Our Policies:

At Vertical Kids Early Learning Academy, we are committed to providing a safe, Christ-centered, and enriching summer camp experience that nurtures character, creativity, and connection in every child. We believe in strong partnerships with families and a shared commitment to creating a joyful, respectful, and faith-filled environment.

By enrolling your child in the Summer Camp Program, you agree to the following policies:

Camper Eligibility

• Age Requirement: Camp is open to children ages 6 to 11.

• Toileting Requirement: All children must be fully potty-trained.

Inclusion & Behavioral Expectations

• While we strive to welcome and serve all children, Vertical Kids ELA is not equipped or staffed to support children with severe behavioral challenges or special needs requiring one-on-one care or specialized services.

• We reserve the right to deny enrollment or discontinue participation if a child’s needs exceed what our team can reasonably and safely accommodate, in order to maintain a safe and positive environment for all.

Tuition & Enrollment

• Enrollment Options: Session I (4 weeks), Session II (5 weeks), or Full Session (9 weeks). Parents agree to fully pay for their selected enrollment option.

• One-Time Registration/Activity Fee: A one-time registration/supply fee is assessed for all children enrolled with the exception of those who using the childcare subsidy (CCS):

  • $50 per child prior to May 15

  • $100 per child after May 15

• Payment Options: Families have two payment options: Payment in full prior to the first day of camp OR the weekly payment plan. There are no prorated rates for missed days, scheduled center holidays, or planned/unplanned absences.

• Payment Policy: Tuition must be paid in full before the start of each week. Children may not attend camp without prepayment.

• Sibling Discount: A 10% discount is applied for each additional child enrolled in the same household.

• Extended Care: An additional fee of $50 per week will be applied for extended care per child. This includes an earlier drop-off time and a later pick-up time.

• Withdrawal: Families may withdraw their child before the first day of camp and receive a refund of tuition paid. The refund excludes the nonrefundable registration/activity fee. Once the camp session begins (even on the first day of camp), parents must provide a two-week written notice of withdrawal to verticalkids@wearevertical.church and will be responsible for payment until the date of termination.

• Other Fees:

  • Late Pickup Fee: $35 per occurrence

  • Failed ACH Payment: $3.50 per occurrence

  • Returned Check Fee: $30 per occurrence

  • Late Payment Fee: $10 per day

Camp Hours

• Standard Camp Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM

• Extended Care Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM (available for an additional fee)

Meals

• Meals & Snacks Provided Daily: Nutritious breakfasts, lunches, and afternoon snacks are provided by Vertical Kids ELA through the CACFP Program. Parents do not need to send food or snacks. Please notify us in advance of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

• Also, please note that no homemade foods or snacks are allowed for sharing with students and/or staff.

Health & Illness Policy

• If a child develops contagious symptoms during the day (e.g., fever, vomiting, diarrhea, rash), the parent/guardian will be contacted and must pick up the child immediately.

• Children must be symptom- and fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of medication before returning to camp.

• Families should notify camp staff if their child has been exposed to a contagious illness, so we may take appropriate precautions.

• Absent Due to Sickness Policy: Our program is a full-time program, and you are not given credit or eligible for prorated tuition for days missed, regardless of the reason. If your child misses an entire week of camp due to surgery or hospitalization, we can review your case for partial credit to be used towards a future week of camp. However, you will need to submit your request for a credit in writing the same week your child missed. You must notify us in writing by emailing verticalkids@wearevertical.church. We will review each case individually. We ask that you submit supporting documentation like a hospital bill AND a signed doctor’s acknowledgement. We will not retro back credits for the weeks missed. If we are not notified within the same week your child missed, we will not review your case.

Parent Partnership Expectations

• Daily Preparedness: Parents agree to send all requested items daily, such as a water bottle, change of clothes, sunscreen, napping mat or blanket, or other personal care items.

• Communication: Parents will maintain responsive and respectful communication with camp staff and stay informed through all official camp updates.

• Confidentiality: Families are expected to uphold privacy and confidentiality, respecting the dignity of other children, families, and staff.

• Partnership: Parents agree to support all camp rules, schedules, and staff decisions for the good of the camp community.