Navigating Back to School During COVID-19

La Casa Preschool Logo

It is with great joy and excitement we announce that school is indeed going to start in person September 8!!  We remain steadfast that being “on site” and not “online” is the best option for children and is the optimal preschool environment for them in which to learn and grow.  We have been very busy preparing ourselves for the start of the new school year.  Be assured, we have a comprehensive plan in place (available for review at the preschool office) with proper protocols and procedures outlined to safeguard everyone’s good health.  To achieve a healthy environment conducive to allowing school to not only open but remain open, we will implement and consistently maintain preemptive measures at arrival each day, and adhere to thorough sanitation protocols throughout the day. 

Partner with Parents

First and foremost, we want to partner with parents in being advocates to produce the healthiest possible campus.  Parents are requested to assess their own child’s health each day BEFORE leaving home, including a quick temperature check to determine they are fever free, and other family members as well.  If there is any uncertainty about their health, it is best that the child stay home until totally well enough to be at school. 

New Drop Off Protocols

Upon arriving at school, our drop off protocols require participation in a health screening with a contact-less temperature check on all family members accompanying the students to class.  One entry point and separate exit point will allow parents to safely distance from others while escorting their child to class, to sign them in at arrival and then sign them out at dismissal.  Parents will not be invited into the classroom for the foreseeable future. 

Social Distancing and Face Coverings

Social distancing will be expected and assisted by demarcation of specific areas near each classroom.  Masks are required by all persons over the age of 6 years, but not required by our preschool students. 

Increased Hygiene Practices

As is our usual practice, teachers will monitor and encourage proper hand-washing techniques.  In addition, all high contact surfaces will be disinfected during the day.  The custodial staff will continue to clean each classroom, the restrooms and the office areas at the end of the day.  An EPA registered, non-toxic disinfectant dispersed through a fogger machine will add another layer of protection over all materials and surfaces each day as well.  Individual class cohorts will be established by keeping the children in each class together at all times and not integrated with students in other classes; that includes PE class, playground time and Lunch Bunch and Discovery Time. 

Monitoring for Illness and Handling Suspected or Confirmed Cases of COVID-19

Illness, Covid related or otherwise, will result in enforcing our school policies regarding exclusion from preschool.  Students are not permitted to attend preschool if they exhibit signs of illness, present with a fever, or have a health condition that is considered contagious in nature.  Permission to return to school is dependent upon being fever free, symptom free without benefit of medication and generally well once again.  Children who become sick while at school are removed from the classroom, made to feel comfortable and parents will be contacted immediately to pick up their child.  CDC guidelines will prevail in the event of a case of Covid-19, including quarantine recommendations.  Notification will be given to the entire student population. 

Save Return to La Casa Preschool

Together we are creating our own little LA CASA BUBBLE!!  It will take all of our collective efforts to maintain the integrity of this bubble and not let it burst.  It cannot be overstated.  The health and safety of all depends upon all of us doing our part.  Good decisions will make all the difference.  By staying well ourselves, we help others around us to do so, too.  Best advice:  stay home when you can.  For sure stay home when you are sick.  Stay home if you suspect you are getting sick.  Wash your hands thoroughly and often.  Wear a mask always!  Trust that we can still see you smiling behind that mask.  And we are smiling right back at you!!!

Yours in Christ,

Mrs. L

The legacy of La Casa Preschool

Dear wonderful families,

In these times of uncertainty, of one thing I am absolutely certain. We are better than we realize; stronger than we allow ourselves to believe; more connected than apart; and definitely more blessed than we can possibly comprehend .

As we officially close this school year, there are so many emotions that cannot be expressed properly, at least not in this forum. But allow me to try in some way to leave you with my thoughts about this year, something to think about, if you will..... about the relationships formed, about the shared experiences, about OUR Scottsdale preschool and most importantly how each and every one of you are an indelible part of this special place we call La Casa and its legacy.

Legacy evolves organically over time.  It is borne out of creating something magical by doing the right thing always. By being true to what is important and real, and on behalf of others.  In this case, the children and families in this community for over three decades. The legacy of La Casa Preschool will be that no matter what transpired over that vast span of time, or even during a single, unprecedented school year; our indefatigable spirit and commitment has never wavered.  

Having its mission established long ago, La Casa’s early childhood curriculum and Christian education has remained focused on bringing the word of the Lord to the children in an environment that is conducive to forming relationships with Him and others, as well as inspiring a desire for life-long learning in a way that is honest and steadfast. This school has indeed withstood and prevailed.  It shall prevail, that is legacy defined. Regardless of time or events, there will always be eager students who love to come to school and learn.  There will always be dedicated, caring teachers who continue to help them learn.  Most certainly, La Casa will always have the blessing of forever families that help to shape the legacy of love that began to form thirty- seven years ago!  Each of us, individually and collectively, through those years are part of this legacy. 

So many have come before and, with full faith, there is no doubt that many others will also find their way to this special school in the years ahead.  There is simply no other place quite like La Casa; no other place where the meaning of “family” is demonstrated and lived out each day of the school year. 

It continues to be one of my greatest joys to ring the school bell each morning.  The school bell harkens the day to begin. As time will bear out, it also signifies the call to the children of La Casa Preschool, from then until now and long into the future, to come to learn and to be loved.  And most importantly, to come and grow in God’s love together.

With much appreciation for all who love this wonderful school as I do. Until we meet again.....

Yours in Christ,

Mrs. L