June Warren founded Sage School in 1967. A Montessori class was conducted for the first time at Sage School in 1971 with an initial enrollment of six students. Beverly Eckhardt purchased the school in 1975 and the following year, Ms. Eckhardt offered only Montessori programs at Sage School, changing the name to Sage Montessori School. Connie Hayden, the first Montessori directress at Sage, purchased the school in 1979. Over the next 20 years, Sage Schools grew to 4 campuses serving infants through elementary school. Sage Cottage opened in 1996. In June 2001, the schools were sold. Paul & Sue Terp and Bridget Duffy purchased Sage Cottage and Sage Academy, moving Sage Cottage to its current location at 142 Meadow Lane. In July 2006, Cheri Host and Theresa Cull purchased Sage Cottage. January 2009, Sage Cottage was incorporated as a non-profit organization.

Program Information

There are three classrooms: Infant-Toddler Class houses ages 6 weeks to 24 months, Transition Class houses ages 2 and 3 years and the Early Childhood Class houses ages 3 to 5 years. The school operates Monday through Friday, 7:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Student-Teacher Ratios:

Infant-Toddler 3-1

Transition 6-1

Early Childhood 7-1

Sage Cottage publishes and distributes a school calendar each year – please see Appendix B. This calendar notes the dates of special events and school closure. Sage Cottage is CLOSED during the Holiday break, Spring break and noted holidays.

Administration

Sage Cottage School is a non-profit organization overseen by The Board of Directors and operated under the direction of Cheri Host & Susana Lopez. Susana or Cheri can be reached at 505-672-0534 or by E-mail at director@sagecottage.us.

Mission Statement/Goals and Objectives

Sage Cottage School, located in Los Alamos County, strives to provide a safe, loving, inviting environment for children ages 6 weeks to 5 years. Sage Cottage is a place where children are given the opportunity to learn, explore, grow, and develop social skills.

The specific goals for the children who attend the School are:

1. To develop a positive self-image.

2. To develop a love of learning and feel comfortable in school.

3. To learn respect of all life and the environment.

4. To develop and foster an abiding curiosity.

5. To develop skills of initiative and self-direction.

6. To foster inner discipline and a sense of order.

1. To develop socially acceptable behavior.

2. To acquire the basic skills necessary for a lifetime of learning.

Curriculum Statement

Sage Cottage School encourages the children to learn through playing and working with the material available to them in each classroom; emphasizing science-based activities. Materials are based on the current classroom theme. Children are encouraged and given opportunities on a daily basis to explore their environment and to work individually or in teams as they learn and play. The Montessori and play-based curriculum provides children with meaningful and enjoyable experiences to enhance their social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.

Philosophy

Sage Cottage School's philosophy is to guide children in the development of a positive self-image through a unique combination of Montessori, Play-oriented, Science-based, and Self-directed programs. This will help foster self-confidence, respect of life and environment, love of learning, and socially acceptable behavior. We strive to be an eco-friendly facility concerned for our planet and children’s future.

Affiliations and Memberships

· Recognized by State of New Mexico Department of Education

· Licensed by Children, Youth, and Families Dept. of the State of NM and Los Alamos County

· Member of the New Mexico Child Care Association

· Member of National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)

· Member of the American Montessori Society (AMS

· Member of the Los Alamos Chamber of Commerce

Admission Procedure

Enrollment is opened for the year beginning June 1 in March of each year. Students’ currently enrolled full time in the school are given a priority period of re-enrollment prior to the enrollment being opened to the general public. Parents interested in enrollment for their children may visit in a classroom with the teachers and/or the director. Sage Cottage is the program designed to meet the needs of children ages 6 weeks to five years. The Full day enrollment is 8:30 to 3:30 with before and after childcare offered from 7:30 to 8:30 and 3:30 to 5:30.

Sage Cottage does not discriminate. We are inclusive of all races, religions, nationalities, and peoples of all kinds.

We require 30 days notice for disenrollment.

Financial Information

Fees

Registration Fee: $50 annual registration fee.

Equipment & Supply Fee: $200 annually for each child enrolled at Sage Cottage.

Late Fees: A late fee of $10 will be added onto the next month’s bill when a child arrives or leaves 5 minutes beyond the contracted time unless pre-approved by the Director. There will be an additional $10 fee for 5 minute period (or portion of) that the child remains at school after the contracted time.

Accounting Fee: One schedule change per year will be done for free. Additional schedule changes will cost a fee of $25.

Vacation Credit: Credit will be given once a year in the equivalent of one week’s tuition. A 30-day notice must be given in order for the credit to be applied.

Billing Procedures

Monthly tuition is divided into twelve (12) equal payments, based on the number of school days in session. Remember that some months have fewer school days and some more. The same tuition payment is due each month. A statement showing a breakdown of your total tuition (tuition, drop-in daycare if used, and tax) is placed in your child’s mailbox around the 15^th of each month. Please keep the invoice as your tax record and record the invoice number on the check. Payment is expected by the 1^st of the month unless other arrangements have been previously made. A $30 late fee will be attached to the following month's statement if the payment is past due (after the 4^th of each month). If payment is not received by the 7^th, Sage Cottage reserves the right to disenroll the child.

An agreement form on policies (see end of this handbook), services and tuition will be sent home and must be signed and returned within the first month of school (this is a State requirement).

Withdrawals from the school must be given 30 days advance written notice. Tuition will then be charged for 30 days from the day of notice. For example, if you give notice on May 5^th that you are withdrawing your child from school, then you must pay tuition through June 5^th (30 days). Any unused balance of tuition paid will be refunded only if the school dismisses the child.

The Child Care Licensing Bureau of New Mexico determines the staff to child ratio. We carry full enrollment meeting this ratio and cannot accommodate make-up days for time missed due to holidays, vacation, illness, snow days, or other circumstances. Tuition is calculated for the number of school days in a year and prorated over twelve months; days during the week missed due to conferences, holidays, and snow days are distributed fairly evenly when considered over the course of a school year.

Academic Procedures

Birthdays

We enjoy celebrating your child's birthday with a very simple party. We encourage you to attend your child's birthday celebration. Watermelon or Jello make nice birthday treats and party napkins are always a favorite. Please check with your child’s teacher regarding food allergies prior to making snack plans.

If you are planning a home party for your child, please place the invitations in the children’s cubbies so as not to upset those children who are not invited.

Communication

A good communication flow with your child's teacher is highly desirable and should be the principal vehicle for questions that may arise. You are encouraged to talk regularly with the teachers regarding your child’s education and development. In addition, Parent/Teacher Conferences are scheduled at least 2 times each year. A monthly newsletter is published informing of current school and classroom activities. The School asks you to bring suggestions for improvements to the school Director(s). If you need to register a complaint or if you have any grievances regarding the staff, the school, or anything else please bring them to the attention of the Director(s). We will take immediate action to correct the issue.

Family Involvement

Teaming with parents and guardians in the education of the child is beneficial for all. We encourage families to spend time at Sage Cottage with their child in the classrooms and the playgrounds. This lets your child know that you feel comfortable spending time at school and gives you a chance to better know what takes place during your child’s day. We particularly like to have family members share information regarding their professions with the classes. This broadens the children’s understanding of what “those big people” do all day.

Toilet Learning

With all learning, consistency is the key to success. Once your child demonstrates an interest in toilet learning, the teachers make a great effort to help facilitate this learning process. Because this process requires as much adult dedication as child participation, we feel it is extremely important to share with parents what we will be doing during your child’s school day to help toilet learning be fun and exciting as well as a successful experience.

Timing is essential. If toilet learning begins too soon or too late, the process will take longer. In order for toilet learning to be successful, a child must be physically and cognitively ready. Physically, meaning their nervous and excretory systems have developed to a necessary level. Cognitively, they must understand what it means to use the toilet versus wearing diapers (What is it used for, as well as why, and how do we use the toilet). Verbal communication as well as adult modeling at home can facilitate this understanding. Fortunately, the onset of physical and psychological readiness typically begin at the same time. When the parents and the school are in agreement that toilet learning is to begin, we ask that a contract be signed by the parents committing to work jointly with the school to achieve the toilet independence for the sake of the child. If after 7-10 days, a child shows a lack of interest or an increase in anxiety or accidents he / she may return to the use of diapers until they demonstrate this sensitive period again. If the child is content and the number of accidents remains relatively the same, it is recommended that toilet learning continue. Positively encouraging your child at home is essential.

Toys

Children should not bring toys or trinkets to the classroom except for special Teacher designated activities. Please assure your child that his/her toys are for home use and that at school he/she has special "work" to do. If the child feels the item is a necessary part of their day, they will be encouraged to place the toy in their cubby until the end of their day when they can retrieve it and take it home. Children are encouraged on their snack day to bring books or other educational material that might be of interest to all children. Please LABEL items brought if at all possible.

Visitors

Parents, guardians, and families are welcome in our school anytime to visit, observe, or help in the classroom. Please talk with your classroom teacher regarding what you might do to help with the class.

Policies

Accidents/Incidents

All accidents, injuries and incidents must be documented using the Accident or Incident Report Form. If a child is injured or involved in an accident requiring treatment beyond standard first aid, the staff member in charge should notify the Director, who will then notify the child’s parents or other emergency contact if the parents cannot be reached. The incident must be documented using the Accident Report Form and the form placed in the child’s file. If the accident is of a severe nature, CYFD will be contacted to report the incident.

Accidents involving teachers require that a First Report of Accident be completed and for the teacher to seek medical attention (if necessary) from the preferred provider according to the school’s Workmen’s Compensation Policy. If the accident causes severe injury, call 911 or have them seek medical attention immediately, and then complete the First Report of Accident.

Incidents are situations such as child abuse, missing child, or behavioral issues (biting, hitting, etc.). When a child hurts a classmate, this is considered a behavioral issue and an incident report needs to be completed for that child. An accident report is then completed for the child who was hurt. The child who was the victim should be kept anonymous on the incident report and the child who was the instigator should remain anonymous on the accident report. This protects both children and parents from awkward encounters that may arise due to the behaviors of their children.

Classroom Observations

Sage Cottage has an open door policy and encourages parents to become involved and to spend time in their child’s classroom. Spending time in the classroom helps bind the home-school relationship, it shows your child you support school time, and better acquaints parents with child’s school activites and friends.

Child Protection

It is the number one responsibility of all staff to monitor the well being and protection of all children at Sage Cottage. The Sage Cottage policy is that classrooms are staffed with two personnel where possible as a two person control system to maximize the protection and safety of the children.

Abuse/Neglect

All suspected child abuse must be documented on an incident report, kept on file, and reported to the CYFD.

Missing child

In the unlikely event that a child is discovered missing from school, the school will go into immediate lock-down. Designated teachers/aids/parents will be stationed at each entrance/exit area. A designated person(s) will search the area around the school. The Director will contact the parent, guardian, or emergency contact person. The local police and CYFD will be notified immediately.

Classroom Snacks

Infant Classroom and Toddler Classroom

Families are to provide all foods the child will eat each day. A basket in the Toddler classroom is provided to put the food in. Infant classroom places their food in the refrigerator where their child’s name is written. Parents need to provide a training/sipper cup with their child’s name written on it in permanent ink.

Transition Classroom and Early Childhood Classroom

Families take turns providing simple, nutritious snacks for their child's class. A snack schedule is posted in the class. Parents shall sign up for snack twice a month per child. The State of NM has become quite strict with our snacks, so it is extremely important that you follow the posted schedule. This schedule has been designed to meet federal and state requirements by providing foods from two of the four food groups each day and a vitamin A rich food at least three times per week. Parents or Teachers should note on the form if the snack brought deviates from the posted menu. The school provides cups, napkins, and juice. Please bring two servings per student in the class. As a guideline, 2 oz. of food is needed for each serving.

Snack Suggestions

· Fruits (cut to child's finger size)

· Fruit Cups

· Tortillas w/cheese, cream cheese or jelly

· Raisins (plain or yogurt covered)

· Different baked breads or bagels (banana, raisin, carrot)

· Crackers such as Triscuit, or whole grain

· Nutritious cookies and muffins (oatmeal, carob, fig)

· Yogurt

· Cheese cubes, string cheese

· Cream Cheese w/bagels

· Apples

· Applesauce

· Granola

· Sandwiches: cut into fourths - peanut butter, cheese, etc., on various kinds of bread

Clothing

Although Sage Cottage does not have a strict dress code for children, we expect children to be dressed appropriately. Play clothes are encouraged; simple, washable, sturdy, and easy-to-manage. Messy activities will be taking place, so do not dress them in special clothes. Pants and jeans are preferred and non-slip, closed toe shoes are advised.

Plan on outdoor play whatever the weather may be. It is the parent’s responsibility to make sure their children are dressed in appropriate winter clothing--snow pants and jackets, hats, mittens and snow boots. Children without the proper attire may be restricted from playground activities.

Please provide a change of clothing for children in the Transition and Early Childhood classrooms and 2 changes for the children in Infant/Toddler classroom. We do keep a few articles of clothing at school in case of emergency, and request that they be returned laundered after use. Please label all clothing.

Complaints/Grievances

Complaints and grievances by parents or staff should be reported to the Directors right away. In the event the complaint or grievance requires a policy or staff change, the Director will address the Board to come up with the appropriate action. Addendum’s to the Parent Handbook and/or the Staff Manual will be made and issued accordingly.

Confidentiality Policy

Family and staff information will not be discussed with other parents or staff. This information is confidential! Never discuss a child's progress in front of the child when talking to staff or parents. It is contrary to the interest of the school and the children we serve to give out information regarding children, parents, or staff. Such information should be held in strict confidence and should not be discussed with anyone outside of the school. Inside the school, such information should be discussed only when it will benefit the care we offer the children and the parent. Refer any inquiries on children, their performance, and parent information to the Director.

Conferences & Communication with Parents

Conferences are scheduled at least two times each year, once during the Fall and again during the Spring. Conferences are used for reporting and communicating with parents and are an important aspect of the complete education process. Interim conferences can be arranged through the Teacher or Director to discuss issues that require immediate attention.

Disaster Preparedness

If an accident or attack that creates contaminated air occurs in the nearby area the following steps will be followed:

Remain calm and keep students calm.
Bring students, faculty and staff indoors.
Close the school.
If visitors/parents are in the building, provide for their safety by asking them to stay.
A designated person will answer school calls.
A designated person will call parents.
The voice mail will be changed to indicate that the school is closed and students and staff are remaining in the building until authority advises that is it safe to leave.
Close all windows and doors and shut down the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. This will create a neutral pressure in the building, meaning the contaminated air would not be drawn into the building.
Select interior rooms with the fewest windows or vents.
Bring everyone into the room(s). Shut and lock the door(s).
Write down the names of everyone in the room, and call the police department to notify them of where you are and who is in the room with you.
Listen for an official announcement from the Los Alamos Police Department for decisions that will come for the County Emergency Operations Center. Stay where you are until you are told all is safe or you are told to evacuate.

Parents may be concerned that, during a shelter-in-place activity, they couldn't pick up their children and might be separated from them for long periods of time. If parents show up at the school, they will be encouraged to shelter-in-place at the school. It is not Sage Cottage's intention to keep the children from their parents, but to keep the children as safe as possible during a disastrous situation. We are merely endeavoring to keep your children safe for the parents until it is safe for the parents to come and pick them up. In the event we need to evacuate the building we will be walking to either St. Joseph’s Catholic Church or Chamisa Elementary School on Meadow Lane.

Discipline

We work to promote self-discipline and encourage the children to assume personal responsibility for their actions. We teach respect for property and others and encourage fair play. When rules are not followed, or a child is hurting or interfering with other children, logical consequences are imposed. The consequences are made clear and understandable to the child; and are explained to the child before and at the time of the action.

The following methods are used when disciplining a child:

The actions of the child are criticized, not the personality.
Careful physical restraint (bear hug) is permitted when a child is out of control.
The child is provided opportunity to express and define his/her feelings.

The child may be removed from participating in the activity until the problem is solved or resolved.
The child may be kept at the side of an adult until he/she calms down and appears cooperative.
The child may be asked to sit somewhere within the classroom, isolated from activity, until he/she is ready to resolve the problem.
When the whole classroom is being disrupted, the child may be removed and asked to sit with the Director until he/she is ready to return.

All discipline shall be carried out with respect for the dignity and self-esteem of those involved. The Teacher is responsible for informing parents about unacceptable behavior on the day it occurs.

The objective at Sage Cottage for all behavior issues is to understand the child and teach the child proper strategies to cope with situations he/she will face throughout life. Should the situation become ongoing (each child/situation is unique, so defining a time frame is not possible) the Teacher and Director may request a meeting with the parent(s) to discuss the behavior problems. The goal is to identify inconsistencies between home and school, and develop a joint plan on how to change the behavior. It is an opportunity for exchanging ideas on how to best help the child.

If the child’s behavior still remains unacceptable, Sage Cottage reserves the right to withdraw the child from the program and terminate the contract with the parents or guardians.

The following disciplinary practices are prohibited at Sage Cottage:

Physical punishment
Withdrawal of food, rest, or bathroom opportunities
Abusive or profane language
Any form of public or private humiliation including threats of physical punishment that is hazardous to the physical or mental health of the child.

Emergencies

In the event of an accident or sudden onset of illness, the School will not hesitate to seek proper care for a child, staff, or parent. In the case of a child, the parent will be called immediately after first aid is given and 911 is called if required. If the parent cannot be reached, then calls will be made to the emergency numbers indicated on the child’s enrollment form. If these persons are not available, the child's doctor will be called and if necessary 911 will be called to transport the child for medical services.

For this reason we require you to sign the emergency release statement on the application, before the child enters school. The consent statement that you signed will accompany the child so that treatment can be given immediately in your absence.

All accidents requiring some kind of medical attention are documented and signed by parents, as well as staff on duty and placed in your child's file, as per State requirements. CYFD (Children, Youth and Families Department) will also be notified of all incidents revolving care of a child off property.

In the event of an emergency with a staff member, emergency contacts from the form in their file will be contacted. In the event of a parent who may have an emergency situation, we will ascertain who needs to be notified for them, and proceed with whatever first aid is required in the situation.

Emergency Kit and Supplies

The following is a list of items contained in the Sage Cottage Emergency Kit and supplies kept on hand in case of a shelter-in-place disaster:

Copies of all contact list - name, phone number and email as well as information or someone preferable out-of-state, or at least out of the immediate area. Phone numbers and emails for immediate supervisor.
Flashlights with extra batteries - Long life, emergency flashlights.
Battery-operated radio and extra batteries - AM/FM, Weather band/TV band
Manual can-opener
First Aid Kit - Add gloves and Kleenex
Notepad and pens/pencils
Scissors
Hand-Sanitizer and Cleansing Agent/Disinfectant
Whistle
Disposable Cups
Wet Wipes
Water
Non-Perishable food items like soft granola bars, cereal, cheese and crackers, cans of fruit, special infant items, etc. - should be nut-free in case of allergies.
Extra supplies of critical medication such as insulin, epi-pens, etc. if required for children and staff

Each child should have - a change of seasonally appropriate clothing, a blanket, extra formula (one-day supply as space allows) and extra diapers (one-day supply as space allows).

Evacuation

Building evacuation will be signaled by the Director or designee sounding the fire alarm. An emergency evacuation map is prominently displayed in all classrooms, showing routes to follow during a fire drill or actual fire. Fire drills will be conducted monthly. All children, staff and visitors are required to leave the building by the safest route and go to the assigned area. The lead teacher will take the attendance sheet and first aid kit, and leave with children and any volunteers or visitors. The aide, assistant teacher or director should check classrooms and bathrooms to ensure no children are remaining, close outside doors (but do not lock), and follow others out of the building. The lead teachers should ensure that all children are accounted for. Staff should keep children calm and quiet and await further instructions. When/if it is safe to return to the building the Director or alternate will inform the lead teachers to return.

Field Trips

Field trips will be announced in advance, and all children must have a signed permission form on file at the School before participating. We will typically ask for parent participation/help with field trips.

Health, Sickness, and Medication

State Law requires that all children be properly immunized before entering school. Staff members will only administer topical medications, ointments, and creams (sunscreen, diaper rash ointment, teething gel …) and only after having a signed medication form on-file. All medications must be in the original container.

The one medication exception will be an epi-pen for a highly allergic child. Staff will continue to be trained in allergy awareness and the use of an epi-pen. Should we have a child who potentially needs an epi-pen, it will be stored in a locked container in the child’s classroom.

Staff and children both get sick. Staff who become ill during school hours will be required to leave. When they are no longer in danger of passing the illness onto the children, they will be allowed to return to school.

Children who become sick at school must be separated from the other children until the parent(s) arrive to remove the child from the school. The staff monitors the children closely to determine whether a fever is teething or immunization related before calling the parents to pickup the child. Parents will be notified of any fever or behavior which indicates the child is not feeling well. The child will be sent home if the armpit temperature is 100.4^o F or greater, or if the child shows signs of illness. Children are not to be brought to school if any of the following symptoms are present within the previous 24 hours:

1. Fever (temperature over 100.4^o F)

2. Unexplained rash

3. Severe cough

4. Discharge of green mucous from the nose

5. Diarrhea

6. Vomiting

7. Sore throat

8. Swollen or crusted eyes

9. Acute body aches (i.e. headache, stomach ache)

10. Open sores on the body

Incident Notification

Staff will notify the Director (who will notify Children Youth and Families Department where appropriate) of any incident that has or could threaten the health and safety of children and staff members. An incident report will be filed in these circumstances. Parents or their emergency contacts as well as the CYFD will be contacted in all of these examples:

· A lost or missing child

· The death of a child

· Sexual or physical abuse of a child

· Accidents, illness, or injuries that require medical care beyond on-site first aid (pay particular attention to head bumps and concussions)

· Fire, flood or natural disaster

· Any of the illnesses on the current list of Notifiable Diseases and Communicable Diseases.

· Any legal action against a staff member related to the care and custody of children

Lunch

Please pack a well-balanced nutritional meal, excluding candy and other highly sugared food, and foods which could pose a choking hazard (e.g. popcorn, nuts, whole grapes, hard candy, cherries with pits, …) and excessive quantities of additives and preservatives. All food is to be ready for the child to eat; pre-cut, mixed, peeled, etc. (Please slice grapes, hotdogs, string cheese, and carrots lengthwise; peel oranges and eggs.) Please be sure to LABEL all containers and the lunch box.

Refrigeration is available as well as warming for the children’s lunch. We do not allow the children to touch, share or eat anything from their classmates lunches. In the event a lunch is forgotten, we will inform the parents so arrangements can be made. We will assist the children with eating and enjoy the opportunity to teach and model grace and courtesy.

Please keep portions small, as we encourage children to eat their protein, fruit, and/or vegetables, in that order. Judge portions by what remains in the lunch boxes after school (uneaten portions are put back in the lunch boxes).

Tuesdays at Sage Cottage are pizza days. Pizza may be purchased by the slice at a cost of $1.50 per slice. Sign-up is done in each classroom and the money must be in by 9:30 am Tuesday morning. The pizza is picked up and distributed to the children at lunchtime.

Napping

ChildCare Licensing requires all children under age 6 attending school for more than five (5) hours be allowed a nap or rest period. Each child will have a designated mat or day bed and clearly labeled linens so there is no duplicate use of the linens between washings.

Parent Participation

Each parent is a vital part of the school as a whole. We encourage parents and families to spend time at the school and participate in scheduled Family activities. We have an open-door policy, please feel free to drop in at any time. Volunteers are encouraged in areas of classroom support (assisting teachers, special program and field trip support), and buildings and grounds work parties. Parents are invited to assist the school in fund raising activities for the purchase of new school equipment, and school social and educational events. If you are willing to help in any way, please call the school office to volunteer.

Mail Folders

Sage Cottage uses parent mail folders to communicate with families. You will find our monthly newsletter, children’s progress reports, invoices, handouts, etc. Please check your mail folder on a daily basis.

Classroom Participation

Most all Parents have a talent, career or hobby that would be interesting to the children. We encourage you to make arrangements with the class Teacher to set up a time to share this information with the children. Parents are also encouraged to share anything they may have to aid in our different curriculum studies.

Information from home

In the event that a significant change occurs in your home, please inform the Director or Lead Teacher as soon as possible. All information will be regarded as confidential. We will accept your judgment as to the kinds of changes, which may affect your child's behavior, security, and general well being. Common causes of distress include: either or both parents being away from home for any reason for an extended time; new person living in the home; illness or hospitalization within the family; new sibling; accident or death in the family; new caretaker; new employment; moving; death of a pet; and, parent separation and divorce. In return, the Teacher/Director will keep you informed of any significant changes in the school environment, which may affect your child.

School Philosophy

Respect for the children includes a positive, optimistic attitude about children, a cooperative spirit, a nurturing of independence, recognition of unique individuality, trust in the child's work, finding the right activity, and listening to and observing in order to follow the child. One should avoid sarcasm, teasing, over-reacting to misbehavior, and inferred reward and punishment. When making presentations, the child's interest level should be considered so that the teacher stops before the child tires. Phrasing of instructions should be direct and to the point. When communicating with the child the adult should come down to the child's height.

Lessons will be given to children BEFORE they formally use the equipment. All materials may be used by the children for exploring concepts as long as they are learning a positive aspect and not damaging the equipment.

Respect and courtesy will be HIGHLY emphasized in the curriculum, through role playing activities and staff modeling.

A calm, quiet atmosphere will be maintained at all times by BOTH the teachers and children. The teacher’s voice should never be heard over the children.

Outside time will be included each day. The playground will be supervised at ALL TIMES with the proper ratio of adults to children. The staff must place themselves at the opposite areas of the playground and not engage in conversation with other staff members while on duty. The intent of the playground is to provide large muscle development, through constructive play. Staff should help initiate activities such as ball catching, hopping, jumping, etc.

No child may be left unattended in a room for any reason.

Birthdays are considered a special event for each child and are individually celebrated.

Snow Days - School Cancellation

Sage Cottage Montessori School follows the cancellation or delay decisions made by the Los Alamos Public Schools. (LAPS info. Line: 663-2223. Closure information is also broadcast on network TV and local radio stations.) We will open/close 30 minutes prior/subsequent to LAPS in the event of snow/weather-related delays. Therefore, if LAPS delays opening until 10:00 a.m., Sage Cottage will delay opening until 9:30 a.m. If LAPS closes at 4:00 p.m., Sage Cottage will close at 4:30 p.m.

Student Admissions and Discharge

Admission into the school is handled by the Directors. Sage Cottage accepts students on a first come first served basis and without regard to race, color, or religion, etc. The enrollment procedure is:

1. Telephone interview

2. Observation of a class by the parents

3. Enrollment application submitted

4. Tuition Deposit submitted

The Directors handle discharge of a child from the school. The procedure to be followed regarding child behavior is contained in the disciplinary section of this manual

Sage Cottage expects respect between the staff and families. Should a family member display inappropriate or abusive behavior towards any of the staff, Sage Cottage reserves the right to disenroll the student.

Sage Cottage tries to work with families experiencing financial difficulties. However, the school cannot sustain without paying its bills. Sage Cottage reserves the right to disenroll a student who is more than 30-days behind in tuition payment.

Student Attendance & Absences

Attendance records are required by law and it is the parents’ responsibility to sign their child in and out each day. If your child is going to be absent, kindly contact the school at 672-0534 prior to class time as to the cause. If you have verification of the fact that your child has a notifiable disease, please call the school immediately so a note may be posted to inform other parents. The licensing division has strict regulations regarding children attending school while ill. We reserve the right to send your child home should we make the judgment he/she is either contagious or too ill to function adequately in class.

Student Pick-up and Drop-Off

The school hours of operation are 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It is imperative that arrival and dismissal times be closely adhered to. The time before class is vital for teacher preparation to ensure a smooth and productive day, and our staffing is set based on contracted hours. Children will not be admitted before 7:30 a.m. We ask that children contracted to arrive at Sage by 8:30 a.m. please arrive no earlier than 8:30 a.m. It is equally important that the children do not arrive late. The first activity in each class is group time and it is very disruptive to the class and the child when he arrives late or misses the group altogether. Children who arrive late and are picked up late are often stressed and feel awkward and uncomfortable.

Children are to be taken to their class and signed-in by the parent or guardian, and when picked up, signed-out by the parent or guardian. If a child is not signed-in/out, the teachers must do it to keep an accurate records. Children must not be released to anyone who is not on the Child’s Pick-up authorization form. If a staff member is uncertain of an individual’s identity, she/he must ask that person for identification. If positive identification cannot be made, the child MUST NOT be allowed to go home with that individual. If a parent phones in authorization to the school, it is up to the discretion of the Director to release the child.

The parking lot at the school can be very active. We ask that when dropping your child off and picking your child up that you take the time to turn off your car. Please be courteous and drive slowly around the parking lot. It is small and can be congested, especially in the morning and evening.

Student Rules & Manners

1. The rules of the playground are:

a) The sandbox toys are used only in the sandbox

b) Digging with the sandbox toys in other areas is not allowed

c) There will be no rock, sand, or stick throwing

d) There will be no climbing or sitting on any fence

e) Tricycles and bikes are to be ridden on the cement slab. They are to be parked when not in use

f) The slides will be used for sliding -- not running up

g) There will be no standing, jumping or tipping over of the picnic tables

h) There will be no gun shooting or tackling allowed

i) Spitting or hitting is not allowed

j) No one is to destroy another student’s creative work

2. The rules and manners for lunch are:

a) Stay seated

b) No food sharing

c) No candy or gum

d) All uneaten food goes back in lunchbox

e) Eat with mouth closed

f) Don't talk with food in mouth

g) Appropriate conversation for meal time

h) Minimal (Appropriate) burping

3. The rules and manners of the classroom are:

a) Respect others (do unto others as you would have them do unto you)

b) Respect yourself (do your very best at everything you do)

c) Respect the classroom (use items for their intended purpose)

d) No running or yelling inside the school

The Sage Cottage Curriculum

Infant /Toddler Curriculum - 6 weeks to 24 months

The first few years of a child’s life are crucial to his or her personality and intellectual development. In his acclaimed book The First Few Years of Life, Dr. Burton L. White says that a child born with the best mental and physical capabilities may not attain even average levels of competence without exposure to appropriate experiences.

Infants and toddlers have a fundamental need for love and emotional nurturing within a healthy physical environment. The Montessori Teaching Method provides a basis for individualized learning activities, appropriate for even the earliest stages of a child’s development. The purpose of the Toddler Program at Sage Cottage is to encourage, assist, and protect the normal development of each child. Children flourish in the prepared environment that respects, supports, and responds to their basic needs for independence, exploration, and the building of trust and self-esteem.

During the early years of life, Dr. Maria Montessori felt that “the first thing the child’s education demands is the provision of an environment in which he or she can develop the powers given by nature,” quite literally the school environment and the curriculum. The structure of the curriculum is based on five developmental areas: Sensory and Perceptual, Physical and Motor, Self-Help Skills, Language, and Social and Emotional. Dr. Montessori emphasized the need for a rich environment, and noted the speed at which children can develop: “If our own adult ability be compared with the child’s, we should need sixty years of hard work to do what he or she does in three.” While providing a structured and thus familiar environment, the needs of the individual children are met. For example, for a 14-month-old child developing large muscles of the arms and chest, a light, safe object would be made available for the child to carry.

Sensory and Perception

The young child absorbs the world around him or her through the five senses. Our rich environment caters to the child’s senses.

Physical and Motor

Along with the mind, both fine and gross motor skills develop rapidly from three months to three years. Attention to these needs support balanced development. Physical activity in the young child is an important part of environmental involvement, and thus education.

Self-Help Skills

The focus is on helping the child enjoy independence. Each individual must depend on him or herself for education.

Language

The construction of vocabulary is part of every aspect of the classroom from snack time to manipulating a toy to group activities.

Social and Emotional

A well-rounded and happy child, whose balanced development and happiness have been supported by responsive individual attention, reacts positively with the environment, copes with frustration, and learns easily.

Transition Curriculum – 2 and 3 years

Between 24 and 36-42 months, children enter a “transition” stage. They are enjoying their developing mobility and are ready to manipulate and master their environment. Their “Absorbent Mind” soaks up environmental stimulation unconsciously and holds it ready for future abstraction and classification. They are driven by their “sensitive periods:”, brief periods of time where learning is effortless. The Transition Classroom is a stimulating environment designed specifically to meet the needs of this age child.

From the moment of birth, humans begin the long road toward independence. The first step is to breath independently and from there we gradually gain control of movement, develop a means of communication, and lean to care for ourselves. Independence and the ability to act are a vital need for this age child. Our environment provides countless opportunities to become “masters of self”. Assistance is offered only when needed, allowing them time to develop and perfect required muscular movements for meeting their needs.

Physical and Motor

The sensitive period for movement is in full swing and the transition classroom offers many opportunities for both gross and small movement development. There are stairs to climb, small trampolines to bounce on, and circle time to explore the different ways the body can move. The children now carry their work to specified areas providing opportunities for developing muscular coordination. The Montessori materials require small muscular movements that will strengthen the hand and develop eye-hand coordination.

Social and Emotional

An orderly environment is essential for this age child. The security of knowing that they will always find what they need in the same place and that the day’s activities will be consistent removes uncertainty, and frees them from worry. Functioning in an orderly environment allows the children to begin creating the internal order necessary for intellectual development.

Sensory and Perception

These children are kinesthetic learners; and the Montessori Methodology offers multi-sensory manipulation with auto-educational materials. The Sensorial materials develop and heighten sensory awareness. The children learn by doing and move from the concrete to an abstract understanding of the underlying concept. Finally, the associated language is give. The abstract terminology now provides the tool to compare and classify the numerous impressions received earlier from the environment.

Language

Language skills are developed through the materials and also at circle time activities. As children of this age are hungry for information and words, so we provide them reality based pictures and objects classified by environment. They also are struggling to understand their place in their growing world. From our safe environment, we venture out into the community to observe, following their lead, observing and naming what nature provides for our enjoyment. They build confidence with the ability to express themselves and their needs.

Early Childhood Curriculum – 3 to 5 years

Dr. Maria Montessori embraced a philosophy that emphasized the belief that children were born with all that they need to become the masters of themselves. Their intelligence develops through their senses. She believed that children must be in balance with their environment and their humanity. Children build their intelligence by guidance from teachers and parents not by rote memorization. She developed specific materials that taught concepts subliminally that children were drawn into ecstatically, which in turn allowed them to concentrate and focus. The goal was that concentration allows the thinking process to occur and that the mind can reason. All Montessori classrooms should be set up with “work” which moves from simple to more complex. All materials and extensions must also e ordered from concrete to abstract. In essence by using the senses concretely the mind can build itself in thinking abstractly. Montessori emphasizes that external order brings internal order. Through the ordering of materials properly and presenting lessons to the child, this helps form a sense of order, independence, confidence and self-esteem. A Montessori classroom will help a child begin a journey of who he/she will become and to be the master of his/her own education.

Practical Life

This area develops fine and gross motor skills which enable the child to become more independent in daily life. Through the use of exercises such as pouring, scooping, sweeping, table washing and personal care, the child becomes more self-sufficient. Real life tools and child-size implements mirror the adult world; to refine depth perception, top strengthen eye-hand coordination, and to practice care of the self and the environment.

Sensorial Exercises

This area develops the whole body as the receptor and builder of information. Sensorial materials introduce descriptive language, size, weight, depth, density, length, balance, scents, textures, color gradation, sounds, and classification. Materials are grouped in units of 10 for pre-math skills.

Mathematics

The math materials are introduced in sequence from simple concepts to increasingly complex mastery using solid objects and counting skills before introducing abstract symbols or memorization. The concrete materials are designed to measure, sequence, pair, and count using beads, objects, rods, and spindles. All materials are self correcting. We provide various works for 1-10 comprehension, teach place value with golden beads, and introduce multiplication/division as extensions of adding and subtracting.

Language

Tactile materials, hand-held letters, two and three part matching cards, metal geometric shapes that introduce contours for pre-writing skills, and sandpaper letters all lead to mastery of the sound of each letter. From this, the child builds words and sentences, creates imaginative spelling, illustrates stories, and reads.

Cultural Subjects

Children learn about each continent with its corresponding languages, dress, foods, music, geography, land forms, customs, and animals. This helps raise consciousness about other people and to gain an understanding and compassion for all the people in the world. We study the differences and similarities between cultures; what makes us who we are, our place in our family/community/state/country/the world/our solar system. Unity within diversity is absorbed through each individual’s interest in relation to the whole group. Conflict resolution and skill-building is a daily exercise.

Sciences

Botany (leaf shapes, parts of the flower and tree), zoology (parts of a bird and insect), inquiry (freeze/thaw, magnetism, sink/float), all are areas integrated into the daily curriculum for full exploration.

Arts

Different mediums for expression are available on a daily basis. Most organized are projects are reflective of the holiday and continent theme of the month.

Music and Creative Movement

The musical element of early childhood that appeals to young children is rhythm. The natural response to rhythm is physical. Songs, finger plays, stories, drama, poetry, and dance are all part of music and creative movement.

Appendix A

Classroom Schedules

Infant Classroom Schedule

7:30 – 9:30 ARRIVALS

7:45 – 8:15 FREE PLAY & ONE-ON-ONE INTERACTION

8:15 – 8:30 CHECK DIAPERS

8:30 – 9:00 BOTTLES or CEREAL

9:15 – 9:30 CHECK DIAPERS

9:35 – 11:00 NAPS AS NEEDED & ONE-ON-ONE TIME

11:00 – 11:15 CHECK DIAPERS

11:15 – 11:30 MUSIC & MOVEMENT – Stretch to the music

11:30 – 12:00 PLAYTIME (Tummy Time)

12:00 – 12:30 LUNCH & BOTTLES

12:30 – 12:45 CHECK DIAPERS

1:00 – 1:30 BUGGY RIDE (if weather permits)

1:30 – 3:00 NAPS & NURTURING (staff lunches)

2:00 – 3:30 QUIET PLAY or ONE-ON-ONE (with early risers)

3:00 – 3:30 CHECK DIAPERS / STORY TIME

3:30 – 5:30 BOTTLES/PLAYTIME/PICK-UP

Children’s diaper/lunch bags should be broken down by the parent.

All diapers, wipes and spare changes of clothes should be placed in your child’s cubby.

Lunches/bottles go into the refrigerator where the shelf is labeled for the child.

Please don’t forget to sign your child in and out every day.

The tuition box is located on the side of the refrigerator in the Infant classroom.

Your child’s folder (where you pick up the newsletter, invoice, etc) is located on the bulletin board near the outside door

Please place car seats on the pole outside the door.

Toddler Classroom Schedule

7:30 – 8:30 – Arrival time

8:30 – 9:00 – Play time (inside or outside)

9:00 – 9:25 – Snack time

9:25 – 9:35 – Diaper changing

9:35 – 10:15 – Play time and some art

10:15 – 10:30 – Group time

10:30 – 11:30 – Outside time or buggy ride

11:30 – 12:00 – Lunch time

12:00 – 2:30 – Nap time

2:30 – 2:55 – Snack time

2:55 – 3:15 – Diaper changing and sun screen

3:15 - 4:00 – Outside time

4:00 – 4:30 – Snack time in Infant classroom

4:20 – 5:30 – Playtime in Infant classroom

SPECIALS

Monday –

Tuesday – Music with Mr. Greg

Wednesday – Library Music & Movement or Story time (Science w/ Cheri alternating

weeks)

Thursday – (Swimming during the summer)

Friday -

Transition Classroom Schedule

Please keep in mind that this is a tentative schedule as we try to work around the children’s needs.

7:30 -8:00 – Room Preparation – Free Play (manipulatives)

8:00 – 8:15 – Diaper check

8:15 – 9:00 – Outside play

9:00 – 9:15 – Circle Time

9:15 – 9:30 – Wash hands, Snack time

9:30 – 9:45 – Approximately – Circle Time (greetings, songs, movement)

9:50 – 10:25 - Groups are split – Gym/Classroom

10:25 – 10:50 – Groups are split – Gym/Classroom

10:50 – 11:30 – Outside time

11:30 – 12:00 – Wash Hands, Lunch

12:00 – 12:30 – Prepare for nap – diaper check, wash up, etc.

12:30 – 2:30 – Nap time

2:30 – 3:15 – After nap – Free play, prepare snack

3:15 – 3:30 – Snack time

3:30 to 4:00 – Circle time (Sunscreen)

4:00 to 5:00 – Outside time

5:00 – 5:30 – Inside, hands washed, manipulatives, prepare to go home.

Specials:

Tuesday –Music– 9:30 – 10:00

Wednesday – Library, Science with Cheri on alternating Wednesdays

Thursday – Special Art projects (Swimming during the summer)

Free Choice Fridays - Children can bring a toy or a book to share at circle time and may play with it and share during the a.m. and again p.m.

Early Childhood Classroom Schedule

7:30 - 8:15 - Prepare classroom and work time

8:15 – 9:00 – Outside or Manipulative

9:00 - 9:45 –Morning Group, Greeting Songs, etc. Snack (wash hands)

9:45 – 11:00 – Work Time/Group games – Math, Language, Spanish, Computer, PE Class

11:00 - 11:50 - Outside

11:50 - 12:00 - Lunch prep

12:00 - 12:30 - Lunch time

12:30 - 2:30 - Nap prep & Nap

2:30 - 3:00 – Afternoon Snack

3:00 – 4:00 – Afternoon work time/Projects/Group Story/ Share

4:00 - 5:15 - Playground

5:15 - 5:30 - Prepare to go home/Story time (Short quiet time)

Sunscreen is applied as needed.

Hand washing and bathroom throughout the day.

Specials

Monday – PE Class – Movement

Tuesday – Music 9:00 – 9:30 AM

Wednesday – Library Field Trip (Science w/ Ms. Cheri alternating weeks)

Thursday – Spanish (Swimming during the summer)

Friday – Art Class

*Show and Tell is everyday of the week.

Appendix B

School Calendar

Sage Cottage Montessori School

2010/2011 School Calendar

JUN ( 22) JUL (22) AUG (21) SEP (21)

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
	1	2	3	4				1	2	2	3	4	5	6			1	2	3
7	8	9	10	11	5	6	7	8	9	9	10	11	12	13	6	7	8	9	10
14	15	16	17	18	12	13	14	15	16	16	17	18	19	20	13	14	15	16	17
21	22	23	24	25	19	20	21	22	23	23	24	25	26	27	20	21	22	23	24
28	29	30			26	27	28	29	30	30	31				27	28	29	30

OCT ( 20) NOV (18) DEC (13) JAN (20)

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
				1	1	2	3	4	5			1	2	3	3	4	5	6	7
4	5	6	7	8	8	9	10	11	12	6	7	8	9	10	10	11	12	13	14
11	12	13	14	15	15	16	17	18	19	13	14	15	16	17	17	18	19	20	21
18	19	20	21	22	22	23	24	25	26	20	21	22	23	24	24	25	26	27	28
25	26	27	28	29	29	30				27	28	29	30	31	31

FEB (18) MAR (19) APR (20) MAY (20)

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
	1	2	3	4				1	2	2	3	4	5	6			1	2	3
7	8	9	10	11	5	6	7	8	9	9	10	11	12	13	6	7	8	9	10
14	15	16	17	18	12	13	14	15	16	16	17	18	19	20	13	14	15	16	17
21	22	23	24	25	19	20	21	22	23	23	24	25	26	27	20	21	22	23	24
28	29	30			26	27	28	29	30	30	31				27	28	29	30

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
				1	1	2	3	4	5			1	2	3	3	4	5	6	7
4	5	6	7	8	8	9	10	11	12	6	7	8	9	10	10	11	12	13	14
11	12	13	14	15	15	16	17	18	19	13	14	15	16	17	17	18	19	20	21
18	19	20	21	22	22	23	24	25	26	20	21	22	23	24	24	25	26	27	28
25	26	27	28	29	29	30				27	28	29	30	31	31

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
	1	2	3	4				1	2	2	3	4	5	6			1	2	3
7	8	9	10	11	5	6	7	8	9	9	10	11	12	13	6	7	8	9	10
14	15	16	17	18	12	13	14	15	16	16	17	18	19	20	13	14	15	16	17
21	22	23	24	25	19	20	21	22	23	23	24	25	26	27	20	21	22	23	24
28	29	30			26	27	28	29	30	30	31				27	28	29	30

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
				1	1	2	3	4	5			1	2	3	3	4	5	6	7
4	5	6	7	8	8	9	10	11	12	6	7	8	9	10	10	11	12	13	14
11	12	13	14	15	15	16	17	18	19	13	14	15	16	17	17	18	19	20	21
18	19	20	21	22	22	23	24	25	26	20	21	22	23	24	24	25	26	27	28
25	26	27	28	29	29	30				27	28	29	30	31	31

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
	1	2	3	4				1	2	2	3	4	5	6			1	2	3
7	8	9	10	11	5	6	7	8	9	9	10	11	12	13	6	7	8	9	10
14	15	16	17	18	12	13	14	15	16	16	17	18	19	20	13	14	15	16	17
21	22	23	24	25	19	20	21	22	23	23	24	25	26	27	20	21	22	23	24
28	29	30			26	27	28	29	30	30	31				27	28	29	30

M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F	M	T	W	T	F
				1	1	2	3	4	5			1	2	3	3	4	5	6	7
4	5	6	7	8	8	9	10	11	12	6	7	8	9	10	10	11	12	13	14
11	12	13	14	15	15	16	17	18	19	13	14	15	16	17	17	18	19	20	21
18	19	20	21	22	22	23	24	25	26	20	21	22	23	24	24	25	26	27	28
25	26	27	28	29	29	30				27	28	29	30	31	31