Frequently Asked Questions
Q?
What is the educational background of the teachers and staff?
A:
All classes are taught by teachers with an education degree.
Q?
Does the Preschool have any accreditations?
A:
Not at this time.
Q?
How old must my child be to attend?
A:
We have classes for children age 2-5. Please see our class offerings for the minimum age requirements of each class.
Q?
How large are each of the classes?
A:
Class sizes are limited to six students in the 2-year-old class, 14 in the 3-year-old and Learning together classes, 16 in the Pre-K class, and 12 in the Junior Kindergarten class. Because we value teacher-child interaction, each of our classrooms has a teacher and an assistant to promote positive teacher-child interaction and care.
Q?
Does my child need to be potty-trained to attend?
A:
Yes, a child attending a class independent of a caregiver (ages 3 and up) must be potty trained to attend the Preschool. We understand occasional accidents happen, and we are prepared. However, an accident should be the exception, and not the norm.
Q?
Are snacks provided?
A:
We ask that you send in a drink and (peanut-free or nut-free?) snack for your child. We recommend a snack bag or lunch box. We do not have immediate access to a refrigerator, so please pack snacks accordingly.
Q?
Is there naptime?
A:
Since the class times are only 2 ½ hours, we do not provide time for naps.
Q?
if I am late picking up my child?
A:
Being on-time at the end of class is important to your child. If unforeseeable circumstances keep you from arriving on time, please contact the preschool. Someone will stay with your child until a parent arrives. The parent will be contacted after 15 minutes delay to determine the reason for the delay.
Q?
What if I can’t pick up my child? Can someone else do it?
A:
If someone other than the regular pick up person is coming to pick up your child, please let your child and the staff know! We will ask for ID before we release your child to the person picking up your child.
Q?
How can I find out how my child is doing and what is happening in the classroom?
A:
Your child will bring home a daily folder. This is our main source of communication. Contacting your child’s teacher via email with specific questions is also acceptable. Please don’t ever hesitate to share any questions or concerns you may have with your child’s teacher. At least one parent-teacher conference will be scheduled during the year also. Additionally, the teachers use Shutterfly and class newsletters to communicate.
Q?
Can I bring in a treat for my child’s birthday?
A:
We love to celebrate birthdays in the classroom! Yes, you may send in a birthday treat, we simply request that it be peanut-free. We will share this treat with the classmates during snack time (or lunch in Junior Kindergarten).
Q?
What should I do if my child is sick?
A:
Please do not send a sick child to school. Teachers are not allowed to give medication to your child. If your child has vomited, had diarrhea or a fever in the prior 24 hours, please keep your child home. Let us know via phone (412-884-5960) or email (preschool@goodshepherdpittsburgh.org) if your child will not be attending.
Q?
How can I be involved in my child’s classroom?
A:
We have holiday parties which are run by the parents. Prior to the party, there will be sign-up sheets asking for volunteers to assist. Please speak with your child’s teacher for more opportunities to help in the classroom.
Q?
What happens if my child misbehaves in class?
A:
If a behavior needs addressed, it is done so on an individual basis. A child may be moved from a situation to sit at a table with a teacher or aide. We always try to focus on the positive, not the negative!!