Frequently Asked Questions
Q. We are expecting a baby. When should I start looking for child care?
Right away! Many childcares have a waitlist, and you may encounter wait times up to a year in length. Visit each location that meets your needs as early as possible, and if you find a place that feels right for your family, go ahead and reserve the spot. This helps you and your selected child care plan for your future new arrival.
Q. How do I reserve a spot for my child at Compass Academy?
We are excited to welcome your child to our program! To hold your spot, there is a one-time non-refundable registration fee of $200 plus a $300 non-refundable deposit that applies toward your first month’s tuition. We offer a grace period of two weeks from your designated start date as we know babies don’t always arrive on time, and life circumstances can fluctuate. If, for any reason, you choose not to attend, your child’s spot will be released. If you decide to enroll at a later date, you will have to re-register.
Q. Is there a Waitlist?
Yes, there is usually a Waitlist, and the wait time can vary. To join the waitlist, please contact us via the website Contact form, email us, or call the office directly. There is a $100 non-refundable fee to join the Waitlist.
Q. What are the age ranges served and the tuition rate for each level?
We accept children for our childcare program between the ages of 6 weeks and 5 years old. For detailed tuition and payment information, please call or email the office.
Q. Does Compass Academy offer full-time or part-time child care programs?
We are pleased to offer both Full Day and Half Day programs. Our Half Day program is from 9am-1pm. Additionally, we offer both Full Week or Partial Week options, consisting of either a 2 day, 3 day or a 5 day week. You must select your day length and weekly attendance plan upon registration and commit to that time and day schedule so we can staff and prepare for each week appropriately. Please note, the Half Day program is not available for the Infant age group.
Q. What kind of curriculum and learning philosophies are followed?
Compass Academy embraces an eclectic mix of Montessori, Reggio Emilia Inspired learning, and the play method. We believe children learn naturally through playing and exploring the world around them. To support these values, we created a natural learning ambiance with organic practices utilizing indoor and outdoor classrooms. In everything we do, we are as eco-friendly as possible. Our ultimate goal is to provide an experience that contributes to the development of happy, confident children who can be seamlessly integrated into a mainstream school
Q. How are tuition payments handled?
Tuition is paid monthly. You have the option to set up a fee-free Autopay with your bank, or you can use a credit card with an additional 3% convenience fee per transaction. Tuition is charged between the 1st and the 5th of every month.
Q. How does Compass Academy communicate with parents, and what kind of communication can parents expect to receive?
Parents are encouraged to download the Brightwheel and Whatsapp applications on their smartphones. We use these apps to communicate and send pictures by authorized personnel. Your child’s academic progress will also be shared via the Brightwheel app.
Q. What holiday schedule does Compass Academy follow?
The yearly calendar is available on the Resources tab of the website. We closely follow the Cobb County School system calendar with minor exceptions. Any changes to the calendar will be communicated as soon as possible.
Q. What safety measures are in place to make sure my child is secure?
We are concerned about your child’s health and safety in everything we do. Our building meets all of the City of Smyrna's codes and guidelines for child safety. We feature a double-locked door system and security cameras. We also have a contract with a reputable alarm company to assist us in the unlikely event of an emergency. Only authorized parents with key codes may enter the building. No child will be released from the center without prior authorization from the parents, and any authorized individuals must present a valid ID to verify their identity.
Q. What meals do you serve?
We serve breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Fresh fruit and organic options are an important priority and are served when possible. Half Day preschool students receive lunch only.
Q. Is English the only language spoken at Compass Academy?
We offer a dual language program. English and Spanish are used interchangeably, and we have integrated Spanish classes into our curriculum.
Q. Is Compass Academy currently hiring staff members?
We are always looking to expand our family! If you love children, enjoy laughing, and have a passion for learning from the world around you, we would love to talk to you. Please fill out the Contact Us form and inquire about current positions that may be open.