Michigan District — LCMS - Early Childhood Education

Early Childhood Core Values \| Early Childhood Mission Statement Early Childhood Cabinet Member Directory \| Licensing Resources Childcare Staff Manual (example) Staff Handbook (example) Staff Contract (example) Parent Handbook (example) Confidentiality Form (example) Interview Form (example) Philosophy, Principles & Policies Handbook Workshops & Conferences In His Hands Funding Available Early Childhood Newsletter - January 2008
Early Childhood Core Values We Recognize... - That each child is a unique, redeemed child of God and that the spiritual welfare of each child is the primary focus for all Early Childhood ministries. - That the family is a child's first and foremost teacher. - That Early Childhood Education is an intentional ministry to the families of young children and as such it appreciates, respects, and supports the bond between the child and family. - That Early Childhood Education is an integral part of the congregational mission and ministry. - That Early Childhood Education is a partnership in ministry that involves the family, staff, congregation and community. - That children learn best through developmentally appropriate activities incorporating play and experimental exploration. - That Early Childhood Education provides a warm, safe and Christ-centered environment where children develop to their fullest potential spiritually, intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Early Childhood Cabinet Michigan District, LC-MS Revised 2007 Early Childhood Education Corevalues - pdf format
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Early Childhood Education Mission Statement The mission of the LC-MS Michigan District Early Childhood Cabinet is to encourage & facilitate Christ-centered, developmentally appropriate Early Childhood ministries for the congregations of the Michigan District. We will: Assist congregations in developing Christ-centered Early Childhood programs. Teacher Evaluation \| Start-Ups \| Colloquy \| Visitation/Networking \| Salaries \| Business plans \| Staffing \| Training Workshop/In-Service \| Publicity \| Marketing \| Accreditation \| Development \| Third Source Funding \| Technology Serve as advocates for Early Childhood Education and educators. Educate congregations' administrators as to the importance of Early Childhood as a means of Mission and Ministry. Promote Christ-centered professionalism of Early Childhood educators. Support and assist Early Childhood consultants as needed. Promote quality, age-appropriate resources. Uphold the Core Values of the Michigan District Early Childhood Cabinet Revised 2007 Early Childhood Mission Statement - pdf format
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In His Hands The Department of Child Ministry of Synod publishes a resource for congregations interested in beginning and operating Lutheran Early Childhood Programs. This resource is available from the Board of Congregational services at 800.248.1930 ext 1269. The 3-ring binder includes the following topics: - Rationale - Steps in Getting Started - Your Early Childhood Program's Governing Body - The Business Plan - Communication - Leadership - The Director - The Early Childhood Program Staff - Environment - Curriculum - Outreach to Families - Evaluating Your Early Childhood Ministry - Keeping the Ministry Team Connected It also contains samples of forms and policies that will assist a congregation in developing their own materials. You can also borrow this resource from the District Office by calling 888.225.2111X247 ask to speak with someone in the education office.
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Funding Available for Early Childhood Startup The Michigan District's Early Childhood Cabinet has funding available for Michigan District Congregations that are starting a Preschool Ministry to open in the fall of the current year. The cabinet has established Core Values and a Mission Statement encouraging congregations to begin ministries to children. The cabinet seeks to assist in this endeavor by providing startup funding. Congregations need to complete and submit an application to: Michigan District, LCMS; Attn: Education Department; 3773 Geddes Road; Ann Arbor, MI 48105 Michigan District EEC Funding Application - pdf file The cabinet will allocate funds based on the number of applications received and accepted in a given year.
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Early Childhood Center Licensing Michigan State Police Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT) Live Scan Electronic Fingerprining Michigan Licensing Rules for Child Care Centers Michigan Dept. of Education Early Childhood Standards of Quality - for Infant and Toddler Programs Early Childhood Standards of Quality - for Pre-Kindergarten
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