Prospective Families
Welcome!
Thanks for taking the time to visit our site. We hope this information will be helpful in your selection of a preschool and/or daycare. If you have any questions, please email director@whiteplainschildrenscenter.org.
White Plains Children’s Center (WPCC) is a non-profit, 501(c)3; 5-star inclusive developmental day preschool and childcare center located in Cary, North Carolina.
We have a rich and successful history of serving communities located in western Wake County and caring for children through our inclusion program that addresses the needs of children with and without disabilities.
WPCC prides itself in being a family-oriented preschool and childcare center. Our population is small; therefore, teachers and staff learn all the children’s names … and the parents’ names as well! The staff and parents share a pot-luck meal together once per quarter. The Together Time provides a social atmosphere where parents, children and staff get to know each in a setting outside the classroom. Together Time is held at the Center at the close of the day so parents can don’t have to load up the children and return…just stay, socialize and share a meal together!
It’s All About Communications—Parents—Teachers—Staff
WPCC desires to serve families in the most effective way possible. To gain an understanding of how we can best achieve this goal, a parent survey is taken at the start and at the end of the term to ask parents a variety of questions; providing an opportunity for parents to help teachers understand their needs and the needs of their child. Throughout the year we highly encourage parents to maintain a direct line of communication with the classroom teacher on a daily basis….and we expect the same of every teacher.
We employ the best, most qualified teachers. These are caring, loving individuals who love working with your children. They understand the importance of your child’s well-being and happiness on a daily basis. We strive to make every family and every child have the best possible experience every single day while in our care!
Open Door Policy
Should a parent have a concern, of any type, we encourage conversation first with the child’s teacher; with the intention of complete resolution. When necessary, parents should exercise the open door policy with either the Associate or Executive Directors. Our experience tells us that 99.9% of all concerns are resolvable with the child’s teacher. Our teachers and staff have your child’s best interest as their ultimate daily goal. As stated, communication is the key…. talk, talk, and talk!
Parent Association
It has been proven that children have more school success when his/her parents are involved in the child’s education process; including involvement in the school. The Parent Association at WPCC is comprised of parents who desire to help meet the needs of classroom teachers, other parents and the overall success of the school. Every parent is encouraged to join and become an active participant. Over the years, some of the most long-lasting friendships between families began through the Parent Association at WPCC. Please see the information under Current Families/Parent Association to learn more about the organization.
Equal Employment Opportunity
WPCC is committed to a policy of equal employment opportunity and does not discriminate in the terms, conditions, or privileges of employment on account of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation or otherwise as may be prohibited by federal and state law.
NAEYC Code of Ethics
White Plains Children’s Center is committed to providing the current, best practices in Early Childhood Education and maintaining the highest ideals and principles as spelled out in the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Code of Ethics. All employees are expected to adhere to the NAEYC Code of Ethics.
Privacy
- Legal Responsibilities. WPCC and its employees have an ethical and legal obligation to respect the privacy of children and families in the program, and to protect and maintain the confidentiality of all information pertaining to the children, as well as their family members and friends in the course of providing services.
- WPCC complies with applicable state and federal privacy laws and regulations.
Records
- Records are not allowed to leave the building.
- The child’s parents or legal guardian shall have access to review or receive copies of desired record information. Parent/guardian requests must be made to the Executive Director.
- Records are accessible only to the lead teacher and senior staff. All records must be viewed in the administrative office to ensure privacy.
- Only the Executive Director, Finance Administrator, and Special Education staff will have access to billing and accounting records.
- All children’s records; active and inactive records are stored in locked file cabinets. The above security and privacy procedures apply for access to these records.
Assurance of Safety & Security
WPCC recognizes its obligation to children, families and employees to provide services and an environment for children/employees that are free from the influence of illegal substance, alcohol and firearms. WPCC adheres to a zero-tolerance policy to meet its obligation of 100% safety of your child.
Hours of Operation
7:00am – 6:00pm, Monday-Friday
Video Produced by Home Video Studio
Parents’ Perspective
What Past and Current Parents Have to Say About WPCC Return to top of page
The WPCC teachers took in my special needs child, showering him with love and challenges as they built a warm relationship with my typical developing daughter, understanding the challenges she faced in her life. Years later, I see the same attention and support with my youngest attending. What an amazing feeling to know all my kids have been and continue to be safe, challenged, and above all- HAPPY!
Kristine Harris , Proud WPCC Parent since 2004
Assistant Principal, Wake Co. School System
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The preschool program at White Plains is absolutely incredible. The inclusive environment provided enables special needs children to be integrated with typically developing children, which benefits both groups. Special Needs children are able to model behaviors from their typical peers and typical children learn to interact with all kinds of children. I searched long and hard for such a program and it was the only one in the area I could find that provided this unique environment.
The teachers were outstanding – truly compassionate, loving, thoughtful and dedicated. White Plains was my son’s first experience with preschool and I felt completely comfortable with the staff there. He grew and developed significantly in the time he spent there. I highly recommend White Plains to all parents. We drove 45 minutes each way to take him to White Plains and it was absolutely worth it.
Beth Prichard, mother of Alex (2007-2008)
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White Plains Children’s Center is responsible for breaking down the barriers that kept our child from a normal, happy childhood. The understanding, warmth, compassion, and joy he’s experienced there is nothing like any other school or daycare he’s ever been to. We’re exceedingly grateful for everything the wonderful teachers and staff have done for him and our family.
Erica Reeder & Ken Vahn, parents of Alex (2011)
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My daughter is today completing her last day at WPCC before starting kindergarten. My son will stay at WP for 2 more years. My daughter started at WP within a month of turning 1, in 2006. We were frustrated that the daycare she was attending at the time seemed to do nothing more than feed and change the infants. Regardless of what time of day I went in (and I went in at all different times), there was little to no interaction with any of the babies. So we shopped around and found White Plains. As a Methodist pastor, I was glad to find a place inside another Methodist church. However, we chose White Plains for other reasons as well. The cost for this 5 star, nationally accredited facility was only slightly more than what we were paying at the time for a 4 star, non-accredited facility. We wanted our daughter/children to be exposed to children with special needs so they would be comfortable around children who may be a little different. We have not once regretted our decision to be at White Plains. The month after our son turned one, he, too, was enrolled at the school. The love and compassion of the teachers has kept us at this school. Even as tuition prices rose and our own income shrank, we never seriously considered moving our kids from WP. It just wasn’t an option. The teachers truly care about each of the children. Hugs and cuddles are given out without hesitation. Teachers are always happy to talk with the parents, both formally and informally. No one is ever satisfied with the way things are (even though things are good) but instead there is always a desire to continue to improve WPCC. In other words, I feel that the parents and the staff all agree that we should not settle for what is but instead keep working to be better. The lead teachers make the lessons fun for the kids and understand that children learn through play. We have been thoroughly impressed with the quality of the teachers, the staff, and the care at White Plains. We have recommended the school to several people (although none of them live close enough to take advantage of the opportunity). We know that our daughter is fully prepared for Kindergarten because of her experience at White Plains, and I have no doubts our son will be just as prepared when his time comes. We have no regrets for having spent the money we have at this school.
Heather Herrin Wong, mother of Samantha, class of ’11 and of Matthew, class of ’13
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WPCC has tremendously helped our daughter. It was very challenging to find an inclusive environment that was going to help her continue to develop in areas where she is experiencing some delays. We researched schools all over the county and we are so glad that a friend referred us to this organization. The teachers and the staff are fantastic. They are very easy to work with and they go above and beyond to ensure that your child succeeds. It’s been wonderful to watch our daughter blossom.
Teri Harrell, mother of Keira (2011)
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As a teacher, a developmental therapist and a parent, I know that an inclusive setting is beneficial to all children, especially when it is skillfully managed by caring and imaginative teachers. The teachers at White Plains have a wealth of knowledge and experience. They look at each child as an individual, working to meet their needs and help them reach their full potential.
Kerry McCarthy Adams, mother of Elliott (2008-2012)
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My son has been at White Plains Children’s Center since he was 12 months old. He is now 4 and going into his last year at preschool. He loves going to school and we feel this reflects on the kind of care he receives at White Plains. The staff knows all of the children – even if they are not the child’s teacher - and there is an atmosphere of caring and support at the school.
Cynthia , mother of Matthew (Class of 2012)
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Isabella has thrived in her 3 years at White Plains Children’s Center. She is excited to go to “school” every day and see teachers and peers. Isabella has become a confident child with a love of learning. I attribute Isabella’s success to the great leadership and to the dedicated teaching staff. If I ever have children in the future they will attend WPCC as well. Isabella and I both love the environment and the attitudes of the staff.
Alexandria Ray, mother of Isabella (2008-current)
Meet Our Teachers and Staff Return to top of page
Ruth Miller, B.A. Psychology and Elementary Education, M.Ed. Special Education, Executive Director
Ruth joined the staff at WPCC on October 1st, 2009. Her early childhood education career spans over 30 years as a classroom teacher, director, and 18 years as special services coordinator for children birth to five. All of these settings were inclusive; serving young children with and without disabilities.
Ruth’s BA is Elementary Education and Psychology, and an MEd. in Special Education with the focus on inclusion and early development. She also has attained the Administrative III Credentials. Her keen interest in inclusion is based on her own experiences of inclusion in throughout her entire school career; from nursery school through graduate school as a deaf person. Ruth’s interests include reading, gardening, good food, photography and Ramona, a 15 year old Jack Russell.
Tiffany Harris, B.S. Human Sciences (Family Relations and Child Development), MBA
Associate Director
Tiffany received a B.S. in Human Sciences with a Concentration in Family Relations and Child Development. Some years later, she received a Master of Business Administration. Tiffany has over 13 years of experience in the child care environment. Tiffany joined White Plains in January 2005. She enjoys traveling and photography.
Cathy Frederick, ITFS, B.S. Psychology, M.Ed. Special Education, Early Intervention Special Education Coordinator
Cathy received her B.S. in Psychology from the College of Charleston, Charleston, SC. She graduated from NC State University with a Master of Education; with an emphasis in Behavior and Emotional Handicaps.
Cathy is also certified as an Infant Toddler Family Specialist. She enjoys working with children and families to assist them in achieving the goals on their Individual Family Service Plan, and giving input for the transition process to the Wake County Public School System. Cathy’s interests include music, fitness, psychology, philosophy and law.
Wendy Partin, B.S. Special Education, B-K Add-on Program, Preschool Services Special Education Coordinator
Wendy has worked with children with special needs and their families for over 14 years. She is an East Carolina graduate and avid fan! She and her husband are raising their 3 children in Cary, where she was born and raised. Her favorite things to do are spending time with family at the beach, reading, and practicing Yoga.
Ann Carney, Finance Administrator
Ann joined the staff in January, 2005. She has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the Indiana University of Pennsylvania with a major in Accounting and a minor in Finance. Prior to working at White Plains Children’s Center, Ann was a Bank Auditor for Mellon Bank Corporation, worked as a Fiduciary Tax Preparer and Supervisor at KeyCorp and spent several years preparing individual tax returns for H&R Block.
Ann enjoys scrap-booking, card making and attending her children’s many sports, musical and other activities. She is actively involved in the local band booster organization and also assists with boy scouting activities.
Carol Smith Boykin, Cook/ Food Service Specialist
Carol joined the staff at WPCC 12 years ago. She says, “I love my job and the children. These children feed my heart”. Her interests include swimming, tanning, gardening, reading and cooking.
Sara Johnson Ward, Lead Teacher, Chipmunks
Sara holds an Associate’s in Early Childhood Education from Wake Tech and a BS in Birth – Kindergarten Education from UNC-Greensboro. Sara has been working with children since 1997 when she joined an AmeriCorps program working in low-economic areas with children and families.
Sara loves being outside and spending time with her dog Mercy. She also enjoys reading and crossword puzzles.
Nicole Butters, Lead Teacher, Bears
Nicole has a bachelor’s degree in Special Education: General Curriculum from UNCG. She is a licensed NC teacher and currently in the process of getting a Birth-Kindergarten add-on license. Nicole has taught in Wake County School System as a resource teacher for kindergarten and first grade students before joining the White Plains staff in August 2010. In her free time she enjoys sewing, spending time with family and friends, shopping and working out.
Juanita Wooten, Lead Teacher, Pandas
Juanita received her Associate Degree in Human Service/Mental health in 2008 from Pitt Community College. She later obtained a B.S. in Early Childhood from Mount Olive College. Juanita has four years of experience working with typical and special needs children. She enjoys reading books, shopping and spending time with family and friends.
Terri Pratt, Lead Teacher, Cubs
Terri has been working with preschool children for 21 years, with 10 of those years at White Plains. Her BA degree is in English from Indiana University, and she has taken several classes toward a Masters Degree in Early Childhood/Special Education. She also tutors children in reading, using the Wilson Reading System.
Caitlin Redden, Teacher
Caitlin has earned her early childhood associate certificate and her infant/toddler-care certificate. She has 2 years experience in child care. Her main interests are in various sports.
Amanda Boykin, Teacher
Amanda has earned her NC Early Childhood Credentials and has over 9 years experience working with children. She joined White Plains Children’s Center in 2004. Her primary interest is her 4 year old son and all the children at White Plains. Her past-time and hobbies are anything dealing with arts and crafts, swimming or just laying by the pool.
Tasia McDonald, Teacher
Tasia attended Wake Technical Community College and obtained the Early Childhood Education Certificate. She has been on the staff for 6 years. Tasia said, “The past 6 years at WPCC have been the most rewarding, enjoyable and BEST experience I have had!” Besides her passion for being a Teacher, she also enjoys babysitting, social gatherings and spending lots of time with my family and friends.
Maria Paniagua, Teacher
Maria has earned the NC Child Care Credentials 1 & 2 and Early Educator Certification. She began her experience in child care by interning while in school and started working with the WPCC family in 2005. In her free time she enjoys spending time with her two beautiful daughters, her husband, and family. She also enjoys shopping and scrap-booking.
Ann R. Aycock, Teacher
Ann has 10 years as a home-daycare-provider and 20 years of service at White Plains; beginning full-time in 1993. She holds an Early Childhood Associate Degree and the NC Child Care Credentials 1 & 2. She has completed over 300 hours of Early Childhood workshops over the past 20 years.
Ann says, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience of working with the children and the parents. When working with children you become easily attached to them and enjoy the smiles on their faces each day. This can really make the entire day worthwhile.” Ann’s hobbies and interests include spending time with her four grandchildren, going to yard sales with friends, Sudoku puzzles, family vacations, and swimming with her grandchildren.
Michelle Milligan, Teacher
Michelle has been with WPCC for over three years and in childcare for over five years. She has taken courses in both Early Childhood and Special Education at East Carolina University where. Michelle says, “I love working and playing with the three to five year olds in the Chipmunk class. They make coming to work fun!” When she isn’t at work, Michelle enjoys reading, scrap-booking and photography.
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Schedule Options
WPCC currently offers full-time daycare for ages 2-5 years, full-time developmental day for ages 2-5 years, preschool for ages 4-5 years and part-time (Tues. & Thurs.) for daycare and developmental day for ages 2-3 years.
Schedule A Tour
We would love to meet you!
To schedule a tour of our facility, please contact our Associate Director.
(919) 469-2217 ext. 248 or click here to send request or email at: program@whiteplainschildrenscenter.org
Enrollment & Application Process
Children with disabilities, from 2 to 3 years of age, must apply through the Child Development Services Agency. Contact our Early Intervention Special Education Coordinator at 919-469-2217, ext. 249 for more information about the Early Intervention program.
Children with disabilities, from 3 to 5 years of age must be evaluated by Wake County Public Schools for placement at WPCC. Contact our Preschool Services Special Education Coordinator at 919-469-2217, ext. 251 for more information about the placement process.
Children who are developing typically may apply by using the easy 4-step application process listed below:
- Download the WPCC Application form to your computer. Fill it out on the computer then ‘save-as’; using your name as the name of the file. Open the email address in step 2 below. Attach the completed application in the email. If you have a desired date for the tour, please include in your email.
- Set up an appointment for a personal tour for parent(s). Contact our Associate Director at 919-469-2217, ext. 248 or send an email to program@whiteplainschildrenscenter.org.
- Take a parent/child tour of the Center. We’d like for your child to visit the classroom and meet the teachers. You may return to the classroom for the child’s tour at the conclusion of the parent tour.
- If a space is available in the appropriate classroom, and a decision is made by the parent(s) to enroll your child, we require the enrollment (non-refundable) registration fee be paid prior to receiving the enrollment packet. All forms in the packet must be complete and submitted to the Associate Director at least 3 days before the child’s first day of attendance. Once forms are received, a start date will be set.
Transition: If you believe your child will benefit from a transition period from her/his current situation; home or other center, we’re happy to work with you so your child is acclimated to WPCC before beginning.
If there is not a space available for your child, we will be happy to add your name to our wait list. We will contact you when there is an opening.
If you would like to know more about WPCC, feel free to call our Associate Director @ 919-469-2217, ext. 248 or send an email to program@whiteplainschildrenscenter.org or director@whiteplainschildrenscenter.org
Tuition Information
Tuition at WPCC is determined by conducting a competitive/comparative analysis of for-profit and not-for-profit childcare and developmental-day centers is our geographical area.
Scholarship Information Return to top of page
Scholarship applications are available to families who need assistance with tuition. Scholarships are awarded on a sliding scale basis. The scale is modeled from Wake County Human Services need-basis scale.
The first step in the scholarship process is to submit an application and speak with the Associate Director about classroom availability for your child(ren). If space is available, you must schedule a tour with the Associate Director. Pending your decision to place your child(ren) with us, you will begin the scholarship process.
Please read and follow the application process information found under the menu item, “Application Process”.
School Calendar
The calendar is, in part, based on the traditional-school model, set by Wake County Public Schools. WPCC operates year-round. One week during the summer is set aside for staff development week. The Center will be closed during that week.
Parent Resources
Telability
TelAbility is an innovative, community oriented, interdisciplinary program from the UNC Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation that uses telecommunications to improve the lives of children with disabilities. Using real time video-conferencing and internet technologies, TelAbility provides comprehensive, coordinated, family centered care to children with disabilities across North Carolina and offers education, training, and peer support for people who care for them.
www.projectenlightenment.wcpss.net They have a great resource center/library.
Signs of Learning creates an educational and fun atmosphere where babies and young children, as well as their parents, educators, and caregivers, learn the basics of American Sign Language (ASL). A basic ASL vocabulary can empower children to express their needs and feelings before they can speak.
The website provides free, easy-to-use reference and learning tools to enhance in-classroom learning for ASL Educators and their Students.
The Arc of Wake County partners with people with developmental disabilities and their families to help them achieve their life goals.
First In Families of North Carolina, FIFNC, helps people with developmental disabilities and their families to create the lives they want now and for the future and provides guidance and oversight to local First In Families Chapters.
Triangle Down Syndrome Network
Triangle Down Syndrome Network exists to support and connect families of children with Down syndrome by organizing and promoting activities.
Autism Society Network
www.autismsociety-nc.org
ASNC is a leading resource in North Carolina for connecting people who live with autism, and those who care about them, with resources, support, advocacy and information tailored to their unique needs.
Family Support Network
www.familysupportonline.org
Wake County Special Education & Inclusion Committee (formally the Special Education PTA – SEPTA): www.wake-seic.org
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