Originally Posted by tenderhearts:
I am really unsure of what to do with this. I do not have anything in my contract about having to close in an emergency like this. Even though most parents are getting paid I just feel like since it's not in my contract I can't do that. My contract states they have to pay if I'm not given the 2 week notice OR if they will be absent from care for 3 or more weeks then they need to pay 1/2 tuition to hold spot, but that really doesn't apply in this situation. So unsure of what to do.
You really need to update your payment policy.
Many of us have already gone through extended closures (flooding, power outage, hurricane, tornado, etc.) that is why our policies are cut and dry. It isn't because we are heartless and cruel. We were left hung out to dry by heartless parents and useless state supports enough times to look out for ourselves, first.
You can start today by telling parents you will meet them halfway since this is an unprecedented event for you. Some may leave, but I bet most will stay.