Parent Handbook 2025-2026
Parent Handbook 2025-2026
Advantage Preschool - tuition based, Building Blocks, Kindergarten Prep, TOYBOX
Gilbert Public Schools
Community Education Business Office
&
District Preschool Office
6839 E Guadalupe Road, Mesa, AZ 85212
480.892.9089 x 0 - Community Education
480.497.3461 - Preschool Office
480.892.8775 - Fax
Gilbert Public Schools District Office
140 S. Gilbert Road, Gilbert AZ 85296
480.497.3300 - District Office
www.gilbertschools.net/preschool
Disclaimer
All information and policies in this handbook have been written with the intent to be a permanent policy. Policies and Procedures may be subject to change at the direction of Gilbert Public Schools, Maricopa County Health Department, CDC Guidance, and Department of Health and Human Services Protocol.
Table of Contents
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Programs 4
AZ Early Learning Childhood Standards 4
Advantage Preschool - Tuition based 5
Advanced Learning/Gifted Cluster Kindergarten Prep 6
Traditional Kindergarten Prep 6
S.T.E.A.M. Kindergarten Prep 6
Program Policies and Procedures 9
Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance 11
Fee Schedule and Hours of Operation 12
Advantage Preschool - Tuition Based 12
Early Drop Off or Late Pickup 13
Closures - All Preschool Programs 14
Medication Administration & Emergency Procedures 18
Absences, Illness, Accidents, and Emergencies 18
Immunization & Emergency Contacts 19
Additional Community Education Programming 26
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Programs
Mission Statement
The vision of the Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Department was born out of a desire to provide opportunities to enhance its excellent educational programs. Our goal is to create programs that reflect our commitment to providing high standards for quality programs within a nurturing, friendly, and safe environment.
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Programs provide a loving, safe, fun, and educational environment for children. Children of ages three, four and five are given an opportunity to choose from a variety of well-rounded programs that meet their developmental needs and interests.
AZ Early Learning Childhood Standards
All Gilbert Public School Preschool Programs follow the AZ Early Learning Childhood Standards. The Arizona Early Learning Standards, 4th Edition (AzELS) provides a framework for the planning of quality early learning experiences for all children three to five years of age. The AzELS framework provides an essential first step for designing and/or choosing an effective, high-quality preschool curriculum.
Advantage, Building Blocks, Kinder-Prep and TOYBOX Preschool programs are licensed and inspected by the Arizona Department of Health Services (DHS). Facility inspection reports are available for public viewing at the Arizona Department of Health Services, 150 N. 18th Avenue, Suite 400, Phoenix, AZ 85007-3244 and at each campus.
Please carefully read the Parent Handbook.
You are responsible for the information it contains.
If you have any questions, please contact
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Office at 480.497.3461
Gilbert Public Schools tax ID number for claiming child care expenses: 86-6000530.
Program Descriptions
Advantage Preschool - Tuition based
This guided play program is aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards, with a focus on critical thinking skills and social/emotional development. Thematic units are explored by students using a variety of learning styles and modalities, which in turn, ignites curiosity and encourages sustained attention. The program is supplemented using Handwriting without Tears and Creative Curriculum intentional learning materials. Typically developing peers and those with developmental delays work together and grow in one inclusive environment. Instruction is individualized based upon ongoing progress monitoring (Child Outcome Summary) so the teacher knows what a child knows and what they are ready to learn next. This is data that is collected by the state to insure that programs are meeting state standards. *Tuition Students in Advantage Preschool are role model students. They need to have typical development in all developmental domains, have fluent English language skills, and be toilet trained.
Building Blocks Preschool
We believe academics and social development are intertwined, and that curriculum is a living, growing aspect of preschool. We have a commitment to each school’s design and firmly believe that this commitment is crucial to our students’ success. We begin by understanding that every student is different. We focus on using each student’s strengths to build upon those areas that need developing. Learning is applied through academics and exploratory play. These activities can be child-directed or teacher directed. With a fluid schedule, teachers are then able to assess transitions and begin to build a foundation tailored to each individual student. Programming is aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards, and is supplemented with: Fundations, and Handwriting Without Tears materials. Building Blocks passionately encourages school involvement through opportunities for PE, Library, Music, Art, fun runs, assemblies, school pictures, spirit weeks, and other fun site-specific activities. Building Blocks runs a school day from 7:45am-3:15pm. For an additional cost, parents can extend the day from 6:30 am to 6:00 pm through the Community Education VIK before/after school program.
Within the 3’s program, students will engage with specially designed, curriculum-based material. By utilizing circle time routines students are introduced to letters, numbers, colors, days of the week, months, and weather. While using a small group setting, our 3-year-olds’ complete six learning centers a day. In between learning centers are lunch, rest time, and exploration play. The day begins and concludes with a structured based play which focuses on socialization. By constructing a curriculum containing a more challenging approach to the same subjects included in our 3’s program, our 4 and young 5-year-olds continue to master letters, numbers, colors, the calendar, writing their names, addresses, phone numbers, and begin preparation for reading readiness. Socialization and opportunities to build friendships are encouraged throughout our school day schedule. Upon completion of the Building Blocks program, our students have the foundation in place to enter kindergarten with the tools, experiences, and passion for learning that helps to ensure academic success now and well into the future.
Dual Language Exploration
At Gilbert Elementary, our Dual Language Exploration program offers you and your 3-year-old and/or 4-year-old child a great opportunity to try out and get a head start in our popular Dual Language Immersion program. Students have the option to explore the language and culture of Spanish at Gilbert Elementary in addition to their core preschool subjects, which include literacy, mathematics, science, social studies, fine arts, physical education and more. Developmental age-appropriate language resources will enhance the learning experience in this program of choice.
Kindergarten Prep
At Gilbert Public Schools, we believe that for a preschooler, the road to knowledge is exploration.
Conventional Kindergarten Prep
Kindergarten Prep is a 20 student program taught by a certified teacher with a classroom assistant, designed to give your child a jump start on becoming a prepared and eager Gilbert Public Schools student ready for the rigors of Kindergarten! Kindergarten Prep curriculum focuses on literacy and academic content in an intentionally developed preschool environment. It is aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards, and is supplemented with: Fundations, Handwriting Without Tears, We Thinkers! Social-Emotional curriculum, S.T.E.A.M. and Unplugged Coding activities.
Advanced Learning/Gifted Cluster Kindergarten Prep
The KPrep classroom at Ashland Ranch Elementary has an Advanced Learning/GIFTED cluster model in the PM where identified through a screener, high achieving students and identified gifted students work collaboratively. Strategies are intentionally tailored to meet the diverse needs of the advanced learner and the gifted child. Enrichment methods will be implemented throughout the program. The class is taught by a certified teacher with an endorsement in gifted education. The cluster model offers the best of both worlds - a developmental learning environment with high achieving typical peers and small group interaction with like-minded peers. Like the Conventional model, this classroom is designed to give your child a jump start on becoming a prepared and eager Gilbert Public Schools student ready for the rigors of Kindergarten! The class is taught integrating strategies that accelerate learning and have the gifted learner in mind.
Traditional Kindergarten Prep
Traditional Preschool aligns with the same curriculum that is found on our Traditional Campuses (Spectrum, Neely and Canyon Rim). Your child will have the opportunity to transform learning into a walk of discovery, offering safe and exciting opportunities for experimentation, challenge and fun at every turn! This program is designed to give your child a jumpstart on becoming a prepared and eager student ready for the rigors of Kindergarten! A child that is ready to focus and sit a little longer than average is a student that would be the most successful. Traditional Preschool teachings are aligned with the Arizona Department of Education Early Learning Standards, and are supplemented with Spalding, Math in Focus, STEM Activities, Unplugged Computer Coding and Learning Without Tears. This classroom is a 20 student program taught by a certified teacher with a classroom assistant.
S.T.E.A.M. Kindergarten Prep
Through project-based learning, the concepts of problem solving, creativity and investigation are introduced and reinforced to our early learners in the S.T.E.A.M. KPrep program located at Quartz Hill. This is a full school-day program where the selected activities align with the Arizona Early Learning standards as they support developing early critical thinking skills and global mindedness. Through these experiences, children will use their imagination, be innovators and be inspired as emerging Trailblazers!
TOYBOX
TOYBOX offers a full “Play Based” curriculum teaching all subjects each day including language and literacy, STEM (science, tools, engineering and math), social studies, art, music, and PE. Our goal is to prepare children for success in Kindergarten as well as their entire educational careers. We work hard to build a positive foundation for school success and a love for learning. The TOYBOX Early Learning Center provides the opportunity for children to develop social relationships with peers, gain a positive self-concept and foster an attitude of enthusiasm about school at an early age.
Children learn to think critically, solve problems creatively, and interact in group situations. Having the support of the high school students helps to maintain a low child to adult ratio, resulting in more one-on-one attention and learning. The high school students observe, plan and work with the children under the direction and guidance of Early Childhood professionals. Being on a high school campus allows TOYBOX unique opportunities to participate in many activities such as trying out the instruments in orchestra, creating pottery with clay, participating in simple science experiments, making a creative snack with culinary, or visiting the animals in the agriculture lab.
Preschool Program Locations
Advantage Preschool
- Ashland Ranch
- Augusta Ranch
- Boulder Creek
- Burk
- Canyon Rim
- Carol Rae Ranch
- Finley Farms
- Gilbert El
- Greenfield
- Harris
- Highland Park
- Meridian
- Mesquite
- Oak Tree
- Patterson
- Playa del Rey
- Quartz Hill
- Settler’s Point
- Sonoma Ranch
- Spectrum
- Superstition Springs
- Towne Meadows
- Val Vista Lakes
Building Blocks
- Ashland Ranch 4’s
- Boulder Creek 3 / 4 class
- Carol Rae Ranch 3’s & 4’s
- Finley Farms 3’s & 4’s
- Gilbert El 3’s & 4’s
- Islands 3 / 4 class
- Meridian 3’s & 4’s
- Mesquite 3’s & 4’s
- Playa del Rey 3’s & 4’s
- Sonoma Ranch 3’s & 4’s
- Spectrum 3’s & 4’s
- Superstition Springs 3 / 4 class
Kindergarten Prep
- Ashland Ranch (Advanced Learning/Gifted Cluster)
- Canyon Rim (Traditional)
- Highland Park
- Neely Traditional Academy
- Quartz Hill (S.T.E.A.M.)
- Superstition Springs
- Val Vista Lakes
TOYBOX
- Campo Verde High School
- Desert Ridge High School
- Gilbert High School
- Highland High School
- Mesquite High School
Program Policies and Procedures
Minimum Age Requirements
Advantage Preschool
*3 years old by August 31, 2025
Building Blocks
*3’s Program - 3 years old by August 31, 2025
4’s Program - 4 years old by August 31, 2025
Kindergarten Prep
4 years old by August 31, 2025
TOYBOX
*3 years old by August 31, 2025
*Students may not start attending the program until they turn 3 years of age per AZDHS Licensing.
Enrollment Procedures
Registration must be completed online. All information needs to be filled in completely during registration. The required information will be used to complete your child’s registration form and emergency information sheet. You will need to submit a copy of your child’s birth certificate along with proof of current immunizations. During the registration process on Eleyo you will create your user name and password for future access to your account. A non-refundable registration fee per child and security deposit or first month’s tuition is due at the time of registration. After your registration has been approved you will receive a confirmation email. Employee discount must be verified before registration approval. *If your child has an IEP, the supervisor of your specific program must review and approve it prior to registration approval. Please email your students IEP to nancy.parker@gilbertschools.net
In addition to the Eleyo registration into a preschool class, an online district pre-enrollment must be completed for each preschooler. Please Note: Enter the child in the Infinite Campus enrollment as an "enrolling student". & "GPS Holding" as the campus. New Family Registration | Existing GPS Family Registration (Infinite Campus) If your child is a returning GPS student you may skip this step.
Requirements
Age
Students must turn 3 years old by August 31, 2025. They may not start until on or after their 3rd birthday. For Kindergarten Prep and Building Blocks 4’s, students must turn 4 by August 31, 2025.
Toileting
All students must be completely independent in toileting; to be considered completely independent in toileting, a child must be able to do ALL of the following:
- Are able to communicate the need to go to the toilet; including but not limited to, demonstrating control over going if they must wait for someone who is in the bathroom or if away from the bathroom
- Can independently pull down their underwear and pants and pull them back up when done. This includes clothing with belts, buttons, zippers etc., if worn to school.
- Can independently clean their bottoms after using the toilet
- Get on and off the toilet by themselves
- Wash and dry their hands by themselves
- Disposable training pants (i.e. Pull-ups) are not permitted per AZDHS Licensing
Both the Eleyo and Infinite Campus registrations must be completed by July 15, 2025 in order to ensure the ability to start on the first day of school. Registration must also be finalized on the campus prior to the child’s start date. Your student may not attend the program until you have received a confirmation email, completed the additional district registration and finalized registration at the campus. GPS Preschool Programs enroll on a first-come, first-served basis.
An incomplete “Emergency Information and Immunization Record” may delay enrollment or start date in the program. It is the parent’s responsibility to keep enrollment records current.
Enrollment Limits
Student enrollment limits in GPS Preschool Programs are determined by two factors: availability of space and AZDHS capacity limit guidelines. Each school determines the space that the program will utilize. Programs offered during the school day may be reduced or relocated yearly due to changes in student enrollment at individual school locations.
Schedules
Gilbert Public Schools Preschools provide a variety of programs and schedules to fit the community needs. Upon registration, families can select a program and schedule for the school year. Modification to contracts can be requested in the Eleyo system, requests will be reviewed, approved or denied based on availability of the specific program.
Department of Economic Security (DES) Child Care Assistance
Participants receiving DES Child Care Assistance are responsible for their co-pay assigned by DES and any remaining charges not reimbursed by DES during the school year. Please note that DES only reimburses for days that the child/children attend per our DES Contract. If a child has been scheduled and does not attend, a charge will be assessed for that day at regular program rates. Please ensure a contract and schedule has been selected per program policy to avoid any extra fees.
Parents are required to sign and date the DES Signature Log for each child/children attending a preschool program on a weekly basis so that it can be included with the DES Billing Document. If the DES Signature Log is not signed by the parent, the regular rate will apply and be charged to the account. Parents are responsible for charges not reimbursed by DES.
Billing and Payments
A security deposit and/or first tuition payment is due at the time of registration along with a registration fee.** Subsequent payments are invoiced on the 10th of each month, auto drafted on the 15th of the month prior to the month attending. A late payment fee and suspension of attendance will be applied on the first of each month if tuition has not been paid. Attendance may resume when accounts hold a zero balance. If your account is not brought current by the 5th of the month, the registration will be forfeited and a new preschool registration will be required for enrollment. Programs require an AutoPay be saved in your Eleyo account to be used for monthly payments.
Tuition is based upon the total number of school days that a student can attend their selected program, times the daily rate of the program divided by 10 months
to create equal payments.
Security deposits will be applied to the first scheduled tuition payment.
All payments must be submitted online in your Eleyo accounts.
The Community Education Business Office
6839 E. Guadalupe Road, Mesa, AZ 85212
Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Closed on Fridays during June & July.
Computers are available to use during regular office hours.
The Community Education Office is not responsible if payment is late due to personal technical difficulties.
Gilbert Public Schools tax ID number for claiming child care expenses: 86-6000530
Fee Schedule and Hours of Operation
Registration Fee: $50
Fees listed below are tuition fees due monthly. The yearly tuition is divided into 10 equal monthly installments.
Advantage Preschool - Tuition Based
AM - 8:00 am-10:30 am
PM - 11:15 am-1:45 pm
3 Day Option
M/T/Th
$260.00
4 Day Option
M/T/Th/F
$300.00
Integrated SPICE
Canyon Rim and Finley Farms
M/T/Th/F
$100.00
Building Blocks
School Day - 7:45 am-3:15 pm*
(new hours)
T/Th - $475.00
M/W/F - $600.00
Mon-Fri - $825.00
*Extended day hours (6:30 am - 6:00 pm) are available for Building Blocks preschool students and their families for an additional charge through the Community Education VIK before/after school program.
Kindergarten Prep
Half Day
Conventional: Ashland Ranch, Highland Park, Superstition & Val Vista
Traditional: Canyon Rim, Spectrum & Neely
AM Classes: Mon-Fri 8:15 am-11:15 am
$530.00
PM Classes: M/T/Th/F 12:15 pm-3:15 pm
$410.00
Full Day
Conventional: Superstition Springs, Val Vista
S.T.E.A.M: Quartz Hill
Traditional: Canyon Rim & Spectrum
Monday-Friday
8:15 am-3:15 pm
*Wednesday Early Release 11:15 am
$950.00
TOYBOX
School Day - 7:00 am - 4:30 pm
Part Time (3 days/week) - $600.00
Full Time - $765.00
- GPS employees may call the Community Education office for employee rates
- Only one discount may be applied per preschool schedule-the largest discount will be used.
Tours
If you would like to schedule a tour of a GPS preschool program you will submit your tour request online at gilbertschools.net/visit The campus office staff and/or classroom teacher will make the arrangements for your visit.
Registration Payments
For registrations prior to or on June 30, 2025, a $100 security deposit and $50 registration fee will be collected at the time of registration with the remaining tuition balance due by July 15, 2025. Both security deposit and registration fee are non-refundable.
For registration on or after July 1, 2025, the registration fee and 1st-month tuition are due at the time of registration and are both non-refundable.
Refund Policy
GPS Preschool Programs have a non-refundable registration fee, security deposit and monthly tuition policy. Refunds are not given for student absences including unused, sick days and vacation days.
All preschool program’s enrollment is on a first come first serve basis. There are maximum and minimum enrollment requirements for all programs. Parents will be notified if enrollments are not adequate to have a program at a site. Credit is not given for unused, sick or vacation days.
Early Drop Off or Late Pickup
An early/late pick up fee of $1.00 for every minute will be assessed for any drop offs prior to your scheduled class time or late pick ups after your scheduled class time. Attendance is taken through the iPad at each site with the exception of Advantage Preschool. Children that are signed in early or out late, according to their Program Contract time, will be charged the early/late fee per the policy of the program attending. The charge will be applied to your account and will show on the following month's invoice.
More than five early drop offs and/or late pick-ups per semester may result in dismissal of your child from the program.
Additional Fees
Late payments: $25.00 late fill will be billed if the account is not paid in full within 5 days of the due date.
Program Start Dates
Advantage Preschool
Thursday, July 24, 2025
Building Blocks
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Kindergarten Prep
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
TOYBOX
Tuesday, July 22, 2025
Program End Dates
Advantage Preschool
Tuesday, May 19, 2026
Building Blocks
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Kindergarten Prep
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 (AM/Full Day)
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 (PM)
TOYBOX
Thursday, May 21, 2026
Closures - All Preschool Programs
All Preschool Programs will be closed on the following days. Dates subject to change, based on GPS District Calendar.
Labor Day
September 1, 2025
Fall Break
Sept 29 - Oct 10, 2025
Veteran’s Day
November 11, 2025
Thanksgiving
November 27-29, 2025
Winter Break #1
December 22-31, 2025
Winter Break #2
January 1-2, 2026
Martin Luther King Day
January 19, 2026
President’s Day
February 16, 2026
Spring Break
March 9-20, 2026
Spring Holiday
April 3, 2026
Additional Program Closures and Early Release Days
Advantage Preschool
- no school days
September 18-19: Parent Conferences
September 26: Grading Day
December 18-19: Grading Day
March 6: Grading Day
Building Blocks
N/A
TOYBOX
Closes at 3:30 the day before
Fall, Winter, Spring & Summer Breaks
Kindergarten Prep
AM & Full Day
11:15 am Release
EVERY WEDNESDAY
September 18-19: Parent Conferences
September 26: Grading Day
December 19: Grading Day
March 6: Grading Day
PM Kinder Prep
No Class
EVERY WEDNESDAY
September 26: Grading Day
December 19: Grading Day
March 6: Grading Day
Holidays Camps
Enrollment in any GPS Preschool Program grants you a waived registration fee into the GPS Holiday Camps or for VIK extended day programming for Building Blocks Preschool. Registration information can be found in your Eleyo account.
GPS Preschool will offer Holiday Camps at a few select locations on the following holidays:
Fall Break
Sept 29 - Oct 10, 2025
Veteran’s Day
November 11, 2025
Day before Thanksgiving Holiday
November 26, 2025
Winter Break #1
December 22-23, 26, 2025
Winter Break #2
Dec 29-30, 2025 & Jan 2, 2026
Martin Luther King Day
January 19, 2026
President’s Day
February 16, 2026
Spring Break
March 9-13, & 16-20, 2026
Community Education Business & Preschool Offices are Closed On Holiday Camp Days
All Holiday Camp sites and dates are subject to change and are based on enrollment.
Family Involvement
GPS Preschool Programs truly believes the key to the success of the program involves both staff and parents. The staff appreciates your thoughts, ideas, and concerns regarding the program.
Special events give you a chance to spend time with staff, engage in various activities, meet other parents, and explore your child’s environment. Parents are invited to attend field trips with their children or visit them at classrooms at any time. Each family will receive information about curriculum, activities, and special events. Parents may have access to the areas of the facility premises where their child is receiving services. Our curriculums are available for review at each site or at the Preschool Office.
Behavioral Guidelines
Because social growth is so crucial during the preschool years, our preschool teams will focus on helping children learn appropriate behaviors. Behavioral guidelines have been established with the goal of not only maintaining the physical and emotional well-being of each student, but also of teaching self-discipline, judgment, and manners. Positive techniques are used to guide children’s behavior. Parents and staff are viewed as partners in guiding a child’s development. Staff will work with parents and teachers to establish consistency for each child. Parents will be kept informed of problems should they arise.
Appropriate behavior is essential to learning and growing and should be based upon mutual respect for the rights and property of others, respect for those placed in authority, and respect for every student. No one will be allowed to jeopardize the health, safety, or learning environment of other children. Children will be expected to display responsible behavior when they are attending a GPS Preschool Program. Emphasis is placed upon each student taking responsibility for his/her own behaviors. For more severe or continuous problems, one or more of the following may result: incident report, conference with parent, suspension, and/or removal from their program.
The following are general expectations of all students. Individual sites may choose to extend these expectations:
- Listen and follow directions the first time given.
- Keep hands, feet, and all objects to self.
- Respect others and equipment.
- Use words to solve problems. If that doesn’t work, ask a staff member for assistance.
- Never be out of sight or sound of staff.
For more severe** or continuous issues*, one or more of the following may result:
- Phone call to parent which may result in student leaving for the remainder of the day
- Written incident report
- Conference with parent
- Behavior Improvement Plan developed to support the child (if student is not a risk to others)
- Removal from the program
*If the Preschool Team determines that a child cannot benefit from the program or presents a danger to other children, parents may need to withdraw their child from the program.
**If the Preschool Team determines that a student would benefit from going through a screening process in the district of residence, due to concerns about the child's development, and possibly needing intervention, the parent will be notified as soon as possible. Depending on the level of concern, parents may need to withdraw their child from the program.
Transportation Policy
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Programs do not provide transportation to or from our tuition programs. Parents and/or guardians are responsible for transporting their child to and from the campuses.
Sign In & Out Procedures
For the safety of your child, individuals will be required to show proof of ID to the site staff at any time. A child will not be released to an individual refusing to show ID upon request. Police will be called if a child is removed from the program by anyone refusing to show ID. Always bring an ID to the site. Do not assume you will not need it.
AZDHS requires that a parent or an authorized party sign a child in and out of a Preschool Program each day. To sign a child out, the parent or authorized party must sign in ink his/her full name, the date, and the time or use the digital sign in and out tablet. The child must leave the site once he/she has been signed out.
A child enrolled in a GPS Preschool Program will be released only to those persons specifically authorized on the emergency information form (blue card). Exceptions cannot be made without advance written permission of the parent. Site staff are not eligible to be authorized signers. It is assumed that both parents have the right to pick up a child unless it is otherwise noted. If one parent has sole legal custody of a child, the Preschool Office must have a legal document on file stating such.
In the case of an extreme emergency only, the parent/guardian who registered the child for preschool program may call the site to authorize emergency telephone release of their child to a designated person. Parents will be asked very specific information regarding their child prior to the release being authorized by the staff. AZDHS requires a photo ID from the designated person at the time the child is picked up from the site.
We cannot assume responsibility for personal belongings. Please have your child leave personal belongings in his/her backpack or at home. This includes any electronics. Please clearly mark any item your child does bring.
Special Needs
Gilbert Public Schools Preschool Programs fully complies with the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, applicable AZDHS regulations, and applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Reasonable modifications will be provided to afford a student with a disability meaningful access to our programs, unless demonstrated that the modification would be a fundamental alteration in the nature of the programs, or constitute an undue financial and administrative burden. Any student, including students with disabilities, may be removed from a preschool program if that student, even with reasonable modifications, is so disruptive to the program that other students cannot participate in or are in danger.
If your child has special needs or disabilities, please contact the supervisor of your program prior to registration. AZDHS regulations (R9-5-507) require that you provide copies of the following: your child’s IEP, medication schedule, and qualifications for staff.
Medication Administration & Emergency Procedures
Medication is not given to participants without prior arrangements with the staff. If approved, only physician-prescribed medication in the original prescription container will be given. The container must be labeled by the pharmacist and must include the name of the student, date, dosage, name of the medication, and method of administration. A “Medication Consent Form” for the administration of medication must be completed by the parent or guardian and be kept on file at the site. Any unused or expired prescription medication will be returned to the parent or guardian. Medications will be disposed of two weeks after the expiration date or a child’s withdrawal from the program. In case of an emergency, as determined by program staff, paramedics will be called and a parent will be notified immediately. Parents will be responsible for all costs incurred in such emergencies. A separate medication consent form must be filled out for holiday camps and summer camp. Please contact your campus staff for further instructions on medication requirements for holiday and/or summer camps.
Absences, Illness, Accidents, and Emergencies
Parents must inform the campus attendance line when an absence is due to illness. A child should not attend class with any of the following symptoms: fever within the past 24 hours, vomiting, diarrhea, undiagnosed rash, inflamed or matter-filled eyes, severe cold or sore throat, swollen glands, head or stomach aches, or head lice.
If a child becomes ill while attending a program, for example, with a temperature of 100.0o or higher, vomiting, frequent diarrhea, or onset of a rash, etc., a parent/guardian/emergency contact must pick up the child within an hour of being notified.
Children who are ill with a contagious disease or fever may not attend class. Parents must inform the school and site staff when an absence is due to a potentially infectious illness.
If a child is injured at the site, first aid will be administered. If a physician must treat a child, every effort will be made to contact the child’s parent/guardian and the doctor indicated on the “Emergency Information and Immunization Record”. In the event of an emergency, a child will be given the necessary emergency treatment until a parent/guardian can be contacted.
Additional illness and absence requirements may be imposed by Gilbert Public School Health Services Department.
Toileting Accidents
If a child has a bowel movement accident, we will make the child as comfortable as possible and contact a parent to come and pick up the child if necessary. If the accident is due to diarrhea, then the child must be taken home. Please be advised, this does not apply to urinating accidents. We do realize that many young children will have "accidents" on occasion, especially in a new situation such as the beginning of the school year. However, if accidents become frequent, an adjustment period will be discussed to determine how to best meet the needs of your child while maintaining state enforced licensing standards. Please note that preschool staff are not licensed to change diapers, including Pull-Ups.
Dress
Bring your student to school in comfortable clothes that allow them to move around and not worry about getting dirty. Students must wear shorts/pants under dresses/skirts. It is also important to make sure they are appropriately dressed for the season. Children must wear closed toed shoes or sneakers. Flip flops, sandals, or heels are not appropriate. Closed toed shoes or sneakers are best for keeping children safe on our playground and throughout the day.
Immunization & Emergency Contacts
A child’s immunization records are required prior to attendance. The Arizona Department of Health Services (AZDHS) and Gilbert Public Schools Health Services require that the immunization record provided by a parent from a health care provider contain all current, age-appropriate immunizations. Immunization updates must be provided to the campus health office. Students may not attend if immunizations lapse.
It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure that the information on the “Emergency Information and Immunization Record”, filled out at registration, is kept current at the site and in your family account. It is extremely important that all home, business, and emergency contacts are correct. You will need to list at least four local emergency contacts, which includes parents, on the emergency record. For each of these four emergency contacts you will also select if they are an Authorized Pickup person for your child. No one may pick up your child unless listed as an authorized pick up person on Eleyo. You may update your Authorized Pickup list via your Eleyo Childcare Account.
Screenings
GPS Preschool Programs are proud to support the mandated Child Find efforts as outlined by the Arizona Department of Education. In compliance with the law, we will conduct Child Find developmental screenings on all students within their first 45 days of attendance in our program. We will discuss any developmental concerns that arise based upon your child's screening with you.
Screenings for vision and hearing are performed by the Health Services staff at the campus on preschool students during the school year. If you do not want your child to participate in any screenings, please contact the campus nurse. If a child is participating in developmental testing, vision and hearing screenings are a requirement for the testing process.
Staff/Child Ratio
To ensure the quality of our Preschool Programs, the staff-to-child ratios are kept below the standards of 1:13 set forth by the Arizona Department of Health Services.
Staff Qualifications
Staff members meet or exceed established educational and experience requirements for the positions held, participate in formal training each year, and undergo background checks through local, state, and federal authorities. Ongoing professional development opportunities in the areas of UDL (Universal Design of Learning), classroom management, social emotional development, conscious discipline, teaching strategies, AZELS (Arizona Early Learning Standards), safety practices, and child development are provided for all staff throughout the year.
Field Trip Procedures
Prior to any field trip the teacher shall provide parents with written information concerning the purpose of the trip, transportation, eating arrangements, and date and time of the field trip. Parents will be required to sign a field trip permission form. Parents must accompany their children on non-walking distance field trips. Transportation is not provided for those field trips that are not within walking distance.
Insurance
Gilbert Public Schools District carries liability insurance, which covers the GPS Preschool Programs. The insurance coverage is provided by Arizona School Risk Retention Trust, Inc. This coverage applies to any time your child is signed into a preschool program including off-site field trips. This policy does not provide accident/medical coverage and we suggest each child be covered on an individual or family health care plan.
Pesticide Application
In the event it becomes necessary to apply pesticide on the premises, parents will be notified in writing 48 hours prior to the pesticide application. The pesticide information as described in R9-3-306 of the Arizona Rules and Revised Statues will be included in the written document.
Empowerment Program
As an organization that is licensed with the State of Arizona Department of Health, we are also participants in the state’s Empowerment Program. This is a program that is focused on ensuring centers are incorporating specific nutritional guidelines and healthy practices such as sun safety, oral health, and reducing tobacco use in the community. This means that we must serve meals family style, provide families with information about sun safety, tobacco cessation, and ensure that children are receiving meals that are balanced with all food groups. We are also required to provide at least an hour of physical activity for the children daily, limit screen time to less than 3 hours a week, and limit juice intake to 4 ounces or less a day. If you have any further questions regarding our participation in this program, please feel free to contact your specific program’s supervisor and/or coordinator. You may also find additional information regarding this program at the Arizona Department of Health Child Care website www.azdhs.gov.
Calendars
Additional Community Education Programming
VIK CLUB
The VIK Club is offered to school age students at the following GPS elementary schools:
Ashland Ranch
Augusta Ranch
Boulder Creek
Burk
Canyon Rim
Carol Rae Ranch
Finley Farms
Gilbert
Greenfield
Harris *
Highland Park
Islands
Meridian
Mesquite
Neely
Oak Tree *
Patterson
Pioneer
Playa del Rey
Quartz Hill
Settler’s Point
Sonoma Ranch
Spectrum
Superstition Springs
Towne Meadows
Val Vista Lakes
*Harris students may be bussed to and from Oak Tree for VIK
Extended day for Building Blocks Preschool is offered at select campuses for an additional fee.
Enrichment
Welcome to high-quality student enrichment programs at Gilbert Public Schools! We offer a diverse selection of programs intended to encourage students to explore new educational opportunities. Student enrichment programs are available at most elementary school campuses throughout the District and are offered by our approved third party vendors in partnership with Gilbert Public Schools Community Education. Enrichment class selection and location for individual vendors may vary and/or change from session to session, semester to semester, so please check with Community Education for the most up to date class selections.
Gilbert Youth Athletics
Gilbert Youth Athletics is committed to providing top-tier coaching, utilizing elite facilities and focusing on the overall development of each student-athlete. It is our belief that great athletes must develop fundamental skills at a young age which prepares them for a future of success as they progress through high school and college programs.
Athletes have access to some of the best coaches in the state of Arizona who are committed to the development of young athletes, while also spending significant time emphasizing character and sportsmanship. Our slogan of “Two Steps Ahead” comes from the promise to our community that we provide an unparalleled program in terms of coaching, facilities and competition. Student-athletes will be two steps ahead as they move through their playing career as a result of coaches and program leaders who are relentless in their pursuit of excellence.
With player development being the focus we are able to identify the playing ability of all athletes and begin a structured approach of facilitating growth. This individualized approach is only possible as the result of employing excellent coaches who are committed to the player development process. All coaches are Gilbert Public Schools employees with many currently being on a junior high or high school coaching staff.
For registration materials or further information, call or visit us today:
Gilbert Public Schools Community Education
Phone: 480.892.9089 x 0
Fax: 480.892.8775
www.gilbertschools.net/communityeducation
Email: communityedbusinessdept@gilbertschools.net