Question 1

What is Emerson Academy?

Accepted Answer

Emerson Academy is a private, nonprofit child development center serving children of all abilities ages 6 weeks to 12 years. Each of our classes consists of children with varying abilities, from typically developing children, or children with above-average abilities, to children with special needs. Our child-centered program emphasizes hands-on, literacy-based learning opportunities that promote a lifelong love of learning. Children receive real-world experiences through interactions with small farm animals, gardening, and Music Together. Activities are tailored to meet each child’s unique needs and stages of development.

Question 2

What is the monthly tuition?

Accepted Answer

Monthly tuition is broken down by age groups and abilities/special needs. Please allow our program director to discuss rates with your family. Tuition is due monthly by the 1st day of the month in which your child will be enrolled at Emerson Academy.  There is a 10% sibling discount, applied to the tuition of the oldest child.  Part-time options are available for children aged 1-12 years.

Question 3

How do I register my child?

Accepted Answer

Our registration forms are available on our website at www.emerson-academy.com or you can stop by the center and pick up a registration packet. There is an initial $50 registration fee. In the event that there are no vacancies in your child’s age group we can add your child to our waiting list. All forms must be complete (including a health statement from your child’s physician) and turned in before a child may begin attending.

Question 4

What are the hours of operation?

Accepted Answer

Emerson Academy is open Monday through Friday, from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, all year round. We are closed for the following holidays:
New Year’s Day (January 1st)
President’s Day
Summer Professional Development (1st Friday in May)
Memorial Day
4th of July (or the Monday following)
Labor Day
Fall Professional Development
Columbus Day
Thanksgiving Day and the day after
The week of Christmas

Question 5

What curriculum does Emerson Academy use?

Accepted Answer

Emerson Academy uses Creative Curriculum® in our classrooms for infants, toddlers, preschool and Pre-K. This comprehensive, research-based program integrates instruction across developmental domains and early learning disciplines. In addition to classroom learning, the children will have the opportunity to participate in various enrichment programs including music, sign language, gardening, and animal care. Music Class with Ms.Amber is also offered for an additional $25/month/family, as well as a music-based bilingual Spanish class that Amber offers for an additional $40/month.

Question 6

What are the benefits of inclusive learning?

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that students without disabilities who are educated in inclusive settings have demonstrated improvement in their attitudes toward people unlike themselves. They are more likely to take an increased social responsibility and show greater self-confidence (Staub and Peck, 1995).  Children with disabilities benefit from having typically developing peers as language, social and behavior models.  Inclusive education teaches all children teamwork and how to interrelate and function together with others of different abilities. They learn to value diversity, see the ability of others to contribute, and it gives children a sense of unity (Kids Together, Inc.©).

Question 7

What are the ratios of teachers to children in each age group?

Accepted Answer

The following ratios are standard for each age group at Emerson Academy*:

Caterpillars (6 weeks-18 mos.) – 1:4 (no more than 8 infants)
Ants (11-23 mos.) – 1:6/6 (no more than 12 infants/toddlers)
Butterflies (20-36 mos.)  – 1:6/7 (no more than 14 toddlers)
Bumblebees (2 1/2-4 years) – 1:9 (no more than 16 preschoolers)
Dragonflies (3 1/2-5 years)  – 1:10 (no more than 18 preschoolers)
Fireflies (4-6 years) –  1:10 (no more than 22 preschoolers)
Beetles/Camp Emerson (5-13 years) – 1:10 (with additional support as needed)

*We do offer a lower teacher-child ratio for children with special needs.  An additional hourly fee will be added to tuition rates if one-on-one is needed.

Question 8

What are the qualifications of the teachers?

Accepted Answer

All of our teachers have experience working with children of all ages and abilities.  Many of our teachers have college degrees and/or certifications in fields related to children, such as Education, Psychology,   Social Work, and Child Development. The teachers are trained in child development, first-aid and CPR, and are trained to follow Texas Rising Star guidelines (above and beyond the State Standards) for licensed child care. Each teacher is also trained in unique aspects of working with children with special needs.

Question 9

Does Emerson Academy provide meals?

Accepted Answer

Emerson Academy provides two hot meals and one snack per day.  Each meal will consist of whole grains, fruit/fruit juice, vegetables, and proteins.  An example meal would be turkey sausage with biscuit or chicken Alfredo with veggies.  A snack would be whole grain Cheerios and milk or veggies with ranch dip. Special diets will be accommodated, but the parents are responsible for providing up to date information on dietary needs.  Candy and sugary drinks/sodas will not be served.

Question 10

What services are available for children with special needs?

Accepted Answer

Our highly qualified teachers receive ongoing training on specific methods for working with children of all ability levels.  Lessons are structured to ensure that every child has an opportunity to participate and access the curriculum. Classroom teachers will plan and implement activities based on each child’s individualized education plan and/or behavior plan.  **Speech, Occupational, Behavioral, and Physical therapy services can be arranged through private therapy clinics, local school districts, and/or Early Childhood Intervention providers. Parents/guardians are responsible for arranging these services.

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