Probationary Period and Termination Policy

Upon entering the program, there is a probation period of four weeks for each new child. This allows for a period of adjustment for the child, the family, and the Willie Price staff. If there is difficulty with adjustment, or the child has needs that Willie Price is unable to accommodate, the parents will be consulted and appropriate procedures and referrals offered. These will be presented to parents in writing, and meetings arranged to explore alternatives.

Willie Price University Nursery School retains the right to terminate, at its sole discretion, the enrollment of a child throughout the probationary period. Any decision to discontinue service will occur within the four weeks of entrance into the program unless Willie Price agrees to extend the probationary period in an effort to maintain the child at the school. It may also be necessary to review the placement of a current member within the context of some circumstances listed below. Any termination will be documented in writing, and depending on the issue, parents will be given a reasonable period of time(2-4 weeks) to make alternative arrangements. Reasons for termination include but are not limited to the following:

  1. The purpose of the termination policy is to acknowledge that all children are not ready for group instruction and care at the same age. Some children become emotionally upset for extended amounts of time due to separation or other issues. The resistance on the part of the child will often disappear with maturity. The child may easily enroll a year later without incident. In these cases, during the probation period, we try shortening the child’s day and/or changing the scheduled number of days in an effort to help the child adjust. If the child continues to be upset, Willie Price will make other recommendations for the child.

  2. WPUNS has a developmental approach to child guidance techniques. Our expectations are appropriate for the child’s age and stage of growth. Some children display aggressive or uncooperative behaviors which pose a threat to themselves or others. For the protection of the child and other children, these situations must be addressed quickly. Consultation with the parents and available resources will be offered and utilized. If the child’s behavior to be a safety concern, Willie Price will assist the parents by providing referrals.

  3. Toilet training is sometimes an issue for entering children. WPUNS will work with children who are having difficulty in training but, if during the probation period, progress is not apparent, we ask families to have an alternative care situation available until training has been achieved.
    Willie Price Definition of Potty Trained:
    • A child that has no more than one to two accidents weekly. This includes bowel movements.
    • A child that does not wear “pull-ups” or diapers at any time of day including nap-time. Please note that “pull-ups” and diapers are never allowed at Willie Price.
    • The children must be able to take care of all bathroom needs on their own including wiping.
    • Teachers take children to the bathroom often, but children must be able to verbalize when pottying is necessary.
    • Children must be able to use Willie Price facilities without additional training potties or potty seats.

  4. WPUNS tries to fully orient parents to our program. Philosophy, policies, procedures, and curriculum are explained in depth during pre-enrollment visits and in this Parent Handbook. It is assumed that when a child begins school, the parents are comfortable with WPUNS policies and agree with its philosophy. If it becomes evident that the parents do not agree with WPUNS philosophy, policies, procedures, and/or curriculum, and a resolution is unattainable, WPUNS will require that the family seek a setting that is compatible with their practices.

  5. WPUNS recognizes that some families live apart due to a variety of circumstances. The WPUNS staff is sensitive to the needs of children in these situations and will try to support them. It is also important that the teachers are able to have positive relationships with all the parents interacting with Willie Price. The WPUNS staff sees its role in a partnership with parents, as nurturers andeducators, and feels strongly that teachers and staff should not become involved in any family controversy. WPUNS will provide referrals to assure a resolution of any controversy affecting the operation of Willie Price or the teacher/child/parent relationship.

    WPUNS requires that families living apart work out mutually agreed upon, or have legally provided, plans for their child’s care and that they present these plans to WPUNS in writing. Agreement must be in place so that we may serve the child’s best interests. If the custodial parents cannot agree on the care and treatment of their child, WPUNS cannot accept responsibility for that child until a plan is in place that is acceptable to both the custodial parents and WPUNS. If a written legal resolution is needed, WPUNS requires a document that clearly defines wh o is authorized to make decisions regarding the child’s care and education. WPUNS would then require from the authorized person, a written plan and reasonable procedure to follow regarding the care and treatment of the child before accepting responsibility to care for that child.