The Learning World Academy Employee Handbook 2024-2025 PDF

` The Learning World Academy Employee Handbook 2024-2025 Welcome to The Learning World Academy! We are excited to begin the 2024-2025 school year with you as part of our TLWA team. Our goal is to make this year a successful and productive one for our children, parents, and staff. To help you get familiar with our Company, we encourage you to thoroughly read through this handbook. It was designed to inform you of important facts about your employment with us. We hope that you find it full of helpful and valuable information about the policies, benefits, and procedures within our Company. This handbook will also guide you in performing to the best of your abilities and realizing your potential as one of our valued employees. While the policies and procedures outlined in this handbook should answer most of your general questions, it obviously cannot cover every situation that may arise. If you have additional questions about these guidelines or need further information about any subject, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We hope you find that your work environment fosters teamwork and supports the efforts of all employees. We look forward to your contribution as an important member of our Team. Sincerely, The Learning World Academy 2 Index 1 Mission and Vision 17.4 Notice of Absence and Tardiness 1.1 Mission: Foster Children’s Desire to 17.5 Pattern Absence and Tardiness Learn 17.6 No Call/No Show 1.2 Vision: Inspire a Lifelong Passion for 17.7 Job Abandonment Learning 17.8 Jury Duty 1.3 Curriculum: Excellence In Education 17.9 Paydays 2 Your Career With Us 18 Student Portfolios (preschool )- 2.1 Outside Student Support Services Report Cards (K-8th Grade) 3 Child Safety and Supervision 19 Child Abuse 3.1 Ratios 20 Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect 3.2 Children’s Safety Guides 21 Field Trips 3.3 Key Safety of Children 22 Field Trips and Transportation 3.4 Children’s Cups and Utensils Procedures 3.5 Classroom Cleanliness and Safety 23 Chronic Disruptive Behavior 3.6 Toys 24 Discharge Policy 3.7 Accident/Incident Reports 25 Emergency Procedures 3.8 Diapering Requirements 25.1 Evacuation 3.9 Hand Wash Procedures 25.2 Lockdown 3.10 Food Service 25.3 Shelter-in-Place 3.11 Nap Time 26 Unexpected School Closings 4 School Property, Materials ,and 27 Lost or Missing Child Activities 28 Parents/Guardians Right To Access: 5 Front Desk Custody Battles 6 Cell Phones, Computers, Personal 29 Parent Referrals Information, Technology and Teachers 29.1 Transferring Students/Release of and children Records 6.1 Computer Usage, Personal 30 Sickness Policy Information and Technology 30.1 Sick Children 6.2 Teachers Who Have Children 30.2 Temporary Exclusion Policy 6.3 Private Education And Outside 30.2.1 When Will We Send a Child Home? Assistance 30.3 Notification of Infectious Diseases 6.4 Gifts and Injuries 7 New Staff Orientation 31 Medication 8 Activities 32 Allergies,Snack, and Lunch at Key 9 Staff Operating Policies Point 10 Planning Time 33 Birthdays and Treat Bags 11 Confidentiality Agreement 34 Playground Rules 12 Annual Evaluation 34.1 Water and Sand 13 During the School Year 35 Grievance Procedure 13.1 Our Uniforms Will Be 36 Children Discipline Policy 13.2 Unacceptable Attire Includes 36.1 Anti-Violence Philosophy 14 Summer Camp: Dress Code 37 Employment Termination 15 Policy of Reporting Information to 38 Participation and Soliciting Administration 39 The Learning World Handbook 16 The Learning World Employee Acknowledgement Retention & Benefits Policy 17 Vacation and Attendance Policies 17.1 Sick Days 17.2 Tardiness 17.3 Early Leave 3 ABOUT YOUR HANDBOOK The Company is committed to fostering and maintaining positive relations with all of our employees. We believe each employee deserves recognition, respect and fair treatment, and we are dedicated to promoting your personal growth and rewarding individual performance. To ensure that we provide a fair and equal work environment, this handbook outlines the current employment policies and procedures of the Company. The guidelines set forth in this handbook are largely a statement or clarification of existing policies and procedures. It is important for both employees and the Company to adhere to these guidelines in order to achieve the best working environment possible. Failure to follow these guidelines may result in corrective action up to and including separation from employment. This handbook does not create any kind of expressed or implied employment contract with any employee and should not be viewed as doing so. Employment with the Company is on an at-will basis, meaning that an employee or the Company may separate his/her employment at any time, with or without reason, and with or without notice. The policies outlined in this handbook are those in effect at the time of publication. Accordingly, the Company reserves the right to amend its policies and procedures at any time with or without notice. In addition, it may deviate or depart from, make exceptions to, interpret, and apply any of these provisions as it sees fit based on particular facts or changing circumstances or as it otherwise determines for any reason in its sole discretion. 4 1. Mission and Vision Mission: Foster children's desire to learn. Our mission is to cultivate a community of families and teachers working together to provide a safe, positive, and stimulating environment that fosters the physical, cognitive, social and emotional development of our students through teacher-facilitated learning and discovery. Vision: Inspire a lifelong passion for learning. Our Vision is to inspire lifelong learning in our students while helping them reach their full potential and positively contribute to society. Through whole-class discussions, small-group interactions and independent learning, we provide opportunities for students to develop critical thinking skills, actively listen, question, share and reflect. Curriculum: Excellence in Education. While maintaining the highest standards of the Competency Based Curriculum, The Learning World Academy provides the academic support and tools for every child to explore, investigate and build developmentally appropriate knowledge. The Learning World Academy is proud to sustain an integrative program that emphasizes the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of each child. We offer a solid Physical Education program combined with a healthy lifestyle, reinforced by our Gourmet Meal Program. Our program also offers innovative Cultural Arts Enrichment and Music Classes, directly connected with each class's interests and projects. The Learning World Academy is sensitive to each child's pace of learning. 2. Your Career with Us Every employee plays an important role in achieving and maintaining The Learning World Academy’s standard of excellence in all areas. We expect top performance, respect and honesty and open communication from all employees. Our continued success will be determined by the degree to which we exceed our customer's expectations daily and give them a reason to come back throughout their child’s academic career. Job Duties In order to enhance the learning process, staff is provided with tools including laptops, i-pads, and various software programs. You are expected to use these resources on a regular basis. Each position at our Company has specific job duties that need to be performed to enable the Company to provide superior service and to fulfill our mission, vision and uphold our values. Your job d \escription outlines most of the job duties that you will perform. At times you may be assigned additional duties by your Principal or Director. All job duties are designed to provide a safe, enjoyable environment for our children as well as a rewarding work environment for our employees. Your Director can provide you with a copy of the job description specific to your position. 5 Equal Employment Opportunities It is the Company's policy to employ, retain, promote, terminate, and otherwise treat any and all employees and job applicants on the basis of merit, qualifications, and competence. We are committed to providing equal opportunity in all employment practices including and without limitation to: selection, hiring, promotion, transfer, compensation, separation, and all terms, conditions, and benefits of employment without regard to any individual's race, color, religion, national origin, ancestry, disability, marital status, sex/gender, sexual orientation, military or veteran status, age, or any other category protected by federal, state or local law. The Company strictly prohibits any discrimination based on the above stated factors. Any employee, including a member of management, who participates in any act of discrimination, will be subject to corrective action, up to and including separation from employment. Orientation And Training In order to have accurate knowledge of your position, you will receive orientation and training during your first days of work. You will also be given access to manuals, curriculum and other tools necessary to perform your job duties. Additionally, you are required to understand and adhere to all childcare/school laws and regulations in the state of Florida. Over the course of your employment with the Company there will also be additional opportunities for ongoing training; both mandatory and optional programs will be offered to increase your performance in the childcare profession. Licenses If you are licensed, registered or certified in the education industry, you must provide a copy of the official documentation for your personnel file at the time you are hired and at each renewal. If your state law prohibits the copying of licenses, then verification must be made and completed from the original license and filed in your personnel file. If your position requires licensure by the state or certification by the professional society, you are responsible for keeping those licenses current; if your professional license has been denied, revoked, restricted or otherwise limited you must report this to your Principal or Director within 24 hours of notification. Failure to follow this policy may result in separation of employment. Criminal Convictions If you are charged with a felony or misdemeanor you must report the charge to your Principal or Director within 24 hours of the allegation or separation from employment may result. You must also report if you are being investigated by any governmental agency related to the abuse or neglect or the threat of abuse or neglect, of a child. An employee who is charged with a crime may be placed on unpaid administrative leave pending the outcome of the charge(s). Any conviction of a felony or misdemeanor for a crime involving children, violence, theft or illegal drugs will be grounds for denial of employment or immediate separation from employment. Meal And Rest Break The State of Florida does not have specific regulations regarding meals and rest breaks. In general, meal periods are 30 minutes in length and rest breaks are only taken as needed (restroom breaks). 6 In order to maintain clean, orderly, and pest-free classrooms, teachers are not permitted to eat lunch inside any of the classrooms. All meals should be consumed in the lunch area. Employment-At-Will Employment with the Company is on an at-will basis. You are free to resign at any time, for any reason, with or without notice. Similarly, the Company is free to conclude the employment relationship at any time for any lawful reason, with or without cause, and with or without notice. The lack of guarantee and lack of employment contract also applies to other benefits, working conditions and privileges of employment with the Company. The President and CEO of the Company is the only Company representative who has the authority to make any exception to "at-will" employment or to agree to employ any individual for a specified period of time. Any such exception must be in writing and signed by both the individual and the president. Staff Performance & Standards Of Conduct Employees of the Company represent both the company and its customers. Therefore, certain standards of professional and personal conduct are expected to be maintained. The general standards listed below define the ethical and professional standards by which employees should conduct their work and govern their relationships with the company, the customer, suppliers, and other employees. Each employee is expected to understand these standards and those that are unacceptable. Nothing in this policy, however, shall be deemed to undermine the at-will relationship outlined in this handbook. General Standards Of Conduct Appropriate employee conduct should reflect, but is not limited to the following guidelines. Perform your job duties and responsibilities for the benefit of the Company and its customers. Conduct all business in accordance with all laws, regulations, and Company policies. Treat fellow employees, customers and visitors respectfully and courteously. Avoid any action which could result in embarrassment, harassment or harm to another employee, a customer or the Company. This includes but is not limited to any activity which creates a public scandal or risks damaging the reputation of the Company. Adhere to work schedules/hours and assignments as established by your Principal or Director. Do not gossip or make false, fraudulent, disparaging or malicious statements regarding the Company, another employee or customer at any time or for any reason. Any type of disparagement to the Company, another employee or customer either during or after your employment will be taken very seriously and the Company is prepared to take any and all legal recourse available. Unacceptable Standards Of Conduct Employees should not engage in any conduct while in the course of performing their duties, whether on or off Company premises, which in the opinion of the Company or management, fails to promote the best interests of the Company or is detrimental to the welfare of the children, fellow co-workers or the customers it serves. This includes but is not limited to Company meetings, conferences, and special events. 7 Engaging in inappropriate behavior or communication including but not limited to acts of being flagrantly rude, swearing or telling off-color jokes or being disrespectful to a child, customer, visitor, co-worker or Manager. Violating state or federal laws, as well as child care licensing regulations or Company policies, including failing to follow mandated reporting policies. Failing to promptly disclose to the Company any misdemeanor or felony conviction (past or present) or arrest while employed. Failing to inform the Company of a state or federal agency allegation or investigation involving any form of physical, sexual or emotional neglect or abuse of a child or adult. Harassing children, customers, employees, or management, including, but not limited to sexually harassing, threatening; or physically harming children, customers, employees or management. Physical, verbal or emotional/psychologically abusing or threatening a child, customer, visitor, co-worker, or manager. Failing to report to work when scheduled, being absent or tardy excessively; abandoning your job, shift, or assigned work areas Refusing by words or actions to comply with a direct order from a manager or refusing a job assignment (i.e. insubordination) Conducting personal business on work time. Falling asleep on the job. Chewing gum around students Soliciting any family to disenroll their child, negatively influencing any potential customer or applicant of the company or soliciting families for outside work in lieu of or in addition to your company duties. Failing to follow company confidentiality policy and/or refusing to cooperate in an investigation conducted by the company. Possessing, selling, consuming or being under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while on the job; exceptions include those prescribed by a licensed physician (i.e. prescribed medications) Possessing a weapon of any type while in the course of performing your duties whether on or off company premises. Engaging in gross or reckless misconduct in the course of performing your duties, including but not limited to: engaging in acts of vandalism, gambling, fighting, or any other activity that endangers the health, safety or welfare of children or employees. Having sexually-oriented materials, including but not limited to photos including cell phone photos, sexting with or without photos, printed or Internet pornography, or videos in the presence of children or on company property. Taking a picture/video of a child, co-worker, customer or manager with your personal cell phone or personal digital device or posting a picture/video of a child, co-worker, customer or manager on the Internet (including social networking websites and media outlets such as FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM) Misuse, abuse, stealing, attempted to steal, or possessing company assets without authorization including, but not limited to property, funds, files, equipment, proprietary information and/or confidential information. Entering unauthorized work areas such as desks, computers, files and/or other secured areas. Falsifying any records or documents such as time cards, expense reports, employment applications, childcare records, customer records, accounting records and personal data, making statements known to be false that are intended to influence company decisions. 8 Divulging confidential company information that is not generally known to the public or other employees who are excluded from such confidential information/communication. Furthermore, any employee who violates state, federal, or local laws may be reported to the appropriate authorities and may be prosecuted to the maximum extent of the law. 2.1 Outside Student Support Services Job Goal To assist, support, and work closely with teachers, administrators, and other team members in providing educational benefits for students Job Duties All individuals who provide outside support must adhere to the following guidelines: Abide by the vision and mission of our school as well as the policies, procedures, and requirements set in place by The Learning World. Wear the school staff uniform if consistently in school. Partake in regular collaborative meetings with the classroom teacher and school administration. Work with individual students or small groups of students to reinforce learning of materials or skills initially introduced and outlined by the classroom teacher (s). Assist the classroom teacher (s) in devising special strategies for reinforcing learning materials and skills based on a sympathetic understanding of individual students, their needs, interests, and abilities. Perform instructional duties as assigned by the classroom teacher (s). Alert the classroom teacher (s) to any problems or special information about an individual student. Perform assigned supervision of student/s during lunch and play periods or on field trips (as applicable) Perform assigned non-instructional classroom duties, such as assisting with snack time, toileting, and clothing routines. Effectively collect and analyze data on student progress. Evaluations Evaluations for improvement may be conducted by the director or teacher(s). 3. Child Safety and Supervision 3.1 Ratios The following ratios are mandated by the Florida Department of Children and Families. The Learning World we will strive to exceed those ratios by including additional teachers and assistants as needed to assure the highest quality of care and education. Children from 12 months to 24 months old: One teacher to six children (1:6) Children from 24 months to three years old: One teacher to 11 children (1:11) Children from 3.1 years to four years old: One teacher to 15 children (1:15) 9 Children from 4.1 years old to five years old: One teacher to 20 children (1:20) 3.2 Children Safety Guides 3.3 Key Safety of Children Lead teachers and assistant teachers are equally responsible for the children's safety during the hours that the children are present in the school. Children need to be educated on issues related to security and safety. It is recommended to maintain conversations with them in that regard. Lead teachers and assistant teachers are solely in charge of the supervision of their respective classroom, including changing diapers, feeding children, and carrying the children in their care. Volunteers, substitute teachers, and teachers of special classes are not permitted to perform any of these activities. Do not allow children to enter inappropriate areas of the school such as the kitchen, offices, reception room, and parking lot, whether they are alone or with you. You cannot take children with you to perform any activity outside your classroom unless you have been authorized by the Principal or Director. Do not allow children to attend the bathroom by themselves. Each child is to be supervised and assisted by an adult at all times. Assistance includes, but is not limited to: getting toilet paper, washing their hands, etc. Children may not wander around the facility by themselves at any time. By no means are children allowed to sit on the bathroom floor at any time. Adult bathrooms are not to be used by children at any time. All faculty members must actively participate in the cleanliness and maintenance of the bathroom. Teachers must check bathroom facilities before children can use them. 3.4 Children’s Cups and Utensils Children must not share cups, spoons, or any other element before they have been sanitized. Do not discard any cups or utensils brought from the child's home. Make sure anything the child brings from home is returned at the end of the day. Do not discard any cups or utensils that belong to the school unless they are disposable. 3.5 Classroom Cleanliness and Safety Classroom tables and toys must be cleaned daily with a bleach solution that will be provided to you. We have two formulas of bleach solutions: one for toys and tables, and the other one for diaper changing tables. All outlets that are not already child proof must be covered with special outlet covers. Teachers are responsible for having all plugs in their classrooms covered. Push pins are not allowed in any classroom board. All cubbies and beds must be labeled using the provided template. NO SHARPIES. All children's belongings must be organized to keep the classroom organized. Do not spray Lysol or any other disinfectant while children are in the school. Do not leave wet carpets in the classrooms. Keep walls clean with the special sponges that will be provided upon request. 10 3.6 Toys and Personal Electronics Please do not allow children to bring any valuables, such as electronics, favorite books, jewelry, or toys from home. Please help your children understand why it is not wise to bring toys or other objects to school that they may not wish to share with the group and that may get lost. We cannot be responsible for lost or damaged items. Additionally, parents should not provide personal electronics for the children to use during school. If the Director and you allow children to bring a toy from home, it must meet these requirements: Toys must not have any sharp edges or points, small parts, pinch points, chipped paint, splinters, or loose nuts and bolts. Toys must have the capability of being washed and sanitized. Children are not permitted to play with any type of plastic bag, latex balloons, or latex/vinyl gloves. Toys must be too large to fit in a child's mouth, no coins, safety pins or marbles are allowed for children under four years of age. No shooting or projectile toys are permitted. No electronic games or toys are permitted. We do not accept any kind of gun, sword, or violent toy. Cloth toys must be flame-resistant. 3.7 Accident/Incident Reports Students must be observed by teachers every morning to detect any illness or rash that may be present when the child enters the school. All accidents and incidents, no matter how small or insignificant, must be documented on the corresponding Accident/Incident Form, and must be reported by the teacher to the Director, and the parent/guardian afterwards. We ask parents to communicate with the teachers regarding accidents that have occurred outside the school. In the event of accidental injuries, we will immediately call the parents or emergency contact person. If necessary, the child's doctor will also be called. In the event that the child's condition requires immediate medical attention, we will call 911 first and then notify the parents. All accident/incident reports must be legible, completed with black or blue pen, and must include the child's first and last name. In a situation where more than one child is involved, an accident/incident report must be filled out for each child involved. These reports must NOT include the name of any other children involved in the incident and/or accident. All accident/incident reports must be signed by the teacher, Director and the child's parent or guardian. Once completed and signed by all parties, it must be returned to the Director. Biting in Preschool- In the event that a child is bitten, the child will receive immediate care and attention from the staff. In addition, teachers must complete an Incident Report and notify the parents by phone. The family of the child who is bitten 11 will also receive the “Why Do Preschoolers Bite” form. The teachers must notify administrations before the child is released to the parents. 3.8 Diapering Requirements Hand washing facilities that include a basin with running water, soap, trash receptacle, and disposable towels or hand drying machines that are properly installed and maintained shall be provided in the infant room or in an adjoining room which opens into the room where infants or children with special needs in diapers are in care. Hands shall be washed and dried thoroughly after each diapering or toileting procedure, and all surfaces touched shall be cleaned and sanitized or disinfected to prevent the spread of germs. Hand washing sinks shall not be used for food service preparation or food clean up. The diaper changing area shall be physically separated from the food preparation, food service, and feeding area. When children in diapers are in care, there shall be a diaper changing area with an impermeable surface that is cleaned and sanitized or disinfected after each use. Children must be attended to at all times when being diapered or when changing clothes. Items unrelated to diaper changing shall not be stored in the diaper changing area nor shall they be placed on the diaper changing table. There shall be a supply of clean diapers, clothing, and linens at all times. When diapers, clothing, or linens that are in use become soiled or wet, they shall be changed immediately and properly disposed of. Soiled disposable diapers shall be disposed of in a plastic lined, securely covered container that is not accessible to children. The container shall be emptied, cleaned and sanitized or disinfected at least daily. Soiled cloth diapers shall be emptied of feces in the toilet and placed in a securely covered container that is not accessible to children. The container shall be emptied, cleaned and sanitized or disinfected, at least, daily. When the cloth diaper could not be completely emptied of feces, it will be discarded. Please note that this is for safety reasons to avoid contamination since bacteria found in feces is extremely hazardous. For children who are toilet-training, soiled undergarments shall be emptied of feces in the toilet and placed in a securely covered container that is not accessible to children. The container shall be emptied, cleaned and sanitized or disinfected, at least, daily. When the undergarment could not be completely emptied of feces, it will be discarded. Please note that this is for safety reasons to avoid contamination since bacteria found in feces is extremely hazardous. When children's clothes are dirty and the child does not have an extra change of clothes, the school will provide the child with the necessary school uniform. Teachers will request the items needed in the reception area and a form will be completed indicating the child's name, classroom, teacher's name, and who gave the item. Teachers must then notify the parents/guardians and inform them that if after one week the uniforms are not returned to the school, they will be charged to the parents’/guardians' account. If the uniforms are returned, teachers will have to return them to the reception area and make sure that the returned item has been dated and signed off. 3.9 Handwashing Procedures Employees, volunteers, substitutes and children shall wash their hands with soap and running water, dry thoroughly, and follow personal hygiene procedures for themselves, or while assisting others, and immediately after outdoor play. 12 3.10 Food Service Facilities shall provide sufficient age-appropriate seating so that children are seated at tables for meals. All the children must eat on a table, never on the floor, rug, ground, etc. Children shall be individually fed or supervised at feeding, and offered foods appropriate for their ages. Single service paper or plastic plates, utensils, and cups shall not be reused. Plates, utensils, cups, bottles, and sippy cups provided by the facility that are not disposable shall be washed, rinsed, and sanitized between uses. There shall be no propped bottles. If a child cannot hold the bottle, then a staff person or volunteer must hold the bottle during feeding. There shall be no automatic feeding devices unless medically prescribed. Formula shall be refrigerated and handled in a sanitary manner at all times. All bottles and sippy cups prepared and used continuously throughout the day or brought from home shall be individually labeled with the child's first and last name. Sippy cups and bottles brought from home shall be returned to parent/guardian daily. Heated foods and bottles must be tested before feeding to ensure heat is evenly distributed and to prevent injury to children. Lunch area must be cleaned up after lunch. Staff members are not allowed to warm up food for students in the microwave. 3.11 Nap Time Children are provided with an opportunity to sleep or rest at scheduled times. If the child is unable to sleep after 30 minutes of resting quietly, The Learning World provides spaces for quiet play. A minimum distance of 18 inches must be maintained around individual napping and sleeping spaces, except a maximum of two sides of a napping or sleeping space may be against a solid barrier, such as a wall. All cots and cribs must be labeled. The solid side of a crib does not meet the requirement of a solid barrier. Napping and sleeping spaces shall not be under furniture or against furniture that may create a hazard. Napping and sleeping spaces shall not interfere with exit areas, which must remain clear in accordance with fire safety regulations. Provide each child with a sheet to be placed on top of the cot or crib. Children will not be permitted to sleep on a bare, uncovered surface, and they may not share their bed or bedding with another child. Sleep bedding includes cots or floor mats. Floor mats must be at least one inch thick, and covered with an impermeable surface cleaned and sanitized or disinfected after each use. Bedding must be appropriate for the child's size. All sheets provided to the children must be laundered at least once each week and more often if soiled or dirty. Cots, when not in use, must be labeled and stored in a sanitary manner which prevents the spread of germs or lice from other linens. During naptime, lighting must be sufficient to visually observe and supervise children. 13 4. School Property, Materials and Activities The health and safety of the children in our care come first when selecting materials and activities for their use. The below policy must be followed accordingly: All materials used by children must be clean, in good condition, safe, and age appropriate. Any material that is considered dangerous or is not in good condition needs to be removed immediately from the child's reach and the removal of this item must be communicated to the Director. All materials that the children take to their mouth, once the child is done playing with it, must be removed and put in a special container. At the end of the day, teachers need to wash them with a bleach solution that will already be prepared. All activities performed with the children must be age appropriate. Shaking games: Shaking children is not an appropriate game to play with any child. The below policy pertains to company property and personal items: Any books, material or items purchased for, used in, or donated to, the school become the property of the company and will not be returned. Curriculum books and teacher resource materials and supplies are the property of the company and may not be removed from the school. The Company reserves the right to inspect your work station and cabinets, as well as any other belongings brought onto Company property. The company will not replace damaged, lost or stolen personal property. Employees are responsible for their personal belongings. 5. Front Desk All staff at the front desk must follow the below policy: If you are replacing someone at the front desk, do not let anyone you don't know in the school. When a parent calls the school with questions or concerns about a child and requests to speak with a teacher, the call cannot be transferred to the class. The teacher needs to come to the front desk to take the call only if proper coverage has been provided for the classroom. If no coverage can be provided, the teacher should wait to return the call once she is no longer responsible for the supervision of students. No calls can be transferred to the classrooms at any time. All phone calls to parents must be made from the front desk area unless authorized otherwise, with another staff member present during the call for your own protection. If someone requests a conference with the Director, or a staff member, you must call them and notify them of the request. Do not let anyone entering the school pass the double doors without permission. If you receive any call requesting information about the school programs or prices, you must transfer them to the Admissions' Department. No parent is allowed pass the double doors to drop off or pick up their children within the following hours: o After 9:00 a.m. o Before 12:40 p.m. (part time students) o Before 3:40 pm (full time students) Any time a parent arrives to pick up their child before regular pick-up hours, you must call the class teacher and the child will be taken to the reception area. 14 Any time a person not known to you arrives to pick up a child, you must ask for their name and request identification. Upon receiving the identification, you must then check the database to verify that the person is authorized to pick up the child from school. Bathrooms are not available for public use. The only people permitted to use them are staff members and The Learning World family members of students. Staff are not permitted to provide any The Learning World family with the personal information for another The Learning World family or staff member. All Visitors must: o Check in at the front desk o Sign the Visitor log o Provide their photo ID for school to photocopy o Provide Visitor badge or sticker 6. Cell phones, Computers, Personal Information, and Teachers with Children Cell Phones o The usage of cellular phones while at work is NOT PERMITTED. However, the staff can be reached through the TLWA main number. *No telephone calls or texting is allowed during working hours. o Procare attendance must be done on the Ipad NOT the cell phone. o Learning Genie reports must be done on the Ipad NOT the cell phone. Pictures for Learning Genie reports can be taken with a cell phone but must be sent or airdropped to the Ipad. 6.1 Computer Usage And Personal Information ○ Computers must be used for school work only. Faculty are not permitted to share personal information with parents or students including email addresses, phone numbers, Facebook contacts, or any other personal information. Technology Agreement Acceptable Use of Technology: It is the policy of The Learning World Academy to encourage technology use to facilitate communication and the exchange of ideas and information in pursuit of the school’s curricular, instructional, technological, and research goals. The Learning World Academy also supports the use of technology as a tool for the efficient and effective management of the school’s resources and affairs. The Learning World Academy’s computing, networking, and telecommunication resources are for the use of authorized school employees only. The Learning World Academy is not liable or responsible for any information that is lost, damaged, or unavailable due to technical or other difficulties; the accuracy or suitability of any information that is retrieved through technology; breaches of confidentiality; or defamatory material. 15 TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE I. Curriculum and Instruction Use of the school’s technology and telecommunication resources must (1) be consistent with the curriculum adopted by The Learning World Academy as well as the varied instructional needs, learning styles, abilities, and developmental levels of the students and (2) comply with the selection criteria for instructional materials and library–media online center materials selected by the administration. Staff members may, consistent with the school’s goals and guidelines, use the Internet and technology resources throughout the curriculum. Staff will provide developmentally appropriate guidance to students as they make use of telecommunications and electronic information resources to conduct research and other studies related to the The Learning World Academy curriculum. All students will be informed by staff of their rights and responsibilities as users of the school Google account prior to gaining access to that network, either as an individual user or as a member of a class or group. The Learning World Academy’s electronic and telecommunication resources are part of the curriculum, not a public forum for general use. II. Internet Safety Under no circumstance will staff use their Internet login to gain access to materials that are obscene, pornographic, harmful to children, or otherwise inappropriate or disruptive to the educational process. The use of filtering software does not negate or otherwise affect the obligations of users to abide by the terms of this policy and to refrain from accessing such materials. III. Acceptable Use The acceptable use policy governs the actions of users accessing network locations through The Learning World Academy; users must conduct themselves accordingly by exercising good judgment and complying with this policy and any accompanying administrative regulations and guidelines. Personnel who use or access The Learning World Academy’s technology and/or telecommunication resources must adhere to the following requirements and guidelines: 1. Use or access school technology primarily for educational and administrative purposes. 2. Understand that email, voicemail, and network files are not private. Network administrators and other school officials, as authorized by the principal, have access to all email messages and may review all computer files and communications to maintain system integrity and monitor responsible use. 16 3. Be responsible at all times for the proper use of their access privileges and avoid impersonations, anonymity, or unauthorized sharing of security measures. 4. Maintain the integrity of technological and telecommunication resources from potentially damaging messages, physical abuse, or viruses. 5. Respect the right of others to use equipment as needed and abide by the policies and procedures of networks and systems linked by technology. 6. Acknowledge and protect the privacy of other users and the integrity of the system by avoiding misuse of passwords, files, equipment, and programs. 7. Maintain the confidentiality of all personnel records and student records stored or accessible by means of Google Drive. Personnel who use or access The Learning World Academy’s technology must not 1. Use the school’s technology or resources for non-school purposes, personal financial gain, or as a means to gain access or attempt to access restricted websites or other information unrelated to the curriculum or educational purposes of the school. 2. Access, download, distribute, display, or create harmful, indecent, offensive, pornographic, or otherwise inappropriate messages, pictures, or materials. 3. Use telecommunication resources to access harmful, indecent, offensive, pornographic, or otherwise offensive sites or locations. 4. Engage in harassing, offensive, obscene, or defamatory speech. 5. Harass or attack others. 6. Loan technology to others or violate copyright laws or software licensing agreements. 7. Trespass in others’ folders, work, or files or gain unauthorized access to resources or entities. 8. Use the account or password of another user. 9. Misrepresent themselves or others. 10. Transmit email or other electronic materials anonymously. 17 11. Damage or vandalize computer equipment, systems, networks, hardware, software, data, or programs. 12. Knowingly spread computer viruses or use technology for any illegal purpose or activity. IV. No Expectation of Privacy The Learning World Academy’s electronic and telecommunication resources are part of the curriculum and are not a public forum for general use. Users should not expect that email, voicemail, or files stored or transmitted on the school’s servers will be private. The Learning World Academy, at its discretion, reserves the right to log technology use, to monitor Google Drive space utilization by users, to examine users’ files and materials, and to block and delete materials. There is no assurance of confidentiality with respect to access to transmissions or files by persons outside or inside the school. V. User Compliance Users of The Learning World Academy’s equipment, networks, and technology must comply with this policy and/or any administrative regulations and guidelines governing the use of technology and telecommunication resources. If any staff member does not follow any of the school’s guidelines for technology, this may result in disciplinary action by the administration, including, but not limited to, reprimand, loss of technology use privileges, suspension, notice to remedy, and dismissal. VI. Equipment Loss and Damage Procedure Equipment damages or equipment loss resulting from employee negligence is the responsibility of the employee. Examples of such negligence include, but are not limited to, mishandling or physically damaging equipment, moving or reconfiguring equipment, spilling liquids or other substances, using equipment for any purpose other than that for which it was designed, misplacing equipment (including chargers and cables), etc. Administration must be notified immediately when equipment is lost or damaged. Employees assume full responsibility for the security, handling, and use of The Learning World Academy-owned equipment assigned to them. Repair costs resulting from negligence or associated with equipment theft, loss, and/or misuse will be charged to the employee. If it is determined that damages resulted from negligence, the employee responsible for the damage will then be charged in full or part for repair costs. 6.2 Teachers Who Have Children When your child is ill, you should seek help from family members or others in order to avoid absences. 18 Teacher’s children should be in their classrooms by 8:00am, so that all teachers are available to start working promptly at 8:00am. 6.3 Private Education And Outside Assistance Parents/guardians may not request and/or employ full or part-time staff, administrative staff, or cleaning staff from our school to independently perform child education and care services outside of their paid scheduled work time or during regular working hours either on the school premises or at the parent/guardian's home. Administrative staff may not request and/or employ full or part-time staff from our school to perform administrative services for the school or other businesses while employed by The Learning World. Any of these situations will result in immediate termination. 6.4 Gifts Staff gifts over $100 dollars are not permitted and may not be accepted by the staff member. 7. New Staff Orientation 1. Getting to know one another: New teachers will participate in a meeting where they will have the opportunity to “get to know” the entire faculty. The members of the faculty may share about themselves if they wish and about their experience working at The Learning World. 2. Getting to know about the logistics of the school: New teachers will learn the logistical aspects of the school through the Director and this handbook. 3. Professional development: Teachers will have regular meetings and conversations with colleagues and administrators to specifically review aspects of the program. Ongoing professional development will also be provided throughout the school year. 8. School Calendar and Activities The Learning World Academy follows a combination of the Miami-Dade Public and Private School Systems Academic Calendar. Nevertheless, we reserve the right to change or add a teacher working day, at the beginning or end of the school academic year, spring breaks or any other festivity. Please check the school's calendar in advance in order to avoid personal conflicts. The Learning World Academy employees are required to attend all meetings and celebrations pertaining to school activities. If you are unable to attend one of these mandatory events, you may submit your request to be excused in writing to the Director. 9. Staff and Operating Policies School begins for all staff at 7:55 am. Please note that being on time is essential to maintain the logistics of the day. From 7:55 a.m. through 8:10 a.m., teachers are expected to review and prepare the day's schedules. Teachers are expected to participate in staff meetings once a week at 8:15 am. 19 During the scheduled teacher work (“planning”) days, all teachers are expected to update and maintain their classroom communication board. The working hours for these days will be the same as a regular working day. All staff members are required to be present without excuse for these work days. 10. Planning Time Every teacher has to plan weekly lessons. Teachers will be required to turn in their weekly lesson plans 7 days prior to the corresponding week. 11. Confidentiality Agreement All employees must sign the Employee Handbook Acknowledgment and Agreement Form. By doing so, you agree to the following: You will uphold the policies indicated in the Employee Handbook and will not discuss your salary, review, or any other sensitive information with another The Learning World employee. You will not discuss confidential information regarding families of The Learning World without the Director or Principal being involved. You understand that if you do not adhere to these policies against gossiping, discussing salaries and reviews, that you may be immediately terminated from The Learning World Academy. 12. Annual Evaluation The Director will perform an annual evaluation of each staff member. Several aspects of the employee's performance will be evaluated such as: Shows knowledge and understanding of children's ability and needs through the program Observes and records significant behavior of children as individuals and as a group Uses appropriate and positive discipline Interacts appropriately with children during activity time Is a good team player Shares appropriate information with staff Shares appropriate information with parents Shares appropriate information with administration Flexible in planning programs with children Maintains an organized room, storage cabinets & equipment Maintains records and files Participates in teachers’ meetings Uses good judgment in ordering materials for programs Participates in extra activities Uses clear communication 13. Dress Code During the School Year: Good judgment and a neat appearance are expected of all employees, regardless of where you work. Every individual contributes to the overall image of our company and, as such, good taste and a professional image are important when choosing your attire. 20 13.1 Uniforms Our uniforms consist of the following: School polo w/logo School button down white shirt w/ logo (formal wear) Khakis Charcoal slacks (formal wear) School cardigan or vest Closed-toed flat shoes in neutral/natural colors (beige, black, gray, brown, or white) Comfort shoes (preschool—please submit for approval) Accessories should show good judgment and a neat appearance. * Articles will be provided by the company, please note if your employment discontinued prior to the completion of one academic school year the price of each article of clothing will be deducted from the last paycheck. Additional Dress Code Guidelines Company-provided name tags should be worn when required (examples: for orientation, first week of school, field trips). Attire should be clean, neat (not wrinkled), modest and appropriate for the work environment. Undergarments are required. Employee's hairstyles should be clean, appropriate, and well-groomed for the work environment; facial hair should be neatly trimmed. Good personal hygiene is expected. Earrings and other jewelry should be worn in moderation and may not pose a safety hazard. Body piercing jewelry can be worn on the ear only. No other areas of the body should be visible with body piercing jewelry. Tattoos must be covered by clothing at all times. Fingernails should be a workable length and should not pose a safety hazard. It is recommended that fingernails be no longer than 4 mm beyond the fingertip. 13.2 Unacceptable Attire Unacceptable attire includes, but is not limited to: Tight, baggy, or short shorts/pants, including sweatpants, bicycle shorts, jogging suits, denim/jeans, cut-off pants, leggings, spandex, lycra, or short shorts/skirts Tight and revealing tops, including t-shirts; halter tops, tank tops, tube tops, low-cut tops, cutout shirts, tops with spaghetti straps, and tops that reveal the midriff Sundresses Open-toed shoes; sandals; flip-flops; and any other kind of shoes not mentioned above, including Crocs Other inappropriate articles of clothing to include hats/caps, transparent/revealing garments, stained/frayed/torn clothing, unauthorized badges/insignias/pins, or any attire that is not in compliance with policy stated in the handbook 14. Summer Camp Dress Code Summer Camp T-shirt with logo 21 Khakis long pants or shorts knee length Closed toed flat shoes or sneakers in solid colors (beige, black, grey or brown) 15. Policy of Reporting Information to Administration All parent inquiries are to be directed first to the Director, or Assistant Director. If so decided, you will proceed to inform the administration of any changes made. Any information given to administration should be in writing. You may inform the administration directly of any changes in telephone numbers or addresses given by the parents directly to you. In case of absence of the Principal or Director, you must inform the Assistant Director first. 16. The Learning World Employee Retention & Benefits Policy Full-Time Teachers The Learning World strives to minimize turnover among its employees. The school invests significant resources in training new teachers and turnover has a significant negative effect on the school. In order to maximize longevity among its staff, The Learning World has established a review process that enables each employee to provide formal feedback on every person they work with. We follow a combination of the Miami-Dade Public and Private School Systems Academic Calendar; therefore, the teacher knows in advance when they will be having a break allowing them to plan their family time in advance. Sick days: 5 sick days per school calendar year excused with a doctor’s note granted following completion of 30 days of employment. Seven weeks paid vacation (Spring, Winter Break, four weeks during Summer Session (working one Summer Session is required to receive the four weeks) Ongoing professional development is provided. Official holidays and recess days listed in our calendar are paid as regular working hours for all teachers without regard to the length of employment. However, if an employee is absent the day before or the day after a paid holiday and/or recess day, that holiday and/or recess day, will not be treated as a paid holiday/recess day and will be deducted from the employee's next paycheck. The staff will be offered health insurance packages. The Learning World will contribute 50% of the premium for full-time employees. The other 50% will be withheld from the employee's paycheck. The amount withheld is pre-tax. Although The Learning World will not contribute 50% of the employee's premium for part-time employees, they may choose to participate in the group benefit plan by paying 100% of the insurance premium. Free registration is offered for employee’s children. First year employee’s children receive a 50% tuition discount. Second year employee’s children receive a 75% tuition discount. Employees with 2 or more children: 50% tuition discount for the first child and 75% for all other children. *For all other positions, benefits may differ therefore please refer to your contract for further details. 17. Vacation and Attendance Policies 17.1 Sick Days: 22 Employees are entitled to five sick days off with pay per school year, which cannot be accumulated or taken as a vacation day; therefore, no more than two consecutive days off will be considered sick days. A doctor’s note is required in order to be paid for a sick day. All paid sick days will be determined at the sole discretion of the director. 17.2 Tardiness: Each employee will be forgiven for two unexcused tardies. Upon the third unexcused tardy, the employee will receive a one-day unpaid suspension. Excused tardies will be determined at the sole discretion of the Principal or Director. Employees are expected to inform the Principal or Director when they anticipate being late so coverage can be provided if necessary. 17.3 Early Leave: Teachers who need to leave early are expected to notify the Director in advance if possible. The Learning World reserves the right to discount an employee pay for the hours not worked due to leaving early. Vacation or leave benefits are to be used during the employment period. Vacation and sick days not taken will NOT be paid out upon termination of employment since both are a benefit and not mandated by law. Maternity leave, family leave, military leave or any other kind of leave may be taken for up to 12 weeks without pay. 17.4 Notice Of Absence Or Tardiness If you must be absent or tardy due to illness or a compelling personal reason, you must report your absence or tardiness as far in advance as possible, but in all cases prior to the scheduled start of your shift (at a minimum of two hours prior to their shift starting). In addition, you must speak directly to the school Principal or Director to report an absence or tardiness. Leaving voicemail messages, text messaging, or contacting other employees other than your Director or Supervisor in charge (if your Director is not available), is unacceptable. 17.5 Pattern Absence And Tardiness Pattern absence and tardiness is defined as occurrences where an employee is consistently absent or tardy on the same day of the week, month, shift, critical business period, special event days, etc. In addition, pattern tardiness is also defined as when an employee is late to arrive/return from work within five minutes of their start time on a regular basis. Because of the negative impact on our customers, pattern absence and tardiness are not acceptable and may result in corrective action up to and including separation from employment. 17.6 No Call/No Show Due to licensing regulations and the importance of providing superior service to our customers, it is critical that employees be at work when scheduled. Failure to call and not show up for your scheduled shift is defined as "No Call/No Show." As a result of not calling in or showing up for your scheduled shift, you will be placed on corrective action for the first occurrence and separated from employment on the second occurrence. 23 17.7 Job Abandonment It is considered job abandonment: if you are absent without notice (no call/no show) for two (2) consecutive scheduled days, if you leave your work station prior to the end of your scheduled shift without prior approval from your Director, or if you fail to return to work from a break or meal period. This policy also is in effect for any employee who is returning from a leave of absence. Employees who abandon their jobs will be separated from employment and the Company will process the separation as a voluntary resignation. 17.8 Jury Duty If an employee is chosen for jury duty, copies of the jury duty must be submitted to the Director at least one week prior to jury duty. The employee will be paid for the time off less the jury duty compensation. The employee must return to work with the necessary paperwork indicating that the session was completed and the employee is eligible to return to work. The employee must return to work the next working day after the duty has been served. 17.9 Paydays Paydays will be on the 2nd and 16th day each month when these days fall on a working weekday. If paydays fall on weekends or holidays, the following apply: Saturday: payday will be the prior Friday. Sunday: payday will be the following Monday. Holiday: payday will be the first working day after the holiday. 18. Student Portfolios Teachers are responsible for completing and maintaining a file on each student, which includes but is not limited to: assessments, anecdotes, and sample work. 19. Child Abuse "Child Abuse is defined as including any not accidental or sexual exploitation or injury to the intellectual capacity of a person by the parents or other persons responsible for the child's welfare.” If a staff member suspects a child of being abused or neglected, they must immediately report it to the Principal or Director. They, in turn, will inform the proper authorities. If a staff member is accused of child abuse in any way, the staff member will be removed from the school until an investigation has been completed. If the investigation is prolonged more than three working days, the employee may take a leave without pay until the investigation is completed. If the employee has been found guilty of abuse, they will immediately be terminated. 20. Reporting Child Abuse and Neglect Under the child protective service act, mandated reporters are required to report any suspicion of abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities. All staff members at our schools are considered mandated reporters under this law. You, as a staff member, are not required to discuss your suspicions with parents prior to reporting the matter to the appropriate authorities nor are you required to investigate the cause of any marks you 24 believe are suspicious. Mandated reporters can be held criminally responsible if they fail to report suspected abuse or neglect. We, at The Learning World , take this responsibility very seriously and will make all warranted reports to the appropriate authorities. The Child Protective Act is designed to protect the welfare and best interest of children. As mandated reporters, you cannot be held liable for reports made to child protective services which are determined to be unfounded, provided the report was made in "good faith". Causes for reporting suspected child abuse or neglect include, but are not limited to: Unusual bruising, marks, or cuts on the child's body Severe verbal reprimand Transporting the child without appropriate child restraints (car seats, seatbelts, etc.) Dropping off or picking up a child while under the influence of illegal drugs and alcohol Leaving a child unattended for any amount of time Failure to attend to the special needs of a disabled child Sending a child to school over-medicated to hide symptoms which would typically require the child to be kept at home until symptoms subside Children who exhibit behavior consistent with an abusive situation 21. Field Trips The Learning World may organize some field trips during the course of the school year and summer sessions. We will notify you in advance of a planned trip. (This applies to Pre-K 4 only) 22. Field Trip and Transportation Procedures Field trips are an important way to enrich children's learning experiences and a fun opportunity for parents/guardians to participate in The Learning World Academy' activities. We consider field trips to be an extension of classroom activities and such they are planned accordingly. Parents/guardians are invited to join and often assist during these fun and educational adventures. Parents/guardians need to fill out an individual permission form for each field trip the child will attend. If a child does not participate in the field trip, The Learning World will make special arrangements to receive the child in the school during that activity. If a child arrives at the school after the class has departed for the field trip, the parent/guardian may either sign the child in for the day and then drive the child to the site of the field trip and sign an additional sign-in form. Alternatively, the parent/guardian may leave the child at the school or take the child home. Parents will not be permitted to transport any child other than their own to a The Learning World sponsored field trip. If parents would like to pick up their children while they are on a field trip, they must sign a pickup form in the field trip location. Transportation to field trips must follow certain guidelines. Therefore, when arranging for a field trip the following steps must be followed: Arrange the details of the field trip with the Director. Be prepared to conduct safe and interesting field trips with detailed procedures for the transition to and from The Learning World Academy utilizing a bus or van. Staff will be trained in establishing specific guidelines for seat belt usage, communicating with the driver, modeling 25 appropriate behavior, etc., in order to assure maximum safety and the security of the children. Notify the Principal or Director of the plan for the field trip no later than one week prior to the event. This enables the school to make the necessary transportation arrangements for the event well in advance as well as prepare the proper forms. Parents/guardians must be notified in advance of each field trip at least five working days prior. Written parental permission must be obtained in the form of a general permission slip that will be provided to you by the Principal or Director. During field trips, in addition to the number of staff required to meet the staff-to-child ratio, for the purpose of safety, one additional adult must be present on all field trips away from the child care facility to assist in providing direct supervision. The staff attending the field trip must bring the contact information for all children being transported. A telephone or other means of instant communication shall be available to staff responsible for children during all field trips. Cellular phones, two-way radio devices, citizen band radios, and other means of instant communication are acceptable. At least one The Learning World staff member satisfying these training requirements shall be present during the field trip and during all transportation activities. A first aid kit must also accompany child care staff when children are participating on field trips. Each kit shall be in a closed container and labeled "First Aid." The kits shall be accessible to the child care staff at all times, and kept out of the reach of children. Each kit must, at a minimum, include: 1. Soap 2. Band-Aids or equivalent 3. Disposable non-porous gloves 4. Cotton balls or applicators 5. Sterile gauze pads and rolls 6. Adhesive tape 7. Thermometer and covers 8. Tweezers 9. Pre-moistened wipes 10. Scissors 11. A current resource guide on first aid and CPR When transporting children with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or seizures), their emergency care plans and supplies or medication shall be available. All The Learning World staff members attending a field trip shall be trained to recognize and respond appropriately to an emergency situation. Prior to transporting children and upon the vehicle arrival at its destination, the driver must: o Update the driver’s log, which must be maintained for all children being transported in the vehicle. The log shall be retained for a minimum of four months. The log shall include each child's name, date, time of departure, time of arrival, signature of driver, and signature of a second staff member to verify the driver's log and that all children have left the vehicle. o Upon arrival at the destination, the driver of the vehicle shall: ▪ Mark each child off the log as the children depart the vehicle. ▪ Conduct a physical inspection and visual sweep of the vehicle to ensure that no child is left in the vehicle. ▪ Sign, date, and record the driver's log immediately, verifying that all children were accounted for, and that the visual sweep was conducted. Upon arrival at the destination, a The Learning World staff member shall: 26 ▪ Conduct a physical inspection and visual sweep of the vehicle to ensure that no child is left in the vehicle. ▪ Sign, date, and record the driver's log immediately, verifying that all children were accounted for and that the log is complete. Upon return to The Learning World , teachers must submit all field trip forms and attendance sheet logs to the Director. 23. Chronic Disruptive Behavior We will make every effort to work with the parents of children having difficulties in school. Children displaying chronic disruptive behavior, which has been determined to be upsetting to the physical or emotional well-being of another child, may require the following actions: Initial Consultation: The Director may require the parents/guardians of any child who attends The Learning World to meet for a conference. The problem will be defined on paper. Goals and a plan of action will be established and the parent will be involved in creating approaches towards solving the problem. Second Consultation: if the initial plan for helping the child fails, the parents/guardians will again be required to meet with the Director. Another attempt will be made to identify the problem, outline new approaches to the problem, and discuss the consequences if progress is not apparent. Suspension: when the previous attempts fail and there is no progress towards solving the problem, the child may be suspended from The Learning World indefinitely. The Principal or Director may immediately suspend a child at any time he/she exhibits a behavior which is harmful to him/her or others. A parent/guardian may be called to the school anytime the child exhibits uncontrollable behavior that cannot be modified by the staff. That parent may be asked to take the child home immediately. Suspensions from the The Learning World program may vary from a few hours to an indefinite period. 24. Discharge Policy The Learning World reserves the right to cancel the enrollment of a child for the following reasons: The health and safety of the child or the other children cannot be assured by the school. The child's developmental needs are not being met at The Learning World Academy. When our school is not meeting the child’s developmental needs, a parent/guardian meeting will be held (either in person or by telephone). The Director will provide to the parent/guardian a written statement, including the reason for termination of care, referral for additional services, a brief summary of The Learning World School's observation(s) related to the referral, and any efforts The Learning World may have made to accommodate the child's needs. Inappropriate or disruptive behavior has continually occurred without resolution. Non-payment or excessive late payments of tuition and fees have occurred. Parents/Guardians have been chronically late in picking up their child at the end of the day. Parents/Guardians have failed to attend parent–staff meetings or conferences to address concerns about their child or have failed to cooperate by seeking outside services as requested by the school to meet their child’s needs. 27 Parents/Guardians exhibit inappropriate behavior(s), which includes, but is not limited to, inappropriate language; intoxication; theft or destruction of school property; verbal or physical threats of harm; harassment of a staff member, child, or other parents/guardians/visitors to the school; etc. Parents have failed to participate when required or comply with the school's policies and procedures. Parents/Guardians fail to provide the required health, immunization, and/or emergency information. Numbers on the emergency card are outdated, incomplete, or incorrect, resulting in the inability to reach anyone within an hour of trying for the third time in a calendar year. Parents/Guardians fail to pick up an injured or ill child within an hour of being notified for the third time in a calendar year. Our school will send a written notice to the parent/guardian immediately following the occurrence of any of these events. 25. Emergency Procedures When an emergency or natural disaster occurs, you will need to act quickly to prevent or manage injuries, property damage and more. If you find yourself in an emergency situation such as an approaching wildfire, hurricane or tornado it is important that you know how to react and what actions need to be taken in order to ensure your safety and the safety of the children in your care. To ensure health and safety of the children, a staff member who is qualified to respond to life-threatening emergencies must be in attendance at all times, trained in pediatric first aid and CPR. This staff member can recognize and respond to many types of emergency medical situations. At the same time, keeping children informed and aware of emergency situations and procedures will help them remain calm during an actual emergency. Talking with children about various emergencies helps prepare them to be a part of the procedure, whether it is a shelter-in-place, evacuation, or lockdown procedure. Ensuring that children understand what they are supposed to do and how they are supposed to behave will help to prevent panic and fear. You, as a staff member, must remain calm and reassure the children by explaining what is happening. You will try to comfort the children and redirect their attention to a game or quiet activity if possible. In some emergency situations, it may be necessary for staff to take children to an alternate shelter until families arrive. An emergency supply of food, water, clothing, blankets, diapers, and flashlights is kept on hand should this situation arise. Each disaster or emergency has its own specifically designed emergency plan and is posted in all classrooms. The three main types of emergency response procedures are: 25.1 Evacuation: An evacuation procedure involves getting everyone in the building to a safe location somewhere outside the building until the threat is over or until help arrives. 28 In case of fire, staff members and children will get at least 50 feet away from the building. A head count will be taken to make sure everyone is safely out of the building. After everyone has been evacuated, the fire or police department will be notified. If the children cannot return to the school, a suitable shelter will be made available where they can safely remain until their parents/guardians arrive. Fire drills will occur monthly (no more than 30 days apart). These drills teach children what to do in the event of real fire. Staff will direct the children to the proper exits in order to ensure safety for everyone. If a fire drill is in progress at the same time a child is being dropped off, parents/guardians must remain with their child until the drill is complete. Once it is complete, parents/guardians and their child may enter the building and resume the routine drop-off procedure. 25.2 Lockdown: A lockdown procedure is when you are creating a safe place for everyone to wait inside until an external threat has passed. During a lockdown procedure everyone is instructed to remain in the designated safe place identified in the Emergency Plan until advised that the threat has passed. This procedure is used during situations when someone outside of the child care program poses a threat, such as a hostile or armed individual. 25.3 Shelter-in-Place: The shelter-in-place procedure involves creating a safe and secure location for staff and children until a threat has passed. It might mean closing windows and turning off the heat and air conditioning to prevent harmful chemicals from coming inside during a chemical spill. Overall, it means creating a place where everyone will be safe until the threat is over or until help arrives. Shelter-in-place procedures must be implemented due to: o Extreme weather: in the event of a tornado, staff will move children from all windows and doors and place them in a secure location o Chemical spills An Emergency Preparedness Plan is the written documentation of what you will do before, during, and after each type of emergency. Each emergency situation requires a specific response that dictates the appropriate action of each staff member. An emergency preparedness plan has been included in this handbook and must be followed by all staff members if and when a situation arises. These plans are as follows: o Preparedness Plan for Evacuation o Preparedness Plan for Lockdown o Preparedness Plan for Shelter-in-Place during extreme weather conditions o Preparedness Plan for Shelter-in-Place during a chemical spill The school Director will inform you and train you about the procedures to follow in order to implement these plans during an emergency situation. 25.4 Protocol for Death of a Student or Staff Member in School Immediate Responsibilities: 29 1) Call 911 and contact administration 2) Notify family School will email parents and staff at the end of the day to notify them of the incident. Keep routines as normal as possible and try to balance sensitivity and school business. Do not share any information or rumors you may have heard with students, parents, or staff. Students who need support may be sent to the guidance counselor. The guidance counselor will visit each classroom to see how staff and students are doing. 26. Unexpected School Closings If The Learning World Academy must close for any reason, all parents or guardians will be notified immediately to pick up their child. In every instance, we will attempt to provide as much advance notice as possible. 26.1 Hurricanes and Tropical Storms The Learning World Academy will follow Miami-Dade County Public Schools hurricanes and tropical storms emergency plan. Parents and staff should follow the news to keep themselves informed about the storms. They may also check our website for updates regarding these conditions. Should The Learning World Academy be required to close due to a natural disaster such as a hurricane, parents/guardians will be notified immediately of the school's closing and asked to pick up their child. The update will also be posted on our website. 27. Lost or Missing Child In the event that a child is lost or missing, The Learning World Academy' Principal or Director will be notified immediately. An initial search will be performed of the facility (including closets, cabinets, etc.) and the immediate surroundings as well as rapid attempts to confirm whether or not a family member has picked up the child. If the child is still not found, the school will: o Immediately notify the child's parents/guardians. o Immediately notify police and security. o Continue searching while waiting for the police to arrive. o The Principal or Director will be the point person at The Learning World Academy, gathering information and a description of the children to share with authorities. 28. Parents/guardians Right to Access: Custody Battles The Learning World honors any court orders. However, if both parents share full custody, the names of ALL persons allowed to pick up their child must be in writing by both parties. No last-minute telephone calls will be accepted due to the sensitivity of the matter. The Learning World is not responsible for, nor will we interfere in, any disagreements between both parents. In a case where the child is the subject of a court order (e.g. custody order, restraining order, or protection from abuse order) The Learning World Academy must be provided with a certified copy of the most recent order and all amendments thereto. The orders of the court will be strictly followed. 30 In the absence of a court order on file with the school, both parents shall be afforded equal access to their child as long as both of their names are listed on the child's application form. Without a court order, The Learning World Academy cannot limit access of a parent by request of the other parent, regardless of the reason. If a situation presents itself in which one of the parents does not want the other parent to have access to their child, we suggest that the parent keeps the child with them until a court order is issued, since our right to retain your child is secondary to the other parent's right to access. The school will contact the local police should a conflict arise. 29. Parent Referrals If you need to make a referral, you must first contact the Director to discuss the issue and your suggestions. Then, a parent-teacher conference must be held to inform them about the child's behavior that you have observed and recorded. In accordance with each situation, we will consider the best option according to a list of references we have. 29. 1 Transferring Students/Release of Records Procedures for students transferring to other schools/programs 1. Family must be in good financial standing 2. Parents submit release of records authorization/form to the school of interest 3. Recommendation forms are sent directly from the new school to The Learning World 4. Teachers will complete subject area recommendation forms 5. Admin will complete the Principal/Counselor recommendation form 6. The Learning World will send the completed form directly to the school requesting the information 7. Necessary documentation will be sent along with requested forms 8. Administrators and/or teachers will not write recommendation letters unless the student is applying for has a specific mandatory requirement 30. Sickness Policy The Learning World operates under Florida State Child Care Licensing Regulations, which does not allow actively sick children to be in the classroom. Please ensure that all children are properly dressed according to weather conditions. If it is cold, all children must be dressed properly for the weather before going outside. During the activities that can soil or wet the uniforms, place aprons on the children. It is the parent/guardian's responsibility to notify teachers of any condition or restriction affecting a child. 30.1 Sick Children Young children attending a school facility tend to experience a frequent level of illness (runny nose, cold and flu symptoms, upper respiratory tract infection, diarrhea, asthma, hepatitis A infections, etc.) that may not allow them to participate in the school's activities. State regulations now require that a child with these conditions be excluded from school. If there is a suspicion that a child is suffering from a communicable illness or the child develops symptoms related to an illness, he or she will be removed from the classroom, and the parent/guardian must be contacted and asked to remove the child from school. Parents must be contacted and they will be required to pick up their child within one hour of being 31 contacted. If parents cannot be reached, the person designated as the Emergency Contact will be notified and requested to pick up the child within one hour. 30.2 Temporary Exclusion Policy Children who have exhibited any symptoms of infectious illnesses within the preceding 24-hour period are likely to be contagious and should remain at home. The Learning World Academy will ask that a healthcare provider be consulted regarding the child’s illness, and that information be shared with The Learning World Academy' staff. The child cannot return to school until he/she is no longer contagious and a doctor indicates this in writing. However, The Learning World reserves the right to determine whether a child should remain at the school when illness is a consideration. Also, please be advised that any child who has been absent from school due to an illness for 2 days or more, will not be allowed to return to school without a doctor's notice. Children with acute non- infectious illnesses may only be brought to The Learning World if fever is not present and they are able to participate in activities. In the event that a child shows any symptoms, which are due to chronic, non-infectious conditions, a letter from the doctor stating the expected symptoms, the cause of the symptoms and expected duration of the condition must be provided to The Learning World immediately. Failure to provide such documentation by parents may result in turning away a child until such documentation is provided. 30.2.1 When Will We Send a Child Home? The Learning World operates under Florida State Child Care Licensing Regulations, which do not allow actively sick children to be in classrooms. Therefore, children will be sent home in the following situations: o The illness prevents the child from participating comfortably in activities. o The illness results in greater care for the child than our staff can provide. o The illness is contagious for other children. o When any of the common illnesses listed below is present. Illness Symptoms When Child Can Return Our Care Cold/Flu Cough, stuffy, runny nose, With a Dr.’s notice that the sneezing, chest congestion, condition is non-contagious abnormal ear wax or when symptoms disappear. Chickenpox Unexplained rash 10 days after rash started and when all the blisters are dry and scabbed over Diarrhea or blood in stools 3 or more loose stools in a 24 hours free of loose stool not explained by dietary 24-hour period change or medication 32 Fever Temperature of 100 degrees 24 hours without a fever F (37.4 C) or higher and without medications, or healthcare provider note stating it is not contagious Fever with rash and Unexplained rash with fever 24 hours without a fever behavior change and irritability, persistent and without medications, or crying, lethargy or other healthcare provider note unusual behavior stating it is not contagious Head Lice Lice and nits on the scalp 24 hours after the treatment starts and no signs of lice are present Hepatitis A Yellow skin or eyes One week after the illness or yellow color starts Herpes Simplex Cold sores or fever blisters When the sores have disappeared, and been treated with medication Impetigo and ringworm Unexplained rash If the rash can be covered with bandages and treatment has started, then the child can return. If the rash cannot be covered, the child may return to school 48 hours after treatment starts. Measles Unexplained rash 6 days after the rash appears Mouth sores with drooling Inability of the child to When sores are dry or control his/her saliva, and crushed or healthcare mouth sore that bandage provider determines the cannot cover child is noninfectious Mumps Unexplained rash 9 days after the swelling/ rash appears Pink Eye Pink, red, itchy eyes, or Once treatment has been discharge coming from the finished and symptoms are eyes gone Pertussis (whooping cough) Uncontrollable, violent 5 days after the child has coughing, sometimes with a started taking antibiotics deep “whooping” sound and hard time breathing Rubella Fever, rash, and swollen, 11 days after the rash tender lymph nodes, usually appears in the back of the neck behind the ears 33 Shingles Unexplained rash that turns When sores have been into blisters or sores crusted and the scabs fall off Strep Throat Sore throat accompanied 24 hours after the with a fever treatment has begun or if the child has been without a fever for 24 hrs. Tuberculosis Cough, chest pain, Until healthcare provider or breathlessness, night healthcare official states sweats, and signs of that the child is on pneumonia appropriate therapy or medication and can attend school Vomiting Illness Vomiting 2 or more times Episode free for 24 hours. within 24 hours without taking any medication or until healthcare provider states that the child is not contagious and not in danger of dehydration 30.3 Notification of Infectious Diseases and Injuries Parents/guardians must be notified if their child has been exposed to a communicable disease or condition such as meningitis, measles, chickenpox, tuberculosis, pertussis, head lice, scabies, ringworm, diarrhea, hepatitis A, among others. Early identification and treatment of infectious diseases is critical in minimizing the effects of the associated illness and its transmission. Parents/guardians should consult their child's healthcare provider to discuss the implications of the exposure and determine the best form of treatment. Also, parents/guardians are required by state laws and The Learning World policies to inform school staff within 24 hours (exclusive of weekend/holidays) when their child has been diagnosed as having any contagious disease so that other parents may be notified of the exposure. When potentially contagious illness occurs, notes will be sent home to parents of children who may have been exposed. The Learning World Academy will notify the parents/guardians of exposed children on the same day or within 24 hours by: o Posting information on the parent/guardian boards. o Giving written notice of the communicable disease. Parents are also responsible for informing the school in writing about any physical restrictions or injuries that restrict the child from participating in any given activity. When a child is out due to an infectious disease, injury, or a surgical procedure, it is important to remind parents to request a written notification from the pediatrician in charge of the illness or injury treatment/surgery that addresses the child's release to participate in the regular activities at The Learning World Academy as well as any restriction and special indication. 34 No child will be allowed to return to school after being diagnosed with and absent from school due to an infectious disease or injury without this document. We understand that it is difficult to find alternate childcare when children are ill, but we need cooperation in this matter in order to keep a child and his/her classmates as healthy as possible. 31. Medication Teachers need to be made completely aware of what medication a child is receiving, who prescribed the medication, and what side effects it could possibly have on the child. This policy is especially important if a child is taking medication over a long period of time or if medications are frequently prescribed. The Learning World will not administer any medication to any child under any circumstance. If a child needs to be administered any medication during school hours, parents/guardians may come and do so themselves. Only the Director with a form signed by the parents can authorize exceptions to this rule. No medication of any kind (prescription or non-prescription) can be stored in any classroom at any time. All prescription shots (usually prescribed to children with allergies) must be kept in the first aid kit at the front desk along with the authorization form signed by the parents. The Director must be notified and must approve this procedure. In order to clean an injury, use only soap and water. Applying any type of medication on a child's injury or wound is not permitted. 32. Allergies, Snack, and Lunch at The Learning World Parents should notify the school in writing about any allergy detected in the child and bring a doctor's notice. The Learning World is a nut-free school. No child or teacher is allowed to bring any type of nut or food containing nuts to school. SINCE The Learning World IS A NUT-FREE SCHOOL, PLEASE DO NOT BRING ANY ITEMS THAT MAY CONTAIN NUTS, AND IF YOU SEE ANY IN ANY CHILD'S LUNCH BOX, PLEASE DISCARD IMMEDIATELY OUTSIDE OF CHILDREN'S REACH AND INFORM THE PARENT ABOUT THIS RULE. This

The Learning World Academy Employee Handbook 2024-2025 PDF

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