21st Century Community Learning Centers FAQ's
1. Can my child participate if I don't volunteer?
Yes, but remember that you can volunteer from home!
You may offer to prepare a dessert for a family event, make phone calls, find other volunteers or respond to surveys or questionnaires. We always welcome your input on what works with the program and suggestions for making it better for the children and the families. We are here to meet your needs.
2. How much does this program cost?
There are meager tuition charges and may be some summer costs.
Currently, the tuition at each center is $10 per week for your first child, $9 for the second child and $8 for each additional child in your family or keeping. Tuition will increase each year as the grant amount decreases to insure that this program will be available in the future. It will never exceed normal after-school care programs. For some summer trips, you may be asked to provide lunch or souvenir money for your child.
3. What do the parents have to do?
We expect parents to abide by our rules, encourage them to volunteer and request participation in family events 4 times a year.
Our family events are a relaxed and fun way to have a meal with your child and other families, to learn how to help your child set and achieve goals, to learn about community agencies that could assist your family and to show your child that she or he is worthy of your time and attention. The events vary
4. What happens if I am late picking up my child?
You may be assessed a fine, as our staff must get home after a long day.
If you are later than 6 pm, there will be a fine of $15 to be paid before the child may attend again. If you are later than 6 pm a second time, your family will lose their slot in the program. If you are much later than 6 pm, we will have your child picked up by the local police and you will have to pick them up at the police station. This is not meant to be "mean." Our staff members report to duty at 7am. Many of them will go on time-and-a-half late in the day. The program does not have the funds for this extra pay, and our staff members need to get home to their families after such a long day. Thank you for your understanding.
5. Who can participate?
Any child in the age-range for the center.
We open our enrollment to age-appropriate students in the county's private schools and to home-schooled students. We have a limited number of slots, so your child may be put on a waiting list. The staff at each school selects the participants based on need, family commitment and time of application. If your child participates, you must participate, too!
6. Who is allowed to pick up my child?
Any person that the parent or guardian lists who presents a valid photo ID.
7. Will my child be able to attend during holidays?
No, the center only operates on days that regular school is in session.
8. Will my child be safe?
We follow all safety regulations of the Elmore County Board of Education.
The 21CCLC centers are all under the supervision of assistant principals who have been instrumental in developing the safety plan for each school. All normal safety procedures are followed, including periodic drills for emergency situations. In addition, we have a "zero tolerance" policy for students who choose to misbehave. Your child will be in a safe, nurturing environment.
9. Will my child have to quit tutoring or gymnastics?
Your child may be involved one day a week in an outside activity, however tuition remains the same.