Becca Davis, Head of School
[email protected]
Lisa Surdam, Assistant Head of School
[email protected]
Carla Heinchon, Administrative Assistant
[email protected]
Susan Toutant, Student Records
[email protected]
MISSION STATEMENT
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we are dedicated to nurturing young children through a compassionate and faith-centered environment. Rooted in the Episcopal tradition, we cultivate respect, creativity, and diversity, fostering a community where every child is valued and supported. Our mission is to provide a developmentally appropriate education that encourages curiosity, growth, and a deep sense of belonging, while guiding children to explore the world around them with kindness and understanding. We partner with families and the wider community to inspire lifelong learners who embrace faith, empathy, and the joy of discovery.
PHILOSOPHY
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we believe in nurturing the whole child through a commitment to academic excellence, character development, and spiritual growth in a safe, inclusive, and diverse environment. Rooted in Christian values and the Episcopal tradition, we celebrate each student’s unique gifts and talents, fostering a love of learning and respect for all.
We recognize that every child learns differently and are committed to providing differentiated instruction that meets the needs of all learners. By tailoring teaching strategies and experiences, we empower students to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually, ensuring they reach their fullest potential.
Our philosophy reflects these core values:
- Diversity and Inclusion: We embrace and honor the unique identities, cultures, and perspectives of every member of our school community, fostering an environment of mutual respect and understanding.
- Differentiated Instruction: We use a variety of teaching strategies to engage all learners, addressing individual strengths, needs, and interests to ensure equitable access to education.
- Faith and Character: We instill values of empathy, integrity, and service, encouraging students to lead lives of purpose and compassion.
- Academic Excellence: We provide a rigorous and dynamic curriculum that inspires curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for learning.
- Community and Connection: We cultivate meaningful relationships between students, families, and staff, creating a supportive network that nurtures growth and success.
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we strive to prepare students to be thoughtful, confident, and compassionate leaders in a diverse and ever-changing world.
STATEMENT OF NONDISCRIMINATION
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School does not discriminate against applicants and students on the basis of race, color, and national or ethnic origins in administration of its educational policies, admission policies, tuition assistance and other school administered programs.
WELCOME
We welcome your child and family to St. Christopher’s Episcopal School and hope the learning experience here will be a happy, wholesome one. We strive to give your child the loving care and guidance that children need in their formative years. As parents, you are encouraged to visit us, ask questions and make suggestions. The best assurance for the success of your child’s educational experience is the close cooperation and understanding of you and our staff.
The weekday program has been planned for ages 15 months through 1st Grade children with the goal of helping them develop their spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual and physical development. This handbook has been prepared so you may know our policies and better understand the program as we work together to help your child through a successful year in our program.
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School will not exclude children due to race, color, nationality, ethnic or religious origin.
CAMPUS DESCRIPTION
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is located in the education wing of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church. The property is on 5 acres of beautiful land and has many trees. The atmosphere for nature exploration is excellent. A fenced playground and an additional fenced area provides a safe environment for the children to play and exercise.
We are required to notify parents that St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is located within a gang free zone. This means that certain gang-related criminal activity or engaging in organized criminal activity within 1000 feet of our school is a violation of Texas law and is subject to increased penalty.
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is a tobacco free campus. Smoking and the use of any other tobacco product is prohibited on any portion of the church and school grounds. Please notify the school office if you witness someone who is not in compliance with this policy.
The Episcopal Diocese of Texas does not permit any person, including clergy, staff, students, volunteers, and visitors, to carry a weapon in our churches or schools. This prohibition applies even if the person is licensed to carry a concealed weapon under Texas law.
SCHOOL BOARD
The school is governed by our School Board, which includes at least one parent representative. Our board supports the school staff and Head of School and makes policies for the governance of the School. The school board meets monthly and the meetings are open to anyone interested. St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is a Separately Incorporated Parish School.
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School Board:
Joy Walker Miller, Rector of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church, President; Judy Van Riper, Vice President; Mary Wilson,; Secretary; Sarah Yowell, Treasurer; Samantha DiSalvio, Parent Representative; Vacant
LICENSING INFORMATION Licensing and Compliance Information
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is licensed by the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) of the State of Texas and adheres to all required minimum standards. A copy of the Minimum Standards document is on file and accessible to all employees. Each staff member is required to review this manual annually as part of the employee training process.
Availability of Minimum Standards Document The Minimum Standards document is also available for parents to review. A copy is located in the preschool office for your convenience.
Contact Information for Licensing Agency If you have any questions for our licensing agency, you may contact the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (TDFPS):
- Phone: 254-526-9011
- Website: www.tdprs.state.tx.us
- www.txchildcaresearch.org
School is posted and available for review in the office.
Reporting Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect Our staff is committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all children. Any suspected incident of child abuse or neglect will be reported to the Department of Family and Protective Services. If you have concerns, you may contact:
- DFPS Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-252-5400
- CHILDHELP USA National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-CHILD)
Non-Discrimination Policy St. Christopher’s Episcopal School admits applicants without discrimination based on race, national origin, religion, or challenging conditions. However, the school reserves the right to decline admission if it cannot appropriately or adequately meet a child’s personal or developmental needs.
Program and Admission Requirements Our program features 8 classrooms, accommodating children from 15 months of age through 2nd grade. Class placement is determined by the child’s age. To be eligible for admission, children must be at least 15 months old by September 1st.
Registration and Enrollment Registration is completed through Brightwheel by submitting all required forms. These forms will be sent via Brightwheel to complete the enrollment process. A non-refundable enrollment fee is also required.
The following documents must be submitted on or before the first day of school:
- Health Statement/Medical Form with a physician’s signature
- Parent Handbook Signature Page
- Immunization records
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School Policies and Procedures Immunization and Health Requirements
In compliance with Texas licensing regulations, all immunization records must be up to date. Please submit updated records as your child receives new vaccinations. If any required immunizations are missing, you will be notified and must provide proof within three (3) days.
Tuberculin (TB) testing is not required for children ages 2-7.
As mandated by state law, all students who turn four years old by September 1 must undergo a vision and hearing screening. This screening should be conducted during their four-year-old check-up with their pediatrician. The results must be submitted along with the child’s health form.
Enrollment: Vacancies and Waitlist
Enrollment is based on a first-come, first-served basis. If no spots are available, families may opt to join
the waitlist until a vacancy opens.
Class Schedules and Hours
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School offers the following class options:
- Three-day program: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday
- Five-day program: Monday through Friday
- Regular Day: 8:20 AM – 2:30 PM
- Extended Day: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Staff will greet students at the curb and parking lot from 8:20 AM to 8:40 AM.
- After 8:40 AM, students must be dropped off in the small parking lot.
- School doors remain locked at all times for security.
- Teachers will contact parents to schedule a Meet the Teacher conference the week before school begins.
- First Day of School: Tuesday, August 19, 2025
- The school calendar will be available on the school website.
- Mid-Year Conference (End of First Semester)
- End-of-Year Conference
Parents may also schedule additional meetings with teachers through Brightwheel as needed
- Weather-related closures will be announced on local news or via phone calls from teachers.
- All other closures are determined by the DFPS, school board, diocese, and church.
- Although St. Christopher’s operates as a school, it is regulated by the Department of Family and
Protective Services (DFPS).
- Children picked up late will be placed in the Extended Day program, and applicable fees will be charged.
- A $35 late fee will apply for pickups after 5:00 PM, unless an emergency (e.g., car accident, unexpected traffic) is communicated to the school.
- An additional $35 fee will be charged for every 30 minutes past 5:00 PM.
FEES
1. Agreement to Pay Tuition and Fees
Starting in the 2025-26 school year, I/we agree to pay the annual tuition and any applicable fees as outlined in this agreement. I/we understand and agree to adhere to all school policies regarding tuition and fees.
2. Payment System
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School utilizes the Brightwheel payment system for tuition and fee management.
For New Families:
- Upon registration, you will be required to create a Brightwheel account.
- Payment options include:
Full Payment
10-Month Plan (June through March) Quarterly Plan - Payment setup must be completed promptly to finalize enrollment.
For Returning Families:
- Your existing Brightwheel account will automatically roll over into the 2025-26 school year using your current payment plan and financial account information.
- To make adjustments, contact Carla Heinchon at [email protected].
- Enrollment Fee: $75 (non-refundable)
- Invoiced at registration and due by May 31, 2025.
- Late fee of $35 will be added for payments made after June 1, 2025.
- Returning Student Fee:
- Invoiced at registration and due by May 31, 2025. Late fee of $35 will be added after June 1, 2025.
- Supply Invoice Date: June 27, 2025
- Payment Due Date: July 10, 2025
- Payments made after July 31, 2025, will incur a $35 late fee (added August 1, 2025).
- Tuition is due on the 1st of each month.
- A $35 late fee will be added to accounts not paid by the 11th of the month.
- The first tuition payment for the school year is due August 1, 2025.
All questions or concerns regarding billing must be directed to: Carla Heinchon Email:[email protected]
Accommodating Families and Children Policy
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we are committed to meeting the diverse needs of every child, including cultural backgrounds, differing abilities, and language preferences.
- If a child receives therapies or interventions, a designated space will be provided for the child and their teacher.
- Cultural accommodations may be requested during enrollment and will be reviewed by the Head of School for approval.
- Medical and dietary accommodations require official documentation.
- Language support is available through literature, books, and additional resources.
Arrivals and Departures
To ensure a smooth and safe transition, parents must adhere to school hours for drop-off and pick-up.
Drop-Off Procedures
- Parents may park in the large parking lot and walk their child to the sidewalk or remain in their vehicle while staff assist with drop-off.
- Children must be easily accessible to staff--no third-row seating for drop-off.
- Students must be signed in and out daily using the Brightwheel App by scanning the QR code posted
on the Little Library or on a staff member’s ID. - Adherence to this licensing regulation is essential, as it helps teachers maintain an accurate student count
at all times.
• Pre-K4 through 2nd-grade students have permanent attendance records, which will be transferred upon request when enrolling in future schools.
Class Dismissal
- Any child not picked up by 2:35 PM will be taken to Extended Day, and the daily rate will be applied.
Early Pick-Up & Authorized Pick-Ups
- Only individuals listed on your child’s Brightwheel registration are allowed to pick up your child.
- For early pick-ups, parents must check in at the front office and wait for a staff member to bring their
child. - If you plan to pick up your child early, please notify the teacher in the morning.
- Class officially ends at 2:30 PM.
Absences
If your child will be absent, please notify the school by:
- Messaging the teacher through Brightwheel
- Calling the office at (254) 526-8380
- Emailing [email protected]
Curriculum
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we believe that play is the work of childhood and that young children learn best through hands-on, engaging, and enjoyable experiences. Our teachers create a multisensory, play- based learning environment that fosters spiritual, social, emotional, intellectual, and physical development.
Our teacher-designed curriculum is built to encourage lifelong learners, and our small class sizes with a low teacher-pupil ratio allow for personalized instruction that meets the unique needs of each child.
Curriculum Resources
Our curriculum incorporates research-based resources tailored to each age group:
- Kindergarten – 2nd Grade:
o Mindful Math
o Little Thinkers Science & Social Studies
- Pre-K3 – 1st Grade:
- Toddler, Pre-K2, & Pre-K3:
Our Kindergarten – 2nd grade curriculum follows the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS), while Pre-Kindergarten adheres to the Pre-Kindergarten Guidelines established by the Texas Education Agency (TEA). More information on TEA guidelines can be found at: TEA Website.
Outdoor Learning & Play
We recognize the importance of regular outdoor activity as part of a child’s learning experience. Outdoor play provides an environment that supports varied learning styles and enhances overall development.
At SCES, outdoor learning opportunities include:
- Playground time
- Story Walks
- Soccer Shots
- Kinderdance
- Outdoor classroom experiences
Screen Time Policy
- SCES limits screen time strictly to educational purposes.
- Teachers may use short educational videos (up to 10 minutes) to enhance learning, such as teaching
songs or reinforcing unit concepts. - On days when outdoor play is restricted due to weather or church use of the Parish Hall,
children may watch a short video, not exceeding 20 minutes.
Chapel
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School holds Chapel every Wednesday, led by either the Head of School or the Rector of St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church. The service lasts approximately 15–20 minutes and includes:
- Prayer
- A Bible story
- Songs
To make Chapel accessible to families, services are streamed live on Facebook. This allows parents and loved ones to participate virtually and share in their child’s spiritual growth.
Chapel provides a positive worship experience for children, fostering spiritual development and an understanding of God’s love.
Health Policy
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School follows all CDC recommendations and state guidelines to help prevent the
spread of illness and disease. A child must stay home if:
- They are unable to participate in school activities, including outdoor play.
- They exhibit any of the following symptoms:
- Fever of 100.4°F or higher, accompanied by behavior changes or other signs of illness.
- Symptoms such as wheezing, uncontrolled diarrhea, vomiting, rash with fever, mouth sores with
- A diagnosed communicable disease, without medical clearance stating they are no longer
3. They have a communicable disease as defined by the Texas Department of Health (TDH) in 25TAC
97.7.
Return to School Policy:
• Children must be symptom-free for at least 24 hours before returning to school.
Illness at School:
- If a child becomes ill at school, we will contact the first parent/guardian listed on Brightwheel.
- If there is no response, we will attempt to reach the second parent/guardian.
- If no response is received within 30 minutes, we will contact the first emergency contact listed.
Pandemic Emergency Response Definition of a Pandemic
A pandemic is defined as:
- A disease that is prevalent over an entire country or the world.
- An outbreak of a pandemic disease.
Response Plan
In the event of a pandemic, St. Christopher’s Episcopal School will implement the Pandemic Section of
its Crisis Management Plan under the guidance and direction of:
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- Federal and local governments
- The Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS)
The school will continuously monitor the situation and follow official recommendations to ensure the safety of children, families, and staff. Decisions regarding operations will be based on the latest guidance from health authorities.
Possible Safety Measures
Depending on the severity of the situation, the following measures may be implemented:
• Temporary School Closure
o Closure length will be determined based on guidance from the CDC, federal and local
governments, and DFPS.
- Adjusted Hours of Operation
- Daily Health Screenings
• Restricted Building Entry
o Limited access to school premises to essential personnel only.
• Property Access Limitations
o Restrictions may be placed on who can enter and how spaces are used.
• Limitations on Personal Items
o Certain personal belongings may not be allowed in the center, including:
§ Blankets
§ Stuffed animals
§ Pillows
Communication Plan
In the event of pandemic-related changes, St. Christopher’s Episcopal School will communicate updates
through multiple channels:
- Mass Emails
- Brightwheel App
- School Website
- Facebook Page
These efforts will ensure families receive timely and accurate information regarding health and safety measures.
Medication Policy
Administration of Medication
- Medication may only be dispensed by the Head of School or Administrative Assistant.
- Parents must complete and sign an authorization form before any medication can be administered.
- Forms are available on the school webpage.
• All medication must be in its original container with the following clearly labeled:
o Child’s name
o Dosage
o Time to dispense
o Date the medication was brought to the center
• If medication is prescribed to be taken only twice a day, it must be administered at home.
Allergy & Emergency Medications
• Children with severe allergies (e.g., bee stings, ant bites) who require an EpiPen must have a doctor’s letter on file in the office.
Over-the-Counter Lotions & Creams
• Lotions and creams (e.g., sunscreen, diaper cream) may be applied by staff with written parental permission.
Discipline Policy
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, we take a proactive approach to discipline by planning age- appropriate activities that encourage positive behavior. Our staff is trained in Conscious Discipline, a research-based approach that helps children develop self-regulation skills, build positive relationships, and learn conflict resolution strategies.
When a child willfully harms another person (e.g., hitting, kicking, biting, pushing) or is disruptive within the group setting, the following steps will be taken:
Behavior Management Steps
1. Redirection
- The child will be redirected to a more appropriate behavior.
- A Behavior/Incident Report will be completed for both children involved.
- Parents will be required to review and sign the form at the end of the day, and it will be placed
2. Safe Place (Time-Out)
- If inappropriate behavior continues, the child may be placed in a "safe place" (time-out) within the classroom.
- Time-outs will be within the teacher's view and last no longer than one minute per year of the child’s age.
- This allows the child time to self-regulate and restart positively.
- If behavior difficulties become habitual, a parent conference will be scheduled to establish strategies for support.
- If a parent has been contacted three times due to ongoing behavior concerns, the child may be asked to leave the program.
At no time will staff discipline a child using:
- Physical punishment (hitting, striking, shaking)
- Deprivation of food, sleep, or outdoor play
- Any form of verbal or emotional abuse
Staff Training & Conscious Discipline
All staff members at St. Christopher’s Episcopal School receive training in Conscious Discipline, a
comprehensive classroom management approach that focuses on:
- Teaching self-regulation skills
- Building strong teacher-child relationships
- Encouraging problem-solving and emotional resilience
- Creating a positive, safe, and connected classroom environment
- Recognize and manage their emotions
- Develop empathy for others
- Solve conflicts in a respectful and constructive manner
Our goal is to create an environment where children feel safe, loved, and empowered to make positive choices.
Child Abuse & Neglect Reporting
All staff members are required to complete annual training on Child Abuse & Neglect, including how
to recognize and report suspected cases.
Safe Church Training
- All staff members complete Safe Church Training through the Episcopal Church, which educates them on warning signs of abuse and teaches children ways to protect themselves.
If child abuse or neglect is suspected, staff are legally required to report it to:
- Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS): 1-800-252-5400
- CHILDHELP USA National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-422-4453 (1-800-4-A-CHILD)
Parent & Teacher Communication
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is committed to providing a loving, warm, and supportive
environment for all children and families. Open communication between teachers and parents is essential in fostering a successful learning experience.
- Teachers will work collaboratively with parents to develop solutions that bridge home and school.
- Parents are encouraged to communicate any concerns through Brightwheel at any time.
Safety Policy
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, your child’s safety is our top priority. Our staff provides constant
supervision to ensure a secure environment. However, minor injuries may occur during play.
- In the event of a minor injury, staff will administer first aid and complete an Accident/Incident Report in Brightwheel.
- For serious injuries or illness, parents will be notified immediately.
- All staff members are certified in Pediatric First Aid and CPR.
Emergency Procedures
Fire, Tornado, and Evacuation Drills
- Monthly fire drills are conducted to familiarize children with emergency procedures and reduce fear in the event of a real emergency.
- Tornado drills and other safety procedures are practiced regularly. Emergency Evacuation Plan
In the event of an extreme emergency requiring evacuation beyond school premises, children will be transported to our designated emergency meeting location:
- Children will only be released to authorized emergency contacts listed on the registration form.
- ID verification is required for pickup.
- A detailed emergency plan is available in the school office for review at any time.
During severe weather, St. Christopher’s Episcopal School will follow the closure and delay schedule of Killeen Independent School District (KISD).
Outdoor Play & Weather Precautions Children will go outside for playtime unless the wind chill is below 32°F.
Weather Guidelines:
- Hot Weather:
o Send an extra water bottle with your child.
- Cold Weather:
Emergency Preparedness & Health Practices
- A detailed Emergency Procedure Handbook is available in the school office and in each classroom. Parents may review the handbook at any time.
- Handwashing is a critical part of maintaining a healthy environment.
- Children and staff wash hands multiple times per day with soap and water.
- SCES does not use wipes or hand sanitizer as a replacement for proper handwashing.
Special Events
Throughout the year, St. Christopher’s Episcopal School hosts various special events for students and
families.
Annual Events Include:
- Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper & Book Fair (in partnership with St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church)
- Thanksgiving Feast
- Community Helpers Sign-Up
- Valentine’s Day Celebration
- Parents are encouraged to participate in volunteer opportunities throughout the year.
- View the Calendar of Events on our website: www.stchristopherepiscopalschool.com/calendar-and-news.html
- Attend PTO meetings to stay updated on events and additional opportunities.
- Join the St. Christopher’s Episcopal School & PTO Facebook Page to receive the latest updates, as
new events are added throughout the year.
Birthdays
A child’s birthday is a special milestone, and we love celebrating with them!
- If you would like to bring special treats for your child’s birthday, please:
- Check with the teacher at least one week in advance to confirm the date and review any food
- Provide healthy options whenever possible.
Parties
- We celebrate major holidays with class parties.
- Party dates are listed on the Calendar of Events.
- Parents interested in helping with a party should consult with the teacher or school office for ways to
contribute.
Animals at School
Occasionally, animals visit St. Christopher’s Episcopal School as part of special activities or lessons.
- Parents must complete the Animal Permission Form in Brightwheel before their child interacts with visiting animals.
Personal Toys
To help maintain a focused and organized learning environment, we ask that personal toys remain at home.
- SCES is not responsible for any toys brought to school.
- A favorite stuffed animal or blanket may be brought for rest time only but must remain packed in
your child’s backpack when not in use.
- Occasionally, teachers will invite children to bring an item for Show & Tell.
- Items should be small enough to fit inside a backpack.
Reminder: Please label all personal items with your child’s name.
Clothing
Our play-based learning environment includes messy and outdoor activities. While we take
precautions, clothing may get dirty.
Clothing Guidelines
- Dress your child in comfortable, washable clothes suitable for active play.
- Closed-toe shoes are strongly recommended to prevent mulch from causing discomfort.
- Crocs and flip-flops are not allowed for safety reasons.
Each child must bring a backpack containing an extra set of seasonally appropriate clothing, including:
- Socks
- Shoes
- Underwear (if applicable)
For children who wear diapers or pull-ups:
- Only disposable diapers are permitted.
- Children in pull-ups must provide pull-ups with Velcro side tabs for easy changing.
- For children who are potty training, we are happy to support this transition.
Potty Training Requirement
- Children in Pre-K4 through 2nd grade must be fully potty trained.
- A medical excuse must be provided if a child in these age groups requires assistance with toileting.
For health reasons, we are unable to wash soiled clothing at school.
Rest Time
In accordance with Texas state standards, children 18 months and older who attend for five or more
consecutive hours must have a supervised rest period after lunch.
Rest Time Guidelines
- Please provide a thin nap mat for your child.
- You may send a beach towel or small blanket for coverage.
- A king-size or body-size pillowcase can be used as a mat cover.
- Bedding items will be sent home regularly for laundering.
- Per Texas Child Care Licensing Standard #746.2907, children who wake up early or do not sleep will be provided a quiet activity until rest time ends.
- Pre-K through 2nd grade students are not required to nap.
Snacks
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School provides a healthy snack each day, prepared by a certified food handler.
- All food expiration dates are monitored, and any expired products are immediately discarded.
- If your child has food allergies or special dietary needs, please indicate them clearly on the
registration form so we can accommodate your child appropriately. - If you would like to bring a special snack for your child’s class, please make arrangements in
advance with the teacher. - The snack schedule operates on a four-week rotation and is available for review in the school office.
Lunches
Parents must provide their child’s daily lunch. To ensure a smooth and safe lunchtime experience, please
follow these guidelines:
Lunchbox Guidelines:
✅Pack lunches and drinks that your child can open independently.
❌No soda is allowed!
❌No candy! (Candy will be returned in the lunchbox.)
Food Preparation & Safety:
- We cannot heat foods, so microwaveable items are not permitted.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables must be cut into small pieces for safe eating.
- An extra water bottle is encouraged for hydration throughout the day.
- Label all lunchboxes, thermoses, water bottles, and cups with your child’s name.
Water Bottle Requirement
Each child must bring a labeled water bottle to be left in the classroom for the week.
- The water bottle will be sent home on Fridays for cleaning and refilling.
- This ensures children have consistent access to water throughout the day.
Infant & Toddler Milk Guidelines
Parents may provide:
- Formula, breastmilk, or milk substitutes as needed.
- Breastmilk must be in a clearly labeled bottle with the child’s name.
- A private space will be provided for breastfeeding.
- Breastmilk will be stored in the classroom refrigerator and warmed according to parent instructions.
Labeling Requirement
🚨All cups, lunchboxes, water bottles, pacifiers, and personal items MUST be labeled with your child’s name!
📌Note: St. Christopher’s Episcopal School is not responsible for meeting your child’s full nutritional requirements. Parents should ensure their child’s meals are nutritionally balanced and appropriate for their dietary needs.
Brightwheel
Brightwheel is our childcare management system used for:
✔Attendance tracking
✔Billing & payments
✔Student records, including medical and family information
Parent & Guardian Access
- Parents who provide an email during registration will receive access to Brightwheel.
- The enrolling parent can grant app access to additional members, including:
o Parents
o Grandparents o Babysitters
• Additional users will have access to:
✅Timeline & Sign-In/Out
❌Billing & student records (unless designated as a co-owner of the account).
Primary Account Holder
- By default, Mom is listed as the primary account owner and will have sole access to billing and personal student information unless otherwise requested.
- Parents may make changes in Brightwheel or contact the school office for assistance.
Communication
At St. Christopher’s Episcopal School, communication with parents will occur via:
📌Website: www.stchristopherepiscopalschool.com/
📌 Brightwheel
Additional Communication Notes:
- Check your child’s backpack daily for important notices.
- Keep email addresses up to date to ensure you receive school updates.
- Teachers do not use personal cell phones for school-related communication.
- Parents should use email, Brightwheel, or written notes to communicate with teachers.
Social Media Policy
St. Christopher’s Episcopal School maintains an official website and Facebook page to share updates and events:
🌐Website: www.stchristopherepiscopalschool.com/
📌Facebook: Official School & PTO Page
Photo & Privacy Policy
- Photos of children will not be posted unless a signed photo release is provided at enrollment.
- Teachers do not accept friend requests from parents until after the school year ends.
Student Records
- Student records are stored in a locked, fireproof, and waterproof cabinet for security.
- When students leave the program, records are moved to an inactive file system and kept for three
years. - After three years, records are securely disposed of.
- Student records are never released without a signed parental consent form.
First Day of School Checklist
✔Current Shot Records & Medical Form
✔Nap Mat (thin) & Blanket – Marked with child’s first name & last initial (A king-size or body pillowcase fits most mats and allows for easy laundering.)
✔Water Bottle/Sports Bottle – To be left in the classroom for the week, marked with child’s first name & last initial
✔Change of Clothes (including socks & shoes) – Marked with child’s first name & last initial
✔Diapers & Baby Wipes (if applicable)
✔Backpack – Marked with child’s first name & last initial
✔Healthy Lunch (No soda, no candy!)
