BCYC Parent Handbook

Belton Christian Youth Center

Parent / Member Handbook

Serving Bell County Since 1982

Belton Christian Youth Center adheres to the policies laid out in this handbook as well as the Texas Health and Human Services minimum standards for School-Age Programs as laid out in Chapter 744 of the Texas Administration Code.

Code of Conduct

One of Belton Christian Youth Center’s core commitments is to provide a safe, welcoming environment where members can learn, grow, and thrive. Positive attitudes and respectful behavior help keep the Center a fun and encouraging place for everyone.

Members are expected to:

  • Respect themselves, fellow members, and staff
  • Play fair and act honestly
  • Applaud and encourage the efforts of others
  • Use appropriate language
  • Dress appropriately at all times

As a Christ-centered organization, BCYC seeks to reflect these values throughout our After School, Summer Camp, and Athletics programs and within the broader community.

Center Rules

To ensure safety and consistency, the following rules apply at all times:

  • Alcohol, tobacco, drugs, and weapons are strictly prohibited on BCYC property.
  • Cursing, profanity, or abusive language is not permitted. Excessive use may result in a 1–2 day suspension.
  • No fighting. Any involvement in a physical altercation will result in parent/guardian consultation and a mandatory two-day suspension.
  • Running inside the building is not allowed unless permitted by staff or in designated areas.
  • Members are expected to care for Center equipment and facilities. Parents/guardians are financially responsible for intentional damage caused by their child.
  • Food and drinks are only allowed in the cafeteria or during designated events (such as movie days). Gum is not permitted in any BCYC room.
  • Transportation plans should be discussed daily with your child to ensure they depart with an authorized person.
  • BCYC maintains a lost-and-found. Items not claimed within two weeks will be donated to a local charity.
  • Members participating in field trips must leave and return with the Center.
  • At drop-off, a parent or guardian must walk the child to the front desk and ensure proper sign-in before leaving.
    • Children may never be dropped off at the pavilion and left unattended.

Supervision, Membership, and Volunteers

BCYC staff are trained Youth Development Professionals and are supported by trained volunteers. Each program area is supervised by staff and/or approved volunteers. Members are expected to follow all instructions given by staff or volunteers at all times.

Membership Information

  • Membership is open to youth ages 5 (and enrolled in Kindergarten) through 13.
    • Pre-K 4 students enrolled in a TEA/State certified Pre-K program are eligible to attend during the school year provided BCYC picks up from that school.
  • A completed membership application, signed by a parent or guardian, is required and must be renewed annually.
  • The registration fee is $75, a one-time program fee added to the cost of membership rates.
  • Membership rates vary by program. Please contact the front office for current rates.
  • Membership is not prorated for partial periods.
  • The membership period is program-based:
    • Afterschool program runs August–May
    • Holiday program runs August-May and only covers BISD holidays for which BCYC is open
    • Summer Camp program runs during BISD summer vacation
  • Additional fees may apply for special events, athletics, or field trips. BCYC is committed to keeping membership costs as affordable as possible so no family is excluded due to financial circumstances.

Memberships are program based and do not carry over into the next program enrollment.

Accurate and current contact information is essential and must be kept up to date by the parent/guardian. Full applications will be filled out every program as per State Licensing standards.

Membership at BCYC is a privilege, not a right. The Center reserves the right to deny or revoke membership at any time, with or without cause.

Volunteers

Volunteers are vital to the BCYC experience. All volunteers must complete an application and pass a background check before working with members.

Center Hours and Closures

  • School Days: Monday–Friday, ‘School Dismissal’ – 6:00 p.m.
  • School Holidays & Summer: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. (most days school is not in session)

BCYC will be closed on recognized holidays including:
Marin Luther King Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Wed-Fri of Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve through New Years Day and other posted closures as per our annual operating calendar which can be found online or in the office.

The Center will not be open on days the local school district is closed due to bad weather.

Temporary closures for training, emergencies, or unforeseen circumstances will be communicated as early as possible.

Drop-Off and Pick-Up Policies

  • After-School Members who get dropped off for any reason may not be dropped off before 3:15 p.m. unless otherwise scheduled.
  • Pick-up must occur by 6:00 p.m.
  • A late fee of $10 applies after 6:00 p.m., with $1 per minute charged after 6:10 p.m.
  • BCYC reserves the right to contact authorities if a member is not picked up within a reasonable time after all emergency contacts have been exhausted.

Only individuals listed on the approved pick-up list may pick up a member. Identification may be required. Individuals under 18 are not permitted to pick up members.

Personal Belongings & Electronics

  • BCYC phones are for Center business only.
  • Members may keep personal phones in their bags, but usage is limited and must not disrupt programming.
  • Phones or devices used inappropriately will be collected and returned to parents at pick-up.
  • Handheld electronics are discouraged and may only be used during designated free time.
  • BCYC is not responsible for lost, damaged, or stolen personal items.
  • All belongings should be clearly labeled.

Health, Safety, and Accidents

BCYC does not provide medical insurance for members. The completed membership packet authorizes staff to seek medical treatment if necessary, at the parent/guardian’s expense.

In the event of a medical emergency:

  • 911 will be called first
  • Parents/guardians and emergency contacts will be notified immediately

Contagious Conditions & Infestations

If a contagious condition or infestation is suspected:

  • Parents will be contacted for immediate pickup
  • Proof of treatment and written approval from the Unit Director are required before return

Conditions include but are not limited to lice, strep throat, flu, pink eye, and impetigo.

Discipline Policy

BCYC uses clear, appropriate, and timely discipline to maintain a safe environment for all members.

Disciplinary actions may include:

  • Verbal counseling
  • Time-out
  • Loss of privileges
  • Suspension (temporary or permanent)
  • Expulsion
  • Contacting authorities when laws are broken

Failure to respond appropriately to discipline may result in increased consequences. Parents are encouraged to contact the Center with questions regarding disciplinary actions.

Dress Code

Members should dress comfortably and appropriately for active participation.

  • Shoes and socks must be worn at all times
  • Flip-flops, sandals, cleats, and open-toed shoes are discouraged
  • Excessive jewelry is not permitted
  • Inappropriate, revealing, or offensive clothing is prohibited
  • Swimwear must meet Center guidelines (see Director for details)

BCYC follows BISD dress standards and reserves the right to enforce additional safety-related requirements.

Transportation

After-school transportation is provided to applicable elementary middle schools as stated on registration forms and informational flyers/sites. By enrolling, parents authorize BCYC transportation and emergency medical response if needed.

Zero tolerance behaviors on BCYC transportation include:

  • Disobeying the driver
  • Fighting, bullying, or disrespect
  • Standing or unsafe seating
  • Throwing objects
  • Profanity or inappropriate language
  • Possession of prohibited items

Transportation privileges may be revoked without refund.

Food & Nutrition

BCYC promotes healthy eating habits. Snack policies vary by program. Water bottles are strongly encouraged, especially during summer months.

Dietary restrictions require a doctor’s note for accommodation.

Parent Concerns & Open-Door Policy

Parents are encouraged to address concerns with the Center Director. Written complaints may be submitted through the front office if needed.

BCYC maintains an open-door policy during operating hours. Members must be signed in to be on Center grounds.

Contact Information

📧 admin@beltonyouth.com

Parent Acknowledgement

I acknowledge that I have read and understand the policies outlined in this handbook and agree to support my child in following them. I understand that violations may result in suspension or termination of membership. I acknowledge that this handbook is informational and does not constitute a contract.

**Acknowledgement signatures will be collected on application and enrollment paperwork**

 

Updated 2/9/2026