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Program Overview

HCPS Child Care Services

HCPS Child Care Services are optional, auxiliary services designed especially for the children of Henderson County Public Schools and their working parents. Beginning on the first day of school and ending on the last day of the school year, HCPS Child Care offers before-school care (PSAM) and after-school care (PSPM) at sites in all 13 elementary schools, Monday through Friday.

Throughout the school year, various sites will be open for all-day care (PLUS) on Non-Student days, including Teacher Work Days, winter weather days and the “Summer PLUS” program during summer break.

The programs operate on a self-sufficient basis, with enrollment rates covering all operational costs, including staff salaries, supplies, child nutrition, indirect costs to the schools, etc. HCPS Child Care is licensed by the North Carolina Division of Child Development Early Education (category star rating) and the Department of Human Resources. Inspections are state conducted.

Program Descriptions

PSAM (Before-School)

Locations: all 13 elementary schools

Hours of operation: 6:30 a.m. until the start of the school day (approx. 8 a.m.) On delayed school day schedules, PSAM will open at 7:30 a.m.

Programming: The PSAM program is planned according to the early morning hours, providing children a variety of indoor activities (to include homework, reading, coloring table games, etc.) Daily schedules and other important information are posted at the program sites for parents to review.

PSPM (After-School)

Locations: all 13 elementary schools

Hours of operation: from school dismissal until 6:00 p.m.

Programming: The PSPM program is an active time of fun and relaxation, with consideration that the children have been in class throughout the day. Children are provided with a variety of activities including arts and crafts, table games, physical activities both inside and outside, story time, science activities, dramatic play, and more. Quiet time is also offered daily, during which time children may choose to work on their homework. A daily schedule, menu, and other important information are posted at the program sites for parents to review. During the after-school hours, child care law states that children should play outdoors every day, weather permitting (no weather advisory). Parents are responsible for making sure children are properly dressed for daily weather conditions.

PLUS (Non-Student Days)

Locations: Various sites will be open for all-day care through the PLUS program on Non-Student days, including Teacher Work Days, and winter weather days. The “Summer PLUS” program runs during the summer break, with specific schedules and site locations announced in the spring. Summer PLUS annually operates through the first or second week in August, when classroom teachers return to prepare their rooms for the new school year.

Hours of operation: 6:30 a.m – 6:00 p.m. Drop off time is no later than 9:00 am. Parents must be aware of field trip times and adjust drop off time accordingly.

Programming: “Summer PLUS” is an active program packed with fun summertime activities including: arts and crafts, table games, physical activities both inside and outside, story time, science activities, dramatic play, weekly visits to the pool, field trips* and visits from educational presenters. Quiet time is also offered daily for relaxation. Daily schedules, menus, and other important information are posted at the program sites for parents to review. During the Summer PLUS hours, child care law states that children should play outdoors every day, weather permitting (no weather advisory). Parents are responsible for making sure children are properly dressed for daily weather conditions.

*Additional fees may apply for field trips. Children should bring labeled, non-perishable lunches on field trip days.

Nutrition

PSAM: The PSAM program does not include a snack. Students may purchase breakfast through HCPS Child Nutrition following the PSAM program.

PSPM: Afternoon snack provided.

PLUS: Morning and afternoon snacks are provided. Students must bring or purchase their lunches. Lunches from home should be well-balanced, not require heating, and include a drink in a non-breakable container. Refrigeration is available for all lunches and drinks while on site. Lunches are also available for purchase through HCPS Child Nutrition. Students receiving Free or Reduced-Price lunches during the school year remain eligible through the Summer PLUS program.