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Center policies
Hours
The center is open 7:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, except for the University closure period in December, University holidays, and two staff training days (spring and fall). The center is open between semesters and during spring break.
University holidays
The yearly calendar for WMU Children's Place matches Western Michigan University's calendar. Although the center is open between terms and during spring break, parents whose children don't attend are not charged for these times. Parents will be provided a schedule at the beginning of each academic term.
The center is closed the week of winter closure at the end of December and on the following University holidays:
| Labor Day Recess | First Monday in September |
| Thanksgiving Break | Fourth Thursday and Friday in November |
| Winter Closure | End of December, days vary each year |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Third Monday in January |
| Memorial Day | Last Monday in May |
| Independence Day | July 4 |
Ratios
The ratio of teachers to toddlers never exceeds 1:4. WMU Children's Place more frequently provides a 1:3 ratio, allowing a stronger bond between teachers and children.
The teacher:student ratio for children between 2 1/2 and 3 years old never exceeds 1:8. For preschoolers over the age 3 the ratio never exceeds 1:10. WMU Children's Place strives for a ratio of 1:8 for all preschoolers to allow for more individualized attention and better quality care.
The teacher:student ratio for school-age children (those having completed Kindergarten) never exceeds the licensing limit of 1:20. WMU Children's Place strives to provide at least a 1:12 ratio to provide more flexibility, more individualized attention and better quality care for the school-age children.
Safety
WMU Children's Place Learning Center adheres strictly to Licensing Regulations, written and enforced by the Michigan Department of Consumer and Industry Services, as well as the laws of the State of Michigan which require "child care workers to report any child abuse and neglect" to Children's Protective Services. Depending upon the severity of the abuse or neglect, parents may or may not be forwarned prior to our contact with Children's Protective Services.
WMU Children's Place Learning Center conducts a criminal history check on all employees and volunteers working with or around the children.