Extended Day Program Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why can't my child in TK–3rd grade sign themselves in for Morning Care?
For the safety of our students, all children in TK–3rd grade must be walked into Morning Care by a parent or authorized adult and signed in. Unlike After School Care, where the campus is staffed with teachers, school employees, and families during dismissal, the Morning Care staff member is typically the only staff member on campus when the program opens at 7:00 a.m. They cannot safely monitor the entrance while also supervising the students already in their care. Requiring an adult to walk students into the program ensures that every child arrives safely, is accounted for, and is properly signed in before the parent leaves.
2. The system signed me up for every day, but I won't need care every day. Will I be charged for all of those days?
No. The registration system automatically defaults to all school days because Extended Day operates on a drop-in, as-needed basis during the regular school year. You will only be charged for the days and the actual time your child attends the program. Registering for all days simply ensures your child is eligible to attend whenever care is needed.
3. I see Intersession Days listed on the calendar. Am I automatically signed up because I'm already registered for Extended Day?
No. Registration for regular school-year Extended Day does not automatically enroll your child in Intersession Days. Approximately one month before each scheduled Intersession, a separate registration notice will be sent to all families. Space is very limited, and ELOP-qualified families receive priority enrollment. If space remains after ELOP enrollment, registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Please note that submitting a registration request does not guarantee a spot. Families will be notified once placement has been confirmed.
4. Is there an app for the new ARUX system?
Not at this time. ARUX is currently available through a mobile-friendly website that works well on smartphones, tablets, and computers. ARUX is working on developing a parent app, which is expected to be available later this year. We will notify families as soon as the app is released.
5. We are a split-family household. Do we each need our own ARUX account?
No. Your student only needs to be registered under one ARUX family account. Each family account is assigned one unique check-in/check-out code for all students in that family. Both parents and any other authorized pick-up or drop-off individuals should be added to the account as an authorized relationship. When dropping off or picking up a student, the authorized person will enter the family's code and select their name from the drop-down menu. This allows both households to use the same account while accurately recording who checked the student in or out.
6. How can I reach the Extended Day staff if I need to?
Please call your school's main office number and follow the prompts to reach the Extended Day/After School Care Program. Please note that Extended Day staff are not on site until the school day has ended. If you need to get a message to your child before school is dismissed, please contact the school front office, and they will ensure your message is delivered.
7. Is Extended Day available during school holidays, Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, or Spring Break?
No. Extended Day is only available on regular school days and scheduled Intersession Days. The program is not offered during Thanksgiving Break, Winter Break, Spring Break, or other school holidays unless those days have been designated as an official Intersession.
8. What time does Extended Day open for Morning Care and close for After School Care?
All Extended Day sites follow the same program hours: • Morning Care: Opens at 7:00 a.m. • After School Care: Closes promptly at 6:00 p.m. Please make every effort to pick up your child by 6:00 p.m. Late pick-ups will result in late fees and could affect your child's participation in the Extended Day Program.
9. What are the snack options at Extended Day?
Students are offered a variety of snack options each day. At snack time, students may choose two snacks—the snack of the day plus one healthy option.
A healthy option is offered every day and may include: • Cheese stick • Fresh fruit • Carrots • Go-Gurt/yogurt
The snack of the day varies and may include chips, crackers, granola bars, popcorn, Chex Mix, and other similar snacks. Fridays are “Fun Friday!” The snack of the day may be something extra fun, such as fruit roll-ups, cookies, or Rice Krispies Treats.
A healthy option is still offered alongside the Fun Friday snack. Our goal is to provide students with choices while making sure there is always a healthy option available every day.
10. Can my child's homework be done during Extended Day?
Extended Day provides 30 minutes of dedicated homework/reading time Monday through Thursday for each student group (TK–2nd and 3rd–8th grade). During this time, students are asked to work on their homework. If a student tells us they do not have homework, they are asked to choose a book and read quietly for the remainder of homework time. Extended Day staff do not know what assignments individual students have been given. We rely on students to know what homework they need to complete and to bring the necessary materials with them. Staff are available during homework time to help and support any student who needs assistance. We can encourage students to work on their homework, but if a student tells us they do not have any, we have to rely on the information they provide. Our goal is to provide a quiet, structured opportunity for students to work on their assignments, but Extended Day cannot guarantee that all homework will be completed before a student goes home.
11. How much TV are students watching during Extended Day?
Extended Day sites may choose to use the TV during the latter part of the day. The TV will not be turned on until homework time has been completed. When the TV is used, staff may select age-appropriate programming for students. There are also designated music days when the TV may be used earlier for music and movement activities. During music time, staff may use music and movement videos, dance breaks, or similar interactive activities that encourage students to get up and participate rather than simply sit and watch. The regular TV schedule may also be adjusted on rainy days when outdoor activities are limited.