Frequently Asked Questions
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Service Stars offers age-appropriate community service programs for children in elementary and middle school (grades K–8).
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Many of our programs take place at Service Stars, while others bring students into the community to work directly with local nonprofit organizations and community partners. Program locations and activities vary depending on the service project, and families will receive relevant details in advance.
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Families can register for available programs through our online registration system. Visit the program tab to explore offerings, view schedules, and complete registration.
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For after-school programs, tuition is due on or before the first of each month and is automatically charged to the credit card on file. Payment arrangements for other programs may vary.
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Yes. We require one month's advance notice to withdraw from an after-school program. Your registration deposit will be applied toward your child's final month of tuition.
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Yes! When a program reaches capacity, families may have the option to join a waitlist. If a space becomes available, we'll contact families with information about next steps for registration.
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Yes! We want Service Stars programs to be accessible to as many families as possible. Thanks to the efforts of our volunteers and donors, we are able to offer sibling and multiple program discounts in addition to financial assistance. These options are outlined on respective program registration pages. You may also contact us at info@servicestarskids.org to discuss available options.
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Cancellation policies vary by program type. Please review our full Cancellation Policy for information about notice requirements, refunds, and credits.
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While rare, Service Stars may need to cancel a program due to insufficient enrollment, severe weather, staffing, or other unforeseen circumstances. If a program is canceled by Service Stars, families will be notified as soon as possible and offered a full refund or credit toward a future program.
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Please email info@servicestarskids.org if your child will be absent or arriving late.
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For after-school programs, please send your child with a water bottle and an afternoon nut-free snack. We also provide a small nut-free snack, but encourage families to pack something their child enjoys.
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Each day is a little different depending on the service project! Our programs generally include a combination of games, service learning activities, hands-on community service projects, outdoor play, and time for reflection.
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Yes. Service Stars is a nut-free program. Please do not send food containing nuts.
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Yes. Please let us know in advance if you plan to pick up your child before 4:30 PM so we can plan accordingly.
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Some Service Stars programs include visits to local nonprofits, community organizations and other service locations. Transportation arrangements vary by program, and families will receive information about transportation, destinations, and any special instructions or waivers before the activity.
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For after-school programs, please park in the church parking lot and walk your child to the building. Ring the doorbell labeled "Service Stars" and wait for a staff member to check your child in before leaving.
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For your child's safety, we only release children to individuals listed on their authorized pick-up form. If someone else will be picking up your child, please notify us by email in advance.
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We ask families to respect scheduled pick-up times. Late pick-ups will result in additional fees, depending on how late you arrive. The applicable late pick-up fee will be added to the following month’s tuition and charged to the card on file.
First time and less than 15 minutes late – no charge
First time and more than 15 minutes late, see below
5 – 15 minutes late – $10.00
16- 30 minutes late – $25.00
Over 30 minutes late – $50.00
Cancellation fees and policies may be adjusted periodically. Our website will always reflect our most current policies.
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Service Stars follows Newton Public Schools health protocols. Families are responsible for keeping their child's health information up to date and communicating any medical changes to the program director.
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Please inform our program director of any allergies, medical conditions, or medications your child may need during programming. All required health and medication forms must be completed before medication can be administered.
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Please inform our program director of any allergies, medical conditions, or Yes, provided all required paperwork is completed. Medications must be supplied in their original containers with proper administration and dosing instructions in English. Our staff follows established procedures for storing and administering medications, including EpiPens and inhalers.
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Staff trained in CPR and First Aid can provide care for minor injuries. In the event of a serious emergency, we will contact emergency services and notify a parent or emergency contact immediately.