parent Portal Email

SCHOOL CALENDAR Please keep our school calendar handy and refer to it often for a listing of special events, holidays, and closures held throughout the year. The calendar is available on the website, app, and in the lobby. FS School Calendar

PARENT INVOLVEMENT Parent involvement is always welcomed. There are opportunities to volunteer in the classroom, and at events. Stay tuned to the classroom and administrator emails for opportunities. Each classroom typically has a Room Parent, organized by the PTO, to better connect the parents

August 2016

https://docs.google.com/a/monarchm.com/document/d/1LsTs8FFKCGgSzTa6Eahu6ykQQnCKy6M_C1RKOeN2XL4/edit?usp=sharing

http://www.monarchm.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/2016-2017-MMFS-Calendar.pdf


and school. We do have numerous family events scheduled throughout the year. We hope that your family will take the opportunity to visit with the staff at that time. We even have a very active Parent Teacher Organization that meets every month at school. Join in the fun, and learn about what is happening on campus at the same time! [email protected] School Board Meetings will be posted in the front lobby 24 hours in advance. They are always open to the parents. If you wish to speak at the Board Meeting you must contact them in writing, five days in advance of a regularly scheduled meeting. [email protected]

PARENT / TEACHER CONFERENCES Monarch wishes to maintain excellent communication between home and school, as we believe that it enhances a student’s needs being met. Conferences are important times for parents and teachers to touch base about the progress of students and to establish goals for the following term. Parent/teacher conference days are listed on the school calendar for Primary and will be scheduled by your child’s Infant or Toddler teacher. Teachers are available to meet with parents at times other than regularly schedule conferences. Please contact the teacher to arrange a day and time. Parents are kindly requested to respect the need for our teachers to be focused on students when conducting a class.

CONFIDENTIALITY OF STUDENT RECORDS Monarch stresses the importance of protecting the rights and privacy of children, their families and our teachers. The practice of maintaining the confidentiality of verbal information and written records is a basic policy of our school. This practice is in accord with one of the primary ethical principles of professional behavior in early childhood setting. Legal parents and guardians have the right to view any and all records, files and data directly related to their children. Parents/guardians who desire to review these records are requested to contact an administrator to schedule an appointment.

RESOLVING PARENT CONCERNS When parents have concerns, they are expected to speak directly with the teacher most directly involved with the concern. Constructive feedback is welcomed and teachers will make an effort to address the concern in a manner that works for both the parent and the school. The school expects that its staff will handle concerns and comments with professionalism. It is also requested that complaints will not be vented to office staff, other parents, or anyone else not directly involved with the matter. If you are not satisfied with the resolution after meeting with the teacher, or would like a second opinion, please contact the Director.

August 2016



CLOSURES Please refer to the school calendar for holidays, closures and breaks. Typically on holidays and professional development days childcare is not provided. Standard monthly tuition is due for all months no matter closures or holidays.

Severe weather First Steps will follow Denver Public Schools weather closure procedure. If DPS is closed, so is First Steps. First Steps does reserve the right to close or delay service even if DPS is open. Every effort will be made to reach a decision by 5:30 AM and to inform parents via news channels, school website, Remind 101 text messages, Facebook, and the school app. Closing and delay decisions are made based on the ability of staff and parent to safely drive. If the weather becomes severe during the day and the administration may decide to close school earlier than the normal posted time (6 pm). In this situation staff will remain with students until all children have left the building. Parents will be expected to follow the closings on Channel 4,7 and 9 News, Monarch website, Facebook page, School App, or Remind 101.

NonService Days First Steps at Monarch Montessori of Denver will be closed for the following days: (refer to the school calendar for specific dates) Labor Day, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, Martin Luther King Day, President’s Day, Spring Break, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Staff Development Days and a modified schedule on Parent Teacher Conference days.

COMMUNITY RESOURCES Monarch coordinates and/or collaborates with families and the following community resources/agencies to help with the needs of the families and students that we serve. Community resources are discussed in the new student and transition meetings with families. Child and Adult Care Food Program 3036922330 https://w w w .colorado.gov/pacif ic/cdphe/cacfp Colorado's Healthier Meals Initiatives https://w w w .colorado.gov/pacif ic/cdphe/coloradoshealthiermealsinitiative Connect for Health Colorado 8557526749 http://connectforhealthco.com/ Cooperative Extension http://w w w .ext.colostate.edu/cedirectory/countylist.cfm Health Departments 3036922000 https://w w w .colorado.gov/pacif ic/cdphe/f indyourlocalpublichealthagency Healthy Child Care Colorado 3033396800 http://w w w .qualistar.org/healthychildcarecolorado.html InfantSEE Program

August 2016


8883963937 http://infantsee.org/ Integrated Nutrition Education Program https://w w w .cow pcolorado.com/ Medical Home http://coloradomedicalhome.org/ PEAK: Medical, Food and Cash Assistance Programs 3038663122 http://coloradopeak.force.com/?fs=y&lang=en Playground Safety 1800554PLAY http://w w w .playgroundsafety.org/ SNAP: Food & Nutrition Assistance 3038663122 http://w w w .colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/CDHSSelfSuff /CBON/1251580884676 Women, Infants and Children (WIC) Program 3036922400 https://w w w .colorado.gov/pacif ic/cdphe/w iccontacts

Denver 311 Connecting Citizens w ith Services Denver 311 is a link for nonemergency services and communications betw een citizens and the City and County of Denver. We strive to accomplish this goal in a personal, timely, eff icient, accurate and measurable manner.

Denver Human Services Can provide assistance to parents for food, housing, clothing and childcare (CCAP and DPP). The dedicated staff at Denver Human Services (DHS) are here to listen and advise, helping people apply for public assistance programs. We can provide information about food assistance and f inancial assistance , as w ell as help for veterans and those w ho need long term care . DHS provides a range of other services, including help w ith transitional housing , medical assistance , and heating costs . For more information, please call DHS Customer Service at 7209443666. Denver Preschool Program The Denver Preschool Program's tuition credits help Denver families pay for high quality preschool for their 4yearolds. The amount of support a family receives depends on family size and income, the quality of the preschool chosen, and the child's level of attendance. Denver Preschool Program tuition credits are available for ALL Denver families regardless of income w ith a child in their last year of preschool before kindergarten. Link to apply: http://w w w .dpp.org/_docs/DPP2014020AapplicationEnglish.pdf Child Abuse Hotl ine Statew ide: 1844CO4Kids (2645437) or in Denver: 7209443000

Family Crisis Center The Family Crisis Center provides a range of services and settings that offer hope and opportunity for children and their families w ho are experiencing severe familial issues, including neglect, abuse and separation. Residential Care for Boys & Girls at the Family Crisis Center: Our residential programs serve boys and girls f rom ages 12 through 17 by providing:

Temporary shelter w hile children/youth are aw aiting a more permanent placement setting Residential treatment services for youth w ho have a psychiatric diagnosis General and Special Education programming through an on site school that is highly individualized and

technologically supported Therapeutic services (case management; referral; community integration; crisis intervention; family, group

and individual counseling; substance abuse and psychiatric services) Recreational programming (art therapy, physical f itness, teambuilding, outdoor excursions and cultural

activities) We use a “systems” approach w hich emphasizes w orking w ith the child’s family and environment. In order to ensure continuity of care, therapy services that begin w ith us can be continued as the child transitions home or to the next placement. Several hundred children are placed at the Family Crisis Center every year.

Food Assistance Most low income households can get help paying for food and DHS w ill help you apply for these benef its. Find out if you are eligible by going to the “ Can I Get Food Assistance ” page of the Colorado state w eb site. Applying for Food Assistance: Step 1: Get an application, Online: Click here to apply through PEAK. Inperson: You can come to any of our off ices, Monday Friday, 8:00a.m. 4:30p.m., and pick up an application:

August 2016

https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denver-human-services/assistance-programs.html





https://www.denvergov.org/content/denvergov/en/denver-human-services/assistance-programs/medical-assistance.html


http://www.colorado.gov/cs/Satellite/CDHS-SelfSuff/CBON/1251586542908

http://coloradopeak.force.com/


Castro Building, 1200 Federal Blvd, Denver, CO 80204 East Off ice, 3815 Steele St., Denver, CO 80205 Montbello Satellite Off ice, 4685 Peoria St. , Denver , CO 80239

Mail or Fax: We can send an application to you by mail or fax – please call us at 7209443666 to have one sent to you.

FOOD BANKS: House Beside The Road Food Bank & Resource Center 3420 Franklin St.Denver CO, 80205. Main phone (303) 2938995 Surplus government commodities may be offered. Other food assistance in Colorado includes The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP), summer meals, snacks for students and more. Denver Urban Ministries (DenUM) Address 1717 E Colfax Ave. Denver, Colorado, 80218. Phone number (303) 3554896 Food is distributed, and get help in applying for various social service programs. Social w orkers can help clients apply for f inancial aid, or benef its such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or WIC. There are also meals on w heels for seniors in Denver, snacks for children, and more.

Bienvenidos Food Bank Location 2224 W 32nd Ave, Denver, CO, 80211 Dial (303) 4336328 His Love Fellowship 910 Kalamath St. Denver, Colorado, 80204

Child Find Child Find is part of Colorado's system for identifying children suspected of having a delay in development. If a young child is not meeting typical developmental milestones, or someone is concerned about the child’s grow th or learning, child f ind teams w ill evaluate how the child plays, learns, speaks, behaves and moves. The purpose of the evaluation is to determine if there is a signif icant delay or if there is a need for early intervention or special education services. Evaluations conducted by Child Find teams are at no cost to parents. Contact Information: Adams County School District 50 Child Find Coordinator: Dennis Mulcare (35) (720) 5424520 [email protected] Laura Welp (03) (720) 5424522 lw [email protected] Fax: (303) 4872859/ (303) 4872859 / (303) 6573846 Adams 50: 8030 Irving St., Westminster CO 80031 Special Education Director: Dr.Steven Sandoval (303) 6573861 Superintendent: Pamela Sw anson Cities: Arvada, Denver, Westminster, Federal Heights M edical, Dental and Vision Insurance Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+) is public low cost health insurance for certain children and pregnant w omen. It is for people w ho earn too much to qualify for Medicaid, but not enough to pay for private health insurance. In October 2015 there w ere 47,027 Coloradans enrolled in Child Health Plan Plus (CHP+).

Who Qualif ies? Children age 18 and under and pregnant w omen age 19 and over Applicants w ith household income under 260% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) Colorado Residents Permanent legal residents w ho have had an Alien Registration number for at least 5 years, a refugee or asylee Applicants not eligible for Medicaid Applicants w ho do not have other health insurance

CHP+ covers: Primary Care Emergency Care and Urgent Care Hospital Services Dental Care (for children only) Prescriptions Immunizations Maternity Care (prenatal, delivery and postpartum care) Mental/Behavioral Health Care How can I apply? Apply online at Colorado.gov/PEAK or ConnectForHealthCO.com Apply in person Apply by phone at 18002213943 / State Relay: 711 Apply by mail

Medical Attention Children's Hospital Colorado on Anschutz Medical Campus provides comprehensive medical care for kids f rom birth through adolescence. In addition to being the only pediatric Level 1 trauma center in the region, w e treat virtually all conditions, minor and serious, that affect children. Learn more about the broad range of conditions w e treat . Our physicians are experts in treating kids and understanding their special needs. They understand that a child's illness or injury, no matter how big or small, affects the entire family. Our doctors are pediatric specialists in a w ide range of f ields f rom pediatric emergency care to primary care. We also provide hospital services, w ith doctors solely

August 2016

http://www.colorado.gov/pacific/sites/default/files/2015%20Agency%20Letters%20CHP%2BIncome%20Chart%20Final.pdf

http://coloradopeak.force.com/

http://connectforhealthco.com/

https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/contact-hcpf#CL

https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/how-to-apply#by-mail

http://www.childrenscolorado.org/home/home

http://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-symptoms/overview

http://www.childrenscolorado.org/conditions-symptoms/overview

http://www.childrenscolorado.org/about/find-a-doctor/find-a-doctor


dedicated to caring for kids during their hospital stay and maintaining communication w ith your primary care physician. Our w orldclass facility is located near the intersection of I225 and East Colfax Avenue in Aurora, minutes from dow ntow n Denver. You can learn more about our campus w ith our virtual tour. Dental Attention Green Valley Kids is a pediatric dentistry practice that makes going to the dentist fun and easy for kids. As a dedicated pediatric specialist, Dr. Chris is able to provide expert care w hile using his dow ntoearth personality and sense of humor to help kids relax.Schedule an Appointment: 303.371.4485 Clothing Denver clothing closets. The entire Denver Colorado metro area is supported by a number of nonprof it clothing closets, charities, and organizations that can provide basic needs to the low income. The items distributed w ill vary greatly, and can include clothes for babies and pregnant moms, household goods, hygiene items, affordable furniture, and Christmas assistance. While most of the agencies w ill try to provide the items for f ree, some centers may resort to selling gently used goods at a low cost. People of all ages and genders can receive help and applicants come f rom all nearby counties, including Jefferson, Adams and many others. They w ill also try to provide clothing for activities that can lead to self suff iciency. So this means people w ho are going on an interview or starting a new job can get professional w ork attire. Children and students can get f ree school supplies, w inter coats and uniforms. A number of other assistance programs are offered in Denver as w ell. Birthline, Inc. of Colorado. Address 2346 Gilpin St. Denver, CO 80205. Call (303) 8322858.

Clients and families w ith a referral can receive children, baby, and maternity clothing. Social service agencies can provide those referrals. Free or low cost clothing, outf its, shoes, and more is available for children up to the age of 14. Diapers, formula, and other items may be provided to new borns as w ell. Clothes To Kids of Denver, Inc. 2890 S Colorado Blvd, Unit 15P, Denver, Colorado 80222. Main number is (720) 3794630.

The program they run is know n as Clothe a Child and Change a Life. This is offered year round and w ill help parents shop for gently used goods. Denver Rescue Mission, Main address 1130 Park Ave West, Denver, Colorado 80205, (303) 2940157. A second location is at 3501 E 46th Ave, Denver, CO, 80216. Telephone number is (303) 2971815.

Limited amounts of clothing and hygiene items are provided to men, w omen, and children in need. Gently used clothing can be received once every tw o w eeks. The nonprof it serves the entire region, including Douglas and Jefferson.

Government utility bill assistance

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Block Grant is funded by the Federal Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and provides tw o basic types of services. Eligible low income persons, via local governmental and nonprof it organizations, can receive f inancial assistance to offset the costs of heating and/or cooling dw ellings and/or have their dw ellings w eatherized to make them more energy eff icient. Information on LIHEAP by state .

Applications for the program are usually processed by community action agencies. These nonprof its also have information on many other resources that may be able to help w ith paying utility bills. Find how to get help w ith heating bills f rom assistance programs offered by your local utility companies, charities and local government. Or read more on LIHEAP .

LIHEAP crisis programs can be an option for low income families that are faced w ith an emergency such as a disconnection or that are very low on heating oil or fuel. Grants and f inancial assistance can be paid out directly to your energy company for your unpaid bill. The funds can be expedited to households that are faced w ith a shut off of their electric or utility service. Learn more .

The Weatherization Assistance Program w ill provide f ree energy conservation and w eatherization services to those in need to help improve the energy eff iciency of homes. Some services included are w eatherstripping, w all and attic insulation, minor home repairs, and furnace tune ups. There may be other related energy saving measures that w ill help people low er their electric bills and save money. More on w eatherization assistance .

The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) w ill provide f inancial help to eligible households w ho need assistance paying bills. Applications are available for senior citizens and the disabled before others, and they receive priority to any funds. The resources provided w ill offset the costs of paying for the heating and/or cooling bills of dw ellings.

Regulations on Heating and Uti l i ty Disconnections Most states have law s that regulate w hen an utility company can disconnect a customers service. Typically they state that companies can’t disconnect your pow er during the cold w inter

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http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/lheap_assistance.html


http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/community_action_agency.html


http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/electric_bill_help_needs_met_t.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/heating_and_utility_liheap_cri.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/weatherization_assistance_prog.html


or hot summer months. Families w ith children of ten have additional law s protecting them, as w ell as if the customer has a medical need. Learn more on utility disconnection law s .

Telephone and Internet Low income families can receive discounts on their monthly phone bills f rom Lifeline, f ree cellular phones, or even savings on their high speed cable Internet connection. Some of these services are combined w ith other electric bill programs as w ell, such as LIHEAP, so a customer w ill automatically be eligible for them. Click here telephone and internet programs .

State Assistance Programs Many states offer additional assistance programs, in addition to LHEAP , that can help you and your family w ith paying utility or heating bills. There may also be programs that w ill help you save energy by reducing your electric bills through energy saving methods, such as the installation of new appliances, f ree insulation, etc. More .

Heating Repair Replacement Program (HARRP) This is another federal government funded program that is usually offered by your local community action agency. It may be called slightly different names in each state, bit it w orks the same in most parts of the country. It is of ten used in conjunction w ith the Weatherization program. It can provide for the repair or replacement of heating units, appliances, furnaces, and other home upgrades. Read more .

Heating bill programs Free and Discounted Home Heating Oil . The Citizens Energy Oil Heat Program has delivered millions of gallons of discounted and f ree home heating oil to elderly households and those low er income households that are struggling. There is support for those living in poverty or impacted by an emergency, such as a job loss. More.

Another option is to use a home heating oil buying network . Companies that offer this service are in effect acting as a w holesale heating fuel oil buying club that provide individuals w ith low er priced heating oil. Read more .

Winter Protection Programs and Plans are seasonal resources that are generally offered during the colder w inter months. Some states require that utility and natural gas companies offer these plans to all customers. Households that are facing a disconnection of their utilities or heating service, but that have a senior member, young child, or someone that is sick or disabled, may be protected f rom a shut off of their account as long as they enter into some sort of payment program. More w inter protection plans .

Financial resources and weatherization services offered by utility companies

Utility Company Assistance Programs . Most utility companies and energy providers located around the nation provide their customers w ith a large number of f inancial assistance programs. The resources range f rom cash grants to credits on an account for any bills in arrears and w eatherization options. Get more information on energy assistance .

Energy Assistance Programs In addition to LIHEAP, there are numerous energy assistance programs at the local, state, and federal level. Programs are even offered by utility companies themselves. Continue .

Assistance w ith water bills American Water operates subsidiaries across the country. They offer their customers tw o different programs that can help them w ith paying their w ater bills. They include the H2O Help to Others and the Low Income Payment plan. Learn more on the options that you have. They also provide f ree audits that can reduce your usage.

Nonprofit organizations that provide help

Community Action Agencies Almost 1,500 counties across the country have local, nonprof it organizations know n as Community Action Agencies. These organizations of ten administer as w ell as accept applications for various energy assistance programs, including LIHEAP. The agencies can also refer you to additional resources in your local area. Read more on how to get utility bill assistance f rom community action agencies

August 2016

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/utility_and_heating_disconnect.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/telephone_assistance_program__.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/telephone_assistance_program__.html


http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/state_aid_and_assistance_progr.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/heating_repair_and_replacement.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/free_home_heating_oil_and_fuel.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/heating_oil_buying_networks_an.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/winter_protection_plans.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/energy_assistance.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/energy_assistance_program.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/get_help_paying_water_bills.html



Dollar Energy Fund Several states, including WV, TN, PA, OH, MD, and VA participate in this program. It has been in existence for almost 30 years, and hundreds of thousands of people have received grants for paying their utility and heating bills. Read more .

Free Legal Assistance Most states have nonprof it law f irms that can advise low to moderate income individuals, the elderly, and disabled on their legal rights w hen it comes to utility service disconnections. There is priority given to people w ith a medical condition or that are elderly. Law yers can provide f ree legal advice and w ill do w hat they can to help the individual keep their pow er on. Read more .

Operation Roundup An assistance program offered by many utility companies. They w ill provide cash grants to help pay utility, heating, and other bills. For example, you can even get help w ith rent, medical expenses, or food aid. More .

Salvation Family Emergency Services Low families in a crisis can alw ays turn to The Salvation Army for f inancial help or referrals. The Salvation Army Family Emergency Services addresses basic human need by providing a "safety net" for those w ho need help paying bills and have now here else to turn to. They w ill provide clothing, food, utility bill assistance and also counseling.

Case w orkers at the Family Emergency Services help prevent homelessness through crisis intervention. Since having your pow er shut off is one form of homelessness, the agency may be able to help w ith this. Contact your local Chapter for more information. Find a listing of Salvation Army, Community Action Agencies and other nonprof its in your area. Click here .

The National Fuel Funds Network This is a nationw ide, nonprof it organization that is comprised of hundreds of community action agencies, utility companies, fuel banks, and other agencies. They are involved in raising money for charitable causes, advocating on behalf of the poor, and offering other help and guidance. All funds raised go tow ards helping families pay their electric and heating bills or paying for conservation measures. Read National Fuel Funds Netw ork energy bill programs .

IMPORTANT RESOURCES THROUGH THE STATE OF COLORADO SUPPORTING EARLY CHILDHOOD CARE & EDUCATION

Colorado State Sponsored Sites

Bright by Three (formerly Bright Beginnings) general resource and infant support/ toddler education. www.brightbythree.org

Colorado Department of EducationCommon core, alternative teacher education. www.cde.state.co.us

Colorado Early Learning and Development Guidlines www.cde.state.co.us/early/eldgs Colorado Shines main clearing house for ECE information.

www.coloradoshines.com Early Childhood Colorado http://www.earlychildhoodcolorado.org/ PDIS, Professional Development Info System https://www.cde.state.co.us/early/pdis QRIS, Quality Rating Information System

http://www.coloradoofficeofearlychildhood.com/#!coloradoshinesqris/c125n Qualistar (resource and referral, staff training, and general support.

http://www.qualistar.org Other Montessori Resources

Colorado Montessori Associationgeneral advocacy and support www.coloradomontessoriassociation.org

August 2016

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/dollar_energy_fund.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/free_legal_advice.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/operation_round_up_assistance_.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/salvation_army_financial_assis.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/national_fuel_funds_network.html

http://www.needhelppayingbills.com/html/national_fuel_funds_network.html

http://www.brightbythree.org/

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

http://www.cde.state.co.us/early/eldgs

http://www.coloradoshines.com/

http://www.earlychildhoodcolorado.org/

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

http://www.coloradoofficeofearlychildhood.com/#!colorado-shines-qris/c125n

http://www.qualistar.org/

http://www.coloradomontessoriassociation.org/


Montessori Guide for use with the Infant /Toddler Environmental Rating Scale.

http://www.coloradomontessoriassociation.org/wpcontent/uploads/2015/04/ITERSRFinal.pdf/

Metro Migrant Education Program Migrant students are children from birth through age 21, of parents or guardians who have moved across state or school district lines, anytime during the past three years to seek or with the intent to obtain temporary or seasonal employemtn in agriculture, fishing, or related industries. Children can qualify even if their parents did not find the job they were looking for or if they have changed job since.

14707 E 2nd Ave., Suite 180, Aurora, CO 80011Phone: (303) 3655817

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF HANDBOOK I have received and read the Monarch Montessori 201617 Family Handbook in its entirety. I agree to follow all the guidelines stated within this handbook. This handbook MUST have an paper signed or electronically signed acknowledgement.

ACTION REQUIRED: PLEASE CLICK HERE TO SIGN THIS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

Electronic Signature Page

August 2016

http://www.coloradomontessoriassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ITERS-R-Final.pdf/

http://www.coloradomontessoriassociation.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/04/ITERS-R-Final.pdf/

https://docs.google.com/a/monarchm.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSc78lIjqKMayNWrY_b-Wjbh-yfYI71wH6zaqHT5P6F2szEBKA/viewform

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