September, 2011
STAFF MANUAL
....................... SAGE COTTAGE is incorporated as a
non-profit educational organization overseen by The Board of Directors and
operated under the direction of Sandra Sorensen and Cheri Host. Sage Cottage
offers high quality Montessori Play-based and Science education in a warm,
ordered, loving environment for infants through early childhood. Sage Cottage School accepts all children
without regard to ethnic origin, religion, etc.
The policies, programs, and rules of conduct set forth in this handbook
may be changed as circumstances warrant.
Staff will be notified of changes.
No part of this handbook may be interpreted as an employer/employee
contract.
Table of
Contents
Professional Attitude and Code of Ethics
Performance Evaluation Procedure
Office Manager Job Description
Teacher's Assistant Job
Description
Substitute Teacher Job
Description
Aide in
Training (AIT) Information Sheet
Infant
Classroom and Toddler Classroom
Transition
Classroom and Early Childhood Classroom
Conferences & Communication with Parents
Health, Sickness, and Medication
Snow Days - School
Cancellation
Student Admissions and Discharge
Schedule B - State Regulations for Licensed Child Care
Facilities
Schedule C - Staff Orientation Verification Form
Schedule D - Sage Cottage Career Lattice
Schedule E - Job
Evaluations & Development Plans
Administrative
Details
Emphasis must be placed on the fact that we are a team -- a family.
This manual is intended to define the culture of
Organizational Chart
Payroll, Leave & Benefits
New Hires
Employees are hired on a three-month
probationary period during which either party can terminate employment. An
employee will go through an orientation, at which time the Director will run
through the new employee orientation form (see Section C). Upon completion of the three-month
probationary period, an employee may be considered a regular employee of the
school year or continued on another probationary period. Regular employees are eligible for the
following benefits.
Paid time off
Paid leave is based upon a 40 hour work
week. For the first 5 years of
employment leave is accrued at 8-hours per month, after 5 years of employment
leave is accrued at 10-hours per month, After 10 years of employment leave is
accrued at 14-hours per month. Leave hours are accrued every two weeks and are prorated
based upon hours worked.
Substitute teachers do no accrue paid leave.
Accrued
leave is not paid if the employee terminates employment without sufficient (at
least 2-weeks) notice to the Director.
Leave Without Pay (LWOP)
LWOP is discouraged except in illness and
emergency situations. Our school is open
twelve months of the year with two significant breaks and multiple holidays
throughout. To minimize the disruptions to the classroom and the children it is
expected that under normal circumstances LWOP will not be used. Leave without pay must be approved by the
Director.
Holidays
Paid holidays include New Years, The 4th
of July, Columbus Day, and 3 floating holidays.
All other Sage Cottage closures are non-paid. (See Calendar in section
A) Holiday pay hours are accrued based on
average hours worked the month containing the holiday. The floating holidays may be taken for any
scheduled Sage Cottage closure.
Substitute teachers do not accrue paid leave.
Monthly set-up time
Each teacher may be paid for up to 4 hours of
classroom set-up time per month. Work time over the 4 hours is paid at minimum
wage.
Training and Development
Each teacher is expected to obtain 24 hours
of annual training and development as defined later in the handbook. Sage Cottage will provide opportunities to
meet this requirement.
Teachers are given 3 hours with pay during
the school year to observe another early
childhood school. Scheduling of
a substitute must be done in advance and notice must be given to the Director
prior to the observation.
Salaries
All teaching positions at Sage Cottage are
non-exempt (hourly pay rate)) positions.
The rates are determined based upon experience, performance, and value
to the school. The Director position is
exempt (annual pay rate).
Pay periods are 2 weeks, Saturday - Friday. Paychecks are distributed every two weeks on
the Thursday following the end of the pay period,
Health Insurance
Insurance options are provided to full-time
(30+ hours/week) employees should they choose to take advantage of the offering
and agree to pay a portion of the cost.
Retirement
Sage Cottage provides a Simple IRA program,
available to employees with at least one year of continual service at Sage
Cottage. This program is pre-tax savings
and includes monthly employer contributions.
Employees may also elect to contribute to the plan.
Professional Attitude and Code of Ethics
Standards
of ethical behavior in early childhood care and education are based on
commitment to core values that are deeply rooted in the history of our
field. We have committed ourselves to:
·
Appreciating
childhood as a unique and valuable stage of the human life cycle
·
Basing
our work with children on knowledge of child development
·
Appreciating
and supporting the close ties between child and family
·
Recognizing
that children are best understood and supported in the context of family,
culture, community and society
·
Respecting
the dignity, worth and uniqueness of each individual (child, family member and
colleague)
·
Helping
children and adults achieve their full potential in the context of
relationships that are based on trust, respect, and positive regard
A
teacher is entitled to his/her private life while not at school. However, a
teacher must maintain a manner of conduct that does not negatively impact Sage
Cottage’s integrity or reputation or his/her ability to perform his/her
job. If a teacher uses alcohol to excess
or drugs and the teacher’s ability at school is affected, it becomes a
problem with which the school must be concerned. A teacher will be sent home without pay if
there is evidence of substance abuse or for any other reason that prevents
him/her from performing assigned duties and protecting the children’s
safety. If substance abuse continues
after being sent home, this is grounds for dismissal.
Stealing
is a serious matter at Sage Cottage.
Stealing is defined as misuse, borrowing, or taking of anything that is
the property of the school or children at school. Theft of any kind is prohibited. Examples of stealing are: Taking of school
supplies for personal use, taking food from a child’s lunch, willfully
misusing the time clock or not clocking out during non-paid breaks, making long
distance phone calls on the school’s account, copying personal matter on
the school’s copier, etc. An employee caught in an act of theft will be
dismissed.
Reliability
and promptness are important characteristics of a teacher. Children depend upon the staff to be there
consistently and on time. Excessive, habitual and unauthorized absence and
tardiness are disruptive to the care of the children and create a burden on
other staff members. Every staff member
has a defined schedule and is expected to maintain it. There are circumstances such as illness and
emergencies that warrant the teacher’s absence. Under these circumstances, it is the
employee’s responsibility to notify the Director who will secure a
substitute from the approved list. It is not acceptable to leave a phone
message for someone to discover later in the day. Make contact with the Director prior to the
start of your shift. If tardiness or
attendance becomes regular in a staff member’s performance, it will be
addressed with the employee and a change will be expected immediately. Should the identified change in behavior not
happen, this is grounds for dismissal.
A
teacher may resign her position at any time from
School
affairs MUST NOT be discussed with clients (parents) of the school, nor should
personal family information be discussed with personnel of the school. This is
grounds for dismissal. This information is confidential and should only be
discussed with the appropriate person involved. Never discuss a child’s progress in
front of the child when talking to staff or parents. It is contrary to the interest of the school
and the children we serve to give out information regarding children, parents,
or staff. Such information should be
held in strict confidence and should not be discussed with anyone outside of
the school. Inside the school, such information should be discussed only when
it will benefit the care we offer the children and the parent. Refer any inquiries on children, their
performance, and parents to the Director. The following are considered
confidential school affairs.
1)
Teacher’s salaries, schedules, work expectations, and working conditions.
2)
Student progress, ability, emotional development, or any area of concern
related to school, home, and family.
3)
School related decisions regarding staff, children, and school. These issues are not to be discussed outside
the school until the Executive Director or Board makes a public announcement.
When a
group of people are working together, it is necessary to have common rules of
conduct so that the actions of one individual will not be detrimental to other
staff persons or the children. The
purpose of these rules is to define and protect the rights of all who work
here, and to assure that all staff work under the same conditions. In addition
to other matters discussed earlier in this chapter, RULES INCURRING IMMEDIATE DISCHARGE ARE:
1
Striking
or abusing a child (emotionally or physically), endangering the life of a
child, humiliating a child, or withholding food from a child as punishment.
2
Any act,
willful or otherwise, that jeopardizes the physical and emotional well being of
a child.
3
Leaving
a child unattended or a group of children out of child/staff ratio (phone calls
are a particular circumstance creating this type of situation).
4
Abuse or
inconsiderate treatment of staff or visitors.
5
Unauthorized
removal or use of school property.
6
Unauthorized
removal/misuse of records or unauthorized divulgence of parents, children, or
school confidential information.
7
Misrepresentation
of qualifications or credentials.
8
Refusal
to perform assigned work or follow instructions (insubordination).
9
Gross
carelessness or negligence.
10 Willful destruction of property.
11 Sleeping during working hours.
12 Coercing or inciting others to limit work
performance or engage in any practice in violation of school rules.
13 Unauthorized phone (including texting) use
while with the children.
Sage
Cottage is a professional workplace and it is expected that employees’
behavior will reflect this. The
following commonsense rules of behavior will minimize hurt feelings,
disagreements, and disruptions to our valued children:
1. Do not talk behind someone’s back. If you have an issue with someone, be courageous
and discuss it with that individual in a polite but honest manner. If the complaint cannot be resolved through
informal dialog, the employee should document the problem and bring it to the
attention of his/her supervisor.
2. If the employee does not feel a resolution
has been reached the problem should be documented and a meeting scheduled with
the Director.
3. There is no job at Sage Cottage that is below
another; treat everyone with respect.
Disrespect will drive away people and destroy the unity we are trying to
achieve and foster for a fertile learning environment.
4. If there is ever a question of character of
another staff member, notify your supervisor immediately.
5. Put your positive attitudes into the school
and bring negative aspects to the Director.
Positive attitudes transmit positive feeling to the children, parents,
and staff members. NEGATIVE ATTITUDES
DETERIORATE WORKING RELATIONSHIPS AND ARE PICKED UP BY THE CHILDREN.
Dress Code & Appearance
The school staff will maintain a professional
appearance. It is expected that
employees will wear comfortable, neat and clean clothing. Clothing shall be in good
condition and not have holes or tears in them.
Tops and tank tops must have straps measuring at least one inch –
no spaghetti straps. Please wear
appropriate undergarments. Shorts are
permissible during the warmer months, but they must be fashioned in good taste
– no short shorts or cut-offs. Sandals are acceptable in the summer as long
as they do not impede movement in an emergency.
Your midriff, chest and lower back are to be covered
at all times. This means that any shirt
you wear must cover you completely (especially when you are wearing low riding
pants). A good way to test this is to
stand in front of the mirror in the morning, raise your hands as far as they
will go over your head. If any part of
your stomach or back is showing, your shirt is too short or your pants are too
low.
Inappropriate clothing, personal hygiene, or general appearance
is grounds for excusing a staff member from class to make the correction. We
are models for the children as well as professionals to the parents and we must
have our appearances reflect it!
Harassment Policy
Any employee who believes he or she is being discriminated against or harassed based on any of the grounds stated above should report it immediately to his or her direct supervisor or the director. This should be followed up with a written report from the complainant. The Sage Cottage Executive Director or Board will investigate the complaint (which may include outside professional involvement), make a written determination of its conclusion and when appropriate, prepare a plan of action to correct the problem and prevent reoccurrence. The Executive Director of Sage Cottage shall inform the complaining employee of its determination. CYFD will also be informed of the incident.
Under no circumstances will an employee be penalized for reporting what the employee believes in good faith to be harassment under this policy. If you believe that you are being retaliated against for bringing a complaint of harassment or discrimination, you should report such conduct immediately to your direct supervisor or the director of Sage Cottage. Any supervisor or director who retaliates against an employee for making a complaint shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Performance Evaluation Procedure
The Director and employee will get together on an annual basis to review the employee’s performance and discuss a development plan. The appropriate evaluation form found in Section E of this manual will be used as a guide. An employee may be evaluated sooner if a new employee is being evaluated after 90 days, due to behavior, or if the employee requests it.
During the school year, employees will be monitored for exemplary work as well as problems. The career lattice for moving from one job position to another can be found in Section D of this Manual.
Criteria for a successful employee evaluation include, but are not limited to:
On time attendance
Following
Maintaining a positive, professional attitude
Following Sage Cottage guidelines and Sage Cottage Job
Descriptions
Teaming and getting along with other Sage Cottage staff
Putting the needs and safety of the children FIRST
General
Work
time is for work. Any conduct that
interferes with the work time of a staff person is not acceptable. Personal phone calls and visitors are
distractions and are discouraged during school hours. Also, staff is not permitted to leave work or
do personal business (i.e. running personal errands, making or receiving
personal phone calls that are not emergencies, tardiness returning from lunch)
during paid work hours without consulting the Director.
Smoking
is strongly discouraged. If an employee
must smoke, it is to be done outside of work hours and clothing and person
should not smell of smoke.
The
school telephone is for business purposes.
Excessive use of the school phone for personal business is not
acceptable. Personal phones shall be kept in ones car or in the “phone
parking lot” in the kitchen. Phones shall not be used while you are on
the playground or while you are responsible for children in the classroom. In general, the school office will take
messages on all personal phone calls unless there is an emergency or a family
member needs to speak to you.
Staff
is permitted to have drinks in the classroom but they must be in an appropriate
container and kept out of reach of children.
The
school maintains a personnel file on each of its employees. Each employee file
will have at minimum the following:
1) Application for employment.
2) Employment History and References Staff
Records - The school uses this form to verify employment for the past three
years and check character references.
3) Criminal fingerprint verification
letter. If a new investigation is
required, the
4) Documentation of training taken. Obtain 24 hours of training annually. The
State of
5) Child Abuse Statement.
6) Teacher emergency information form.
7) W-4 form.
8) I-9 Form.
9) NM New Hires reporting form.
10) Copy of HS Diploma and if applicable, College
transcripts, diploma, and certifications
Job Descriptions
Director
Job Description
Summary of
Job: The Sage Cottage Director must be
professionally prepared and adept as a leader of the early childhood program
and administrator of the school. The Director shall be experienced in the
fields of early childhood development, Montessori education, school
administration and small business management; and must be a sensitive, loving,
mature individual who is able to relate well with children, staff, and parents. The Director works closely with the Office Manager
to ensure all duties are accomplished.
Requirements: Must have proven experience
leading and managing an Early Childhood program.
Should have an Early Childhood degree, Montessori Certification,
CDA, or equivalent, and must maintain the annual state continuing education
requirements.
Work Schedule: As determined by children’s schedules and Executive
Director
Major Duties: Major
duties include, but are not limited to:
Personnel
- Be diligent and proactive in the recruitment of new
staff.
- Maintain a list of qualified and available substitute
teachers.
- Keep employee files complete and current.
o
Check
and document employment for previous 3 years for new employees.
o
Ensure
new employees have completed a W-4 form and examine credentials.
o
Ensure
the Child Abuse form is signed and dated prior to a new employee having contact
with children
o
Make
sure employee has completed and signed an application for employment.
o
Confirm
completion of Emergency Form.
o
Place
a copy of employee’s job description (excerpted from this handbook) in
the file.
o
Place
the employee’s current work schedule in the file.
- Follow school’s 90-day probation period with new
employees.
- File criminal background check fingerprint cards with
Department of Public Safety.
- File NM
New Hire reports.
- Perform
an orientation with each employee before they start in the classroom.
- Review and approve employee hours from time clock
system prior to paychecks being issued for payroll periods.
- Serve as agent to the NM Department of Labor regarding
unemployment issues.
- Respond
to claims for unemployment.
- Serve as agent for NM Workman’s compensation
insurance.
o
If
an accident occurs on the job, file a report with Workman’s compensation
insurance company.
- Collaborate with Board on the annual raises, changes to
salary and rate schedules.
- Report to the Board issues that require action or
assistance.
- Promote an internal organization that permits
effective communication.
Teacher/Staff Relations
- Maintain personal contact with employees to foster
good relations and communications, promote high morale, and identify
personnel problems as early as possible.
- Establish daily staffing schedules that include breaks
and planning time and minimize overtime.
- Ensure teacher/child ratios are in compliance with
State regulations.
- Perform annual performance review and development
planning with each employee.
- Promote
a safe/accident-free work culture through staff training and
policies/procedures.
o
Arrange
for an annual CPR/First Aid training.
o
Arrange
for appropriate staff trainings and workshops, and conferences.
- Schedule
and lead monthly staff meetings, and ensure Lead Teachers schedule and
hold monthly LT meetings.
Parent Relations
- Implement enrollment during March of each year for the
new year beginning September 1. Coordinate
enrollment and maintain a waitlist to optimally fill all classes
throughout the entire year.
- Provide school program information and school tours to
prospective clients and visitors.
- Ensure new clients are given a warm welcome and
provided a school orientation.
- Work with Lead Teachers to schedule, plan, and
implement parent/teacher conferences at least 2 times per year (Fall and Spring).
- Serve as
coordinator for special conferences related to behavior issues.
- Gather
input from staff and publish the Newsletter by the first week of each
month.
- Schedule
and coordinate special Parent and Family school events. (e.g. Open House/Parent Orientation,
Family Nights,
Operations
- Hold general operating responsibility for the
safety and well being of all students and staff. Safety is a priority.
- Maintain an aesthetically attractive environment.
- Print and distribute student sign-in sheets on a
weekly basis.
- Keep children’s schedules current in the Sage
Cottage database and provide input to billing.
- Renew
- Renew
licenses of Sage Cottage 60 days before expiration.
- Issue & account for keys (keys are stamped and
numbered).
- Maintain compliance with CYFD (State Licensing)
regulations and report reportable matters to CYFD.
- Support
the annual inspection of Sage Cottage.
- Support
audits and investigations.
- Train and supervise teachers and children in the
execution of fire drills.
- Hold
fire drills at least once each month.
- Arrange
for annual fire inspection.
- Implement and follow policies and procedures in staff
manual.
- Keep the Board informed of school matters, issues, and
problems.
- Understand and exhibit a professional manner and
appearance.
- Always document anything that concerns you. This will protect the Director and the
school.
- Report to the Board, physical deficiencies and
improvements of the grounds that need to be made to maintain desired
standards of appearance, safety and adequacy.
- Coordinate regular facility maintenance. (e.g. sprinkler
system, swamp coolers, heaters, pest control,…)
Financial
- Maintain purchases within a monthly budget. Contact Board for Capital purchases >
$5,000.
- Input expenditures and receipts to the financial
database.
- Issue biweekly employee paychecks.
- Work with Board to develop an annual budget.
- Work with Accountants to develop annual financials and
tax returns.
- Ensure bills are paid on-time.
- Issue monthly statements to parents and collect
tuition and fees.
Programs
- Ensure that the environments and materials are changed
out at least monthly.
- Ensure that curriculum schedules are developed, posted
and followed.
- Work with Teachers to design and continually improve
student programs and services.
- Encourage and help coordinate field trips. Ensure that authorization forms are
signed and returned by each parent prior to student participation in the
field trip.
Child Protection
- Ensure that the discipline policies of the school are
being followed.
- Inform
the Board of all situations and circumstances that pertain to the well being
of children in the care of the school.
This includes any suspicion of physical or sexual abuse. Contact
CYFD to report even a suspicion of child abuse.
- Be aware of all unusual or suspicious situations with
the children at the school. Insure
that such situations are documented in the child’s file and it is
indicated that the child is under observation by the staff.
- Ensure that the staff is following the
accident/incident reporting and documentation procedures of the school.
- Serve as a resource and provide support for the
staff. Answer questions teachers
might have about their classroom, philosophy, behaviorally challenging
children, etc.
Record
Keeping
- Assure that parents are signing their children in and
out accurately. Keep student files
current, including immunization records and transportation authorization.
- Keep accurate records of problems or concerns in the
child’s file, including physical or sexual abuse, and all troubling
situations. Accident reports and
medication authorization forms must be kept as part of the child’s
permanent record in the office.
- Ensure
accident reports, incident reports, medication forms, and other paperwork
are being completed.
- Keep an organized notebook of daily events and a
record of operations.
- Maintain the school financial database and employee
time clock data
Health and Medical
- Inform parents when a child in the school has
contracted a contagious illness such as chicken pox, mumps, measles, etc.
- Contact parents when a child appears to have an
illness and needs to be picked up.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful, positive, and professional attitude. Set the example!
·
Assume responsibility for the school.
·
Be on time to work and other Sage Cottage events.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
Work Environment
·
Salary As
determined by the Executive Director
·
Paid
Personal Leave, Holidays 10
days paid leave per year, all Federal
Holidays
·
Health
Insurance Medical and Dental offered
·
Working
Hours As
scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time None – Salaried
position
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements for a center director position.
Continuing education courses, conferences, and self-study are strongly
encouraged.
Office
Manager Job Description
Summary of
Job: The Sage Cottage Office Manager must be
professionally prepared and adept to manage the daily operations of the school.
The Office Manager shall work closely with the Site Director and Executive
Director in keeping the school running smoothly, and must be a sensitive,
loving, mature individual who is able to relate well with children, staff, and
parents.
Requirements: Must have a High School diploma
or GED and have completed “The 45 hour entry level class” or be
willing and able to complete the class within 6 months. Must be proficient in
working with a computer. An Early Childhood degree or Montessori
Certification is highly desired. Must maintain the annual state continuing education requirements.
Work Schedule: As determined by the Site Director and Executive Director
Major Duties: Major
duties include, but are not limited to:
Personnel
- Maintain a list of qualified and available substitute
teachers.
- Keep employee files complete and current.
o
Check
and document employment for previous 3 years for new employees.
o
Ensure
new employees have completed a W-4 form and examine credentials.
o
Ensure
the Child Abuse form is signed and dated prior to a new employee having contact
with children
o
Make
sure employee has completed and signed an application for employment.
o
Confirm
completion of Emergency Form.
o
Place
a copy of employee’s job description (excerpted from this handbook) in
the file.
o
Place
the employee’s current work schedule in the file.
- File criminal background check fingerprint cards with
Department of Public Safety.
- File NM
New Hire reports.
- Perform
an orientation with each employee before they start in the classroom.
- Review and approve employee hours from time clock
system prior to paychecks being issued for payroll periods.
- Serve as agent for NM Workman’s compensation
insurance.
o
If
an accident occurs on the job, file a report with Workman’s compensation
insurance company.
- Promote an internal organization that permits
effective communication.
Teacher/Staff Relations
- Maintain personal contact with employees to foster
good relations and communications, promote high morale, and identify
personnel problems as early as possible.
- Establish daily staffing schedules that include breaks
and planning time and minimize overtime.
- Ensure teacher/child ratios are in compliance with
State regulations.
- Promote
a safe/accident-free work culture through staff training and
policies/procedures.
o
Arrange
for an annual CPR/First Aid training.
o
Arrange
for appropriate staff trainings and workshops, and conferences.
- Schedule
monthly staff meetings, and ensure Lead Teachers schedule and hold monthly
LT meetings.
Parent Relations
- Implement enrollment during March of each year for the
new year beginning September 1. Coordinate
enrollment and maintain a waitlist to optimally fill all classes
throughout the entire year.
- Provide school program information and school tours to
prospective clients and visitors.
- Ensure new clients are given a warm welcome and
provided a school orientation.
- Gather
input from staff and publish the Newsletter by the first week of each
month.
- Help
Schedule and coordinate special Parent and Family school events. (e.g. Open House/Parent Orientation,
Family Nights,
Operations
- Maintain an aesthetically attractive environment.
- Print and distribute student sign-in sheets on a weekly
basis.
- Keep children’s schedules current in the Sage
Cottage database.
- Renew County Business license annually.
- Renew
licenses of Sage Cottage 60 days before expiration.
- Issue & account for keys (keys are stamped and
numbered).
- Maintain compliance with CYFD (State Licensing)
regulations and report reportable matters to CYFD.
- Support
the annual inspection of Sage Cottage.
- Support
audits and investigations.
- Hold
fire drills at least once each month.
- Arrange
for annual fire inspection.
- Implement and follow policies and procedures in staff
manual.
- Understand and exhibit a professional manner and
appearance.
- Always document anything that concerns you. This will protect the Director and the
school.
- Coordinate regular facility maintenance. (e.g. sprinkler
system, swamp coolers, heaters, pest control,…)
Financial
- Input expenditures and receipts to the financial
database.
- Ensure bills are paid on-time.
- Issue monthly statements to parents and collect
tuition and fees.
Programs
- Encourage and help coordinate field trips. Ensure that authorization forms are
signed and returned by each parent prior to student participation in the
field trip.
Child Protection
- Ensure that the discipline policies of the school are
being followed.
- Be aware of all unusual or suspicious situations with
the children at the school. Insure
that such situations are documented in the child’s file and it is
indicated that the child is under observation by the staff.
- Ensure that the staff is following the
accident/incident reporting and documentation procedures of the school.
- Serve as a resource and provide
support for the staff.
Record
Keeping
- Assure that parents are signing their children in and
out accurately. Keep student files
current, including immunization records and transportation authorization.
- Keep accurate records of problems or concerns in the
child’s file, including physical or sexual abuse, and all troubling
situations. Accident reports and
medication authorization forms must be kept as part of the child’s
permanent record in the office.
- Ensure
accident reports, incident reports, medication forms, and other paperwork
are being completed.
- Maintain the school financial database and employee
time clock data
Health and Medical
- Inform parents when a child in the school has
contracted a contagious illness such as chicken pox, mumps, measles, etc.
- Contact parents when a child appears to have an
illness and needs to be picked up.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful, positive, and professional attitude. Set the example!
·
Assume responsibility for the school.
·
Be on time to work and other Sage Cottage events.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
Work Environment
·
Salary As
determined by the Executive Director
·
Paid
Personal Leave, Holidays Listed
in Staff Handbook
·
Health
Insurance Medical and Dental offered
·
Working
Hours As
scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time 1.5 times salary over
40 hours/week
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements for a center director position.
Continuing education courses, conferences, and self-study are strongly
encouraged.
Lead
Teacher Job Description
Summary of Job: A Sage Cottage Teacher must be professionally prepared and adept
as a teacher of young children. The Teacher shall be experienced in the fields
of Early Childhood Development and Montessori education, and must be a
sensitive, loving, mature individual who is able to relate well with both
children and adults.
Requirements: Must have a High School diploma or GED and have
completed “The 45 hour entry level class” or be willing and able to
complete the class within 6 months. An
Early Childhood degree or Montessori Certification is highly desired. Must maintain the annual
state continuing education requirements.
Work Schedule: As determined by
children’s schedules, Director, Office Manager, Teacher, and posted on
the daily work schedule list.
Major Duties: Major
duties include, but are not limited to:
Curriculum
·
Plan, supervise and implement the daily program,
gearing it to the needs of the individual child with concerns for his/her interests,
disabilities, special talents and individual style and pace of learning.
·
Give children a variety of learning experiences.
·
Develop appropriate lesson plans.
·
Keep skills up to date by reading journal articles and books and
attending classes and conferences on practices and theory on early childhood
education.
Children
·
Treat
each child with dignity and respect.
·
Help
each child develop self-worth and a good self-image.
·
Manage
the classroom atmosphere and dynamics.
·
Provide
many opportunities for children to communicate.
·
Maintain
the confidence of the school concerning matters of child relationships.
Environment
·
Manage
the classroom to include maintaining a calm, inviting, supportive environment
for the children and visitors.
·
Care
for and maintain classroom materials
·
Regularly
(at least monthly) rotate and change out classroom materials.
·
Keep the room clean and empty the trashcans each night. Take
laundry to kitchen after afternoon snack.
·
Clean up after snacks,
lunches, and crafts.
·
Care for and feed classroom plants and animals
Parents
·
Encourage
parents to observe and participate in the program.
·
Communicate
regularly with parents.
·
Hold
parent conferences at least 2 times each year.
·
Team
with parents in the education and guidance of their children.
Staff
·
Work
with and communicate appropriately with the entire staff to develop a smooth
educational process and experience for the children.
·
Team
with and mentor Teaching Assistants.
·
Participate
in staff meetings, training programs and other Sage Cottage activities.
·
Refrain
from gossip and keep sensitive matters in confidence.
Health and Safety
·
Ensure for the safety of the children at all times.
·
Inform the Director of any unusual or suspicious situation with
any Sage Cottage student, including suspected physical, sexual, or emotional
abuse.
·
Maintain child-teacher ratios at all times.
·
Follow the Sage Cottage and State safety rules.
·
Be active in identifying and mitigating day-to-day safety issues.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful and positive attitude.
·
Assume responsibility for the classroom and the school.
·
Be on time to work and other Sage Cottage events.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
·
Actively participate in monthly Lead Teacher meetings.
·
Attend all required staff meetings.
Work Environment
·
Salary
As determined by the Directors
·
Paid
Personal Leave,
·
Health
Insurance Medical and Dental offered
·
Working
Hours
As scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time 1.5 times salary
over 40 hours/week
Record
Keeping
·
Maintain an ongoing portfolio for each child which
includes written observations, pictures, and developmental checklists.
·
Maintain daily attendance records for the class.
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements. Continuing education
courses, conferences, and self-study are strongly encouraged.
Teacher's Assistant Job Description
Summary of
Job: A Sage Cottage Teaching
Assistant must be adept as a teacher of young children. The Teaching Assistant
must be a sensitive, loving, mature individual who is able to relate well with
both children and adults.
Requirements: Must have a High School
diploma or GED and have completed “The 45 hour entry level class”
or be willing and able to complete the class within 6 months. Must maintain the annual
state continuing education requirements.
Work Schedule: As determined by
children’s schedules, Director, Office Manager, Teacher, and posted on
the daily work schedule list.
Major Duties: Major
duties include, but are not limited to:
Curriculum
·
Implement the daily program, gearing it to the needs
of the individual child with concerns
for his/her interests, disabilities, special talents and individual style and
pace of learning.
·
Give children a variety of learning experiences.
·
Keep skills up to date by reading journal articles and books and
attending classes and conferences on practices and theory on early childhood
education.
Children
·
Treat
each child with dignity and respect.
·
Help
each child develop self-worth and a good self-image.
·
Manage
the classroom atmosphere and dynamics.
·
Provide
many opportunities for children to communicate.
·
Maintain
the confidence of the school concerning matters of child relationships.
Environment
·
Manage
the classroom to include maintaining a calm, inviting, supportive environment
for the children and visitors.
·
Care
for and maintain classroom materials
·
Keep the room clean and empty the trashcans each night. Take laundry to kitchen after afternoon
snack.
·
Clean up after snacks, lunches, and crafts.
·
Care for and feed classroom plants and animals
Parents
·
Encourage
parents to observe and participate in the program.
·
Communicate
regularly with parents.
·
Team
with parents in the education and guidance of their children.
Staff
·
Work
with and communicate appropriately with the entire staff to develop a smooth
educational process and experience for the children.
·
Team
with Teachers.
·
Participate
in staff meetings, training programs and other Sage Cottage activities.
·
Refrain
from gossip and keep sensitive matters in confidence.
Health and Safety
·
Ensure for the safety of the children at all times.
·
Inform the Director of any unusual or suspicious situation with
any Sage Cottage student, including suspected physical, sexual, or emotional
abuse.
·
Maintain child-teacher ratios at all times.
·
Follow the Sage Cottage and State safety rules.
·
Be active in identifying and mitigating day-to-day safety issues.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful and positive attitude.
·
Assume responsibility for the classroom and the school.
·
Be on time to work and other Sage Cottage events.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
·
Attend all required staff meetings.
Work Environment
·
Salary As determined by the Directors
·
Paid
Personal Leave,
·
Health
Insurance Medical
and Dental offered
·
Working
Hours As
scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time 1.5 times salary over
40 hours/week
Record
Keeping
·
Work with the Lead Teacher to maintain portfolios for each child which include written observations, pictures, and
developmental checklists. of each child that includes
statements of the child’s developmental progress.
·
Maintain daily attendance records for the class.
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements. Continuing education
courses, conferences, and self-study are strongly encouraged.
Floater Job Description
Summary of
Job: A Sage Cottage Floater is
expected to be capable of helping in any classroom – all age groups. The
Floater is expected to step in for absent teachers, help with special projects,
help gather or create classroom materials, and help the Office Manager as
requested. The floater must be adept as a teacher of young children; be a sensitive,
loving, mature individual who is able to relate well with both children and
adults.
Requirements: Must have a High School
diploma or GED and have completed “The 45 hour entry level class”
or be willing and able to complete the class within 6 months. Must maintain the annual
state continuing education requirements.
Work Schedule: As determined by
children’s schedules, Director, Office Manager, and posted on the daily
work schedule list.
Major Duties:
Major duties include, but are not limited to:
Curriculum
·
Implement the daily program, gearing it to the needs
of the individual child with concerns
for his/her interests, disabilities, special talents and individual style and
pace of learning.
·
Give children a variety of learning experiences.
·
Keep skills up to date by reading journal articles and books and
attending classes and conferences on practices and theory on early childhood
education.
Children
·
Treat
each child with dignity and respect.
·
Help
each child develop self-worth and a good self-image.
·
Manage
the classroom atmosphere and dynamics.
·
Provide
many opportunities for children to communicate.
·
Maintain
the confidence of the school concerning matters of child relationships.
Environment
·
Manage
the classroom to include maintaining a calm, inviting, supportive environment
for the children and visitors.
·
Care
for and maintain classroom materials
·
Keep the room clean and empty the trashcans each night. Take laundry to kitchen after afternoon
snack.
·
Clean up after snacks, lunches, and crafts.
·
Care for and feed classroom plants and animals
Parents
·
Encourage
parents to observe and participate in the program.
·
Communicate
regularly with parents.
·
Team
with parents in the education and guidance of their children.
Staff
·
Work
with and communicate appropriately with the entire staff to develop a smooth
educational process and experience for the children.
·
Team
with fellow staff.
·
Participate
in staff meetings, training programs and other Sage Cottage activities.
·
Refrain
from gossip and keep sensitive matters in confidence.
Health and Safety
·
Ensure for the safety of the children at all times.
·
Inform the Director of any unusual or suspicious situation with
any Sage Cottage student, including suspected physical, sexual, or emotional
abuse.
·
Maintain child-teacher ratios at all times.
·
Follow the Sage Cottage and State safety rules.
·
Be active in identifying and mitigating day-to-day safety issues.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful and positive attitude.
·
Assume responsibility for the classroom and the school.
·
Be on time to work and other Sage Cottage events.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
·
Attend all required staff meetings.
Work Environment
·
Salary
As determined by the Directors
·
Paid
Personal Leave,
·
Health
Insurance Medical
and Dental offered
·
Working
Hours As
scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time 1.5 times salary over
40 hours/week
Record
Keeping
·
When working in a classroom, maintain daily attendance records for
the class.
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements. Continuing education
courses, conferences, and self-study are strongly encouraged.
Custodian Job Description
The Custodian is to clean the school regularly as arranged
by the Director.
Cleaning will be done after hours or on the weekend as
agreed between the Custodian and Director..
1.
Vacuum
carpet in all rooms. Prior to vacuuming,
pick up all rocks, beads, or other small objects that will damage the vacuum
cleaner. Periodically sweep along shelf
edge with broom prior to vacuuming. Once a month check the vacuum cleaner bag
and replace as necessary.
2.
Sweep
& damp mop all floor surfaces.
3.
Clean
all 4 bathrooms and Infant sink. (1 in Toddler Classroom, 1 in Early Childhood
Classroom, 2 in Transition Classroom).
·
Sweep
and mop floors.
·
Scour
sinks & toilets.
·
Refill
paper towel holders as necessary.
·
Empty
trashcans.
·
Fill
soap dispensers.
4.
Clean
windows and mirrors with Windex.
5.
Special
as-needed jobs:
·
Dusting
(Shelves and windowsills).
·
Base
board cleaning.
·
Anything
else to maintain a clean facility.
Substitute Teacher Job Description
Summary of Job: The substitute
teacher at Sage Cottage fills in for the sick or absent teacher and under most
circumstances will work with a second regularly scheduled teacher in the
classroom. The job of the substitute is
one of flexibility, but primarily he/she is there to provide a safe and
nurturing environment for the child and to assist the regular staff member with
classroom management.
Requirements: Must have a High School
diploma or GED. Completion of “The 45 hour
entry level class” is desired. Must maintain the annual state continuing education requirements as
outlined for part-time substitutes.
Work Schedule: When called and agrees to
work.
Major Duties: Major duties include, but are not
limited to:
Curriculum
·
Work with the regular classroom teacher to implement
the daily program, gearing it to the needs of the individual child with concerns for his/her interests,
disabilities, special talents and individual style and pace of learning.
·
Give children a variety of learning experiences.
·
Keep skills up to date by reading journal articles and books and
attending classes and conferences on practices and theory on early childhood
education.
Children
·
Treat
each child with dignity and respect.
·
Help
each child develop self-worth and a good self-image.
·
Manage
the classroom atmosphere and dynamics.
·
Provide
many opportunities for children to communicate.
·
Maintain
the confidence of the school concerning matters of child relationships.
Environment
·
Manage
the classroom to include maintaining a calm, inviting, supportive environment
for the children and visitors.
·
Care
for and maintain classroom materials
·
Keep the room clean and empty the trashcans each night.
·
Clean up after snacks, lunches, and crafts.
Parents
·
Encourage
parents to observe and participate in the program.
·
Communicate
regularly with parents.
Staff
·
Work
with and communicate appropriately with the entire staff to develop a smooth
educational process and experience for the children.
·
Team
with Teachers.
·
Invited
and encouraged to participate in staff meetings, training programs and other
Sage Cottage activities.
·
Refrain
from gossip and keep sensitive matters in confidence.
Health and Safety
·
Ensure for the safety of the children at all times.
·
Inform the Director of any unusual or suspicious situation with
any Sage Cottage student, including suspected physical, sexual, or emotional
abuse.
·
Maintain child-teacher ratios at all times.
·
Follow the Sage Cottage and State safety rules.
·
Be active in identifying and mitigating day-to-day safety issues.
Work Habits
·
Have a cheerful and positive attitude.
·
Assume responsibility for the classroom and the school.
·
Follow Sage Cottage policies and procedures.
Work Environment
·
Salary As determined by the Directors
·
Paid
Personal Leave, Holidays none
·
Health
Insurance none
·
Working
Hours As
scheduled
·
Overtime/Compensatory
Time 1.5 times salary over
40 hours/week
Record
Keeping
·
Maintain daily attendance records for the class.
Training Requirements
·
At the minimum, must maintain CYFD continuing education
requirements as outlined for part-time Substitutes. Continuing education courses, conferences,
and self-study are strongly encouraged.
Aide in Training (AIT) Information Sheet
Name: Age/Grade Completed
Address:
Phone:
Parent/Guardian:
Question: Why would you like to be an "Aide in
Training" at Sage Cottage?
GUIDELINES
1.
Age Requirement: The
AIT must be 12 to 15 years of age, and have completed the YMCAs Red Cross Baby
Sitting course.
2.
Each individual will
be reviewed as to whether he/she is a good candidate to be an Aide in Training and will be assigned
a primary Teacher as his/her mentor.
3.
The Cottage Director,
mentor Teacher, and the AIT will agree upon the AIT’s work schedule. The
Director is responsible for going over rules, guidelines, and expectations with
the AIT, orienting the AIT to the Cottage layout, supplies, and introducing to
other Cottage staff.
4.
AITs may only touch
children in positive, appropriate ways; tying shoes, combing hair, putting
sunscreen on, holding a hand, holding a child on his/her lap when reading to
them, etc.
5.
AITs may not be left
alone with any child, may not assist a child in the restroom, may not change
diapers, kiss, lift, bandage or clean cuts, or administer first-aid.
6.
AITs will be limited
to no more than 1 per classroom.
7.
The AIT may work no
more than 3 hours per day during his/her school year, and no more than 24 hours
per week during school break periods.
Policies
Accidents/Incidents
All accidents,
injuries and incidents must be documented using the Accident or Incident Report
Form. If a child is injured or involved
in an accident requiring treatment beyond standard first aid, the staff member
in charge should notify the Director, who will then notify the child’s
parents or other emergency contact if the parents cannot be reached. The incident must be documented using the
Accident Report Form and the form placed in the child’s file. If the accident is of a severe nature, CYFD
will be contacted to report the incident.
Accidents
involving teachers require that a First Report of Accident be completed and for
the teacher to seek medical attention (if necessary) from the preferred
provider according to the school’s Workmen’s Compensation Policy. If the accident causes severe injury, call
911 or have them seek medical attention immediately, and then complete the
First Report of Accident.
Incidents are situations such as child abuse,
missing child, or behavioral issues (biting, hitting, etc.). When a child hurts a classmate, this is
considered a behavioral issue and an incident report needs to be completed for
that child. An accident report is then
completed for the child who was hurt.
The child who was the victim should be kept anonymous on the incident
report and the child who was the instigator should remain anonymous on the
accident report. This protects both
children and parents from awkward encounters that may arise due to the
behaviors of their children.
Classroom Observations
Sage Cottage has an open door policy and
encourages parents to become involved and to observe their child’s
class. Montessori is a philosophy of
observation, and what better way to gain support at home than through observation.
Child
Protection
It is the number one responsibility of all
staff to monitor the well being and protection of all children at Sage Cottage.
The Sage Cottage policy is that classrooms are staffed with two personnel where
possible as a two person control system to maximize the protection and safety
of the children.
Abuse/Neglect
All suspected child abuse must be documented
on an incident report, kept on file, and reported to the CYFD.
Missing
child
In the unlikely event that a child is discovered missing from school, the school will go into immediate lock-down. Designated teachers/aids/parents will be stationed at each entrance/exit area. A designated person(s) will search the area around the school. The Director will contact the parent, guardian, or emergency contact person. The local police and CYFD will be notified immediately.
Classroom Snacks
Infant
Classroom and Toddler Classroom
Families are to provide all foods the child
will eat each day. A basket in the
Toddler classroom is provided to put the food in. Infant classroom places their food in the
refrigerator where their child’s name is written. Parents
need to provide a training/sipper cup with their child’s name written on
it in permanent ink.
Transition
Classroom and Early Childhood Classroom
Families take turns providing simple,
nutritious snacks for their child's class.
A snack schedule is posted in the class. Parents shall sign up for snack
twice a month per child. The State of
Snack Suggestions
· Fruits (cut to child's
finger size)
· Fruit Cups
· Tortillas w/cheese, cream
cheese or jelly
· Raisins (plain or yogurt
covered)
· Different baked breads or
bagels (banana, raisin, carrot)
· Crackers such as Triscuit, or whole grain
· Nutritious cookies and
muffins (oatmeal, carob, fig)
· Yogurt
· Cheese cubes, string cheese
· Cream Cheese w/bagels
· Apples
· Applesauce
· Granola
· Sandwiches: cut into fourths - peanut butter, cheese,
etc., on various kinds of bread
Clothing
Although Sage Cottage does not have a strict
dress code for children, we expect children to be dressed appropriately. Play clothes are encouraged; simple,
washable, sturdy, and easy-to-manage. Messy activities will be taking
place, so do not dress them in special clothes. Pants and jeans are
preferred and non-slip, closed toe shoes are advised.
Plan on outdoor play whatever the
weather may be. It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure their children are dressed in
appropriate winter clothing--snow pants and jackets, hats, mittens and snow
boots. Children without the proper attire may be restricted from playground activities.
Please provide a change of clothing for children in the Transition and
Early Childhood classrooms and 2 changes for the children in Infant/Toddler
classroom. We do keep a few articles of
clothing at school in case of emergency, and request that they be returned
laundered after use. Please label all clothing.
Complaints/Grievances
Complaints and grievances by parents or staff
should be reported to the Director right away.
In the event the complaint or grievance requires a policy or staff
change, the Director will address the Board to come up with the appropriate
action.
Addendum’s to the Parent Handbook
and/or the Staff Manual will be made and issued accordingly.
Confidentiality
Policy
Family and staff information will not be
discussed with other parents or staff.
This information is confidential!
Never discuss a child's progress in front of the child when talking to
staff or parents. It is contrary to the
interest of the school and the children we serve to give out information
regarding children, parents, or staff.
Such information should be held in strict confidence and should not be
discussed with anyone outside of the school.
Inside the school, such information should be discussed only when it
will benefit the care we offer the children and the parent. Refer any inquiries on children, their
performance, and parent information to the Director.
Conferences
& Communication with Parents
Conferences are scheduled at least two times
each year, once during the Fall and again during the
Spring. Conferences are used for
reporting and communicating with parents and are an important aspect of the
complete education process. Interim
conferences can be arranged through the Teacher or Director to discuss issues
that require immediate attention.
Disaster Preparedness
If an accident or
attack that creates contaminated air occurs in the nearby area the following
steps will be followed:
- Remain calm and keep students calm.
- Bring students, faculty and staff
indoors.
- Close the school.
- If visitors/parents are in the building,
provide for their safety by asking them to stay.
- A designated person will answer school
calls.
- A designated person will call parents.
- The voice mail will be changed to indicate
that the school is closed and students and staff are remaining in the
building until authority advises that is it safe to leave.
- Close all windows and doors and shut
down the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This will create a neutral pressure in
the building, meaning the contaminated air would not be drawn into the
building.
- Select interior rooms with the fewest
windows or vents.
- Bring everyone into the room(s). Shut and lock the door(s).
- Write down the names of everyone in the
room, and call the police department to notify them of where you are and
who is in the room with you.
- Listen for an official announcement from
the Los Alamos Police Department for decisions that will come for the
Parents may be concerned that, during a shelter-in-place activity, they
couldn't pick up their children and might be separated from them for long
periods of time. If parents show up at
the school, they will be encouraged to shelter-in-place at the school. It is not Sage Cottage's intention to keep
the children from their parents, but to keep the children as safe as possible
during a disastrous situation. We are
merely endeavoring to keep your children safe for the parents until it is safe
for the parents to come and pick them up.
In the event we need to evacuate the building we will be walking to
either
Discipline
We work to promote self-discipline and encourage the
children to assume personal responsibility for their actions. We teach respect for property and others and
encourage fair play. When rules are not
followed, or a child is hurting or interfering with other children, logical
consequences are imposed. The consequences are made clear and understandable
to the child; and are explained to the child before and at the time of the
action.
The following
methods are used when disciplining a child:
- The
actions of the child are criticized, not the personality.
- Careful
physical restraint (bear hug) is permitted when a child is out of
control.
- The
child is provided opportunity to express and define his/her feelings.
- The
child may be removed from participating in the activity until the problem
is solved or resolved.
- The
child may be kept at the side of an adult until he/she calms down and
appears cooperative.
- The
child may be asked to sit somewhere within the classroom, isolated from
activity, until he/she is ready to resolve the problem.
- When
the whole classroom is being disrupted, the child may be removed and asked
to sit with the Director until he/she is ready to return.
All discipline shall be carried out with respect for the dignity and self-esteem of those involved. The Teacher is responsible for informing parents about unacceptable behavior on the day it occurs.
The objective at Sage Cottage for all behavior issues is to understand the child and teach the child proper strategies to cope with situations he/she will face throughout life. Should the situation become ongoing (each child/situation is unique, so defining a time frame is not possible) the Teacher and Director may request a meeting with the parent(s) to discuss the behavior problems. The goal is to identify inconsistencies between home and school, and develop a joint plan on how to change the behavior. It is an opportunity for exchanging ideas on how to best help the child.
If the child’s behavior still remains unacceptable, Sage Cottage reserves the right to withdraw the child from the program and terminate the contract with the parents or guardians.
The following
disciplinary practices are prohibited at Sage Cottage:
- Physical
punishment
- Withdrawal of food, rest, or bathroom
opportunities
- Abusive or profane language
- Any form of public or private humiliation
including threats of physical punishment that is hazardous to the physical
or mental health of the child.
Emergencies
In the event of an accident or sudden onset
of illness, the School will not hesitate to seek proper care for a child,
staff, or parent. In the case of a
child, the parent will be called immediately after first aid is given and 911 is called if required.
If the parent cannot be reached, then calls will be made to the
emergency numbers indicated on the child’s enrollment form. If these persons are not available, the
child's doctor will be called and if necessary 911 will be called to transport
the child for medical services.
For this reason we require you to sign the emergency release statement on the application, before the child enters school. The consent statement that you signed will accompany the child so that treatment can be given immediately in your absence.
All
accidents requiring some kind of medical attention are documented and signed by
parents, as well as staff on duty and placed in your child's file, as per State
requirements. CYFD (Children, Youth and Families Department) will also be notified of
all incidents revolving care of a child off property.
In the event of an emergency with a staff member, emergency contacts from the form in their file will be contacted. In the event of a parent who may have an emergency situation, we will ascertain who needs to be notified for them, and proceed with whatever first aid is required in the situation.
Emergency
Kit and Supplies
The
following is a list of items contained in the Sage Cottage Emergency Kit and
supplies kept on hand in case of a shelter-in-place disaster:
- Copies of all contact list - name, phone
number and email as well as information or someone preferable
out-of-state, or at least out of the immediate area. Phone numbers and emails for immediate
supervisor.
- Flashlights with extra batteries - Long
life, emergency flashlights.
- Battery-operated radio and extra
batteries - AM/FM, Weather band/TV band
- Manual can-opener
- First Aid Kit - Add gloves and Kleenex
- Notepad and pens/pencils
- Scissors
- Hand-Sanitizer and Cleansing
Agent/Disinfectant
- Whistle
- Disposable Cups
- Wet Wipes
- Water
- Non-Perishable food items like soft
granola bars, cereal, cheese and crackers, cans of fruit, special infant
items, etc. - should be nut-free in case of allergies.
- Extra supplies of critical medication
such as insulin, epi-pens, etc. for children and
staff
Each
child should have - a change of seasonally appropriate clothing, a blanket,
extra formula (one-day supply as space allows) and extra diapers (one-day
supply as space allows).
Evacuation
Building evacuation will be signaled by the Director or designee
sounding the fire alarm. An emergency
evacuation map is prominently displayed in all classrooms, showing routes to
follow during a fire drill or actual fire.
Fire drills will be conducted monthly.
All children, staff and visitors are required to leave the building by
the safest route and go to the assigned area.
The lead teacher will take the attendance sheet and first aid kit, and
leave with children and any volunteers or visitors. The aide, assistant teacher or director
should check classrooms and bathrooms to ensure no children are remaining,
close outside doors (but do not lock), and follow others out of the
building. The lead teachers should ensure
that all children are accounted for.
Staff should keep children calm and quiet and await further
instructions. When/if it is safe to
return to the building the Director or alternate will inform the lead teachers
to return.
Field Trips
Field trips will be announced in advance, and
all children must have a signed permission form on file at the School before
participating. We will typically ask for
parent participation/help with field trips.
Health, Sickness, and
Medication
Health, Sickness, and Medication
State Law requires that all children be
properly immunized before entering school. Staff members will only administer
topical medications, ointments, and creams (sunscreen, diaper rash ointment,
teething gel …) and only after having a signed medication form on-file. All medications must be in the original
container.
The one medication exception will be an epi-pen for a highly allergic child. Staff will continue to be trained in allergy
awareness and the use of an epi-pen. Should we have a child who potentially needs
an epi-pen, it will be
stored in a locked container in the child’s classroom.
Staff
and children both get sick. Staff who become ill during school hours will be required to
leave. When they are no longer in danger
of passing the illness onto the children, they will be allowed to return to
school.
Children who become sick at school must be
separated from the other children until the parent(s) arrive to remove the
child from the school. The staff
monitors the children closely to determine whether a fever is teething or
immunization related before calling the parents to pickup
the child. Parents will be notified of
any fever or behavior which indicates the child is not feeling well. The child
will be sent home if the armpit temperature is 100.4o F or greater,
or if the child shows signs of illness.
Children are not to be brought to school if any of the following
symptoms are present within the previous 24 hours:
1. Fever (temperature over 100.4o F)
2. Unexplained rash
3. Severe cough
4. Discharge of green mucous from the nose
5. Diarrhea
6. Vomiting
7. Sore throat
8. Swollen or crusted eyes
9. Acute body aches (i.e. headache, stomach
ache)
10. Open sores on the body
Incident Notification
Staff
will notify the Director (who will notify Children Youth and Families
Department where appropriate) of any incident that has or could threaten the
health and safety of children and staff members. An incident report will be filed in these
circumstances. Parents or their
emergency contacts as well as the CYFD will be contacted in all of these
examples:
·
A lost
or missing child
·
The
death of a child
·
Sexual
or physical abuse of a child
·
Accidents,
illness, or injuries that require medical care beyond on-site first aid (pay
particular attention to head bumps and concussions)
·
Fire,
flood or natural disaster
·
Any of
the illnesses on the current list of Notifiable
Diseases and Communicable Diseases.
·
Any
legal action against a staff member related to the care and custody of children
Lunch
Please pack a well-balanced nutritional meal, excluding candy and other highly sugared food, and foods which could pose a choking hazard (e.g. popcorn, nuts, whole grapes, hard candy, cherries with pits, …) and excessive quantities of additives and preservatives. All food is to be ready for the child to eat; pre-cut, mixed, peeled, etc. (Please slice grapes, hotdogs, string cheese, and carrots lengthwise; peel oranges and eggs.) Please be sure to LABEL all containers and the lunch box.
Refrigeration is available as well as warming for the children’s lunch. We do not allow the children to touch, share or eat anything from their classmates lunches. In the event a lunch is forgotten, we will inform the parents so arrangements can be made. We will assist the children with eating and enjoy the opportunity to teach and model grace and courtesy.
Please keep portions small, as we encourage children to eat their protein, fruit, and/or vegetables, in that order. Judge portions by what remains in the lunch boxes after school (uneaten portions are put back in the lunch boxes).
Fridays at Sage Cottage are pizza days. Pizza may be purchased by the slice at a cost of $1.50 per slice. Sign-up is done in each classroom and the money must be in by 9:30 am Friday morning. The pizza is picked up and distributed to the children at lunchtime.
Napping
ChildCare Licensing requires all children under age 6
attending school for more than five (5) hours be allowed a nap or rest
period. Each child will have a
designated mat or day bed and clearly labeled linens so there is no duplicate
use of the linens between washings.
Parent Participation
Each parent is a vital part of the school as
a whole. We encourage parents and
families to spend time at the school and participate in scheduled Family
activities. We have an open-door policy, please feel
free to drop in at any time. Volunteers
are encouraged in areas of classroom support (assisting teachers, special
program and field trip support), and buildings and grounds work parties. Parents are invited to assist the school in
fund raising activities for the purchase of new school equipment, and school
social and educational events. If you
are willing to help in any way, please call the school office to volunteer.
Mail Folders
Sage Cottage uses parent mail folders to communicate with families. You will find our monthly newsletter, children’s progress reports, invoices, handouts, etc. Please check your mail folder on a daily basis.
Classroom Participation
Most all Parents have a talent, career or hobby that would be interesting to the children. We encourage you to make arrangements with the class Teacher to set up a time to share this information with the children. Parents are also encouraged to share anything they may have to aid in our different curriculum studies.
Information from home
In the event that a significant change occurs in your home, please
inform the Director or Lead Teacher as soon as possible. All information will be regarded as
confidential. We will accept your
judgment as to the kinds of changes, which may affect your child's behavior,
security, and general well being. Common
causes of distress include: either or both parents being away from home for any
reason for an extended time; new person living in the home; illness or
hospitalization within the family; new sibling; accident or death in the
family; new caretaker; new employment; moving; death of a pet; and, parent
separation and divorce. In return, the
Teacher/Director will keep you informed of any significant changes in the
school environment, which may affect your child.
School Philosophy
Respect for the children includes a positive,
optimistic attitude about children, a cooperative spirit, a nurturing of
independence, recognition of unique individuality, trust in the child's work,
finding the right activity, and listening to and observing in order to follow
the child. One should avoid sarcasm,
teasing, over-reacting to misbehavior, and inferred reward and punishment. When making presentations, the child's
interest level should be considered so that the teacher stops before the child
tires. Phrasing of instructions should
be direct and to the point. When communicating with the child the adult should come down to the
child's height.
Lessons
will be given to children BEFORE they formally use the equipment. All materials may be used by the children for
exploring concepts as long as they are learning a positive aspect and not
damaging the equipment.
Respect
and courtesy will be HIGHLY emphasized in the curriculum, through role playing
activities and staff modeling..
A
calm, quiet atmosphere will be maintained at all times by BOTH the teachers and
children. The teacher’s voice
should never be heard over the children.
Outside
time will be included each day. The
playground will be supervised at ALL TIMES with the proper ratio of adults to
children. The staff must place
themselves at the opposite areas of the playground and not engage in
conversation with other staff members while on duty. The intent of the playground is to provide
large muscle development, through constructive play. Staff should help initiate activities such as
ball catching, hopping, jumping, etc.
No
child may be left unattended in a room for any reason.
Birthdays are considered a special event for
each child and are individually celebrated.
Snow
Days - School Cancellation
Student Admissions and
Discharge
Admission into the school is handled by the
Directors. Sage Cottage accepts students
on a first come first served basis and without regard to race, color, or
religion, etc. The enrollment procedure
is:
1. Telephone interview
2. Observation of a class by the parents
3. Enrollment application submitted
4. Tuition Deposit submitted
The Directors handle discharge of a child
from the school. The procedure to be followed regarding child behavior is
contained in the disciplinary section of this manual
Sage Cottage expects respect between the
staff and families. Should a family
member display inappropriate or abusive behavior towards any of the staff, Sage
Cottage reserves the right to disenroll the student.
Sage Cottage tries to work with families experiencing
financial difficulties. However, the
school cannot sustain without paying its bills. Sage Cottage reserves the right to disenroll
a student who is more than 30-days behind in tuition payment.
Student Attendance &
Absences
Attendance records are required by law and it
is the parents’ responsibility to sign their child in and out each
day. If your child is going to be
absent, kindly contact the school at 672-0534 prior to class time as to the
cause. If you have verification of the
fact that your child has a notifiable disease, please
call the school immediately so a note may be posted to inform other
parents. The licensing division has
strict regulations regarding children attending school while ill. We
reserve the right to send your child home should we make the judgment he/she is either contagious or too
ill to function adequately in class.
Student Pick-up and Drop-Off
The school hours of
operation are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is imperative that arrival and dismissal
times be closely adhered to. The time
before class is vital for teacher preparation to ensure a smooth and productive
day, and our staffing is set based on contracted hours. Children will not be admitted before 7:30
a.m. We ask that children contracted
to arrive at Sage by 8:30 a.m. please arrive no earlier than 8:30
a.m. It is equally important that the
children do not arrive late. The first
activity in each class is group time and it is very disruptive to the class and
the child when he arrives late or misses the group altogether. Children who arrive late and are picked up
late are often stressed and feel awkward and uncomfortable.
Children are to be taken to their class and
signed-in by the parent or guardian, and when picked up, signed-out by the
parent or guardian. If a child is not
signed-in/out, the teachers must do it to keep an accurate
records. Children must not be
released to anyone who is not on the Child’s Pick-up authorization
form. If a staff member is uncertain of
an individual’s identity, she/he must ask that person for
identification. If positive
identification cannot be made, the child MUST NOT be
allowed to go home with that individual.
If a parent phones in authorization to the school, it is up to the
discretion of the Director to release the child.
The parking lot at the
school can be very active. We ask that
when dropping your child off and picking your child up that you take the time
to turn off your car. Please be courteous and drive slowly around the parking
lot. It is small and can be congested,
especially in the morning and evening.
Student Rules & Manners
1. The
rules of the playground are:
a) The
sandbox toys are used only in the sandbox
b) Digging
with the sandbox toys in other areas is not allowed
c) There
will be no rock, sand, or stick throwing
d) There
will be no climbing or sitting on any fence
e) Tricycles
and bikes are to be ridden on the cement slab.
They are to be parked when not in use
f) The
slides will be used for sliding -- not running up
g) There
will be no standing, jumping or tipping over of the picnic tables
h) There
will be no gun shooting or tackling allowed
i) Spitting
or hitting is not allowed
j) No
one is to destroy another student’s creative work
2. The
rules and manners for lunch are:
a) Stay
seated
b) No
food sharing
c) No
candy or gum
d) All
uneaten food goes back in lunchbox
e) Eat
with mouth closed
f) Don't
talk with food in mouth
g) Appropriate
conversation for meal time
h) Minimal
(Appropriate) burping
3. The
rules and manners of the classroom are:
a) Respect
others (do unto others as you would have them do unto you)
b) Respect
yourself (do your very best at everything you do)
c) Respect
the classroom (use items for their intended purpose)
d)
No
running or yelling inside the school
Schedule A - School Calendar
2010/2011 School Calendar
JUN ( 22) JUL (22) AUG (21) SEP (21)
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OCT ( 20) NOV (18) DEC (13) JAN (20)
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FEB (18) MAR (19) APR (20) MAY (20)
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Closures and
Activities:
v New enrollment session
begins June 1
v June 17 - Father’s
Day Snack Fest, Time TBA
v July 5 – school closed for Independence Day Holiday
v August 16 – LAPS
classes begin
v August 27 – school closed for Staff In-service day
v
September 6 – school closed
for Labor Day Holiday
v
September 9 – Open House. Teachers describe curriculum
to families
v
September 17 - school closes at 4pm
for Staff In-service
v
October 11 – school closed
for Columbus Day Holiday
v
November 1 - 5 - Parent/Teacher Conferences
v
November 11 – school closed
for Veteran’s Day Holiday
v
November 24, 25, 26 -
school closed for Thanksgiving Holidays
v
December 20 through 31 – school closed
for Winter Break
v
January 17 – school closed
for Martin Luther King Holiday
v
February 11 – school closed
for Staff In-Service day
v
February 14 – school closed
for Presidents’ Holiday
v
February 23 & 24 - Parent Nights for Transition &
Early Childhood
v
March 22 - 26 – Parent/Teacher Conferences
v
March 28 – April 1 – school closed for Spring Break.
v May 5 - Mother’s Tea,
Time TBA
v May 27 – school closed for Staff In-service day
v May 30 – school closed for Memorial Day
SCHOOL CLOSED SCHOOL CLOSES @ 4 PM ACTIVITES SCHEDULED
Schedule B - State
Regulations for Licensed Child Care Facilities
The latest State Regulations can be found at:
http://www.newmexicokids.org/caregivers/
State of
TITLE 8
SOCIAL SERVICES
CHAPTER 16 CHILD CARE LICENSING
PART
2
CHILD CARE CENTERS, OUT OF SCHOOL TIME PROGRAMS, FAMILY CHILD
CARE HOMES, AND OTHER EARLY CARE AND EDUCATION PROGRAMS
8.16.2.1
ISSUING AGENCY: Children,
Youth and Families Department (CYFD).
[8.16.2.1 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.1 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.2
SCOPE: All child care
centers, out of school time programs, family child care homes, and other early
care and education programs within the state of New Mexico.
[8.16.2.2 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.2 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.3
STATUTORY AUTHORITY: The
regulations set forth herein, which govern the licensing of facilities
providing child care to children, have been promulgated by the secretary of the
New Mexico children, youth and families department, by authority of the
Children, Youth and Families Department Act, Section 9-2A-1 to 9-2A-16 NMSA
1978, and Sections 24-1-2 (D), 24-1-3 (I) and 24-1-5 of the Public Health Act,
Sections 24-1-1 to 24-1-22, NMSA 1978, as amended.
[8.16.2.3 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.3 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.4
DURATION: Permanent.
[8.16.2.4 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.4 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.5
EFFECTIVE DATE: June 30,
2010 unless a later date is cited at the end of section.
[8.16.2.5 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.5 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.6
OBJECTIVE: The objective of 8.16.2
NMAC is to establish standards and procedures for the licensing of facilities
and providers who provide child care to children within New Mexico. These
standards and procedures are intended to: establish minimum requirements for
licensing facilities providing non-residential care to children in order to
protect the health, safety, and development of the children; monitor facility
compliance with these regulations through surveys to identify any areas that
could be dangerous or harmful to the children or staff members; monitor and
survey out of school time programs; and encourage the establishment and
maintenance of child care centers, homes and facilities for children that
provide a humane, safe, and developmentally appropriate environment. These
regulations apply during all hours of operation for child care centers, homes
and out of school time programs.
[8.16.2.6 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.6 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.7
DEFINITIONS:
A.
“Abuse” means any act or failure to act, performed intentionally,
knowingly or recklessly, which causes or is likely to cause harm to a child,
including:
(1) physical contact that
harms or is likely to harm a child;
(2) inappropriate use of a
physical restraint, isolation, medication or other means that harms or is
likely to harm a child; and
(3) an unlawful act, a threat
or menacing conduct directed toward a child that results or might be expected
to result in fear or emotional or mental distress to a child.
B.
“Activity area” means space for children’s activities where
related equipment and materials are accessible to the children.
C.
“Adult” means a person who has a chronological age of 18 years or
older.
D. “AIM
HIGH” is a voluntary quality child care improvement program that is open
to all registered and licensed child care providers.
E.
“Assessment of children’s progress” means children’s
progress is assessed informally on a continuous basis using a series of brief
anecdotal records (descriptions of the child’s behavior or skills in
given situations). Children’s progress also can be assessed formally at
least twice a year using a developmental checklist (checklist of behaviors that
indicate physical, motor, language, cognitive, social and emotional
development/progress).
F.
“Attended” means the physical presence of a caregiver supervising
children under care. Merely being within eyesight or hearing of the
children does not meet the intent of this definition (See Supervision,
Subsection FFF, 8.16.2.7 NMAC).
G.
“Capacity” means the maximum number of children a licensed child
care facility can care for at any one time.
H.
“Caregiver” means an adult who directly cares for, serves, and
supervises children in a licensed child care facility.
I.
“Child” means a person who is under the chronological age of 18
years.
J.
“Child care center” means a facility required to be licensed under these regulations that provides care, services, and
supervision for less than 24-hours a day to children. A child care center
is in a non-residential setting and meets the applicable state and local
building and safety codes.
K.
“Class A deficiency” means any abuse or neglect of a child by a
facility employee or volunteer for which the facility is responsible, which
results in death or serious physical or psychological harm; or a violation or
group of violations of applicable regulations, which results in death, serious
physical harm, or serious psychological harm to a child.
L.
“Class B deficiency” means any abuse or neglect of a child by a
facility employee or volunteer for which the facility is responsible; or a
violation or group of violations of applicable regulations which present a
potential risk of injury or harm to any child.
M. “Class C
deficiency” means a violation or group of violations of applicable
regulations as cited by surveyors from the licensing authority which have the
potential to cause injury or harm to any child if the violation is not
corrected.
N.
“Core hours” means the daily hours of operation of the center.
O.
“Curriculum” is what happens every day in the classroom and on the
playground. It includes every aspect of the daily program. Curriculum derives
from the program’s mission statement, philosophy (which, in turn, is
based on assumptions about young children’s development and learning),
and program goals and objectives. It includes how materials and equipment are
used, activities that children and adults participate in, and interactions
among children and between children and adults.
P.
“Deficiency” means a violation of these regulations.
Q.
“Direct provider of care” means any individual who, as a result of
employment or contractual service or volunteer service has direct care
responsibilities or potential unsupervised physical access to any care recipient
in the settings to which these regulations apply.
R.
“Director” means the person in charge of the day-to-day operation
and program of a child care center.
S.
“Drop-in” means a child who attends a child care facility on an
occasional or unscheduled basis.
T.
“Environment” means that the environment meets all required local,
state, and federal regulations. It includes space (both indoors and outdoors)
with appropriate equipment and materials that encourage children to engage in
hands-on learning.
U.
“Exploitation” of a child consists of the act or process, performed
intentionally, knowingly, or recklessly, of using a child’s property for
another person’s profit, advantage or benefit without legal entitlement
to do so.
V.
“Facility” means any premises licensed under these regulations
where children receive care, services, and supervision (can be a center, home,
program, or other site where children receive childcare).
W. “Family
child care home” means a private dwelling required to be licensed under these regulations that provides care, services and
supervision for a period of less than 24 hours of any day for at least five but
no more than six children. A family child care home intending to provide
care for more than two but not to exceed four children under the age of two
must be specifically licensed for this purpose. The licensee will reside in the
home and be the primary care giver.
X.
“Group child care home” means a home required to be licensed
pursuant to these regulations, which provides care, services, and supervision
for at least seven but not more than 12 children. The licensee will
reside in the home and be the primary care giver.
Y.
“Guidance” means fostering a child’s ability to become
self-disciplined. Guidance shall be consistent and developmentally appropriate.
Z.
“Home” means a private residence and its premises licensed under
these regulations where children receive care, services, and supervision. The
licensee will reside in the home and be the primary care giver.
AA.
“Infant” means a child age six weeks to 12 months.
BB.
“License” means a document issued by CYFD to a child care facility
licensed and governed by these regulations and granting the legal right to
operate for a specified period of time, not to exceed one year.
CC.
“Licensee” means the person(s) who, or organization which, has
ownership, leasehold, or similar interest in the child care facility and in
whose name the license for the child care facility has been issued and who is
legally responsible for compliance with these regulations.
DD.
“Licensing authority” means the child care services bureau -
licensing section of the early childhood services division of the New Mexico
children, youth and families department which has been granted the
responsibility for the administration and enforcement of these regulations by
authority of Children, Youth and Families Department Act, Section 9-2A-1 to
9-2A-16 NMSA 1978, as amended.
EE.
“Mission statement,” describes what the program aspires to do and
whom the program aspires to serve.
FF.
“National accreditation status” means the achievement and
maintenance of accreditation status by an accrediting body that has been
approved by CYFD. Approval of an applicant accrediting body by CYFD is
pursuant to procedures established by CYFD and requires, at a minimum, that the
applicant accrediting body meets the following criteria: 1) is national in
scope and practice; 2) has a process to ensure that interim quality is
maintained by the accredited entity; 3) meets or exceeds the standards of one
of the following national accrediting bodies: the national association for the
education of young children (NAEYC) academy for early childhood program
accreditation; the national early childhood program accreditation (NECPA); the
national association of family child care (NAFCC), the national child care
association (NCCA); the council of accreditation (COA); the national
accreditation commission for early care and education programs (NAC); the
international Christian accrediting association (ICAA); or the association of
Christian schools international (ACSI); and 4) promotes indicators of quality
which address, at a minimum, the following: staff training, director and staff
qualifications, curriculum and environment, program administration, and
staff/child ratios.
GG.
“Night care” means the care, services and supervision provided by a
licensed child care facility to children between the hours of 10:00 p.m. to
6:00 a.m.
HH.
“Neglect” means the failure to provide the common necessities
including but not limited to: food, shelter, a safe environment, education,
emotional well-being and healthcare that may result in harm to the child.
II. “Notifiable diseases” means confirmed or suspected
diseases/conditions as itemized by the New Mexico department of health which
require immediate reporting to the office of epidemiology which include but are
not limited to: measles, pertussis, food borne
illness, hepatitis and acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
JJ.
“Orientation” means a process by which the employer informs each
new employee, volunteer and substitute, in advance of assuming their duties, of
the mission, philosophy, policies, and procedures of the program, including
clear direction about performance expectations.
KK.
“Out of school time program” means a school age program at a
specific site, usually a school or community center, offering on a consistent
basis a variety of developmentally appropriate activities that are both
educational and recreational.
LL.
“Parent handbook” is a written communication tool that provides
valuable information to families of the children the program serves. It
includes all matters of relevance to family members regarding the program and
is updated annually, or as needed.
MM.
“Pest” means any living organism declared a pest pursuant to the
Pesticide Control Act.
NN.
“Pesticide” means any chemical substance or mixture of substances
intended for preventing, destroying, repelling or mitigating any pest.
OO.
“Philosophy statement” describes how the program’s mission
will be carried out. It reflects the values, beliefs, and convictions of the
program about how young children learn and describes the components of the
program that contribute to that learning. It provides the program’s perspective
on early care and education and the nature of how children learn. The
program’s philosophy is implemented through the curriculum.
PP.
“Plan of correction” means the plan submitted by the licensee
addressing how and when identified deficiencies will be corrected.
QQ.
“Policy” is a written directive that guides decision-making.
Policies form the basis for authoritative action.
RR.
“Premises” means all parts of the buildings, grounds, and equipment
of a child care facility licensed pursuant to these regulations.
SS.
“Procedure” is a series of steps to be followed, usually in a
specific order, to implement policies.
TT.
“Professional development” is an on-going plan for continued
professional development for each staff member, including the director.
UU.
“Program administrator” means the person responsible for planning
or implementing the care of children in the program. This includes but is not
limited to making contact with parents, keeping appropriate records, observing
and evaluating the child’s development, supervising staff members and
volunteers, and working cooperatively with the site director and other staff
members toward achieving program goals and objectives. (This definition applies
only to the out of school time programs child care regulations.)
VV.
“Punishment” means the touching of a child’s body with the
intent of inducing pain. This includes but is not limited to pinching,
shaking, spanking, hair or ear pulling. It also includes any action which
is intended to induce fear, shame or other emotional discomfort.
WW.
“Requirements” means the criteria and regulations developed by
children, youth and families department in 8.16.2 NMAC; to set minimum
standards of care, education and safety for the protection and enhancement of
the well-being of children receiving care, services or supervision.
XX. “Restriction”
means to control enrollment, service type, capacity, activities, or hours of
operation.
YY.
“Revocation” means the act of making a license null and void
through its cancellation.
ZZ.
“Sanction” means a measure imposed by the licensing authority for a
violation(s) of these standards.
AAA. “Staff
evaluation” means that each staff member is evaluated by the director,
using criteria from the individual’s job description. The individual
being evaluated knows ahead of time the criteria and procedures (which may
include self-evaluation) for which they are being evaluated. The director
discusses evaluation results with each staff member, and results are considered
when determining salary increments and are incorporated into the
individual’s professional development plan.
BBB.
“Substitute” means an adult who directly cares for, serves, and
supervises children in a licensed child care facility, who works in place of
the regular caregiver, and who works less than an average of 40 hours per month
in a six month period.
CCC. “Suspension” means a
temporary cancellation of a license pending an appeal hearing or correction of
deficiencies.
DDD. “Site director” means the person
at the site having responsibility for program administration and supervision of
an out of school time program. This applies to out of school time
programs only.
EEE.
“Star level” means a license indicating the level of quality of an
early childhood program. A greater number of stars indicates
a higher level of quality.
FFF.
“Substantiated complaint” means a complaint determined to be
factual, based on an investigation of events.
GGG.
“Supervision” means the direct observation and guidance of children
at all times and requires being physically present with them. The only
exception is school-age children who will have privacy in the use of bathrooms.
HHH.
“Survey” means a representative of the licensing authority enters a
child care facility, observes activity, examines the records and premises,
interviews parents and staff members and records deficiencies.
III.
“Toddler” means a child age 12 months to 24 months.
JJJ.
“U/L” means the underwriters laboratory, which is a standards
organization which tests electrical and gas appliances for safety.
KKK.
“Unattended” means a caregiver is not physically present with a
child or children under care.
LLL. “Unsubstantiated
complaint” means a complaint not determined to be factual based on an
investigation of events.
MMM. “Variance” means an allowance granted by the
licensing authority to permit non-compliance with a specified regulation for
the period of licensure. The granting of variances is at the sole discretion of
the licensing authority.
NNN.
“Volunteer” means a person who is not employed as a childcare
provider, spends less than six hours per week at the facility, is under direct
physical supervision and is not counted in the facility ratio. Anyone not
fitting this description must meet all requirements for staff members.
OOO.
“Waiver” means an allowance granted by the licensing authority to
permit non-compliance with a specified regulation for a specified, limited
period of time. The granting of waivers is at the sole discretion of the
licensing authority.
[8.16.2.7 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.7 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.8
RELATED REGULATIONS AND CODES:
Facilities subject to these regulations are also subject to the current
versions of the following regulations and codes:
A. New Mexico
health department regulations, Control of Disease and Conditions of Public
Health Significance, 7.4.3 NMAC.
B. New Mexico
health department regulations, Control of Communicable Disease in Health
Facility Personnel, 7.4.4 NMAC.
C. New Mexico
health department regulations, Governing Public Access to Information in the
Department Records, 7.1.3 NMAC.
D. New Mexico
department of health regulations, Health Facility Licensure Fees and
Procedures, 7.1.7 NMAC.
E. New
Mexico children, youth and families department regulations, Administrative
Appeals, 8.8.4 NMAC.
F. New
Mexico department of health regulations, Health Facility Sanctions and Civil
Monetary Penalties, 7.1.8 NMAC.
G. New Mexico
children, youth and families department regulations, Governing Background Check
and Employment History of Licensees and Staff of Child Care Facilities, 8.8.3
NMAC.
H. New Mexico
environment department, Food Service and Food Processing, 7.6.2 NMAC.
I.
Latest edition adopted by the New Mexico state fire board of the National Fire
Protection Association Life Safety Code Handbook 101.
J.
Latest edition adopted by the New Mexico state fire board of the International
Fire Code.
K. Latest
edition adopted by the New Mexico construction industries division of the
Uniform Building Code enacted by the international conference of building
officials.
L.
Latest edition of the New Mexico Building, Plumbing/Mechanical and Electrical
codes adopted by the New Mexico construction industries division.
M. New Mexico
department of health Regulations Governing Immunizations Required for School
Attendance Immunization Requirement, 7.5.2 NMAC.
N. Federal
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
O. New Mexico
department of agriculture Regulations Pesticide Control Act, Chapter 76,
Article 4, Sections 1 through 39, NMSA 1978 and 21.17.50 NMAC.
P.
Latest edition of Critical Heights of Playground Equipment for Various Types
and Depths of Resilient Surfaces Based on Information from the U.S. CONSUMER
PRODUCT SAFETY COMMISSION (CPSC Publication No.325), Handbook for Public
Playground Safety.
Q. Any code,
ordinance, or rule of a governing body, including but not limited to cities,
towns, or counties having jurisdiction over the area in which the facility is
situated.
[8.16.2.8 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.8 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.9
APPLICATION: These
regulations apply to public or private facilities and homes that provide care,
education, services, and supervision to children less than 24 hours of any day,
come within the statutory definition of "health facilities" set out
in Section 24-1-2 (D) of the Public Health Act, Section 24-1-1 to 24-1-22 NMSA
1978 as amended, and are required to be licensed by the licensing authority.
These regulations do not apply to any of the following:
A. Facilities
providing child care for 24 hours on a continuous basis. Such facilities
are covered by other regulations promulgated by the children, youth and
families department that are available upon request from the licensing
authority.
B. Child care
facilities operated by the federal government or a tribal government.
C. Child care
facilities operated by a public school system and governed by the local school
board.
D. Private
schools accredited or recognized by the New Mexico department of education,
operated for educational purposes only for children age five years or older.
E.
Child care facilities provided exclusively for children of parents who are
simultaneously present in the same premises.
F.
Summer religious schools held on a church, religious building or house of
worship premises.
G. Summer
camps, wilderness camps, and programs operated for recreational purposes only
by recognized organizations such as churches, schools, and the boy and girl
scouts, provided such camps and programs are not conducted in private
residences.
H. Any
individual who in their own home provides care, services and supervision to
four or fewer nonresident children.
I.
Parent’s day out programs held in a church, religious building or house
of worship, or public building operating for no more than two days per week and
no more than four hours per day. The program will be staffed by parents
participating in the program, or by others who are members of the church or
public affiliation.
[8.16.2.9 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.9 NMAC, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.10
LICENSING AUTHORITY (ADMINISTRATION AND ENFORCEMENT RESPONSIBILITY): The child care services bureau, licensing
section, of the early childhood services division of the New Mexico children,
youth and families department, hereafter called the licensing authority, has
been granted the responsibility for the administration and enforcement of these
regulations by authority of Children, Youth and Families Department Act,
Section 9-2A-1 to 9-2A-16, NMSA 1978, as amended.
[8.16.2.10 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.10 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.11
LICENSING:
A. TYPES OF
LICENSES:
(1) Annual license: An annual license is issued for a
one-year period to a child care facility that has met all requirements of these
regulations.
(a)
1-star level requires meeting and maintaining licensing requirements at all
times, except for the requirements outlined in the following items: Items (i), (ii) and (iii) of Subparagraph (a) of Paragraph (1) of
Subsection A of 8.16.2.11 NMAC. 1-star level is designated for programs not
receiving child care subsidy. All 1-star providers receiving subsidy and
licensed at the time of publication of these rules shall have until July 1,
2012 to meet 2-star requirements included in the following sections of these
regulations:
(i) for centers: Paragraph
(16) of Subsection G of 8.16.2.22 NMAC, Paragraphs (5) through (10) of
Subsection C of 8.16.2.24 NMAC, and Subsection D of 8.16.2.24 NMAC;
(ii)
for licensed family and group child care homes: Paragraph (3) of Subsection E
of 8.16.2.32 NMAC, Paragraph (13) of Subsection F of 8.16.2.32 NMAC, Paragraphs
(4) through (9) of Subsection C of 8.16.2.34 NMAC, and Subsection D of
8.16.2.34 NMAC;
(iii) for licensed out of school time programs:
Subparagraph (j) of Paragraph (1) of Subsection E of 8.16.2.43 NMAC, Paragraph
(14) of Subsection F of 8.16.2.42 NMAC, Paragraphs (2) through (7) of
Subsection B of 8.16.2.44 NMAC and Subsection C of 8.16.2.44 NMAC.
(b) 2-star level requires meeting and maintaining
licensing requirements at all times.
(c) 3-star level is voluntary and requires meeting and maintaining
licensing requirements and AIM HIGH level 3 criteria at all times.
(d) 4-star level is voluntary and requires meeting and
maintaining licensing requirements and AIM HIGH levels 3 and 4 criteria at all
times.
(e) 5-star level is voluntary and requires meeting and maintaining
licensing requirements and maintaining approved national accreditation status.
(2) TEMPORARY LICENSE: The licensing authority will, at
its discretion, issue a temporary license or reduce star status when it finds
the child care facility in partial compliance with these regulations.
(a) A temporary license can, at the discretion of the licensing
authority, be issued for up to 120 days, during which time the child care
facility will correct all specified deficiencies.
(b) The licensing authority will not issue more than
two consecutive temporary licenses.
(c) After a second temporary license has been issued, a
new application and the required application fee must be submitted within 30
days in order to renew the license for the remainder of that one year period.
(3) AMENDED LICENSE: A child care facility will submit
a new notarized application to the licensing authority before modifying
information required to be stated on the license. Examples of such
modifications include dates, capacity, director and number of stars.
(a) A child care facility will apply to the licensing authority
for an amended license in order to change the director. The child care
facility must notify the licensing authority within 24 hours after the child
care facility becomes aware of the need to name a new director, submit an
application (Fee $20.00) and, if necessary, appoint a temporary acting director
with the minimum requirements of a high school diploma or GED and three years
of experience. The temporary acting director’s appointment is valid
for 90 days.
(b) A notarized application must be submitted for a
change of capacity (Fee $20.00). Application for an increase or decrease of
capacity will not be approved nor an amended license issued until an on-site
visit has been made by the licensing authority to determine that the child care
facility meets all applicable codes and regulations. A child care
facility must not accept additional children or change the layout of the child
care facility until the licensing authority has approved and issued the amended
license.
(c) A child care facility will apply to the licensing
authority for an amended license in order to change the number of stars. An
application for a different star level will not be approved nor an amended
license issued until on-site visits have been made and it has been determined
that the child care facility meets all applicable criteria.
(4) PROVISIONAL 2-STAR LICENSE: Programs licensed and
receiving child care subsidy after these regulations are promulgated will be given
a provisional 2-star license for up to three months, pending observation by the
licensing authority of the interactions between teachers and children in the
classrooms.
(5) RENEWAL OF LICENSE:
(a) A licensee will submit a notarized renewal application,
indicating the number of stars requested, on forms provided by the licensing
authority, along with the required fee, at least 30 days before expiration of
the current license. CYFD-approved nationally accredited centers, homes and out
of school time programs will submit copies of their current accreditation
certificates along with their renewal application. Applications postmarked less
than 30 days prior to the expiration date will be considered late and a twenty
five dollar ($25.00) late fee must be submitted with the renewal fee.
(b) The licensing authority will conduct an annual screen
of the department’s information database for center owners directly
involved in the daily care of children, all directors, all licensed homecaregivers and any other adults over the age of 18
living in the licensed home. All licensed facilities must maintain an
original background check eligibility letter for all current employees and
applicable volunteers, including a signed statement annually by each staff
person certifying that they would not be disqualified as a direct provider of
care under the most current version of the Background Checks and Employment
History Verification provisions pursuant to 8.8.3 NMAC. This will include
all adults and teenage children living in a family child care or group child
care home operated in a private residence.
(c) Upon receipt of a notarized renewal application,
the required fee and the completion of an on-site survey, the licensing
authority will issue a new license effective the day following the date of
expiration of the current license, if the child care facility is in compliance
with these regulations.
(d) If a licensee fails to submit a notarized renewal
application with the required fee before the current license expires, the
licensing authority may require the agency to cease operations until all
licensing requirements are completed.
B. POSTING OF
LICENSE: A child care facility will post the license on the licensed premises
in an area readily visible to parents, staff members, and visitors.
C.
NON-TRANSFERABLE RESTRICTIONS OF LICENSE: A licensee will not transfer a
license by assignment or otherwise to any other person or location. The
license will be void and the licensee will return it to the licensing authority
when:
(1) the owner of the child
care facility changes;
(2) the child care facility
moves;
(3) the licensee of the child
care facility changes; or
(4) the child care facility
closes.
D. AUTOMATIC
EXPIRATION OF LICENSE: A license will expire automatically at midnight on the
expiration date noted on the license unless earlier suspended or revoked, or:
(1) on the day a child care
facility closes;
(2) on the day a child care
facility is sold, leased, or otherwise changes ownership or licensee;
(3) on the day a child care
facility moves.
[8.16.2.11 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.11 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.12
LICENSING ACTIONS AND ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS:
A. The
licensing authority may revoke, suspend, or restrict a license, reduce star
status, deny an initial or renewal license application, impose monetary
sanctions pursuant to 7.1.8 NMAC, impose other sanctions or requirements
against a licensee, or reduce to a base level of child care assistance
reimbursement a licensee who is in receipt of a higher than base level of child
care assistance reimbursement, for any of the following reasons:
(1) violation of any provision of these regulations,
especially when the licensing authority has reason to believe that the health,
safety or welfare of a child is at risk, or has reason to believe that the licensee
cannot reasonably safeguard the health and safety of children;
(2) failure to allow access to
the licensed premises by authorized representatives of the licensing authority;
(3)
misrepresentation or falsification of any information
on an application form or any other form or record required by the licensing
authority;
(4) allowing any person to be active in the child care
facility who is or would be disqualified as a direct provider of care under the
most current version of the Background Checks and Employment History
Verification provisions pursuant to 8.8.3 NMAC; this will include all adults
and teenaged children living in a family child care or group child care home
operated in a private residence;
(5) failure to timely obtain
required background checks;
(6) hiring or continuing to
employ any person whose health or conduct impairs the person’s ability to
properly protect the health, safety, and welfare of the children;
(7) allowing the number of
children in the child care facility to exceed its licensed capacity;
(8) failure to comply with
provisions of the other related regulations listed in these regulations;
(9) discovery of repeat
violations of the regulations or failure to correct deficiencies of survey
findings in current or past contiguous or noncontiguous licensure periods;
(10) discovery of prior
revocations or suspensions that may be considered when reviewing a
facility’s application for licensure or license renewal;
(11) loss of accreditation, regardless of reason, will result in
a reduction in star status;
(12) possessing or knowingly permitting
non-prescription controlled substances or illegal drugs to be present or sold
on the premises at any time, regardless of whether children are present; or
(13) making false statements
or representations to the licensing authority with the intent to deceive, which
the licensee knows, or should know to be false.
B.
Commencement of a children, youth and families department or law enforcement
investigation may be grounds for immediate suspension of licensure pending the
outcome of the investigation. Upon receipt of the final results of the
investigation, the department my take such further action as is supported by
the investigation results.
C. The
children, youth and families department notifies the licensee in writing of any
action taken or contemplated against the license/licensee. The
notification shall include the reasons for the department’s action.
D. The
licensee may obtain administrative review of any action taken or contemplated
against the license/licensee.
E. The
administrative review shall be conducted by a hearing officer appointed by the
department’s secretary.
F. If
the action is to take effect immediately, the department affords the licensee
the opportunity for an administrative appeal within five working days. If
the license is suspended pending the results of an investigation, the licensee
may elect to postpone the hearing until the investigation has been completed.
G. If the
contemplated action does not take immediate effect, and the licensee is given
advance notice of the contemplated action, the licensee is allowed 10 working
days from date of notice to request an administrative appeal.
H. In
circumstances in which Public Health Act NMSA 1978 Subsection N of Section
24-1-5 (2005) may apply, and in which other provisions of this regulation are
not adequate to protect children from imminent danger of abuse or neglect while
in the care of a provider, the provisions of Subsection N of Section 24-1-5
shall apply as follows:
(1) The department shall consult with the owner or
operator of the child care facility.
(2) Upon a finding of probable cause, the department
shall give the owner or operator notice of its intent to suspend operation of
the child care facility and provide an opportunity for a hearing to be held
within three working days, unless waived by the owner or operator.
(3) Within seven working days from the day of notice,
the secretary shall make a decision, and, if it is determined that any child is
in imminent danger of abuse or neglect in the child care facility, the
secretary may suspend operation of the child care facility for a period not in
excess of 15 days.
(4) Prior to the date of the hearing, the department
shall make a reasonable effort to notify the parents of children in the child
care facility of the notice and opportunity for hearing given to the owner or
operator.
(5) No later than the conclusion of the 15 day period,
the department shall determine whether other action is warranted under this
regulation.
(6)
Nothing in Subsection H of 8.16.2.12 NMAC shall be construed to require
licensure that is not otherwise required in this regulation.
I.
The licensing authority may require a direct provider of care to undergo an
additional background check if information shows any of the following:
(1) that the direct provider
of care has pending charges for any criminal offense;
(2) that the direct provider
of care has a pending or substantiated CYFD protective services or juvenile
justice service referral;
(3) that the direct provider
of care has any criminal history or history of a referral to CYFD protective
services or juvenile justice services discovered after the most recent
background check; or
(4) that the direct provider
of care is the subject of an allegation of abuse and neglect in any licensed
facility.
J.
There shall be no right to administrative review for reduction in star level
resulting from loss of, or failure to maintain, national accreditation status.
The licensee shall be bound by the rules, regulations, policies and procedures
implemented by the national accreditation body that governs its accreditation
process.
K. The
licensee shall notify the licensing authority within 48 hours of any adverse
action by the national accreditation body against the licensee’s national
accreditation status, including but not limited to expiration, suspension,
termination, revocation, denial, nonrenewal, lapse or other action that could
affect its national accreditation status. The licensing authority shall reduce
the star level of the license to star level 2 until the licensee regains
national accreditation status, or until the facility can be verified at a level
higher than star level 2. Child care subsidies shall be adjusted to correspond
with any reductions or increases to star level.
[8.16.2.12 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.12 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.13
CIVIL MONETARY PENALTIES:
A. The
following factors shall be considered by the licensing authority when
determining whether to impose civil monetary penalties:
(1) death or serious injury to
a child;
(2) abuse, neglect or
exploitation of a child;
(3) regulatory violations
which immediately jeopardize the health and safety of a child;
(4) numerous violations, which
combined, jeopardize the health and safety of a child;
(5) repetitive violations of
the same nature found during two or more consecutive on-site visits or surveys
of a child care facility;
(6) failure of a child care
facility to correct violations found during previous surveys or visits;
(7)
intentional misrepresentation regarding condition of
the facility;
(8) effect of a civil monetary
penalty on financial viability of the facility; or
(9) extenuating circumstances,
which allow the licensing authority greater discretion to consider both
mitigating and exacerbating circumstances not specifically defined.
B. An initial
base penalty amount is assessed when a civil monetary penalty is imposed. The
base penalty amount is calculated at the rate of the most serious deficiency.
For example, the base penalty amount is assessed at the rate applicable to a
class A deficiency when the survey or investigation results in citation of
regulatory violations comprising class A, class B, and class C deficiencies,
because the most serious regulatory violation is the class A deficiency. The
base penalty is assessed once for the deficiencies cited by the licensing
authority during any particular survey or investigation.
C. The licensing
authority has the discretion to impose an initial base penalty at any amount
within the range for each deficiency level.
(1) Class A deficiency: not less than $500 and not
greater than $5,000.
(2) Class B deficiency: not less than $300 and not
greater than $3,000.
(3) Class C deficiency: not less than $100 and not
greater than $500.
[8.16.2.13 NMAC - N, 06/30/10]
8.16.2.14
WAIVERS:
A. Programs,
facilities or homes licensed under these regulations may request a waiver from
any of the requirements of these regulations by applying, in writing, to the
licensing authority for a waiver. The request should identify the
regulatory requirement for which a waiver is requested, the reason for the
waiver, and any action proposed to meet the intent of the regulation.
B. Requests
for waivers that involve construction of any type on a current licensed premise
must be reviewed and approved by the licensing authority prior to the
initiation of the construction.
C. Requests
for waivers will be reviewed and approved or denied within 30 calendar days of
receipt by the licensing authority.
[8.16.2.14 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.13 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.15
VARIANCES - CURRENTLY LICENSED FACILITIES:
A. If a child
care facility licensed on the date these regulations are promulgated provides
the services prescribed but fails to meet all building requirements, the
licensing authority will grant a variance, provided that the variances granted:
(1) will not create a hazard
to the health, safety, or welfare of children and staff members; and
(2) is for building
requirements that cannot be corrected without an unreasonable expense to the
child care facility.
B. Variances
granted will continue in force as long as the child care facility continues to
provide services pursuant to these regulations and will not violate the
criteria of Subsection A of this Section.
C. The
licensing authority will grant a variance for those requirements contained in
Section 8 Related Regulations and Codes if the licensee provides written
documentation from the relevant authority identified in these regulations that
the licensee complies with those requirements or has been granted a waiver or
variance from them.
[8.16.2.15 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.14 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.16
VARIANCES - NEW CHILD CARE FACILITY: A new child care facility may be located in an existing building or a
newly constructed building.
A. If opened
in an existing building, the licensing authority may grant a variance for those
building requirements the child care facility cannot meet provided any variance
is not in conflict with existing building and fire codes.
B. A new
child care facility opened in a newly constructed building will meet all
requirements of these regulations.
C. The
licensing authority will make all variances granted a permanent part of the
child care facility file.
D. The
licensing authority may grant a variance for those requirements contained in
8.16.2.8 NMAC Related Regulations and Codes if the licensee provides written
documentation from the relevant authority identified in these regulations that
the licensee complies with those requirements or has been granted a waiver or
variance from them.
[8.16.2.16 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.15 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.17
SURVEYS FOR CENTERS, HOMES, AND PROGRAMS:
A. The
licensing authority will conduct a survey at least twice a year in each child
care facility, home, and program using these regulations as criteria. For
purposes of this section, child care facility shall include both homes and
programs. The licensing authority will conduct additional surveys or
visit the child care facility additional times to provide technical assistance,
to check progress on correction of deficiencies found on previous surveys, or
to investigate complaints.
B. Upon the
completion of a survey, the licensing authority will discuss the findings with
the licensee or their representative and will provide the child care facility
with an official written report of the findings and a request for a plan or
plans of correction, if appropriate.
C. The
licensee, director, or operator, will submit within 10 working days after the
date of the survey, a plan of correction to the licensing authority for
deficiencies found during the survey. The plan of correction will be
specific on how and when the child care facility will correct the deficiency or
deficiencies.
D. The
licensing authority may accept the plan of correction as written or require
modifications of the plan.
E. By
applying for either a new license or a license renewal, the licensee grants the
licensing authority representative the right to enter the premises and survey
the child care facility, including inspection and copying of child care
facility records, both while the application is being processed and, if
licensed, at any time during the licensure period.
F. The
licensing authority may or may not announce a survey. At all times, a
person who is knowledgeable in the daily operations, has access to all records
and locked areas, and can represent the licensee or director for survey
purposes will be present in the child care facility.
[8.16.2.17 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.16 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.18
COMPLAINTS:
A. The
licensing authority will process any complaint regarding any child care
facility licensed or required to be licensed under these regulations. The
investigatory authority of the licensing authority is limited to matters
pertaining to these regulations.
B. A
licensing authority representative receiving complaints will ask complainants
to identify themselves and provide all information necessary to document the
complaint.
C. The
licensing authority will investigate any complaint in which the health, safety,
or welfare of a child could be in danger. The complaint will be reviewed and
prioritized immediately according to the nature and severity of the complaint.
The licensing authority follows established protocols and procedures for
prioritizing, tracking, initiating and reporting of complaints and complaint
investigations. Complaints will be investigated in a timely manner as
follows:
(1) Priority 1 complaints: investigation will be
initiated within 24 hours
(2) Priority 2 complaints: investigation will be
initiated within three working days.
(3) Priority 3 complaints: investigation will be
initiated within five working days.
(4) Initiation timeframes for investigations may be
shortened based on the severity and nature of the complaint, but timeframes may
not be extended.
D. The
licensee shall cooperate in good faith with any investigation by the licensing
authority. Obstruction of an investigation may subject the licensee to
sanctions, up to revocation.
E.
Action by the licensing authority:
(1) The licensing authority will provide a written
letter on the results of the investigation to both the licensee of the child
care facility that is the subject of the complaint and the complainant.
(2) If the licensing authority finds the complaint is
unsubstantiated, it will be so designated and the licensing authority will take
no further action.
(3) If the licensing authority finds that a complaint
is substantiated, it will make the complaint part of the licensing
authority’s file on the child care facility. The following
additional actions will, at the discretion of the licensing authority, be
taken:
(a) the licensing authority
will require the child care facility to submit and comply with a written plan
of correction; or
(b) the licensing authority
will sanction the child care facility administratively including, without
limitation, suspension, revocation, or restriction of a license; or
(c) the licensing authority
will file criminal charges or pursue civil remedies.
F. The
licensing authority will report all cases of suspected child abuse and neglect
to both children’s protective services and the local law enforcement
agency.
[8.16.2.18 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.17 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.19
BACKGROUND CHECKS:
Background checks will be conducted in accordance with the most current
regulations related to Background Checks and Employment History Verification
provisions as promulgated by the children, youth and families department
pursuant to 8.8.3 NMAC. All licensed child care facilities must adhere to these
provisions to maintain their licensing status.
[8.16.2.19 NMAC - Rp 8.16.2.18 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.20
CHILD CARE CENTER REGULATIONS:
A.
APPLICABILITY TO CHILD CARE CENTERS: A center required to be licensed under
regulations in 8.16.2.21 NMAC through 8.16.2.29 NMAC is one that provides care,
education, services and supervision to children for less than 24 hours a day to
children in a non-residential setting, and is not exempted from regulation
under any of the exceptions listed in 8.16.2.9 NMAC.
B. NEW OR
INNOVATIVE PROGRAMS FOR PROVIDING CHILD CARE TO CHILDREN: A new or
innovative service for child care that is typically not governed by these
regulations will be licensed if there is a substantiated need for the service
and if it meets all requirements outlined in Paragraphs (1), (2) and (3) of
Subsection C. New or innovative programs shall adhere to all basic licensing
standards regulations except that the licensing authority may grant waiver(s)
to the extent necessary to accommodate new and innovative services which may
conflict with any regulations pertaining to curriculum and environment.
C. SPECIAL
REQUIREMENTS FOR NEW OR INNOVATIVE CHILD CARE CENTERS: Applicants for new
or innovative child-care services that do not fit under these regulations will
submit a proposal to the licensing authority for review and approval.
Applications shall be presented to the department for review. The proposal will
include:
(1) an explanation of any
special needs or modifications for the children who will be receiving these
services;
(2) identification of those
portions of the proposed program that would conflict with these regulations;
and
(3) statement of how the
proposed center will modify or provide alternative measures, policies and procedures
that meet the intent of these regulations.
D. SPECIAL
REQUIREMENTS FOR CENTERS LOCATED ON OR NEAR THE PREMISES OF CORRECTIONAL
FACILITIES: Applicants for centers located on or near correctional facilities
will submit a proposal to the licensing authority for review and approval. The
proposal will include:
(1) an explanation of security
modifications that are deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the staff,
parents, and children using the child care center; and
(2) statement of how the
proposed center will modify or provide alternative measures, policies and
procedures that meet the intent of these regulations if the proposed program is
in conflict with these regulations.
[8.16.2.20 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.19 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.21
LICENSURE:
A. LICENSING
REQUIREMENTS:
(1) APPLICATION FORM: An applicant will complete
an application form provided by the licensing authority and include payment for
the non-refundable application fee. Applications will be rejected unless all
supporting documents are received within six months of the date indicated on
the application. A 45 day extension will be granted if the licensee provides
documentation to the licensing authority that documents were submitted to the
appropriate agencies in a timely manner but, through no fault of their own,
they have not received responses from these agencies.
(2) BACKGROUND CHECK: The licensing authority will
provide a copy of the most current version of the department’s Background
Check and Employment History Verification provisions, fingerprint cards and
instructions for completing them, and forms for recording an employment
history. The licensee will be responsible for obtaining background checks
on all staff, volunteers, and prospective staff as per the requirements
outlined in the department’s most current version of the Background Check
and Employment History Verification provisions. All requirements of the current
Background Check and Employment History Verification provisions pursuant to
8.8.3 NMAC must be met prior to the issuance of an initial license.
(3) ZONING, BUILDING AND OTHER APPROVALS: An
applicant will have: current written finalized zoning approval from the
appropriate city, county or state authority; current written building approval,
such as a certificate of occupancy, from the appropriate city, county or state
authority; current written approval of the state fire marshal office or other
appropriate city, county or state fire-prevention authority; current written
approval from the New Mexico environment department or other environmental
health authority for:
(a) a kitchen, if meals are
prepared on site and served in the center;
(b) private water supply, if
applicable;
(c) private waste or sewage
disposal, if applicable; and
(d) a swimming pool, if
applicable.
(4) ACCESS REQUIREMENTS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH
DISABILITIES IN NEW CENTERS:
(a) Accessibility to individuals with disabilities is
provided in all new centers and will include the following:
(i) main
entry into the center is level or has a ramp to allow for wheelchair access;
(ii) building
layout allows for access to the main activity area;
(iii) access to at least one
bathroom is required to have a door clearance of 32 inches; the toilet
unit also provides a 60-inch diameter turning radius;
(iv) if ramps are provided to
the building, the slope of each ramp is at least a 12-inch horizontal run for
each inch of vertical rise; and
(v) ramps exceeding a six-inch
rise are provided with handrails.
(b) Requirements contained herein are minimum and additional disability requirements may apply
depending on the size and complexity of the center.
(5) SCHEDULE: All applications for a new license will
include a description of the center’s proposed activities and schedule.
(6) INITIAL SURVEY: The licensing authority will
schedule a survey for a center when it receives a complete application with all
supporting documents.
B. CAPACITY
OF CENTERS:
(1) The number of children in a center, either in total
or by age, will not exceed the capacity stated on the license.
(2) The licensing authority will count all children in
the care of the licensed facility, including school-age children and the
children of staff members and volunteers, in the capacity of the facility, even
if the children are on a field trip or other outing outside the licensed
premises. The licensed capacity must not be exceeded by the presence of
school-age children.
(3) A center must meet the following space
requirements:
(a) 35 square feet of indoor activity space measured
wall to wall on the inside for each child in a center, excluding single-use
areas, such as restrooms, kitchens, halls and storage areas, and excluding
offsets and built-in fixtures.
(b) 75 square feet of outdoor activity space for each
child using the area at one time. The center will post on the doors to the
playground the maximum capacity of the playground.
(c) Centers must post classroom capacities and ratios in
an area of the room that is easily visible to parents, staff and visitors.
C. INCIDENT
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS: The licensee will report to the appropriate authorities
the following incidents. After making a report to the appropriate authorities,
the licensee shall notify the licensing authority of the incident giving rise
to its report as soon as possible but no later than 24 hours after the incident
occurred. A report should first be made by telephone and followed with written notification.
The licensee shall report any incident that has threatened or could threaten
the health and safety of children and staff members, such as, but not limited
to:
(1) a lost or missing child;
(2) the death of a child;
(3) the abuse or neglect of a
child;
(4) accidents, illness,
injuries or anything else that requires medical care beyond on-site first aid;
(5) fire, flood, or other natural
disaster that creates structural damages to a center or poses a health hazard;
(6) any of the illnesses on
the current list of notifiable diseases and
communicable diseases published by the office of epidemiology of the New Mexico
department of health;
(7)
any legal action against a center or staff members
related to the care and custody of children; and
(8) any declaration of
intention or determination to inflict punishment, loss, injury or pain on child
or staff member by the commission of an unlawful act, such as, but not limited
to, a bomb threat.
D. A center
will notify parents or guardians in writing of any incident including, notifiable illnesses, that have
threatened or could threaten the health or safety of children in the
center. Incidents include, but are not limited to those listed in
Subsection C of 8.16.2.21 NMAC.
E.
Incident reports involving suspected child abuse and neglect must be reported
immediately to children’s protective services and local law
enforcement. The licensing authority follows written protocols/procedures
for the prioritization, tracking, investigation and reporting of incidents, as
outlined in the complaint investigation protocol and procedures.
[8.16.2.21 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.20 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.22
ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS:
A.
ADMINISTRATION RECORDS: A licensee will display in a prominent place that
is readily visible to parents, staff and visitors:
(1) all licenses,
certificates, and most recent inspection reports of all state and local
government agencies with jurisdiction over the center;
(2) the current child care
regulations;
(3) dated weekly menus for meals and snacks;
(4) the guidance policy; and,
(5) the current list of notifiable diseases and communicable diseases published by
the office of epidemiology of the New Mexico department of health.
B. MISSION,
PHILOSOPHY AND CURRICULUM STATEMENT: All licensed facilities must have a:
(1) mission statement;
(2) philosophy statement; and
(3) curriculum statement.
C. POLICY AND
PROCEDURES: All facilities using these regulations must have written
policies and procedures covering the following areas:
(1) actions to be taken in
case of accidents or emergencies involving a child, parents or staff members;
(2) policies and procedures
for admission and discharge of children;
(3) policies and procedures
for the handling of medications;
(4) policies and procedures
for the handling of complaints received from parents or any other person;
(5) policies and procedures for actions to be taken in case a
child is found missing from the center;
(6) policies and procedures
for the handling of children who are ill;
(7) an up to date emergency evacuation
and disaster preparedness plan approved annually by the licensing
authority; the department will provide guidance on developing these
plans.
D. PARENT
HANDBOOK: All facilities using these regulations must have a parent handbook
which includes the following:
(1) GENERAL INFORMATION:
(a) mission statement;
(b) philosophy statement;
(c) program information
(location, license information, days and hours of operation, services offered);
(d) name of director and how
he/she may be reached;
(e) meals, snacks and types of
food served (or alternatively, guidelines for children bringing their own
food);
(f) daily schedule;
(g) a statement supportive of
family involvement that includes an open door policy to the classroom;
(h)
appropriate dress for children, including request for
extra change of clothes;
(i) celebrating
holidays, birthdays and parties;
(j) disclosure to parents that
the licensee does not have liability or accident insurance coverage.
(2) POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:
(a) enrollment procedures;
(b) disenrollment procedures;
(c)
fee payment procedures, including penalties for
tardiness;
(d) notification of absence;
(e) fee credits, if any (e.g.
for vacations, absences, etc.);
(f)
field trip policies;
(g) health policies
(program’s policies on admitting sick children, when children can return
after an illness, administering medication, and information on common
illnesses);
(h) emergency procedures,
safety policies, and disaster preparedness plan, which shall include steps for
evacuation, relocation and reunification with parents, and individual plans for
children with special needs;
(i) snow
days and school closure;
(j) confidentiality policy;
(k) child abuse/neglect
reporting procedure; and
(l) guidance policy
E.
CHILDREN’S RECORDS: A center will maintain a complete record for each
child, including drop-ins, completed before the child is admitted.
Records will be kept at the center for 12 months after the child’s last
day of attendance. Records will contain at least:
(1) PERSONAL INFORMATION:
(a) name of the child; date of
birth, gender, home address, mailing address and telephone number;
(b) names of parents or
guardians, parents or guardians current places of employment, addresses, pager,
cellular and work telephone numbers;
(c) a list of people
authorized to pick up the child and an authorization form signed by parent or
guardian; identification of person authorized by the parent or guardian to pick
up the child shall be verified at pick up;
(d) date the child first
attended the center and the date of the child’s last day at the center;
(e)
a copy of the child’s up-to-date immunization
record or a public health division approved exemption from the requirement;
(f) a record of any accidents,
injuries or illnesses which require first aid or medical attention which must
be reported to the parent or guardian;
(g) a record of observations
of recent bruises, bites or signs of potential abuse or neglect, which must be
reported to CYFD;
(h)
written authorization from the child’s parent or
guardian to remove a child from the premises to participate in off-site
activities. Authorization must contain fieldtrip destination, date and time of
fieldtrip and expected return time from fieldtrip;
(i) a
record of the time the child arrived and left the center and dates of
attendance initialed by a parent, guardian, or person authorized to pick up the
child;
(j) an enrollment agreement
form which must be signed by a parent or guardian with an outline of the
services and the costs being provided by the facility; and
(k) a signed acknowledgment
that the parent or guardian has read and understands the parent handbook.
(2) EMERGENCY INFORMATION:
(a) Information on any allergies or medical conditions suffered
by the child.
(b) The name and telephone number of two people in the local
area to contact in an emergency when a parent or guardian cannot be reached.
Emergency contact numbers must be kept up to date at all times.
(c) The name and telephone number of a physician or
emergency medical center authorized by a parent or guardian to contact in case
of illness or emergency.
(d) A document giving a center permission to transport
the child in a medical emergency and an authorization for medical treatment
signed by a parent or guardian.
(e) Documentation of the legal status of the child, if applicable,
such as, but not limited to: restraining orders, guardianship, powers of
attorney, court orders, custody by children’s protective services, etc.
F.
PERSONNEL RECORDS:
(1) A licensee will keep a complete file for each staff
member, including substitutes and volunteers working more than six hours of any
week and having direct contact with the children. A center will keep the
file for one year after the caregiver’s last day of employment.
Records will contain at least the following:
(a) name, address and
telephone number;
(b) position;
(c) current and past duties
and responsibilities;
(d) dates of hire and
termination;
(e) documentation of a background check and employment history
verification; if background check is in process then documentation
showing that it is in process, such as a money order, shall be placed in file;
all persons providing care are required to sign an annual statement that they
have, or have never had, an arrest or substantiated referral to a child
protective services agency; if the person has had an arrest or a
substantiated referral, they must provide the CYFD with a written statement
concerning the circumstances and disposition of the arrest or substantiated
referral; an employer will not allow any employee involved in an incident
which would disqualify that employee under the department’s most current
version of the Background Check and Employment History Verification provisions
pursuant to 8.8.3 NMAC to continue to work directly or unsupervised with
children;
(f) documentation of current
first-aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training;
(g) documentation of all
appropriate training by date, time, hours and area of competency;
(h) emergency contact number;
(i) universal
precaution acknowledgment form;
(j) confidentiality form;
(k)
results of performance evaluations;
(l) administrative actions or
reprimands;
(m) written plan for ongoing professional development for
each staff member, including the director, that is based on the seven areas of
competency, consistent with the career lattice, and based on the
individual’s goals; and
(n) signed acknowledgment that the
staff have read and understand the personnel handbook;
(o) signed acknowledgement
that all staff have reviewed and are aware of the center’s disaster preparedness
plan and evacuation plan, which shall include steps for evacuation, relocation
and reunification with parents, and individual plans for children with special
needs.
(2) A center will maintain dated weekly work schedules
for the director, all staff, all care givers and volunteers and keep the
records on file for at least 12 months. The record will include the time
the workers arrived at and left work and include breaks and lunch.
G. PERSONNEL
HANDBOOK: The center will give each employee a personnel handbook that covers
all matters relating to employment and includes the following critical
contents:
(1) organizational chart;
(2) job descriptions of all employees
by title;
(3) benefits, including
vacation days, sick leave, professional development days, health insurance,
break times, etc.
(4) code of conduct;
(5) training requirements,
career lattice, professional development opportunities;
(6) procedures and criteria
for performance evaluations;
(7) policies on absence from
work;
(8) grievance procedures;
(9) procedures for resignation
or termination;
(10) copy of licensing
regulations;
(11) policy on parent
involvement;
(12) health policies related
to both children and staff;
(13) policy on sexual
harassment;
(14) child guidance policy;
(15) confidentially statement;
and
(16) plan for retention of
qualified staff.
[8.16.2.22 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.21 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.23
PERSONNEL AND STAFFING:
A. GENERAL
PERSONNEL AND STAFFING REQUIREMENTS:
(1) All care givers will have the capability to care
for and supervise children.
(2) Care givers who work directly with children and who are
counted in the staff/child ratios must be 18 years of age or older.
(3) Clerical, cooking and maintenance personnel who
also care for children and are included in the staff/child ratio will have a
designated schedule showing their normal hours in each role. Care givers
counted in the staff/child ratios will not have as their primary responsibility
cooking, clerical or cleaning duties while caring for children.
(4) Volunteers shall not be counted in the staff/child
ratios or left alone with children unless they meet all requirements for staff
members.
(5) Substitutes and part-time care givers counted in
the staff/child ratios will meet the same requirement as regular staff members
except for training requirements, professional development plan and
evaluations. Substitutes, volunteers, and care givers routinely employed
in a center but working 20 hours or fewer a week will
complete half the required training hours. Such employees working more
than 20 hours a week will meet full training requirements and have professional
development plans and evaluations. See Paragraph (2) of Subsection B of
8.16.2.23 NMAC for additional training requirements.
B. STAFF
QUALIFICATIONS AND TRAINING:
(1) DIRECTOR QUALIFICATIONS:
(a) Unless exempted under Subparagraph (b) below, a
child care center will have a director who meets the requirements outlined in
the table below.
|
If have: - New Mexico child development certificate - early childhood program administration
certificate child development associate (CDA) certificate, - certified child care professional
credential (CCP), - montessori
teacher certification, - national administrator credential (NAC), one-year vocational certificate, or an associate
of arts (AA) or applied science (AAS) degree in child development or early
childhood education |
Must also have: - at least two years of experience in an
early childhood growth and development setting - NAC recipients must also have the 45 hour
course or equivalent within the first six months of hire and the two years of
experience in an early childhood growth and development setting. |
|
- a bachelor’s degree or higher in
early childhood education or a related field; related fields include:
early childhood special education, family studies, family and consumer
sciences, elementary education with early childhood endorsement or other
degree with successful completion of courses in early childhood. |
at least one year of experience in an early
childhood growth and development setting. |
|
- three program
administrator courses to include the following: program management,
curriculum for diverse learner’s and their families, and professional
relationships. |
at least three years of experience in an
early childhood growth and development setting |
(b) Current directors in a licensed center not qualified
under these regulations will continue to qualify as directors as long as they continuously
work as a director. Current directors having a break in employment of
more than one year must meet the requirements as specified in Subparagraph (a)
above.
(2) TRAINING:
(a)
The director will develop and document an orientation and training plan for new
staff members and volunteers and will provide information on training
opportunities. The director will have on file a signed acknowledgment of
completion of orientation by employees, volunteers and substitutes as well as
the director. New staff members will participate in an orientation before
working with children. Initial orientation will include training on the
following:
(i)
scope of services, activities, and the program offered
by the center;
(ii) emergency first aid
procedures, recognition of childhood illness and indicators of child abuse;
(iii)
fire prevention measures and emergency evacuation
plans;
(iv) review of licensing
regulations;
(v) policies regarding
guidance, child abuse reporting, and handling of complaints;
(vi) review of written
policies and procedures as defined in Subsection C of 8.16.2.22 NMAC;
(vii) center/parental
agreement;
(viii)
sanitation procedure;
(ix) written goals of the
program;
(x) personnel handbook;
(xi) parent handbook;
(xii) names and ages of
children;
(xiii) names of parents;
(xiv) tour of the facility;
and
(xv)
introduction to other staff and parents.
(b) New staff members working directly with children regardless
of the number of hours per week will complete the 45-hour entry level course or
approved three-credit early care and education course or an equivalent approved
by the department prior to or within six months of employment. Substitutes are
exempt from this requirement.
(c) Each staff person working directly with children and
more than 20 hours per week, including the director, is required to obtain at
least 24 hours of training each year. For this purpose, a year begins and ends
at the anniversary date of employment. Training must address first aid, CPR,
infection control and at least three competency areas within one year and all
seven areas within two years. The competency areas are 1) child growth,
development, and learning; 2) health, safety, nutrition, and infection control;
3) family and community collaboration; 4) developmentally appropriate content;
5) learning environment and curriculum implementation; 6) assessment of
children and programs; and 7) professionalism.
(d) Training must be provided by people who are registered
on the New Mexico trainer registry.
(e) Training provided by center employees and directors
shall count for no more than half of the required 24 hours of training each
year.
(f) On-line training courses shall count for no more
than 16 hours each year.
(g) Identical trainings shall not be repeated for the purpose
of obtaining credit.
(h) Directors may count hours in personnel and business
training toward the training requirement.
(i) Infant and toddler care
givers must have at least four hours of training in infant and toddler care
annually and within six months of starting work. The four hours will
count toward the 24-hour requirement.
(j) A center will keep a training log on file with the employee’s
name, date of hire, and position. The log must include date of training, clock
hours, competency area, source of training, and training certificate. A college
credit hour in a field relevant to the competency areas listed above will be
considered equivalent to a minimum of 15 clock hours. See Paragraph (5) of
Subsection A of 8.16.2.23 NMAC for requirements for centers that operate less
than 20 hours per week.
C. STAFFING
REQUIREMENTS:
(1) A director is responsible for one center
only. Directors who are responsible for more than one center on the date
these regulations are promulgated shall continue in that capacity. The director
or co-director must be on the site of the center for a minimum of 50% of the
center’s core hours of operation. See Paragraph (2) of Subsection F of
8.16.2.22 NMAC.
(2) During any absence, the director will assign a
person to be in charge and will post a notice stating the assignment.
(3) A program will maintain staff/child ratios at all
times. Children must never be left unattended whether inside or outside
the facility. Staff will be onsite, available and responsive to children during
all hours of operation.
(4) A center will have a minimum of two staff members
present at all times. If the center has less than seven children, the second
caregiver may conduct other activities such as cooking, cleaning, or
bookkeeping, etc. A center will keep a list of at least two people who
can substitute for any staff member. The list will include the
people’s names, telephone numbers, background check, health certificates
and record of orientation.
(5) Each room of the center and its premises shall be
inspected at closing time on a daily basis to assure the center is secure, free
of hazards, and that no child has been left unattended.
D.
STAFF/CHILD RATIOS:
(1) Centers where children are grouped by age:
(a) Age in group: six weeks through 24 months. - Staffing:
one adult for every six children or fraction of group thereof.
(b) Age in group: two years. - Staffing: one
adult for every 10 children or fraction of group thereof.
(c) Age in group: three years. - Staffing: one
adult for every 12 children or fraction of group thereof.
(d) Age in group: four years. B Staffing: one
adult for every 12 children or fraction of group thereof.
(e) Age in group: five years. B Staffing:
one adult for every 15 children or fraction of group thereof,
(f) Age in group: six years and older. B Staffing:
one adult for every 15 children or fraction of group thereof.
(2) CENTERS WHERE AGE GROUPS ARE COMBINED
(a) Age in group: six weeks through 24 months. B Staffing:
one adult to every six children or fraction of group thereof.
(b) Age in group: two through four years. B
Staffing: one adult to every 12 children or fraction of group thereof.
(c) Age in group: three through five years. B Staffing:
one adult to every 14 children or fraction thereof.
(d) Age in group: six years and older. B
Staffing: one adult to every 15 children or fraction of group thereof.
(i) A center will schedule
staff to minimize the number of primary care givers a child has during the day
and the week. A child will have no more than three primary, consecutive
care givers in any day including care givers in the early morning and late
afternoon.
(ii) The same staff member who cares for the children
under age two years will supervise those children when they play with children
over two years.
(iii) If a center groups toddlers
ages 18 to 24 months with children ages 24 through 35 months, the staff/child
ratio shall be maintained at one staff per six children.
[8.16.2.23 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.22 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.24
SERVICES AND CARE OF CHILDREN:
A. GUIDANCE:
(1) A center will have written policies and procedures
clearly outlining guidance practices. Centers will give this information
to all parents and staff who will sign a form to acknowledge that they have
read and understand these policies and procedures.
(2) Guidance will be consistent and age appropriate.
(3) Guidance shall be positive and include redirection
and clear limits that encourage the child’s ability to become
self-disciplined.
(4) A center will not use the following disciplinary
practices:
(a)
physical punishment of any type, including shaking,
biting, hitting, pinching or putting anything on or in a child’s mouth;
(b) withdrawal of food, rest,
bathroom access, or outdoor activities;
(c) abusive or profane
language, including yelling;
(d) any form of public or
private humiliation, including threats of physical punishment, or
(e) unsupervised separation.
B. NAPS OR
REST PERIOD: A center will provide physical care appropriate to each
child’s developmental needs that will include a supervised rest period.
(1) Children under the age of six years in the centers
for more than five hours will have a rest period.
(2) A center will allow children who do not sleep to
get up and participate in quiet activities that do not disturb the other
children.
(3) Cribs, cots or mats will be spaced at least 30
inches apart to permit easy access by adults to each child without moving
cribs, cots or mats.
(4) Each child will have an individual bed, cot, or mat
clearly labeled to ensure each child uses the same items between washing.
(5) Cots or mats will have a nonabsorbent, cleanable
surface. Mats will be at least three-fourths of an inch thick.
Mats and cots shall be disinfected and linens will be laundered before being
used by another child.
(6) The center will provide a crib for each infant and,
when appropriate, for a toddler. See Paragraph (1) of Subsection G of 8.16.2.28
NMAC on crib safety. No child will be allowed to sleep in a playpen, car
seat, stroller or swings. Children under the age of 12 months shall be placed
on their backs when sleeping unless otherwise authorized in writing by a
physician. Nothing shall be placed over the head or face of a child aged 12
months or younger when the child is laid down to sleep. Children with
disabilities or medical conditions that require unusual sleeping arrangements
will have written authorization from a parent or physician justifying the
sleeping arrangement.
(7)
Staff must be physically available to sleeping children at all times. Children
must not be isolated for sleeping or napping in an unilluminated
room unless attended by a caregiver.
(8) Illumination equivalent to that cast by a soft
night light shall be operational in areas that are occupied by children who are
napping or sleeping.
(9) Staff/child ratios shall be maintained at naptime.
C. PHYSICAL
ENVIRONMENT:
(1) Environment shall be organized into functional
identifiable learning areas, such as:
(a) dramatic play;
(b) creative art;
(c) books;
(d)
blocks and accessories;
(e) manipulatives;
(f) music;
(g) science;
(h) math/number; and
(i) sensory.
(2) Each center is clearly defined, using shelves and
furniture.
(3) Adults can visually supervise all centers at all
times.
(4) The capacity of each room will be posted in an area
of the room that is readily visible to parents, staff members and visitors.
(5) Noisy and quiet areas are arranged so that
children’s activities can be sustained without interruption.
(6) Materials are well cared
for and organized by type. Where appropriate, materials are labeled with words
or pictures. Adaptations to materials are made when needed to accommodate
various abilities of all children. Unused materials are stored in inaccessible
storage.
(7) Learning areas are functional with adequate space
and are logically placed. The environment is set up so children are not
continually interrupting one another.
(8) Examples of children’s individually expressed
artwork are displayed in the environment.
(9) Floor surface is suitable for activities that will
occur in each learning area.
(10) File and storage space is available for
teacher/caregiver materials.
D.
SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL RESPONSIVE ENVIRONMENT:
(1) Caregivers remain calm in stressful situations.
(2) Caregivers talk and actively listen to children and
respond appropriately.
(3) Caregivers respond to children’s questions
and acknowledge their comments, concerns, emotions and feelings.
(4) Caregivers help children communicate their feelings
by providing them with language to express themselves.
(5) Caregivers make appropriate physical contact to
comfort and support children in daily routines and interactions. When children
are distressed, caregivers comfort them.
(6) Caregivers model appropriate social behaviors,
interactions and empathy. Caregivers respond to children that are angry, hurt,
or sad in a caring and sensitive manner.
(7) Caregivers are actively engaged with children.
E.
EQUIPMENT AND PROGRAM:
(1) A child care center will provide activities that
encourage children to be actively involved in the learning process and to experience
a variety of developmentally appropriate activities and materials.
(2) A center will provide sufficient equipment,
materials, and furnishings for both indoor and outdoor activities so that at
any one time each child can be individually involved.
(3) Each child at a center will have a designated space
for storage of clothing and personal belongings.
(4) A center will store equipment and materials for
children’s use within easy reach of the children, including those with
disabilities. A center will store the equipment and materials in an
orderly manner so children can select and replace the materials by themselves
or with minimal assistance.
(5) A center will provide children with toys and other
materials that are safe and encourage the child’s creativity, social
interaction, and a balance of individual and group play.
(6) A center will post a daily activity schedule.
A center will follow a consistent pattern for routine activities such as meals,
snacks and rest.
(7) Children
will not watch television, videotapes, or play video games for more than one
hour a day. Programs, movies, music and music programs shall be age appropriate
and shall not contain adult content.
(8) Children and family members shall be acknowledged
upon arrival and departure.
(9) Full-time children shall have a minimum of 60
minutes of physical activity daily, preferably outside. Part-time children
shall have a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity daily, preferably
outside.
(10) Equipment and program requirements apply during
all hours of operation of the licensed facility.
F.
OUTDOOR PLAY AREAS:
(1) Outdoor play equipment will be safe and securely
anchored.
(2) A center will enclose the outdoor play area with a
fence at least four feet high and with at least one latched gate available for
an emergency exit.
(3) A center will place sufficient energy absorbing
surfaces beneath climbing structures, swings and slides (as determined by
Subsection P of 8.16.2.8 NMAC).
|
Critical Heights of Playground Equipment for Various Types and Depths
of Resilient Surfaces Based on Information from the U.S. CONSUMER PRODUCT
SAFETY COMMISSION (CPSC Publication No. 325), Handbook for Public Playground
Safety. When no requirement is provided for a specific height of equipment,
we have used the requirement for the next higher height, so requirements are
conservative, erring on the side of safety. |
|||||||
|
Equipment Height |
Wood Chips |
Double Shredded Bark |
Uniform Wood Chips |
Fine Sand |
Coarse Sand |
Fine Gravel |
|
|
Uncompressed Depths of Materials In Fall
Zone |
|||||||
|
Five feet or less |
6 inches |
6 inches |
6 inches |
6 inches |
6 inches |
6 inches |
|
|
Six feet |
6 inches |
6 inches |
6 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
6 inches |
|
|
Seven feet |
6 inches |
9 inches |
9 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
9 inches |
|
|
Eight feet |
9 inches |
9 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
|
|
Nine Feet |
9 inches |
9 inches |
12 inches |
12 inches |
N/A |
12 inches |
|
|
Ten Feet |
9 inches |
9 inches |
12 inches |
N/A |
N/A |
12 inches |
|
|
For poured or installed foam or rubber surfaces, the materials must
meet the ASTM F1292 requirements with written verification from the
manufacturer. |
|||||||
(4)
Playground equipment shall be inspected and inspections documented weekly.
(5) An outdoor play area for children under age two
years will have an area protected from the general traffic where the children
can crawl in safety.
(6) The use of a trampoline is prohibited at any time
during the hours of operation or by any children receiving care at the
facility.
(7) Children shall be protected from the sun during
outdoor play, as instructed by the child’s parent or guardian.
G. SWIMMING,
WADING AND WATER:
(1) Each child will have written permission from a
parent or guardian before the child enters the pool.
(2) If a center has a portable wading pool:
(a) a center will drain and
fill the wading pool with fresh water daily and disinfect pool before and after
each use;
(b) a center will empty a
wading pool when it is not in use and remove it from areas accessible to
children;
(c) a center will not use a
portable wading pool placed on concrete or asphalt.
(3) If a center has a built in or above ground swimming
pool, ditch, fishpond or other water hazard:
(a) the fixture will be
constructed, maintained and used in accordance with applicable state and local
regulations;
(b) the fixture will be
constructed and protected so that, when not in use, it is inaccessible to
children;
(c) when in use, children will
be constantly supervised and the number of adults present will be proportional
to the ages and abilities of the children and type of water hazard in use.
(4) The following ratios shall be observed for swimming
pools more than two feet deep:
|
|
Ratio for swimming pools more than two feet
deep |
|
|
Age of the youngest child |
Number of caregivers, lifeguards or
volunteers |
Number of children |
|
0-23 mon |
1 |
1 |
|
2 years |
1 |
2 |
|
3 years |
1 |
6 |
|
4 years |
1 |
8 |
|
5 years |
1 |
10 |
|
6 years and older |
1 |
12 |
[8.16.2.24 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.23 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.25
FOOD SERVICE:
A. MEAL
PATTERN REQUIREMENTS: All foods prepared by the center will conform to
the guidelines from United States department of agriculture’s
(USDA’s) child and adult care food program (CACFP) for foods, meal
patterns and serving sizes.
B. MEALS AND
SNACKS:
(1) A center will provide a child a meal or snack at
least every three hours except when the child is sleeping at night.
(2) A center will serve, if necessary, a child a
therapeutic or special diet with written prescription/diet orders from a physician
or a recognized medical authority. Diet orders must be complete and
descriptive, and not subject to interpretation by the center staff.
(3) A center shall make water freely available to
children.
(4) A center that provides daily meals and snacks shall
plan these to meet the minimum standards in the CACFP and to be consistent with
the USDA’s current dietary guidelines for Americans, to include the
following. Parents of children who have special dietary needs may provide
written permission to the child care program to exempt their child from the
following requirements if necessary due to such special dietary needs.
(a) Only 100-percent fruit or vegetable juice shall be
served. The use of fruit drinks containing less than 100-percent juice or
artificially flavored drinks for meals or snacks is prohibited. 100-percent
fruit or vegetable juice may be diluted with water.
(b) Only whole, pasteurized fluid milk shall be served
to children between 12 and 24 months of age; reduced fat, low fat, or skim milk
may be served to children who are two years and older.
(c) A wide variety of fruits and vegetables shall be
served, with a preference for fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables over
canned.
(5) A center shall vary snacks each day and shall
include a selection of two different food group components from the four food
group components.
C. MENUS:
(1) Menus shall include a variety of foods. The same
menu will not be served twice in one week.
(2) Posted menus shall be
followed. Substitutions shall be of equivalent nutritional value and
shall be recorded on the posted menu.
(3) Menus shall be posted at least one week in advance,
in a conspicuous place, for review by parents, caregivers and children.
D. KITCHENS:
Centers shall comply with current New Mexico environment department
requirements regarding food service.
(1) A center will not allow children in the kitchen
except under careful supervision.
(2) A food preparer will thoroughly wash all raw fruits
and vegetables before cooking or serving.
(3) A center will serve food promptly and refrigerate
immediately after use.
(4) A center will protect food and drink by
properly storing items in an airtight container or by tightly wrapping
them. A center will label and date all leftover food.
(5) If food is brought from the child’s home, a
center will label it with the child’s name and refrigerate if necessary.
A center will label and refrigerate bottles of infant formula or breast milk.
(6) A center’s refrigerators and separate
freezers will have working internal thermometers and keep food requiring
refrigeration, including formula, at 41 degrees (fahrenheit) or below, and frozen food at 0 degrees (fahrenheit) or below.
(7) A center will protect all food from insects,
rodents and other vermin.
(8)
A center will discard any leftover milk or formula, rinse bottles after use and
disinfect bottles before reuse.
(9) A center will sanitize eating utensils, dishes and
cups before re-use by washing them in a dishwasher or by completing the
following steps: 1) wash with soapy water; 2) rinse with clean warm water; and
3) sanitize using four tablespoons of household bleach to one gallon of cool
water or a bleach-equivalent product approved by CYFD. Disposable plates and
cups and plastic utensils of food-grade, medium weight may be used for single
service, but styrofoam cups may not be used.
(10) A center will use cleaning materials for the
kitchen and food preparation areas only in the kitchen and will store the
materials separately from food.
(11) A center shall thoroughly sanitize food
preparation surfaces before and after each use.
E. MEAL
TIMES:
(1) A center will equip dining areas with tables,
chairs, eating utensils and dishes appropriate to the age of the children
served and disinfect the areas before and after use.
(2) Staff/child ratios must be maintained at meal
times.
(3) Adults must sit with the children at meal and snack
times to assist toddlers with eating, drinking, and self-feeding.
(4) Time allowed for meals shall enable the children to
eat at reasonable rate.
(5) A center will provide sanitary cups or glasses or a
drinking fountain for drinking water. Infants and toddlers shall be
offered water from a cup. Toddlers shall be encouraged to hold and drink
from a cup, use a spoon, and to use their fingers for self-feeding. A
center will not allow children to share drinking or eating utensils.
[8.16.2.25 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.24 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.26
HEALTH AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
A. HYGIENE:
(1) Children and staff members will wash their hands
with soap and warm running water as needed. Water basins shall not be used as
an alternative to running water. Staff and children will wash their hands
whenever hands are contaminated with body fluids and always:
(a) after using a toilet,
assisting a child with toilet use, or changing a diaper;
(b) before and after caring
for a sick child;
(c) before any food service
activity, including setting the table;
(d)
before and after eating;
(e) before and after feeding a
child; and
(f) after handling pets or
animals or items used by animals such as water and food bowls.
(2) A center
will label with the child’s name and store separately any item used for
an individual child’s personal hygiene.
(3) If a center promotes tooth brushing activities, the
center will store toothbrushes so that they do not drip on other toothbrushes
and so that they are separate from one another, with bristles exposed to the
air to dry, labeled and not in contact with any other surface.
B. FIRST AID
REQUIREMENTS:
(1) A center will have on duty at all times one staff
member or caregiver currently certified in first aid and cardiopulmonary
resuscitation (CPR).
(2) A center will keep a first-aid kit and a first-aid
manual together in the center in a location inaccessible to children and easily
accessible to adults. The first aid kit will contain, at a minimum, band
aids, gauze pads, adhesive tape, scissors, soap, nonporous gloves, and a
thermometer.
(3) A center will treat blood spills cautiously and
promptly disinfect the area. Staff members will wear non-porous,
single-use gloves when handling a blood spill, bloody diarrhea, bloody nose, or
any other blood. A center will clean contaminated surfaces first with hot
soapy water then with a disinfecting solution effective against HIV and
hepatitis B.
C.
MEDICATION:
(1) All staff and children’s medications must be
labeled. A center will keep all medications in a locked and identified
container inaccessible to children and will refrigerate medications when
necessary. If the refrigerator is inaccessible to children, medications
do not need to be in a locked container in the refrigerator.
(2) Facilities will give medication only with written
permission from a parent or guardian, to be administered according to written
directions from the prescribing physician. In the case of
non-prescription medication, written instructions must be provided by the
parent or guardian. For the purpose of this requirement only, non-prescription
medications include sunscreen, insect repellent and diaper creams or other over
the counter medications.
(3) A designated staff member will be responsible for
giving medication to children. The designated staff member will ensure
non-prescription and prescription medications have a label with the
child’s name and the date the medication was brought to the center.
A center will keep non-prescription and prescription medication in the original
container with written instructions, including the name of medication, the
dosage, and the hours and dates the child should receive the medicine.
(4) The designated staff member will keep and sign a
written record of the dosage, date and time a child is given medication with
the signature of the staff who administered the medication. This
information will be provided to the parent or guardian who will initial/date
acknowledgment of information received on the day the medication is given.
(5)
When the medication is no longer needed, it shall be returned to the parents or
guardians or destroyed. The center shall not administer expired
medication.
[8.16.2.26 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.25 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.27
ILLNESS:
A. Children
or staff members absent due to any notifiable disease
will not return to the center without a signed statement from a physician.
B. A center
will separate and constantly observe a child who becomes sick at the center and
promptly notify a parent or guardian of the child’s illness.
C. A center
will send a child home when:
(1) the child’s oral
temperature is 101 degrees (fahrenheit) or greater or
armpit temperature is 100.4 degrees (fahrenheit) or
greater and the child shows signs of illness or behavior changes; or
(2) a caregiver observes signs
of contagious disease or severe illness.
D. The center
will have a cot or mat available for sick children and it will be disinfected
thoroughly after each use.
[8.16.2.27 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.26 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.28
OTHER:
A.
TRANSPORTATION:
(1) When a center provides transportation to children,
it is responsible for the care of children from the time of pick up to delivery
to a responsible adult. All vehicles used for transportation of children
will have an operable fire extinguisher, first-aid kit, first-aid manual, water
and blanket.
(2) A center will license all vehicles used for
transporting children and will meet all applicable state vehicle laws. A
child shall be transported only if the child is properly secured in a child
passenger restraint device or by a safety belt as follows. School buses that
are not equipped with passenger restraint devices are exempt from this
requirement.
(a) Children less than one year of age shall be
properly secured in a rear-facing child passenger restraint device that meets
federal standards, in the rear seat of a vehicle that is equipped with a rear
seat. If the vehicle is not equipped with a rear seat, the child may ride in
the front seat of the vehicle if the passenger-side air bag is deactivated or
if the vehicle is not equipped with a deactivation switch for the
passenger-side air bag.
(b) Children one year of age through four years of age,
regardless of weight, or children who weigh forty pounds, regardless of age,
shall be properly secured in a child passenger restraint device that meets
federal standards.
(c) Children five years of age through six years of
age, regardless of weight, or children who weigh less than sixty pounds,
regardless of age, shall be properly secured in either a child booster seat or
an appropriate child passenger restraint device that meets federal standards.
(d) Children seven years of age through 12 years of age
shall be secured in a child passenger restraint device or by a seat belt.
(3)
Vehicles used for transporting children will be enclosed and properly
maintained. Vehicles shall be cleaned and inspected inside and out.
(4) Vehicles operated by the center to transport
children shall be air-conditioned whenever the outside air temperature exceeds
82 degrees fahrenheit.
If the outside air temperature falls below 50 degrees fahrenheit the center will ensure the vehicle is
heated.
(5) A center will load and unload children at the
curbside of the vehicle or in a protected parking area or driveway. The
center will ensure children do not cross a street unsupervised after leaving
the vehicle.
(6) No one will smoke in a vehicle used for
transporting children.
(7) A second adult will accompany the driver of the
vehicle when a center transports five or more children under age five years.
(8) Children may be transported only in vehicles that
have current registration and insurance coverage. All drivers must have
current driver’s license and comply with motor vehicle and traffic laws.
Persons who have been convicted in the last seven years of a misdemeanor or
felony DWI/DUI cannot transport children under the auspices of a licensed
facility/program.
B. FIELD
TRIPS:
(1) A center will ensure the children’s safety on
field trips and excursions. See Subparagraph (h) of Paragraph (1) of
Subsection E of 8.16.2.22 NMAC for requirements for permission slips.
(2) Children will not go to a private residence unless
accompanied by two adults.
C. PETS:
(1) A center will inform parents or guardians in
writing before pets are allowed in the center.
(2)
A center will not allow pets in the kitchen, food serving, food storage areas,
bathrooms, or infant room.
(3) A center will inoculate any pets as prescribed by a
veterinarian and keep a record of proof of inoculation prior to the pet’s
presence in the center.
(4) A center will not allow on the premises pets or
other animals that are undomesticated, dangerous, contagious or vicious in
nature.
(5) Areas of confinement, such as cages and pens, and
outdoor areas are cleaned of excrement daily. Animals shall be properly housed,
fed and maintained in a safe, clean sanitary and humane condition at all times.
(6) A staff member must be physically present during
the handling of all pets or other animals.
D. CARE AND
SERVICES FOR CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS:
(1) Child care facilities are responsible for staff
awareness of community resources for families of children with disabilities,
including children under the age of five years as well as those of school
age. If a child is suspected of having a disability, at the
center’s discretion, staff must inform parents of possible resources for
referral and assistance. No referral for special needs services to an
outside agency will be made without a parent’s consent. Family Education
Right and Privacy Act (FERPA) will be respected at all times.
(2) Child care facilities are responsible for staff
awareness of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) as it relates to
enrolling and caring for children with disabilities.
E.
INFANTS AND TODDLERS:
(1) A center will not admit any child under the age of
six weeks except with the written approval of a licensed physician.
(2) A center will care for children under age two years
in rooms separate from those used by older children. Children age six
weeks to 12 months may be in the same room with children age 13 to 24 months,
when they are physically separated from the older children. A center may
group toddlers ages 18 to 24 months with children ages
24 through 35 months.
(3) Throughout the day, a caregiver will give each
infant and toddler physical contact and attention. A caregiver will hold,
talk to, sing to and take inside and outside walks with the child. A
caregiver will respond immediately to all cries of infants and to the cries of
all children within two minutes.
(4) A caregiver will use routine activities such as nap
time, feeding, diapering and toileting as opportunities for language
development and other learning.
(5) Infants shall not be allowed to be confined to one
area for prolonged periods of time unless the infant is content and responsive.
(6) Each infant shall be allowed to form and observe
his/her own pattern of feeding, sleeping and waking periods.
(7) A center will arrange the sleeping and play areas
so that children in the play area do not disturb sleeping children.
(8) Infants shall either be held or fed sitting up for
bottle-feeding. Infants unable to sit shall always be held for
bottle-feeding. Infants and toddlers shall not be placed in a laying
position while drinking bottles or sippy cups. The
carrying of bottles and sipper cups by young children throughout the day or
night shall not be permitted.
(9) Foods served will meet the nutritional needs of the
infant or toddler. Foods will be developmentally appropriate for each
infant served.
(10) A center shall provide an evacuation crib.
F.
DIAPERING AND TOILETING:
(1) A caregiver will plan toilet training with a parent
so the toilet routine is consistent. A center will not attempt to toilet
train a child who is not developmentally ready.
(2) A center will change wet and soiled diapers and
clothing promptly. Staff members will wear non-porous, single-use gloves
when changing a diaper and wash their hands after changing a diaper.
(3) A center will have a change of clothes on hand,
including dry, clean clothing and diapers sufficient to meet the needs of each
child. A center will label diapers and diapering supplies for each child
and store them properly. Diaper bags will be inaccessible to
children. Soiled diapers will be stored in a secure container with a
tight-fitting lid to assure proper hygiene and control of odors.
(4) A caregiver will change a child’s diaper on a
clean, safe, waterproof surface and discard any disposable cover and disinfect
the surface after each diaper change.
G. EQUIPMENT:
(1)
Cribs will meet federal standards and be kept in good repair. The center
will not use plastic bags or lightweight plastic sheeting to cover a mattress
and will not use pillows in cribs. Stacking cribs is prohibited.
(2) Toys and equipment must be safe, durable, and easy
to clean, non-toxic and disinfected daily. Toys that are mouthed by
infants and toddlers will be cleaned after mouthing by one child before other
children do the same.
(3) A center will not use accordion-style baby gates.
H. NIGHT
CARE:
(1) A center that provides night care will have 50
square feet of activity area per child for night care.
(2) Staff will be awake and immediately available to
children who need attention during the night.
(3) The beds and cots provided for children shall be
completely furnished with mattress, waterproof mattress protectors, sheets
under and over the child, blanket, pillow and pillowcase.
(4) Linens shall be changed immediately in case of
soiling.
(5) The same menu shall not be used for lunch and
supper.
I.
ACCREDITED CENTERS: Accredited centers must meet and maintain all licensing
standards and their CYFD-approved national accreditation without a lapse in
order to continue to receive augmented child care reimbursement rates. The
licensing authority may, at its option, notify the center’s accrediting
body of the center’s failure to meet and maintain licensing standards.
[8.16.2.28 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.27 NMAC,
06/30/10]
8.16.2.29
BUILDING, GROUNDS AND SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:
A.
HOUSEKEEPING:
(1) A center will keep the premises, including
furniture, fixtures, floors, drinking fountains, toys and equipment clean,
safe, disinfected and in good repair. The center and premises will be free of
debris and potential hazards.
(2) Materials dangerous to children must be secured in
a manner making them inaccessible to children and away from food storage or
preparation areas.
(3) All garbage and refuse receptacles in kitchens and
in outdoor areas will be durable, constructed of materials that will not absorb
liquids and have tight fitting lids.
B. PEST
CONTROL:
(1) All licensed child care centers must use a New
Mexico licensed applicator whenever applying pesticides on the center’s
buildings or grounds.
(2) The licensed applicator may not apply pesticides
when children are on the premises.
(3) Parents, guardians, and staff must be notified at
least two days prior to spraying or applying pesticides.
(4) All food storage, preparation, and serving areas
must be covered and protected from spraying or application of pesticides.
C. MECHANICAL
SYSTEMS:
(1) A center will maintain comfortable temperatures (68
degrees through 82 degrees fahrenheit)
in all rooms used by children. A center may use portable fans if the fans
are secured and inaccessible to children and do not present any tripping,
safety or fire hazards. In the event air temperature in a center exceeds
the 82 degrees fahrenheit in
the summer months because of evaporative cooler temperature limitations, it
will be verified that cooling equipment is functioning, is being maintained,
and that supplemental aides have been employed, such as, but not limited to:
ceiling fans, portable fans, or portable evaporative coolers.
(2) A center must maintain all heating and cooling
equipment so that it is in good working order.
(3) A center will not use un-vented heaters, open flame
heaters or portable heaters. A center will install barriers or take other steps
to ensure heating units are inaccessible to children. Heating units include hot
water pipes, hot water baseboard heaters hotter than 110 degrees fahrenheit, fireplaces, fireplace
inserts and wood stoves.
(4) A center will provide fresh air and control odors
by either mechanical or natural ventilation. If a center uses a window for
ventilation, it will have a screen. If a door is used for fresh air
ventilation, it must have a screen door.
(5) Water coming from a faucet will be below 110
degrees (fahrenheit).
A center will install a tempering valve ahead of all domestic water-heater
piping.
D. WATER AND
WASTE: All food preparation areas, sinks, washrooms, laundries, bathrooms
and any self-contained area for infants and toddlers in diapers will have hot
and cold running water pressure.
E.
LIGHTING, LIGHTING FIXTURES AND ELECTRICAL:
(1) All areas will have sufficient glare-free lighting
with shatterproof or shielded bulbs.
(2) A center will have emergency lighting that turns on
automatically when electrical service is disrupted.
(3) Use of electrical cords and outlets:
(a)
A center will use U/L approved equipment only and will properly maintain this
equipment.
(b) All electrical outlets within reach of children will
be safety outlets or will have protective covers.
(c)
The use of multi-prong or gang plugs is prohibited. Surge protectors are
not gang plugs under these regulations.
F.
EXITS AND WINDOWS:
(1) When an activity area does not have a door directly
to the outside, at least one window in each activity area must be able to be
opened for emergency egress with a minimum net clear opening of 5.7 square
feet. The minimum net clear opening for height dimension must be 24
inches. The minimum net clear opening width dimension must be 20 inches,
and the finished sill height must not be more than 44 inches above the floor.
(2) There must be at least two exits remote from each
other in each activity area of the center.
(a)
All exits must be marked, including fire exits, by signs having letters at
least six inches high whose principal strokes are at least three-fourths of an
inch wide.
(b) When illuminated exit signs are installed they must
be maintained in operable condition.
(3) Exit ways must be kept free from obstructions at
all times.
(4) Activity areas for children must have windows or
skylight area of at least one-twentieth of the floor area.
G. TOILET AND
BATHING FACILITIES:
(1) A center will have one sink with hot and cold
running water in any self-contained room for infants and one toilet and one
sink for a self-contained toddler room or a combination toddler/infant room.
This sink will not be used for food preparation. The toilet designated
for the self-contained toddler room or combination toddler/infant room shall be
used exclusively by these children.
(2) All toilet rooms will have toilet paper, soap and
disposable towels at a height accessible to children. A center will not
use a common towel or wash cloth.
(3) All closets and bathroom locks must have an outside
release. A center will enclose all bathrooms. Bathrooms must be accessible and
functional.
(4) Toilets and lavatories must be provided in the
following ratios:
(a) one toilet and one
lavatory for one to 12 children;
(b)
two toilets and two lavatories for 13 through 25
children;
(c) one toilet and one
lavatory for each additional 15 children or fraction thereof;
(d) when a center’s
capacity exceeds 30 children a separate toilet room must be provided for staff.
H. SAFETY
COMPLIANCE:
(1) A center will conduct at least one fire drill each
month.
(2) A center will:
(a) hold the drills at different times of the day;
(b) use the fire alarm or
detector system; and
(c) emphasize an orderly
rather than a speedy evacuation;
(d) a center will keep a record of the fire drills with the
date, time, number of adults and children participating, and any problems
encountered during the fire drill on file for at least 12 months;
(e) a center shall request an annual fire inspection from
the fire authority having jurisdiction over the center; if the policy of the
fire authority having jurisdiction does not provide for an annual inspection of
the center, the center must document the date the request was made and to whom;
a copy of the latest inspection must be posted in the center;
(f) a center will post an
evacuation plan in each room used by children;
(g) a center will keep a telephone in an easily accessible
place for calling for help in an emergency and will post emergency phone
numbers for fire, police, ambulance and the poison control center next to the
phone; a center will not use a pay phone to fulfill this requirement; if
cordless phones are used, emergency numbers shall be posted on the phone
itself; facilities shall post the center’s telephone number and address
in a conspicuous location next to the emergency phone numbers; a center shall
have at least one corded phone or cell phone for use in the case of a power
outage;
(h) a center must be equipped with an approved, manually
operated alarm system or other continuously sounding alarm approved in writing
by the fire authority having jurisdiction;
(i) a
center must be equipped with smoke detectors approved in writing by the fire
authority having jurisdiction as to number, type, and placement;
(j) a center must have a minimum of two 2A10BC fire extinguishers,
one located in the kitchen or food preparation area, and one centrally located
in the center; and
(k) fire extinguishers, alarm systems, automatic detection
equipment, and other fire fighting must be properly maintained and inspected on
a least yearly basis; fire extinguishers must be tagged noting the date
of inspection; see Paragraph (2) of Subsection E of 8.16.2.29 NMAC for
emergency lighting requirements.
I.
SMOKING, FIREARMS, ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES, ILLEGAL DRUGS
AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES: A center will prohibit smoking in all areas,
including vehicles, and will not allow any alcoholic beverages, firearms, or
non-prescription controlled substances (drugs) on the premises or in
vehicles. Possessing or knowingly permitting illegal drugs or
non-prescription controlled substances to be possessed or sold on the premises
at any time regardless of whether children are present is prohibited.
[8.16.2.29 NMAC - Rp, 8.16.2.28 NMAC,
06/30/10]
Schedule C - Staff Orientation Verification Form
STAFF ORIENTATION VERIFICATION FORM
Name__________________________________________ Date of Hire ___________________
|
I
_____________________________ have been educated regarding routine precautions
to prevent transmission of blood-borne pathogens.
I
_____________________________ understand that all information regarding all
clients and file material for this program are strictly confidential. This means that any and all information that
I may derive by working in the program regarding any clients or their families
should not be discussed or transferred in any way to those outside of the
program.
____________________________________ ________________
Staff signature Date