Frequently Asked Questions

How do you guarantee that employees are safe to work with children?

The Department of Social Services requires that all licensed child care centers conduct background checks on all potential employees and volunteers. Background checks include but are not limited to, SLED/FBI, Central Registry Check, Health Assessment, and a TB Check.

How do you keep the information confidential?

The Academy has a confidentiality policy that protects our families’ and employees’ personal information. The Academy has a zero-tolerance policy if confidential information is inappropriately released. The Academy also ensures that all enrollment and employee documents are locked safely in the Director’s Office.

Will teachers share information with parents about their child’s development?

At the parent’s request, we are open to scheduling parent-teacher conferences throughout the year to discuss your child’s development, progress, and/or challenges. We encourage our team to communicate with parents daily/weekly through verbal and written contact.

What is the enrollment process?

Interested families will be offered a tour of the Academy. Once a spot is available, families will pay the annual registration fee and the first week of tuition before starting. Enrollment is based on a two-week trial basis in which the Academy wants to make sure the relationship is a good fit for our Aspire family and your family as well.

Are tuition payments due weekly and what are the payment options?

Tuition payments are due on Mondays of each week that you are receiving services. Parents are welcome to pay bi-weekly or monthly as long as the payments are made in advance. The Academy incorporates an annual registration fee of $125.00 per family that is due upon enrollment and every August in which the child is enrolled, starting with the next calendar year. If there is a break in service, a new registration fee will be due upon re-enrollment.

Do you accept ABC Vouchers?

Yes, we accept payments from the South Carolina Voucher program. Families who receive the vouchers are responsible for paying the difference in tuition payments and/or registration fees.

What is your tuition payment policy?

Payments for tuition, annual registration fee, and additional program activities are to be made through our online Parent Portal. In the Parent Portal, families are able to update secure billing information, contact information, children’s information, and print off financial statements up to 90 days.

Do you charge late payment fees?

Family accounts with a balance at closing on Tuesdays are charged a $25.00 late payment fee. Children are unable to return the following week if tuition payments, late fee payments, and/or additional fees are not paid in full.

What is the refund policy?

Payments submitted for the annual registration fee and weekly tuition are not eligible for a refund, nor transferrable to another family. There are no exceptions. Account credits may be provided on a case-by-case basis. Field trips and enrichment programs are also reviewed on a case-by-case basis.