Dear Parent(s) and/or Guardian(s):

 We want to be vigilant about keeping our students safe and secure.  It is important for your child to be properly supervised in the mornings and afternoons.  We know that many of our families are facing tough economic times.  The ability to afford proper childcare has become increasingly more difficult for many of you.  However, as state-mandated reporters, we are required to report the improper supervision of children to the Henry County Department of Family and Children’s Services (DFACS).

Therefore, in an effort to prevent any circumstances from occurring that could place one of our students in harms way and the possible filing of reports to DFACS, our schools would like to provide you with the following guidelines from the state of Georgia.  The guidelines are taken directly from the Child Protective Services Social Services Manual, 2104.3.

1. Children eight years of age or younger should NEVER be left alone.
2. Children between the ages of nine and twelve, based on their levels of maturity, may be left alone for less than two hours.  However, children between the ages of nine and twelve should never be utilized as babysitters!
3. Children thirteen years of age and older, based on their levels of maturity, may be left alone and may perform the role of babysitter as authorized by a parent and/or caretaker for up to eight hours during the day. 

It is extremely important to remember that our elementary students range in age from five to twelve years old.  Therefore, the two hour limit or less applies to their supervision needs as you ask yourself the following questions.

1. Does the child know the emergency plan for the family?
2. Does the child know the parent’s telephone numbers (cell, home, and work)?
3. Can the child demonstrate the plan and recite the numbers?
4. What is the availability of the parent during the time?
5. Are there environmental factors that further add risk to the situation?
6. Are there factors that reduce risk (e.g., supportive, available neighbors)?

It is our desire to assist you, as parents and guardians, in making wise decisions regarding the safety and supervision of your children.  If we can be of assistance to you in any manner, please feel free to contact us at the school at (770) 954 – 1901.