Privacy Policy
Effective Date: February 17, 2021
Last Updated: August 31, 2025
1. Purpose and Commitment
At Stepping Stones and Associates LLC Childcare Providing and Courier Services (“we,” “our,” or “us”), we take the privacy and protection of every child, parent, staff member, and website visitor seriously. This Privacy Policy outlines our strict standards for collecting, using, disclosing, and safeguarding personal information.
We operate in compliance with all applicable New Jersey Department of Children and Families (DCF) licensing standards under N.J.A.C. 3A:52, the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA), and relevant federal privacy and data security laws.
Confidentiality is a matter of professional ethics and legal compliance. Breach of confidentiality or misuse of any personal data will result in disciplinary action, potential termination, and legal consequences where applicable.
2. Information We Collect
We collect only the information necessary to maintain lawful childcare operations, transportation safety, and service efficiency. This includes:
A. Personal Identification Information
- Parent/Guardian full name
- Child’s full name
- Residential and mailing address
- Phone numbers and email addresses
B. Child Records (Required by NJ Law)
- Date of birth
- Medical history, immunization records, and known allergies
- Physician contact information
- Authorized pickup persons and emergency contacts
C. Enrollment & Financial Records
- Tuition and fee records
- State subsidy or assistance documentation
- Payment history and invoices
D. Transportation & Courier Data
- Pickup and drop-off locations
- Authorized drivers and vehicle logs
- Attendance and sign-in/sign-out records
- Emergency evacuation documentation
E. Website Visitor & Communication Data
- IP address and browser information
- Cookie data and analytics (for site performance only)
- Contact form submissions and communication records
3. How Information Is Used
We use collected data solely for lawful and operational purposes:
- To provide safe, licensed childcare and courier services.
- To comply with state and federal childcare regulations.
- To maintain and verify emergency, evacuation, and attendance records.
- To manage billing, payments, and financial accountability.
- To communicate schedules, updates, and compliance notices with parents/guardians.
- To improve the security and functionality of our digital platforms.
4. Information Sharing and Disclosure
We do not sell, trade, or rent any personal information. Information is disclosed only when required for legitimate purposes:
- Regulatory Agencies: Shared with DCF inspectors, auditors, or law enforcement during official reviews or investigations.
- Emergency Responders: Fire, police, or medical personnel in cases of health, safety, or evacuation emergencies.
- Trusted Service Providers: Third-party billing, communication, or software providers under signed confidentiality agreements.
- Legal Requirements: When mandated by subpoena, warrant, or applicable court order.
Unauthorized sharing or removal of confidential information is strictly prohibited.
5. Children’s Privacy Protection
- We comply fully with COPPA and do not directly collect online data from children under 13.
- Child-specific data is collected only from parents or legal guardians.
- All paper files are stored in locked cabinets; all digital files are secured with password protection and encryption where applicable.
- Staff are trained annually on confidentiality, record-keeping, and privacy laws.
6. Data Retention and Security Measures
We employ both physical and digital safeguards to protect data integrity and prevent unauthorized access:
- Paper Records: Kept in locked, restricted-access filing systems.
- Digital Files: Protected with encryption, passwords, and secure software systems.
- Retention Schedule: In compliance with NJ licensing standards, all child records are maintained for no less than three (3) years after disenrollment.
- Data Disposal: Outdated or expired records are shredded or digitally deleted in accordance with NJ privacy disposal laws.
- Incident Response: Any data breach or unauthorized access will be documented, investigated, and reported promptly to authorities and affected parties.
7. Parent/Guardian Rights
Parents and legal guardians retain the following rights regarding their child’s records and personal information:
- Access: Request copies of their child’s complete file or specific records.
- Correction: Request updates or corrections to inaccurate information.
- Withdrawal of Consent: Revoke consent for data use when permissible by law.
- Complaint Filing: If a parent believes data has been mishandled, they may file a written complaint with:
New Jersey Department of Children and Families, Office of Licensing.
We encourage open communication regarding data privacy concerns.
8. Website and Cookie Usage
Our website uses cookies and analytics tools for the purpose of improving functionality and visitor experience. No personally identifiable child information is collected or stored online. Visitors may disable cookies in their browser settings at any time.
9. Courier Services Privacy
For families utilizing our Courier Transportation Services, we also maintain:
- Secure transportation logs (time, route, child name, guardian signature).
- Confidentiality of all route information and contact data.
- GPS or route tracking data used only for operational safety and compliance.
- Prohibition against public disclosure of transport patterns, addresses, or vehicle identification.
10. Staff Accountability and Enforcement
All Stepping Stones and Associates LLC staff, contractors, and volunteers are legally and professionally bound to uphold this policy. Violation of these standards will result in:
- Immediate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
- Possible reporting to licensing authorities or law enforcement.
Annual privacy training is mandatory for all employees.
11. Policy Updates and Notifications
This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically to ensure ongoing compliance with law and best practices. All revisions will be posted with a new “Effective Date” and distributed to families enrolled at the time of change. Continued use of our services constitutes acceptance of these updates.
12. Contact Information
Stepping Stones and Associates LLC
Childcare Providing and Courier Services
📍 Paterson, New Jersey
📧 Steelericher24@yahoo.com
📞 [Insert Updated Contact Number]
Website: [Insert URL once live]
For all privacy-related questions, written requests, or concerns, please contact us via email or certified mail.
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