Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the “teachers” at Lab School?
Lab School Faculty members are trained, college-degreed professionals, and experienced
parents themselves. They are caring, nurturing specialists who receive ongoing training
covering current research, child rearing information, and techniques. All BCC personnel are
fingerprinted and screened through law enforcement background checks.
Why does Lab School ask parents to attend as well as children?
Parents and family are the most important influence in a child’s early years. At Lab School, the
parents are the students, learning about themselves as well as their children. As parents learn
with their child and use their new skills at home, every family member grows and benefits.
Parents also develop friendships and a community of support to enjoy for years to come.
Lab School is a parent cooperative. What does that mean?
Lab School parents work together with faculty and staff to make the learning environment for
their children. Active involvement in the classroom increases the bonding between parent and
child, and between the parents. The type of involvement changes as the children grow older and
their educational needs change. See Programs on this web for a detailed description.
I have difficulty getting babysitters for the night meetings. What can I do?
Families may work together to provide onsite babysitting. Other classes have parents who can
share babysitting with you, or may know of a babysitter you can use. Parents working together
to help each other is part of the Lab School Program, and the faculty will assist in any way
possible.
My spouse is often out of town. How can we share the information if one of us is
not here?
Lab School is part of Brevard Community College and has access to the ANGEL classroom
system, an online site where parent educators can provide information to students. Although
nothing replaces being present for meetings, it is understandable that there might be a time
when absence is unavoidable, and the online classroom can provide information.
I work during the days. Can I still participate in Lab School?
Although it is best for a parent to be present during the day class, your child can come with
another adult caregiver. This can be a grandparent, aunt or uncle, nanny, or other caring adult
you trust with your child. Parents will attend the evening classes, allowing both parents and child
to get the benefits of Lab School.
My child has a food allergy. Will Lab School accommodate this?
Lab School offers a safe learning environment for all children. When children have an allergy or
other need, the whole class is made aware and works together to ensure the child’s safe
participation at school.
Does my child have to be potty trained to participate at Lab School?
NO! We will work with you and your child to make toileting a success when your child is ready to
take this step.
Where are classes held?
BCC has several sites throughout Brevard County. Please see Locations on this website or call
(321) 433-7668 for available classes.
How do I know if a class has openings?
Enrollment changes often. When a class is full a waiting list is started. Families can be added to
the waiting list and will be notified if space becomes available. The office maintains the wait list
for the entire year. Families still waiting at the end of the year are contacted for the next year's
enrollment.
What are the costs?
Lab School tuition is based on the class attended and the number of family members involved.
See Registration Instructions on this website or call 321 433 7668, or email
[email protected].
Am I eligible for a Lab School Scholarship?
Scholarship applications are available online through the BCC Foundation. Scholarships are
need based and eligibility is determined using the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Guidelines.
Families can complete an online application through the BCC Foundation.
What is VPK?
The State of Florida passed a bill providing voluntary Pre-kindergarten at no cost for eligible 4
year old children. To be eligible a child must be a resident of Florida and be 4 years of age by or
on September 1st. There are no income restrictions, families with any income level may
participate. Lab School is a VPK provider at the Babcock Center location in Melbourne. For
more information on VPK visit: www.elcbrevard.org.
Can I visit the class with my child before we enroll?
YES! Lab School encourages parents and children to visit their class before enrolling. We offer
Open Houses each year, as well as visits during the year. Please call 321 433 7668 or send an
email to [email protected] to set up a time.
How do I enroll?
BCC has on-line registration and instructions available. See Registration Instructions on this site
or call 321 443 7668 for registration information.