FAQ

Will the NIST Child Care Center be open during a government shutdown? 

The center will work with NIST under our current Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for guidance in the event of a shutdown. The status of the center will be updated through ProCare and on the website as soon as information is available.  

Will families have to pay tuition during a shutdown?

Yes. As of February 8, 2019, tuition will continue to be charged during a lapse of appropriations, even if the Center is closed, subject to hardship considerations. Late fees will not be charged for 5 days after back pay is received. Tuition payments ensure staff salaries are supported through the furlough period, maintaining continuity of operations and quality of care once the government reopens.

Note: The Board of Directors (BOD) may revisit this policy depending on the duration or type of closure, whether employees receive back pay, or other circumstances 

What qualifies as financial hardship? 

Hardship considerations may be given to families who must work and pay for alternative care, as well as to those who do not receive back pay. 

Will teachers and staff be paid during a shutdown? 

Yes. The Board believes it is essential to retain staff during a shutdown so that operations can resume immediately with proper staffing ratios once the government reopens. 

How will Kindergarten instruction be affected? 

Maryland requires at least 170 days of instruction for Kindergarten (per COMAR Nonpublic School regulations). The CCC is working to secure an alternate site for Kindergarten instruction during a shutdown. Please contact Ms. Abrial at execdirector@nistkids.org with questions.

Will the Center be open on the first day of a shutdown? 

Yes. For an orderly closure, government employees may be required to work up to ½ day. The Center will be open 6:45 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on the first day of a shutdown. All children must be picked up by 12:30 p.m.

How will families know when the Center reopens? 

Check the NIST CCC Facebook page or call the NIST status line at 301-975-8000 or 1-800-437-4385 (x8000) for updates. 

Who should families contact during a shutdown?
Because NIST email will be unavailable, please use these contacts:

• Ms. Abrial (Executive Director): execdirector@nistkids.org

• Board of Directors:

  • President: president@nistkids.org

  • Secretary: secretary@nistkids.org