Parent Handbook
2011-2012
Nisonger Early Childhood Education Center
Nisonger Center
1581 Dodd Drive
Columbus, Ohio 43210
(614) 292-9605
http://nisonger.osu.edu/
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
2
Letter from the ECE Director
3
Parent Signature Page
4
Our ECE Team
5-6
Mission, Vision, & Values
7
Admissions/Enrollment
8
Bill of Rights
9
A Sample Nisonger ECE School Day
10
Classroom Management
11
Interdisciplinary Services
Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Language Therapy,
Adaptive Physical Education, Other
12
Individual Family Service Plans (IFSP) and Individual Education Plans (IEP)
13
Parent Participation and Rights
13-17
Nisonger Policies and Procedures
General: Attendance/Illness, Missing Child Act, Visitors, Phone Calls
Pictures, Observation Booths, Snacks/Infant Foods, Changes
Clothing, Cancellations/Early Leave, and Medical Information
18-22
Transportation and Parking
23
FCB Bus Transportation
23-24
Nisonger OSU Parking & Map
25-26
School Calendar
2
27
Dear Early Childhood Education families,
Welcome to the Nisonger Center’s Early Childhood Education (ECE) Program! We are happy that you
chose to enroll your child in our program. Our team of qualified and motivated staff are committed to
helping your child thrive this school year.
The Nisonger Center ECE is a place where your child will learn and grow. We are dedicated to helping
your child achieve his or her potential by using developmentally appropriate evidenced based practices
in our classrooms. Early childhood educators, therapists, support staff, and university students strive to
meet every child’s individual needs through our safe, play-based classroom activities.
Families are an important part of our program. We value the unique insight you have regarding your
child and hope you will partner with us to meet your child’s needs. We also prioritize supporting you
and hope you will take advantage of the innovative ways our team will reach out to help you this
upcoming school year.
We are looking forward to the upcoming school year together.
Sincerely,
Kathy Lawton
ECE Director
3
PARENT SIGNATURE PAGE
The Nisonger Parent Handbook is a valuable source of information concerning policies, procedures,
phone numbers, parent’s rights and responsibilities.
By signing below you are acknowledging that you have received this 2011-2012 Parent Handbook. You
are also acknowledging that you understand the policies and procedures of the Nisonger Center’s Early
Childhood Education Program.
Policies and procedures can be translated by calling (614) 292-9605 and requesting this service.
_____________________________________ parent or guardian of ___________________________
(print Parent/Guardian name)
(Child’s name)
____________________________________________________________________________________
(Signature)
(Date)
4
OUR ECE TEAM
Our ECE team is comprised of a phenomenal interdisciplinary team that is committed to helping your
child excel. Below you will you find a list of our team members. Each team member can be contacted
by calling our office at 292-9605.
Team member
Title
Email
Work Location
Dr. Kathy Lawton
ECE Director
Kathy.lawton@osumc.edu
275D
Sara Thiessen
ECE Coordinator
Sara.thiessen@osumc.edu
275B
Kalin Palmer
Office Associate
Kalin.palmer@osumc.edu
275
Becky Selegue
Physical Therapist
Becky.selegue@osumc.edu
275C &OSUCCC
Monica Snider
Monica.snider@osumc.edu
275E
Jamie Franklin
Occupational
Therapist
Speech Therapist
Jamie.Franklin@osumc.edu
275F
Raechel Staugler
Teacher
raechel.staugler@osumc.edu
269
Lisa Murray
Teacher
lisa.murray@osumc.edu
261
Elizabeth Harzoff
Teacher
Elizabeth.harzoff@osumc.edu
157
Shaun Barrett
Teacher
Shaun.Barrett@osumc.edu
161
Michelle Swift
Teacher Assistant
Michelle.swift@osumc.edu
275
Leah Holland
Teacher Assistant
leah.holland@osumc.edu
269
Gina Stefanik
Teacher Assistant
Gina.Stefanik@osumc.edu
261
Jane Kontras
Teacher Assistant
Jane.kontras@osumc.edu
161
Ellen Cook
Teacher Assistant
Ellen.cook@osumc.edu
157
Kristin Donnell
OSUCCC Itinerant
Teacher
OSUCCC OT
Kristin.donnell@osumc.edu
OSUCCC
Lindy.tomawis@osumc.edu
OSUCCC
OSUCCC SLP
(Columbus, Speech
& Hearing)
Lterrell@columbusspeech.org
OSUCCC
Lindy Tomawis
Leslie Terrell
5
The following people may be contacted through the ECE office at (614) 292-9605
Kathy Lawton, Nisonger ECE Director – Kathy.Lawton@osumc.edu
Sara Thiessen, Nisonger ECE Coordinator - Sara.Thiessen@osumc.edu
Kalin Palmer, Nisonger ECE Administrative Assistant – Kalin.Palmer@osumc.edu
Nisonger ECE Therapists:
Monica Snider
Occupational Therapist
Becky Selegue
Physical Therapist
Jamie Franklin
Speech/Language Therapist
Classroom teachers:
Elizabeth Harzoff:
Shaun Barrett:
Raechel Staugler:
Lisa Murray:
Room 157 - AM/ PM
Room 161 - AM/PM
Room 269 - AM/PM
Room 261 - AM/PM
Classroom Assistants :
Ellen Cook:
Jane Kontras:
Leah Holland:
Gina Stefanik:
Michelle Swift:
Room 157
Room 161
Room 269
Room 261
Floater
OTHER HELPFUL CONTACTS
Franklin County Board of DD Transportation …………………………………………………………… (614) 475-5910
Dr. Marc J. Tassé, Nisonger Center Director………………………………………………………….……(614) 292-2390
Dr. Andrea Witwer, Psychologist………………………………………………………………………….…….(614) 292-9605
Franklin County Board of DD ECE Office……………………………………..……………………………..(614) 475-0564
Franklin County Board of DD Administration………………………………………………………………(614) 475-6440
Ohio Department of Education Ombudsman………………..(614)728-6699…………………….1-888-222-4173
Ohio Department of DD…………………………………………………..…………………………………………1-800-231-5872
Ohio Legal Rights Service…………………………. (614)466-7246……….……………………………….1-800-282-9181
6
Mission Statement
We are a team of professionals whose mission is to form partnerships with families to support the
development of the young child - with or without special needs - in our center based programs. We
are also a unique learning site for professionals and pre-professionals interested in developmental
disabilities.
ECE Philosophy
We embrace the unique characteristics of all persons with or without specials needs as well as the
diversity of the communities from which they come. We believe every child is entitled to positive
learning experiences in a safe learning environment which will challenge him or her to grow in
knowledge and skills. We also support the academic and research activities of The Ohio State
University and other organizations.
7
General Information
Admissions/Enrollment
The Franklin County Board of Development Disabilities (FCBDD) must first refer children pursuing
enrollment at Nisonger ECE. Your home base specialist, service coordinator or home school district
may start this process by calling (614) 475-0564. Tours are available of the Nisonger ECE by calling
(614) 292-9605.
Nisonger ECE Contact Person: Sara Thiessen, ECE Coordinator
Phone: (614) 292-9605
Area Served: Franklin County
Cost: No cost to children with special needs, a $75.00 monthly fee is requested of peer model children.
A monthly statement will be sent home 2 weeks prior to the due date, which is the last day of the
month. If payment is not received by the 1st of each month, a letter will be sent home stating we did
not receive your payment. Please feel free to contact us at (614) 292-9605 if you have any questions
or concerns regarding your payment.
Transportation: Door-to-door transportation is provided for children with special needs within Franklin
County as determined by FCBDD transportation department. Bus service for peer models is not
provided except for those peers who are siblings of enrolled children with special needs.
Hours and Days of Operation
Hours:
A.M. 8:30 – 11:40
P.M.
12:50-4:00
Days:
 Infant/Toddler Room – (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays) 3 half days of classroom services,
home visits and family support.
 Toddler Room – (Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays) 4 half days of classroom
services, home visits and family support.
 Younger Pre-K Room – (Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays) 4 half days of classroom
services and family support.
 Older Pre-K Room – (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays) 4 half days of classroom
services and family support.
 Peer Models may attend three or four half days of classroom participation
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Bill of Rights
For Persons with an Intellectual or Developmental Disability
The rights of persons with an intellectual or a developmental disability include, but are not limited to
the following:
1. The right to be treated at all times with courtesy and respect and with full recognition of their
dignity and individuality.
2. The right to an appropriate, safe, and sanitary living environment that complies with local, state,
and federal standards and recognizes the persons’ need for privacy and independence.
3. The right to food adequate to meet standards of nutrition.
4. The right to practice the religion of their choice or to abstain from the practice of religion.
5. The right of timely access to appropriate medical or dental treatment.
6. The right of access to necessary ancillary services, including, but not limited to, occupational
therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, and behavior support and other services.
7. The right to receive appropriate care and treatment in the least intrusive manner.
8. The right to privacy, including both periods of privacy and places of privacy.
9. The right to communicate freely with persons of their choice in any reasonable manner they
choose.
10. The right to ownership and use of personal possessions so as to maintain individuality and
personal dignity.
11. The right to social interaction with members of either sex.
12. The right to access to opportunities that enable individuals to develop their full human potential.
13. The right to pursue vocational opportunities that will promote and enhance economic
independence.
14. The right to be treated equally as citizens under the law.
15. The right to be free from emotional, psychological, and physical abuse.
16. The right to participate in appropriate programs of education, training, social development, and
habilitation and in programs of reasonable recreation.
17. The right to participate in decisions that affect their lives.
18. The right to select a parent or advocate to act on their behalf.
19. The right to manage their personal financial affairs, based on individual ability to do so.
20. The right to confidential treatment of all information in their personal and medical records,
except to the extent that disclosure or release of records is permitted under sections 5123:89 and
5126.044 [5126.04.4] of the Revised Code.
21. The right to voice grievances and recommend changes in policies and services without restraint,
interference, coercion, discrimination, or reprisal.
22. The right to be free from unnecessary chemical or physical restraints.
23. The right to participate in the political process.
24. The right to refuse to participate in medical, psychological, or other medical research or
experiments.
All staff members have received background checks and annually read Franklin County Board of DD
policy regarding Abuser Registry – Notice to Employees.
The Nisonger Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, ethnic origin, marital
status, or political beliefs.
9
A Typical Nisonger ECE School Day
This is a typical day in the ECE setting.
Children in the: AM session arrive at 8:30 AM and leave at 11:40 AM.
PM session arrive at 12:50 PM and leave at 4:00 PM.
Arrival
The children are taken from the bus or from cars by classroom staff and the children's parents. An arrival
routine is established quickly. Personal care skills are incorporated through removal of coats, which
involves unzipping zippers, unfastening fasteners, and hanging them up in the appropriate place.
Bathroom
Toileting and personal hygiene skills are incorporated here. Bathroom time is also an excellent time for
language and communication.
Play
Play is the way children explore and learn about their world, as well as have fun. Children select play
activities within a teacher-planned environment. Activity choices may include exploratory, pretend play, or
creative art, sensory or manipulative play. During play, staff implements IFSP/IEP goals through individual
and small or larger group activities, as well as facilitating social interaction and communication.
Clean-up
During this activity the child has the opportunity to gain knowledge in following directions, visual
discrimination, responsibility, self-discipline and memory skills. Other skills that children acquire are
knowledge of the classroom routine, social interactions and cooperation with adults and peers, ability to
communicate effectively, and independence. Clean-up ability may generalize to the home setting as well.
Snack
Although young children need a small snack mid-morning or afternoon to support their nutritional needs,
there are many benefits from snack time. Children not only work on feeding and hygiene skills, but they
also benefit from experiences such as using utensils, manners, cooperating with adults and peers, following
directions, and socializing with peers and adults. Snack time is an excellent opportunity for children to talk
about home, school, and everyday occurrences.
Gross Motor
Gross motor time is necessary in every child's day. Children expend energy, while acquiring abilities in the
areas of coordination, balance, visual and auditory perception, and problem solving skills. Whether a child
is involved with therapy (occupational or physical), or classroom-based gross motor skills, he is gaining
knowledge and input as to what his body can do. Hopefully, the child is also receiving ideas on what he can
accomplish, as well as developing his interests, and is learning more about himself and the people in this
world.
Circle Time
Songs and interactive games are usually a part of circle time. Children enjoy music, turn-taking, choice
making and the development of pre-literacy skills. Movement and vocabulary are often enhanced during
music activities. Sharing of books, both pictures and stories may also be a part of this group. These
activities are often noisy and seemingly "chaotic" as the children sing, answer, question, point, touch and
explore. Communication and problem solving strategies are implemented during all child routines and
especially at circle time.
Transitions
Transitions occur throughout the day, including arrival, departure, and between activities. Movement,
following directions, staying with the group, and awareness of one activity ending and another beginning
are integral to a child's functioning in the classroom and home and, ultimately, in the community at large.
10
Positive Discipline Practices in Early Childhood Education
Appropriate behavior in children is encouraged by staff who model courtesy and respectfulness. With
the help from teaching staff, children are supported in practicing non-violent forms of managing
conflict or less preferred encounters. In addition, children are able to learn from safe mistakes.
Children are limited when they:
Infringe on the rights of others
Endanger themselves or others
Misuse materials or equipment
Appropriate adult supporting Methods
Helping children express their needs appropriately
Involve the child in the outcome; make certain
he/she understands the consequences
Consequences may include:
Inclusion in deciding the solution
Communication with an appropriate support person(s)
Care or repair of space and/ or equipment
Separation with a teacher
Separation or “time away” from a situation or
space for repeating infringement
Parent Contact
Referral for Behavior Support
Classroom Management/Discipline
The Center’s methods of discipline apply to all persons on the premises and are in compliance with
section 5101:2-12-56 of the State Licensing Code as follows:
• There shall be no cruel, harsh or unusual punishments such as, but not limited to, punching,
pinching shaking or biting.
• No discipline technique shall be delegated to any other child.
• No physical restraints shall be used to confine a child. No child shall be placed in a locked room or
confined in an enclosed area such as a closet, box or similar cubicle.
• No child shall be humiliated or subjected to profane language, threats, derogatory remarks about
himself or his family or other verbal abuse.
• Discipline shall not be imposed on a child for failure to eat, failure to sleep or for toileting
accidents.
• Techniques of discipline shall not humiliate, shame or frighten a child. Discipline shall not include
withholding food, rest or toilet use.
• Parents and/or guardians of children enrolled in this center will receive a copy of our written
discipline policy.
All staff members receive a copy of the Center’s discipline policy for review prior to their first day of
employment.
Teachers, therapists and parents shall work together to assure that each child’s behavior is managed in
a positive and caring way. As stated in our philosophy each child is entitled to a positive learning
experience in a safe environment.
11
Interdisciplinary Services
The Nisonger Center Early Childhood Education program is served by an interdisciplinary team of educators
and therapists working with families to provide individual programs in a variety of preschool settings.
Teachers and therapists can be seen working individually or in a small group in the classroom, the
playground, or around the snack, art or sensory table helping children function as independently as
possible while gaining new skills. In addition to direct services therapist also consult with parents and other
classroom team members on issues relating to the child’s current and future therapeutic and educational
needs. Communication among all team members is stressed as the best way to maintain a consistent
approach to each child and to keep each team member involved in all areas of the child’s development.
When a child is first enrolled at Nisonger, the team will collect information in an effort to get to know the
child. They will read evaluations, interview parents or other family members, and assess each child
educationally and functionally. Therapists and teachers will use this information to contribute to the
development of each child’s individual plan whether it may be an Individual Educational Plan (IEP) or an
Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP) for children under the age of three years. The team will work in
conjunction with your service coordinator or school district representative.
Each therapist and teacher has an area of expertise, an area they are most knowledgeable in. The following
is a description of each Nisonger team member and their field of expertise.
Early Childhood Educator is trained in child development, setting up environments, and classroom
management. An Early Childhood Educator or teacher plans lessons to meet the needs of the children and
challenge them to grow while giving them opportunity to become proficient in each newly learned skill.
Our early childhood educators are licensed with the state.
Occupational Therapists work with children whose abilities to function effectively in the classroom or
home are lessened because of concerns with eating, dressing, toileting, manipulation of objects, writing or
scissor skills, visual perceptual skills, or sensory-motor activities.
Physical Therapists assess and treat movement dysfunction, for the primary purpose of promoting optimal
health. A physical therapist can provide information regarding the best positions and equipment for
enhancing skills related to sitting, standing, and moving as well as activity ideas to help develop these skills.
Speech/Language Pathologist address the following areas: receptive language (understanding what is
said), expressive language (how one communicates), oral motor skills, hearing, voice and fluency skills,
social interactions and forms of augmentative or alternative communication.
Screenings for Vision and Hearing: are scheduled each year. Screenings are another way to assess and
monitor our children. Screening results will be shared with parents. If a screening shows a need for follow
up parents will be advised where they may find the support they need. Screenings do not take the place of
regular medical care.
Classroom Para-educators are certified to work with teachers and other professional practitioners in
carrying out classroom or therapeutic activities.
Research and Intervention Programs: Families may choose not to have their child participate in any
research activity at any time. Trainees from graduate programs at Nisonger frequently provide additional
educational, therapeutic, and/or medical services in the ECE. Contact Sara Thiessen if you have any
questions regarding these programs or activities.
12
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
Children Birth through Two
Interdisciplinary teams, led by the family, develop Individualized Family Service Plans for children birth
through two which outline the child’s current level of functioning and the family’s priorities, concerns,
and outcomes related to enhancing the development of the child. All families are supported by a
Service Coordinator to assist in facilitating and monitoring the IFSP.
Early Intervention Specialists coordinate the classroom-based services and lead the Nisonger team of
specialists, therapists and family members to help develop goals that are included in the IFSP.
The Early Intervention Specialist is responsible for the Department of Education requirement to discuss
transition into regular or special needs preschool. In the six months prior to the child’s third birthday,
with written parent permission, the child’s school district is notified of the child’s placement at
Nisonger. At that time, a multi-factored evaluation is completed by the school district and Nisonger
staff and an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is written if the child qualifies for special education
services. A child determined ineligible for an IEP is no longer eligible to receive services at Nisonger
ECE.
Any child determined ineligible for services is permitted to remain at Nisonger until the end of each
quarter. If there is a peer position available, the family may fill out an application.
Individualized Educational Plan (IEP)
Children Three through Five
The Individual Education Plan or IEP is a blueprint of the services and goals for each student enrolled in
a preschool or school age program and receiving services for special needs. It is developed with the
involvement of parents/guardians, the teacher, a school district representative, and any other
appropriate persons, including therapists. Each participant’s input is necessary to develop a
comprehensive program, which will meet the student’s needs. Parent/guardian participation is
particularly important, and the meetings are scheduled at parent convenience. Special scheduling
arrangements and /or interpreter services will be provided upon request to facilitate parental
participation.
Parent Participation and Rights
Parent/Family Participation
The value of parent/guardian participation in the development and implementation of a child's
educational program cannot be emphasized enough. Therefore, the parents/guardians are provided
with many opportunities to become involved. We encourage your active participation throughout your
child’s enrollment with us. As all children grow older, their circle of contact also grows. Initially, the
baby’s world is limited to parents and family; we encourage parents to come routinely to the infant
class when possible. As the child ages, other children and adults become increasingly important.
However, contact with the child’s class remains an important part of the toddler and preschool years.
Many parents are interested in working in their child’s class. We encourage ongoing family
involvement in our Early Childhood Education program. If you are interested in participating in our
program in any way, please contact your child’s teacher or the ECE office.
13
Every effort will be made to schedule conferences at times convenient to the parent/guardian and
interpreters will be provided upon request to enable complete participation. All conferences provide a
forum for an exchange of information and ideas, which is vital in developing a comprehensive program
for the child. Parents/guardians are also encouraged to request conferences at any time that they
determine a need.
Teachers, specialists, and other school personnel will contact parents/guardians regularly to share
information about children's progress. Parents/guardians are encouraged to do the same.
Parents/guardians or eligible enrollees have the right to inspect records kept on children in FCBDD
programs. Interpretation or copies of these records will also be provided as needed under the
provisions outlined under Parent/Client Rights under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and
the Education of the Handicapped Act cited later in this section of the Parent Handbook.
Due Process and Procedural Safeguards
The Department of Special Education of the State of Ohio, in compliance with the mandates of Public
Law 94-142 and Ohio Law, has issued standards establishing a continuum of parental or child grievance
options. Any parent who disagrees with the decision of the Franklin County Board Developmental
Disabilities staff regarding how their child can be best supported may request a placement review
meeting with their local school district. If parents object to the decision rendered by the local school
district Superintendent, they may refer the matter to the State Board of Education which will appoint
an independent hearing officer to review the case. Further appeals are available to parents directly to
the State Board of Education and beyond that to the Court of Common Please in the County of
residence.
More detailed information regarding the parents' rights in the grievance procedure may be obtained
from the Intake Coordinator of the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities or from the
local school district in which the child resides. Every effort is made by the FCBDD staff to recommend
placement of each child in the educational environment considered to be the "least restrictive" and to
include and support the rights of parents in the placement decision-making process.
Parent/Client Rights Under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Education of the
Handicapped Act
The notice, published annually in the Parent Handbook, explains the rights of parents and eligible
enrollees under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act and the Education of the Handicapped
Act with respect to records maintained by the agency and we herein outline the agency's procedures
to afford these rights.
All parents of children ages 2 1/2 and older should receive a copy of the State Model Policies and
Procedures Parent Handbook, "Whose Idea Is This?"
Definition of Educational Records
"Educational records" means, with certain exceptions as listed below, those records, files, documents,
and other materials which contain information directly related to an enrollee and which are
maintained by any unit of the agency. The following categories of information are not considered to
be "educational records:"
a. Records made by agency personnel, which are in the sole possession of the maker and are
not accessible or revealed to any other person.
14
b. Records on an enrollee who is 18 years of age or older, which are created or maintained by
a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist, or other recognized professional or paraprofessional
acting in a his/her professional or paraprofessional capacity, or assisting in that capacity,
and which are created, maintained, or used only in connection with the provision of
treatment to the enrollee, and are not available to anyone other than persons providing
such treatment; however, such records can be personally reviewed by a physician or other
appropriate professional of the enrollee's choice. For purpose of this policy, "treatment"
does not include remedial education activities or activities which are part of the program of
instruction.
Location of Educational Records
The Franklin County Board does not maintain educational records in any one central office. Nisonger
ECE Educational Records are maintained in the ECE Office and are returned to the FCBDD when the
child leaves Nisonger.
Questions regarding the location of individual enrollee records should be
directed to the ECE Office.
Right to Inspect and Review
Parents and their representatives have the right to inspect and review all educational records which
are collected, maintained, or used by the agency, without unnecessary delay and before any meeting
regarding an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or hearing related to the identification, evaluation, or
placement of their child. The permission and consent required of parents, and the rights accorded to
parents, transfer to the enrollee upon attainment of the enrollee's eighteenth birthday.
Procedures for Inspection and Review
Requests by parents and eligible enrollees must be made separately to each unit or office maintaining
records. Requests must be made in writing on forms provided by the appropriate unit or office. That
unit or office shall respond to the request within a reasonable period of time, in no event later than 45
days after the request was made. Information contained in educational records will be fully explained
and interpreted to parents and/or eligible enrollees by agency personnel assigned to, and designated
by, the appropriate unit or office.
*Subject to change without notice: fee may be waived in cases of financial hardship.
Amendment of Educational Records
a. Parents are eligible enrollees who believe that information contained in the educational
records is inaccurate, misleading, or in violation of the privacy or other rights of the enrollee
may request that the agency amend the records.
b. Such a request shall be made in writing to the keeper of records and shall include a
statement of the reason(s) for the request. The request shall become a part of the record.
Within 10 days of receiving such a request, the keeper of records shall notify the parent or
eligible enrollee shall have the right to appeal this decision to the Superintendent. Appeals
shall be in wiring and submitted to the Superintendent within 10 days of the parents' or
enrollee's notification of the decision of the keeper of the records. The appeal shall be
considered and a decision rendered in writing within a reasonable period of time, but in no
event later than 45 days after the appeal was filed.
15
Right to a Records Review
a.
The agency shall, on request, provide a records review in accordance with Special
Education Standard 3201-15-16-D-4 in order to allow the challenge of the contents of an
enrollee's educational records to insure that information in the educational records of
the enrollee is not inaccurate, misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or
other rights of enrollees.
b.
If, as a result of the review, it is decided that the information is inaccurate, misleading,
or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of enrollees, the agency shall
amend the educational records of the enrollee accordingly and so inform the parent(s)
of the enrollee of the eligible enrollee in writing.
c.
If, as a result of the review, it is decided that the information is not inaccurate,
misleading, or otherwise in violation of the privacy or other rights of the enrollees, the
parent(s) or eligible enrolled shall be informed of the right to place in the educational
records and/or to set forth any reasons for disagreeing with the decision of the agency.
d.
Any explanation placed in the educational records of the enrollee under paragraph (c) of
this section shall: 1) Be maintained by the agency as part of the educational records of
the enrollee as long as the record or contested portion thereof is maintained, and 2) If
the educational records of the enrollee or the contested portion thereof are disclosed
by the agency to any party, the explanation shall also be disclosed to that party.
Consent for Release
Written consent must be obtained from parents/guardian or eligible enrollees for the release of
educational records. This consent must specify the records to be released, the reasons for their
release, and the names of persons to whom the records are to be released. If desired, a copy of the
records may be sent to the parent(s). The request will be made part of the record. The requirement
for written consent does not apply to the following:
• Officials, including teachers but excluding assistants/aides, of the Franklin County Board of
DD who are employed to provide and/or administer a direct service to enrollees and who
have legitimate educational interest in enrollees by way of professional duties performed
which involve planning, administering, and/or assessing services provided enrollees;
• Officials of other schools or school systems in which an enrollee intends to enroll, upon
condition that the enrollee's parent(s) or eligible enrollees be provided, upon request, a
copy of the record desired and have an opportunity for a hearing to challenge the content
of the record. The Board, on request, forwards educational records to a school in which an
enrollee seeks or intends to enroll;
• Federal and State agencies in connection with an enrollee's application for, or receipt of,
financial aid;
• Authorized representatives of (I) the Comptroller General of the United States, (II) the
Secretary of HEW, (III) an administrative head of an educational agency (as defined in
Section 409 of the Public Law 93-380), or (IV) State educational authorities, under the
conditions set forth in paragraph (3) of Sec. 438 of Public Law 93-380;
• Organizations conducting studies for, or on behalf of, educational agencies or institutions
for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering
student aid programs, and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a
manner as not to permit the personal identification of enrollees and/or their parents by
persons other than such organizations, and such information will be destroyed when no
longer needed for the purpose for which it was conducted;
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•
•
•
•
•
Accrediting organizations in order to carry out their accrediting functions;
Parent(s) of a dependent child such as defined in Section 152 of the internal Revenue Code
of 1954;
Subject to regulations of the Secretary of HEW in connection with an emergency,
appropriate persons, if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the
health or safety of the enrollee or other persons;
Information furnished in compliance with judicial order, or pursuant to any lawfully issued
subpoena, upon condition that parents and the enrollee are notified in writing when
possible of all such orders or subpoenas in advance of compliance therewith;
Requests for Directory Information.
Directory Information
The Franklin County Board of DD has designated the following information about enrollees as directory
(public) information: a)
Name
d)
Date of Birth
b)
Address
e)
Unit of Enrollment
c)
Telephone
f)
Dates of Attendance
Parents and/or eligible enrollees have the right to have this directory information withheld from the
public if they so desire. Each parent and/or eligible enrollee who desires directory information to be
withheld shall so indicate in writing to the ECE Coordinator.
Complaints
Any parent and/or eligible enrollee who has reason to believe the FCBDD is not complying with the
Rights and Privacy Act should inform the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Office, Department of
Health, Education, and Welfare, 330 Independence Avenue S.W., Washington, D.C. in writing.
Safeguards
The Intake Coordinator shall assume responsibility for insuring the confidentiality of all personally
identifiable information maintained by the FCBDD. He/she shall ensure that all persons using
personally identifiable information receive instruction regarding record keeping policies and
procedures. He/she shall maintain a list, open for public inspection, of the names and positions of all
employees who may have access to personally identifiable information.
Note: If you have a question or concern about your rights and safeguards, you may call:
Ohio Department of Education Ombudsman @ (614) 728-6699 or 1-888-222-4173
Ohio Department of DD @ 1-800-231-5872
Ohio Legal Rights Service @ (614) 466-7264 or 1-800-282-9181
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Nisonger Policies and Procedures
Abuse/Neglect
Professional staff is required by law to report suspected instances of abuse or neglect. Generally, the staff
person observing them brings suspicious physical injuries or conditions to the attention of the teacher,
coordinator, or doctor. The coordinator is required to conduct a preliminary investigation, which would
typically involve the team contacting the student’s parents or guardian. In instances where reasonable
explanations cannot be provided or obtained, the staff, fulfilling their legal responsibility may decide to
report the situation to Franklin County Children’s Services and/or Service Coordination Services. Although
we are not by law required to inform parents/ guardians/providers of these referrals, every attempt will be
made to notify parents of such actions. Parents/ guardians/ providers are also encouraged to send notes or
to call the coordinator in the event that something unusual occurs within the home to create injury or
situations which will most probably lead the school to follow the steps outlined above.
Attendance
If your child needs to be absent from school we request that you follow these guidelines:
* Contact your child’s bus driver at (614) 475-5910
* Contact the Nisonger ECE at (614) 292-9605
Children benefit most from a classroom when his/her attendance is regular. The early education staff will
make every effort to maintain your child’s space in class in the event that a child has an extended, excused
absence. However, if after 10 days, the parent does not indicate that the child will resume regular
attendance, the space cannot be guaranteed. If your child is to be absent, both the school and the bus
driver should be informed. When the child returns to school an excuse written by the doctor, for example;
communicable diseases, hospitalizations or surgeries, may be required.
Bus drivers turn in attendance sheet to the office upon arrival. If a child is absent and the driver cannot
account for the child’s absence and the family does not call the program, a designated person will attempt
to contact the family to inquire about the child’s absences. This procedure is in compliance with the
Missing Child Law. If unexcused or unexplained absences exceed 10 days in a three-week period, the
coordinator will contact the family. If there is no response from the parents with three repeated attempts
by the coordinator either by phone or mail, the class placement for the enrollee will be terminated.
Missing Children Act
The Franklin County Board of DD and the Nisonger ECE support activities that may locate and identify a
missing child. Therefore, efforts will be made by the school to identify possible missing children and to
notify the proper persons or agencies. School records from the most recently attended school and a copy
of the birth certificate or comparable certificate will be obtained as part of these efforts. It is extremely
important that parents or persons responsible for the student provide the school with a current address as
well as home, work, and emergency telephone numbers. It is equally important that the school is
contacted if a child is absent for any reason.
Changes
It is necessary that the school be notified any time there is a change in the student’s situation. This
includes a change of address, home telephone number, parent/guardian’s telephone number at home or
work, medication, health status, child care provider, doctor or anything else which may effect the student’s
performance or the school’s ability to obtain or maintain contact with the family. A change in marital
status, foster placement or adoption status will require proof of custody.
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Clothing and Personal Belongings
Children should come to school dressed for active and sometimes messy play. We ask that each child keep
an extra set of clothing at school to be used if any accidents should occur. Please label all clothing with
your child’s name to avoid loss and confusion with other’s clothing. During cold weather, it is wise to label
all outerwear, coat, gloves, hat and scarf. Classrooms will go outside occasionally during the colder months
to experience different seasons. Please make sure your child has the proper clothing available. Children
should bring only extra clothing, diapers and wipes to school. All other personal items should be left at
home.
Cancellations and Early Dismissals
Nisonger ECE is closed for inclement weather when Franklin County Board of DD is closed. Listen to the
following local television stations ABC, NBC, and CBS or local AM radio WNCI (920), WCOL (1230), WTVN
(610), WBNS (1460) or FM station WNCI (98.7) for closings. Nisonger ECE will NOT be announced you need
to listen for Franklin County Board of DD. You will be notified if poor weather will bring children home
early before buses depart Nisonger. Please make sure someone is available to receive your child when the
bus arrives at your home.
Emergency Procedures
• An Incident Report will be completed when an accident or injury occurs or when an incident requires
administration of first aid. The parent of the child will receive one copy of this report, and the original
given to the Coordinator (who will file in office file).
• In cases of EMERGENCIES involving children or adults, the “Nisonger ECE Emergency” procedures will
be implemented. All staff are trained in these emergency procedures and procedures posted in each
classroom. The parent/guardian will be notified by phone as promptly as possible.
• If the parent cannot be reached to accompany or meet the child at the hospital, every effort will be
made to have an adult that the child knows and is comfortable with, accompany the child. An incident
report will be written and distributed.
• In DENTAL EMERGENCIES, dental first aid can be administered by the dental clinic staff on the third
floor of Nisonger. Please complete the Dental Emergency Authorization form in your packet. As in all
minor or serious incidents, an "Incident Report" will be written and sent to the parents, and parents
notified immediately of serious accidents.
Excursions/Field Trips
No student is permitted to leave the school grounds without written permission from the parents/guardian.
However, during the course of his/her school program, the student may be presented with the opportunity
for field trips. This would include walking trips to local facilities (stores, parks or restaurants) or more
distant facilities requiring that the student be transported. In order to expedite the process of obtaining
permission, parents/guardians will be requested to sign a release form entitled Permission and Release
Form for Excursion/Field Trips, which grants the student permission to participate. This permission is good
for one school year.
The parents/guardians will be notified each time an excursion is planned off OSU campus and may deny
participation in spite of the signed permission form. No student will be allowed to go on a field trip without
a signed release form from the parent/guardian.
Each child will wear an identification tag, which includes the center name, center address and phone
number, child’s first name and teacher’s name. Emergency Medical Authorization forms and basic first aid
equipment will accompany children on field trips.
During the summer program and occasionally during the regular school year, the Nisonger ECE will provide
opportunities for water play outside.
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Medical Information
Illness
If your child is ill and will not be attending school, the school and bus driver should be contacted.
Should your child develop a contagious illness or acute health problem during the school year please
notify the teacher and bus driver immediately.
If your child becomes ill at school, the parent or guardian will be notified and is responsible for picking
the child up from school. If the child has been exposed to a communicable disease at school, the
school will notify the parent/ guardian. Diseases tend to be most communicable in the 24-48 hours
before symptoms appear. Because of this, there are always the risks your child will be exposed to a
communicable disease before you are notified. All children and adults working in the classroom are
encouraged to practice good hand washing habits.
Immunizations
No child shall be admitted to a school program operated by the Franklin County Board of DD without
verification that the child has been or is in the process of being immunized against the following:
diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, poliomyelitis, rubella, mumps, haemophilus influenza, Hepatitis B, and
chick pox by a method of immunization approved by the Department of Health in accordance with the
Ohio Revised Code.
Required Minimum Immunizations
DtaP – Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis
3 doses of DtaP are required, with a 4th dose given 6months after the 3rd dose. A booster (5th dose)
is given at 4-6 years.
Hib - Haemophilus Influenza
3 doses of Hib are required, with a booster (4th) dose at 15 –18 months.
IVP – Polio
3 doses with a (4th) booster dose at 4 – 6 years.
HepB – Hepatitis B
3 doses of HepB.
MMR – Measles, Mumps, Rubella
One (1) dose after 12 months, with a (2nd) booster at 4 – 6 years.
Varicella – chicken pox vaccine
One (1) dose at or after 12 months.
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“In the Process”
“In the Process” of being immunized is defined as follows: Having at least one dose of the required
immunizations. Students are to be given subsequent doses required for immunization at the
prescribed intervals, with written verification submitted to the school.
Any required immunization shall be waived if a physician certifies in writing that such immunization is
contraindicated.
Immunizations may also be waived for religious and good-cause reasons. Parents must sign a form
stating this. Should there be a confirmed case of an illness that the child is not immunized against, that
child shall be excluded from school for the duration of the outbreak.
Students who enter school and are “in the process” of obtaining required immunizations, as stated, are
required to receive the remaining doses of the prescribed vaccines for immunizations at the properly
spaced intervals, and to provide written verification of immunization to school. Children would be
medically suspended from school should this not occur.
Medical Evaluation
Enrollment procedures require all students to have a complete medial evaluation prior to entry into
the school program. The medial evaluation or physical is to be current within six month prior to
placement in the school program.
For those children continuing in the school program, medical evaluations are required to be updated
every year. You will be notified two months prior to your child’s medical form expiring. It is the
responsibility of the family or guardian to make arrangements for annual examinations and to have the
medical form completed by a licensed physician. The completed forms should be returned to the
secretary at the Nisonger Center ECE.
Medication
Because the Nisonger ECE program does not have a nurse or medical staff, it is important to make
every effort to administer medication on a schedule which does not require school administration. If
other arrangements must be made for the child to attend the program, please contact the program
coordinator to discuss the medication needs of the child.
IMPORTANT: At no time is medication to be brought to school in purses, pockets, back packs, etc.
“Medication” includes prescription and NON-PRESCRIPTION medications, salves, tablets, etc., including
Tylenol, diaper rash ointments , lip salves, and cough drops. This policy is designed to ensure the
safety of children on the bus and at school.
If medication must accompany the child to school, even if it will not be administered at school, the
teacher, bus driver and program coordinator must be contacted in advance to inform them that
medication will be accompanying the child (i.e., to go with the child to respite care services). The
medication must be handed directly to the driver and from the driver or parent directly to an ECE staff
member who will secure the medication in the ECE offices until the child leaves. When the child
leaves, the medication will again be given to the bus driver, who will directly give the medication to the
responsible adult who takes the child from the bus.
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Admission Recommendations for Persons who are HIV Positive
Based on current evidence, casual person – to – person contact as would occur among children and
staff poses no risk in the transmission of AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). Individuals
who are HIV positive should be allowed to attend FCBDD schools, provided:
1. the health status of the individual, as determined by his/her physician allows participation in
regular activities.
2. the child behaves within “acceptable” limits (i.e., does not bite other individuals or exhibit
other violent behaviors): although very unlikely, significant human bites may inoculate trace
amounts of blood directly into the bloodstream.
3. the child does not have open sores or skin eruptions that cannot be covered.
The decision to enroll an individual who is HIV positive will be made on a case-by-case basis by a team
appointed by the FCBDD Superintendent. Members will include, but not be limited to the following:
the agency’s Medical Consultant, an FCBDD Board Member, an Assistant Superintendent or School
Administrator, an agency Nurse, a Behavior Manager, and a guardian/provider. The decision regarding
admission into a program operated by the Franklin County Board of DD shall be made after a careful
analysis of the individual’s behavior, neurologic development, physical condition and expected
interaction with others.
Observation Booths
Each classroom at Nisonger has an observation room through which parents, students, and perspective
families may observe the classroom activities. We ask that parents limit observation when the
observation room is needed for training and instruction.
Phone Calls
The teachers and therapist can be reached at (614) 292-9605. If a call is received during class time the
secretary will take a message so the call can be returned when the children leave. Only emergency
calls will be forwarded to the classrooms during class time.
Pick-Up Authorization
Children will be released ONLY to authorized persons as indicated, in writing, by the child’s parent or
guardian on the Parent Authorization form.
Pictures
Students will be photographed or videotaped for internal programs related to purposes such as
behavior management intervention and documentation, teacher feedback, portfolio assessment and
parent information. Specific written consent is not required for these purposes.
Photographs or videotapes are occasionally used to develop professional training materials and to
increase public awareness of training programs for children with developmental disabilities. Written
permission for these activities will be sought from parents.
Visitors
All visitors should report to the office in Room 275 and sign in at the front desk before entering the
classroom area and obtain proper identification. Visitors must also sign out at the front desk upon
leaving.
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Transportation and Parking
Transportation for eligible children (those within catchment areas as determined by FCBDD) is
provided at no charge through the Franklin County Board of Mental Retardation and Developmental
Disabilities. A Transportation Enrollee Information Sheet (TA-28) needs to be completed when the
following conditions exist:
a) initial entry into the program and prior to the beginning of the school year;
b) change of home address, even though the pick up and drop remain the same.
Parents can also choose to transport children in their own vehicles. An Own Transport Enrollee
Information Sheet is completed for these children.
The FCBDD must be notified when a child will not be riding the bus. You must call the number your
child's bus driver gives you. In addition, the teacher at Nisonger must be notified in case of absence.
These two departments handle attendance separately.
The following transportation policies are those of the FCBDD.
BUS TRANSPORTATION
Boarding and Leaving the Bus
1.
Students should be fully dressed and ready to get on the bus when it arrives in the
morning.
2.
The bus will stop, sound the horn, and wait approximately 45 seconds. If you or the
student have not made an appearance by that time, the bus will drive on.
3.
It is the parent's responsibility to provide assistance to the student in boarding or
leaving the bus if the student is unable to do so independently. The driver is not
permitted to leave the bus for this purpose. Although it is not mandatory, parents may
board the bus to assist with loading or unloading.
4.
Children must come from the residence. No child will be accepted from a vehicle.
5.
You or a person responsible for the child should be home when your child returns from
school. Due to student absenteeism, the bus frequently will arrive at your home earlier
than expected. There should be someone at your home at this time. If the driver finds
no one home to accept the child, the driver will attempt to deliver the child to your
emergency contact.
Contacting Transportation
Drivers will stop at your home on the days your child is scheduled to attend school.
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1.
When you have a change of address, or phone number, or if the student is dropped off
at a location other than the designated address, you must also notify the Nisonger ECE
Office by calling 292-9605 as well as the transportation office (475-5910).
2.
Request for temporary changes should be made at least one day prior to the date
needed. If the change is on the same route, Transportation Department will try to
accommodate. The pickup and drop off addresses are required to be on the same
catchment area (AM or PM), as well as on the same route.
3.
Do not ask drivers to relay verbal messages pertaining to school business. Call the ECE
Office instead. The driver will deliver written messages.
Change of Address
If you are planning to move, please contact the Transportation office (475-5910) and the Nisonger ECE
office (292-9605) as soon as you have decided upon the moving date. Early notification of an address
change will allow time to arrange for transportation from the new address and will minimize the
number of days the student will be absent from school. Transportation needs notification of a home
address change even when the sitter or pick-up/drop-off point remains the same, because mailings are
sent to the home, not the sitters.) Moves requiring a change in school location may take considerably
longer to implement. It is possible that your move may necessitate a change of class or program. For
example: from AM to PM, or from Nisonger to FCBDD program.
Riding the Bus
The following guidelines are designed to make the transportation of the student as safe and
comfortable as possible. They are to be strictly adhered to.
1. Children are not to have in their possession items that may cause harm while minimally supervised
on the bus, such as sharp utensils, hard candy, small items that they can swallow and choke.
2. No food is to be eaten on the bus.
3. Children boarding the bus must be fully clothed including shoes and socks.
4. Animals are prohibited on the bus.
5. Items sent to school must be placed in a sealed envelope or paper bag clearly marked with the
student's name, bus number, and the name of the person to whom it is to be delivered. Drivers
cannot be responsible for items sent to school in any other fashion.
6. No unauthorized passengers shall be transported on the school bus. Parents/providers are
permitted to ride the bus provided there is room.
7. All children will be returned to the same location at which they boarded the bus. Arrangements
must be made with transportation in order for a child to be delivered to a location other than
where he/she boarded.
8. If the child is staying with a sitter and is to be picked up and dropped off there, the Transportation
Office must be provided with the name, address, and phone number of the sitter.
9. Bus changes cannot be made for students staying with sitters or Respite Care providers for less than
two (2) weeks.
10. Medication is typically not administered at Nisonger (see ECE Medical policies). Under no
circumstances are students permitted to carry medication during the bus ride.
Safety Vests and Car Seats
• Safety vests and car seats are required, to provide for the safety of enrollees while they are
passengers on FCBDD buses. Adaptive equipment remains the property of FCBDD.
• The decision as to whether your child rides the bus in a vest/car-seat is based on their physical
and safety needs. Those required to wear safety vests include enrollees who, when seated with
their backs against the seat cushion back, are unable to reach the floor with their feet (safety
vests for these passengers must be anchored with a cam strap system).
• It will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian to insure that the safety vest is on the child
and secured properly prior to boarding the bus. If these conditions are not met, then the child
will not be transported on the bus for that particular session.
• The safety vest will be the responsibility of the parent/guardian during the times and days that
the child is not in school.
• The vest is washable.
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Nisonger OSU Parking:
• Parents may drop off children during school hours in section A (bus cones back to corner)
with Parent Parking Permit visible on the dashboard. Please limit drop off time to 5
minutes in order for other parents to use this space.
• Parents may also unload at loading dock (section D). This space is not wheelchair
accessible, and assistants will not be available in this area to help. Limit parking to
unloading and loading only.
• Parents may park at Dodd Hall meters ONLY if you display parent permit in window AND
put money in parking meter, otherwise you may receive a parking ticket.
• Even when buses are not visible, do not park in bus zones (crosswalk back to Preschool
Permit sign/cones; i.e., two bus lengths from crosswalk). Buses arrive/depart all day and
are only allowed to unload children from buses in this space.
• Do not park on the corner curve - emergency vehicles cannot turn the corner if you do.
You will receive a ticket and may be towed in order to make room for emergency vehicles.
• You may arrange pick-up and drop off with your teacher (8:55-9:05, 11:25-11:30, 1:151:25, 3:45-3:50). Pull up temporarily in sections C or A. Classroom assistants will wait in
the preschool entrance lobby and look for you.
• Do not park across the street by the park. Buses and other cars cannot pass. This creates a
safety hazard for the children.
• Parents may park in the parking garage across the street. The secretary in room 275 will
give you a visitor's pass for the garage so you do not have to pay.
• Do not park in the 2 “Handicapped Permit” spaces. These are registered for OSU personnel
working in Dodd Hall.
• If you have parked legally and received a ticket, we will be happy to discuss having it
waived. If you are parked illegally or do not display your Parent Pass on the dashboard,
OSU Traffic and Parking may ticket you (fines are usually $10 to $30) or tow your car ($60
to $80). Unfortunately, there is limited parking at OSU for everyone.
 You can also visit OSUMC website at http://www.medicalcenter.osu.edu for more current
information on parking and construction.
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26
NISONGER ECE
CALENDAR
School Year 2011-2012
AUGUST 2011
Monday, August 22nd
Tuesday, August 23rd
Wednesday, August 24th
ECE Staff Preparation/Developmental Day
ECE Staff Preparation/Developmental Day
ECE Program Service Day
ECE Program Service Day
Ice Cream Social
Thursday, August 25th
Friday, August 26th
Monday, August 29th
Tuesday, August 30th
Wednesday, August 31st
ECE Program Service Day
Classes Begin/Orientation Day
Classes Begin/Orientation Day
Regular Class Schedule Begins
Classes Closed
Classes Closed
Parent Visitation/No Trans.
Parent Visitation/No Trans.
5:30 – 7:00 PM
AT NISONGER
Parent Visitation/No Trans.
Consult Schedule
Consult Schedule
Consult Schedule
SEPTEMBER 2011
Monday, September 5th
LABOR DAY
Nisonger Closed
OCTOBER 2011
Monday, October 10th
Friday, October 14th
Parent/Teacher Conference Day
Staff Preparation/Development Day
Classes Closed
Classes Closed
NOVEMBER 2011
Friday, November 11th
Thursday, November 25th
Friday, November 26th
Veteran’s Day
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving Recess
Nisonger Closed
Nisonger Closed
Nisonger Closed
DECEMBER 2011
December 22nd – January 2nd
WINTER RECESS
Classes Closed
JANUARY 2012
Tuesday, January 3
Classes Resume
rd
Monday, January 16
Dr. Martin Luther King Day
th
Nisonger Closed
FEBRUARY 2012
Monday, February 13th
Strategic Planning Day
Classes Closed
MARCH 2012
March 19 - March 23
Monday, March 26th
th
rd
Spring Recess
Classes Resume
Classes Closed
APRIL 2012
Friday, April 6th
Staff Preparation/Development Day
Classes Closed
MAY 2012
Monday, May 28
Thursday, May 31st
th
Memorial Day
Last Day of Classes
Nisonger Closed
JUNE 2012
Friday, June 1st
Parent/Teacher Conference Day
Classes Closed
Revised 12-12-11
If make-up days are required for calamity days, they will be scheduled after the school-year ends, beginning on June 4,
2012, unless otherwise determined by the FCBDD due to extenuating circumstances.
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