School Year WEM S.A.C.C. Handbook

WEM School Age Child Care is a certified child care program that offers children the chance to make the most out of their time out of school with opportunities to explore new interests, learn new skills, and develop new friendships. Take a look through the following pages that provide additional information, as well as some of the key components of our program.

Contact

Jennifer Seesz-Holicky

School Age Care Coordinator

507-362-4439 X2235

jholicky@wem.k12.mn.us

Crystal Lamont

Community Ed Director

507-362-4403 X1207

clamont@wem.k12.mn.us

Hours of Operation

Regularly Scheduled School Days

Before School 6:30AM to 8:25AM

After School 3:05PM to 5:30PM

Fridays 6:30AM to 5:30PM

S.A.C.C. is offered on select scheduled non school days

(refer to the “important dates” section for more information)

Students and parents are not allowed in the building

prior to 6:30AM and must exit the building by 5:30PM.

Location

Waterville Elementary School 500 Paquin Street E

Enrollment Requirements

WEM District Families
Families open enrolled in WEM Schools
Students in preschool through age 12
Must be able and willing to independently and appropriately in a large group setting:

follow the program's behavior expectations
follow directions from staff
follow the program's daily schedule
participate in all daily activities
use toys and classroom materials
transition from one activity to another
interact with peers in a large group setting
remain in the classroom/designated space
must be potty trained.

If children have an accident, parents/guardians will be called to come and change the child and/or take them home. After 3 occurrences; services will be suspended until the child is fully potty trained.

Potty trained is defined as:

Does not require the use of diapers or pull-ups
Being able to recognize the body's signals for needing to urinate or have a bowel movement
Being able to communicate the need to use the bathroom
Being able to independently manage hygiene, such as wiping, flushing, and washing hands

If your child has a specific need, such as a health condition, 504 or an IEP please discuss these with the school age care coordinator at the time of registration to determine if the appropriate level of support needed can be made without fundamentally altering the nature of the program. S.A.C.C. will provide reasonable accommodations as needed to make physical and social inclusion successful.

If S.A.C.C. cannot meet the child’s needs safely and effectively within our student to staff ratio, the placement cannot be accepted. Decisions are made on a per case basis. Please contact the school age care coordinator prior to submitting the enrollment form to discuss your child's childcare needs in depth if you have questions or concerns.

From time to time to best support children, we need to share relevant information between elementary school staff and WEM S.A.C.C. staff. This information will only be shared as needed. By enrolling your child in S.A.C.C. you are agreeing to allow information to be shared between elementary school staff (teachers, school nurse, etc) and WEM S.A.C.C. staff (this type of information includes health information, allergies, IEP, etc).

Due to S.A.C.C. operating hours district resources that are available during typical school day hours may not be available for S.A.C.C.

One-on-one paraprofessionals are not available in the S.A.C.C. program due to staffing ratios.

Registration cannot be accepted if

child does not meet enrollment requirements as stated above
child's presence would pose a significant risk to himself/herself, or others participating in the program
child displays behaviors that cause an overall disruption to the program's ability to operate safely
the needed accommodations would fundamentally alter the nature of the program

Withholding information at the time of registration could result in termination of child care services.

Mission Statement

The mission of WEM School Age Child Care is to provide quality child care and enrichment activities for students to make the most of their time out of school in a safe and positive environment that will promote social skills, physical development and intellectual growth through age-appropriate play, projects and activities in accordance to the “Minimum Standards for School-Age Care Programs,” provided by the Minnesota Community Education Association (MCEA) as well as the guidelines set by the Minnesota Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF). Focusing on the key areas of WEM's Bucs Pride: Respectful, Responsible, Safe, Positive and Kind.

Our Philosophy

WEM School Age Child Care is dedicated to providing a safe and nurturing space where children can learn and grow while developing lifelong skills and creating friendships. Our program emphasizes the social, emotional, physical, and cognitive growth of the children while also recognizing their individual talents and needs.

Goals

Social and Emotional Development: To develop an understanding of self and learn skills to successfully understand and interact with the world.
Approaches to Learning: To develop skills necessary for the successful acquisition of knowledge, for processing information and for thinking and reasoning.
Language and Literacy Development: To develop skills and use the knowledge for successful verbal and written communication.
Creativity and the Arts: To experience the creative arts through understanding and participating in the artistic process.
Cognitive Development: To use age-appropriate learning to practice and apply skills in academic areas and social systems understanding
Physical Development and Health: To develop skills to live a safe, healthy, fit and productive life.

Benefits of the Program

Safety and supervision

Risks are more likely for children when they are unsupervised before and after school. Keeping children busy and providing quality supervision can keep them from engaging in risky behavior.

Improve Social Skills & Build Friendships

S.A.C.C. promotes cooperation, support, and respect while children have a chance to interact with a variety of elementary students. Staff members are able to encourage positive social skills.

Broaden learning opportunities

S.A.C.C. offers a variety of enrichment experiences. It’s a fun and meaningful way for children to work with others in areas they enjoy and expand their interest areas.

Provide academic support

As part of our after school program, there is scheduled independent homework time. This time allows students to do their homework in a structured environment. This can be very helpful for children who struggle with homework at home or have busy schedules that don’t allow for set homework time. Getting academics done while at school can make everyone’s evening more pleasant.

Orientation

Orientations can be scheduled Monday through Friday during the Summer (June 9th to August 22nd) from 7:00AM to 5:00PM and on regularly scheduled school days between the hours of 8:30AM - 10:30AM and 12:30PM - 2:30PM. Contact the school age care coordinator if you would like to schedule an orientation.

Registration

Spaces are limited and are given in the order completed registrations are received

Updated 8/25/2026 Email Jennifer at jholicky@wem.k12.mn.us to register

Completed registrations must be received a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the first day of attendance for all scheduling options including drop in care.

Registration is a two step process - you must submit both the online registration form and the schedule agreement to complete your child’s school year registration

Registration checklist

Read through the handbook in its entirety
Reach out to Jennifer with any questions
Submit the online registration form
Submit the schedule agreement - this will be sent to your email after the online registration as been submitted
Complete and return the student information form (will be available in August, needs to be returned prior to first day of attendance)
Download the SeeSaw app
If you have a Facebook account, like WEM School Age Child Care - S.A.C.C.

*Families must be up to date on all Community Ed Payments before a new registration is submitted. If there is an outstanding balance on your community ed account, registration will not be accepted and students will not be able to begin attending until the past due balance has been paid in full.

A school year contract agreement will be sent to the email listed on your schedule agreement by September 1st.

By registering your child, you are confirming you understand that it is your responsibility to read and comply with all information contained in the WEM School Age Child Care Handbook and are aware that failure to abide by the policies and procedures will result in termination of childcare services or the inability for WEM School Age Child Care to accept your child's enrollment.

Registration Fee

$30.00 non refundable registration fee per child

Important Dates

Wednesday, September 9th - First Day of School Year S.A.C.C.

Thursday, October 15th - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Friday, October 16th - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Thursday, November 26th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Friday, November 27th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Thursday, December 24th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Friday, December 25th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Monday, December 28th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Tuesday, December 29th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Wednesday, December 30th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Thursday, December 31st - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Friday, January 1st - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Monday, January 18th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Friday, February 12th - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Monday, February 15th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Monday, March 22nd - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Tuesday, March 23rd - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Wednesday, March 24th - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Thursday, March 25th - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Friday, March 26th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Monday, March 29th - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Friday, April 23rd - No School/Non School Day S.A.C.C. offered from 7:00AM to 5:00PM

Monday, May 31st - No School/S.A.C.C. Closed

Thursday, June 3rd - Last Day of School Year S.A.C.C.

Attendance

Families must notify the school age care coordinator in advance if your child will be absent and fill out the absent form

Notifying the Elementary School Office and/or classroom teacher is not sufficient.
SeeSaw is the best tool to use for getting attendance messages to the school age care coordinator.
For planned absences and schedule changes (appointments, vacations, etc) a minimum of a 24 hours notice should be given.
All after school absences must be reported to the school age care coordinator no later than 9:00AM, except in cases of an emergency or afternoon illness.
If students are sent home sick during the school day school, absent form must be submitted prior to 3:00PM
Absent days without advance notice are considered no shows.

On the third no show, schedule agreement contract will be terminated and family will need to use drop in care for any days child care is needed.

Sessions absent (unrelated to illness) 2 times per month or more without 24 hour advance notice may be removed from the families contract agreement. Drop in care if available may be requested if needing future child care during those sessions.

Rates are not reduced for days/times child is not in attendance following the family’s contract agreement.

S.A.C.C. closes at 5:30PM on regularly scheduled school days, it is the parents responsibility to have back up arrangements made in the event you are unable to pick up your child on time. There are no exceptions. Our staff work hard to care for your children, and it’s important that they can leave on time to attend to their personal responsibilities.

The school age care coordinator may request a meeting with parents/guardians at any time to make changes to schedule agreement based on attendance.

Contracted Hours

Additional fees will be charged for care outside of contracted hours;

meaning drop off before contracted drop off time and/or pick up after contracted pick up time. Please be respectful and communicate the need for care outside of contracted hours in advance.

Early Drop Off

Additional fees apply for drop off before contracted drop off time,

Drop off before contracted drop off time without pre approval may not be accepted due to student to staff ratios

Late Pick Up

Additional fees apply for pick up after contracted pick up time,

If a child has not been picked up by their contracted pick up time parents/guardians will be immediately contacted, if we are unable to get a hold of the parents/guardian the emergency contact persons listed will be contacted. If the parents/guardian and the emergency contact person cannot be reached after 30 minutes, staff will notify the Waterville Police Department.

A $1.00/minute late pick up fee will be charged for any pick up after closing time in addition to fees charged for care outside of contracted hours.

On the third pick up after closing time, childcare services will be immediately terminated.

Additional fees must be paid prior to the next time child attends.

Vacation

Families may use one week (Monday through Friday) as a vacation week during the school year with zero hours scheduled for a weekly rate of $0. Notice of vacation week must be given by the 20th of the month prior to the vacation week.

Long term leave

Families needing a long term leave from childcare (seasonal employment, maternity leave, job loss, medical, etc) may request a long term with a weekly rate of $25.00.

Requests must be sent to the school age care coordinator by the 20th of the month prior to the date leave begins. In the event of a medical long term leave advance notice is not required.

Families must submit an accurate schedule by the 20th of the month prior to the date childcare will once again be needed.

Scheduling Options

Registration must be submitted by the 20th of the month prior to the child's first day of attendance. Contracts begin the 1st full week of the following month from the date registration is submitted.

Spaces may not be available for days and times not selected at the time of registration.

Set Schedule

Same days each week

(before school, after school, or both as indicated on the schedule agreement).

Students may attend anytime within contracted hours on sessions registered.

Care outside of contracted hours may be requested with advance notice and is subject to availability based on student to staff ratio.

Contacted hours must be listed at the quarter hour ie 7:00, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45

Varied Schedule

Calendars are due by the 20th of each month. September calendars are due at the time of registration.
All sessions registered must be scheduled a minimum of two times per month.
Sessions on families schedule agreement that are not scheduled a minimum of two times per month:

$5/day will be charged each week for all sessions registered not scheduled a minimum of 2 times per month
drop in rates apply for any days not scheduled two times per month students attend
Sessions on families schedule agreement that are scheduled zero times in any given month, may be removed from the families contract agreement the following month if there is a waitlist and not be permitted to be scheduled on future monthly calendars.

Drop in care may be requested if child care is needed

Subject to availability.

Sessions not on families schedule agreement are not permitted to be scheduled on the monthly calendar.

Drop in care may be requested if child care is needed on non registered days. Subject to availability.

If the monthly schedule is not received by the calendar due date, drop in care will need to be requested for any days child care is needed. Subject to availability
Drop in fees are charged for any days needing care not indicated on the monthly calendar submitted.
Students may attend anytime within contracted hours on sessions scheduled on the monthly calendar.

Care outside of contracted hours may be requested with advance notice and is subject to availability based on student to staff ratio.

Contacted hours must be listed at the quarter hour ie 7:00, 7:15, 7:30, 7:45

Drop In Care

Families needing occasional care only
Families who do not know their child care needs in advance
Families using another scheduling option who need care on a non registered day
Subject to availability

must contact the school age care coordinator in advance to confirm spaces are available within student to staff ratios

Scheduled Non School Days

Requires Non School Day Registration form in addition to the school year registration form. Registration forms for non school day child care can be found in the important links for families document.
Spaces are limited and will be given in the order completed registration forms are received.
A minimum number of 10 students must be registered by the deadline for S.A.C.C. to be open on non school days.
Signing your child(ren) up for SACC on a non school day holds your spot and allows us to be open based on the number of children expected to attend. We count on your participation if you sign your child(ren) up for non school day childcare.

Families who register for non school day care that do not attend as scheduled (unrelated to illness) will be ineligible to pre register for future non school day care.
Drop in care with a minimum of 24 hours notice may be used if spaces are still available if care is needed on non school days/early dismissals if family becomes ineligible to register due to not attending a registered non school day/early dismissal.

Fees are charged regardless of attendance when submitting a registration form for non school day child care.

If the minimum number of students do not register by the deadline, S.A.C.C. will be closed and no fees will be charged for that day

Additional fees may apply for non school days that include field trips.
Breakfast/Lunch are not served by the district on scheduled non school days. Children attending non school day S.A.C.C. must bring a lunch.
Must have adequate staffing available for S.A.C.C. to be offered on non school days.
Hours subject to change based on community needs and adequate staffing availability..

Account balance must be up to date when registering for non school day childcare

Schedule Changes

Schedule changes must be made in writing by the 20th of the month prior to the date schedule change takes effect. Additional days/times not selected at the time of registration are subject to availability due to student to staff ratios and max group size.

ie for schedule changes beginning in November, notice must be given by October 20th.

Rates

PreSchool Rates
Before School (6:30AM to 8:25AM)	$10/day
After School (3:05PM to 5:30PM)	$10/day
Fridays (8:25AM to 3:05PM)	$26/day

School Age Rates (kindergarten through age 12)
	Full Time	Part Time
Before School or After School	$50/week	$10/day
Before and After School: more than 3 ½ hours per day	$90/week	$20/day
Before and After School: up to 3 ½ hours per day	$70/week	$16/day
Before and After School: up to 2 ½ hours per day	$60/week	$14/day
Before and After School: less than 1 ½ hours per day	$55/week	$13/day

All Participants
Childcare Outside of Contracted Hours	$5/session
Late Pick Up Fee	$1/minute
Drop In Care	$25/day
Scheduled Non School Day
School Hours 8:30AM to 3:00PM	$25/day
Extended Morning Care 7:00AM to 8:30AM	$10/day
Extended Afternoon Care 3:00AM to 5:00PM	$10/day

Full Time Weekly Monday through Friday

Part Time Less than 5 days every week

Sibling DIsount

10% for each additional child in the family attending Full Time

Minimum Weekly Rate

$25.00/week charged per child for all weeks S.A.C.C. is open

Modified Weekly Rate

Fees are not charged for scheduled days S.A.C.C. is closed

Invoices

Invoices are entered into online accounts by the 1st of each month.

Weekly rates are determined by:

the schedule agreement submitted at the time of registration for families using consistent care
monthly calendars submitted for families using varied schedules.

Fees are not reduced for scheduled days students do not attend.

Payments

Weekly invoices will be entered into online accounts by the first of each month. Families may choose to pay weekly, biweekly or monthly, regardless of how often families choose to pay accounts must be up to date before children attend. Amounts paid must be in full week intervals. Example: a family with a weekly rate of $50 may opt to pay $50 each Friday, $100 on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month or $200 on the first Friday of the month (4 week month).
Payments are due each Friday by noon for the upcoming week of childcare.
If there are extreme circumstances that prevent a family from paying their account in full by the payment deadline, the school age care coordinator must be contacted before the payment deadline to discuss payment arrangements.
Payments can be made online, cash or check

online through the arbiter community ed site preferred payment method

to make online payments:

> enter your username and password

> click “my account”

> click “make a payment”

> select invoice box of the week(s) you are making a payment for

> proceed to payment

> enter payment info

> click “submit”

by cash in an envelope labeled with your child's first and last name and date turned in to the school age care coordinator.
by check made out to WEM S.A.C.C. in the red payment folder located at the parent station.

There will be a $25.00/week late fee charged to accounts not paid by noon on Friday.
Families with a past due balance who have not made payment arrangements will not be allowed to attend until account is paid in full.
Checks will not be an acceptable form of payment from anyone who has had checks returned to the district for insufficient funds.
WEM School Age Child Care will not mediate payment arrangements between co-parents. It is the responsibility of the parent(s) to make sure their child’s account is up to date by each payment deadline, the account must be up to date in order for children to attend.

WEM School Age Child Care accepts CCAP from Le Sueur and Rice county.

You must inform the S.A.C.C. Coordinator prior to the payment deadline if you will be receiving CCAP.
Written authorization from families receiving financial assistance from outside agencies must be received prior to the payment deadline. Families are responsible for payment until paperwork is received and any balance not paid by the outside agency.
Payment policies as stated above apply to all co-payments.
If child care assistance is canceled, the parents/guardians will be responsible for all expenses incurred.

Termination of childcare

Families who decide to terminate their childcare contract must notify the school age care coordinator in writing a minimum of 30 days in advance.

Families are responsible to pay their remaining account balance in full following the payment deadline dates.

Children will not be eligible to enroll in future sessions of S.A.C.C if no notice is given and fees are not paid in full.

WEM School Age Child Care reserves the right for immediate termination of any child if the safety of participants/staff is being compromised.

Dismissal from the program could result from any of the following:

The staff and/or parent/guardian determines that the program cannot meet the needs of the child.
The child and/or parent/guardian has inappropriate conduct toward students or staff.
The child and/or parent/guardian are unable or unwilling to follow the program policies, procedures and rules as stated in the WEM S.A.C.C. Handbook.
Invoices/fees are not paid.

This dismissal procedure includes all WEM S.A.C.C. program options including School Year, Non-School Days and Summer programs.

After one full calendar year of absence from the program following dismissal, a child may be considered for re-entry into the program. Before returning to the program a meeting with parents/guardians, WEM School Age Child Care Coordinator and WEM Community Ed director will be required to discuss improvements for a successful return to the program.

In some instances, returning to the program will not be considered. This is decided on an individual case basis based on student and staff safety.

If a child has been dismissed from the program for a second time, this will result in permanent termination from the WEM S.A.C.C. Program.

Parent’s Responsibilities

Being aware of all information in the current WEM School Age Child Care Handbook
Addressing questions or concerns with staff in a respectful manner
Communicating with the S.A.C.C. coordinator any important information regarding your child
Notifying the school age care coordinator in advance if your child will be absent.
Picking your child(ren) up on time
Completing the self screening before attending childcare each day
Keeping ill child(ren) home
Dressing your child(ren) appropriately for the weather
Keeping your contact information up to date
Checking family folders daily

WEM School Age Child Care is committed to providing a safe and nurturing environment for all children in our care. We understand that parents may have disagreements or complex relationships that affect their interactions. However, our primary focus is on the well-being and care of the children. Therefore, we will not mediate or become involved in any disagreements between parents/guardians. We will strictly follow the policies outlined in court orders or other legally binding documentation related to parental rights and responsibilities. We will not facilitate discussions or involvement in matters that are not directly related to the care of the children in our program. Parental disputes need to be resolved through the appropriate legal counsel.

Staff

S.A.C.C. is staffed by caring individuals who have experience in various fields. Background checks, first aid, CPR training, and continued staff development through workshops and training are required.

Under Minnesota State Law, all staff that work with children are required to report all suspected physical, emotional, or sexual abuse or neglect of children to authorities as mandated reporters.

Leadership

Mrs. Jennifer Seesz-Holicky (known to the students as Mrs Jennifer) has been the WEM School Age Care Coordinator since the 2018/2019 School Year and started working at S.A.C.C. in the summer of 2016. She has worked within the WEM district since 2013 and now works full time year round in the S.A.C.C. classroom and behind the scenes of the program as well as additional duties within the elementary school during the school year.

As a mom of four, Mrs. Seesz-Holicky has a good understanding and recognizes the importance and need for quality childcare in our local communities. She says one of her favorite things about working with children is their never-ending sense of curiosity and how they provide a different perspective to look at the world.

During her time as the school age child care coordinator she has sought to develop solid relationships with the staff and participants of the program giving S.A.C.C. a welcoming atmosphere and a sense of belonging for those who attend.

Stay Connected

Important Links for Families

School Age Child Care (SACC) - Waterville-Elysian-Morristown School District

WEM School Age Child Care Facebook Page

SeeSaw

Communication

WEM S.A.C.C. values the communication shared between us and the families of the program. We hope that parents also value this communication as it helps provide the best experience possible for your children while they are in our care.

Drop off and pick up time work well for quick communication if a group activity is not going on keeping in mind the privacy of all students is important and that staff's main focus during S.A.C.C. hours is the supervision of children. If you would like to discuss anything in depth we encourage you to set up a meeting/phone call with the school age care coordinator at any time throughout the year.

Parents/Guardians may contact the school age care coordinator Monday - Friday on regularly scheduled school days and days non school day S.A.C.C. is open between the hours of 6:00AM and 6:00PM.

In the event of an emergency you may reach out after hours or on weekends.

Responses may not be received until 24 hours after the start of the following school day depending on the situation.

SeeSaw App

SeeSaw is the quickest and most effective tool for communication between parents and staff. All parents will receive instructions on how to use the app. Of course you are not required to participate but we strongly encourage all families to utilize the app.

Family Input

We like to hear how we are doing as well as if there is something that we can do to better accommodate your family. We will request that all families fill out a Parent Survey during the school year. Your feedback is greatly appreciated!

We encourage input from all families. The staff/parent/guardian relationship greatly impacts the success of our program. Your suggestions, ideas and concerns are always welcome. In fact, all of these things help to improve our program. In addition to the family survey’s, parents may request a meeting at any time with the school age care coordinator or share your suggestions, ideas or concerns by emailing the school age care coordinator.

Check In & Release Policy

By sending your child to S.A.C.C. you are confirming the daily self screening has been completed and your child has not answered yes to any of the questions.
All persons dropping off and/or picking up must self screen prior to entering the building. People who answer yes to any of the screening questions must not drop off or pick up children.
Enter through the designated entrances only. During the school year S.A.C.C. utilizes the elementary main entrance located on Paquin Street. (except during scheduled outside times)

It is important you do not park in restricted areas such as the crosswalk, reserved parking, the bridge, loading dock, or any other areas marked as no parking zones
Due to bus loading zone all students attending before school S.A.C.C. must arrive prior to 7:45AM
Due to bus loading zone all participants attending after school S.A.C.C. must not be picked up prior to 3:15PM

The S.A.C.C. room is the second door on the left down the hallway straight from the elementary entrance
The parent station, which includes attendance sheets, is located on the cart in the hallway outside the classroom.
Students will not be allowed to be signed into S.A.C.C. until their contracted drop off time without prior approval.
For the safety and well being of each child, they must be signed in and out of the program each day by an authorized person as listed on the enrollment form. Children are not allowed to sign themselves in or out of the program.
The 10 names indicated on the student information form; parents/guardians (2), step parents (2) if applicable, emergency contacts (2), and additional persons (4), will be the ONLY people allowed to drop off and pick up children from S.A.C.C. during the school year, additional names cannot be added once the student information sheet has been turned in. Must be 16 or older, and able to provide photo ID
Persons listed on the student information sheet will be allowed to pick up children from S.A.C.C. at any time unless there is a court order stating they cannot. A copy of the court order must be provided to the school age care coordinator.
All sign ins and sign outs must include the accurate time and initials of the person dropping off/picking up a child.
Falsifying information on the attendance sheet could result in termination of childcare services.
Parent's/Guardian’s are asked to stay behind the blue line in the cubby area of the classroom.
If S.A.C.C. is not in the classroom, a note will be at the parent station indicating our location.
Family folders should be checked daily during drop off and pick up.
Parents/Guardians who are in the building between 7:45AM and 3:25PM must sign in at the elementary office and be wearing a visitor pass.
Bussing is available for preschool students attending S.A.C.C. during school hours only. They will be signed in at 8:25AM and/or out at 3:05PM by S.A.C.C. staff

It is the parents/guardians responsibility to communicate the check in and release policy with those listed on your child’s student information sheet.

Programs Guidelines for Supervision of Children

All staff are trained in Active S.M.I.L.E. Supervision techniques

Scan

Examine the environment frequently
Notice both inappropriate and appropriate behaviors

Move

Move around the entire childcare area
Visit problem areas frequently

Interact

Elicit conversations with students
Provide pre-corrections and reminders
Provide positive reinforcers

Learn

Learn from students what their interests are
Ask students questions. Show interest

Encourage

Boost spirits! Promote positive behaviors

WEM S.A.C.C. maintains a student to staff ratio of no more than 15:1 and a maximum group size of 30 to ensure the ability of quality supervision for our students.

Activities

WEM S.A.C.C. provides a wide range of activities throughout the year. Activities will include opportunities for individual and group participation, while providing a balance between self-selected and staff-selected activities. Children will participate in activities focused on their social, cognitive, physical, emotional and language development. We focus on these domains of development through various activities carefully planned to accommodate the full age range of children we provide care for.

Example of Daily Schedule

Before School After School

6:30AM Free Play 3:05PM Snack/Homework/Journals/Table Activities

7:30AM Morning Meeting 3:30PM Outside (weather permitting)

7:50AM Breakfast 4:30PM Read Aloud

8:10AM Group Activity 4:45PM Free Play

8:20AM Dismissed 5:15PM Music/STEM

*Fridays: movie at 4:00

WEM S.A.C.C. is dedicated to quality development and engagement of children and youth in partnership with families, schools, and communities. The program aims to develop the whole child by providing age-appropriate learning experiences and opportunities with activities that include:

Arts and crafts
Music
Fitness
Language, literature and writing
Fine and Gross Motor
Sensory
Card/Board Games
Dramatic Play
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
4-H
Outdoor play and sports
Opportunities to complete homework
Small- and large-group activities
Personal and social development

WEM S.A.C.C. believes in the importance of play. Children will get many opportunities for child led play. Allowing children to lead not only supports their curiosity and creativity, but also empowers them. We provide a safe environment for children to explore and to test out their ideas. Child led play also gives children ownership of their play and experiences. This is extremely important as it helps with the development of their sense of identity and self-esteem. It develops their belief in themselves as thinkers and learners. Through trial and repetition in play children initiate, they get to practice and master skills. They learn persistence and perseverance as they are more motivated to keep going when it’s something they’re completely into. Additional benefits children gain from child led play:

They learn to figure things out for themselves, to problem solve and take healthy risks
Develop innovative ways to think about the world and how it works based on their own interests
Through being creative and using their imagination, children can work through their emotions and are able to transform their feelings into actions
Gives them time and space to act out situations that are new or troubling to them and allows them to work through strong feelings in a safe way
When with other children, they can learn to plan and creatively problem solve together, to negotiate, share thoughts and feelings

WEM S.A.C.C. 4-Club

This program is a collaboration between WEM School Age Child Care, Le Sueur County 4-H and UMN Extension that meets once a month after school during the school year.

(There is no additional cost for S.A.C.C. participants to join the WEM S.A.C.C. 4-H Club.)

4‑H programs hands-on approach gives young people guidance, tools and encouragement, and then puts them in the driver’s seat to make great things happen. Independent research proves the unparalleled impact of the 4‑H experience. Children build life skills by leading hands-on projects in areas like science, health, agriculture and civic engagement – helping them to grow confidence, independence, resilience, and compassion.

4-H Meetings are held the first Tuesday of the month from 3:30PM to 4:30PM

during the school year.

Field Trips

Field trip destinations and dates will be sent to all enrolled families as they are planned.

Field trips require a separate enrollment form and may include an additional cost.

*If a child has behavior issues attending field trips and following the bus rules, they will be dismissed from all future field trips. This is for the safety of that child and all participants.

Birthday Invitations

Birthday invitations may not be passed at S.A.C.C. unless all participants are being invited.

Please mail them instead. Passing out invitations to only a few students causes hard feelings.

Movies

G and PG ratings are approved to be shown at S.A.C.C.

Electronics

Children may not use, activate or display cell phones and smart watches during childcare hours.
Cell phones and smart watches brought to S.A.C.C. must be turned off and kept in the child's backpack..
Children may use their chromebooks and Ipads during designated times for school related activities only.
WEM School Age Child Care is not responsible for lost or damaged electronics.

"Smart watch" any watch that can send or receive text messages/phone calls.

Important information for day to day activities

The program is not responsible for lost or damaged personal belongings.

All children must have a water bottle labeled with their name each day they attend. We ask that water bottles are taken home on the weekends to be washed.

If for some reason we need to be relocated, there will be a sign stating where you can find us and a message sent via SeeSaw
In the event of an emergency which would require S.A.C.C. to be closed, families will be notified as soon as possible.

Dress Code

Participants must adhere to the district dress code while attending S.A.C.C

Outdoor Clothing Requirements

Going outside is a frequent activity.

Children should be prepared to spend time outside everyday, weather permitting.

It is the parents responsibility to make sure their child is prepared for the weather each day they attend S.A.C.C. If children frequently are not dressed appropriately for the weather as listed above, parents/guardians will be called and will need to make arrangements to pick up early so other participants can still enjoy their outdoor time.

Less than 50 degrees:

Sweatshirt or Coat

40 degrees or less:

Winter Coat
Stocking Cap
Gloves/Mittens

20 degrees and less

Winter Coat
Stocking Cap
Gloves/Mittens
Snowpants

Below 0 degrees:

Children will not go outside during S.A.C.C. hours

When there is snow or mud on the ground

Boots
Snowpants

*temperatures used from Fox9 weather app “feels like” temp

Students do not have access to their classrooms during S.A.C.C. hours.

All participants should have an extra set of clothes in a ziploc bag labeled with their name kept in their backpack. If the need arises for clothes to be changed and child is without extra clothes, parents/guardians will be called to pick up their child.

Sandals, flip flops, open toe shoes of any kind are not allowed for outdoor activities. If a child arrives without the proper footwear, the child’s participation in activities will be limited.

During snow/rain seasons outdoor footwear is not allowed to be worn in the classroom. Children may keep a pair of extra shoes at S.A.C.C. if they choose.

Behavior Expectations

Staff will be encouraged to use positive techniques to guide the behavior of children by giving positive attention, setting appropriate limits, and using appropriate discipline methods following school wide PBIS. Some of the tools that we may use are; redirection, logical consequences, participation in the solution, conflict resolution, natural consequences and/or having the child take a break.

Reasons for disciplinary action include but are not limited to

Children’s (their own or others) safety is at risk
Staff safety is at risk.
Child is causing an overall disruption to the program.

Behaviors such as insubordinate behavior; unwillingness to participate in group activities and follow the daily schedule; verbal or physical abuse to other children or staff; fighting; threats; bullying; “running away” from staff and/or the designated area; outbursts; yelling; inappropriate language or actions; stealing; destruction of property; unwillingness to clean up after themself: the inability to follow the program guidelines or other behaviors that compromise a safe and positive environment for all students will result in disciplinary action which may include :

write up
calling parents to pick up child
suspension
termination

Disciplinary action steps may be skipped depending on the severity of the behavior.

WEM School Age Child Care reserves the right to terminate care at any time for the safety and well being of all participants.

Bucs Pride

The school wide PBIS (positive behavioral interventions and supports) Bucs Pride program exemplifying our core values of: RESPECTFUL, RESPONSIBLE, POSITIVE, SAFE, and KIND will be implemented throughout the S.A.C.C. program.

The expectation is not only students participating in S.A.C.C., but also staff and parents/guardians will model behaviors that are respectful, responsible, positive, safe and kind.

The school age child care staff strives to provide an environment focused on these core values. Each child will be taught expectations of conduct and be reminded to follow these expectations while in the program. Teaching the core values will allow students in our care to form a foundation that they can build upon through all aspects of their lives.

Photography

Photos and videos representing the WEM School Age Child Care Program may appear on the district website, district social media, local newspaper, brochures and other advertising of WEM Community Education. If you do not want your child photographed please notify the school age care coordinator at the time of registration.

Transportation

WEM School Age Child Care does not provide transportation to and from childcare.
It is the parents/guardians responsibility to make arrangements to get their child to and from S.A.C.C.
In the event of field trips that are further than walking distance, transportation will be provided by bus drivers employed by the WEM School District.

Severe Weather

Severe Weather Watch

During a tornado watch, or other threatening weather, S.A.C.C. staff will be on alert for developing and dangerous conditions, and actions deemed necessary for safety will be taken per building procedures. It is recommended that families make arrangements to pick up their children as soon as possible during severe weather watches so they are not on the road during severe weather events.

Severe Weather Warning

During a tornado warning staff and students will seek shelter following building procedures (in room 118 across from the S.A.C.C. room). We will continue to shelter in place until the warning has expired. Students will not be permitted to be dropped off while a warning is in effect. Parents who arrive at school during an active warning may seek shelter with their child at school until the all clear is given.

Winter Storm Warning

On scheduled school days S.A.C.C. will follow the late start early dismissal policy according to any changes in the school schedule made by the district. On non school days the community education director and school age care coordinator will make a decision based on road conditions for the safety of our staff and families if S.A.C.C. will need to close or adjust hours.

Communication may be limited during severe weather due to the supervision and safety of students being our top priority and the limitations weather may present.

Emergency/Weather Related Change in School Schedule

2 hour late start: S.A.C.C. will open 2 hours late at 8:30AM

all participants registered to attend before school S.A.C.C.

may be dropped off anytime between 8:30AM and 9:45AM

Early dismissal: S.A.C.C. will be closed
School Closed: S.A.C.C. will also be closed

If a school closing is called after 6:30AM when children are already in attendance, S.A.C.C. will close one hour after the call is made. Parents will need to make arrangements to have their children picked up within the hour.
Children will not be allowed to be dropped off at S.A.C.C. once a closing has been announced.

If evening activities and or classes are canceled but school remains in session all day

S.A.C.C. will remain open based on conditions of each specific event and may close early. A minimum of one hour's notice will be given when closing early.
We encourage parents to make pickup arrangements as early as possible for the safety of the children and staff.

Make sure your contact information is up to date in JMC to receive notification from the district regarding school closures.

Rates are not reduced for days or time missed due to emergency closings.

WEM School Age Child Care reserves the right to close or adjust hours

due to extreme weather and other unforeseen circumstances as necessary.

Food & Nutrition

Children attending before school S.A.C.C. will go to the cafeteria at approximately 8:00AM and have the option to participate in the school free breakfast program.
School breakfast is not offered on late start days.
WEM S.A.C.C. will provide healthy choices for afternoon snacks.
Snacks or treats may be brought in to share with the group; however, all items must be store bought and include the ingredient list. No home baked items will be allowed for sharing. Please inform the S.A.C.C. coordinator in advance if bringing treats to share. .
Families will need to provide a bag lunch for their child on non school days.
No pop or candy. (Unless provided by S.A.C.C. for a special event)
Outside food is not allowed at S.A.C.C. except lunches on non school days or when treats are brought to share with the group

Medication Administration

If there is a need for medication to be given while children are at S.A.C.C.

The medication authorization form must be filled out properly and have both a parent/guardian and a doctor’s signature.
The medication authorization must be turned in to the school age care coordinator before any medication is permitted at S.A.C.C.
All medication must be in the original bottle that includes a label.
It is the family's responsibility to ensure that medication is given directly to a staff member.
Children may not have any type of medication in their possession (backpack).
Expired medications will not be given.

Documentation of all medication (prescription and over the counter; tylenol, cough drops, etc) given while a child is at S.A.C.C. is required that includes

Child's First and Last Name
Name of Medication and Prescription Number
Date(s), Time(s), and Dosage of Medication given
Name and Signature of Person who Administered the Medication

Whenever possible medication should be administered by the school nurse during regular school hours.

Allergies

If your child has an allergy (including seasonal allergies), it is important that we are notified. If a child is exposed to the allergen parents/guardians will be notified as soon as possible and proper care will be given per an allergy action plan. The MDH Child Allergy Information Form will be required for all participants who have an allergy indicated on their enrollment form.

Accident & injury recording and reporting

WEM School Age Child Care works hard to ensure the safety of the children in our program, however sometimes accidents happen. If an accident and injury happens an accident/injury form will be filled out. All major injuries will result in parent/guardian contact.

If an injury is serious parents/guardians will be contacted as soon as possible to pick up their child. If a major incident happens which requires emergency care, 9-1-1 will be called.

WEM School Age Child Care does not have a registered nurse on staff.

All employees are trained in first aid and CPR.

Illness Policy

Parents are responsible for keeping ill children home and notifying the school age care coordinator when their child will be absent. If a child becomes ill while at S.A.C.C., they will be isolated from the other children. Parents are responsible for making arrangements to have their child picked up WITHIN ONE HOUR. In the event that staff cannot reach a parent/guardian, an authorized emergency contact person will be called to pick up the child.

All participants must complete the self screening thoroughly each day before attending.

Failure to complete the self screening, falsifying and/or withholding information will result in termination of childcare services.

The primary reasons for exclusion from child care are that the condition:

Prevents the child from participating comfortably in activities
Results in a need for care that is greater than staff members can provide without compromising the health and safety of other children
Poses a risk of spread to others.

A child with any of the following conditions or behaviors is a sick child and must be excluded from a childcare not licensed to operate a sick care program. If the child becomes sick while at S.A.C.C. the child must be isolated from other children in care and the parent called immediately to make arrangements to have their child picked up within one hour. Children with any of the following must not attend S.A.C.C. and parents must notify the school age care coordinator:

answers yes to any of the self screening questions
who is not able to participate in child care program activities with reasonable comfort;
who requires more care than the program staff can provide without compromising the health and safety of other children in care

.with a reportable illness

Children may return to S.A.C.C. when all the following are true;

if requested has provided documentation from a health care provider with all required information
has met exclusion criteria
symptoms have improved
is able to eat and drink normally
no vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours
fever free for 24 hours without use of fever reducing medication
cough is infrequent and mild without the use of cough medicine
has no respiratory difficulty
does not have copious nasal secretions
is alert, active, and playful
can comfortably participate in all childcare activities

When seen by a health care provider due to illness a doctor's note is required before returning to S.A.C.C. that includes: child's name, date, and diagnosis given,.

Communicable diseases (as listed in the daily self screening question 4) MUST BE REPORTED to the school age child care coordinator immediately. In the case of infectious or communicable disease, families will be notified the same day the program is made aware of a child’s contagious reportable disease.

If a child is sent home sick from SACC, they will need to remain out a minimum of 24 hours.

There are many viruses that cause illnesses with and without fevers and all should be treated with good hand washing hygiene and keeping a sick child home while they are symptomatic.

By enrolling your child in S.A.C.C., you are agreeing to follow the WEM School Age Child Care illness policy and are required to notify the coordinator regarding symptoms or illness.

All licensed child care providers are required to follow directives as listed by DHS and the MN Department of Health. DHS may issue licensing actions including correction orders, fines, conditional licenses, revocations, and suspensions to providers who do not comply.

Important note: As a certified child care center WEM School Age Child Care is required to follow guidelines from DCYF relating to childcare. These policies may be different from the general district policies. For questions relating to the classroom, please reach out to Jamie Reuvers, the school nurse.

Immunizations

By a child's date of attendance, the certified center must maintain or have access to a record detailing the child's current immunizations or applicable exemption.

This handbook may be changed or amended at any time.

Enrolled families will be notified of any changes in writing

What parents have to say

Thanks for doing such a great job!
You guys do an amazing job. Our son absolutely loves going.
My kids have been going to sacc for a few years now and are very comfortable when they are there. Jennifer takes pride in making sure each child’s needs are met and also makes each child feel welcome when they are there. Jennifer always is responsive to any questions my family has had. WEM couldn’t ask for a better person to have running this program.
I am so happy this program is offered thru the community, makes life a little less hectic.
Thanks for the care you provide! It's fun and safe, everything a mom could want.
SACC is well structured and a consistent and fun routine. My child feels safe and knows what to expect and what is expected of them every day.
I like all the different activities SACC has
Our Kiddos get excited for the days they have SACC! So glad we are apart of the team!
SACC is a reliable, safe resource for both our kids and parents. Without SACC, parents may not be able to meet the expectations of their employers. We appreciate the support our district gives to the SACC program and its staff.
The friendships that are made have been great. My daughter has gotten to know kids of all ages. I believe it’s because Miss Jennifer is doing a variety of activities where they get to know one another. My daughter enjoys going to SACC and feels connected to the teachers since it’s obvious they care about their kiddos! Also, appreciate them following the Bucs Pride rules and behavior.
We love SACC! It is a great option for parents that work. Kids are able to do fun activities and learn social and emotional skills to increase problem-solving skills as well as how to get along with others.
I think this is a fabulous program for the children and their parents.
Reliable Resource for Area Families.
My daughter loves sacc!
My daughter enjoys interacting with the SACC staff.
We are grateful to have a reliable and age-appropriate child care option!
My kids love SACC and all the staff!!
Great job !
We are thankful for the flexible hours as we have variable work schedules.
My child loves all staff members and enjoys attending year over year.
We are happy to have such a great program available for our kids, I would definitely recommend it to others!