Important Flu Season Information

September 3, 2009

Dear Parents and Staff,

The flu season is right around the corner and the Children’s Learning Centers and Springboard Schools want to make sure everyone is prepared.  We would like to start by assuring all our families that we will take every precaution necessary to prevent the spread of the flu.

We have gathered updates and information from The Department of Public Health and The Center for Disease Control and Protection.  Our programs will strictly enforce all recommendations and guidelines.  To do so we need all our families’ cooperation.  We strongly recommend that you talk to your child’s pediatrician about having your children vaccinated for the flu this season.

In preparing for the prevention of the flu we are implementing the following measures:

1. This year we will be having a flu clinic for all of our teachers.
2. We will also install Purell Hand Sanitizer stations at the entrance of all our programs.  We ask that all adults entering the building sanitize their hands before entering the classrooms.
3. Our programs are re-enforcing strict hand washing policy for both children and teachers.  All children and staff upon arrival must wash hands immediately
4. Our sanitation of equipment will continue more frequently.
5. We have added a link on our web site for updates on Health Issues including information on the flu.

If your child or someone in your family does come down with either of the flu viruses we ask that you follow the Department of Public Health and CDC recommendations to prevent the spread of the virus.  If any of our parents contract the virus, please do not enter the programs to drop off your child and arrange for an alternative drop off and pick up of your child.  This will also help to minimize any further outbreaks.

Please remember to stay home with flu like symptoms and cough and sneeze in a tissue or the crock of your elbow and teach your children the same.  Please be advised that we will be following the “out of school” requirements for children with the flu or flu like symptoms.  As a reminder to families that tuition is not refunded for any illness, vacations or other personal time that your child does not attend the program.

We have attached information and a Flu Symptom Check list for you to refer to.  If at any time the guidelines for the Flu change we will update you immediately.  You can also go to the www.mass.gov/flu and/or www.cdc.gov for more information.

For Parent’s Flu Brochure click here

The Children’s Learning Centers and Springboard Schools want to thank you for your cooperation in keeping our families and schools healthy.

Sincerely,

The Children’s Learning Centers & Springboard Schools

NAEYC-accredited programs have demonstrated a commitment to providing a high-quality program for young children and their families. While the NAEYC accreditation process examines the total program, the greatest emphasis is placed on the quality of interactions between staff and children, and the developmental appropriateness of the curriculum. Health and safety, staffing, staff qualifications, physical environment, and administration are all reviewed during accreditation; but primary consideration is given to the nature of the child’s experience. Once eligible, it takes up to two years to become accredited.

At NAEYC-accredited centers, parents can be assured that their children are in excellent centers. Our Learning Centers are accredited or are in the process of becoming accredited. For more information on NAEYC, click here.

A career in child care offers a variety of exciting opportunities. Early childhood professionals can choose to work in an array of child care environments and types of programs. The Learning Centers have created some tips for helping you consider a career working with children and choosing an employer that best fits your goals.

Exploring a career in early care and education

There are many types of early childhood programs. When choosing an employer, look for a partnership that supports your philosophy about work with children. Typical early child care and education programs include: Elementary Schools, Government-sponsored programs (Head Start, ECAEP, military, etc.), Family home care, Not-for-profit programs (agency-sponsored, church programs, etc.), Private, independent programs, For-profit networks, franchises, chains, etc., College-affiliated programs, and Corporate-sponsored programs.

When applying for a new position

• Be mindful of first impressions!
• Phone inquiries… Practice good telephone etiquette. Think before you call and be ready to discuss your interest and pertinent background.
• Ask for a tour of the program.
• Be confident and always friendly and warm to all.
• Resumes… Use any compact format that lists education and/or experience. Bullets are an excellent way to highlight points that you want an employer to notice. Include extracurricular activities, especially those demonstrating leadership experiences and commitment to children. Carefully review your work before submitting it to anyone!

The day you are being interviewed:

• Always be on time. Everyone’s time is important.
• Dress professionally – Make certain your attire is suitable for work with children. No Jeans or T-shirts during interviews, nor clothes that might impair your ability when working with children.
• Ask for a tour. Make eye contact with everyone you meet – interviewers, teachers, children, and parents.
• Be ready from the start to work and play with children and focus on each child at every opportunity. Nothing speaks more profoundly than a genuine interest in children!
• Be prepared for questions related to philosophy, mission, parent involvement, and program.
• Bring addresses and phone numbers of references and past employers.
• Ask questions to gain more information about an employer and to demonstrate your interest and observations. Get answers to help you decide if this is the employer for you.
• Be realistic about the position for which you are qualified.
• Be positive. Specific skills can be taught, but attitude is everything.
• Ask about follow-up contact and next steps.

Making a decision

• Take a critical look at the factors that will affect your life profoundly.
• Is this a program that will support your personal and professional expectations?
• Do the philosophy and mission statement match yours?
• Are there plentiful resources and supports for teachers? (Curriculum resources, paid planning time, etc.)
• Did you connect with the director?
• Is there a cultural fit?
• What are the teacher-to-child ratios?
• Have you reviewed benefits and pay?
• What orientation and training will be available to you as a new employee?
• Is there continued professional development? (Tuition reimbursements, workshops, conferences, development plans, etc.)
• Are teachers and staff involved in decision-making?
• What are the opportunities for growth and advancement? Did you learn of any examples?
• Are there positive parent partnerships?
• Do the children and teachers seem happy?

Are you ready to join us!!

• This is far from the end of the journey – this is, of course, just the beginning. Now is the time to show your passion, professionalism, and commitment to children and families. Focus on your connections with children, parents, and colleagues. Be open to new ideas. Take care of yourself. Look to your colleagues for guidance and offer your talent to help them grow. Your success is important to everyone. You are not in this alone. Above all, know you are making a difference in the lives of children and families every day. We believe more than anything there is no more important work.

Download the Application!

and mail to :
142 North Road
Sudbury, MA 01776

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Chelmsford Children’s Learning Center
72 Boston Road
Chelmsford, MA 01824

Please Call: 978-256-1111