EARLY CHILDHOOD Q&A

1. How many teachers are in a classroom?

There are two teachers in a classroom. A Lead Teacher and an Assistant Teacher.

2. Does my child have to be potty trained?

No, but your child should have some knowledge of the process. For example, informs teacher when they need to go, attempt to go on their own.

3. Are meals provided?

Yes, breakfast, lunch, and snacks are provided daily.

4. What curriculum do you use?

We use the DOE Creative Curriculum.

5. What are your hours of operation and rates? 

• 2-K, 3-K & Pre-K (UPK): 8:30 AM–2:50 PM Extended Day Care is available for an additional fee: Early Care: 7:30–8:30 AM — $100/month Late Care: 3:00–6:00 PM — $300/month Early + Late Care: $400/month.

6. How do I apply to your Early Childhood program?

Families can apply through the City’s MySchools portal. You must first apply at the MySchools portal before registering at the H.E.S. Detailed instructions are here. 

7. How can I apply for a voucher? 

Once accepted into the program, the ECH Director will assist with the voucher process.

8. Are you a uniform school?

Yes, we are a uniform school. Our uniform colors are navy blue or khaki bottoms and white or navy blue shirts. Black dress shoes with rubber soles or sneakers are also permitted. More information about our uniforms can be found on our Uniform Page here.

9. Do you give homework?

We give review sheets. We send home a review of what we learn for the week for parents to enhance student learning while at home. Many of our activities are project based assignments, where we encourage parent participation.

10. Does your school have parent-teacher conferences?

Yes, three times a year. December, March, and June.

11. Does your school communicate through parent apps?

Yes, we send all communication through Class Dojo. Teachers use the platform to communicate with parents, as well as post pictures.

12. Is there a nurse onsite?

No, we don’t have a nurse onsite. However, we do have staff that is MAT certified to administer medication, if needed.

13. Are there discounts on other youth programs at the H.E.S.?

Yes, if you are a H.E.S. member and/or a Early Childhood Center family, there is a discount on other H.E.S. programs, such as youth sports, aquatics, music school and others.

14. What is a typical day at the H.E.S.?

Sample Schedule

8:30 – 9 am

Arrival, Morning Check-In, Fine Motor Skills Activities, Breakfast

9 – 9:15 am

Morning Meeting

9:15 – 10:15 am

Gross Motor Skills (Music and Movement), Physical Play (Indoor or Outdoors)

10:15 – 11:50 am

Interest Areas/Centers, Free Play

11:50 am – 12:05 pm

Transition/Bathroom, Lunch Prep Time with Helpers, Read Aloud

12:05 – 12:45 pm

Family Style Lunch

12:45 – 1:45 pm (3-K)

Rest Time

1:45 – 2:05 pm (3-K)

Wake Up Time, Clean-Up Mats and Bedding

2 – 2:20 pm

Snack

2:20 – 2:45 pm

Closing Circle/Reflection, Story, Transition into Area and Late Care

2:45 – 3 pm

Centers #2 Activity

3 – 3:45 pm

Afternoon Extra Curricular

3:45 – 6 pm

Activities, Outdoors or Gym Time, Clean Up, Say Goodbye