Site Assistant Handbook

Click here to download the 2008-2009 Site Assistant Handbook  (MS Word)

As Site Assistants, you are the most critical link in the happiness of the children, satisfaction of the parents, and the success of our program. The children look to you for guidance and use you as role models for their emotional, behavioral, and social growth. Each child’s welfare and safety is in our hands.

We are very pleased to have you join our team. You are representing not only Adventure Club, but also MU’s College of Education. The enthusiasm, hard work and loyalty you display will contribute in making the Adventure Club program a safe and happy place for children.

During your employment with Adventure Club please keep in mind our purpose statement, “to enhance the growth and development of children, families, staff, and the communities we serve”.

This staff handbook is a valid part of the contract you accepted when you were hired. Utilize this handbook as a guide in your job and to help you understand our policies and the expectations we have of you as a University and Adventure Club employee. Welcome aboard!

Welcome to Adventure Club...

As Site Assistants, you are the most critical link in the happiness of the children, satisfaction of the parents, and the success of our program. The children look to you for guidance and use you as role models for their emotional, behavioral, and social growth. Each child's welfare and safety is in our hands.

We are very pleased to have you join our team. You are representing not only Adventure Club, but also MU's College of Education. The enthusiasm, hard work and loyalty you display will contribute in making the Adventure Club program a safe and happy place for children.

During your employment with Adventure Club please keep in mind our purpose statement, "to enhance the growth and development of children, families, staff, and the communities we serve"

This staff handbook is a valid part of the contract you accepted when you were hired. Utilize this handbook as a guide in your job and to help you understand our policies and the expectations we have of you as a University and Adventure Club employee. Welcome aboard!

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Adventure Club Purpose Statement

"To enhance the growth and development of children1, families2, staff3 and the communities4 we serve."

Our purpose is 4-fold:

1. Adventure Club is enthusiastic about providing quality before and after school programming for children. We work diligently to offer enriching activities that enhance the development of children socially, emotionally, cognitively, and physically.
2. Adventure Club is a program dedicated to families. Family outreach and education is achieved through a variety of avenues. These include parent centers, newsletters, partnerships with programs such as Parentlink, parent functions, and occasional fundraisers.
3. As a part of the College of Education at MU, we recognize our responsibility to enhance the education of our Site Assistants. Our goal is to help them grow both personally and professionally by providing valuable work experience and professional mentoring.
4. As a part of the University of Missouri, Columbia Public Schools, and the local community, Adventure Club strives to create and enhance productive relationships within the Columbia community.

A Statement of Values

The University of Missouri-Columbia - Adventure Club sets forth these values to be the foundation of our program. We pledge ourselves to upholding these values each and every day.

Education

Opportunities to learn are ever-present. We strive to educate our children, parents and the Adventure Club team through enriching activities and on-going professional development.

Relationships

Strong relationships between families, staff, and the community exist through communication, teamwork and support. Building these connections enables us to reach our full potential. By modeling respect, supporting positive interactions, and creating additional opportunities for involvement, we enhance the experiences of all involved with the program.

Diversity

Because diversity is the difference between a good program and an excellent program, we embrace it by offering a variety of activities inspired by the combined knowledge from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences and cultures.

Discovery

Discovery is an essential part of one's growth and development. Through innovative programming, life-shaping opportunities, and interactions with others, children discover the world around them while the staff and families gain experience in the adventure of guiding children toward discovery.

Pride

The pride of an organization is revealed in the caliber of staff, the quality of programming, and the extent of community contributions. We continually exhibit great integrity and thoughtfulness in the services we provide to instill a feeling of pride in all individuals involved with the program.

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Program Components

Introduction to Adventure Club

Adventure Club is a licensed before and after school program administered through the University of Missouri’s College of Education for grades K-5 at 18 Columbia Public Elementary Schools. Adventure Club has been established to help meet the need of quality programming in our community. We provide hands-on educational and recreational activities for children in a safe and nurturing environment. Opportunities for decision-making, individual and team achievement, self-esteem and life skill development are central to our mission. Kids may participate in one of our 100 clubs each week and explore sea life, sculpting, Harry Potter, volcanoes, cooking, nutrition, poetry, computers, foreign language, careers, operating a business, sports/fitness, music, the arts, community service, games and so much more!

Adventure Club takes pride in its high quality staff, including a Program Director, Assistant Director, Program Coordinator, Senior Site Facilitator, Office Manager, Assistant Office Manager, Registration Specialist, and a friendly Receptionist. Each school has a Site Facilitator who is in charge of his/her specific program: all full-time Site Facilitators have college degrees and are leading the way in improving the program through their expertise. All Site Assistants have a minimum of 60 college credit hours, including 12 hours in child related course work and experience working with groups of children. Site Assistants are primarily students in the College of Education who are seeking additional experience working with children. Over the course of a year, approximately 250 part-time staff members facilitate activities with the 950+ children enrolled in the program. The ratio of staff to children is 1:12. Adventure Club currently has state accredited programs and several are seeking national accreditation.

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Adventure Club Contact Numbers

Adventure Club Main Office - 884-2582

Site Telephone Numbers

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Adventure Club Organizational Chart

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Site Assistant Job Description

Qualifications:

• Assistants must be 18 and a H.S. graduate.
• Child related experience preferred.

Adventure Club has high expectations for its staff and their conduct. We strive to provide excellent programming for the children and families we serve and our Site Assistants are key to our success. Your attitude, performance and initiative are direct reflections of your credibility and of the University of Missouri-Adventure Club’s quality.

Site Responsibilities

• Ensure the safety of the children at all times while maintaining a fun and engaging atmosphere
• Interact and develop positive relationships with all children and parents
• Follow the daily schedule of the program and be consistent in all interactions with the children
• Lead and participate in small and large group activities, including weekly Jumpstart Our Learning Time (JOLT) educational activities
• Enforce safety rules and assist the children in problems-solving issues
• Intervene when children are likely to injure themselves or others
• Take initiative during activities and when handling behavioral issues
• Assist in preparation and maintenance of program materials
• Document and discuss individual child behavior
• Communicate with parents and school personnel
• Work together as a team with Site Facilitator and co-workers to ensure consistent and quality programming
• Know and follow licensing, accreditation, and school procedures to safeguard the health and safely of the children, including hand washing, sanitary measures, playground rules and rules regarding the use of supplies and equipment
• Be familiar with the children’s files [Individual Education Plan (IEP), Special Needs, Medical Conditions]
• Know the tornado, fire, and other emergency procedures
• Know and follow all Adventure Club policies and procedures

Adventure Club Expectations

• Arrive to site at 6:45 a.m. and 3:15 p.m. for set up. Remain at site until all children have left and the area is returned to school specifications, unless the Site Facilitator has given special permission.
• MU and Columbia Public Schools (CPS) follow different calendars. Site Assistants will follow the CPS’s calendar.This entails working after finals week until CPS ends each semester and returning in January when school resumes. Adventure Club does not operate the week of Thanksgiving and Spring Break.
• Complete accreditation requirements by providing transcripts, evaluating the program, and completing required paperwork needed to obtain accreditation
• Provide a copy of class and/or other job schedules as needed
• Attend four hours of professional development per semester. Trainings must be progressive/continual throughout the semester
• Obtain adult and child CPR/First Aid certification within three months of hiring date
• Obtain a current TB and Physical within 2 weeks of employment and update TB yearly
• Complete a FBI background check and if required a FBI finger print check
• If required, attend CCOT training (Child Care Orientation Training) mandated by licensing
• Update timesheet daily for accuracy; turn in signed sheet bi-weekly
• Attend all staff meetings as scheduled
• Cell phones should not be brought to work
• Adhere to Adventure Club’s dress code:
  • SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
  • Wear comfortable shoes and keep them tied
  • Torn or dirty clothes are not acceptable
  • Shorts may be worn but must be longer than your fingertips when your arms are stretched straight down
  • Strapless or spaghetti strap, or low cut shirts are inappropriate
  • Jeans must be worn so that undergarments or skin is not visible while bending over
  • Lip, nose, and eyebrow rings are not permitted
  • Flannel PJ’S are not permitted
  • T-shirts with pictures of liquor or suggestive talk will not be tolerated
  • No hats should be worn
  • When choosing work wardrobe, staff should keep in mind that the job can be messy and that they will be sitting on the floor
• Additional duties as needed

Our Purpose: To enhance the growth of the children, families, staff and the communities we serve.

http://adventureclub.missouri.edu/

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Let's Get Started

Adventure Club Orientation

Employment with our program constitutes an understanding that you will abide by the policies and procedures listed in the Site Assistant handbook.

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Goals of Adventure Club

The Adventure Club program will offer a variety of activities which include recreation and games, arts and crafts, music, dramatic play, time to work on homework, and “free time” for the children to pursue their own interests in a safe and caring environment. All children will be encouraged to learn, to live, and to work comfortably with others.

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Lets Get Started

I can get off to a good start my first Semester of work if . . .

• I learn about and understand my program.
• I learn about and understand my responsibilities (e.g. overall responsibilities, personnel policies, responsibilities for planning, gathering materials, setting up, leading activities, supervising areas, supervising specific children, relationship with co-workers, who I report to, who I can ask for help, interacting with parents, participating in training, etc.)
• I learn and use strategies for building positive relationships with kids from the first moment
  • Greeting each child with a friendly smile
  • Using nametags and using names when talking with children to help me learn them.
  • Learning an attention-getting strategy.
  • Expressing enthusiasm and excitement about what we'll do together.
  • Inviting children to share ideas.
  • Talking with children about how they want to be treated and how to treat others.
  • Talking with children about established rules and involving them in creating and shaping rules,limits, and consequences.
  • Being prepared with all the resources I need to lead an activity.
  • Using my program's system for tracking attendance and whereabouts of children.
  • Releasing children ONLY to authorized persons.

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Expectations

SITE ASSISTANT'S EXPECTATIONS OF ADVENTURE CLUB PROGRAM...

• To work in a supportive environment.
• To be provided with experiences that lead to growth and development.
• To be provided with opportunities to gain basic practical working knowledge of working with school age children.
• To be evaluated each semester on progress and have dialogue about strengths and areas of growth.

ADVENTURE CLUB'S EXPECTATIONS OF THE SITE ASSISTANTS...

• Smile and have fun while you keep the children safe.
• Be nurturing and understanding.
• Share enthusiasm and enjoyment of being with children.
• Safety is your #1 goal.
• Remember you are a powerful role model for children.
• Respect children. The best way to get respect is to give it.
• Always keep the needs of children in mind.
• Be involved with children. Be a doer, not a watcher.
• Remember that children are basically good; yet, some of their choices may not be. One of your main jobs is to help them make good choices.
• Communicate and greet parents on a regular basis.
• Always follow and assist in enforcing program policies.
• Be on time and reliable.
• Work the CPS calendar, even when the University is not in session

CHILDREN'S EXPECTATIONS OF ADVENTURE CLUB...

• To have a safe, nurturing, and consistent environment.
• To use all of the programs equipment, materials, and facilities on an equal basis.
• To receive respectful treatment from adults and other children in Adventure Club.
• To be disciplined fairly and in a non-punitive manner.
• To receive care from staff members who are actively involved with them.
• To feel welcomed and respected by all staff and children.
• To make choices and take responsibility for actions.
• To experience success and have FUN!!!

ADVENTURE CLUB'S EXPECTATIONS OF THE CHILDREN...

• Be responsible for their actions.
• Respect the school rules that guide them during the day and while attending Adventure Club.
• Remain with the group and Adventure Club staff at all times.
• Take care of materials and equipment properly and return them to their proper place when finished.
• Arrive at the program promptly, according to the enrollment form.
• Share equipment, take turns, and cooperate with others.
• Develop and use social skills.
• Feel comfortable choosing appropriate options when solving problems.
• Be willing to participate in both large and small group games.
• Express emotions in an appropriate manner.
• Use appropriate language.
• Treat staff and other children with respect.
• Be responsible for all personal belongings.
• Develop and use appropriate manners.

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Curriculum and Clubs

• The Adventure Club curriculum is based on state and national accreditation standards. The schedule combines structure and choices. Each schedule is site specific but will always include the following: snack time, recess, Jump Start Our Learning Time (JOLT), and free/choice time.
• JOLT is unique to Adventure Club in that we provide a structured learning time with a creative approach. Children may participate in the following:
  • Homework Help: Children may work on homework with the assistance of a staff person. Parents and teachers may request children to complete homework during this time or children may voluntarily make this choice.
  • Clubs: Clubs are theme-based learning activities that change weekly. Children participate in activities that incorporate science experiments, arts/crafts, manipulatives, fine/gross motor skills, music and chants, reading, math solving, and even foreign language. The clubs change weekly and activities correspond to the monthly newsletter and calendar of events.
  • Technology: Children may choose to play educational games on the site's laptop, or use any other electronic equipment. Some sites may also have access to a computer lab as well.
  • Literacy Activities: Children may also sit in the quiet area and enjoy a book, work on writing or listen to others reading.
  • Other Educational Activities: Other educational activities will be approved or determined by the Site Facilitator

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General/Personnel Policies & Procedures

Terms of Employment

PROCESS OF EMPLOYMENT:

• A written position job description will be available to all applicants for their review prior to employment.
• Any written notices or advertisements will state EEO/ADA (Equal Employment Opportunity & American Disabilities Act) commitments by the program.
• Staffing is based on yearly needs and the limitations of the program budget.
• Any additions or changes to the staff handbook will be provided to the staff 10 days prior to the implementation of the policy except where safety is concerned.

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PROBATIONARY EMPLOYMENT:

• Site Assistants will serve a probationary period of four months. Following the completion of the probationary period, the Site Facilitator will evaluate them. If a dismissal needs to occur during the probationary period, legally, no reason needs to be given. If a Site Assistant decides to terminate his/her employment, two weeks written notice must be given.

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PERSONAL PRIVACY:

• Each employee shall have access to any information about him/her in program records, except confidential employment references, and shall have the right to know how such information is being used.
• Each employee shall have the right to record what he/ she deems to be corrections in the records.

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EMPLOYEE RECORDS (Some of the records are held in the College of Education personnel office.):

• A confidential folder shall be maintained for each employee and shall contain the following information:
  • Employment application, letter, and forms
  • References
  • An Employment Eligibility Verification Form
  • A current physical and TB form signed by a physician
  • A training/ professional development form documenting ongoing training, college courses and conference attendance (min. 8 hrs. annually)
  • Correspondence relating to the employee
  • Record of employment and termination dates
  • Record of salary adjustments
  • Evaluation records
  • Record of exit interview
  • Requests for references

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SUPERVISION AND PERFORMANCE EVALUATIONS

• Supervision is received directly from the Site Facilitator. Additional supervision and directives may be received from Adventure Club Administrative Staff as situations arise.
• Employees will be evaluated each semester to determine employment status and performance.
• All staff is evaluated on a regular basis. The Site Facilitators evaluate Site Assistants each semester. Site Assistants evaluate Site Facilitators each semester. The Administrative Staff evaluates the Site Facilitators annually. The Director is evaluated by the Associate Dean for the College of Education and members of the staff. The Director and staff members evaluate the Assistant Director, Office Manager and Program Coordinator annually.
• Verbal and written performance evaluations are also given when problems exist, to improve communication and facilitate conflict resolution.

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WAGE AND SALARY INFORMATION

• Each pay period equals two weeks. Checks are written by the University of Missouri payroll department and must be deposited directly into an account. Time sheets must be completed on the Site Laptop daily and be printed, signed and ready to be turned in to the Adventure Club Office every other Thursday morning. The EXACT time of arrival and departure needs to be recorded. Do not fill in shifts prior to working them. It is the responsibility of the Site Facilitator to check accuracy daily, make necessary corrections, and turn the time sheets in to the Adventure Club Office. If an employee’s time sheet is inaccurate on a consistent basis, it may be grounds for dismissal. Time sheets that are incomplete, not signed, or not turned in on time may result in paycheck delays of two weeks. Any time recorded beyond programming shifts/hours (6:45-8:30 or 3:15-6:00), needs to be indicated with an M for meeting, or LP for late parent.
• Upon yearly approval and budgetary feasibility, Adventure Club will offer incentive pay to the part-time staff (i.e. Site Assistants and Part-time Facilitators) for the hours worked during break programming. Break programming is considered to be the time frames in which the University of Missouri is not in session and Columbia Public Schools and Adventure Club are (some exceptions apply). The actual start dates of the incentive pay may vary depending on payroll deadlines as we are unable to pay two different rates of pay during the same pay period.
• Salary payments are subject to legally required withholdings. Salary adjustments and raises may be made annually effective September 1, depending on MU annual budget recommendations.

MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT

• Adventure Club will reimburse part-time staff working at locations that are equal to or exceed nine miles from the University of Missouri campus. Part-time staff will be reimbursed nine miles each way (eighteen miles per shift) if working at Midway Adventure Club and fourteen miles each way (twenty-eight miles per shift) if working at Two Mile Adventure Club. The rate of reimbursement is $0.25 per mile. Part-time staff will complete and turn in a University of Missouri Travel – Trip Detail for each two week period that coincides with the pay period. The Travel – Trip Detail will be turned in with their Time Sheets.

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WORKERS COMPENSATION

• Worker’s Compensation is paid for each employee as part of the University of Missouri staff benefits. If an injury occurs while at work, the report must be written immediately and submitted to the Adventure Club Office within 24 hours. If an injury occurs and medical attention is necessary, you must proceed to the proper facility (see below) and tell them you work for the University, not Adventure Club. You will not be covered if you go to your personal physician. If the injury occurs between 6:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., employees should go to Work Injury Services (WIS), MC-11 University Hospital. Located in the basement of University Hospital - parking in patient garage right outside the door. (No appointment necessary) If injured after 4:30 p.m. or before WIS is open, employees should wait until WIS is open; however, if immediate care is needed, they should proceed to Urgent Care with follow-up at WIS. If Urgent Care is closed, they may go to University Hospital ER with follow-up at WIS.

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GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

• Staff is encouraged, in a climate of teamwork and mutual respect, to reconcile their differences. If this effort fails, the Site Facilitator, Director or Assistant Director may intervene.
  • If a Site Assistant wants to file a grievance, take the following steps:
    1. Write a letter outlining the situation of concern, the effect on the program, and when and how it was addressed with the person in which is being grieved.
    2. Describe a solution or conclusion to the grievance.
    3. Include times of availability and how you can be reached.
    4. Turn in to an administrative staff at the main office.

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VIOLATIONS AND SEPARATION PROCEDURES

• Violations:
  • An infraction of safety procedures and policies.
  • Failure to obtain required training hours for licensing and/or accreditation.
• Voluntary Separations:
  • The staff member must submit a written termination notice at least two weeks prior to separation from the program. The notice will be filed in the staff member’s personnel file.
• Involuntary Separations:
  • Involuntary separations due to reorganization, retrenchment of the program, or other circumstances arising out of no fault of the employee, are at the discretion of the Director. Either party may terminate the employment contract with written notice provided 10 working days in advance.
  • Dismissal for cause may take place upon written notice from the administrative staff. Reasons may be for any of the following:
    • Unexcused absences and tardiness
    • Unsatisfactory performance
    • Misconduct/ Violation of University rules
    • Misuse/destruction of University property
    • Quitting without notice

    If an employee has been terminated for one of the above reasons, they may be ineligible for employment with the University of Missouri-Columbia for one (1) year from the date of the termination. After the one (1) year period, the former employee must be able to demonstrate a good work record with another employer in order to be eligible for consideration for reemployment with the University.

  • In the event the dismissal is for cause, the Director may terminate employment without notice; compensation to the employee will be at the discretion of the Director.

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SCHEDULES & WORKING HOURS

• All staff must report to the site at 6:45 A.M. for the morning shift and 3:15 P.M. for the afternoon shift and stay until the last child leaves and the room is clean, unless special approval has been given to do otherwise. It is not the Site Facilitator’s responsibility to set up and clean up – those tasks are delegated. The program runs on the same schedules as the Columbia Public Schools. Please note that MU’s schedule does not always coincide with the CPS’s schedule. Staff members are required to work during these periods to provide consistency for the children, even if the University is not in session.
• Absence of Site Facilitator – When a Site Facilitator is absent, Site Assistants are expected to continue to operate the program following outlined procedure and protocol. One Site Assistant is typically left in charge to oversee the shift runs smoothly.
• Early Release Days – Approximately once a month children are dismissed at 1:15 from school therefore Adventure Club begins earlier. Site Assistants are required to work on these days given there aren’t any class conflicts. You will need to turn in your class schedule within the first week of your hire date to help determine your availability for early release days. Do not schedule other jobs or Doctor’s appointments, or other meetings on Early Release Days. Site Assistants may be asked by their Site Facilitator to help plan and prepare activities outside of regular site hours for Early Release Days.
• Break Programming – There are days when MU is not in session and CPS is still operating. All Site Assistants are required to work these days so as to meet the required licensing staff/child ratios and to maintain consistency within the Adventure Club program. Plan trips, vacations, and other jobs around Adventure Club hours. We need to look at Adventure Club as a whole, not just as individual sites. A request for time off form needs to be completed during break programming; approval will be dependent upon all sites being covered per licensing standards. Failure to work break programming dates could jeopardize your employment with Adventure Club.
• Holidays/ Vacations/ Snow Days – There are no paid holidays or vacations. Check the Columbia Public Schools calendar to determine when school is in session. Snow days are usually determined in the mornings by 6:00 a.m.; listen to the radio or watch TV to determine if school is in session. There is no pay for snow days.
• Emergency Closing Policy – In the case of severe snow/ice/heat or other emergency, Adventure Club may decide to close early. If this should happen, parents will be notified. Staff must remain onsite until all children have been picked up or otherwise dismissed.
• Time Off/Sick Days/Subs – There is no pay for days when an employee does not work. Staff members are discouraged from taking time off for personal reasons. Site Assistants must ask their Site Facilitator if it is okay to find a substitute. After receiving permission they must find their own substitute by asking co-workers from their site. If they are unable to find a sub from their site they may ask their Site Facilitator to make a request to the Assistant Director or Part-time Site Facilitator Mentor if they communicate their need at least 3 days in advance. Site Facilitators are expected to keep logs of staff absences and submit them with time sheets. Substitutes’ time sheets will reflect absences of employees. Misuse of substitutes is grounds for dismissal. The Sick Policy is as follows:
  1. Call your Site Facilitator in the event of illness (DO NOT call the main office if you are ill for the morning shift. No one is in the office until 8:00 AM. You need to speak with your Site Facilitator in person).
  2. Final decision of whether an excused absence will be granted is up to the Site Facilitator. This will depend on ratio count and severity of illness.
  3. For an afternoon illness absence, the Site Facilitator may request your assistance in calling for a substitute.
• Attendance Records of excused and unexcused absences will be kept. Failure to show up for work without a call and arrangement for a substitute is grounds for immediate dismissal. Any employee who demonstrates a poor attendance record is not benefiting the children, his/her coworkers, or the Adventure Club. Erratic attendance will not be tolerated.

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REQUIREMENTS OF EMPLOYMENT

• TB/Physicals – You must submit proof of having a physical and TB within the first two weeks of employment. It needs to be turned in to the Program Coordinator and failure to do so may result in suspension and/or dismissal.
• Staff Meetings – Staff meetings are critical to staff development and communication. On-site staff meetings are held every other week and are mandatory. You may be written up for missing a meeting. You will be paid for the time spent at staff meetings.
• Reporting – Site Facilitators occasionally request information from Site Assistants about the program. Staff is expected to provide such information as needed. Information is usually requested in concern with program improvement, accreditation paperwork, and licensing requirements.
• Hours Worked – As a University employee and full-time student, you may not work over 28 hours/week combined, for Adventure Club and any other campus job you hold. That means if you work for Adventure Club 14 hours/week, you can only work 14 hours/week at the other campus job.
• Training – Expectations and Consequences
  • Employees are required to obtain at least 4 hours of training each semester. These trainings must be progressive throughout the semester. Training opportunities will be available throughout the school year. You will be paid for all of your training hours. Some of those trainings may be the CCOT (Child Care Orientation Training) training that is required by licensing.
  • Site Assistants must also receive First Aid & Adult & Child CPR certification within three months of hire date in addition to the 4 training hours each semester. There is a limit of 12 students per instructor for these classes. You must sign up early to attend. If you show up to one of these trainings without instructor’s prior knowledge, you will be asked to leave and will need to sign up for a future training.
  • In order to receive credit for training, you must attend the entire training, thus arriving late or leaving early will forfeit all credit and may result in a write up.
  • Training attendees are expected to participate in training exercises, failure to do so may result in forfeited credit.
  • If you sign up for a training and find you cannot attend, you must notify the Program Coordinator at least 24 hours in advance or you will be subject to a write up.
  • If you have already attended training, you cannot attend the same training again and receive credit or hours.
  • Although Adventure Club will provide opportunities to attend trainings, it is ultimately the responsibility of the Site Assistant to insure he/she receives the required training hours. Failure to complete at least 4 hours of training each semester and failure to receive CPR/First Aid certification will result in termination from Adventure Club. Failure to meet training requirement will result in not only loss of employment, but an alert will be placed with your name within the University of Missouri system notifying those accessing your name that you failed to meet expectations for this position.
  • Other training opportunities are available in the community. Information on these trainings can be found by visiting the Child Care Connection website at www.childcareconnection.info. Site Assistants are responsible for paying any associated costs for attending these trainings, however Adventure Club pays Site Assistants for all time spent in training.

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Code of Conduct

Work Ethics

• Work Time: Work time is for work only. Behaviors which interfere with the work time will not be allowed. Staff are not permitted to leave work areas during work time without the permission of the Site Facilitator. Personal business such as phone calls, homework, etc may not be conducted during work time. Cell phones must either be left in your car or turned on vibrate, and then return the calls after completing the shift. Staff can give A.C. number for emergencies only.
• Work Performance: Employees are expected to put in a fair day’s work. Unsatisfactory work, poor performance, producing work below standards, or loafing jeopardizes the children and the staff.
• Role Model: Each staff should be a good role model for the children by doing the following: dresses appropriately, talks respectfully to adults and children, uses good grammar, and is aware of what is going on in other areas. Staff should stay busy and interact with children. Socializing among one another to build good staff relations is important, however, visiting once children arrive at the program should be keep to a minimum.
• Information Regarding Children: Confidentiality regarding information about a child and his or her family is essential. At no time during or following employment with Adventure Club may an employee discuss information about children, parents, or other employees.
• Care: All children, families, and visitors should be treated with kindness, friendliness, patience, and respect. Lap sitting, carrying children, and prolonged hugs are discouraged. Staff should refrain from gossip, loud talking, and other unnecessary forms of conduct which could disturb the program and detract from the professionalism of the program.
• Tobacco Products: No tobacco products are allowed on school property, and there are no smoke breaks.
• Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and other drug usage are not allowed at any time during work hours, nor is it permissible to have the odor of such drugs on the breath or person. Do not wear clothing with tobacco or alcohol advertisements.
• Punishment: Corporal punishment, verbal abuse, punishment which is humiliating or frightening, name calling, threats, and derogatory remarks about the child and his/her family are not permitted at any time.
• Equipment: Clubs and other equipment remain the property of Adventure Club. Failure to return all items to your site or the office as required will result in immediate dismissal. As per Assistant Vice Chancellor, “Please note that there are some situations where employees may be permanently ineligible for employment at the University. These are typically terminations of a very serious nature involving violence, harassment, fraud, embezzlement, theft, and other acts of misconduct that could be criminal in nature.”

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Dress Code

• SET A GOOD EXAMPLE
• Wear comfortable shoes and keep them tied.
• Torn or dirty clothes are not acceptable.
• Shorts may be worn but must be longer than your fingertips when your arms are stretched straight down.
• Strapless or spaghetti strap, or low cut shirts are inappropriate.
• Jeans must be worn so that undergarments or skin is not visible while bending over.
• Lip, nose, and eyebrow rings are not permitted.
• Flannel PJ’S are not permitted.
• T-shirts with pictures of liquor or suggestive talk will not be tolerated.
• No hats should be worn.
• When choosing work wardrobe, staff should keep in mind that the job can be messy and that they will be sitting on the floor.

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Code of Conduct Guidelines

When a group is working together, there must be a common "code of conduct" to ensure expectations are clear for all. The following actions are prohibited.

• Striking or abusing a child, humiliating a child, making a child feel shamed, endangering the life of a child, withholding food as a punishment.
• Abuse or inconsiderate treatment of families, staff, or visitors.
• Unauthorized removal of property.
• Falsifying time sheets.
• Refusal to perform assigned work or follow directions.
• Gross carelessness or negligence.
• Personal business should be conducted before or after scheduled shift (sleeping, phone calls, homework, visits from friends, etc.)

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Supervision of Children

• Preventing foreseeable risk of unreasonable harm.
• Checking equipment including playground surfaces and play areas for damage or possible problems. Do not allow children to play in problem areas and notify the Site Facilitator.
• Actively supervise the children.
• Continuously scan the entire area, moving from area to area if necessary. Remember to concentrate on the whole group of children and not just one or two.
• Keep your back to the perimeter of the area; always face the group.
• Children should never be left alone or unsupervised at any time.
• Intensified supervision is required during higher-risk activities and additional attention must be devoted to
  • Preventative measures that can reduce the risk of harm
  • Visual and auditory cues from the group and individuals
  • Proximity to activity
  • Request for additional staff support if necessary

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Opportunities for Advancement

Part-time Site Facilitator Positions
Some Adventure Club programs are coordinated and run by Part-time Site Facilitators. These programs are at the smaller schools, with a maximum of 30 children enrolled. The Part-time Site Facilitators are typically Site Assistants who have been promoted because of high-quality performance, exceptional devotion to the program, initiative to learn program operations while as a Site Assistant, and the desire to take the next step up administratively.

Site Assistants have the opportunity to apply for the Part-time Site Facilitator positions as they become available. To be considered for the position, Adventure Club requires the following:

1. Application for the position
2. Recommendation from your Site Facilitator
3. 6-12 credit hours in child-related course work (for some of the positions)
4. 60 hours of semester credit
5. The time and commitment to the program and the desire to run a quality program.
6. Knowledge of program structure, behavior management, and policy and procedures.
7. Completion of the Part-Time Site Facilitator Checklist.

Summer Employment
Adventure Club offers summer camp programming to our families and the general community. If you are interested in positions for the summer, you will receive information regarding employment at the end of the school year.

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Licensing & Accreditation Guidelines

Introduction Throughout the year your school will be following state licensing regulations as well as maintaining or working towards Accreditation. Listed in this section will be Licensing Guidelines; When Licensing Visits; and Accreditation Standards at a Glance. The material provided will help you to better understand Licensing and Accreditation. This material is brief; therefore you will need to consult with your Site Facilitator for further information regarding your site.

Licensing Guidelines

• Child Care License posted.
• Business card for Pam Osman – Director of Adventure Club & Day Care Licensing Representative.
• Current updated Staff schedule sheet posted.
• Fire and Tornado Drill sheet posted. Drills carried out monthly.
• Diagram explaining drill routes and locations
• Snack Menu Posted and followed each day.
• Tables cleaned using the 3-step method of using soap water, rinse water, and sanitizer solution.
• All emergency numbers posted
• Staff on site must be able to hear the phone at all times.
• Licensing requires a staff/child ratio of 1;16 be met at all times (Adventure Club strives to run on a 1;12 ratio)
• There must be a minimum of two staff present at all times – one of these being the Site Facilitator or Designated person in charge(Assistant Director)
• Only Adventure Club staff, 18 years and older, count in the staff/child ratio.
• Forms kept on site for EACH child in and individual folder:
  • Child Enrollment Form (Must be filled out COMPLETELY including street number and zip codes or the child cannot stay)
  • Permission for School-Age Child to leave facility (when needed).
  • Medication Authorization (when needed).
  • Injury/Incident report (when needed).
  • Sign in/out sheets prepared prior to the program day, and all students are signed/checked in. Absences are checked with the school office.
• Daily Activities MUST INCLUDE:
  • Developmentally appropriate play experiences.
  • Appropriate individual attention from and conversation with adult staff in the program.
  • A minimum of 30 minutes of outside play time each day (weather permitting).

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When Licensing Visits
When a licensing representative comes to visit your site, it is the Site Facilitator's responsibility to turn in a copy of the report that they leave to the Program Coordinator within 24 hours. The original report should be kept at the site.

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Accreditation

Many of the programs have obtained or are currently working towards achieving Accreditation through the National Afterschool Association (NAA). All Adventure Club programs are expected to operate utilizing accreditation standards.

The following are the NAA Standards at a Glance:

Human Relationships

1. Staff relate to all children and youth in positive ways.
2. Staff respond appropriately to individual needs of children and youth.
3. Staff encourage children and youth to make choices and to become more responsible.
4. Staff interact with children and youth to help them learn.
5. Staff use positive techniques to guide the behavior of children and youth.
6. Children and youth generally interact with one another in positive ways.
7. Staff and families interact with each other in positive ways.
8. Staff work well together to meet the needs of children and youth.

9. The program’s indoor space meets the needs of children and youth.
10. The indoor space allows children and youth to take initiative and explore their interests.

11. The outdoor play area meets the needs of children and youth, and the equipment allows them to be independent and creative.
    1. Each child has a chance to play outdoors for at least 30 minutes out of every three-hour block of time at the program.
    2. Children can use a variety of outdoor equipment and games for both active and quiet play.
    3. Permanent playground equipment is suitable for a wide variety of activities.

12. The daily schedule is flexible, and it offers enough security, independence, and stimulation to meet the needs of all children and youth.
13. Children and youth can choose from a wide variety of activities.
    1. There are regular opportunities for active, physical play.
14. Activities reflect the mission of the program and promote the development of all the children and youth in the program
15. There are sufficient materials to support program activities.

16. The safety and security of children an youth are protected.
17. The program provides an environment that protects and enhances the health of children and youth.
18. The program staff try to protect and enhance the health of children and youth.
19. Children and youth are carefully supervised to maintain safety.
20. The program serves food and drinks that meets the needs of children and youth. Administration
21. Staff-child ratios and group sizes permit the staff to meet the needs of children and youth.
22. Children and youth are supervised at all times.
23. Staff support families’ involvement in the program.
24. Staff, families, and schools share important information to support the well-being of children and youth.
25. The program builds links to the community.
26. The program’s indoor space meets the needs of staff.
27. The outdoor space is large enough to meet the needs of children, youth, and staff.
28. Staff, children, and youth work together to plan and implement suitable activities, which are consistent with the program’s philosophy.
29. Program policies and procedures are in place to protect the safety of children and youth.
30. Program policies exist to protect and enhance the health of all children and youth.
31. All staff are professionally qualified to work with children and youth.
32. Staff (paid, volunteer, and substitute) are given an orientation to the job before working with children and youth.
33. The training needs of the staff are assessed, and training is relevant to the responsibilities of each job. Assistant Group Leaders receive at least 15 hours of training annually. Group leaders receive at least 18 hours of training annually. Senior Group Leaders receive at least 21 hours of training annually. Site directors receive at least 24 hours of training annually. Program Administrators receive at least 30 hours of training annually.
34. Staff receives appropriate support to make their work experience positive.
35. The administration provides sound management of the program.
36. Program policies and procedures are responsive to the needs of children, youth, and families in the community.

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Program Policies

HOURS OF OPERATION

• The program follows the Columbia Public Schools calendar, and with notice, some school vacation days. The morning program operates from 7:00 a.m. to 8:30 a.m.; afternoon program runs from 3:45 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
• Staff is expected to arrive at 6:45 a.m. for morning shifts and 3:15 p.m. for afternoon shifts. Late arrivals will be documented by the Site Facilitator and submitted to the administrative staff for possible disciplinary action.

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MORNING OPENING AND AFTERNOON CLOSING TIMES

• The program opens at 7:00 a.m. Parents who drop their children off before 7:00 a.m. must be asked to sign an Early Arrival/Late Departure Form and will be charged an initial $5.00 fee plus $1.00 per minute per family they are early.
• The program closes at 6:00 p.m. Parents whose children remain past closing time must be asked to sign an Early Arrival/Late Departure Form and will be charged an initial $5.00 fee plus $1.00 per minute per family they are late.
• These forms must be turned in to the Administrative Associate for processing on the next month’s bill. Staff will be paid for the time worked. It is recommended that staff talk to parents and explain the opening and closing times, the procedures and implement the Early Arrival/Late Departure policy.
• Staff is expected to remain on site until all children are picked up and the facilities are returned to an appropriate condition. If there are late parents, staff is expected to complete the necessary paperwork on a consistent basis.

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ARRIVAL, DEPARTURE, AND RELEASE OF CHILDREN

• Children attending Adventure Club for the first time need to be shown around and familiarized with the schedule. If parents have not yet had an orientation to the program, staff are responsible for orienting parents/guardians at this time. Refer to “Parent Orientation Checklist” (pg. 28) for process and guidelines.
• Parents and other authorized individuals must sign the child(ren) in and out everyday with initials and a time. Only authorized individuals, 16 years and older, will be allowed to pick up a child from the program. No child will be released to leave with someone who is not an authorized pick up person on the child(ren)’s enrollment form. We check for photo identification if necessary. No child will be released to leave with someone who refuses to show identification when asked.Under no circumstance will Adventure Club allow a child to walk to Adventure Club or walk home without an authorized individual. The child must be signed in and out by an authorized individual each day.
• Staff are responsible for ensuring children arriving in the morning are signed in by an authorized person. Both parent and child should be greeted upon entering the program and spoken to throughout the arrival process. Once the AM program concludes, staff are responsible for transitioning children to the school’s care and signing all children out at the appropriate time.
• Staff are also responsible for documenting the arrival of children for the afternoon program. (see protocol for signing children in for further clarification)
• A child can leave the program at the end of the day only after a parent or other authorized person signs him or her out on the appropriate form. Only parents, guardians, or people authorized on the enrollment form and 16 years or older, are allowed to take the child from the school. Check the child’s file and ask for a picture ID if you do not know the person. Should any child be released to an unauthorized person it can lead to dismissal from the program.
• If a child attends an extracurricular activity, the parent or guardian must complete an Attendance Waiver Form and submit it to the Site Facilitator in advance.
• Program staff may not transport children to or from the facility unless authorized by parent/guardian to do so. Once the child has been signed out by an authorized individual (which may be a staff member), Adventure Club is not liable for any actions that befall that child. Staff members acting in this capacity are not affiliated with the University of Missouri - Adventure Club during this time. Under no circumstances are staff members allowed to transport children to field trips or other program events. Adventure Club utilizes First Student bussing.

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STAFF RATIOS AND GROUP SIZE

• Adventure Club maintains a staff to child ratio of 1:12. This ratio is intended to serve children both in large group as well as smaller divided groups.
• Adventure Club utilizes several spaces within the school environment, in these separate areas, the 1:12 ratio must be maintained; therefore group size is often determined by available staff and movement of children to different areas of the school.
• Special circumstances may arise in which the staff to child ratio will reach the licensing limit of one staff for every sixteen children. Examples of such occasions include early release days, break programming, and unavoidable staff absences.
• Site Assistants are expected to be flexible and willing to accommodate other sites within Adventure Club in the event of a staff shortage or emergency.

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POLICIES FOR ENROLLING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS

• Adventure Club is dedicated to serving all children and families needing our service provided that they can effectively operate within the regular staff to child ratio of 1:12.
• As a Site Assistant you are responsible for familiarizing yourself with all children’s files including IEP and Heath information in order to adequately supervise and care for each child

Individualized Education Plans

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  • If a child has an IEP for behavioral or developmental purposes, Adventure Club requires that a qualified professional complete an Adventure Club IEP Information and Care Form for that child. This form enables Adventure Club to create a more successful environment for that child. It is required that we have this on file before he/she begins attending the program.
  • If the child’s IEP is for educational purposes such as reading, speech, or math, no form is needed.
  • These forms are available at the Adventure Club Administrative Office.
  • Children with special needs may not attend Adventure Club until the form is returned to the Administrative Office.

Health Information

•  
  • If a child has a special need (health concern, physical, cognitive, behavioral, developmental, takes medication, etc.), a qualified professional – doctor, therapist, teacher, PT, OT - MUST complete an Adventure Club Special Needs Information and Care form, indicating any accommodations Adventure Club may be able to implement within the staffing ratio to help that child succeed.
  • These forms are available at the Adventure Club Administrative Office.
  • Children with special needs may not attend Adventure Club until the form is returned to the Administrative Office.

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SNACKS

• Staff members and children should always wash their hands before preparing, cooking, or eating food.
• There are no snacks served during the morning program. Children can bring money from home and be released to the school’s breakfast program. Adventure Club staff should provide hand washing time for breakfast participants.
• Adventure Club provides afternoon snacks. The number delivered is based on the number of children enrolled. Staff should not eat snacks until all children have had the opportunity to eat and are limited to one per day. If any snacks remain, they can be stored to be used at a later date. Snacks cannot be placed on the floor or left unlocked at site.
• Staff should not have food or beverage items that are not allowed for the kids. (i.e. soda, candy, chips)

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CHILDREN'S PERSONAL PROPERTY

• There must be a location for the children’s coats, backpacks and personal items to be stored each day. This area needs to be organized and off the floor. A laundry basket for each child is a good way to organize personal property.
• Any personal property left at the end of the day should be placed in the school’s lost and found box.
• Property brought from home (toys, tapes/cds, etc) must be approved by Site Facilitator. Approved property is brought at own risk and is the child’s responsibility.

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PARENT INVOLVEMENT

• Staff must be committed to communicating with parents daily to inform them of program activities, changes, etc. as well as communicate about their child and build relationships.
• Through the use of the “Parent Mailbox” all parents/guardians will receive the monthly newsletter, parent education materials such as the “Activity Resource,” communication from Adventure Club office, program announcements, etc.
• Site Facilitator and staff are expected to continuously update the parent center and parent board to include updated information on program happenings as well as resources for parents
• It is important to involve parents in program’s activities and allow them to get to know who is working with their children; staff must support events and activities involving parents with their attendance and participation.
• Special meetings and/or conferences as well as phone conversations may be necessary between staff and families. In the event that such a meeting or conversation is requested or necessary, staff are expected to attend.
• All staff are encouraged to build relationships with parents via interactions at special events, conversations during arrival and departure of children, as well as during program visits.

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COMMUNICATION

• Apart from communication with parents, staff must be open to regular communication with their fellow staff members and the Site Facilitator.
• As mentioned under Requirements for Employment, site staff will meet regularly (usually twice per month) to discuss program planning and policies, child or family concerns, problem solve any issues, as well as become a cohesive and effective group.
• Staff are encouraged to offer ideas and opinions during staff meetings as well as working hours that contribute to program policies and overall program implementation.
• Staff are expected in an atmosphere of teamwork, to communicate areas of concern to their co-workers and/or Site Facilitator and strive to resolve issues promptly and efficiently.

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VISITORS & OBSERVATIONS

• Parents are encouraged and welcome to visit and observe the program at any time.
• Visitors who are screened by the school administration or the Director may observe at any time.
• Visitors who have not been approved or do not identify themselves should be asked to leave immediately. If you are suspicious, ask the Site Facilitator, school administrator, teacher, or custodian for assistance. If no help is available and the situation seems threatening, call police.
• For liability and supervision reasons, children who are not enrolled may not participate in the program activities. This includes playground activities. Check with your Site Facilitator to determine playground policies for before and after school.
• “Visitors” should not include friends: boyfriends/girlfriends, or family. It is not appropriate to bring them to hang out for the afternoon.
• As a part of community involvement, community leaders, partners, and other individuals approved by the school administration or the Director are welcome to visit at any time. Staff are encouraged to welcome and support these individuals as their support is an integral component of the program’s success. Additionally, staff are encouraged to aid in the development of community ties as appropriate, i.e. through guest speakers, community programs, etc.

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Health & Safety

GENERAL INFORMATION

• Staff are responsible for knowing and participating in the practice of emergency procedures for fire, tornado, lock down, and other emergencies.
• Staff are responsible for performing routine checks of program facility and materials to ensure hazards are not present. Additionally, staff will take action to correct safety hazards and inform the Site Facilitator of the hazard and actions taken.
• Staff are responsible to routinely check all playground areas and equipment to prevent foreseeable harm.
• As noted in the job description and letter of understanding, staff must obtain CPR and First Aid certification in order to appropriately respond to medical emergencies and care for injuries.
• In accordance with licensing regulations, all toxic materials must be kept out of the reach of children.
• Visual and proximal supervision must be maintained throughout programming including during transition times. Staff are required to utilize two-way radios (walkie talkies) to communicate head-counting information, child movement, etc. Additionally, children will be monitored in transit and visual supervisions shall be maintained by at least one staff member until the child enters the sight of another staff member.

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ILLNESS POLICY

• If a child has any of the following conditions, the parent should be notified to pick up the child immediately:
  1. Contagious disease
  2. Fever 100 degrees or higher
  3. Vomiting and/or diarrhea
  4. Contagious skin rashes
  5. Head lice
  6. Accident requiring medical attention
• In case of any of the above conditions, the child’s parents must be called immediately and the child should be isolated from the rest of the group. An Illness Report form must be filled out indicating the illness and documenting time parent was called and child was picked up. In serious cases, the child will be taken to the preferred hospital (as indicated on child’s enrollment form) by ambulance and the parent will be called as soon as possible. One staff member must go to the hospital to comfort the child and explain the situation. The Director, Assistant Director or Program Coordinator must be called immediately to replace the staff person on site.
• To minimize the spread of disease, all staff must wash hands upon arrival to the program, before handling snack, and after using the bathroom. Children are also required to wash hands before eating snack and after using the bathroom.
  • If a child has been exposed to a communicable disease within Adventure Club, parents/guardians of enrolled and incoming children will be notified.
• If a child has a known medical condition (asthma, diabetes, seizure disorder, etc.), be sure all staff members know what to do if a problem occurs during program hours. Parents should put in writing the procedures they would like staff to take if there is a problem.

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DISTRIBUTION AND STORAGE OF MEDICATIONS

• When a child is to be given prescription medications, the parent/guardian must complete a Medication Authorization Form and have it filed in the child’s personal file. NO medication may be administered if this form has not been completed.
• Medication brought to the program must be provided in its original container accompanied by a doctor’s instructions for use.
• If medication for a chronic condition is to be kept on site, no more than one’s month’s supply should be kept at one time.
• Medication kept at the site must be kept in a locked container.
• Every time medication is administered, the medication log must be filled out, including date, dosage, time, and staff member’s signature.

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ACCIDENTS

• If a child has an accident, staff should immediately tend to the injury and notify the Site Facilitator. If the injury is serious, notify the child’s parent and the Assistant Director/PTSF Mentor or Director.
• Do not leave the child alone. Use the two-way radios or send a responsible child to get another teacher to help.
• Administer appropriate first aid treatment and determine if additional treatment is necessary. If so, call the child’s parent or emergency contacts immediately.
• The staff member who witnessed the accident or was the first to respond must fill out an Accident/Injury report indicating the circumstances and care given (gave band-aid, has an injured finger, hit with a ball, etc.) Upon arrival, a parent must sign the form to indicate acknowledgment of the procedures taken. The original form must be sent to the main office and copies will be made for the site and the parent.
• If the injury requires medical attention, the Site Facilitator will take care of any insurance issues.
• If an employee is injured while on the job, a Worker’s Compensation Insurance form should be used if medical attention is needed.

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CHILD ABSENCES

• If a child will not be attending Adventure Club because of scheduled appointments, vacations, or other planned absences, the parent should notify the Site Facilitator in writing in advance.
• If a child is ill and will not be attending school, the parent should ask the school secretary to put a message in the Adventure Club mailbox or leave a message.
• If a child does not arrive at an Adventure Club afternoon session, the Site Facilitator should check their teacher or school office to determine whether the child attended school that day. If the child attended but cannot be located, the Site Facilitator should contact the parent or the emergency contacts. If no one can be reached, document the incident and proceed based on the information gathered.
• There is a $5 Finder’s fee charged to the family for the first two incidences and possible dismissal from the program upon the third occurrence. This will occur if the Site Facilitator is not notified about an afternoon absence.

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OUTDOOR PLAY

• The children are expected to play outside for at least 30 minutes every day, unless the temperature drops below 10 degrees F (including wind chill) or there is a heat advisory over 100 degrees F. Children should be required to wear appropriate clothing.

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FINANCIAL POLICIES

• Statements are distributed to parents on site. All payments must be mailed or delivered by parents to the main office. Under no circumstances should staff receive tuition payments. Failure to follow this policy will result in reprimand and possible dismissal.
• A parent who does not make payment by the delinquent date will be notified that his or her child will be suspended until payment is made. Failure to make payment after two weeks will result in immediate discharge and site staff may be involved in that process.

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FIREARMS/WEAPONS

• In the event that someone appears at school with a firearm or other weapon, the emergency number (911) should be called and, if possible, the children should be taken to a safe location. If a child brings a weapon to school it should be confiscated when possible. If it is not possible to take the weapon from the child, the emergency number should be called. Any incident involving a weapon must be reported to the school principal, the Adventure Club Director, and the parents.

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PARENT UNDER THE INFLUENCE OF ALCOHOL OR OTHER DRUGS

• Teachers should make every attempt to keep a child from getting into a car with a parent/ guardian who is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Staff members should call the child’s other parent/guardian, emergency contacts or police to see if they can transport the parent/guardian and child home. Under no circumstances should a staff member take the parent or child home. Program insurance does not allow for staff to provide transportation related to the program. If a parent insists on taking the child, do not try to stop them. Try to get the license plate number and a description of the car and notify police immediately.

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MANDATORY REPORTING OF SUSPECTED CHILD ABUSE

• Adventure Club staff are mandated reporters and are required by the Department of Health and the Division of Social Services to report all cases of suspected child abuse. This includes reporting parents who appear to be impaired by drugs or alcohol. Site Assistants should discuss situations with the Site Facilitator if he or she feels a child has been abused.

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GUIDANCE, DISCIPLINE, AND DISCHARGE OF CHIDREN

GUIDANCE & DISCIPLINE

• Respect Others – any child who physically harms others will be reported to parents and school personnel.
• Follow Directions – children will be expected to follow building and playground rules and listen to instructions.
• Practice Safety – children will be expected to stay with the group in a designated area and ask for permission to leave an area.

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GUIDANCE PLAN

• Verbal warning and discussion of expected behavior. This may include re-direction or cooling down before continuing the activity.
• The child will complete a “Think Sheet” and discuss with a teacher after it has been completed. “Think Sheets” provide the child an opportunity to take responsibility for his/her actions and determine other choices for positive behavior. This may be shown to the parents.
• Discuss re-occurring or serious behavior concerns with the child and parent. A Behavior Observation form may be required.
• Contact parent by phone for discussion of behavior.
• In any situation, if we cannot gain control of a child, the parent will be asked to immediately pick up the child.

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SUSPENSION

• Immediate suspension may be necessary in the case of a child or parent becoming physically violent with a staff member or another child or for repeated incidents of a serious nature. A Parent/guardian may be contacted and required to immediately pick up the child for the day with no reimbursement of cost. Discussion with Site Facilitator will be necessary before the child or parent can return to program

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DISMISSAL FROM ADVENTURE CLUB

• A child or parent may be dismissed from the program in the case of repeated incidents of jeopardizing the physical or emotional safety of any child or staff in the program, or consistently disrupting the flow of the program. Dismissal may also occur at any time for a student or parent who is harmful to themselves or displays inappropriate behavior in front of children or staff.

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SAFE SCHOOLS ACT

• Adventure Club staff is required to report all assaults, drugs, weapons, and/or other reportable incidents to the school principals as soon as possible. Staff should also report serious incidents to their Site Facilitator. Their Site Facilitator will talk with the Director and/or Assistant Director and make decisions about suspending a child from the program. Site Facilitators must document all assaults, drugs, weapons, and/or other reportable incidents and file the reports in the children’s personal files. Such documents must remain confidential and will be shared only with people who have the legal right and need to know.

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IMPORTANT FORMS, LETTERS AND DOCUMENTATIONS

• Behavior Observation forms:
  • Site Assistants – an incident in which a Site Assistant has not abided by a policy or procedure in this handbook warrants a write up by their Site Facilitator. The Site Assistant and Site Facilitator will sign this form and a copy will be placed in his/her file.
  • Children – an incident in which a child has harmed himself or herself or someone else warrants a write up by the staff person present. The form is to be completed thoroughly including all details of the incident. The parent must sign the form and a copy will be placed in the child’s file and a copy turned in to the office.
• Accident/Injury forms are to be completed whenever a child is hurt. The form is to be completed thoroughly including all details of cause, injury and treatment administered. The parent must sign the form and a copy will be placed in the child’s file.
• Early Arrival/Late Departure release forms are to be filled out when a parent arrives either before 7 a.m. or after 6 p.m. This form needs to be filled out completely and turned into the office on a consistent basis. Parents will be charged an initial $5 base fee plus $1/minute early or late. There are to be NO exceptions.
• Attendance waiver forms are to be completed by parents granting permission for their child(ren) to leave Adventure Club for a special event that takes place in the building. Some examples are student council, basketball, mini clubs, etc. Children are not allowed to leave Adventure Club unless their parents have completed and turned in one of these forms.
• Your Site Facilitator completes newsletters monthly. It is important that you read the newsletter in case parents have any questions.
• Evaluation forms:
  • Site Assistant – your Site Facilitator will complete an evaluation form for you each semester. They will review the evaluation with you and a copy of it will be placed in your file.
  • Site Facilitator – you will be asked to evaluate your Site Assistant each semester. These evaluations are confidential and will be used to give your Site Assistant insight on his/her strengths and areas of growth.
  • Parents – parents will be asked each semester to evaluate the program. These evaluations will be used to give the entire staff insight on the program’s strengths and areas of growth.

STUDENT-OWNED ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT
Because of interference with the school environment and security problems, children are not allowed to bring from home electronic equipment such as, but not limited to, the following: radios, video games, beepers, and cellular phones. Adventure Club accepts no responsibility for loss or theft of children’s property.

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Additional Information

Ages & Stages Child Development [Click Here!]

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Site Assistant Letter of Understanding

2007-2008 School year

• I have received an Adventure Club Site Assistant Handbook.
• I am responsible for reading and following all the rules and guidelines displayed in the Adventure Club Site Assistant Handbook.
• It is my responsibility to read in the handbook the policy regarding incentive pay.
• I have also read my elementary school's handbook and will comply with their building and playground rules for consistency between the school and Adventure Club.
• I will adhere to all licensing regulations and accreditation standards and requirements.
• I need to be at my site in the morning from 6:45 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. and in the afternoon from 3:15 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. If I am running late or will be absent for any reason I will speak to my Site Facilitator in person or by phone to make him/her aware of the situation. I will not call the office or email in the event of my absence. I understand consistent lateness or absences will result in dismissal.
• I understand that the MU and CPS schedules may differ.I understand, and will work days that MU is not in session but CPS is in session.This includes holidays and end of the semester breaks.
• I will regularly check and respond to all Adventure Club emails.
• I realize that I will be asked to work on Early Release Days from 1:00 p.m. - 6 p.m. I will not schedule meetings or appointments during that time.
• During my employment, I will conduct myself in a professional manner, follow the dress codes, watch what I say and how I act in front of the children, and treat everyone (i.e. parents, children, school officials, staff, Site Facilitator and peers) with respect.
• I am responsible for helping with set up, preparing and leading club/activities, and will help to clean up the areas of use.
• I am responsible for working all my shifts. This means that if I am unable to find a sub I will inform my Site Facilitator of the situation three days before the shift needing coverage. If I miss a day due to illness, it is my responsibility to get a doctor's note. More than three absences without prior approval is a reason for dismissal.
• I am required to work at least one morning shift unless other arrangements have been made prior to employment.
• I understand that I will be evaluated at the end of each semester and I will be required to fill out evaluations as requested.
• It is my responsibility to sign my timesheet every pay period (every two weeks). Failure to do so may result in my paycheck being delayed by two weeks.
• I must complete at least 4 hours of training per semester. I will progressively obtain training throughout the semester and not wait until the last month of the semester to complete the four hours. Failure to complete required trainings will result in dismissal.
• I must be certified in Adult and Child CPR/1^stAid within three months of my start date. I will ensure that I maintain certification throughout my employment with Adventure Club. Failure to complete required trainings will result in dismissal.
• In adherence to the state licensing laws, Adventure Club is required to conduct a background check.I will provide a copy of my social security card and complete a Family Registry form. If required I will provide an FBI fingerprint screening. Failure to do so may result in a class E misdemeanor with the state.
• I will obtain a TB test (once a year) and a physical within two weeks of employment. I will renew my TB annually and provide Adventure Club with the results.
• I am required to provide transcripts, evaluate the program, and fill out all necessary paperwork in order to comply with accreditation requirements.
• I am responsible for assisting with the safety of each child in the program and will adhere to all guidelines stated in the "Site Protocol" section of the handbook and discussed below

Signing Children In Protocol

It is vital to follow these instructions regarding signing children in during the afternoon session

• Sign children in as they enter.
• Put the time and your initials.
• If a child is missing, follow the "No Show to Afternoon Adventure Club Protocol".
• If a child is at another activity, make a note of that. When the child does come (for example, comes after choir practice at 4:30), sign that child in at 4:30.
• A list of children attending other after school activities such as choir, safety patrol, etc should be kept with the sign in sheets. An attendance waiver should be on file as well.
• After you have signed in and located all the children, count the number of children you signed in.
• Count the number of children present.
• The number you signed in and the head count must match.
• If it matches, write the number down on the sign in sheet under that date’s column. That is your starting point that you can use to head count throughout the afternoon.
• If the number does NOT match, re-count the sign in sheet and the children present.
• If it still does not match, you need to roll call to find the discrepancy.
• Do not move to any other area until you figure out the discrepancy.

Head Counting Through the Morning & Afternoon

In both the morning and afternoon session, it is essential to head count periodically (typically every 15 minutes or when transitioning).

• In addition to head counting and cross checking when the children first arrive in the afternoon, you must head count periodically in the mornings and in the afternoon as well.
• These headcounts must match how many children you currently have in the program's care. Cross check it with the sign in sheets.
• If children are in different areas, each area can count and get back to the person in the cafeteria, who can count on the sign in sheets to ensure the total numbers match.
• If the numbers do not match, there is a problem.
• Recount the sign in sheet and the children.
• If need be, have them all come to a central location and roll call.
• It is also important to head count in the morning. Head count several times during the morning hours and then again before dismissal.
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• If a child has left the morning session to attend another activity, remember to sign the child out with your initials and time.

Pick up Time

If an adult comes to pick up a child that you do not know or recognize, you MUST take the following steps.

• Greet that person; find out the person's name.
• Let them know you need to check the child's file to ensure he/she is on the approved list to pick up.
• Request ID. Check the person's ID with the file to ensure he/she is on the approved list.
• If the person is on the list, then say thanks, have a great night.
• If the person has no ID or is not on the list, then you must call the parents.Let the parent know that "Bob" is here to pick up the child, but he is not on the list or does not have ID. Ask if they approve the pick up (can have the pick up person talk on the phone so the parent can verify that it is actually the correct person if no ID). Also ask if they would like us to add that person to the approved list.
• If you cannot reach a parent at all the phone numbers, let that pick up person know that you cannot approve him/her taking the child.
• Continue to try to contact the parents, leave messages.

No Show to Afternoon Adventure Club Protocol

When a child does not show up to afternoon Adventure Club, you will need to follow certain steps in locating the child to ensure he/she is safe. THIS MUST OCCUR EVERY TIME A CHILD DOES NOT SHOW TO ADVENTURE CLUB.Unless you have a note or phone call from a parent excusing a child, you are liable.

• Check his/her file or the area designated for parent notes/phone calls to see if the child was excused for that day.
• Ask the office staff and/or check the office forms to see if that child was absent or signed out early.
• NEVER TAKE A CHILD'S WORD, WHETHER IT'S THE CHILD THAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR OR A CHILD WHO SAYS THE MISSING CHILD WAS PICKED UP BY A PARENT. You must follow up with a teacher, office staff or parent.
• If possible, check with the child's teacher to see if he/she has information. If the teacher says the child went home on the bus or with someone other than the parent, ask if a note was sent from the parent or a phone call made to verify where the child is to be. If not, pull the child off the bus or pick up line, make a phone call to the parent to see what the deal is.The child must not ride bus or leave with someone unless parent has given a note or a phone giving permission. If the child has already left, you must call the parent immediately.
• Check with other after school activities to see if that child is participating in any of them.
• You will want to check with the buses to make sure the child did not accidentally board the bus.
• If all of these have failed, you will need to call the parents.
• If a child were to call you from another place, for example, saying they walked home to grandmothers or to their home, you must call the parent to confirm that it was okay with them.
• If you are unable to reach parents, try emergency contacts to find out where the parents are.
• Let the principal know of the situation.
• If you have exhausted all avenues of locating the child or by 4:30 p.m. you have not been able to reach anyone with any information (which ever happens first), call the Assistant Director (or Part-time Site Facilitator Mentor for the part-time sites) or the Director or Program Coordinator if the Assistant Director is unavailable. Then call the police's non-emergency number.Let them know that you are a child care provider at ______ School and that a child did not show up. You have contacted the school office, teacher, and have not been able to reach the parents. You are not sure where the child is and you need their assistance.Keep in contact with the Adventure Club administrative staff and the principal.
• If you have a situation you are unsure of what to do, ask the Site Facilitator or call the Assistant Director, Program Coordinator, Part-time Site Facilitator Mentor, or Director.
• Staff and parent must fill out an Absent Without Notification form. The parent and the staff will need to sign and date it. Document the details of tracking the child down. Note who you spoke to and called. If it gets to the point of having to call the police, the parents need to know that their enrollment with Adventure Club will be evaluated, as this is very serious.
• Every time a parent does not give notification of an absence you need to document the incident.
• Paperwork needs to be turned in to the administrative office.
• It is not just okay for parents to call the school's office regarding absences.Parents must call Adventure Club as well.

I have read, understand and will adhere to the above expectations during my employment with Adventure Club. Failure to do so may result in suspension or termination.

___________________                        ___________________                              
Staff Name Printed                                     Site Location

___________________                        ___________________                              
Staff Signature                                                   Date

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Parents Orientation Checklist

Parent’s Name: __________________ Child’s Name: _______________

Date: _________________________

Staff Member: __________________

• Introduce self and other staff
• Give tour of facility including information regarding parent center
• Familiarize parent with sign-in and out procedures
• Confirm receipt of Parent Handbook and answer any questions regarding the handbook
• Review
  
  
  • Daily schedule
  • Calendar of upcoming events/newsletters
  • Parent mailbox
  • Available resources
  • Important policies

Once completed file with child’s registration form.

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