Our Policies

To support a smooth and successful learning day, Explorer Learning Academy has established the following arrival and departure procedures:

Arrival

• Children must arrive no later than 9:00 AM unless prior approval has been granted by the Director. Late arrivals may disrupt the classroom routine and are discouraged without advance notice.

• Upon arrival, parents/guardians must sign their child in using the Playground app. This serves as an official attendance record and is required by licensing regulations.

• After signing in, parents must remain with their child until a staff member receives the child and performs a health and wellness check. Children may not be left unattended at any time.

• Children should arrive dressed and ready for the day:

  • Clothing must be clean, weather-appropriate, and comfortable for active play.

  • Preschool-aged children are expected to wear their Explorer Learning Academy uniforms each day, unless otherwise noted (e.g., designated pajama day).

  • Pajamas are not permitted during regular program hours unless it is a scheduled spirit day.

  • Please feel free to send extra clothing or layers in your child’s backpack to support temperature changes or toileting needs.

Departure

• • At pick-up, parents/guardians must sign their child out using the Playground app.

  • Children will only be released to:

    • A parent or legal guardian,

    • An individual listed on the Emergency Contact and Authorized Pick-Up Form,

    • Or someone with written authorization provided by the parent/guardian in advance.

  • Any unfamiliar adult must present a valid photo ID at the time of pick-up.

  • In cases involving custody arrangements or restricted access, Explorer Learning Academy must have:

    • A written statement from the custodial parent, and

    • A certified copy of the court order on file.
      Without these documents, both parents will be presumed to have equal access to the child.

We believe that the discipline of a child is achieved through patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. We also try and teach the children in our care manners, kindness, and respect for others. We do this by modeling. We understand that our actions and reactions speak much louder than our words. The children have explained the rules of the center frequency, so they know what's expected of them. We acknowledge children when they are being good citizens of the classroom. We use the following techniques when addressing challenging behaviors:

1.       Positive Reinforcement: The child will be praised when he or she is demonstrating acceptable behavior.

2.      Prevention: We observe the classroom environment often to help guide children in positive dialog and interactions.

3.       Redirection: The child is redirected to another activity and allowed to try again at another time.

4. Thinking Break: The child is directed toward the Problem-Solving Solutions and Sensory area. This area contains our problem-solving picture card, emotions posters, and sensory materials, such as weighted blankets, pop books, stuffed animals, weighted animals, light-up toys, tactile bins, body socks, audiobooks, and rockers.   

There are rare situations where the above doesn’t quite work as it should due to other factors. In this event, we complete the following:

• Developmental assessments

•  ABC observations

• Referral for further evaluations

• Parent-teacher meetings to develop a plan for behavior change

• Parent volunteering

• Partnership with Inclusive Partners

*Developmental assessments are completed by teachers and parents upon enrollment, mid-year, and at the end of the year. A referral will be made to Northwest Regional if a developmental delay is identified for further evaluation and intervention if needed. We will work with the family in developing a plan to help their child be as successful in our program and the future.

*We also partner with Inclusive Partners to help us make our environment successful for all the students in our class.

We believe in and value family partnership, especially during times when a child may be having difficulties in our program. In these rare times, the following are the responsibilities and expectations of parents. 

Active partnership in behavior management can include:

• Completing developmental assessments (ASQ, MCHAT, ABAS, etc)

• Attend parent-teacher conferences 

• Completing the assessment process through early intervention, if referred for further evaluation. 

If parents refuse to be active partners in creating a safe and thriving environment for their child, peers, and staff, we will work with the family to create a transition plan to a different program.

We have cameras located all over our program classrooms, playground, and exterior. Cameras record video and audio of all people on our property. These cameras are not for public viewing, including parents of enrolled students, and will not be released to parents. If you are only comfortable with enrolling your children in a program where parents do not have camera access, we understand that Explorer Learning Academy is not the program for your family.

Classroom Student to Teacher Ratios

Infant and Toddler - 2 months to 36 months

• 4 students to 1 teacher

Preschoolers - 36 months to eligible for Kindergarten

• 9 students to 1 teacher

Schooler - K-5 school students

• 9 students to 1 teacher

When the group is mixed we will follow the guidelines required by the Early Learning Division.

At no given time will we exceed our licensed number at our school at a time.

Children with special needs will be accepted into our program under the guidelines of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). All families will be treated with dignity and with respect for their individual needs and/or differences. We will be responsible for ensuring that confidentiality about special needs is maintained for all families and staff in the program. Children with special needs will be allowed to participate in the program to the fullest extent possible. To accomplish this, we may consult with Northwest Regionals, Inclusive Partners, and other agencies/organizations as needed. The inclusion of program staff in IFSP and IEP case conferences is desired to ensure the childcare program provides the most supportive environment possible.

All staff will receive general training on the benefits of inclusion of children with special needs and training on specific accommodations that any child in their classrooms may need. The knowledge of parents and health care professionals involved in the care of the child with special needs will be consulted to determine accommodations and or therapy requirements. The individual written plan of care for children with special care needs will be followed in all emergencies. Parents are responsible for making sure the plan shall be updated annually, at a minimum.

Parents’ responsibilities

• Complete developmental assessments provided by our program

• Follow through with referrals for further assessment by early intervention and Inclusive partners

• Attend all meetings necessary to create an IFSP or goals

• Include teachers and programs in the IFSP process

• Active involvement in creating goodness of fit for children and program

• Actively work on the goals developed as a team.

• Open and frequent communication between all members involved in the IFSP process.

If your child will not be attending school due to illness or other, please let us know as soon as possible. No discounts will be given for your child's absences due to illness or vacations. If your child will not be attending school for whatever reason, you are still required to uphold the contracted tuition.

As a token of appreciation, 5 consecutive vacation days are free after 12 consecutive months of care with no late tuition payments. The five days must be approved at least 45 days in advance by Zakkiyya. Please email your request to admin@elapdx.com  Care will not be available during this time. Days must be consecutive. Split days are not available.

Explorer Learning Academy is committed to maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of every child and family in our care. All child and family records are stored securely and handled in accordance with state regulations and best practices.

Access to Children’s Records

• Access to each child’s file is limited to authorized staff members, the child’s legal guardians, and regulatory agencies as required by law.

• Parents/guardians may request to review their child’s records at any time by submitting a written request to the Director.

Privacy Policies

• Personal information (including addresses, phone numbers, medical records, and developmental assessments) will never be shared with unauthorized individuals or third parties without written consent, except in cases where disclosure is required by law (e.g., suspected abuse or neglect).

• Photos and media featuring children will only be used for program-related purposes (e.g., internal communication, newsletters, or marketing) with written parental permission.

Procedures for Record Updates

• Parents are responsible for ensuring that emergency contact information, health records, authorized pick-up lists, and allergy or medication forms remain current.

• Families should notify the Director immediately of any changes, including custody arrangements, phone numbers, addresses, or medical information.

• A record update form will be provided when changes occur or annually during re-enrollment.

Our Family Handbook, available on our website, serves as the official guide to all Explorer Learning Academy policies and procedures. We ask that you honor and respect the integrity of our program—and the families and staff within it—by reviewing and following the expectations outlined in this handbook.

We understand the information provided may be extensive, and we encourage families to keep the handbook easily accessible for reference throughout the year. It is a valuable resource designed to support clear communication and shared understanding between our team and your family.

Please note: Explorer Learning Academy reserves the right to update or amend any part of the Family Handbook, Parent-Provider Contract, or Enrollment Application at any time. Should any revisions occur, families will receive an updated copy reflecting those changes.

ERDC covers:

·         The time you are at work, school, training, or job hunting

·         Your mealtime while working, and

·         Travel time between child care and work.

Upon enrolling, it is your responsibility to inform the provider of your work schedule and commuting time needed. If your work schedule changes weekly from what was given to the caseworker, we require a copy of the schedule.

In the unlikely event, that evacuation is necessary, all the children will be walked to the Fowler Middle School Parking lot. All children will be accounted for and parents will be contacted for pickup.

In the event of inclement weather, Explorer Learning Academy will follow PPS school district’s lead for school delays and cancellations.

•     If the school is delayed, transportation will not be available.

• In the event that Explorer Learning Academy, is in session and the weather becomes dangerous, parents are encouraged to arrive early to pick up their children from the program.

It is the parent’s responsibility to ensure, safe and timely travel to and from the center.

A child with any of the following illnesses must be completely free of any symptoms before returning to the center. If the child is taking antibiotics for an illness, the child may return to the center after the initial 24 hours of beginning antibiotics as long as he or she doesn’t have a fever (under l00 F under the arm), no longer contagious, and is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule.

Any child with a fever of 100 degrees or above, orally (in the mouth), or 99.0 degrees and above when taken auxiliary (under the arm), may not attend school. State law requires that we notify parents of children who have been exposed to certain contagious diseases. Please notify us if your child becomes infected, so a notification can be posted for all families.

A child or sibling of a child enrolled in our program will not be admitted or will be sent home if any of the following symptoms occur, regardless of the cause:

•       Diagnosed as having or being a carrier of a child care-restrictable disease, as defined by in DHS administrative rules, OAR 333-019-0010 (pink eye, chickenpox, mumps, measles, rosella, hepatitis A, impetigo, lice, ringworm, scabies, strep throat, scarlet fever, tuberculosis, shingles, and any other contagious disease or rash.)

•       Diarrhea (more than one abnormally loose, runny, watery, or bloody stools)

•       Vomiting

•       Fever over 100 degrees F (thermometer axillary readings of 99.0)

•       Severe cough

•       Unusual yellow color to skin or eyes

•       Skin or eye lesions or rashes that are severe, weeping, or pus-filled

•       Stiff neck and headaches with one or more of the symptoms listed above

•       Difficult breathing or abnormal wheezing

•       Complaints of server pain

•       Head lice (nits or bugs) minimal 2-day exclusion

•       Uncoverable open sores and rashes (ringworm)

•       Green or yellow mucus secretions from the nose

•       Hand Foot and Mouth diagnosis is a minimal 5-day exclusion

•       Flu diagnosis is a minimal 5-day exclusion

Exclusions steps if occurred 

1. Child will be isolated

2.    Parent notified for pick up within 60 minutes (late fee began after 60 minutes of notification)

3.    Alternative authorized pickup persons will be notified if unable to reach a parent

4.    Incident report completed

5.    Alternative authorized person will be notified of a pick if the child is not picked up within 30 minutes.

6.    Call child protective services if the child is not picked up within 75 minutes after the parent/authorized person notification of pickup and incident report completion.

Parents are required to notify the center whenever a child or family member has been exposed to a communicable/infectious disease so that all Education Explorers families can be alerted.

Explorer Learning Academy staff will document every injury to children. Parents will be notified of accidents or incidents immediately or on the same day. The Accident/Incident Report completed by staff must be signed by a parent and returned within 48 hours.

In the event of a serious injury or other medical emergency, parents will be notified immediately. The child will be transported to the nearest hospital by emergency services, if necessary.

Explorer Learning Academy staff will also ask that siblings stay home or be picked up that share a household when ill.

At Explorer Learning Academy, strong partnerships with families are the foundation of nurturing, high-quality care. Open, consistent communication allows us to better understand your child’s individual needs and provide meaningful support throughout their early learning journey.

We encourage families to share any needs, preferences, or concerns related to your child’s care and development. Communication is essential to building trust, ensuring continuity between home and school, and supporting your child’s growth.

Daily Communication & the Playground App

Families of infants and toddlers will receive daily reports, including sleep, meals, diapering, and learning experiences, via the Playground app. We ask all families to download the Playground app and enable notifications to stay connected.

Please note: Any messages, emails, or phone calls received after closing hours will be returned on the next business day.

Photos and Media Consent

Children may be included in classroom photos and program-related media for internal and promotional use. If you do not want your child’s photo used, you must submit a written opt-out request.

Parent Volunteers

Parents who wish to volunteer in the classroom or attend field trips must first be registered in the Oregon DHS Central Background Registry.

Ways We Communicate With Families

• Newsletters (monthly or as needed)

• Emails

• Phone calls

• Messages via Playground

• Our Facebook business page

• Text messages

Parent Responsibilities

We ask our families to actively participate in their child’s learning community and help us create a respectful, collaborative environment. Parent responsibilities include:

• Using respectful language and nonverbal communication with staff

• Engaging in meaningful drop-off and pickup conversations with teachers

• Reading and responding to communication through Playground, email, or text

• Uploading pictures/videos of at-home family learning or interaction activities

• Attending parent-teacher conferences

• Completing developmental assessments and family input forms

• Participating in monthly parent workshops and program events

• Volunteering (when possible) in accordance with safety and background check procedures

• Reading and following all ELA program policies, state licensing rules, and USDA food guidelines

Together, we can ensure your child thrives in a safe, joyful, and culturally responsive learning environment. Thank you for being a vital part of the Explorer Learning Academy family.

Explorer Learning Academy provides Kirkland formula to all non-breastfed infants under 12 months of age. All formulas have to comply with the CACFP rules and regulations. During the parent meeting, discuss your formula of choice with the director. If families would like to use an alternate formula or breast milk, a minimum of four (4) premade bottles per day should be brought to school at drop off. All infants will be held for all bottle feedings unless the child can hold the bottle independently.

For the health and safety of your child and all of the children in our program, please do not bring your child school sick. In which case, we in turn may become sick making it difficult to care for the children at the high standards that we have set for ourselves. If you are not sure if your child should be brought to school, please call and check with us. If a child becomes ill during child care hours the parents will be contacted for pick up. Parents need to pick up within one hour of being notified. If parents are not available, the emergency contact person(s) will be notified.

*Once the child is removed from child care due to illness, they must be s symptom-free for 24 hours prior to returning to the center. The child must also be symptom-free of any contagious disease unless accompanied by a doctor's note stating the illness in question is not contagious, and the child is otherwise feeling well enough to participate in our daily schedule.

Immunizations are required by law for children in attendance at public and private schools, preschools, childcare facilities, and Head Start programs in Oregon. Nearly every place that provides care for a child outside the home requires immunizations or an exemption to stay enrolled. It is the parent’s responsibility to provide the center with up-to-date immunization or exclusion forms.

We require all children receiving immunizations to remain at home for 48 hours. We suggest that parents schedule their child’s immunizations on a Friday afternoon. The 48 hours can go by over the weekend. You also have the opportunity to closely observe your child for any possible adverse effects the immunizations may cause.

Explorer Learning Academy is a culturally responsive program rooted in the belief that every child and family deserves access to high-quality early learning, regardless of background or ability.

Commitment to Equity and Inclusion

We welcome and serve children and families of all:

• Races, ethnicities, and national origins

• Languages and cultures

• Family structures and socioeconomic statuses

• Religions, faith practices, and belief systems

• Gender identities and expressions

• Abilities and developmental needs

Discrimination, harassment, or exclusion in any form will not be tolerated in our program.

Accommodating Children with Special Needs

• We are committed to providing appropriate support and reasonable accommodations for children with diagnosed or suspected disabilities, developmental delays, or medical needs.

• Families are encouraged to share any Individualized Family Service Plans (IFSPs) or Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) during enrollment or as soon as they become available.

• The Director will work with families, specialists, and support agencies to create individualized plans that allow children to safely and fully participate in our learning environment.

If your child is picked up after the contracted pick-up time there will be a late charge assessed of $2 per minute. We will call authorized persons on your list if we cannot reach one parent within 5 minutes of the scheduled pickup time. Please be courteous and arrive on time. After hours are time with our family.  

All late fees must be paid before your child returns to the school. In the event, that the child is not picked up within 60 minutes after contracted hours, and the parents are unreachable, Child Protective Services will be notified.

At Explorer Learning Academy, we do not give medications to the children. If your child needs to be medicated in order to get through the day and be able to comfortably participate in our classroom activities, then it is quite possible he or she may be too sick to attend the center. The parent or guardian is welcomed to administer medication at the center, as long as they stay to monitor the child for no less than 30 minutes. 

Emergency information is kept on file at the center. In case of illness or injury, this information will be used to notify you or the person designated by you, of your child's status. If your child is injured while at the center, first aid will be administered. If treatment by a doctor is necessary, we will make every effort to contact you or the doctor you have chosen to treat your child. In all cases, an injury report is completed, and a copy is given to the parents as well as licensing. Authorization for emergency treatment must be signed at the time of enrollment to ensure that in the event of an emergency, we can make sure your child receives the necessary emergency treatment he or she needs. It is very important that all emergency contact information is kept up to date and correct. Please inform us immediately of any changes to keep your information current. Parents are responsible for all costs involved in emergency medical treatment, including emergency transportation, if required.

Note: In case of a serious accident or sudden illness requiring immediate medical attention, the following procedures will be followed.

•     A phone call to 911 is made.

•     Child's parents (or emergency contacts) are called.

•     Child is separated from the other children and cared for.

•     Parent, provider, or ambulance takes the child and health records to the doctor or hospital. *If parents cannot be contacted, the child will allow emergency care by trained emergency personal, including transport to the hospital if needed. Parents or authorized pickup person must arrive prior to emergency care if, the parent wishes to transport the child to medical attention themselves.

At Explorer Learning Academy, we honor the natural rhythms of each child while creating a calm, restful environment that supports healthy development and learning.

• Infants nap according to their individual needs. They sleep in cribs or on a crib mattress on the floor until their first birthday. After turning one, they are gradually transitioned to nap mats.

• Toddlers have a scheduled nap time from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM.

• Preschool-aged children (36 months and older) nap between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.

While nap times are structured, all children are supported in resting whenever they show signs of tiredness. No child will ever be forced to sleep or kept awake.

During nap time, children are encouraged to rest quietly on their cots or mats. Those who do not fall asleep may engage in quiet, calming activities to maintain a peaceful environment for others.

To minimize disruptions during this important time, we kindly ask families to avoid unscheduled pick-ups during nap hours whenever possible. If a pick-up must occur during nap time, please notify your child’s teacher in advance so we can gently transition your child to the front with minimal disturbance to the classroom.

At Explorer Learning Academy, we believe that nutrition is a foundational part of early childhood development, supporting children’s physical health, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. Our meals are designed to promote healthy eating habits, build independence, and encourage children to make positive food choices.

Meal and Snack Schedule

Children are provided with nutritious, well-balanced meals and snacks daily, in accordance with USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) guidelines:

• Breakfast: 8:30 AM – 9:00 AM

• Lunch: 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM

• Afternoon Snack: 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM

During meals and snacks, staff sit with children and engage in positive, encouraging conversations. We model appropriate table manners and help children learn about portion sizes, manners, and the importance of healthy foods.

Child-sized flatware, plates, cups, and utensils are provided and accessible to children. Drinking water is available at all times throughout the day.

Policies on Food Brought from Home

To ensure the safety and well-being of all children—especially those with food allergies—and to comply with CACFP guidelines:

• Outside food is not permitted, except in cases of medical necessity or approved cultural dietary needs.

• For children who require special formula, milk alternatives, or modified diets, families must submit a Medical Statement to Request Special Meals and/or Accommodations signed by a licensed healthcare provider.

• Celebration treats (e.g., for birthdays) must be store-bought, nut-free, and pre-approved by the Director in advance.

We appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe, inclusive, and healthy meal environment.

Special Dietary Accommodations

We are committed to supporting children with documented dietary restrictions, allergies, or cultural/religious food preferences. To ensure proper planning:

• Please notify the Director of any special dietary needs at the time of enrollment or as soon as they arise.

• Written documentation from a physician may be required for substitutions outside CACFP standards.

• Staff will follow all necessary protocols to prevent cross-contamination and keep children safe during meals and snacks.

Nutrition Education

Throughout the year, children participate in age-appropriate activities to learn about healthy eating and how food supports their growing bodies. These experiences include:

• Reading books about food and wellness during circle time

• Group learning activities that explore food groups, colors, and nutrition

• Meaningful mealtime conversations with staff

• Real-life modeling of healthy habits and food choices

At Explorer Learning Academy, our goal is to develop strong, healthy children who understand the value of nourishing their bodies and minds.

We allow parents to visit their children in our facilities any time they wish. We do ask parents who plan to visit their children frequently to follow the classroom routine, to avoid disturbing classroom schedules and activities. All parents will be escorted by staff while on the premises.

We often have observations and inspections to ensure we are providing the best care. Some examples of classroom evaluations include State Fire Marshall, QRS, CACFP Nutrition, and other parents observing their right to our open-door policy.

No animals are allowed on the premises during childcare hours without the written permission of the director.

Smoking, usage of alcohol, illegal drugs, guns, large knives, marijuana, and explosives are NOT allowed on premises at any time. Violation of this will result in immediate termination of the contract and a report to Child Protective Services.

At Explorer Learning Academy, the health, safety, and comfort of all children and staff are our top priorities. While we recognize that animals can offer enriching experiences, no animals of any kind are permitted in the program without prior written approval from the Director, Zakkiyya Ibrahim.

Animal Restrictions

• No pets, classroom animals, or visiting animals are allowed on the premises without the express written consent of the Director.

• This policy applies to all animals, including small classroom pets, therapy animals, and animals brought for educational purposes.

Health and Safety Measures (if permission is granted)

In rare cases where an animal is approved:

• A written plan must be submitted outlining safety, health, and hygiene protocols.

• Animals must be up to date on all vaccinations and in good health.

• Children must be supervised during all interactions and wash hands immediately afterward.

• Animals will not be allowed in kitchen or food preparation areas.

Parental Notification

• Parents will be notified in writing before any approved animal is brought on-site.

• Parents may opt their child out of animal interactions by submitting a written request to the Director.

Coming soon.

At Explorer Learning Academy, the safety and well-being of every child is our highest priority. All staff members are trained to recognize the signs of abuse and neglect and are legally required to take immediate action when concerns arise.

Mandated Reporting Responsibilities

Under Oregon law (ORS 419B.005–419B.050), all staff members of licensed child care programs are mandated reporters. This means:

• Staff are legally required to report any suspected child abuse or neglect—physical, emotional, sexual, or neglectful—in or outside of the program.

• Mandated reporters may not investigate, evaluate, or verify the claim. Their responsibility is to report suspicions to the proper authorities without delay.

• Failure to report suspected abuse is a violation of Oregon law and program policy and may result in legal consequences and disciplinary action.

Staff will make a report when:

• A child discloses abuse

• A staff member observes physical indicators of abuse or neglect

• A staff member hears or witnesses concerning behavior or information from others

Reporting Procedures

1. Immediate Reporting

   • When abuse or neglect is suspected, the staff member will immediately contact the Oregon Child Abuse Hotline:

     • 📞 1-855-503-SAFE (7233) — available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

2. Documentation

   • The reporting staff member will complete an internal incident report noting observations and actions taken.

   • The report will be submitted confidentially to the Director for recordkeeping and support.

3. Confidentiality

   • All reports will remain confidential. Staff may not disclose the identity of the child, family, or reporter to anyone except the authorities.

   • Parents will not be notified of the report by ELA staff. Only the Child Welfare Office will determine when and how to involve families.

4. Protection from Retaliation

   • Any staff member who makes a report in good faith is protected by law from retaliation or civil/criminal liability.

If a report involves a staff member, that individual will be immediately removed from direct contact with children while an investigation is conducted in accordance with Oregon licensing regulations and employment law.

Parents are responsible for supplying the following items:

• pacifier (if needed)

• weather appropriate clothing

• extra set of clothes

• shoes that lace-up or Velcro with heal enclosed (no flip-flops please)  

• 4 premade bottles daily (if not using the formula provided by the school)

Explorer Learning Academy provides

• Up & Up brand diapers and wipes,

• Black Girl Sunscreen Kids brand, sunscreen,

• Butt Paste, or A&D brand diaper cream

• Winter snowsuits

• Full body rain suits

• Rainboots

  If you would like us to use a different product on your children, it is the parent's responsibility to ensure those things are available for teachers to use.

If desired, a comfort object for rest-time, and anything else your child may need. There is a good possibility your child will get dirty throughout the day because of food, paint, markers, dirt, bubbles, etc., so please dress children accordingly for play. We are not responsible for replacing stained or soiled clothing. We suggest writing your child's name on the tags of their clothing (especially socks and underwear) in order to prevent any clothing mix-ups.

It is the parent’s responsibility to periodically check your child's locker/ cubby to make sure they still have all of their necessary items needed at child care. Furthermore, as the weather changes throughout the year, so do your child's items needed at child care. We greatly appreciate your adherence to this subject, as it helps us and the children's day run more smoothly to have all of their necessary belongings with them at childcare. This way we can care for your child in the best possible way.

Please only bring items in the logo bag provided by the school.

Teachers will use personal cell phones and/or tablets to handle any business-related task (messaging parents, using the Procare Connect app to record information for parents, business-related emails, etc.). Usage for personal reasons is not permitted.

We strive to create a learning environment that nurtures children’s social development and fosters a rich imagination. In doing so, it is important to recognize the impact that technology and media play on children’s development. As educators, we recognize that media does have value and can also impact children positively when programs are chosen carefully and used with guidance and intention. For these reasons, technology will only be used in the following ways for preschoolers 2 years and older.

• Enhance lesson during circle time (Tablets)

• 30-minute (before nap) rewards for positive behaviors (Tablets)

• Monthly movie/pajama party (Rated G Movie on Television)

Screen time includes:

• Age-appropriate,

• Nonviolent,

• Culturally sensitive materials

• No advertisements or brand placements

Independent tablet usage will not exceed 30 minutes at a time or 60 minutes in total a day including teacher-directed tablet activities. All tablets have preselected, age-appropriate apps focusing on language, literacy, and math skills that require a child’s active involvement, as well as, age-appropriate books. Children not using tablets will have access to books, puzzles, or table activities. Tablet usage is not permitted during meals and other non-viewing times.

At Explorer Learning Academy, we are committed to maintaining a safe, respectful, and professional environment for all children, families, and staff. While we strive to foster strong, long-term relationships with our families, there may be instances where discontinuing care becomes necessary.

Mutual Right to Terminate

Both parents/guardians and the provider reserve the right to terminate the contract at any time without prior notice. No advance notice is required from either party should they choose to end the care agreement.

Grounds for Immediate Termination

Immediate discontinuation of services may occur due to any of the following:

• Gross misconduct by a parent, child, or provider

• Nonpayment or repeated late payment of tuition and fees

• Excessive late pickups beyond the contracted time

• Ongoing disrespect or disregard for program policies

• Destruction of property or verbal/physical aggression by a parent or child

• Repeated disruption to the safe and nurturing environment of the program

Refund and Legal Disclaimer

If services are terminated for any reason—voluntary or involuntary—tuition and fees are non-refundable. This includes unused days or prepaid tuition.

In cases of nonpayment, Explorer Learning Academy reserves the right to pursue legal action for the recovery of owed funds. The parent or guardian will be held responsible for all associated legal fees, court costs, and collection expenses incurred.

This policy is in place to uphold the integrity, safety, and professional standards of our program. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.

Tuition covers up to 10 contracted hours of care per day (unless other terms have been agreed upon with the director), all meals including Kirkland brand formula. As part of our menu, we serve fresh fruits, vegetables, milk, and whole-grain bread. Tuition also covers all curriculum materials and supplies, diapers, and wipes.

*Tuition increases every September.  

To hold your child's space, payment must be made whether your child attends or not. Payment is based on contract, not attendance

Services will not be provided without payment. There is a $20 late fee per day for tuition not paid per child. After 5 days of nonpayment, the contract will be immediately terminated. For re-enrollment, tuition, late fees, and registration fees are due.

At Explorer Learning Academy, we welcome family engagement and maintain an open-door policy for parents and guardians. At the same time, we uphold strict safety, privacy, and licensing standards to ensure a secure, high-quality environment for all children.

Parent/Guardian Visits

Parents and legal guardians are welcome to visit at any time while their child is present in the program. We believe that consistent family presence strengthens the child’s learning experience and reinforces our home-to-school connection.

• All parents/guardians must sign into the Visitor Log at the entrance upon arrival.

• Visits must be conducted in a respectful, non-disruptive manner and in coordination with the classroom teacher or program director.

• We ask parents to avoid visits during scheduled nap times to maintain a calm and restful environment.

• To support deeper involvement, we encourage all parents to complete the Oregon Child Care Background Registry application:
  👉 Apply Here

Program and Professional Visitors

Licensed child care programs like ELA are routinely visited by a variety of professionals to ensure we remain in full compliance with local and state regulations. These visitors may include:

• Licensing specialists

• Health and safety consultants

• Quality improvement coaches

• Food program monitors

• Community-based partners

All such visitors are required to sign into the Visitor Log and present proper identification. They are always accompanied by a staff member while on the premises.

Tours and Prospective Family Visits

• All tours must be scheduled in advance with the Director or Site Supervisor.

• To avoid disrupting the children's learning and rest times, tours are only offered before or after scheduled nap times.

• Tour participants must sign into the Visitor Log and will be escorted throughout the visit.

General Visitor Conduct

• All visitors must follow the program’s safety and confidentiality guidelines.

• No photos or videos may be taken without express written consent from the Director.

• Any visitor exhibiting disrespectful, disruptive, or unsafe behavior will be asked to leave the premises immediately.