Classroom Guidelines
Classes start and end on time. Please make every effort to adhere to the schedule.
Please refrain from bringing food, drinks, toys or any other outside materials to class.
Cell phones must be switched off.
Students are expected to follow basic (age appropriate) classroom etiquette: taking turns to speak, keeping hands to themselves, demonstrating respect for materials, etc. If there are specific rules applicable to a location or a grade level, the teacher will clearly communicate those requirements at the start of class.
Pick-Up Policy
Parents and caregivers must be on time to pick up children. Fig Tree is unable to accommodate late class pick-ups.
Behavior Guidance and Support Policy
At Fig Tree, we handle challenging student behavior with care and compassion, using the Collaborative & Proactive Solutions (CPS) model. Instead of relying on punishment, we take time to understand what might be getting in the way for a child, listen to their perspective, and share our own concerns. From there, we work together to find solutions that feel fair and supportive to everyone. This approach not only helps resolve immediate challenges, but also builds trust, teaches problem-solving skills, and strengthens the sense of community, so every student feels seen and valued.
Single Class Cancellation Policy (due to weather, etc.)
In the event of an emergency or inclement weather during the week, Fig Tree will follow the lead of NYC Public Schools: if public school is in session, Fig Tree classes will be held. For Sunday classes, Fig Tree will proceed as scheduled as long as travel conditions (roads and subways) are safe. If a class is cancelled due to inclement weather or emergency, students in that class are welcome to come to a different class in the same curricular week for a make-up. Fig Tree will communicate cancellations via email, with as much notice as possible.
Student Illness
Children should be kept home from class if they are experiencing any of the following: Fever, vomiting, an unexplained rash, diarrhea, conjunctivitis, persistent and frequent cough that interferes with their class involvement, or any other contagious illness. A good rule of thumb is: if your child is too sick to go to school, they should stay home from Fig Tree.
Food Allergies and Sensitivities
We take food allergies and sensitivities very seriously. Parents of children with food allergies or sensitivities are invited to share that information with us in their child’s registration form. In Fig Tree classes, we occasionally taste or work with foods; in these specific scenarios where food is part of the lesson, teachers will review allergy details of all students beforehand, and will provide allergy-safe alternatives when feasible. That said, cross contamination is possible, and Fig Tree cannot guarantee allergy-sensitive classrooms or common areas in our rented spaces. Fig Tree is not responsible for managing food allergies of individual students. Parents or guardians of children with allergies understand these risks.
Make-Up Policy
If a student misses a class for any reason, they are welcome to come to a different class [in the same curricular week] for a make-up. Details about this process are provided to families at Orientation and are outlined in the Family Handbook.