Parent Handbook

Kids University: Fostering Bright Futures, Together

Welcome, dear families, to Kids University! As you step into our world, this Parent Handbook serves as your guide to understanding our commitment to fostering your child’s growth in a nurturing, engaging, and supportive environment. Here, we reveal the essence of what makes Kids University an exceptional place for your child’s educational journey.

Our Mission: Shaping Holistic Development

“Our mission at Kids University is to provide premier educational services, enhancing traditional daycare with a blend of extracurricular pursuits tailored to nurture the innate curiosity and potential of every child.”

We strive to craft a safe, stimulating space where young minds can blossom into confident, respectful, and enthusiastic learners. Kids University is about laying a solid foundation for your child’s future, with our “all-in-one” educational program designed to propel every child towards excellence. Our comprehensive, activity-based curriculum adapts to the diverse interests and needs of children, creating a dynamic and inclusive learning experience.

Philosophy: The Backbone of Our Educational Vision

Our guiding philosophy at Kids University underpins our educational approach, emphasizing the unique individuality and potential within each child:

• Teach, Show, Explore: Belief in the capabilities of each individual is at our core. We encourage children to explore ideas, articulate opinions, and nurture their curiosity.
• Teach Them Well The Way: Acknowledging varied abilities and learning styles, we provide the tools for children to build their knowledge through engaging and relevant themes, projects, and hands-on experiences.
• Show Them All The Beauty They Possess Inside, Give Them A Sense of Pride: In our caring and secure classrooms, children learn to appreciate their strengths and develop a confident, positive self-image.
• Let The Children’s Laughter Remind Us: The joy and innocence of children inspire us daily, reminding us of the simplicity and beauty in learning and connecting as a community.

Our Commitment to Excellence

Kids University proudly complies with and surpasses the licensure standards required by the states of Florida and Georgia, reflecting our commitment to safety, quality education, and a supportive learning environment. We are transparent about our certifications and continuously strive for accreditations that showcase our dedication to maintaining the highest educational standards. This relentless pursuit of excellence is embodied in our educational programming, staff development, and community engagement initiatives.

To enhance our curriculum and bring our educational philosophy to life, we incorporate field trips, maintain an open-door policy for family engagement, and offer unique cultural activities and special guest visits. These enriching experiences underscore our commitment to providing a comprehensive, dynamic education that aligns with our mission and philosophy.

Educational Framework and Programs

At Kids University, we cherish the unique journey of every child through the realms of learning and discovery. As detailed in our updated Parent Handbook, this section aims to unravel the tapestry of our educational programs, curriculum insights, and the distinctive initiatives that set our approach apart.

Educational Programs: A Spectrum of Learning Opportunities

From the tender age of infancy through to the exploratory school-age years, Kids University offers a continuum of program offerings designed to meet and nurture the developmental milestones and educational needs across all stages.

• Infancy Program: Tailored for our youngest learners, this program focuses on creating a secure and stimulating environment where infants can explore and engage, laying the foundational stones for lifelong learning.
• Toddler Program: As toddlers take their first steps into a larger world, our program introduces structured activities that foster physical, cognitive, and social development.
• Preschool Program: Preparing children for the academic journey ahead, our preschool curriculum is rich with activities aimed at developing literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills in a collaborative environment.
• School-Age Program: For the inquisitive minds ready to explore beyond the classroom, we provide after-school programs that support homework completion, encourage curiosity through project-based learning, and promote physical activity.

Curriculum Overview: Cultivating Development

At the heart of our educational ethos is a curriculum meticulously crafted to support the holistic development of children, integrating key aspects such as innovation, responsiveness, collaboration, respect, and ethical practice. Anchored in the philosophy of Kids University, our curriculum is designed not only to impart knowledge but also to nurture the unique talents and aspirations of every child.

• Innovation and Creativity: Through hands-on projects and exploration, children are encouraged to think outside the box and cultivate innovative solutions to problems.
• Responsiveness to Individual Needs: Recognizing the diversity in learning styles and paces, our educators tailor learning experiences to meet the needs of each child, ensuring no one is left behind.
• Collaboration and Respect: Our group activities and classroom dynamics emphasize the value of teamwork and respect for others, fostering a sense of community and mutual understanding.
• Ethical Practice: Instilling values and ethics from an early age, we encourage children to understand the importance of integrity, honesty, and responsibility in their actions.

Special Initiatives and Personalized Learning Experiences

Kids University is committed to enriching the educational journey of our students through special programs and extracurricular activities designed to uncover and hone their unique interests and abilities.

• STEM Exploration: Our STEM initiative invites children to delve into science, technology, engineering, and math through engaging projects and experiments that spark curiosity and critical thinking.
• Arts and Culture: Through art, music, and cultural studies, children are exposed to the diverse tapestry of human expression, encouraging appreciation and creative expression.
• Environmental Awareness Programs: Cultivating stewardship for the planet, our programs include nature walks, recycling projects, and lessons on sustainability.
• Personalized Learning Plans: Recognizing the individuality of each child, educators at Kids University collaborate with families to develop personalized learning plans that cater to the specific interests, strengths, and developmental needs of their child, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching educational experience.

Student-to-Teacher Ratios

Our classrooms maintain low student-to-teacher ratios to ensure individualized attention, fostering an environment conducive to learning and growth.

• Infants under 18 months, not walking — 1:4-6 (FL/GA)
• One-year-old children who are walking — 1:6-8 FL/GA)
• Two-year-old children: 1:8-10 (FL/GA)
• Three-year-old children: 1:15 ratio (SAME)
• Four-year-old children: 1:18 ratio (SAME)
• Five-year-old children: 1:20 ratio (SAME)
• Six years and older: 1:25 ratio (SAME)

At Kids University, we believe in the power of education to transform lives. Through our comprehensive programs and curricula, we are dedicated to providing a nurturing, inspiring, and inclusive environment where every child is empowered to explore, learn, and grow into the leaders of tomorrow.

Daily Operations

Health, Safety, and Nutrition: Our Top Priorities

Ensuring the health, safety, and nutritional well-being of our students is our foremost concern at Kids University. Our comprehensive protocols and policies are designed to foster a safe, nurturing environment where children can thrive and grow.

• Health and Safety Protocols: We implement regular health checks and maintain a meticulous sick child policy to promptly address any signs of illness. Our facilities are fully equipped for emergency medical care, with all staff trained in first aid and CPR. To safeguard our community, we conduct daily cleaning and regular safety drills, preparing both students and staff to act swiftly and effectively in case of an emergency.

• Nutrition Policies: At Kids University, we recognize the critical role that nutrition plays in child development. We provide balanced, nutritious meals and snacks that comply with or exceed state nutritional guidelines. Accommodations for dietary restrictions and allergies are detailed during enrollment to ensure every child’s health and well-being.

• Sick Child Policy: If your child has any of the following conditions or symptoms, you will be contacted to pick up the child. The child will be removed or isolated from the other students and kept as comfortable as possible. If a communicable disease has been identified by your child’s doctor, please notify the Director so that other parents can be alerted to watch for symptoms in their child. Parents will be notified by a written notice. For a child to return to school, the child must be fever and/or symptom-free for a full 24 hours. For certain conditions, a written statement may be required from your child’s doctor before readmission.
  1. A fever of 101 degrees or above with additional symptoms
  2. A fever of 102 degrees or above with or without additional symptoms
  3. Vomiting with or without additional symptoms (fever, rash, diarrhea, etc.)
  4. Loose or uncontrollable bowel movements (diarrhea) within one hour with or without additional symptoms.
  5. Conjunctivitis/Pink Eye where the white of the eye appears red and/or bloodshot accompanied by white, yellow, or green discharge
  6. Nasal discharge that is constant, uncontrolled, thick, and green in color
  7. Mouth sores accompanied by drooling

• Administration of Medication: All medications must be signed in at the front desk using our medication form. Administration of medication will be limited to no more than two weeks, unless written authorization from the physician is provided. No medication may be placed in the child’s tote bag. Only medication specifically labeled as a prescription with a doctor’s name, child’s name, date, prescription number, time of medication to be given, and dosage procedures outlined will be administered. “Over the Counter” medication can only be administered with written authorization from the child’s physician. Medication will not be administered without a signed medicine authorization for each day given. All medication must be in the original containers.

• Minor Injuries: For emergency purposes, you should complete a notarized authorization for emergency medical treatment. Naturally, we hope no such situation ever occurs. However, we want each child to receive the fullest attention possible in the case of an emergency. A form is included in your parent package with the enrollment forms. Children playing hard with other children are bound to get hurt at some time or another. Most of these times, these injuries are minor. For these non-serious accidents (bumps and scratches) or incidents like biting, you will be notified and asked to sign a form that you were notified. Should your child become ill or suffer any accident during the time that he or she is in the care of Kids University of Marietta, he/she will be isolated with a caregiver. The school will contact the parent/guardian immediately to come and pick up the child.

• Allergies: Please inform the staff immediately of any allergies that your child may have. A list will be posted in each classroom. Staff will ensure that children are not served these foods and will discuss possible alternatives with parents.

• Handling Emergency Medical Care: The emergency 911 will be utilized as a source of transportation if your child needs to be transported. They will be taken to the closest hospital and medical center immediately unless otherwise specified by the parent/guardian. (Parents will assume responsibility for payment).

• Inclement Weather: To service our parents and families here at Kids University, it is our intent to remain open. If inclement weather occurs, please call the center to ensure that we are open.

• Snow and Ice: In the event of snow and ice, we will re-open as soon as weather permits.

• Emergency/Severe Weather/Fire: In case of severe weather (e.g., tornado), all children and staff are taken to the main constructive hallway, where there are no windows, with emergency backup lighting. We provide bottled water and flashlights for safety and protection in the building (such as power failures that affect climate control or structural damage). In the event of severe weather or evacuation of the building due to fire, gas leak, or physical plant problems, the protection of the children is our major concern. Emergency plans are posted in the reception area and in the classroom. Parents will be notified immediately of any closings at Kids University. Safety guidelines are promoted at the center. Periodic fire and storm drills are held to familiarize the children with appropriate emergency procedures. In the event of physical plant damage (loss of heating, cooling, water, electricity, structural damage, etc.), parents will be notified, and the children will be taken to the local hospital. Arrangements with the local hospital to use their facility have been secured in the event of a disaster or emergency.

• Emergency Evacuation: Evacuation drills are held regularly at Kids University. Should an emergency occur that would require evacuation of the Center, you will be notified as soon as possible. In the event of an emergency evacuation, children will be taken to the local hospital. If it becomes necessary to leave the Center, the Director and staff will ensure that a ‘head count’ of the children is taken for comparison with the sign-in sheet. The Director and/or staff will check bathrooms, closets, and all areas of the center to ensure that all the children have exited the building. Parents/guardians will be asked to pick up the children if the emergency is expected to last a significant length of time. If you are at the school at the time of a drill or an emergency, you are requested to follow our procedures and evacuate the building immediately along with the children. For loss of utilities, the center will wash hands with bottled water and use windows for lighting, etc.

• Child Abuse & Neglect: As professionals in contact with young children and their families, we are mandated by law to report any suspected abuse, neglect, exploitation, or deprivation of a child to the Georgia Department of Children and Family Services.

Daily Operations and Routines: Structuring Success

Our structured daily routines are carefully designed to support the learning, exploration, and overall growth of our students.

We are committed to accommodating the needs of our families while ensuring compliance with DCF guidelines and maintaining optimal staffing ratios. Specific attendance policies, including our approach to late arrivals and extended care hours, are designed to support the diverse schedules of our families while ensuring the well-being and safety of our students.

Hours of Operation:

Kids University, Florida: Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm

Kids University, Georgia: Monday – Friday, 6:30am – 6:30pm

We will ask about your preferred hours of attendance enrollment to ensure we can properly allocate staff and comply with regulations.

Kids University of Marietta allots 10 hours of care per day at our standard tuition rates. Anything beyond the 10 hours, up to a maximum of 12 hours a day, will incur an additional weekly fee added to the standard tuition rates.

Picking up your child early or dropping them off later does not allot for longer hours on other days outside the agreed upon schedule. We must adhere to state rules and regulations at Kids University.

Standard Holidays Observed:

• New Year’s Eve (close at noon)
• New Year’s Day
• Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Rodeo Day (Florida only)
• Memorial Day
• Juneteenth
• 4th of July
• Labor Day
• Thanksgiving Day and the day after
• Christmas Eve
• Christmas Day
• Day after Christmas

At the end of the summer, Kids University gives all teachers at both locations a 4-day weekend (Friday & Monday) the last weekend of summer before the kids go back to school, to boost employee morale and recognize their hard work.

• Arrival Procedures: Our doors open early, welcoming children with a streamlined check-in process that ensures a smooth and reassuring transition from home to school. Our welcoming staff are always present to greet each child and set a positive tone for the day.
  • Children must always be accompanied by a parent or guardian when arriving at the school. Under no circumstances should children enter or leave the building alone, nor should they be left unattended. Maintaining proper hygiene and appearance (clean and in fresh clothes daily) is essential for your child, as it reflects both your family and our school.
  • Please sign your child in every time you bring them into the building. This is mandatory. The sign-in sheet or the digital sign-in form is located at the front reception area.
  • We ask that all children arrive by 9 am, as classes will be in session. Punctuality is important to minimize classroom disruptions and, more importantly, to ensure your children don’t miss any instruction.
• Class Schedules: A balanced mix of structured educational activities, free play, and rest periods defines our day. Morning sessions are dedicated to focused learning, tailored to the developmental stages of our students, and complemented by outdoor play. Post-lunch, children engage in enrichment activities, including arts, music, and physical education, fostering a well-rounded educational experience.

• Departure Procedures: The day ends with a structured dismissal process, ensuring a safe and orderly reunion of children with their families. Our staff oversees the pickup, ensuring a smooth and stress-free end to the school day.
• Parents must walk into the building, sign their child out at the end of the day, and pick them up from their classroom. Parents are expected to inform teachers when they are picking up their child. Only individuals listed on the child’s identification and emergency contact form will be authorized to pick up a child from the school. Anyone other than the enrolling parent and those authorized to pick up will be asked to present picture identification.

  Important: Parents must notify the Director in writing if someone else will be picking up their child.

• Late Pick-up Policy: Recognizing the variability of schedules, we maintain clear policies for late pick-ups to ensure the safety and well-being of our children, minimizing any potential anxiety.
  • There is a $15 late fee for the first minute and an additional $1 per minute thereafter if the child(ren) are not picked up by the allotted time discussed at enrollment. These fees will be billed on the next invoice. If additional care is needed beyond the 10 hours allotted as stated in this Parent Handbook, please consult with the Director or Owner for additional pricing. All verbal agreements are null and void and must be in writing.
  • Our enrollment agreement requires an acknowledgment of our tuition and pick-up agreement, as well as an explicit acknowledgment and agreement to read and abide by all policies laid forth in this Parent Handbook for Kids University. Additionally, after the third late pick-up, there will be an extra charge of $20 per child.
  • We request that all parents be courteous to our team and arrive on time. In the event that no one arrives to pick up a child and parents cannot be reached, your emergency contacts will be called to pick up the child. If a child is left for an unreasonable length of time and we are unable to locate any authorized adult to care for the child, we must contact the appropriate regulatory agency, including the Department of Family and Children Services. Please ensure we have emergency contacts who are truly available in an emergency.
• Transportation Services: For those utilizing our transportation services, safety is paramount. Our vehicles meet the highest maintenance standards, and our drivers are thoroughly vetted and trained, ensuring a safe and reliable service for our school-age children.

• Field Trips: We provide planned educational field trips and supervised activities. All children wear uniforms and name tags. Prior to the field trip, a signed permission slip will be required, or your child(ren) cannot attend.

• Child Supply Policy: Parents are expected to bring the following items for your child and their classroom.
  

   

  • Infants/Toddlers: (An additional classroom list of items needed will be furnished at enrollment)
    • Diapers/Pull-ups
    • Wipes
    • Bottles/Sippy cups
    • Formula/Breast Milk
    • Diaper ointment/cream
  • Pre-Kindergarten/After-schoolers: (An additional classroom list of items needed will be furnished at enrollment)
    • Change of clothes (3 sets: pants, shirts, and socks)
    • Cot sheet and blanket (toddlers only)
    • Change of clothes (2 sets: pants, shirts, underwear, and socks)
• Infant Safe Sleeping Practices: Infants under 12 months will always be placed initially on their backs to sleep, unless there is a signed sleep position medical waiver on file. There should never be items in the crib. Sleeping infants are checked individually at least once every 15 minutes. Children who are rollers will have a sign on their cribs to let everyone know that they are capable of rolling over.

• Diapering Policy: It is the parent’s responsibility to provide diapers, wipes, and diaper cream for your child. It is also the parent’s responsibility to check periodically to see if or when your child needs more diapers, wipes, and cream (not the providers). Each child has his or her own clearly labeled diaper bin, either in the infant/younger toddler room or older toddler/preschooler room, depending on the age of the child. Diapers are checked frequently (preferably every 45 minutes) and changed every two hours or as needed. The diaper changing tables are cleaned and disinfected between each diaper change, and hand washing of childcare provider and child is performed after and between each diaper change.

• Toilet Training/Procedures: We ask that parents dress toddlers who are potty training in easy-to-remove clothing and bring pull-ups instead of diapers. Teachers will send children more frequently to the potty and record the progress of the child’s toilet training in our Parent engagement app, Procare. Children are changed every two hours or as needed.

• Infant Feeding Procedure: Parents are required to fill out an infant feeding plan with instructions on updating the plan, provisions of formula bottles when identified with the child’s name, current date, handling of leftover formula, provisions of baby food, provisions of diapers, and use of pacifiers. We ask that forms be updated every two months.

• Food Service & Nutrition: Kids University follows the guidelines of the USDA food program and children are served an approved breakfast, lunch, dinner, and afternoon snack (in the Marietta location only at the moment; Florida coming soon). Meals and snacks will vary daily and are served family style to encourage self-help skills and communication skills. Teachers eat their meals with the children to provide a positive role model for good eating habits. If a child requires a modified diet for medical reasons, a written statement from a medical authority shall be on file. If a child requires a modified diet for religious reasons, a parent authorization form will be filed. Additionally, if your child has any allergies, please make us aware on your enrollment form so we can ensure they are not served such foods and will be accommodated with an alternative (only if they have an allergen).

  Update: Parents will no longer need to bring in bottles for toddlers at 18 months and toddlers will be provided food and will feed themselves or be fed.

• Birthdays/Celebrations: The school will be happy to celebrate your child’s birthday. Please make the necessary arrangements with your child’s teacher or the office for this special day. All food must be in its original packaging. We suggest you bring your child’s favorite healthy food. Please do not bring food to the school at any other time unless previously discussed with the Director.

• Parent Attire: Kids University is a professional building. Parents are asked to dress appropriately when they bring their children to school and when they pick them up at the end of the day. Parents are asked NOT TO wear pajamas, offensive clothing, ensure undergarments are not showing, and not come in smelling of any drug substance or intoxicated.

• Smoke-Free Zone: Kids University of Marietta is a smoke-free environment to ensure the health and safety of children and staff. Staff and families are not permitted to smoke any products on the premises.

• Communication: We partner with parents and welcome questions, comments, or conferences with the director and your child’s teacher on an appointment basis. Continuous and open communication will always be an important part of how we operate at Kids University. Parents should feel free to discuss their child’s progress or any home situation that might affect the child’s behavior with the Director. If a parent desires to communicate with the Director or a faculty member, the communication should be in person (with a prior appointment), by phone, or in writing. No oral messages brought by the child will be accepted.

• Withdraw Policy: Parents must submit an Intent to Withdraw via email a minimum of 10 business days prior to the child’s withdrawal date. This will allow time to adjust enrollment and assist in preparing the child for the transition. Two weeks’ tuition will be charged for any withdrawals short of the ten-day notification, regardless of whether the child(ren) attend or not.

• Uniform Policy Update, Fall 2024: Starting Fall 2024, Kids University will implement an updated uniform policy for students aged 3 years and up. This change reflects our commitment to fostering a sense of belonging and pride among our students while maintaining a focus on comfort and practicality for educational activities. Detailed information on the updated policy will be provided to all families well in advance of the implementation date.

Ensuring Every Day Counts

At Kids University, we understand that the care and education of your child are of the utmost importance. Each day is an opportunity for development, learning, and joy. Through our stringent health and safety measures, nutritional planning, and daily routines, we create an environment that not only supports but enhances the growth of every child entrusted to our care. Welcome to a typical day at Kids University, where learning and safety go hand in hand.

Family & Community Engagement

At Kids University, we believe that the education of a child flourishes with active family involvement and robust community partnerships. We see our families as invaluable partners in the educational journey, enriching our learning environment with their diverse backgrounds and experiences.

• Parental Involvement: We encourage parents to engage in various school activities, from volunteering in the classroom to participating in event planning committees. Such involvement offers a unique window into your child’s learning environment, fostering deeper connections and mutual understanding.

Fostering a Vibrant Community Network

• Community Engagement: Kids University prides itself on building strong relationships with local businesses, organizations, and individuals. By partnering on projects, events, and initiatives, we not only enrich our curriculum but also instill a sense of social responsibility and community spirit in our students.

Guiding Principles for Behavior and Discipline

We approach discipline and behavior management with respect, understanding, and a commitment to promoting positive behavioral outcomes for all students.

• Discipline and Behavior Management: We do not tolerate disruptive and harmful behavior towards oneself or others. We believe that praise and encouragement are much more effective in promoting appropriate behavior. Teachers will initially use redirection and positive reinforcement techniques to correct behavior. Disruptive and inappropriate behaviors that directly impact the child, other children, staff members, or the group will be documented and addressed.If a child becomes a detriment to themselves or others, they will be removed from the environment to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone involved. If positive reinforcement and potential removal from the current environment do not resolve the issue, parents will be called to pick up their child. Should the situation persist and become problematic, we will collaborate with parents to correct the behavior. If there is no progress and/or parent collaboration, we will implement our strong behavior policy.

  We have zero tolerance for behaviors such as hitting, biting, spitting, throwing things at others, destroying school property, and fighting with others. These are a few examples, but not an exhaustive list. In some instances, the child may need to be removed from the classroom immediately.

  4-Strike Policy for Recurrent Behavior:

  1. First Strike: Conference with parents.
  2. Second Strike: Removal from the school for 1 day.
  3. Third Strike: Removal from the school for 3 days.
  4. Fourth Strike: Removal from the school for 1 week.

  If the child reaches the fourth strike, we will ask parents to find a more suitable educational environment for their child.

• Open Door Policy: Transparency and open communication are cornerstone values at Kids University. Our open door policy encourages parents to share insights, concerns, and suggestions with our staff, strengthening the bond between home and school.

• Nondiscrimination Stance: In line with our inclusive philosophy, we maintain a strict nondiscrimination policy, ensuring equal access to educational opportunities, resources, and support for all children, irrespective of their background.

• Health and Safety Policies: Beyond the protocols outlined in the earlier section, we remain vigilant in creating a safe, healthy learning environment for our students. This includes ongoing risk assessments, adherence to hygiene best practices, and ensuring our staff are trained in health and safety procedures relevant to their roles.

Our Commitment to You

At Kids University, we view our relationship with families and the community not as a formality but as a fundamental component of our educational philosophy. By working together, we create a nurturing, stimulating environment where every child is encouraged to explore, learn, and grow. Our policies on discipline, behavior management, and community engagement are designed to reflect this collaborative spirit, ensuring Kids University remains a place where every student can thrive, supported by a network of care, respect, and mutual commitment.

Enrollment & Tuition

Admission Requirements and Process

Welcome to Kids University! Our admission process is designed to ensure a smooth transition for your child into our nurturing and stimulating educational environment. Following the Department of Children & Family guidelines, alongside our tailored policies, we aim to make this process as informative and welcoming as possible.

• Eligibility and Application: Enrollment at Kids University is open to children from 6 weeks to 13 years old. To begin, submit a completed application form available on our website or at our campus. This initial step starts the journey toward enriching your child’s educational experience with us.

• Essential Documentation: Along with your application, the following documents are essential for completing the enrollment process:
  • A completed physical examination record, certifying your child is in good health.
  • Your child’s birth certificate.
  • Up-to-date immunization records.
  • Any pertinent medical or learning records that will aid in tailoring our educational approach to your child’s needs.
  • Emergency contact information, ensuring we can always connect with you or designated guardians.
  • A signed parental agreement form, outlining our mutual commitments to your child’s education and well-being.

  All parents are responsible for supplying and updating necessary information to the center for their child(ren).

• Registration Fee: An annual registration fee is required to process your application and secure your child’s place at Kids University. This fee covers administrative costs and is due at the time of registration, alongside the first week’s tuition.

• Getting to Know You: To better understand your child’s unique needs and to introduce our educational ethos, we schedule a parent-child interview. This meeting allows us to align our approaches and ensure that Kids University is the right fit for your family.

• Observation Day: We invite your child to spend a day with us, experiencing first-hand the learning environment, engaging with peers, and interacting with our educators. This day is pivotal in ensuring your child feels comfortable and excited about joining our community.

• Admission Decision: Our admissions team carefully reviews each application, considering your child’s needs and our capacity to provide an enriching educational experience. Our goal is to foster a harmonious blend of educational objectives and well-being for every child at Kids University.

Tuition and Financial Information

Investing in your child’s education is a decision we deeply respect. Transparency and flexibility underpin our approach to tuition and financial policies, ensuring you have all the information needed to plan for your child’s future.

• Tuition Breakdown: We offer a detailed tuition fee schedule for our various programs and age groups, reflecting the comprehensive nature of our educational offerings. Outside of our registration and annual improvement fees, weekly tuition fees encompass all educational materials, classroom activities, and nutritious meals provided throughout the day. (Fees available in office).

• Annual Registration & Improvement Fee: An annual registration & improvement fee is required to process your application and secure your child’s place at Kids University. The registration fee covers administrative costs and is due at enrollment, alongside your first week’s tuition. Our annual improvement fee, due in April, is used for enhancements throughout the school, such as new playground equipment, indoor equipment (computers, tablets, toys), and other classroom necessities.

• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Believing that every child deserves access to quality education, we guide families through exploring financial aid options. In Georgia, resources such as Childcare and Parent Services (CAPS), The Center for Family Resources, Must Ministries, Live Safe Resources, and Hope for Atlanta can provide assistance. In Florida, we are developing partnerships to expand available options. Currently, available options for those in financial need include School Readiness (income-based platform available to those who qualify—inquire through the local Early Learning Coalition) and Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK)—available to all children of the 4-year-old age to attend Pre-K. Please contact our administration for more detailed information on programs and how to apply.

• Payment Schedules: To maintain a consistent educational environment for all children, tuition is due on the Friday before the upcoming week of service. Our tuition payment program, Procare, is designed for ease of use and accuracy. You may use a credit card or have your bank account debited. We offer flexible payment options to accommodate your needs. Late payments incur a $35 fee, and we accept cash, money order, check, or credit card payments managed directly by our director or owner for security and convenience. Please ensure we always have the most up-to-date billing information. If anything changes, please let us know immediately. If a payment is declined, it is the parents’ responsibility to provide the updated information before the next billing cycle. If you pay electronically, you will receive your receipt electronically and provide signed authorization for electronic payment. Otherwise, you will receive a paper receipt at the time of payment.

• Subsidy Payment: If you are receiving a subsidy (YWCA/GA CAPS/SR/VPK), you are responsible for your co-pay in full. Kids University adheres to state and federal guidelines and must collect the co-pay per our contract with these agencies. Anything other than monetary compensation will not be accepted in lieu of a co-pay. In the event (YWCA/GA CAPS/SR/VPK) does not fulfill the tuition obligation, you, the parent, will be responsible for the additional tuition balance for that week. If this is not paid on time, there will be a late fee charged for tuition and any payment returned by the bank. Returned tuition checks will not be re-deposited. Parents will be responsible for re-issuing a second check and paying the NSF fee. If at any future time the bank returns a parent’s check, all future tuition payments must be made by cash, money order, or credit card. If your balance is not paid in full by the first of the new month, your child will not be able to attend until paid. Tuition rates are generally established on a yearly basis. Rate increases will apply with a minimum of 30 days’ written notice. Since we agree to hold a place for your child in our school, we cannot discount your weekly rate even if you do not bring your child in. Tuition is calculated on an annual basis and divided into weekly rates; therefore, we cannot discount weekly rates even if the center is closed that day. No discount from tuition will be made for holidays or other days on which the facility does not operate.

• Additional Fees: An annual facility improvement fee is implemented to continually enhance our educational environment, directly benefiting your child’s learning experience. This fee, due each year, supports upgrades and the addition of new resources across our program.

• Cancellations and Refunds: Understanding that plans can change, we have established a clear policy regarding cancellations and refunds. This policy is designed to be fair and transparent, providing families with the flexibility to make informed decisions about their child’s education.

At Kids University, we’re committed to providing an accessible, high-quality educational journey. Our dedicated team is always here to discuss any aspect of enrollment and tuition, ensuring you have the support needed to make the best decisions for your child’s future.