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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION I – INTRODUCTION
Welcome
Philosophy
Mission Statement
Accreditation
Program Goals
CYSS Regulations
Chain of Command
SECTION II – GETTING STARTED
Eligibility
Registration
Sole/Dual Military Parents
Immunizations
Health Assessments
Sports Physicals
Admission Criteria for Children with Special Needs
Special Needs Process
Waiting List
Program Orientation
SECTION III – FACILITIES AND HOURS OF OPERATION
Child Development Centers
School Age Facilities
Middle School and Teen Program
Family Child Care
Weekends
SECTION IV – FEES AND CHARGES
DoD Fee Policy/Total Family Income
Army Family Covenant Fee Reductions
Registration Fee
Initial Enrollment/Holding Fee
Regular Program Fees
Camp Fees
CYSS Online
Hourly Care
Late Payment Fees (See Section VII, Child Left After Hours)
Late Pick-Up Fees
Refund/Credit Policy
Financial Assistance/Hardship Cases
Non-Payment of Fees
Patron Discounts
Prorating for Vacation (See Section VII, Vacation)
Tax Credit Reports
SECTION V – PROCEDURES
Arrivals and Departures/ Release of Children
Emergency Closures
Personal Toys
SECTION VI – MEAL SERVICE
Child and Adult Care Food Program
Menu
Food Allergies
Infant Food/Formula
Inspections
Meals/Snacks Provided
Meal Schedules (See Section XI)
SECTION VII – POLICIES
Child Left After Hours
Clearing CYSS
Field Trips
Guidance/Discipline
Suspension
Open Door
Touch
Vacation
Withdrawal
SECTION VIII – MEDICAL POLICIES
Basic Care Items
Health
Immunizations
Medication Dispensation
SAS/MST Self Medication
Sick Child/Isolation
SECTION IX – CYSS PERSONNEL AND FCC PROVIDERS
Background Clearances
Staff Identification
Training
SECTION X – MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Safety
Birthdays/Celebrations
Child Abuse and Neglect
Resource and Referral
School Liaison Services
Special Openings
Transportation
Video Surveillance Systems
SECTION XI – PROGRAM SPECIFIC INFORMATION
This section will include the specific information needed for the program or programs your child/ren will be attending i.e. if you have a child in a regular CDC program and SKIESUnlimited you will receive only those program handbooks. We don’t want to give you information that you may not need. All program handbooks are on the blissmwr.com/cys/ website and Parent Central Services can certainly provide any additional information that you may want.
Welcome to the Fort Bliss Child, Youth and School (CYS) Services programs. Whether you are enrolling your child/youth in Child Development Services (Child Development Centers (CDC) and Family Child Care (FCC)), School Age Services (SAS), Middle School and Teen (MST), Youth Sports, the School of Knowledge, Inspiration, Exploration and Skills Unlimited (SKIESUnlimited) or Venturepoint we welcome you and your child/youth into our programs. Our programs are operated in accordance with Fort Bliss policies and Army Regulations. Our goal is to help each child/youth develop to his/her potential. We want to help develop the whole child/youth; positive self-concept, strong emotional well-being, productive social interaction, intellectual and physical growth. We strive to provide a safe environment, enriching experiences and warm, loving care for your children and youth during their stay with us.
This handbook has been developed to outline the policies and procedures to which all CYS Services programs adhere. Additional and more specific information is available for each specific program.
The experience of your child/youth is enhanced through a strong parent and staff relationship. Your questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. We encourage you to participate in the many opportunities offered for parent involvement.
Thank you for permitting us to share with you in providing for the care and nurturing of your child/youth. We look forward to working with you.
Philosophy
Our purpose is to provide quality, affordable child and youth care. We are dedicated to providing safe, healthy environments; positive, enriching learning experiences and loving care for your child.
When you enroll your child(ren) at one of our Ft. Bliss facilities, your family joins your child in new experiences and relationships. All of us have a responsibility to protect the health, safety and well-being of your child.
We want you to establish good relationships with the staff working with your child by spending time in your child’s program. Ask questions about the program and observe the activities. Provide us with the information we need about your child and family so that our programs can provide great care.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to reduce the conflict between unit mission readiness and parental responsibility by offering quality programs and accountability for children and youth in a seamless delivery system comprised of Child and Youth Liaison, Education and Outreach Services (CLEOS), center-based Child Development Centers, quarters-based Family Child Care (FCC) homes, School Age Services (SAS) centers and Middle School and Teen (MS/T) centers. And to meet the tenets of the Army Family Covenant and to provide a full range of child and youth programs.
Accreditation
Fort Bliss child development centers are accredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the school age sites are nationally accredited by the Council On Accreditation (COA). This accreditation assures parents of a commitment to responsive and loving care, trained and competent staff, a safe and healthy environment, and consistent program improvement and quality. We involve the children, families, staff, and community in an open dialogue about the program. Together, we make changes which benefit the whole community. The accreditation process provides that “you”, administration, staff, families, children and the community members are the best people to make the changes that will improve the program.
Program Goals
CYS Services Regulations
To provide consistency in Army CYS Services throughout the U.S. and overseas, all CYS Services programs are required to be in compliance with the following regulations:
Although regulations apply uniformly throughout the Army, commanders have the authority to issue additional policies to meet unique installation needs. CYS Services programs are inspected annually for program compliance.
Chain of Command
If you need some assistance, please address the director and/or assistant director in your child’s program with your concerns. If you need further assistance please contact the following:
CYS Services Coordinator – 915-568-5709
FMWR Director – 915-568-3500
Eligibility
Children (4 weeks through 18 years of age) of active duty personnel, military reserve members, Department of Defense (DoD) civilians, DoD contractors, and military retirees. Children ages 4 weeks thru the summer of their kindergarten year are eligible for care in an FCC home or CDC. Children enrolled in the first thru fifth grades are eligible for FCC and SAS. Youth who have entered the sixth grade and higher would be eligible for the MS&T program.
Annual Registration & Enrollment Policy
Parents must register their child/youth at the Parent Central (PC) Services office prior to receiving services. Initial and annual registration is handled through an appointment system. The PC Services office is located in Bldg 1743, Victory Rd and is managed by the Outreach Services Director, 915-569-5040. Appointments can be made by calling the registration office at 568-4374. For an initial enrollment, enrollment packets can be picked up or printed from our website at blissmwr.com/cys/ to be filled out prior to your appointment date or you can log into CYS Online at https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/blisscyms.html and begin the registration process. The office is open Monday thru Friday, 0700 – 1730 and Saturday 0800-1200. If you are coming from another CYS Services program at another installation when you make your appointment request the administrative assistant import your file from the Child and Youth Management Services (CYMS) server, this will save you some time.
Initial registration takes approximately 30 – 45 minutes. Please be sure to bring the following documentation: valid ID card, child’s/youth’s immunization record, current health assessment if you have one, and current leave and earning statements for all working family members (the LES is not required but could make you eligible for a lower fee category). Immunizations must be up to date in order for your child to begin any of our programs. If your child has a special need additional paperwork is required and must be completed and approved by the Army Public Health Nurse before enrollment into CYS Services programs.
Parents are responsible for making sure all information on their child’s/youth’s paperwork is complete and accurate. There is an annual requirement to re-register before your registration’s expiration date.
If your child is being enrolled in a regular program you will be issued a key fob. You/your youth will be required to swipe your child/youth in with this card whenever you/he use any center.
If during the course of the year, information changes (i.e. child’s Immunizations, phone numbers, addresses, emergency contacts, your employment, spouse’s employment) it is your responsibility to update applicable forms. This can be accomplished by providing the information to the administrative assistant at your child’s/youth’s program or by stopping by the PC Services office. In an emergency situation, accurate information saves valuable time. Failure to update information will result in the expiration/suspension of the child/youth’s pass which will cause a disruption in services provided to you.
Sole/Dual Military Parents
A short term care provider must be furnished to PC Services within 30 days of your registration. FCC has the capability to provide extended care, at no cost to the soldier, for mission related duty. All that is required is an Extended Care Request form, which can be obtained from the FCC staff. Your duty will be verified by an FCC staff member with your chain of command. This service will be paid to the FCC provider via Army Subsidy.
Immunizations
Children’s immunizations must be up to date in order to use any program. If you are requesting a waiver, the waiver must be approved by the Chief of Army Public Health Nursing before care can begin.
Below is a schedule of needed immunizations.
Age |
Needed Immunizations |
2 Months |
Polio, DTaP, HIB, Hep B, Rotavirus, Pneumococcal |
4 Months |
Polio, DTaP, HIB, Hep B, Rotavirus, Pneumococcal |
6 Months |
DTaP, HIB, Pneumococcal |
15 Months |
Hep B, HIB, MMR, Varicella |
18 Months |
Polio, DTaP, Pneumococcal |
2 Years |
Hep A |
30 Months |
Hep A |
6 Years |
DTaP, Polio, MMR, Varicella |
Health Assessment
A child health assessment will be on file for each child/youth. Each child will have a documented health assessment completed within 30 days of registration. Well baby/well child exams or school/athletic physicals documented within the last year can be used in place of admission health assessment if dated, signed, stamped by the health care provider and signed by a parent. Children/youth’s health assessments must be reviewed annually for changes and re-signed by parents. A health assessment signed, dated and stamped by a physician is required every 3 years. If there are any changes in the health of your child/youth a current medical examination will be required by the child/youth’s medical provider. Children/youth with special needs must have a health assessment annually. The health assessment must identify your child/youth’s special need. If your child/youth has an identified special need he/she will be reviewed by the Special Needs Accommodation Process (SNAP) in order to determine the best placement for your child/youth and to inform the program staff/FCC providers of what we need to do for your child/youth during his/her stay in our program.
Sports Physicals
A sports physical is required for youth sports activities. The sports physical must remain current through the season. An enrollment can be completed without a current physical but the child will be unable to attend practice or play in any events until the physical is on file.
Exceptional Family Members - Children With Special Needs
Parents must identify children with special needs at the time of registration.
“Our goal is to reasonably accommodate individuals with special needs in order to integrate them into the program to the extent feasible, given each individual’s limitations”. Each individual must be considered in accordance with the match between the program and the other children/youth in the program. When possible, children/youth with special needs are mainstreamed into regular CYS Services programs. In order to do this, the child/youth must be able to be integrated without requiring a change in the child/youth to staff ratio. Decisions to mainstream a child/youth are handled on a case-by-case basis by a multi-disciplined SNAP team which meets every week. Parents are a vital part of this team. The team meets to determine appropriate placement for the child/youth before and during enrollment in a CYS Services program. Child/youth initially are accepted on a trial basis. During this time the program attendants/FCC providers can determine how the child/youth functions within the program. Again each child/youth is different. The staff’s ability to meet the needs will also determine the days, hours, and amount of time the child/youth can be cared for within the program. Decisions are also made regarding program adaptation and additional training for staff to ensure the child/youth’s needs can be met. Based on the decisions of the SNAP team, children/youth that are a danger to themselves or to other children/youth and/or that are on continuous medical treatment may not be accepted for care in CYS Services programs. The SNAP team has many resources and will make every effort to support parents with child/youth care needs in an appropriate environment. Prior to placement of a child/youth with special needs in CYS Services programs specialized training may be required. Training will be completed no later than 1 week after SNAP unless other emergency situations arise to delay this process.
Program attendants and FCC Providers are trained to plan activities with a purpose in mind. They are trained to know each child/youth and what his or her capabilities are. As with all children/youth enrolled in CYS Services programs, we immediately work on building a relationship with the child/youth so that we can know what works and what doesn't and what skills the child/youth needs to work on. We know if they need active play, if they need space from other children/youth, if we need to have eye contact to ensure good communication or if we need to keep a special eye on them in stressful situations. All of these subtle skills make a difference. We understand that no one knows children/youth as well as their parents. We depend on parents to be the primary trainers and consultants for staff.
All staff members/FCC Providers in CYS Services have training to help them work with those with special needs. They have also been trained in administering medications, First Aid, blood borne pathogens, and CPR. We are prepared to make reasonable accommodations for every child/youth. If a child/youth is denied care, it would be based on careful deliberations by the SNAP team as mentioned above.
Waiting Lists
The goal of CYS Services is to provide each sponsor with a childcare option that meets their needs. Because there are a limited number of full day/weekly spaces in our CYS Services delivery system, it is sometimes necessary for families to be placed on a waiting list. The waiting list period will be different for each program and age group, and may fluctuate due to various factors. The information below explains the different types of waiting lists used and the priority for filling vacant child spaces. A sponsor does not have to be registered with CYS Services to place their child on a waiting list. However it is recommended that the family registers so that when an opening becomes available, the child is ready to start. This is especially true if the child has any special need that requires a physical/documentation from a physician.
Updating Waiting List Applications: In order for sponsors to maintain their status on any waiting list (Immediate care, Preference for Care, Projected Demand); they must contact PC Services every 90 days to confirm their wish to remain on the list for the location/care requested. Failure to do so will automatically drop the patron/child’s name from the waiting list. It is extremely important for sponsors to update PC Services with current information in the event of a move, change of telephone numbers, change of unit or job location, or if you go on leave. PC Services will attempt to contact the sponsor when a space for childcare becomes available. If PC Services is unable to contact the sponsor, then the space will be made available to the next eligible patron on the waiting list.
Priority for CYS Services Care: Priority for care is determined by DoD and Army Regulations 608-10 (AR608-10). Active duty single/dual military, and DoD single/dual working civilians and Wounded Warriors, have priority for full-day care in all CYS Services facilities and programs. Priority is valid only for Immediate Care waiting list, and may be used only once. Priority is assigned until PC Services offers a space in a viable care option, which may or may not be the sponsor’s first preference.
Excess Demand Waiting List: This list contains children who are NOT CURRENTLY ENROLLED in any Army CYS Services operated, affiliated or sponsored child care program. When there are no childcare options available, PC Services will establish an Excess Demand waiting list. Placement on this list is based on sponsor’s priority and the date of application. Once a space is available, the sponsor will be notified and will have twenty-four (24) hours to accept or decline the space offered. If the offered space is a viable childcare option and the sponsor declines the offer, the child’s name will be removed from the excess demand care list and at the sponsor’s request can be placed on the preference for care waiting list based on original application date.
Preference for Care Waiting List: The preference for care waiting list reflects patrons who are receiving care in a viable CYS Service program but prefer a different care option, site or location. A request to be placed on the Preference for Care list may be made at any time while the child remains enrolled in a CYS Service program. The request for care date will be the day the patron requested placement on the Preference for Care List. Sequence on the list is determined solely on the request for Request for Care Date/Time. Once the care is available and the sponsor is offered a space, they will have twenty-four (24) hours to accept the space. If the space is declined, the sponsor’s name will be removed from the Preference for Care list.
Projected Demand Waiting List: The projected demand waiting list is used when a sponsor is
anticipating future childcare needs. Placement on this list helps CYS Services staff to project
community childcare needs. Placement on this list most often applies to expectant parents,
sponsors with children who are inbound to the community, and sponsors with spouses who are seeking employment. Children are removed from this list and placed on the Immediate Care or Preference
for Care waiting list when the child is born, arrives at the installation, or when the sponsor’s spouse
gains employment. Placement on the excess demand list is based on priority and the date of the
original waitlist request.
Waitlist Priorities for Care are as follows:
Program Orientation
At the conclusion of your registration appointment and/or upon enrollment in a regular program you should immediately go to that program for an orientation. Children who need transportation to or from school mustmeet the program assistant/FCC provider who will be providing that transportation at least 24 hours in advance. This is for the safety of your child. If you and your child have not met the program assistant, your child will not be transported and you will be contacted to pick your child up from school.
SECTION III – FACILITIES AND HOURS OF OPERATION
CDC Hours of Operation:
Monday - Friday 0530 – 1800
Logan CDC, Bldg 3500
Located in the Logan housing area at the corner of Ellerthorpe St and Story Rd
Phone: 915-568-3989/4887
Director: 568-3759 Fax: 568-0011
Asst. Directors: 568-2765 or 568-6615
Replica CDC, Bldg 5036
Located on the West Bliss, near the indoor swimming pool
Phone: 915-569-7196/7199
Director: 569-7030 Fax: 569-8211
Assistant Director: 569-7104
Main CDC, Bldg 1730
Located on West Bliss, next to the post office
Phone: 915-568-5689/6335
Director: 568-4422 Fax: 568-6726
Assistant Director: 568-4375
Milam CDC, Bldg 11896
Located next to the Milam SAC on East Bliss
Phone: 915-744-7879/7817
Director: 744-7881 Fax: 744-7904
Assistant Director: 744-7880
Logan SAC, Bldg 3505
Located in the Logan housing area on Ellerthorpe behind the Logan CDC
Phone: 915-569-5779
Director: 569-5788 Fax: 569-8727
Assistant Director: 569-5787
Bliss SAC, Bldg 2012
Located on West Bliss next to Bliss Elementary School
Phone: 915-568-2178
Director: 568-8401 Fax: 568-2118
Assistant Director: 568-8726
Milam SAC, Bldg 11898
Located on East Bliss next to Milam Elementary School
Phone: 915-744-2274
Director: 744-2277 Fax: 744-2285
Assistant Director: 744-2278
SAS care will follow the El Paso Independent School (EPISD) calendar. When school is out for in-service days, holidays, vacations or intercession, SAS will convert to full day care. If there are less than 20 school age children that need full day care from Ysleta or Socorro schools, SAS will accommodate them through the use of CDC wrap-around hourly care program and then transport the children back into SAS in the afternoon.
Before & After School, program will operate Monday - Friday from 0530 until school begins and from school dismissal (including early release times) until 1800.
Full-Day, (in-service days and intercession weeks) SAS program operate Monday - Friday from 0530 to 1800.
Weekend Hourly Care, in a select Child Development Center from 1300-2300 and in a select School Age Center from 1500-2200, call any CDC or SAC to inquire where care is available on the weekend and make a reservation. You will be charged a no show fee for any made reservation that was not utilized and not cancelled.
Middle School and Teen Programs
Youth Plex, Bldg 195
Located on West Bliss on Chaffee Rd
Phone: 915-568-5437
Director: 568-2908 Fax: 568-1841
Milam Youth Center, Bldg 10960
Located on East Bliss on Haan Rd
Phone: 915-744-2449
Director: 744-2452 Fax: 744-2876
Assistant Director: 744-2474
Hours of Operation: Monday thru Thursday after school until 1900, Fridays after school until 2000, on select Fridays the center will be open for Teens until 2200, during holiday, Spring and Summer camps the facility will be open for camps from 0800-1200 and regular programming will begin at 1200. Saturday hours are 1300-2200 (teens only after 2000).
Family Child Care (FCC) Office, Bldg 1743
Located on West Bliss on Victory Rd
Phone: 915-568-4198
Director: 568-8840 Fax: 569-5043
Hours of Operation: 0730-1630
Youth Sports Program, Bldg 195
Located on West Bliss on Chaffee Rd
Phone: 915-568-5437
Director: 568-2908 Fax: 568-1841
Assistant Director: 568-2617
Milam Youth Sports Annex, B-10960 Haan Rd, 744-2475
SKIESUnlimited Program
Logan SKIES, Bldg 3508
Located on Logan Heights next to the Logan SAS
Phone: 915-568-8336
SKIES #2, Bldg 131
Located on West Bliss on Doniphan Rd, across the street from the Youth Plex
915-568-5544
Instructional Program Specialist: 568-7187
Parent Central Services, Bldg 1743
Located on West Bliss on Victory Ave, across the street from the Fort Bliss Hotel
Monday – Friday, 0700-1800 and Saturday, 0800-1200
915-568-4374/568-4646
Outreach Services Director: 569-5040
PC Services Annex, Bldg 503B, Rm 224
Located on West Bliss in the Welcome Center
Monday – Friday, 0800-1630
915-568-2146
Youth Education and Support Services/School Liaison Office, Bldg 503B, Rm 224
Located on West Bliss in the Welcome Center
Monday – Friday, 0730-1630
Phone: 915-569-5064
Email: usarmy.bliss.imcom-fmwrc.mbx.school-liaison-office@mail.mil
All CYS Services facilities are closed on Federal Holidays.
Weekends
Logan CDC Bldg. 3500 and Milam CDC Bldg. 11896 rotate Saturday openings, 1300-2300. Logan SAC Bldg. 3505 and Milam SAC Bldg. 11898 also rotate Saturday openings 1500-2200, if you need care before 1500 or after 2200, care will be provided at the CDC. The Logan CDC/SAC are open on the odd dated Saturdays and the Milam CDC/SAC on the even dated Saturdays. The late fee for any child not picked up by closing is $1.00 per minute beginning at 1 minute past 2300 and if you are late 3 weekends in a row you will not be allowed to use Saturday care for one month. Weekend care is available by reservation, in order to ensure adequate staffing please make your reservation by the Friday prior. If you don’t make a reservation we can’t guarantee that staff will be available at the time that you need care.
Army Child Care in Your Neighborhood (ACCYN)
The Army Child Care in Your Neighborhood (ACCYN) program offers an Army-sponsored off-post child care as an addition to, not as an alternative to Army-operated on-post child care. The ACCYN program provides high-quality childcare options as on post Family Child Care Homes and Child Development Centers. Civilian Family Child Care Homes and Centers who choose to participate in the ACCYN program must meet the standards similar to those of the Army Child and Youth Services System. These community Homes and Centers receive ongoing training and supervision as they work towards achieving national accreditation and credentials.
The ACCYN childcare options allows for convenience for military families living “outside the gates”. There are select locations located across the country: www.naccrra.org/militaryprograms/army.php.
Military families may qualify for reduced fees or two weeks of reduced fees similar to those charged on post. Fees are calculated based on “total family” income, with discounts usually given for multiple children. More information is available at www.naccrra.org/military/assistance.php or with the local YWCA CCR&R contact, (915) 838-3581.
ACCYN is collaboration between the United States Army, the National Association of Child Care Resource and Referral Agencies (NACCRRA) and the local Child Care Resource and Referral Agency (CCR&Rs).
On 6 November 1989, congress passed the Military Child Care Act (MCCA) which impacts the quality of Child, Youth and School Services on military installations. The MCCA required DoD to prescribe uniform fee regulations for military child development programs, school-age programs, and sport programs. The fees are based on total family income. If total family income is not verified at the time of enrollment then the highest category will be charged. The fee ranges are updated annually and are provided upon request.
Fees For Legally Separated Families
A copy of the legal separation or a notarized statement stating that the sponsor is legally separated is required. Notarized statements must be co-signed by the battalion level commander. DoD Civilian patrons must provide a legal separation document.
Army Family Covenant
There are fee reductions available for children who have a parent that is deployed, is in a TDY or PCS status. There are also discounts available for children of Wounded and Fallen Warriors. A list of these discounts and the qualifying criteria is available from PC Services.
Registration Fee
There is no registration fee.
Initial Enrollment/Holding Fee
Fees will be prorated for initial entry into the program. Prorating is only authorized for initial entry into the program. The initial payment will equal 10% of the monthly payment rounded to the nearest even dollar and must be paid at the time of enrollment. Fees paid at the time of enrollment are your guarantee that the space will be there when you need it. You will be required to make a 2 week payment to hold a space. That initial fee is only refundable if you must withdraw prior to the start date due to deployment, PCS move, or extended TDY.
Regular Programs
Fees are due in advance on the 1st and 15th of each month. Payments will be late after 1800 on the 5th day after the 1st and 15th of the month: A $5.00 late fee per child will be charged on the 6th day and unit superiors will be notified. Households in arrears 45 days will be automatically placed in a delinquent status and your member’s passes will be suspended, denying services until the household balance is satisfied.
Summer Camp Fees
Camp fees for children in the CDCs are billed on a semi-monthly basis. The children included in that category are those who will be starting kindergarten and 1st grade at the beginning of the school year following that summer. Camp fees for youth in the SAS and MS&T programs are billed on a weekly basis and run from Monday thru Friday. Camp fees are due the Wednesday prior to the week camp starts. Spaces not paid for at that point will be made available to other patrons.
CYS Services Online
Visit https://webtrac.mwr.army.mil/webtrac/blisscyms.html to pay your bill, enroll for instructional classes as well as other things. Your user ID and password will be set up and emailed to you at the time of your registration.
Hourly Programs
Policy: Reservations can be made up to 4 weeks in advance. Payment is due at the time the child/youth is picked up or if you are only using before school care payment must be rendered when you are dropping off your child/ren. The minimum charge for School Age Services is four hours. The minimum charge for FCC is one hour and hourly care must be paid in advance for the number of hours reserved. Payment can be made in advance of care. Reservation will not be made for any household with an unpaid pass balance until the balance is paid in full.
No Show Fee: There will be an automatic charge of $4.00 for any unused/un-cancelled reservation.
4 Hour Free Open Recreation Program: School age youth 1st – 5th grade can receive free occasional drop in care during the weekday duty hours (0530-1800) in 2 hour increments for a total of 4 hours per month, reservations are required. The intention of this option is to ensure that patrons who need intermittent care will have an option when they need to attend events such as parent teacher conferences, duty formations, doctor appointments, etc.
Late Payment Fees
Payments for services are due in advance of the service to be provided. Payments can be made up to 5 days after the 1st and 15th of each month. A late fee of $5 will be automatically assessed on the 6th day and unit superiors will be notified. Households in arrears 45 days will be automatically placed in a delinquent status and your member’s passes will be suspended, denying services until the household balance is satisfied.
Late Pick-Up Fees
See Section VII, Child Left After Hours
Refund/Credit Policy
Refunds will be given with the approval of the program director. A credit to your household to be used at a later time is preferable. If a refund is requested and the original payment was made with a credit card the refund will be applied to your credit card. If the payment was made with cash or check and is under $50.00 a cash refund is possible if funds are available. For a refund over $50.00 a request will be sent to the Central Accounting Office and will be mailed to the address that you specify.
Financial Assistance
Families must demonstrate a need for a child care fee reduction due to financial hardship based on a review by an ACS financial counselor or a certified financial professional external to CYS Services. The counselor will provide a recommendation for a fee reduction to the Garrison Commander. Fee Adjustments for Financial Hardships must be re-evaluated at least every six months by the counselor or Garrison Commander. Families whose child care fees are 25% or more of their Total Family Income (TFI) may request a hardship review. You can contact the Outreach Services director, 915-568-4374 for assistance in filing a hardship. Some families may be eligible for financial assistance from Child Care Services (CCS). You can contact CCS at 533-7528.
Non-Payment of Fees
Failure to make payments within prescribed time frames will result in denial of service, notification will be sent to the sponsor’s commander and an action to garnish due fees from the sponsor’s wages will be submitted.
Patron Discounts
There are several patron discounts available:
Category A sports: Soccer, Flag Football, Track & Field, Volleyball, Basketball and Tennis.
Category B sports: Baseball, Softball and Wrestling.
Category C sports: Tackle Football, Lacrosse, Roller Hockey and Field Hockey
Category Other sports: Ice Hockey
Prorating for Vacation
See Section VII, Vacation
Tax Credit Reports
Your receipts are your proof of payment for income tax purposes. You can generate a child care tax statement at the CYS Online website. A user ID and password will be emailed to you at the time of registration. For parents using FCC providers, you must secure a provider’s tax number by the first payment date on the receipt. If a tax number happens to be the Social Security number then parent agrees to protect that information from abuse.
It is very important that your child is signed-in on our computer and with the caregiver in each child's area. By doing so, it allows us to know which children and how many children we are caring for. This also applies to departing the center. When departing the program you must sign out on the computer at the front desk as well as in the classroom, please ensure that the caregiver in the area is aware that your child is leaving. This allows us to maintain an accurate count of children, and assures their safety. Hourly payments must be made prior to picking up your child, and a receipt must be shown in the room. Children will only be released to siblings who are at least 13 years of age. Children will be released to parents or guardians listed in CYMS, a picture ID will be required. Children will not be released to parents that appear to be intoxicated. A parent may not be denied access to their child or the right to pick-up their child from a CYS Services program unless a copy of the custody agreement that denies such right is on file with CYS Services.
For those children who are being picked up after school, children check-in with our staff at their schools’ pick up point. Any child who is enrolled for the afternoon and does not check in will be followed up on. We will call parents and talk to the child's teacher in an attempt to find out why the child is not present. Please let us know before dismissal time, by 1430, if your child will be absent. Sponsor’s commander will be notified for recurring failure to notify your child’s program. Your child's safety is very important to us. Please be patient and understand this procedure is for the safety of your child. IMPORTANT NOTICE – If your child tells us he/she is supposed to walk home or wait to be picked up by a parent or friend, we can’t take the child’s word alone; we must have prior confirmation from the parent. Additionally, if you notify us that you do not wish us to pick up your child and your child is still waiting to be picked up when we are ready to leave school grounds, we must take your child with us as a safety measure.
Emergency Closures, Inclement Weather and Evacuation Plan
In the unlikely event that a site would have to close unexpectedly, for actual fire, bomb threat, terrorists, or severe weather, we have a contingency plan to move children/youth to one of three safe locations until such time you can be notified of the location to pick up your child/youth.
Personal Toys/Games/Spending Money
The program is not responsible for lost or misplaced items. However, if the items are labeled, it does make it easier for parents and staff to recognize ownership. We recommend that personal toys be left at home to prevent misunderstandings between children/youth, breakage, or loss of a favorite item. Extra money is not needed as your fees cover everything your child will need while in our care.
All CYS Services programs are operated in accordance with Department of Agriculture policy which does not permit discrimination because of race, color, sex age, handicap, political beliefs, religion or national origin. More information may be obtained here or from the Office of Equal Opportunity, USDA, Washington, D.C. 20250. Any person who believes that he or she has been discriminated against in any US related activity should inform the director. Unresolved complaints should then be addressed to the CYS Services Coordinator. You also have the option of contacting the Equal Employment Office here at Fort Bliss or you may write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326-W, Whitten Building, 1400 Independence Ave, SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (202) 720-5694.
Menu
A menu that includes a variety of children/youth's favorites, fresh seasonal foods and food from other cultures is prepared in a four-week cycle menu. The menu is planned by our CYS Services cooks and nutritionist. This menu is approved for wholesomeness and complete nutrition by a registered WBAMC Clinical Dietitian. Each menu follows USDA guidelines for nutrition and portion size.
Food Allergies
Allergies can be accommodated if the allergy is documented on a Special Diet Statement and a SNAP review. Our programs offer Silk brand, organic soy milk and rice milk for children with medically identified milk allergies.
Infant Food and Formula
We supply infant food and one brand of formula for infants.
Inspections
A specialist from the Preventive Medicine Section inspects the kitchen and food storage areas each month to insure sanitation and food safety compliance.
Meals/Snacks Provided
Meals and snacks are provided at no cost to you. Please see Section XI to see the snack and meal times for each program. Snacks are served as a self-serve buffet and fresh fruit is always available.
Meal Schedules
See Section XI
Child Left After Hours
The regular CDC and SAS program day ends at 1800, Monday thru Friday. Check with the facility director for the closing time of special events and Saturdays. Your child must be picked up by you or your emergency designee by 15 minutes after closing, if not the Military Police will be notified. There is a $1.00 late fee charge per minute up to 15 minutes per family per site. When you are later than 15 minutes you will be charged $4.00 per child, per site, for the remainder of the hour and then $5.00 per child per site for each hour thereafter.
Clearing CYS Services
PCS and ETS clearing for CYS Services can be accomplished in the in the PC Services main office or satellite office. If you have a child/youth in public school you must bring at the time of clearing a Military Student Notice of Attempt to Withdraw statement from your child/youth’s school. If you clear during the summer months when school is not in session the form can be filled out in PC Services.
Field Trips
Field trips will be scheduled for children in regularly scheduled programs. Parents must sign the
field trip notice prior to the field trip. Under no circumstances will permission be accepted telephonically. Parents are encouraged to volunteer and accompany the children on the field trip. Children going on the field trip must depart and return to the CYS Services facility. Arrangements for pick up at the field trip site must be coordinated with the facility director in advance of the field trip. Please do not send money as children under 5th grade are not allowed to spend it.
Guidance/Discipline
Program Attendants and FCC Providers use a positive discipline approach. Discipline will be applied in a consistent manner based on an understanding of the child/youth’s needs and behaviors of children/youth at varying developmental levels. Simple, understandable rules have been established so that every child/youth knows what is expected of them. Discipline will be constructive in nature, including such methods as diversion, separation from the situation, redirecting to another activity, non-participation in an activity, gentle physical restraint such as holding, and praise for appropriate behavior. Our goal is to guide and direct children/youth toward acceptable behavior. Children/youth engaging in persistent displays of inappropriate behavior will have their behavior documented on an incident form and referred to the program director. At this time, the parents will be contacted to assist in the establishment of an intervention program. A “Character Counts!” initiative is within all our CYS Services programs and at many military impacted schools in El Paso. The Character Counts! program (a character-development program) teaches children/youth through age appropriate activities that ethical people live by the six Pillars of character (Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring, Citizenship), these are universal values that help us make good choices. Knowledge of appropriate behavior assists children/youth in developing appropriate social behaviors. Children/youth engaging in persistent displays of inappropriate behavior will be documented on an incident/accident form and discussed with parent to establish an intervention program.
Suspension
Our goal is to guide and direct children toward acceptable behavior. Children engaging in persistent displays of inappropriate behavior will be documented on an incident/accident form and discussed with parent to establish an intervention program.
Parents will be contacted and asked to remove their child if the child becomes unruly, uncontrollable, or if his/her conduct is such that it interferes with or harms other children (i.e., biting, scratching, fighting, pushing) and does not respond to adult authority. No refund will be granted as a result of a suspension or removal. The procedure for suspension of children from CYSS programs is as follows:
a. Child will be separated from the group and the parent will be notified immediately concerning uncontrollable behavior or any incident resulting in injury to another child, to the child, or to a staff member.
b. In the event of suspension, the numbers of days and/or conditions for return will be determined on a case-by-case basis which can include that the parent(s) meets with the SNAP team to discuss an agreed upon intervention plan.
c. The decision to permanently remove a child from the program will only take place after all alternatives have been explored and tested.
d. Permanent removal will be determined by the SNAP Team.
Open Door
We are very proud of our staff and all our child and youth programs at Fort Bliss. We also know however, that child abuse and neglect can occur in child care settings. To protect your child/youth and assist staff in providing quality care, parents need to become a partner in their child/youth’s program. Studies point out that abuse is less likely to occur in programs where the parents have access to their children/youth.
All Fort Bliss Child, Youth and School Services Programs have an "open door" policy. This policy has been established to encourage involvement in your child/youth’s program and to support your responsibility as parents to ensure safe care is being provided for your child/youth. You are encouraged to spend time in your child/youth’s program and to get to know your child/youth’s program assistants/FCC providers. Parent should make it a point to visit the CYS Services program at different times of the day or any time the need arises.
Touch
Appropriate Touching And What It Involves:
A. Recognition of the importance of physical contact to support child/youth’s nurturance and guidance.
B. Adult respect for personal privacy and personal space of children/youth.
C. Responses affecting the safety and well-being of the child/youth (e.g., holding hands of child/youth while crossing the street; holding child/youth gently but firmly during a temper tantrum).
D. Examples of appropriate touching depend upon the age of the child/youth. For young children it includes: hugs, lap sitting, reassuring touches on the shoulder, and naptime backrubs. For youth it includes side hugs, and reassuring touches on the shoulder.
Inappropriate Touching And What It Involves:
A. Violation of laws against sexual contact between adults and children/youth. Adults may not use coercion or other forms of exploitation of the child/youth due to the child/youth’s lack of knowledge. This includes any touch that satisfies the sexual needs of the adult.
B. An attempt to change child/youth behavior with adult physical force, often applied in anger. An adult “striking out” in anger reinforces the child/youth’s own “striking out” to respond to a problem.
C. Examples of inappropriate touching include: forced hugs, corporal punishment, slapping, striking or punching, pulling of hair, tickling for prolonged periods, shaking, kisses, and fondling or molestation.
D. All Child and Youth Services staff and volunteers are bound by Army regulations to immediately report any infractions of this “Touch Policy” to their appropriate RPOC, director or chain of command.
Vacation Notice
A written notice is required to reduce fees and charges for vacation and is used to notify staff of your child’s/youth’s dates of absence and to hold their space. This notice is very important. Without this notice your fees will continue to accumulate and staff will spend needless time verifying your child’s/youth’s where-about/status. A child attending CDC or FCC is eligible for vacation after being in a full time program for 3 months. Child Development Center and/or School Age Care families may select a 2 or 4 week leave/vacation fee plan. This selection will occur during the family’s initial or re-registration for the upcoming 12 months. Families who choose the 4 week leave/vacation fee plan will pay a higher monthly fee than families who choose the 2 week plan since their fees are annualized to include leave/vacation. Once a leave/vacation plan is selected, it remains in effect for their entire registration year (12 months).
Withdrawal
A written notice of your intent to withdraw your child/youth from on-going programs is required two weeks prior to effective date of withdrawal. Again this is important. Notification helps us to effectively manage our spaces and staffing and keeps you from accruing needless fees. Upon your withdrawal and PCS, CYS Services will export your household information to a CYMS server at Family, Morale, Welfare and Recreation Command which will enable your gaining installation to import some information. You may still need to provide documentation of immunizations, health assessments and special needs forms, so carry those with you..
SECTION VIII – MEDICAL POLICIES/PROCEDURES
Basic Care Items
Basic care items can be applied in CYS Services programs if they are specifically age-appropriate and applied properly. Basic care items are limited to general categories of topical items for the prevention of sunburn, diaper rash, insect repellant, and teething irritation. Basic care items must be provided by the parents specifically for each child.
Health
A. Daily admission health screening is performed on all children/youth by staff and FCC providers. Centers and homes will post notices of contagious illness the day of exposure.
B. Illness criteria for denial of service: Children/youth who appear to be ill or show signs of fever will be closely screened and may be denied admission based upon the following symptoms:
1. Inability to participate in daily activities.
2. Temperatures in excess of 100.5 F (under 3 months) or 101.0 F (over 3 months) axillary (under the arm).
3. Obvious illnesses such as:
a. Impetigo - red, oozing erosion capped with a golden yellow crust that appears "stuck on".
b. Scabies - crusted wavy ridges and tunnels in the webs of hands, fingers, wrist and trunk.
c. Ringworm - flat, spreading ring-shaped lesions.
d. Chickenpox - crops of small blisters on a red base that become cloudy and crusted in 2-4 days.
e. Head lice - nits (white dots) attached to the hair shafts.
f. Culture - proven strep throat that has not been under treatment for at least 24 hours.
g. Conjunctivitis (pink eye) - red, watery eyes with thick yellowish discharge.
h. Persistent cough, severe diarrhea, or vomiting.
i. Symptoms of other contagious diseases such as mumps, hepatitis, scarlet fever, and strep infections.
j. Pinworm infestation.
Readmission To CYS Services Programs Following Illness
Children/youth may be readmitted after an illness only when their presence will not endanger the health of other children/youth and they are well enough to participate in usual daily activities and under the following conditions:
a. Fever - physician has signed Child Illness/Injury Readmission Record or fever has been absent for 24 hours without medication.
b. Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea has subsided for 24 hours.
c. Oral Antibiotic medication must have been given for a 24 hour period; the 24 hours begins after the first dose is given by you to your child/youth.
d. Provider has approved readmission and additional staff will not be needed to care for your child/youth.
e. Chicken Pox lesions are crusted, usually 5 to 6 days after onset.
f. Scabies is under treatment.
g. Lice are under treatment.
h. Pinworm treatment has occurred 24 hours before readmission.
i. Lesions from impetigo are no longer weeping.
j. Conjunctivitis has diminished to the point that eyes are no longer discharging.
k. The contagious stage of the illness is completed.
Readmission After Communicable Disease
Children/youth may not be readmitted to a CYS Services program after being diagnosed with a communicable illness without a statement from the child/youth’s medical provider indicating the child/youth is no longer infectious and is well enough to return. A child/youth may be readmitted without such a statement if the child/youth has been absent for the period of time designated by the AR 608-10 for the specific illness or disease the child/youth has had.
Reporting Communicable Disease
It is important that you notify your child/youth’s program if he has contracted a communicable disease.
The CYS Services program director will notify the Army Public Health Nurse (APHN) and parents whenever a communicable disease is reported in the program.
Immunization Schedule (See Section II, Immunizations)
Medication Dispensation
Medication will be administered to full-day and part-day children/youth as well as children with rescue medications. Parents must fill out the DA form 5225-R for each medication per month. As per regulations and APHN only certain medications can be given, a list of these medications can be obtained from the program your child/youth is attending. Having this list will make it easier for you to obtain from your child/youth’s physician medication that can be administered in our programs without obtaining an exception from the APHN.
Only medications in the proper form and prescribed by a physician will be accepted. All medication must include the following to ensure no delay in administration at CYS Services facilities:
Medication that is prescribed “as needed” can not be given in the programs, please ensure “as needed” is not written on your child’s prescription. Medication must be in a zip-lock bag labeled with the child/youth’s name. Proper measuring devices must accompany the medicine in the plastic bag. Refrigerated and non-refrigerated medications are placed in locked containers in each program and kept in one central location, with the exception of rescue medications which are locked and stored in the classroom where the child is located.
Medication that needs to be administered only once or twice a day will be given by the child’s parent/guardian.
Medication is given at noon and 2 pm. This means medication administered three times daily should be given at 6 am, 2 pm, and 10 pm. Medication administered four times a day should be given at 6 am, noon, 6 pm, and midnight. Parents please adjust hours at home.
Required medication must be on site in order for your child to remain in care.
SAS/MST Self Medication
School age children and youth can self medicate; if the child/youth's physician determines that it is developmentally appropriate and the child/youth knows enough about the disease and treatment procedure to do so successfully. Generally; if children self administer medication while in school, they should be able to do so in a CYS Services setting. Self-medication in CYS Services programs requires written instructions from the child/youth's physician clearly spelling out what self-medication is allowed and when/under what circumstances the child/youth must be referred back to the parents/physician. Youth must be instructed not to share medications and should a youth violate these restrictions the privilege of self medicating will be revoked and you will be notified. Youth are required to notify staff when carrying medications.
Sick Child/Isolation
If your child/youth becomes ill or is injured while in a CYS Services program the parent/guardian will be notified immediately by a phone call to home or unit. If necessary, an ambulance will be called for medical treatment. If your child/youth is required to be placed in the program’s isolation room for any length of time due to staff not being able to locate you, the cost of having one staff member stay with the child/youth will be added to your fees.
SECTION IX – CYS SERVICES PERSONNEL AND FCC PROVIDERS
Background Checks
CYS services employees and FCC Providers have each had extensive background checks by Provost Marshall’s Office, Criminal Investigative Division, Social Work Services, Army Drug and Alcohol Program and El Paso Police Department. In addition any persons over the age of 12 in an FCC provider’s home have been investigated. Additional checks of FCC providers include the sponsor’s commander, the housing contractor and school counselors. CYS Services staff also undergo a Child Care National Agency Check conducted through the Office of Personnel Management by the FBI.
Staff Identification
All staff in CYS Services programs will be required to wear a name tag listing employee’s first and last name when on duty.
Training
Training has been provided in the following but is not limited to: Ages & Stages growth characteristics, age-appropriate developmental and recreational activities; environments; guidance techniques; child health, sanitation, and nutrition; administering medication and communicable diseases; safety and emergency procedures; child abuse identification, reporting, and prevention; special needs awareness; CPR and first-aid; regulations and SOPs; and parent/public relations. As well as needed credentials and certifications for their area of expertise. Each receives at least 24 clock hours of training per year when the state licensing regulations only require 16 hours per year. We require all our staff to have CPR and first-aid certification, whereas, the state only requires that one person on duty be certified.
SECTION X – MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
Safety
CYS Services is committed to safety. We are annually inspected and certified by the Department of Army (DA) and comply with the Army regulations governing facilities providing care to children/youth. These regulations are intended to establish minimum standards in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of children/youth. Our activity space, supplies and equipment are high quality, maintained in good repair and inspected by the higher headquarters’ authority. In addition to this annual inspection we have annual/monthly/quarterly inspections by installation agencies as well as off post agencies. Parents as well as Training and Curriculum Specialists (in CDC and FCC) and Training and Program Specialists (in SAS and YS) are involved in observing and documenting the fact that we meet our own standards of quality.
Birthdays/Celebrations
You may arrange for a birthday party for your child. However, you must provide the refreshments, favors and games. Please make arrangements with your child's lead caregiver at least one week before the party. The center follows Department of Agriculture dietary guidelines, the use of sugar is limited and nutritious well balanced meals are served. Birthday parties are no exception. Please provide nutritious finger foods, and/or fruit along with your cake and ice cream. Please do not make gifts a part of the party.
Child Abuse And Neglect Identification
CYS Services staff and FCC providers are trained in recognizing signs of child abuse and neglect. CYS Services staff and FCC providers are required by law to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Military Police. Odd behavior, dirty clothes, lack of cleanliness, or suspicious bruises, abrasions, burns, and other physical marks are evidence of possible abuse or neglect and must be reported to the proper authorities.
Keeping Children/Youth Safe – Everybody’s Business: If at any time you see anything you think is inappropriate, please address it directly to the caregiver/full time room manager/director. Your assistance in helping us identify poor care giving skills or actual abuse is one of the critical factors in preventing child abuse. If you suspect child abuse, child neglect, or a safety violation in your child/youth’s center/program or family child care home, report it to:
Department of Defense Child Abuse and Safety Violation Hotline: 1-877-790-1197
Family Advocacy Program: 568-1132
Safety Office: 568-2510
CYS Services staff will report any suspected incidents to the following reporting point of contact (RPOC): Fort Bliss Military Police 568-2115/2116/2117, then the director will report to Child Protective Services (CPS): 1-800-252-5400.
Resource and Referral
PC Services provides referrals to off-post facilities (Army Child Care in Your Neighborhood (ACCYN) and Army School Age Programs in Your Neighborhood (ASPYN)) teen babysitters, and will call your new duty station in advance for information on day care availability. Teenage babysitter lists are available in CDC’s as well.
School Liaison Services
Contact the School Liaison Officer (SLO) for assistance if you: have a concern about your child/youth’s public school experiences, want to find out about the various programs offered in the schools, need information about educational opportunities necessary to achieve academic success, need assistance in locating a point of contact in the schools, want help determining which school your child will attend based on your address, or if you would like information on requesting an intra-district or inter-district transfer.
Special Openings
If you belong to an organization that is planning a special event or function and need child care contact our Outreach Services director, 569-5040 to reserve the date and time. This enables us to plan our schedule and staff requirements to best meet your needs and the needs of your child.
Video Surveillance Systems
All CYS Services care-giving facilities are monitored/recorded by video surveillance 24/7.
SECTION XI –PROGRAM SPECIFIC INFORMATION
The policies specific to the program your child will be attending will be attached to the parent policies handbook. Please ensure the PC Services staff included it or you may go to blissmwr.com/cys/ to print a copy.