onboarding

All new employees undergo a 90-day on-the-job training period. The training period provides an opportunity for both of us to determine whether we’re a good fit. The first 2 weeks of training are orientation. During those 2 weeks, the employee works closely with the director and team members to become familiar with First Circle’s policies, practices, and philosophies, and to shadow in the classroom. The New Employee Orientation includes:

• detailed tour of the center
• meeting with members of the Executive Admin Team
• review of
  • the Employee Handbook, including job description, personnel policies, statement of purpose, statement of non-discrimination
  • health care policy, including medication administration policies and infant sleeping positions
  • information contained in the children’s records that is pertinent to the education and care of the children
  • the program’s confidentiality policy; child guidance policies and procedures for protecting children from abuse and neglect
  • suspension and termination policy
  • emergency plans and procedures
  • program plans
  • referral procedures
  • transportation plans
  • procedures for parent visits, input, conferences, and communication
  • the identification of the Department of Early Education and Care as the licensing authority
  • notification that 102 CMR 1.00 and 606 CMR 7.00 and 14.00 are available at the program site
• opportunities for the new employee to ask questions and discuss issues
• EEC’s required coursework
• introduction to all staff and children in the relevant classroom(s)
• review of the classroom(s) curriculum and daily schedule

Employees must sign an Employee Handbook sign-off form confirming that they have received, read, and understand the contents.

materials

All employees receive a link to the Employee Handbook, which contains all regulations, policies, procedures, and information pertaining to employment responsibilities, compensation and benefits, and employment policies. The handbook has information to support and guide the implementation of First Circle policy and practices in the classroom, with children and families, and with peers.

training period

During the remainder of the 90-day training period, the director and other staff will mentor the new employee, regularly observe and meet with the employee to oversee their training and provide support and assistance. Any new employee who does not meet First Circle’s performance standards during the training period may be dismissed without a warning.

At the end of 90 days, new employees meet with the director for a 90-day written review. Any areas needing improvement will be identified and a plan devised to assist the employee in meeting the established performance goals. Completion of the training period does not change the employee-at-will status.

mentoring

We use our experienced staff as a resource in the orientation process. Depending on your role, you’ll be paired with a veteran staff member who will communicate our high standards of excellence for safety, policy, quality care, and education. Take this time as an opportunity to learn our daily routines and ask questions.