Parent Handbook

Nondiscriminatory Student Policy

McKenzie Montessori Institute Incorporated (MCKMI) admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship, loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs. This Institute is an equal opportunity provider.

Welcome!

We look forward to getting to know you and your student(s). This handbook will help familiarize you with MCKMI. We understand that there are exceptions to rules. However, for the benefit and consistency of our program we request that you and your student honor the policies and guidelines.

Our Mission

Mckenzie Montessori’s mission is for all students to reach their full potential independently and collaborative as they become a part of a community. Developing social skills, and a since of belonging and self-worth through contributions and education that nurtures the child’s spirit and intellect. Based on Maria Montessori’s Philosophy and a kinesthetic approach to education that addresses the whole child from all angels. With a hands-on learning approach, the needs of the student are met. Social/emotionally, physical, and academic. The environment is carefully prepared every morning so that each student entering is set up for their individual success.

Hours of Operation

Our school is open between the hours of 7:30 – 5:30 Monday through Friday. Our educational main program is between the hours of 8:00-5:00. 7:30-8:00 and/or 5:00-5:30 have limited space and must be preauthorized. All students must be dropped off by 9:00am daily as class starts at 9:00am. PLEASE be here before 9am, tardiness is not acceptable.

We understand, on rare occasions students will need to remain for longer periods of time or have early appointments and require a later than 9am drop off. Notify the office prior to be excused from any additional fees and intake arrangement can be made however, for the benefit of the child, no child will be allowed to remain at the school more than 10 hours a day on a regular basis unless arrangements have been made.

Academic Programs

Class begins at 9:00. Please have your student to school at least 15 minutes before school starts.

It is very important to be on time, when students miss the beginning of the day, it takes a while for them to settle into the routine as well as missing important group learning opportunities affecting the student academically and emotionally.

All students must be escorted to the double glass doors where they will be greeted by our intake staff. Parents must remain with their student until their child is accepted by a MCKMI staff member. Daily class schedules are available upon request and are posted in each classroom.

Attendance

Regular attendance is important to your student’s progress. Most working adults work five days per week (or more) without the liberty of staying home because they want to or they don’t feel like going. Attending school is your student’s job. Please refrain from making school an option, especially if they are not ill or are not on a scheduled vacation. Text the school any hour to leave a message for any schedule changes. (541) 228-5352.

Drop Off

Begins at 8:00 am (Early approved starts at 7:30am) Ends at 9:00am (9:01am and after will have a late drop charge)

Wait at the double glass doors and an intake staff member will greet you and complete a temperature/health check.

Preschool Promise: Wait at front building wooden door.

Pickup

Begins at 2:30pm, Ends at 5:00pm. (5:01pm or later will incur a late charge) (Late drop ends at 5:30pm. 5:31pm and after incurs a late charge)

Wait at the double glass doors and your student will be brought out to you. If you have waited for longer than 5 minutes and no one has acknowledged you, please call the school (541)228-5352.

Preschool Promise: Begins at 2:30, Ends at 3:30 Children left after 3:30 will incur late fee. Afterschool students will transfer to the main building at 3:30.

Parking lot Safety Concerns and Policy

• Children that do not listen to their parent and run from their parent, MUST hold their parent’s hand to the door.
• Children may NOT play on or around the ramp, steps, front grassy area, trash area, and/or may NOT climb in the trees and fences.
• Children may NOT walk to the back parking lot area.
• These are extreme safety issues and must be followed for the safety of your child.

Extended Hours

Early drop off 7:30am-8:00am and late pick up 5:00pm-5:30pm have limited availability and must be preauthorized.

Pick up Authorizations

Only those individuals listed on the application as authorized individuals may pick up your student. If someone needs to pick up your student and they are not on the authorization list, you will need to notify the school, by calling, and/or providing a written note with the update. Note: Unless there is a court order on file, students can be released to either parent written on the enrollment form.

Visitors in our school

For the safety and security of our students and staff, anyone visiting MCKMI during hours of operations must follow our visitors’ procedures.

Visitor Procedures

• For the consistency of our program and for your student’s routine if you would like to visit the school, an appointment in advance is required allowing teachers to find coverage for their class.
• Upon arrival visitors should call the office (541) 228-5352. An intake staff member will meet you and perform intake protocol. After entering the premises visitors, Temperature check, and wash their hands.
• Upon signing “In”, visitors will be given a visitors’ badge, which must be displayed at all times; and signed into the visitors’ log.
• Visitors must be escorted at all times around the premises.
• Upon departure, visitors must sign out and return their visitors’ badge.

Individual Safety and Security

MCKMI reserves the right to deny anyone entry to the school if there is reason to believe the individual’s presence could be detrimental to the school or the student. If needed the police will be notified of an individual’s “not welcomed” presence on the property.

Calling and texting the school

The school phone number is (541)-228-5352. You may text the school anytime. Calls are returned the next business day.

Our Website, Facebook and Remind

We are enhancing the website all the time with new photos and information. It is our vision to have the school calendar and printable forms available from your home computer. Please visit often and feel free to give any suggestions to make this more useful to your family. Our web address is www.mckmi.com.

If you are member of Facebook, please join our McKenzie Montessori’s Parent Page for parents only for the latest news and photos. Only Parents can view the photos and information for security purposes.

Remind is a communication platform that helps parents communicate with student’s teachers. You will receive a link that will take you to download the app. Next you will set up your account using the class code that is given.

Tuition

McKenzie Montessori Institute is a Non-Profit Organization.

The tuition rate is set rate for the academic year (September through August).

Credit is not given due to absence, illness, or holidays as you are paying for that spot.

All monthly payments are due on or before the 5th of each month unless other prior approval arrangements have been made.

Contracted discounts must be paid on or before the 1st of each month for the discount to apply.

A $25 late fee will be applied to all late payments after the 10th Should the tuition not be paid by the 10th and no arrangements have been made, the student may not return until tuition is paid in full each month.

Checks, cash or money orders are accepted. Accounts that have checks or bank transfer returned for non-sufficient funds will be charged a $40 non-refundable fee.

Late Fees and After-Hours Charges

Children are expected to be at the intake area (front doors) and picked up at their scheduled time. In the absence of an approved schedule change or after closing, a late fee of $25 will be applied with an additional $10 for every 5 minutes after the first 10 minutes. This fee is per student. If you are delayed for any reason, text the school as soon as possible. We will then let your child know when to expect you. This also prevents us from having to make phone calls to locate you or arrange for an alternate pick-up person. A late drop off fee of $10 applied when dropped off at 9:01am or after. This fee is to encourage parents and students to be on time (prior to 9) as class starts at 9:00am.

Non-Academic Days

The yellow marked days on the calendar are our “Non-Academic days” These days usually coincide with public-school, non-school days and are considered to be “Daycare” as the lead teachers are not usually in attendance. These are perfect days to plan a special day with your student.

Yearly Enrollment Fee

There is an annual non-refundable $150 enrollment fee. This must be paid with application. For new enrolling students, this fee holds the placement/spot. The monies are used to offset costs to repair and purchase new materials as well as yearly classroom supplies. There may be times during the year in which parents may be asked to pay for a special opportunity or project. Classroom materials are constructed well and are meant to be used. As normal wear & tear occurs, your fee goes towards replacement of them. However, students purposefully harming or destroying any classroom material(s) will be expected to replace the item(s). We suggest if your student needs to replace an item, that they use their personal money. If they do not have their own money, they should work a little each day until enough money has been earned to pay for the item. *Note*: Be always on the alert for small objects coming home in pockets. Little square numbers, a little pink cube, a green or red bead, etc…. Each one has its own h

Withdrawal

A 30-day written notice is required to withdraw. Any unpaid tuition must be paid prior to the student’s last day. Any paid tuition cannot be refunded as all monies received are used for the purpose of the program.

Withdrawal due to conflict/issues

McKenzie Montessori Institute will make every effort to resolve any issues that the parent(s) may have. Should a desirable outcome not be obtained, the parent may withdraw their student. Any paid tuition cannot be refunded as all monies received are used for the purpose of the program.

School Records

All requested forms must be completely filled out.

School Calendar

For actual dates, see attachment. We reserve the right to close additional days per year. Note: Should we exercise this option; the school will provide proper prior notice. Be sure to read school newsletters and/or notices sent out. These closures have been figured into the tuition rates and there will be no adjustment in tuition for the months in which they fall. There will be no discount in tuition should we close due to weather.

Snow Days

We follow the Springfield School District decisions to close for inclement weather. We do not normally report our closure to radio or television stations. If the Springfield School District is closed or delayed due to inclement weather and/or hazardous conditions, we will be as well. This means that if the School District is on a two-hour delay and they normally open at 8:20, the delay means they open at 10:20. McKenzie Montessori Institute will also open at 10:20. Information regarding school closures can be found on local news channels, radio station KLCC and on the web at valleyinfo.net. NOTE: If public schools are closed at the time (for example – over winter break), we will post on Facebook parent page.

Privacy and Personal Responsibility

As students gain greater awareness of themselves and others around them, they begin to understand that males and females are different. While it is perfectly normal for young students to be curious about these differences; family members, teachers and friends must be careful to monitor behaviors without embarrassing or punishing the child. Our environment is one of respect for self and others. This sets the stage for protecting one’s privacy and not touching others without permission. However, these are young students, and they sometimes forget. We make it a practice of speaking to the students periodically about these issues. For example: We explain that using the restroom is a private time and that only one child should be in the bathroom at a time. We talk about the private areas that our bathing suits cover, and the privates should never be seen or touched by anyone at school. We discuss the possibilities of students having accidents and encourage them to clean themselves up as much as possible, but that

Discipline

In an effort to provide an educational environment that is free from disruption and safe for both students and staff, we practice the following disciplinary procedures:

Redirection: Students displaying behaviors that are mildly to moderately inappropriate will be redirected to more positive and constructive activities.

Natural and Logical Consequences – Student displaying inappropriate behaviors will be subject to consequences for their actions that may include loss of privileges, temporary restriction from activities or peer interaction, added responsibilities to restore order, and other such measures that relate to the behavior in question.

Removal from situation: If a student is particularly destructive or hurtful, he/she is removed from the situation and asked to contemplate their actions. A student may be asked to sit in the classroom or on the playground.

Parent Conferences: If the above measures prove unsuccessful in correcting inappropriate behaviors, parents will be asked to meet with the staff to address the issue. In some instances, parents may be requested or required to seek assistance from a professional in the form of counseling, behavior management or instruction in parenting. If collaborative efforts of this nature do not produce measurable improvement, the student may be asked to leave the school. *Note- in all disciplinary situations, the staff discusses the behaviors with the student to verify the students understanding of the reasons behind the disciplinary action and to help the student develop the ability to control their actions.

Situations requiring immediate action – If a student displays behaviors that are deemed harmful or overly disruptive, the staff may contact the student’s parent/guardian to remove him/her from McKenzie Montessori Institute for the day. The Director will then discuss the behaviors with the staff involved and will determine whether further action is needed, including but not limited to, parent conference, suspension, or expulsion.

Regulation of the Behavior of Adults

For the safety and well-being of the students and staff, it is imperative that we establish parameters for appropriate behavior, not only of the student’s we serve, but also of the adults who accompany them. If a parent/guardian or another adult displays inappropriate, disruptive, or hazardous behaviors on the grounds or acts in an inappropriate manner towards students or staff while on/off the school grounds, the Director may withdraw permission for the individual to visit the school and has the option of removing his/her child from enrollment. In the event of expulsion, any tuition payment(s) will not be refunded.

Meals

Breakfast is served for early drop students from 7:30am- 8:30am every morning. We will provide morning & afternoon snacks and lunches. We follow the USDA State of Oregon and sanitation guidelines for all our healthy meals and snacks also when preparing, handling and transporting food. For consistency and adequate nutrition students are served the same meals. Sack lunches are permitted for students requiring a specific diet (example: gluten free, extreme allergies) and must include nutritious replacement components. Sugary and processed foods will not be allowed to be consumed and will be substituted with a nutritious replacement item. The school will provide a sack lunch on field trip days should the need occur as part of our educational program. We want the students to be open to new opportunities and possibilities and therefore ask the students to take no thank you bites of uneaten food. This instills great virtues like courage and strength.

If your student has any food allergies, please make sure that our staff is made aware of it.

“In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity in any program or activity conducted or funded by USDA. Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information (e.g. Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.), should contact the Agency (State or local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made available in languages other than English. To file a program complaint of discrimination, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint Form, (AD-3027) found online at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To 103 request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights 1400 Independence Avenue, SW Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) email: [email protected]”

Health and Wellness

Immunization

In accordance with Oregon Heath Authority, we do track immunization of each student Refer to mckmi.com for a link to the current immunization numbers.

Hair

Headlice-We have a no nit policy.

Students cannot return till lice/nits are gone. – Staff will check hair every morning at drop off for the week and again the following Monday. 6 days of nit free. Then no more check needed. From time-to-time students will ask for their hair to be done in order to do this we may need to brush it.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is School provided and only applied when needed. If a student has an allergy, parents are able to provide their own that is labeled with the student’s name and the staff/student will wash hands before applying. We use aerosol and lotion; Banana Boat water proof 50SPF sunscreen. Sunscreen is kept out of reach of children, but staff will allow children to apply sunscreen to themselves with supervision and when/if the child is able to.

Bug Repellent

We do not use any of these products at our school.

Hand Washing:

Hand washing has proven to be an effective method of controlling the spread of disease. The staff of McKenzie Montessori Institute shall set an example to the student and adhere to the following hand washing guidelines:

• Staff and students shall wash their hands with soap and warm running water for 20 seconds upon entering the building, after using the toilet or wiping their nose and before and after eating.
• Staff shall wash their hands with soap and warm running water for 20 seconds after assisting a child with toileting procedures, before and after handling any food, and after assisting a child with wiping their nose, feeding, coughing, sneezing, any outdoor activity, after petting or handling an animal.
• If no running water is accessible, hand sanitizer or wet wipes will be available for hand washer.

Portable Sink:

All portable sinks are emptied and refilled at the end of each day or when needed. They are put on a manual cart and brought to the janitorial room. The clean water is refilled in the three-compartment sink. After dumping gray water, sanitize with a half a cap full of bleach and rinsed in the three-compartment sink. On Fridays at the end of the day using the three-compartment sink both tanks get dumped and sanitized.

Diapering:

Diapers must be checked a minimum of every 2 hours and changed if any sign of a soiled or wet diaper appears. Or if their diaper is soiled or wet in between the designated changing times staff must wear gloves to change diapers and dispose of the diapers in a designated garbage/ diaper genie. After students are changed both staff and students wash hands and then changing tables is sanitized between each student. If clothes are soiled, they should be bagged and sent home that school day. If cloth diapers are used you may not rinse the diapers, they are sent home for the parent to clean and return the next school day. All fecal madder must be removed/cleaned off the student.

Toileting Procedures:

Assisting staff must sanitize after each student use for unsanitary conditions. Should a student require teacher assistance, ratios are to be always maintained, request for coverage must be made to the director(s) or lead in charge.

Potty Training Toddlers:

We have found that consistency and routine is required for successful potty training. Regular and consistent (every 20/30 minutes) restroom requests. Positive non-judgmental words and demeanor will always be used. If the student has an accident, the student is to work on and given adequate time to change their own clothes. If the student refuses, a gentle and calm hand-over-hand assistance is used. The student becomes encouraged to use the toilet as they become tired of always having to change their own clothes. Teaching your student to dress and undress themselves will help them to be successful in the potty-training process at school. As we do not help them only hand over hand process

When on field trips, students must be escorted to the restroom and supervised by a McKenzie Montessori Institute qualified teacher or Director. Ratios are to be maintained at all times.

Napping

Blankets and sheets for napping are kept in student’s individual cubbies and will be sent home every Friday or when an accident occurs bedding is put in a plastic bag to be washed and returned.

Safe Sleep:

Teachers must follow safe sleep procedures at all times. Monitoring a sleeping student. Students face must remain uncovered at all times. Once a child has fallen asleep staff will frequently do safety checks. Making sure there are no obstructions across the face, remove fallen pacifiers or objects, make sure they are breathing and sleeping well.

Caring for Infants

Pacifiers: Pacifiers are used to sooth students in the infant room but must be sanitized if it falls on the ground or another student gets ahold of it. They must be labeled with the student’s name and put away in closed containers when not in use. Pacifier attachments are prohibited inside of cribs.

Pacifier Storage Procedures

• Wash hands
• Rinse and sanitize pacifier
• Store in individual student containers

Bottles:

Bottles must be labeled with the student’s name. Bottles must be cleaned and sanitized in between feedings. Human breast milk must be labeled with the student’s full name and the date it was expressed. Human breast milk must be stored no more than 24hrs defrosted or thawed and 6 months frozen. Human breast milk must be refrigerated or frozen until being warmed. Once warmed the milk may not be reused after 2 hours and may not be returned to the refrigerator, freezer, or warmer after being initially reheated.

Bottle Preparation Procedures:

Breast Milk

• Wash hands
• Assemble bottle
• Pour desired amount of breast milk into bottle
• Heat bottle in warmer
• Feed the Infant
• Clean and sanitize the bottle for next use
• Wash hands
• Put bottle away

Formula

• Wash hands
• Assemble bottle
• Using filtered warm water make bottle according to formula instructions
• Feed the Infant
• Clean and sanitize the bottle for next use
• Wash hands
• Put bottle away

Water:

Infants under the age of 6 months cannot be served water unless they are given written permission by a medical professional. Water is available to the students when needed any time throughout the day.

Infants:

Please make sure all formula, breast milk, pacifiers, bottles, and any foods are clearly marked with the student’s name and date (for milk and food). Support for parents breastfeeding. If you need assistance support or more on how to feed your infant contact WIC 541-682-4202

Clothing

The Montessori environment is one of “hands on learning” and a place where we foster independence. Please refer to the following guidelines when choosing school clothes for your student:

Comfort and Appropriateness: The student needs to feel comfortable to truly engage in the learning process. They need to be dressed for the weather and temperature. Layers are good. Children also must wear shorts under dresses as we do a lot of work on the floor.

Durable and Washable: The road to perfection is paved with trial and error, much of which may come home on your student’s clothes.

Is your student potty training?: Onesies, overalls, and one-piece outfits are too difficult for small student’s to handle without assistance. To foster independence, we ask that these students come with clothes that can be successfully removed.

Accessible: By the age of 2 Clothing needs to be able to be removed and put on by the student. Shoes need to be able to be removed and put back on by your student. Onesies, overalls and one-piece skort outfits are too difficult for small students to handle without assistance.

Shoes: Appropriate running/walking shoes are required and best for our active environment. (All mobile students) Nature walks are common. All shoes must have toes covered with a heal strap and a hard sole. Flip flop material is not permitted as bark may go through it.

Dresses: Skirts: Shorts must be worn under dresses and/or skirts.

Weather appropriate: The students get daily fresh air year-round. Please be sure your student has appropriate outerwear. What is good in November may not be good for January.

Safety: Long necklaces and costume jewelry can be a choking hazard and are not permitted. Also be mindful of long dresses they may trip on.

Student extra clothes must be available at all times. Please make sure these are changed out as necessary when they are soiled, wet, the weather changes or your student has outgrown them. Extra shoes and socks are also a good idea in case their original pair gets wet. If no extra clothes are available, a parent will be called to either pick up your student or drop off clean clothing. Every student has their own cubby for storage.

Preschool Rest Times

Preschool students are required to have a 20-minute rest period per Child Care Division rules. Nappers will need to bring a blanket, pillow, and nap items (doll/animal) which help the student sleep. Please understand that students grow in and out of naps at their own individual pace, according to their body’s growth rates. Students in our environment are allowed the opportunity to listen to their body and know when it needs sleep. Therefore, after a student has rested for 20 minutes, they may look at a book or choose a work (Each classroom has their own after rest options)

Completed Work

Work done in the classroom will be compiled and sent home periodically (mostly on Fridays.) Activity charts and all other types of work must remain in the student’s folder. This allows the teachers to review the independent work and to make decisions regarding any follow-up work that may be needed. Please keep in mind that much of the work in the Montessori curriculum does not generate a “paper product” as it is the “process” not the “product” for a young student.

Sharing

The general rules for sharing include; Once a week, items should be of science, nature or for the sound of the week. We encourage students to be able to give us some information on their items. Special exceptions that are not science, nature or sound of the week may be given with prior teacher approval. Books are welcome every day. Toys (in general) are not welcome. MCKMI is not responsible for lost or broken items.

Birthdays

Birthday celebrations will take place as birthdays occur. For students whose birthdays fall over the weekend, we can celebrate on the previous Friday or following Monday. We encourage families to bring photos of your student. One for each year, from birth to their current age. These photos are a wonderful addition to our celebrations. If you have any concerns or religious reasons for which you do not want your students attending the celebrations; please be sure to let the teacher know beforehand. A special Birthday treat/snack may be brought in to share. The special treat must be purchased. We request that the snack be small and as little sugar as possible. Examples – small muffins, mini cookies.

Holidays:

Students love holidays and so do we. Holidays are great lessons of tradition and history. Students will be taught about the origin of the holiday and how it has evolved (or not) over the years and how it is observed today. Note: Decorations, art, etc. and conversations do not occur until the day or week of. This instills consistency and normality of the classroom’s environment. We observe all calendar holidays.

Nature walks, special visitors, and field trips are an important part of the educational program. Nature walks will take place throughout the year in order to observe the natural changes around us. We will also take field trips. Parents will be notified of planned field trips in advance via parent page, communication board, and/or permission slips. Field trips will have additional costs to the parents to help offset bus fuel & maintenance costs. Field trip fees will vary with location and admission. Students are required to wear school shirts on all school outings. Volunteers are encouraged.

Chaperones on Field Trips

We appreciate parent chaperones to help make field trips a safe and special experience. Following are some pointers on making field trips run smoothly:

• On the morning of the trip, we will supply you with the names of four or five children for whom you will be responsible.
• Please stay with your group at all times.
• We expect our students to behave appropriately and respectfully at all times.
• Please do not purchase any items (food, drinks, and mementos) for the students.
• This is not a social event for the teachers or parents. We ask, for the safety of the students, that you remain focused on your group at all times.
• Please feel free to ask one of the teachers if you need assistance or have any questions.
• Student must be supervised by a MCKMI staff member when needing to use the restroom.

Fundraisers

Fundraisers are extremely important to the continued success of the school. It helps out with new classroom materials, playground equipment and overhead. Participate as much as you can with fundraising efforts by attending and/or helping. If you have any great fundraising ideas, please let our Fundraising Coordinator know, by contacting the school.

Volunteers and Confidentiality

We encourage parents, families, and friends to take part in the children’s education. We can use volunteers to present an appropriate activity to the class, listen to children read, do special projects, donating used clothing, (pants/underwear), chaperone field trips, conducting online reviews, (Yelp, Yahoo, etc.) You receive 1 hr. for every review. Be sure to fill out a volunteer slip. The possibilities are endless. When parent volunteers come into a classroom, either on an occasional or regular basis, the issue of confidentiality arises. The volunteering parent is expected to maintain confidentiality and not discuss developmental levels of the children with other parents. This includes academic, social, and behavioral aspects of a child’s development. If a parent wishes to volunteer on a regular basis, he/she may be asked to help in a classroom other than his/her own students’ classroom. All volunteers working directly with children are required to go through a criminal history background check and attend a volunteer orientation class prior to volunteering. If you have something that you would like to share or have an idea of something that would enhance the education of the children, please let us know. All volunteers must sign in & out and must wear a visitor badge at all times. A staff member will escort you at all times.

Volunteer Requirements

We require 10 hours of volunteer work annually for each family enrolled. For this reason, volunteer hours are billed on the statements upon enrollment, and will be deducted after the volunteer hours are fulfilled. Volunteer hours may be completed by adult family members such as parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc… All required hours need to be completed by June 1st each year unless other arrangements have been made. Any hours not fulfilled are due with June’s tuition. To receive credit for volunteer hours, be sure to complete and submit a volunteer form. See attached.

Observations and drop in

Parents are welcome to “drop in” and check on their child at any time. We would prefer students to be observed from a distance (i.e., through the window) so as to not disturb the students’ processing and learning. Parents wishing to stay and observe are required to adhere following process:

Our school has gained an excellent reputation in the community. As such, parents, teachers, and student teachers from nearby colleges request observations. Additionally, we encourage our parents to provide support to their children by coming to observe their student’s classroom. Therefore, scheduling is necessary so that we do not overload the classrooms with observing adults. Too many adults can disrupt the normal learning environment for the child. Please call or text if you wish to make an appointment to observe your child. We prefer to schedule parent observations in the classrooms on Wednesdays. Observations will not be scheduled during the first few weeks of class in order to facilitate a smooth transition and normalization into the Montessori classroom. Generally, a visit of 30 minutes is sufficient to get an idea of what your student does at school. Arrangements can be made longer if you and your student’s teacher feel it is necessary. The visitor should strive to blend into the environment as much as possible and not initiate conversation with the students. This is not a time to have a conference with the teacher, because his/her full attention must be focused on the student in the classroom or on the playground. We invite you to schedule parent/teacher conferences when you can sit down together for uninterrupted conversation. Please be respectful and remember, you cannot truly observe the environment if you are participating in the activities.

Parent Involvement

You can greatly assist us in making this a successful school year! Here are a few ways you can help:

• Send us well-rested student.
• Be sure your student eats a nutritious breakfast – this is a must!
• Respond quickly when your student is ill or make alternate arrangements to have your sick student picked up from school.
• Keep your student home if he/she shows symptoms of illness.
• Make sure your student arrives at school on time and ready for the day.
• Limit absences other than for illness.
• Pay tuition and fees on time.
• Give support and be aware of your kindergarten or elementary child’s homework, as this is usually unfinished classroom work. Preschoolers may be asked to bring items from around the house for our sound of the week.
• Volunteer! – Especially for field trips and fundraisers.
• Inform us in advance if you know your student will be out of school.
• Contact us with your concerns.
• Attend all conferences, meetings, and special events.

Pets and Plants

It is our desire to keep student in connection with nature at all times. We can accomplish this by providing opportunities for students to care for plants and animals in the classroom. Written procedures on the care of our animals are available upon request. If your student has any allergies that may be affected by this, please let the director know.

Photographs and Publicity

Photographs of the students participating in our programs will be taken throughout the year and may appear in newspapers, Facebook, websites, magazines, brochures, yearbooks, or other publicity materials. Your permission for photographs of your student to be used without compensation is part of this agreement.

Illnesses

The Oregon Health Department prohibits childcare centers from admitting children who show any of the following symptoms:

• Fever over 100.4 degrees F
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Severe cough
• Unusual yellow color of skin or eyes
• Difficulty breathing or wheezing
• Complaints of severe pain
• Skin, eye lesions or rashes that are severe, weeping or puss-filled
• Stiff neck and headache with one or more of the symptoms listed above
• green discharge from the nose.

For the protection of all the students, your student should be kept at home if he/she shows any of the above symptoms. Parents should exercise every caution and keep their student home should other unusual symptoms occur. If a student has been exposed to a contagious disease, they should be kept at home and the diagnosis of their condition should be reported to the school including but not limited to: viral infections, infected ears and/or glands, measles, mumps, chicken pox, pink eye, and scarlet fever are among those conditions categorized as ‟highly contagious‶. If a student becomes ill during the day, s/he will be isolated, and parents will be contacted and asked to take the student home within 20 minutes after receiving the call as we are prohibited by law from caring for sick students. Parents will want to make sure they have emergency pick up plans in place to accommodate the 20-minute pick up window. Should the parent not have the student pickup within the 20-minute window there will be a fine imposed of $50.00 for the first 15 minutes and every 15 minutes, in 15-minute increments until the child has left. Students may return after 24hrs of symptom/fever free without medication. 48 hours symptom free for diarrhea or vomiting.

Medicines

Prescription medicines to be given to your student must be handed to the staff person in charge and a medicine authorization form must be filled out by the parent. If it is a rescue medication (i.e.: inhaler, antihistamine, etc.) needs an allergy care plan form filled out. Medication may be given under the following conditions:

• The medication must be in its original container, labeled with the name of the student, the name of the medicine, the name of the physician, the dosage, and instructions for administering the medication.
• Non-prescription medication, such as Tylenol, cough medicine, sunscreen, etc., must be labeled with the student’s name, instructions, and dosage. Over the counter medicines must also be kept in their original container.

Medicine Disbursement

Should your student acquire a high fever (101 or above) we will provide him/her with a dose of fever reducer. All efforts will be made to contact a parent/guardian prior to the disbursement. A signed authorization form must be on file.

Medical Emergencies

In the event of a dental, medical emergency or accident, we will contact 911 and the student’s parents. Your authorization for the school to contact your family physician/dentist and to take whatever emergency medical procedures are deemed necessary are part of this agreement. By signing this agreement, parents are accepting responsibility for all medical and emergency fees acquired for the care of your student.

Emergency Procedures

In case of an emergency (fire, flood, etc.), parents and/or emergency contacts will be notified by telephone. If it is necessary to evacuate the building, students, accompanied by staff members, will re-locate to Planet Fitness located at 4223 Main Street, Springfield Oregon 97478 (541)-744-9000. In the event of evacuation, parents will be contacted and instructed to pick up their student immediately. In order for your students to be safe, it is vital that we have your current contact information.

Emergency Medical Procedures for students, Response to injury:

If a student requires emergency medical attention the parent must be notified immediately. Should an emergency responder be called parents will be notified immediately. After/during the student will be transported by the emergency vehicle if the medics deem necessary. If a staff member needs emergency medical transportation their emergency contact will be notified immediately.

• The first adult (teacher) aware of the injury will assess the student for further action. They will call for another staff member (assistant) and inform them of the situation. The assistant will then call 9-1-1 and then the student’s parent.
• The teacher will administer any First Aid/CPR that may be immediately required. Any supplies will be brought by the assistant after the phone calls have been made.

First Aid Procedures:

In first aid situations, all staff are required to stay current on their first aid training and follow the procedures in first aid situations. There are special procedures for bloodborne pathogens. So, any bloodborne pathogen procedure needs to be followed; gloves and mask, cleaning of wounds, and bleaching any spots blood is found. An accident report is required to be filled out any time a student gets hurt even if no mark is left. If a head injury occurs; the parent must be notified. This is a courtesy call so they are not alarmed at pick up or so the parent can decide if they are wanting to pick up or want us to monitor for signs of concussion.

Other

• MCKMI are mandated reporters by the State of Oregon to report all cases of child abuse and/or neglect.
• MCKMI admits all students regardless of race, color, nationality, disability, or religious background.
• Staff-to-child ratio. Infant- 1-4, Wobbler-1-4, Toddler- 1-5, Preschool Age- 1-10, School Age- 1-15.

Toxic Chemicals and pesticides:

The use of pesticides and other toxic substances are prohibited when students are on site. These things will be used or applied during non-school hours.

Concerns:

Safety, policy, and concerns can be addressed with your student’s teacher or the Director.

Additional Contact Information:

• Center Certification Rules: Upon request
• Child Care Licensing Department: 800-556-6616
• Child Abuse and Neglect Hotline: 855-503-7233
• Early learning and care website: [email protected]
• You can also access information about child care provides on the child care safety portal.
  
  

Infant, Wobbler & Toddler required Supplies

Infants:

• Diapers (bulk is best) recommended 6-8 daily. There will be a $5.00 charge for each facility diaper used
• Wipes (Ointment – If needed)
• 3 – 4 complete outfits. Put each outfit in a gallon Ziplock back clearly marked with student’s name
• Sleep sac (age appropriate – required)
• 2 crib sheets
• Formula/Breast milk (clearly marked with child’s name) -Facility provides formula, if declined, parent provide labeled with student’s name
• Pacifiers (clearly marked with student’s name)
• 2 bibs
• Non-disposable water bottle (bottle should be plain in appearance – no characters please)
• A fabric reusable bag with handles

Wobbler:

• Diapers (bulk is best) recommended 6-8 daily. There will be a $5.00 charge for each facility diaper used. No Pull Ups! Please!
• Wipes (Ointment-If needed)
• Blanket
• 2 crib sheets or nap sheets to lay on.
• Specialty foods if medical reasons require- snack/ lunch must be prepared clearly marked with student’s name.
• 3 – 4 complete outfits. Put each outfit in a gallon Ziplock back clearly marked with student’s name.
• A fabric reusable bag with handles

Toddlers:

• Diapers (bulk is best) recommended 6-8 daily. There will be a $5.00 charge for each facility diaper used.
• Training underwear if potty training is/will begin (bulk is best). No Pull Ups! Please!
• Wipes
• Blanket
• 2 crib sheets or nap sheet to lay on
• (If needed) Special animal/doll for nap time comfort
• Specialty foods if medical reasons require- Snack/ Lunch must be prepared clearly marked with student’s name
• 3 – 4 complete outfits. Put each outfit in a gallon Ziplock back clearly marked with student’s name.
• A fabric reusable bag with handles

Pk1 and P3 Classroom

• Nap time blanket
• Special animal/doll for nap time comfort (if needed)
• A complete set of change of clothes
• Two crib sheets or nap sheets to lay on
• Slippers non-character soft soled
• A fabric reusable bag with handles

K2

• Change of clothes

By signing this contract, parents accept responsibility for any and all fees acquired in collecting past due debt.

Please sign and return the attached form indicating that you have read and understand the terms of this handbook.

McKenzie Montessori Institute
285 S. 42nd Street
Springfield OR 97477

Handbook Recognition 2025-2026

I, the undersigned, have read, understand, and agree to comply with the terms and conditions of the McKenzie Montessori Institute Parent Handbook.

Students Name: ____________________
Parent’s Signature & Date: : ____________________     __________

Nondiscriminatory Student Policy

McKenzie Montessori Institute Incorporated admits students of any race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, scholarship, loan programs, athletic and other school-administered programs.