Description: Located in Williston, Vermont, The Bellwether School Preschool offers a nurturing, relationship-based early childhood program grounded in respect for each child¿s individuality, curiosity, and developmental pace. The program is designed to support the whole child¿socially, emotionally, physically, and cognitively¿through meaningful, play-based learning experiences. Bellwether¿s philosophy centers on the belief that young children learn best through exploration, connection, and a strong sense of belonging. Teachers create a thoughtfully prepared environment that invites inquiry, creativity, and collaboration, while providing consistent structure and emotional support. The curriculum is emergent and responsive, shaped by children¿s interests and guided by skilled educators who observe, document, and extend learning in intentional ways. A key component of the program is its emphasis on relationships. Educators prioritize building strong, trusting connections with children and families, fostering open communication and a sense of partnership. Social-emotional development is at the heart of the classroom experience, with children supported in developing empathy, resilience, and problem-solving skills. Bellwether also values time outdoors as an essential part of early learning. Children engage regularly with the natural environment, supporting physical development, risk assessment, and a deeper connection to the world around them. The program is committed to equity and accessibility, striving to create an inclusive community where all families feel welcomed and supported. Bellwether serves children ages 3-6 and roughly follows the public-school calendar year. Hours of operation are 8:30-3:00 and families may choose 5 days, 3 days (M,W,F), or 2 days (T-Th).
Additional Information: Initial License Date: 03/30/2005; 5 Star Early Childhood Program - Licensed Provider; Sibling Discount Available; Area Description: Fenced Yard, Smoke Free; Program Meals: Allergy Awareness;Where possible, ChildcareCenter provides inspection reports as a service to families. This information is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed. We encourage families to contact the daycare provider directly with any questions or concerns, as the provider may have already addressed some or all issues. Reports can also be verified with your local daycare licensing office.
| Type | Create Date | Due Date | Corrected Date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Violation | 2023-09-13 | 2023-09-21 | 2023-09-22 | Final |
| Regulation/Restriction: 3.7.3: Emergency Preparedness Training: Within 365 days of opening a CBCCPP, the licensee shall attend emergency preparedness training which shall include content specifically related to sheltering in place in the event of an emergency in which the licensee and children present need to remain in the CBCCPP for an extended period. | ||||
| Violation | 2023-09-13 | 2023-09-29 | 2023-09-22 | Final |
| Regulation/Restriction: 3.7.1.1: The licensee shall develop and maintain a written Emergency Response Plan to respond to a full range of emergencies both natural and man-made. A complete plan shall include how the licensee will address and manage the following situations and responsibilities: Evacuations or other emergencies such as leaving the premise and lockdown situations; Specific concerns related to the location of the program, such as proximity to a nuclear reactor, an area prone to flooding or power loss; Notifying the local authorities of the emergency; A system for notifying the parents of the emergency; Notifying the local emergency planning committee regarding the location of the CBCCPP and using the committee as a resource in emergency planning for the program; A system of identifying the children and staff present at the time of the emergency and maintaining knowledge of their whereabouts; A system for handling infants, toddlers, and children with special needs; An established evacuation meeting location within walking distance of the CBCCPP; A system to account for all children and staff at the evacuation meeting place; A process for relocation if necessary, including safe transportation; A system for shelter in place if the staff and children present need to remain in the CBCCPP for an extended period; and Staff chain of command and individual staff roles and responsibilities, (if applicable) during emergencies. | ||||
| Violation | 2021-11-10 | 2021-11-30 | Final | |
| Regulation/Restriction: 7.3.1.3: The program director of a CBCCPP licensed to serve thirteen (13) - fifty-nine (59) children shall be qualified as a teacher associate, and shall have completed either: * A Vermont Early Childhood and Afterschool Program Director Step One (1) Certificate; or * Successful completion of a three (3) college credit course in program management for early care and education or for school age care and education, or in staff supervision related to early care and education of children; and a three (3) college credit course in curriculum. | ||||
| Violation | 2021-11-10 | 2021-11-30 | 2021-11-23 | Final |
| Regulation/Restriction: 5.1.2: General Health Examinations: Within forty-five (45) days of enrollment, the licensee shall obtain documentation of the child's age appropriate well care exam from the parent. Documentation shall include information regarding any health conditions and medications that may impact the care of the child. | ||||
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