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Members:
Glenn Cesa
Karen Cesa
Dawn Perry
Glenn PerryLINKS SECTION
 | BOX TOPS FOR EDUCATION |
| FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES |
| GREEN POND BIBLE CHAPEL |
| SONLIGHT CURRICULUM |
POLICIES of CHHS
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NOTE!!: WHILE MOST ALL POLICIES REMAIN THE SAME, THIS PAGE NOT YET UPDATED FOR HOMELINK!
Following are all the policies for participants in the CHHS:
COURSEWORK, CLASSROOM and MISCELLANY POLICIES
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL POLICIES
STUDENT POLICIES: Expectations of Students and Student Behavior
PARENT POLICIES: Expectations of Parents
TEACHER POLICIES: Expectations of Teachers
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
STATEMENT OF FAITH
COURSEWORK, CLASSROOM and MISCELLANY POLICIES
Absences: All absences must be reported to the Director as soon as the absence is realized. Parents will receive a "Reporting Absences" phone number (voice mailbox since cell phone use is uncertain in the Green Pond Church area) on their directory. Attendance is mandatory unless illness or extenuating circumstances prevail. If students are absent to a significant degree, administration will contact the family and some course of action may be necessary.
Assignments: Due to the nature of "once-a-week" classes, it is imperative that students stay current with their assignments. Teachers work closely with students to help them do so, and parents must also realize their own role in ensuring their student's keeping current with assignments (each course's Scope and Sequence clearly defines "Parental Roles"). Late or missing assignments put extra burdens on the teachers, allow the student to fall behind, and are inefficient use of the time and energy spent toward successful Hybrid Schooling. The following policy is used for missing assignments:
- First missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies and informs parent;
- Second missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies administration and also informs parent;
- Third missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies parent and administration, at which point administration will determine necessary action between parent/student/teacher; the most extreme of which would be expulsion from the class.
Changing Classes: students and teachers are provided with 5 minutes to move from one class to another. They are to move directly to class with a minimum of commotion: "walk and whisper" manner is expected. If teachers have back-to-back classes in different classrooms, upon initial arrival, they need to place all needed materials either in the classroom or at the classroom door so set up for the actual class is kept at a minimum.
Class Size: Courses generally must have a minimal enrollment of five students per class in order to cost-effectively run the course (unless otherwise noted). Maximum enrollment is at the discretion of each teacher and largely is dependent upon the type of class. In general, content academic courses will try not to exceed 15 students.
Classroom behavior: All students and teachers must adhere to the following classroom behavior guidelines:
- Students are expected to sit quietly, have self control, and respond appropriately to the teacher's directives;
- Students are expected to raise their hands in order to answer questions; no shouting out or other such disturbances will be tolerated;
- Students are expected to maintain exemplary, upright, honorable and honest character;
- Students are expected to encourage and support one another in a gracious and loving environment. No name-calling or destructive comments towards one another will be tolerated;
- Students are to be respectful to both fellow students and teachers;
- Students can be asked to participate in set-up and straightening-up of the classroom at the teacher's discretion.
- Students who disregard any classroom expectation are to be dealt with IMMEDIATELY: teachers are to quickly and sternly remind the student of proper classroom behavior, no matter what the offense (talking out of turn; disrespect to teacher or other student; inattention; etc.).
Courses: Course work in the CHHS will be offered to children operating in 7th-12th grades. Specific courses include various levels of: Math, Science, Foreign Language, Language Arts and Classical Studies (i.e. Logic, Rhetoric). Additional electives such as Art and P.E. may be offfered as teachers become available. Academic core courses will run continually, year-long in a 34-week fashion unless otherwise noted. Each class will meet one day a week for 70 minutes unless otherwise specified. It is important to realize that there is a limit to what can be covered in this time-frame, so parents need to be aware that they MUST oversee all aspects of their students' work in the CHHS. A chart of the Scope and Sequence of all core subjects in the CHHS can be seen in the Appendices.
Credits: The CHHS does NOT issue credits for courses taken; parents are responsible to keep their own transcripts (see "Transcripts" below in this section). However, for parental reference, a list of *generally* required course credits is provided (generally a full-year course earns 5 credits).
High School Diploma Credits:
- 20 credits Language Arts literacy;
- 15 credits Mathematics;
- 15 credits Social Studies (generally one year of World History and two years of US History);
- 15 credits Science;
- 10 credits Foreign Language;
- 4 years Physical Education, Health and Safety;
- 10 credits of visual or performing arts;
- often career education courses or experience;
- Accumulation of 120 credit hours;
- pass the state mandated High School Proficiency exam.
Recommended for College-bound students:
- 4 years English;
- 3 years Math (or 4 years if Engineering, Architecture or Science majors);
- 3 years Science;
- 3 years Social Studies;
- 2 years of one Foreign Language;
- Additional electives: some colleges have unique requirements and it is best to check with each institution for specifics.
Food: Food brought to the CHHS should be as fast, simple and as easy to clean up as possible. Bagged or packaged lunches are recommended; no "cooking" or preparing of foods will be allowed. All food is confined to the Fellowship Hall/Study Hall. Each eating participant is responsible to set up and clean up their own eating areas. All behavior during the eating times is to comply with proper respectful behavior and will be monitored by a Study Hall monitor.
Grading: The CHHS teachers use a 10-point grading scale throughout the school:
- 90-100=A
- 80-89=B
- 70-79=C
- 60-69=D
- below 59=F
Homework: All classes will include homework since they meet only once a week; the amount of work will be decided upon at the discretion of each teacher, but in general, homework will expected to run 30-45 minutes, four to five days a week on a regular and consistent basis. Some teachers will require homework assignments to be "turned in" via email at the end of the week, prior to the next classtime, so that direct contact classtime can be maximized primarily for instruction as versus homework correction.
Host Facility Guidelines: Teachers and students alike must always be mindful of good stewardship toward the building, grounds and any equipment used during the CHHS; all participating members will sign a Host Facility Agreement (provided by Green Pond Bible Chapel) in order to adhere to facility maintenance. Failure to respect the host facility can result in discipline from the Board and ultimately expulsion from the CHHS.
Illness Guidelines: participants should not come to the CHHS who are sick. No person with fever, diarrhea or vomiting within 24 hours of the CHHS day should be present. Persons who present with sickness on site at the CHHS day are to be pulled away from class, assisted by a staff Monitor until proper dismissal can be made. In the event that a student has missed classes due to a highly contagious illness (such as Mononucleosis, Streptococcal infections, Conjunctivitis, etc.) that student will NOT be permitted to return to classes without a written doctor's note clearing that student of any contagion.
Laptop use: It is the hope of the CHHS that students will be able to use this medium in beneficial ways to him/her without distracting the class or classroom instruction. The following guidelines currently specify the use of personal laptops in the CHHS:
- laptops are allowed in the Study Halls at any and all times;
- laptops are allowed in classrooms at each teacher's discretion (a teacher can determine whether the laptop is allowed or not) and if allowed:
- the teacher must be asked for permission (once for the year) and his or her specific guidelines must be adhered to at all times with regards to the laptop;
- the teacher must be able to see the laptop and at least a portion of the screen at any given time;
- the teacher has the discretion to indicate when the laptop must be put away (i.e. during a test time, group work time, discussion time, etc);
- the laptop must be used for the purposes of notetaking, outlining material pertinent to the class ONLY. This means no music CDs, movie DVDs, games, and the like are allowed; should any inappropriate or other purpose be detected, the student will not be able to continue use of the laptop in the CHHS;
- No laptop headphones are allowed to be used, either in the Study Hall or in the classroom, at any time;
- The use of personal laptop computers is a privilege. Any abuse of that privilege by any one individual eliminates the privilege for that individual for the remainder of the school year, so please respect the rules regarding such.
Report Cards: Teachers are to provide progress reports twice a year; midway through the year and at year's end. Since the degree of parental involvement varies per subject, teacher information for each reporting term will likewise vary. Report cards also may be given at natural breaks in the course, therefore each class may not be giving out report cards during the same week/s.
Snow Days: Generally the CHHS rule regarding announcing a snow day is if there will be significant accumulation of snow and/or ice during Hybrid hours (roughly 11:00am-7:00pm). Since participants come from a huge range of areas, each participant, regardless of the administrative call, must decide for himself the safety of whether or not to come in during inclimate weather. Snow day make-ups will occur every time two snow days are taken (see this year's calendar for exact make-up dates).
Standards: Students must be able to maintain high standards of courtesy, kindness, morality and honesty in the CHHS. They should govern themselves independently, respectfully and in a prepared manner at all times while participating in the CHHS and at any CHHS sponsored events, activities or socials. This means that students will:
- greet adults respectfully;
- look for ways to be helpful;
- maintaining exemplary, upright, honorable and honest character;
- clean up after themselves (food materials, water bottles, wrappers, school items, clothing items);
- always make sure personal items are labeled and are accounted for when leaving the CHHS;
- be able to work independently and follow rules with a minimum of supervision;
- show respect and consideration to all CHHS staff, parents, and fellow students;
- come to class on time, prepared, with all materials needed and with completed, appropriate assignments;
- respect all property within and around the CHHS host facility.
Tests and Grades: All classes will give tests and grades; the degree to which again is at the discretion of each teacher; see description of each course in the Course Descriptions section to determine specifics. Most teachers will utilize some degree of cumulative exams, tests, quizzes, homework, attendance and class participation to determine overall course grade.
Test-Taking: Nearly all tests for the CHHS will be taken AT HOME due to the nature of once-a-week schooling. The protocol for test-taking will be conducted as follows. Teachers will provide a copy of the test via the parents’ communication folder (at the arrival/dismissal station). Parents are required to check their communications folders at the dismissal of each CHHS day, thereby picking up the necessary test and any procedure directives from the teacher. Parents are to follow the teachers’ directives on the test (i.e. when it the week it should be given, with or without notes, open or closed book , timed or not, etc). Upon completion of the test, the parents will take up the test, put it in an envelope marked for the teacher, and deposit into that teacher’s communication folder on the due date specified.
Transcripts: The CHHS does not provide official transcripts. CHHS teachers support and help facilitate home education, but it is the primary responsibility of the home educating parent to document each students’ academic progress. The CHHS teachers can provide parents with high-quality feedback throughout each course, including grades, but it is the burden of the parent to take that information and adapt it to transcripts and portfolios in a manner suitable to meet each home education objective. The CHHS can recommend several sources for aiding the parent in this record-keeping process:
- North American Regional Schools (NARS) is a service available online to homeschoolers to aid in transcript production, record keeping and obtaining a High School diploma. They offer a free, 55-page handbook that can be downloaded from their website. Also, NARS provides a transcript service for a fee; discount is available to CHHS families. Contact information for NARS is: North Atlantic Regional Schools, 25 Adams Avenue, Lewiston, Maine 04240, 207-753-1522 or www.narsonline.com
- Abundant Life Christian Academy is a service for homeschoolers that provides accountability, course selection counseling, standardized testing, college guidance, a High School diploma and more. Contact information for ALCA is Abundant Life Christian Academy, 2195 Woodbridge Avenue, Edison, New Jersey, 08817, 732-985-6717 or www.abundantlifechristian.com/academy.htm
ARRIVAL AND DISMISSAL POLICIES
Arrival Times: All students are required to arrive at the CHHS roughly 15 minutes prior to their first class in order that they may register their attendance for the day and check for any communications/announcements, HOWEVER, students are not allowed to come significantly more than 15 minutes prior to their first class. Parents will be assessed a $5.00 fee per incident, per student, who are brought in significantly more than 15 minutes prior to their first class.
Closing: No student, regardless of age, will be left on the host facility premises later than 15 minutes after the CLOSE of the CHHS day (6:55pm). Parents will be assessed a $10.00 fee per student, per incident for any student/s remaining more than 15 minutes after the close of the CHHS day.
Code Words: Family "code words" will be recorded with the Director/Hall Monitor to be used to verify non-parents picking up students in the event of emergency; in emergencies a substitute picking up the student must verify pick up with the assigned code word before release of the student will be permitted.
Dismissal: No student will leave the premises of the host facility alone, nor will any student leave the premises with any person other than the appointed parent/escort without express written instructions by the parent and without said escort providing the family code word.
Driving Teen Policy: Any students of age to drive independently must (a) have parent sign agreement that student is NOT the responsibility of the CHHS once outside the door of the facility, and (b) student MUST still have an agreed upon proxy parent (or adult in the program) sign them in, sign them out, and check all mailbox correspondences to make sure none is confidential. If confidential, the material must stay in the box unless the proxy parent will commit to the transfer of the material or until the parent can get the material herself (student must notify parent of such), and (c) if any other student is proposing to ride in or out with an independent driving teen, this accompanying student must also have parent sign agreement, must have a proxy parent sign them in and out, and the same policy stands for their mailbox material as well.
Escorts: EVERY student, regardless of age, must be escorted into the building by the parent or other accompanying adult, via the CHHS entrance, and proceed to the Information Station where attendance and any special communications and/or announcements will take place. No student, regardless of age, will be dropped off outside the building to enter the building alone. Upon this arrival registration, that escort will inform the Director/Hall Monitor of who will be picking the student up at the termination of his classes that day. See also "Driving Teen " policy.
Exceptions: Exceptions to the stated early arrival and late pick up policies and fees are those students whose parents are part of the CHHS staff. Such students, when on the premises and not in class, must remain in sight of their parent at all times unless that parent informs the CHHS staff, in writing, of other arrangements, and this agreement is approved.
Misconduct Dismissal: Every student is expected to behave in a proper, respectful, orderly fashion both in class, between class and in Study Hall. Students being disruptive or outright disobedient will be asked to leave the classroom and go to the Study Hall until they can regain their composure. In the even that they cannot comply with behavioral policies, the parent or suitable escort will be contacted for pick up, and the student will be asked to leave the CHHS once that escort has arrived. If such early dismissal occurs, it will count as a discipline action (see Discipline Procedures).
Picking up students: All students, regardless of age, are required to be picked up by the designated parent or escort no later than 15 minutes after the completion of their last class. Parents will be assessed a $5.00 fee per student, per incident for any students left on the premises later than 15 minutes after completion of their last class.
Punctuality: Due to the flexible schedule nature of the CHHS (students arriving and dismissing at varied times), punctuality is of UTMOST importance in order to ensure safe and effectual operations of the CHHS. Teachers, students and other CHHS staff need to be punctual for all aspects of their involvement in the CHHS.
STUDENT POLICIES: Expectations of Students and Student Behavior
Absences: Parents must report each student absence to the administration via the phone number indicated on the CHHS Directory as soon as possible. Parents and students are responsible for class material missed in the event of absence; it is the burden of the student/parent to contact teachers in the event of sudden absence, find out material missed, and catch up with missed material PRIOR to the next CHHS day. Students/parents must make sure they understand all individual teacher policies on missed material, additional to these statements. Excessive absences can jeopardize a student's standing in the CHHS and can lead to dismissal from that class with no monetary reimbursement.
Assignments: Due to the nature of "once-a-week" classes, it is imperative that students stay current with their assignments. Teachers work closely with students to help them do so, and parents must also realize their own role in ensuring their student's keeping current with assignments (each course's Scope and Sequence clearly defines "Parental Roles"). Students should NEVER come to class on a Monday and declare, "I didn't know what to do". As soon as confusion over an assignment occurs, that student needs to contact a fellow student or the teacher (or both) to ensure that he is on target with the assignment and can get it in on time. If they do make such a declaration, and have no work with them, their assignment is considered "late or missing". Late or missing assignments (or otherwise inappropriate assignments) put extra burdens on the teachers, allow the student to fall behind, and are inefficient use of the time and energy spent toward successful Hybrid Schooling. The following policy is used for missing assignments:
- First missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies and informs parent;
- Second missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies administration and also informs parent;
- Third missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies parent and administration, at which point administration will determine necessary action between parent/student/teacher; the most extreme of which would be expulsion from the class.
Dress Code: Students can dress comfortably but in doing so they MUST be modest and conservative. Girls: no low necklines, no cleavage revealed, no sheer material, shirts must cover mid areas even when sitting and stretching; no overly tight skirts, shorts or pants; skirts and shorts should not be shorter than the palm of hand when arms hang by the side. No extreme make-up or jewelry. Boys: must wear a shirt; no heavy chains or spike jewelry, no extreme hairstyles, no shredded pants or tops. Both boys and girls: no hats worn in the building. Students must submit to the authority and discretion of the CHHS staff in this and all matters; should the administration find a particular dress inappropriate, the student will submit to that authority and not continue that dress or style while at the CHHS or CHHS events. In general, if one is not sure about a particular item of clothing, err on the side of caution, conservation and modesty. The goal is to promote modesty and to not offend any other member.
Excellence in Education: It is the goal of the Hybrid School to produce and maintain excellence in academic endeavors and this can be translated objectively as preferring above average performance in classes (grades of As and Bs) and tolerating no less than average performance (C work). "Above average" refers to non-academic, behavioral standards as well.
Information Station: Upon arrival, students must always check in at the Information Station WITH THEIR PARENTS in the Fellowship Hall near the front entrance of the church. It is here that the students are registered, by their parents, as present for the day and parents will receive any special announcments or communications and other alterations of the usual CHHS day. Here, too, parents are to check their Communications Box/Folder for any specific communications to them from teachers or the administration (students are NOT to pick up material from the Communications Box; only parents may do so).
"Intimacy" Policy: Regardless of the nature of a given relationship students may have with one another OUTSIDE of the CHHS, no "special", "intimate" or "affectionate" (i.e. dating) relationships will be demonstrated IN ANY WAY on CHHS grounds during the CHHS day or during any sponsored CHHS events, activities or socials. This specifically includes, but is not limited to: no hand-holding, walking arm-in-arm, kissing or other demonstrations of intimate or special affection.
Learning Disabilities: Students musts be able to work independently and keep up the pace of the class in order to participate; unfortunately there is no provision in a once-a-week school for significant extra help or special attention for special needs students. Students with significant learning disabilities cannot be enrolled in the CHHS due to the lack of adequate staff, resources , and facilities. Should a student simply require minor classroom accommodations (special seating location, use of tape recorder or laptop, etc) in order to function comparably alongside his peers, such is allowable. However, such students with minor learning disabilities (diagnosed or undiagnosed) will be given as much individual attention, instruction and encouragement as all other CHHS students --- no more, or no less.
No Tolerance Policy: In general, any disregard for rules or disrespect or insubordination of any kind will NOT be tolerated at the CHHS, or during any sponsored CHHS events, activities or socials. Offenses such as those listed below will result in immediate disciplinary action (see Discipline Policies on this page). While every possible offense cannot be listed, such untolerated behaviors include:
- using vulgar language or the Lord's name in vain;
- inappropriate dress (see dress code above in this Student Policy section);
- dishonesty of any kind, including but not limited to lying, cheating, stealing, plagerizing, etc.;
- insubordination of any kind, including willful disobedience or non-compliance to a teacher or other staff directive, including any willful or purposeful non-comliance to classroom and homework assignments;
- loitering in the halls or in unauthorized areas within or outside of the host facility;
- wandering off alone or in groups from designated CHHS areas: all students are to be either in their classroom, Study Hall or the bathroom at all times during the CHHS day;
- demeaning, ridiculing or otherwise disrespecting any CHHS staff or fellow student;
- running or otherwise rough-housing in or around the building;
- making any phone calls on Green Pond phones or attempting to use any church equipment. (In emergencies, CHHS staff can help students with phoning);
- bringing into class any personal items except for that which is necessary for classtime (toys, trading cards, electronic devices, magazines, literature not being used in class, cigarettes or any form of tobacco, "recreational" drugs of any kind, vitamins or any herbal supplements, weapons, and the like). The exception to this rule is cell phone/beeper use, which are allowed for communication purposes, and quiet games which can be shared in Study Hall at the appropriate times;
- taking any drugs, medications, vitamins, herbs etc. while at the CHHS unless DISPENSED BY THE PARENT;
- having any food or drink (which includes candy and gum) except bottled water in any areas other than the designated "cafeteria" area (Fellowship Hall room which is also the Study Hall area). All lunch/dinner/snack materials brought into the building must be immediately taken to and stored in the Study Hall area, and not in the halls or classrooms;
- displays of special affection of ANY kind on CHHS property during the CHHS days, or at any CHHS sponsored activities, events or socials;
- getting into a car with a non-designated escort (one who has not been registered at the Information Station).
Standards: Students must be able to maintain high standards of courtesy, kindness, morality and honesty in the CHHS. They should govern themselves independently, respectfully and in a prepared manner at all times while participating in the CHHS and at any CHHS sponsored events, activities or socials. This means that students will:
- greet adults respectfully;
- look for ways to be helpful;
- maintaining exemplary, upright, honorable and honest character;
- clean up after themselves (food materials, water bottles, wrappers, school items, clothing items);
- always make sure personal items are labeled and are accounted for when leaving the CHHS;
- be able to work independently and follow rules with a minimum of supervision;
- show respect and consideration to all CHHS staff, parents, and fellow students;
- come to class on time, prepared, with all materials needed and with completed, appropriate assignments;
- respect all property within and around the CHHS host facility.
Submission to Authority: In general, students of the CHHS will willingly and respectfully submit to those in authority at the CHHS and at any sponsored CHHS events, activities or socials. This means submission in all matters to all faculty, parents, CHHS staff and Green Pond Bible Chapel staff.
PARENT POLICIES: Expectations of Parents
Absences: All absences must be reported as soon as possible to the phone number provided in the CHHS Directory. Parents must make every attempt to have students attend every class of the Hybrid School: each ONE DAY missed of Hybrid sets up the content which is equivalent to a FULL WEEK of academic material. When students are absent, the parents must ensure that they will contact teachers to find out all material missed in order that assignments can be completed BEFORE attendance at the next class. Should a student be out for 3 consecutive absences due to illness, a medical note will be necessary upon return to the CHHS. Parents must also realize that excessive absences may jeopardize the student's standing in the CHHS; such excesses can result in dismissal from that class, with no monetary refund.
Allowances: Parents have the opportunities to:
- sit in on a class, either as a auditing participant or a visitor, with prior notice to the teacher. There is no fee for auditing a class, however, auditing parents must be willing to substitute teach for the teacher, if necessary;
- use the emergency phone or CHHS staff cell phone in order to contact their child in an emergency;
- participate in the many Hybrid School extra-curricular activities (see Extra-Curricular Opportunities section);
- assume that their student is conducting himself properly and is on target with course work unless otherwise notified by the teacher.
Assignments: Due to the nature of "once-a-week" classes, it is imperative that students stay current with their assignments. Teachers work closely with students to help them do so, and parents must also realize their own role in ensuring their student's keeping current with assignments (each course's Scope and Sequence clearly defines "Parental Roles"). Late or missing assignments put extra burdens on the teachers, allow the student to fall behind, and are inefficient use of the time and energy spent toward successful Hybrid Schooling. The following policy is used for missing assignments:
- First missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies and informs parent;
- Second missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies administration and also informs parent;
- Third missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies parent and administration, at which point administration will determine necessary action between parent/student/teacher; the most extreme of which would be expulsion from the class.
Communication: Teachers are to ALWAYS communicate directly to and through the PARENT, not to the student. This means all course assignments and feedback go through the parent via email or the Communication Box, NOT directly to the student. Teachers will use parent email addresses only, and PARENTS ONLY are to be checking Communication Boxes. Teachers will alert parents immediately upon each occasion regarding student performance or behavior that is less than optimal. Parents can assume that the student is conducting himself properly and is on target with course work unless otherwise noted by the teacher.
Contract: Parents must familiarize themselves with, and comply with ALL policies and procedures set forth on the CHHS website and in the Host Facility Agreement (available to members after final registration has been made). After having done so, parents must sign the CHHS Contract in order to participate.
Cooperative Component: As of 2005-2006, the CHHS will require parents, in addition to tuition and fee requirements, to sign up for at least ONE parent assistant position for/during the year. Some such positions include: study hall monitor, study hall monitor sub; classroom sub; Dinner Break coordinator; parent helper for Orientation Night, Fall School Item (sweatshirts, etc) orders, Christmas Open House, State of the School Address, Open House, Placement Testing or Recognition Night; Sibling Club rotation; Yearbook Staff; Socials Director; Volunteer Project/s; and many others.
Dress Code: Parents must follow the same dress code standards AT LEAST as the students, and must be exemplary in all manner of dress when on the CHHS site or at CHHS sponsored functions.
Email use: Parents MUST realize the degree to which the CHHS relies upon email use for communications. All teachers and administrators use email as the primary mode to communicate efficiently with all parties, therefore parents MUST be committed to checking their emails at LEAST three times a week, and responding PROMPTLY when necessary. Parents CANNOT relinquish this duty to their students to "check the emails for them", as the parent is still the primary teacher of their students and therefore must be aware of all communications regarding their students. Finally, since the CHHS relies so heavily upon email use, if for any reason a participating family is without regular email use, or if any change in email status occurs, parents MUST notify administration and each teacher immediately and make attempts to determine how to overcome the problem. Also, if parents cannot open attachments sent by either administration or teachers, they must notify that sender right away so that appropriate measures can be taken to get the vital information to the family. Also, those parents are responsible to determine and remedy the cause for not being able to attachments.
Excellence in Home Education: It is the goal of the CHHS to strive for, and help every student to achieve, excellence in his/her home education. This can be translated objectively as preferring above average performance in classes (grades of As and Bs) and tolerating no less than average performance (C work). "Above average" refers to non-academic, behavioral standards as well. The role of the administration and teachers toward this end is to provide an environment which helps students to thrive. The CHHS will work with each family to help ensure the highest achievement possible for each student. This CANNOT be achieved, however, without considerable parental input to the student. Excessive lack of participation on the part of the student (excessive absences, late or missing assignments) and/or lack of direct, consistent and regular input from the parent (to monitor assignments, provide specified assistance as described in each teacher's "Parental Roles" portion of the Scope and Sequence) can result in dismissal from class, and ultimately from the CHHS if not addressed.
Information Station: Upon arrival each day to the CHHS, parents MUST ALWAYS check their students in at the Information Station in the Fellowship Hall near the front entrance of the church. It is here that the students are registered as present for the day and will receive any special announcments. Here, too, parents are to check their Communications Box/Folder for any specific communications to them from teachers or from the administration (students are NOT to pick up material from the Communications Box; only parents). Parents should also check their Communication Box upon dismissal as well, for any additional communications that may have occured during the CHHS day.
Learning Disabilities: Students musts be able to work independently and keep up the pace of the class in order to participate; unfortunately there is no provision in a once-a-week school for significant extra help or special attention for special needs students. Students with significant learning disabilities cannot be enrolled in the CHHS due to the lack of adequate staff, resources , and facilities. Should a student simply require minor classroom accommodations (special seating location, use of tape recorder or laptop, etc) in order to function comparably alongside his peers, such is allowable. However, such students with minor learning disabilities (diagnosed or undiagnosed) will be given as much individual attention, instruction and encouragement as all other CHHS students --- no more, or no less.
Payments: Parents must be familiar with all Tuition and Fee information. In summary, they must make all necessary fee payments ON SCHEDULE, or accept a 10% late fee per week until fees are paid. "Late" constitutes a payment postmarked or received the first day after a due date and thus starts the count of a "week". The CHHS administration realizes that a 10% surcharge is a steep fee indeed, and the nature of such is to PREVENT any fees from coming in late. The CHHS is a non-profit organization that runs on a very tight budget, with no excess funds margin. Should any inability to pay on time occur, parents should notify the administration AHEAD OF THE PAYMENT DUE DATE to possibly arrange alternative plans.
Primary Teacher: Parents must be aware that they themselves are still the PRIMARY teacher of their homeschooled CHHS student. Enrollment in the CHHS is not a complete deference of parental involvement or authority but rather is a PARTNERSHIP between the parent and the professional teacher. The hired teacher can actually be thought of as an "academic facilitator" who works hand in hand with the Primary Teacher (parent). As such, the teacher "sets up" the student's week by delivering academic content the first day of the week. However, what the Primary Teacher (parent) does the remaining 4-5 days in the week greatly determines the success of the student and even ultimately influences the student's standing in the CHHS.
Each course's Scope and Sequence, given to the parents at the Orientation Day, describes in full detail the specific "Parental Role" for that course. Parents MUST MANAGE their students' work: they must be aware of ALL course Scope and Sequences and thereby supervise all teacher requirements and homework assignments given. Parents must consistently oversee all weekly work done by the student in preparation for each CHHS class. Regular and frequent "meetings" between parent and student each week can help maintain the parent-student commitment for success in the CHHS.
Standards: Students must be able to maintain high standards of courtesy, kindness, morality and honesty in the CHHS. They should govern themselves independently, respectfully and in a prepared manner at all times while participating in the CHHS and at any CHHS sponsored events, activities or socials. This means that students will:
- greet adults respectfully;
- look for ways to be helpful;
- maintaining exemplary, upright, honorable and honest character;
- clean up after themselves (food materials, water bottles, wrappers, school items, clothing items);
- always make sure personal items are labeled and are accounted for when leaving the CHHS;
- be able to work independently and follow rules with a minimum of supervision;
- show respect and consideration to all CHHS staff, parents, and fellow students;
- come to class on time, prepared, with all materials needed and with completed, appropriate assignments;
- respect all property within and around the CHHS host facility.
If, during the course of the year, a student shows considerable and repeated struggle in a course, the CHHS also can provide parents with contact information for testing services to see if their student might have special learning needs which are hindering his/her class performance. Testing for, and knowledge of, any special learning needs can assist the teachers, parents and the student in achieving the that student's highest academic potential. Ultimately, however, all students in the CHHS MUST be able to keep up the pace of classes in order to remain in the CHHS.
Study Skills Class: Whenever teacher availability provides the CHHS with a Study Skills Class, all newly enrolled or entry level students are REQUIRED to participate in this class as long as their scheduling allows. The Study Skills Class will provide extensive training in managing study time, study habits, taking notes, test taking and many other skills necessary for success in academic classes. All returning marginal students or those who have struggled to keep up their coursework will be required to take the Study Skills Class if they desire to continue in the CHHS.
Texts/Class Materials: Parents must read Course Descriptions and purchase all necessary texts, materials and other specified items for each registered class in advance of class commencement; parents may contact teachers with any specific course questions. Parents must also provide the student with all general materials necessary for class time: pencils, pens, paper, notebooks, etc. in a backpack or otherwise labeled carrier for each week at the CHHS.
Transcripts: Parents must keep all transcript information for themselves as this is not the responsibility of the teacher or the CHHS administration. For contact information on some suggested Transcript services available to homeschoolers (and at a discount to CHHS students), see above section for "Transcripts" under the COURSEWORK, CLASSROOMS and MISCELLANY POLICIES.
Tutelage Situations: It is sometimes necessary for students to receive outside help from the teachers hired by the CHHS, additional to what is normally provided from that teacher for the class. In such cases, the parents and teacher must work out additional compensations between themselves. However, if a student is DISMISSED from the CHHS due to lack of participation, unacceptable behavior, or for other such reasons, or if a family chooses to WITHDRAW a student from the CHHS for reasons other than illness, the CHHS requires that parents do not attempt to contact CHHS teachers for outside help and compensation. The reason for this requirement is that the monies, energies and efforts of the CHHS are that which found the teacher in the first place; by being dismissed or having withdrawn from the CHHS, a family forfeits their rights to benefit from provisions made by the CHHS.
TEACHER POLICIES: Expectations of Teachers
Absences: All teacher absences MUST be reported to the administration as soon as known. Teachers are responsible to contact their appointed substitutes and provide appropriate instruction and materials for substitution (see "Substitutions" in this same section). All student absences from each class must be reported by the teacher on the ATTENDANCE SIGN-IN SHEET at the Check-in table (Information Table).
Application Process: Prior to being hired, teachers must undergo the proper application and interviewing process with the CHHS administration. Application consists of providing references for Christian character, academic prowess and general humanity. Proof of certifications, current observation reports and lesson plans are helpful, if available. Applying teachers must also submit to a formal "background check". Final acceptance of position is based on the results of all the above plus overall fit into the CHHS.
Assignments: Due to the nature of "once-a-week" classes, it is imperative that students stay current with their assignments. Teachers work closely with students to help them do so, and parents must also realize their role in ensuring their student's keeping on top of assignments. Late or missing assignments put extra burdens on the teachers, allow the student to fall behind, and are inefficient use of the time and energy spent toward successful Hybrid schooling. The following procedure has been adopted for missing assignments, and MUST be adhered to by all teachers:
- First missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies and informs parent;
- Second missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies administration and also informs parent;
- Third missing, late or inappropriate assignment: Teacher notifies parent and administration, at which point administration will determine necessary action between parent/student/teacher; the most extreme of which would be expulsion from the class.
Background checks: All teachers must be willing to undergo a security background check in order to participate in the Hybrid School.
Biographies: Once hired, teachers must provide the administration with a biography (format to follow is provided and can be seen on the website with other teacher bios . This information is posted on the website for participants in the CHHS to learn more about their teachers. If a teacher, however, does not prefer his/her bio to be posted on the website, that is allowable. If not posted on the website, the administration still retains the bio and it can be made available upon request to inquiring parents.
Communications: Teachers must ALWAYS communicate directly to and through the PARENT, not to the student. This means all course assignments and feedback go through the parent via email or communication box, NOT directly to the student (use parent email addresses only and parents only are to be checking communication boxes). Teachers should respond promptly to students when receiving assignments via email. Teachers must also alert parents IMMEDIATELY and UPON EACH OCCASION regarding student performance and behavior that is less than optimal (i.e. homework not turned in, missing assignments, etc). It is recommended to also alert parents of performance that is ABOVE optimal, so that parents receive positive feedback of student performance as well as negative. Parents will assume that the student is conducting himself properly and is on target with course work unless otherwise noted by the teacher. Therefore it is the burden of the teacher to inform parents of situations that are otherwise and to work out suitable solutions TOGETHER with the parent to such problems. Teachers MUST alert CHHS staff also, once a parent has been contacted three times for negative performance.
Comprehensive Exams: Teachers may decide for themselves whether or not a mid-term exam or a final exam is necessary for their class. In the event that a teacher schedules a mid-term or final, additional study time in the syllabus MUST be provided to accomodate for exam study (without coinciding exam study with continued coursework).
Contact Time Follow-up: Teachers who must communicate with their classes after a given Monday, especially with regards to summing up the lessons, providing additional work, making changes to the syllabus, etc. MUST do so no later than Tuesday evening in order to give students enough time to complete their work efficiently.
Contract: Teachers must familiarize themselves with, and comply with all policies and procedures set forth in the CHHS (hard copy of policies in Handbook and those described here on this website) and in the Host Facility Agreement (copy given to the teacher upon hiring). After having done so, they must sign the CHHS Teacher Contract.
Course Description: Within a prescribed time of being hired, teachers must provide the CHHS staff with a full "Course and Qualifications Description" as laid out in a provided form: the same format as in used on the website for Course Descriptions . This information is then part of the "Scope and Sequence" of that course and is used on the website for enrolling families to familiarize themselves with course content and pre-requisites for entering a course. This Course Description is a portion of a seven-part piece of information included in the Scope and Sequence (see Scope and Sequence section further down in this Teacher Policies section).
Discipline issues: Teachers need to be familiar with the Expectations of Students sections of the website (student policies further up on this page), and not allow any such offenses to go without proper feedback to the student. Problems need to be made known to the parent as well as to the CHHS administration the same day of the offense (or shortly thereafter); discipline issues need to be solved via the discipline procedures of this website page.
Double Sections: When courses must be divided into two sections due to scheduling necessities and/or over-enrollment, the teacher is paid full tuition for the first section, and half tuition for the second (since complete planning is not necessary for a repeat class).
Dress Code: Teachers must follow the same dress code standards AT LEAST as the students, and must be exemplary in all manner of dress when on the CHHS site or at CHHS sponsored functions.
Excellence in Home Education: It is the goal of the CHHS to strive for, and help every student to achieve, excellence in his/her home education. This can be translated objectively as preferring above average performance in classes (grades of As and Bs) and tolerating no less than average performance (C work). "Above average" refers to non-academic, behavioral standards as well. The role of the administration and teachers toward this end is to provide an environment which helps students to thrive. The CHHS will work with each family to help ensure the highest achievement possible for each student. This CANNOT be achieved, however, without considerable parental input to the student. Excessive lack of participation on the part of the student (excessive absences, late or missing assignments) and/or lack of direct, consistent and regular input from the parent (to monitor assignments, provide specified assistance as described in each teacher's "Parental Roles" portion of the Scope and Sequence) can result in dismissal from class, and ultimately from the CHHS if not addressed.
Food/Drink: Teachers are not to allow ANY food or drink (including candy or gum), other than bottled water, in any classrooms, by any individuals. Food is ONLY ALLOWED in the Fellowship Hall (Study Hall) area.
Follow-Up Emails: After each Monday class, teachers must provide a summary follow-up email to each student of each class. This email, as do all, goes to the parent, and should be sent out no later than Tuesday evening following class. The Follow-Up email either reinforces that the syllabus as written is to be followed precisesly or reiterates any specifics given in class that add to or change that which is on the syllabus. Any other specifics which will assist the parents in partnering with the teacher, content and assignments for that week must be specified.
Lab Courses: It is the goal of the CHHS to provide "time and a half" for the upper Science courses (content plus lab) and there are a variety of ways in which this can be accomplished. Upper Science courses (Bio, Chem, Physics) will ideally require a period and a half, earn a credit and a half, and have a tuition of a course and a half.
Laptop use: Students are allowed to use a personal laptop computer in their classrooms AT THE DISCRETION OF THE TEACHER (see POLICIES FOR COURSEWORK, CLASSROOMS and MISCELLANY for full policy on laptops). Teachers may use laptops as needed.
Materials: Teachers are "required to provide their own teaching materials". This means that the teachers must secure, in a variety of fashions, their own materials, as the Hybrid rarely can afford to purchase and store teaching materials (there are some exceptions to this). Some teachers desire to OWN and KEEP their materials, in which case they should order and pay for the materials themselves. If a teacher does not prefer to own and keep their materials, they still must secure* the materials themselves, pay for them up front, and then at the outset of school, that teacher must inform all parents of that course that a "materials fee" is required, to be paid directly to the teacher, independent of their tuition fees. This materials fee is determined by the total amount charged to the teacher for securing materials, then divided by the total number of students in the class, to reimburse the teacher. (In some instances, the Hybrid School can provide a portion of the materials fee, so do check with administration on specifics of your materials). In all cases where a materials fee is collected, the teacher does not own the materials; those materials are then property of the Hybrid School. (*The first line of securing materials, whether teacher-owned or Hybrid owned, should be via used curriculum provisions. See Used Curriculum for ways to acquire used, but quality materials).
Punctuality: Teachers are to arrive to the facility at LEAST 15 minutes before their first class in order to check in with the administration/Hall Monitor and Information Station, as well as to help set up all their materials for each class they teach, prior to the start of the first class taught. Teachers need to notify the CHHS staff as soon as possible if they are going to be late arriving for any reason (cell phone numbers of CHHS Staff are available to all parents and teachers, and the "Reporting Absences" phone number is as well listed on the CHHS Directory). Teachers will be penalized $5.00 for every 15 minutes they are late.
Report Cards: Teachers are to provide progress reports twice a year; midway through the year and at year's end. Since the degree of parental involvement varies per subject, teacher information for each reporting term will likewise vary. Report cards also may be given at natural breaks in the course, therefore each class may not be giving out report cards during the same week/s.
Scope and Sequences: Teachers must provide the administration with a "Scope and Sequence" for each course they teach. The Scope and Sequence consists of seven parts: An Introduction to the course and to themselves; a full Course Description; Role of the Teacher; Role of the Student; Role of the Parent; a 34-week Course Syllabus; and sub plans. (A sample Scope and Sequence is available upon request). Once approved by the Curriculum Coordinator, this Scope and Sequence must be given to each of parents of each student in each class by a designated time prior to the commencement of school. If any changes occur through the year in what is planned and specified on the Scope and Sequence, submissions for changes must be given to the administration, for approval, and then copies distributed to parents once approval is gained.
Snow Day Make-Ups: ALL teachers are required to attend any specified Snow Day make-ups, regardless of the status of where they are on their syllabus at that time.
Standards: Students must be able to maintain high standards of courtesy, kindness, morality and honesty in the CHHS. They should govern themselves independently, respectfully and in a prepared manner at all times while participating in the CHHS and at any CHHS sponsored events, activities or socials. This means that students will:
- greet adults respectfully;
- look for ways to be helpful;
- maintaining exemplary, upright, honorable and honest character;
- clean up after themselves (food materials, water bottles, wrappers, school items, clothing items);
- always make sure personal items are labeled and are accounted for when leaving the CHHS;
- be able to work independently and follow rules with a minimum of supervision;
- show respect and consideration to all CHHS staff, parents, and fellow students;
- come to class on time, prepared, with all materials needed and with completed, appropriate assignments;
- respect all property within and around the CHHS host facility.
Substitutions: There are many aspects to subbing, all of which are described below.
Substitute Situations: There are two types of substitute situations: (1) an emergency substitution and (2) an advance notice substitution. In the event of an emergency absence by the teacher, the emergency plans (described below) will be followed by the sub teacher. In the case of an absence known in advance, the main teacher is to contact their sub preferably the Monday before the absence to give instructions and materials to the sub, and AT LEAST by the Friday before the absence. In the event of EITHER type of absence, the returning teacher should follow-up as soon as possible with his/her sub to provide both compensation and feedback on how the subbed class progressed.
Substitute Materials: Teachers are to provide substitute materials for substitute coverage of their classes. The two types of subbing situations described above need two different types of subbing materials. For the event of an emergency subbing situation, all teachers need to provide materials, which will be kept at the facility, and which will accommodate any class during the Syllabus in an emergency (these materials can be changed throughout the year as students increase in their course content). In the event of an advance notice absence, the absent teacher needs to contact the sub teacher a week ahead of time (and not later than 3 days ahead) to provide the sub teacher with materials and instructions sufficient to keep the class on target with the Syllabus as much as possible. In the event that NO SUB is available, the class will move to the Study Hall and the Study Hall Monitor will provide the emergency sub materials and instruct the students in completing the substitute work.
Substitute Preparation and Follow-up: It is the responsibility of each teacher to contact their sub EACH time a sub is needed, and to provide for that sub all necessary materials (read section above). Also, follow-up with each sub teacher as soon as possible after the sbustitution is necessary both to compensate the sub monetarily as well as to determinehow to proceed with classes after the subbed event.
Substitute Teachers: Each teacher must be willing to sub for at least the same number of classes for which s/he is a teacher (unless particular circumstances prevent such and this is approved by the administration). It is also the responsibility of each teacher to provide the name of a suitable and available substitute for each class they teach (a sub by whom the regularly planned course content or close to regularly planned content can still be maintained in the true teacher's absence). The best source of substitutes are: other teachers within the CHHS who have a period off during that teaching period; co-op teacher/parents available during that period; parents of students in the class who audit the class themselves on a regular basis; or any other viable, creative solution to substituting (must be approved by the CHHS administration). Teachers must work out their own method of compensation for such substitutions, however, a table of suggested monetary sub compensations is available on request.
Supervisory Visits: Teachers must be aware that a minimum of two supervisory visits by the CHHS administration will be made throughout the school year, from which additional supervisory visits can possibly be required. CHHS will provide the teacher with observation reports from such visits within a reasonable amount of time following the visit. Points of praise as well as suggestins for improvement will be provided in the report.
Test Taking: Since the CHHS is a once-a-week school, actual contact time with students in the class time must be maximized and used to greatest advantage. This rarely involves test-taking DURING CHHS class time. The CHHS provides a PARTNERSHIP between professional teacher and home educating parent, and therefore, parents are utilized to assist the teacher in many aspects of the education process, one of which is test-taking. An entire directive is given to teachers regarding the protocol for test-taking in the CHHS, but in general is summed up with these guidelines:
- a copy of the test is made for each parent and given to them via the Communications folder for that family;
- parents are responsible to gather the Communications information as they dismiss each Monday;
- a page of directives from the teacher to the parent should accompany the test. Directives should define precisely to the parent how the teacher wishes the test to be carried out, when, who grades, etc.
Tutelage Situations: As a teacher hired by the CHHS, it is sometimes necessary for students to receive outside help, additional to what is normally provided from a teacher for the class. In such cases, the parents and teacher must work out additional compensations between themselves. However, if a student is DISMISSED from the CHHS due to lack of participation, unacceptable behavior, or for other such reasons, or if a family chooses to WITHDRAW from the CHHS for reasons other than illness, we require that teachers do not accept requests for outside help and compensation. Declining to continue working with a dismissed or withdrawn student avoids a situation that would entail a conflict of interest.
Upper Science Courses: The Biology, Chemistry and Physics classes all require more input than the standard 70-minute, once-a-week classes afford. This problem will be solved in either way: (a) have a period and a half--full period is to be devoted to content coverage, and a half period for lab time, or; (b) utilize classroom DVD coverage for content during the week while the once-a-week Hybrid time will primarily be devoted to lab participation and coverage of lab reports and support of content. Students of these classes, regardless of how Hybrid presents them, will receive a credit and a half (if using NARS for transcripts) and must pay an extra tuition to cover either the separate lab period, or the DVD coverage. Separate lab fees are also required (teacher and supplies).
DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURE
The course of action for infraction of any of the CHHS policies or guidelines is as follows:
First offense/Discipline Action: If any member of the CHHS staff or the host facility staff witnesses an inappropriate behavior, that witnessing member will speak to the student directly, and also advise a Board Director and the parent as well. That staff member is to deal immediately with the situation, PRIVATELY, in a loving but firm manner. A follow-up email appraisal of the situation will be sent to both parent and directors from the witnessing staff member. The parent is to be encouraged to deal with this issue at home so as to have no repeated misbehavior; the parent and student are to be reminded of a "No Tolerance" policies as well as their own contracts signed which confirm parent and student's agreement to comply with all policies.
Second offense/Discipline Action: The witnessing teacher or other CHHS staff will advise the parent and the administration of this second offense immediately, and as well, deal with the offending student as described above. Again, both the parent and the student are to be reminded of the "No Tolerance" policies as well as their own contracts signed which confirm parent and student's agreement to comply with all policies. A follow-up email appraisal will again be sent by the staff member to parents and directors.
After Two Offenses: After the administration has been made aware of two offenses (and not necessarily the same offenses or from the same reporting source), the administration must call a meeting with the parents to discuss the continuation of difficulty with the student. The student will be placed on a limited time probation (duration of time to be determined at each case) with a determined and specified outline of retributive actions to be done (by either the parent and/or the student). It is the hope that during this probation time, the student will provide convincing evidence of intent to turn the behavior around. If not, or if a third offense occurs, action will take place (see below).
Third offense/Discipline Action: If a third and not necessarily related offense occurs, a CHHS Director, the witnessing CHHS staff member, parent, offending student and any other person involved will have to meet to discuss the problem and the necessary discipline action which WILL need to occur. Such action could include (but is not limited to) dismissal from certain activities (such as Study Hall attendence) or from certain classes (with no refund). Confidence must be assured for no future repeated misconduct.
Dismissal: After the three above steps are taken, and any continued misbehavior occurs, the student will be expelled from finishing out the remainder of the school year. Expulsion will not result in any refund of any monies or tuition.
Special Note: If for any reasonable cause the director/s deem it necessary or preferable to forgo any of these steps, it is within the rights of the administration to do so. Parents, teachers and students must remind themselves that they sign a contract agreeing to respect the leadership and authority of the administration and their response to disciplinary action should indicate such deference.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
The following information is adapted from a special presentation from The Institute for Christian Reconciliation, a division of Peacemaker Ministries, given on October 13, 1995.
Method of Being a Peacemaker in the CHHS: Realize that both parties (student-to-student or adult-to-adult) are both responsible, EITHER WAY, in any kind of conflict; whether they are the one offending OR the one being offended. BOTH have a biblical part to play in peacemaking. (Mat. 5:23-24 and Mat. 18:15)
To Resolve Conflict:
- Step One: Overlook Small Offenses
ÒA manÕs wisdom gives him patience; it is to his glory to overlook an offense.Ó (Prov. 19:11)
Many disputes/differences can be properly resolved by overlooking an offense and forgiving the person who has wronged or offended. Pray about the issue to decide if ÒitÕs worth itÓ---if itÕs that important an issue to confront the offender, then do so (Step Two). If however, after prayer, God gives peace to Òdrop the issueÓ, then it is passed and forgotten, and IS NOT TO BE DISCUSSSED WITH OTHERS. (See also: Prov. 12:16; 17:14; I Pet. 4:8; Col. 3:13)
- Step Two: Seek Discussion
ÒIf your brother sins against/offends you, go and show him his fault, JUST BETWEEN THE TWO OF YOU.Ó (Mat. 18:15)
Personal wrongs/offenses that are too serious to overlook should be resolved through confession or loving confrontation, opening the way to reconciliation. If the personal offenses occur between adult and student, then the studentÕs parent needs to be in on this step as well. (See also: Luke 17:3,4; Prov. 28:13; Mat. 5:23, 24; Gal. 6:1-3)
- Step Three: Begin Negotiation
ÒEach of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others.Ó (Phil. 2:4)
Substantive issues should be resolved through a cooperative process in which you work together (offender and offended) to find solutions that meet the interests of ALL those involved. IF a dispute cannot be resolved through this personal peacemaking, step four is necessary.
- Step Four: Seek Mediation
ÒIf he will not listen to you, take one or two others along.Ó (Mat. 18:16)
One or more ÒmediatorsÓ may meet with the offender and offended (and any others involved) to help communicate more effectively and to explore possible solutions. This/these mediator/s can suggest ideas but have no power to impose a solution. Such mediators are NOT members of the CHHS OR the Board; OUTSIDE sources will be used to help in the mediation process. (Such outside mediators could include local pastors, and the council can provide Peacemaker materials to use in actual mediation: Guiding People Through Conflict, and The Peacemaker Workbook). (See also: 1 Cor. 6: 1-9)
STATEMENT OF FAITH
While individual doctrinal differences can exist, all members of the CHHS should share a common faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. Because of this spiritual unity of believers, the core commonalities of our faiths below should support the unity of our Christian Homeschoolers' Hybrid School time together.
I believe that:
- The Bible is the inspired (God-breathed; written by men moved by the Holy Spirit) and is the infallible Word of God (is without error and therefore authoritative in all matters of faith and practice). All scripture as written is considered to be literal except where scripture specifies an analogy or parable. (II Timothy 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:20-21).
- The Genesis account of creation is literal, and is the basis for our scientific explanation of how our world began (Genesis 1:1; 1:31-2:1).
- There is one God eternally existent in three persons: the Father, the Son (Jesus Christ), and the Holy Spirit (Mat. 28: 18, 19; Revelation 1:8).
- Jesus Christ is God come in the flesh, conceived by the Holy Spirit and born of a virgin, being both fully God and fully man, except without sin (John 1:14, 18; Luke 1:26-36; Heb. 4:15).
- Man was originally created by God in a rightful relationship to Himself, but through sin, man fell from this relationship, losing his spiritual life and becoming dead in sin. Thus man, since the fall, is by nature sinful and is inherently in need of salvation (Gen. 1: 27, 3: 1-24; Romans 3:23; Eph. 2: 1-2).
- In response to man's need for salvation, God the Father sent Jesus, His Son, to this world to make atonement for sin. His substitutionary death on the cross and His bodily resurrection from the dead provide the basis for our salvation. His atonement is for all, yet efficient only for those who believe (John 3:16, 17; 1 Tim. 2:3-6, Mark 10:45; Hebrews 10:10, 12; Galatians 2:20; Hebrews 9:11-15; Isaiah 53).
- Salvation is the free gift of God given to the sinner by grace and received by personal faith in the Lord Jesus Christ and His provision on the cross: His shed blood (Acts 4:12; Ephesians 2:8-9; Rom. 11:29).
- Jesus Christ literally and bodily rose from the dead (Matthew 28:6-7; Mark 16; Luke 24; John 11:25; John 20, 21).
- Jesus Christ will literally come to earth again at the Second Coming (Luke 21:27-28).
- The primary purpose in the life of the believer is to glorify God in everything and to make Christ known to the unbelieving world until His return (Col. 3:23, 34; 2 Cor. 5:18-20; 1 Thes. 4:13-18).
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