FAQs
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About US |
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About Us The Family Homeschool Alliance (FHA) was founded in Spring 2021 by five dedicated mothers seeking a more inclusive and supportive homeschool community. Frustrated with existing options, they envisioned a nonprofit organization where families of all backgrounds could find connection, resources, and educational opportunities. FHA is built by homeschoolers, for homeschoolers. Our founders and members are living this life every day, and that shared experience shapes everything we do. What began with a few families has grown steadily through word of mouth, fueled by a deep belief in the value of community. Today, FHA offers a wide range of programs to support homeschoolers at every stage. Whether you're just starting out or well into your journey, we’re here to help you find connection and encouragement along the way. Our Membership Options1. Community Membership (Base Level – Required for All) 2. Co-op Membership (Weekly In-Person Learning) Our co-op is a traditional, family-led program built on shared effort and mutual support. Each participating family contributes volunteer hours and pays an annual family fee. We keep costs as low as possible to cover essentials while maintaining quality. Parent-led classes include both core academics and enriching electives, creating a well-rounded experience for students and a strong sense of community for families. 3. Hybrid Membership (Drop-Off Academic Program – Launched in Fall 2024) (Drop-Off Academic Program – Launched Fall 2024) The Hybrid Program is a structured, two-day-a-week drop-off option for students in grades K–12. Classes are taught by paid tutors in a rented facility. Parents can choose classes à la carte—selecting one or both days and mixing core academics with extracurriculars based on their family’s needs. While tutors lead the classes, parents remain in charge of their child’s education. You choose what works and how to apply it at home. Our Mission & FutureAt FHA, we believe that homeschooling should be accessible, supportive, and community-driven. Our mission is to foster an environment where:
What started as a small vision has become a thriving reality. The Family Homeschool Alliance is proud to serve homeschooling families, offering the structure, support, and flexibility they need to succeed. |
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What is the Community Membership level? |
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The Community Membership is perfect for homeschool families who want to participate in our field trips, parties, dances, sports, clubs, and round-table events. While many of these events are open to all homeschoolers, Community Members receive priority registration for limited-space activities and access to discounted member pricing. Community Membership is also required to enroll in our Co-op & Hybrid programs. Members get first access to Co-Op class registration each semester. This option is ideal for families who may already have a learning plan that works but still want connection, enrichment, and support. Whether or not you join the Co-op & Hybrid programs, there’s a place for you here—filled with extracurriculars, meetups, parent-inclusive events, and meaningful community. |
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What is the Parent-Led Co-op? |
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Family Homeschool Alliance’s Co-op is a parent-led educational community where homeschooling families gather once a week for classes, connection, and enrichment. At its core, our co-op is about building community—supporting one another while helping students grow, learn, and build lifelong friendships. The co-op is entirely run by families. Parents teach classes, serve in leadership roles, and assist with day-to-day operations. While students benefit from shared learning experiences, parents retain full responsibility for meeting state homeschooling requirements. FHA’s Co-op welcomes all homeschooling families, with no statement of faith required. Our leadership includes families from diverse Christian backgrounds, but we are not an evangelistic ministry. Some classes may be taught from a Christian worldview, but doctrinal instruction is left to parents and churches. We serve Kindergarten through 12th grade and offer nursery and preschool options for younger siblings. The co-op meets once a week for 30 weeks during the school year, from September through May. The year is divided into six units (three per semester), with regular breaks including a two-week holiday break in December. Students typically attend three morning classes from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, followed by an optional fellowship lunch from 12:00 to 1:00 PM. Afternoon clubs and enrichment activities are available from 1:00 to 3:00 PM. As a true cooperative, all families contribute. A parent must remain on campus while their children are present and complete a required number of volunteer hours. Many parents teach classes, but there are also numerous non-teaching roles essential to keeping our co-op thriving. Our co-op is entirely volunteer-run. It thrives because families step up to teach, organize, and support. Without active participation from parents, the program simply cannot happen. |
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What is the Tutor-Led Hybrid Program? |
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The Tutor-Led Hybrid Program meets twice a week for students in Kindergarten through 12th grade. Families can choose to attend one or both days each week. This drop-off program offers students the opportunity to learn alongside friends in a supportive environment, with experienced tutors who teach classes, keep grades, and assign work to complete on days when students are not in session. The school year runs from September through May, with breaks every 5 to 6 weeks. |
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How much does it cost?
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For the school year 2025-2026 Community Membership – $75 per Family (Annually) Community Membership is required for all families participating in our programs. The annual fee of $75 per family includes access to:
While some activities may have an additional cost, many are free for members. Please Note: Parent-Led Co-op Program Registration Registration for the first child is $40, with $15 for each additional child. There is also a $30 supply fee per child. Once your Community Membership, Co-op registration, and supply fees are paid, you’ll connect with our Office Manager to arrange your tuition payment. You can choose either:
This annual fee covers your entire family for all co-op classes. For payment arrangements, please contact our Office Manager at:
Hybrid Program Registration
Hybrid TuitionFor 3rd Grade and Up (per class):
Hybrid Tuition – Block Schedule (2nd Grade & Younger)
Please Note:
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What will the field trips consist of? |
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Our field trips will range from simple park meetups to enriching experiences like museum visits, art galleries, historical sites, and community events such as Safety Village. We believe in the value of exploring and engaging with the world around us—especially within our local community. Supporting local events and organizations will always be a top priority in our planning. As with all things community-based, we deeply value your feedback, suggestions, and willingness to volunteer. Our field trips—and everything we do—are only possible through the support and involvement of our incredible homeschool community. |
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Do you have an online store for merchandise? |
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Yes! We do! Visit our online store at familyhomeschoolalliance.printful.me to check out our latest merchandise. All products are designed by the students and staff at FHA, and new items are added regularly—so be sure to visit often! |
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What is Parents Night Out? |
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What is Parents' Night Out? Parents' Night Out is a series of gatherings held throughout the school year, created just for homeschool parents and guardians. These events focus on meaningful in-person conversations—sharing ideas, gaining inspiration, and connecting with others on the same journey. Each night is a chance to unwind, learn something new, and enjoy good company. From dinners out to dessert meetups and everything in between, every event brings something unique. In the past, we called these gatherings “Round Table,” but the heart remains the same: real conversations and real community. These events are free to attend—just cover your own cost for food or treats. You do not need to be an FHA member to join us. No strings attached—just a warm, welcoming space created to support you and your family. ?? Check out public calendar for dates and times of upcoming Parents' Night Out events. |
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Can we read Family Homeschool Aliance's Bi-laws?
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Yes, you can read them here.
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How can I schedule a visit? |
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To schedule a visit, simply email us at [email protected] and request an appointment. We'd love to meet you, answer your questions, and show you what FHA is all about! |
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What are the rules & policies for FHA? |
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FHA Rules & Policies MEMBERSHIP: Membership to Family Homeschool Alliance is open to all homeschoolers within the general North/West Georgia area. We are based out of Paulding County. For our purposes, “homeschoolers'' are defined as families who file a Home Study Program Declaration of Intent Form (DOI) with the Georgia Department of Education and who follow all applicable Georgia homeschool laws and regulations. Membership is also open to alternative education students (AES). AES are students who are members of a different organization for their education and have not filed a declaration of intent with the state, but wish to participate in some clubs or classes offered by FHA. Registration is to be completed online at the Family Homeschool Alliance, Inc. (FHA) website at www.familyhomeschoolalliance.org. **Upon registration you are committing to the full school year, or remainder thereof. FHA currently has three levels of membership. The foundation level of membership is the Community membership. Community Members have access to all field trips, events, and clubs. Community members may then also sign-up for Co-op and/or Hybrid membership. FHA Co-op membership offers parent-led weekly classes, all run by volunteers. The cost is kept very low and everyone comes together to build a common goal. The Hybrid membership offers twice weekly classes that are tutor-led. The Hybrid program is a drop off program with homework given, supporting families who need more support. FHA Board Members and Lead Tutors will have the first choice in signing up their children for Co-op or Hybrid classes, followed by existing FHA Co-op or Hybrid members, followed by FHA Community Members and then members of FHA’s host church. New members will be allowed to sign up after each group has had sufficient time to register. Registration will not be complete (meaning that your child’s classes will not be secure) until you have paid your fees, signed up for your required volunteer positions (if applicable), and we have received all necessary documentation. CODE OF CONDUCT: All students are expected to speak and act respectfully toward tutors, leaders, other parents and one another. This means students should be attentive in class, follow tutors' instructions, obey safety rules, respect church property, and act in a manner that would bless and encourage others (e.g. no mocking, criticizing, arguing, fighting, use of crude language or joking, or taking the Lord's name in vain). If a student's speech or conduct is inappropriate, he/she will receive an official warning by the tutor and, if inappropriate conduct continues, the student will be removed from the classroom, a parent will be contacted, and if necessary, asked to leave the premises. There will be NO food or drinks (except water-filled closed cover drink containers) allowed in the classrooms; Childcare, Preschool, and K-2 rooms being the exception. 1
PROTECTION OF CHILDREN AND YOUTH: Members must do their best to prevent abuse and neglect among children and youth involved in FHA activities. Physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, and neglect of a child or youth is prohibited and will not be tolerated by the organization. FHA requires all tutors, volunteers, and any other adults who are 18 and above who will regularly attend, must pass a criminal background check annually. FHA also requires all adult members to review the policies contained in this document and sign the last page indicating compliance with policy requirements. Members must report known or suspected inappropriate, suspicious, or suspected grooming behavior toward children or youth to appropriate leaders immediately. The leaders are required to then take the matter to the full FHA Board of Directors who have been trained on mandated reporting. According to Georgia law, in the setting of a homeschool group, we are not considered mandatory reporters. However, it is the view of FHA that the organization shall hold itself to those guidelines. In such an instance, a guide and training can be found at https://oca.georgia.gov/training/mandated-reporting. Any person accused of committing a prohibited act or any act considered by the organization to be harmful will be immediately suspended from participation in all FHA activities. This suspension will continue during any investigation by law enforcement or Child Protective agencies. DRESS: All members, to include adults and students, should dress neatly, modestly, and appropriately for the weather during all FHA activities. No offensive writing or graphics are permitted on clothing. Modest shorts are permissible. Shorts and skirts must be no shorter than fingertip length. Shorts should be worn under younger girls’ skirts. Shirts should cover the midriff, cleavage, and the back. Sleeveless tops are permitted as long as the straps cover bra straps, and the underarm opening does not extend below the chest. Clothing should not be tight. Clothing should not have words specifically across the breasts or buttocks. Jeans are permitted. Pants must be pulled up with no undergarments showing. Shirts are to be worn at all times. STUDENT ENROLLMENT: All children, while on site during classes and clubs, are required to be either enrolled in a class, club, or study hall. If on campus during lunch, the child must be enrolled for the lunch hour and directly supervised. If a child is not participating in a class or club and is fourth grade or older, they will be required to be enrolled in the supervised Study Hall. Study Hall will be a quiet area where students can do homework, read, or listen to music with earbuds. Tutors will be supervising the area each hour. Study Hall must be quiet at all times. If students are working together on a project, it must be at a volume to where the other students working independently can concentrate. There should be absolutely no children roaming the hallways during class hours. No children can regularly be on campus that are not enrolled. Visits or staying with a parent is permitted occasionally. 2
Co-op Program CO-OP VOLUNTEER & DROP OFF POLICY: FHA Co-op is NOT A DROP OFF PROGRAM and at least one parent must be on site at all times while your child/children are present. If you are unable or unwilling to have a parent onsite to volunteer, you will be charged a $60 non-volunteer fee per semester. At the Co-op level, if your child/children are only registered for 1-2 classes, you will be required to volunteer for the amount of time your child/children are registered. Families that have children enrolled in all 3 class hours will be required to volunteer for 2 of the 3 hours per week their child/children are registered. During your off hour, you will be considered a floater and must stay in (or near) the Parent Lounge so that you can be put into an empty volunteer space as required. In the event not all volunteer positions are filled, you will be required to help fill all volunteer positions. There are plenty of opportunities to volunteer to make up hours when you are absent for a day, such as helping set up or clean up events, plan field trips, and volunteer as a lunchtime monitor. Community Member clubs are run Friday afternoons. Parents may drop off for clubs. Co-op members can fulfill some of their volunteer time during club hours as needed or desired as long as we have all of the holes covered during the Co-op classes. On occasion, if it is absolutely necessary for you to be off-site, you must notify the Co-op Director, Miranda Reece. You may do this by email - [email protected], or if time sensitive, by text - 678-300-6602. We must have a completed copy of the NON-CUSTODIAL CHILD/STUDENT CARE AGREEMENT & LIABILITY WAIVER on file before such an instance occurs that designates an adult who will be on campus and directly overseeing your child/children. Your kid's classes are not secure until you have also registered for volunteer slots if you are a Co-op member. CO-OP PAYMENTS: All payments will be made directly to Family Homeschool Alliance, Inc. by online payment, Cash or Check given to the office manager. Registration & Membership Fees: All members of FHA must be a Community Member and pay the annual non-refundable $75 Community Membership fee upon registration. 3
For Co-op, a non-refundable registration fee of $40 for the first child plus an additional $15 per child after the first will also be due upon registration. The non-refundable annual Co-op membership $382.50 fee will then be due within 30 days, or by September 1st, whichever comes first. OR if you prefer, you may set up non-refundable monthly Co-op membership payments of $45 per month per family. Monthly payments will be September-May. If you request Co-op membership after September 1st, the fee will be due within one week unless other arrangements have been approved by the Office Manager. Membership fees are determined by the Board of Directors each calendar year based on budget requirements; see website for current annual cost. All fees are non-refundable.**Upon registration you are committing to the full school year, or remainder thereof. Co-op members who have chosen monthly payments: Monthly Co-op Membership payments will be due on the 5th of every month. If you choose to leave Co-op between the months of September and March, we require a 30 day notice and you will be charged a $90 fee. Our Co-op fee is budgeted on an annual basis, and your commitment for the year. Not only would the budget be affected, but also the group losing a volunteer would affect the function of the program. Supply Fees: There is a $30 supply fee per child for the year. The payments are due by August 1st or upon registration, whichever comes first. Late Fee: A $40 late fee will be assessed the day after the due date unless the Office Manager has approved an alternate arrangement. **Two weeks after the late fee is assessed, if the account is not brought current, the member family will be suspended from participation in any FHA activities until the account is brought current. Members who join and start participating in Co-op after the first unit, will be required to pay a prorated non-refundable Annual Co-op membership fee based on the number of units remaining. You can choose to have monthly membership payments as well. All other fees will remain the same for new registrations into the Co-op level. CO-OP ABSENCES: If you are a Co-op Tutor and you must be absent for any reason, please let the FHA Co-op Director, Miranda Reece, know ASAP by text at 678-300-6602. If you know you will be unavailable for a particular day in advance, please let Miranda know as far in advance as possible. If, for some reason you are unable to reach her, you may contact Jessica Wilcox at [email protected] or 770-670-8737. 4
CO-OP EXCESSIVE ABSENCES: Because of the way FHA Co-op is set up, we rely on families to be present each week to allow the program to run effectively. If there are excessive absences from any family, The Co-op Director and Executive Director will schedule a meeting via zoom, phone call, or in person with that family to resolve the absence issues. In the case where there are over 20% of our families who will be out on any given week, or 50% of our Administration team, we will need to evaluate closely whether we have the ability to run the program in a safe and effective manner. In the event that leadership deems it necessary to cancel classes, emails, texts, and Facebook posts will be sent to tutors and families by 7:30 a.m. at the latest, on the morning of the scheduled Co-op day. With this in mind, all families need to make their call outs as soon as possible, but no later than 6:00 a.m. on the co-op day. Please give us as much forewarning as you can. CO-OP LEAD TUTOR RESPONSIBILITIES: We require that all lead tutors read, understand, and sign the FHA Tutor Expectation Form. The form is to be signed and turned in to our Co-op Director, Miranda Reece, before classes begin. Throughout the year tutors should email families as necessary with updates. Students sometimes forget to tell parents important things! Please be considerate and keep everyone in the loop. All tutors (except Childcare – Preschool) will turn in two Emergency back-up assignments and/or lesson plans, each to their classroom helper and the FHA Co-op Director, to be taught to their class in the event of a tutor unplanned absence. Some examples of back-up assignments could include: DVDs, worksheets, games, and workout lists, all with enough materials to include every student in the class. These one at a time, as needed, back-up assignments will be provided to your helper/substitute in the event that you are unable to come to Co-op due to an emergency and no fore-planning is possible. This system is to be used ONLY for such events and will not be permitted in any other situation. All Emergency back-up assignments, to include copies and materials, are due on the first day of class. NON-CUSTODIAL CHILD/STUDENT POLICY: FHA’s Co-op and clubs operate by a group made up of homeschool families, serving homeschool families. We are a parent dependent and parent run program, and so under normal circumstances non-custodial children are not allowed to attend FHA activities without a registered adult family member or legal guardian. Non-custodial children are defined as children who are not residing in the member’s home and are not in the legal custody of the member’s family. However, there are certain situations where exceptions are permissible. Should the grandparent, or any other immediate family member serve as the main entity responsible for homeschooling in the child's daily schedule, that member is eligible to enroll and bring the child/children. 5
In all other scenarios where children who do not live with their custodial parents wish to attend on-campus, the family must reach out to Co-op Director, Miranda Reece, to make the request. You may do this by emailing [email protected]. Miranda Reece will approve or deny the request. If denied, an appeal to the FHA Board of Directors can be made. The Board of Directors will make a decision on a case-by-case basis and decisions will be final. Should the appeal be approved, the non-custodial child/ren will be allowed on campus under the supervision of the designated adult who will be on campus and directly overseeing the child/children. The non-custodial child’s family must also follow these regulations: ? The non-custodial child’s family MUST agree to complete a membership application along with all membership forms, and pay a separate membership fee for their child/ren ? Fill out a Non-Custodial Child/Student Care Agreement & Liability Waiver ? Written appeals must be made, and exceptions approved on an annual basis
Hybrid Program HYBRID DROP OFF POLICY: FHA Hybrid is A DROP OFF PROGRAM where no parent is required to remain on site while your child/children are present. All children must be walked in and checked in by a parent/guardian and not just simply dropped off at the door. Once checked in, children 4th grade and older may walk on their own to Morning Assembly, or their class if later in the day; children 3rd grade and younger must be walked by their parent/guardian to Morning Assembly or their classroom if later in the day. While on campus, children must be registered in one of the available classes, or Study Hall, and be under the supervision of a Tutor. There should be absolutely no children roaming the hallways during any class hours. All children must be picked up by their parent/guardian, or person previously designated on the pickup list. No child will be allowed to leave with someone not on the pickup list. Children must be picked up at the end of classes at 4pm. There will be a late pickup fee charged to your account of $10 per every 10 minutes you’re late, for children picked up later than 4:15 after their last class. HYBRID PAYMENTS: All payments will be made directly to Family Homeschool Alliance, Inc. by online payment, Cash or Check given to the office manager. 6
Registration & Membership Fees: All members of FHA must be a Community Member and pay the non-refundable annual $75 Community Membership fee upon registration. For Hybrid, a non-refundable registration fee of $175 per child will also be due upon registration. There will also be a non-refundable monthly Hybrid tuition of $75 per class per month for 2-day a week classes, and $40 per class per month for 1-day a week classes, which will be due by the 5th of each month. Children in 2nd grade and younger attend on a block schedule. Attending 1 day a week ½ days being $100 per student per month, and full day $200 per student per month. Attending 2 days a week for ½ days would be $200 per student per month, and 2 full days $400 per student per month. Membership fees are approved by the Board of Directors each calendar year based on budget requirements. Payment plans are available upon request. All fees are non-refundable. **Upon registration you are committing the full school year, or remainder thereof. Supply Fees: Classes may require supply fees to be paid by the parents as indicated in the class descriptions. The payments are due by September 1st or upon registration, whichever comes first. Late Fee: A $40 late fee will be assessed the day after the due date unless the office manager has approved an alternate arrangement. **Two weeks after the late fee is assessed, if the account is not brought current, the member family will be suspended from participation in any FHA activities until the account is brought current. Members who join and start participating in Hybrid any time throughout the year, will be required to pay all the same new registrations fees and monthly tuition into the Hybrid level from that time forward. HYBRID ABSENCES: If you are a Hybrid Tutor and you must be absent for any reason, please let the Executive Director, Jessica Wilcox, know at 770-670-8737 or email her at [email protected]. If you know you will be unavailable for a particular day in advance, please let Jessica know as far in advance as possible. 7
HYBRID EXCESSIVE ABSENCES: Because of the way FHA Hybrid is set up, we rely on families to be present each week to allow the program to run effectively. In the case where there are over 20% of our families who will be out on any given day, or 50% of our Administration team, we will need to evaluate closely whether we have the ability to run the program in a safe and effective manner. In the event that the Administration deems it necessary to cancel classes; emails, texts, and Facebook posts will be sent to tutors and families by 7:30 a.m. at the latest, on the morning of the scheduled Hybrid day. With this in mind, all families need to make their call outs as soon as possible, but no later than 6:00 a.m. on Hybrid day. Please give us as much forewarning as you can. HYBRID LEAD TUTOR RESPONSIBILITIES: We ask that all lead tutors read, understand, and sign your contract as an Independent Contractor. The form is to be signed and turned in to our Executive Director, Jessica Wilcox, before class begins. Throughout the year tutors are asked to email families as necessary with updates and homework. Students sometimes forget to tell parents important things! Please be considerate and keep everyone in the loop. All Tutors (except Preschool) should turn in two Emergency back-up assignments and/or lesson plans, each to their classroom helper and the FHA Hybrid Director, to be taught to their class in the event of a Tutor unplanned absence. Some examples of back-up assignments could include: DVDs, worksheets, games, and workout lists, all with enough materials to include every student in the class. These one at a time, as needed, back-up assignments will be provided to your substitute in the event that you are unable to come to hybrid due to an emergency and no fore-planning is possible. This system should be used for such events and not in any other situation. All Emergency back-up assignments, to include copies and materials, are due by the first day of class. HYBRID TUTOR ABSENCES: If you are a Hybrid Tutor and you must be absent for any reason, please let the FHA Executive Director, Jessica Wilcox, know ASAP by text at 770-670-8737 . If you know you will be unavailable for a particular day in advance, please let Jessica know as far in advance as possible. HYBRID Substitutes: As a Hybrid Tutor if you are in need of a substitute, The Substitute list will be made available to you of parents and other qualified adults and will be paid the rate of the tutor they are subbing for. 8
FHA’s Community Community Membership: Clubs meet on a variety of days, most will be on days FHA meets for Hybrid classes or Co-op. Parents may drop off for clubs that meet at FHA’s current location. There may be some clubs that require parents to stay and supervise their children. It is the member’s responsibility to read the club requirements fully. Co-op members can fulfill some of their volunteer time during club hours as needed or desired as long as we have all of the holes covered during the Co-op day. Any member of FHA can suggest field trips, events, or clubs. Please submit ideas to any of the Directors for approval. Our activities committee is made of students and parents of the community. All are welcome to join the community to plan and participate in ideas. All community events will be put on the website's calendar which syncs with our app and your calendar as well. These events are for any and all community members to sign up and attend. All clubs are open to community members for enrollment. No volunteer hours are required for community members, but volunteers are always welcome. Some clubs may require volunteers. General STUDENT GUIDELINES: We require that all parents and students read, understand, and sign the FHA Student Rules and Policies Form to be turned in to the Directors before attending the first day of class, club or event. It is expected that members relay that respectful behavior is mandatory in each and every FHA setting. Respectful behavior includes, but is not limited to the following: ? Listening to and not interrupting the tutor while class or activity is being conducted. This can be very distracting for not only the tutor, but also fellow students.
? Raising a hand to request to speak if open discussion is not part of the current lesson plan for a particular week. ? Participating in class or activity, to the fullest of the student’s ability. Tutors work hard to prepare for and impart important information to the students. ? Completing any assigned homework. Some tutors may send students home with work. To get the most out of class we ask that parents ensure it is completed in a timely fashion.
If a student chooses not to participate respectfully or he/she wishes not to continue in a class, for any reason, please notify the Tutor and the Directors as soon as possible. Often, we have waiting lists for the classes or activities and other students will happily fill a student’s spot. 9
CLASSROOM RATIO REQUIREMENTS: Two adults in each classroom is the ideal setting. Exceptions can be made for older classes (6th grade and up) but the door must remain open. Tutors can request additional adults as needed. No male volunteers will be allowed to change diapers or help with toileting unless the child is their own. Ratio requirements by age are as follows: ? Childcare (birth-5 years): 1:4 with a max enrollment of 12 ? Preschool (2-5 years): 1:4 with max enrollment of 12 ? K-1st (5-7 years): 1:5 with max enrollment of 12 ? 2-3rd (7-9 years): 1:6 ? 4-6th (9-12 years): 1:8 ? 6-12th (11-18 years): 1:12
Minimum class registration for any class will be 4 students for Co-op and 5 students for Hybrid, unless otherwise noted and approved by the Directors, parent and Tutor. Maximum class size, if not limited by square footage, Directors, or tutor preference, will be no larger than 12. If a wait list is present at the conclusion of registration, it will be left to the discretion of the Directors and the tutor, if square footage allows, to then add the students on the waitlist to the active class roster. If a tutor is out of ratio it is his or her responsibility to immediately notify the Directors or other leadership. Diligent efforts will be made to immediately bring ratios into compliance with this policy. In the event that classrooms are combined and ages mixed, the ratios followed will be those in compliance for the youngest children in the room. BATHROOM SUPERVISION AND ASSISTANCE GUIDELINE: Childcare and Preschool Children Diapering ? Changing of diapers should be done in plain sight of other nursery workers. ? Children must never be left unattended on changing tables. ? Any special instructions given by parents leaving children in nursery will be recorded. ? Children should be re-diapered and re-clothed immediately upon the completion of changing their soiled diaper. ? Children should be changed on changing stations only.
Toilet training ? No child will be forced to toilet train. ? When children are taken into bathrooms the door will be left partially open. ? Young children will never be left unattended in bathrooms. ? Parents should be consulted on each child’s progress in the toilet training
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? process before leaving the child with volunteers. Any special instructions given by parents leaving children in the nursery will be recorded (“Lyla can use the toilet, but she needs to be reminded – ask her if she needs to go.”). ? Children should be assisted in straightening their clothing before returning to the room with other children. ? “Accidents” should be handled by reassuring the child and completing the changing of diapers or underwear and clothing. Extra clothing and diapers need to be brought in by the parent each week.
School age children ? School age children may be accompanied to the restroom for supervision and assistance when needed. (However, children should receive the minimum amount of assistance needed based upon their individual capabilities.) ? If a volunteer must go into the restroom to check on an individual child, he/she should open the exterior bathroom door and ask if the child needs assistance. If the child requires assistance, the worker should leave the exterior bathroom door open when entering the bathroom area and try to verbally assist the child in completing their activities, while the child remains behind the door of the bathroom stall. ? Any assistance with the straightening or fastening of garments should be done in the presence of another staff member or volunteer.
Special needs ? Parents will offer instruction to volunteers to change the diapers of special needs individuals. After the age of 4, parents or legal guardians will change all special needs individuals.
DISCIPLINE: Members are prohibited from using physical discipline in any way for behavior management of minors. No form of physical discipline is acceptable to include spanking, slapping, pinching, hitting, or any other physical force as retaliation or correction of inappropriate behaviors by minors. If a minor is unruly or fails to comply with verbal warnings or instructions, the minor’s parent will be contacted and the child may be asked to leave the class. In the event of a fight or physical altercation, members will verbally redirect minors involved and will try to avoid physical intervention. Uncontrollable or unusual behavior should be reported immediately to parents and the leadership team. Verbal interactions between adults and minors at any FHA event should be positive and uplifting. Do not talk to minors in a way that is or could be construed by any reasonable observer as harsh, threatening, intimidating, shaming, derogatory, demeaning, or humiliating. In addition, adult members are expected to refrain from swearing in the presence of minors. 11 PHYSICAL CONTACT: A ‘physical contact policy’ is implemented which promotes a positive, nurturing environment while protecting children and youth. The following guidelines are to be carefully followed: ? Hugging, pats on the back and other forms of appropriate physical affection between adults and children/youth are important for their development, and are generally suitable in the FHA setting. ? Inappropriate touching and inappropriate displays of affection are forbidden. Any inappropriate physical contact, touching or displays of affection should be immediately reported. ? Physical contact should be for the benefit of the child/youth, and never be based upon the emotional needs of an adult. ? Physical contact and affection should be given only in observable places or when in the presence of other students and volunteers. It is much less likely that touch will be inappropriate or misinterpreted when physical contact is open to observation. Physical contact in any form should not give even the appearance of wrongdoing. Personal conduct must be above reproach. ? Do not force physical contact, touch or affection on a reluctant child. A child/youth’s preference not to be touched must be respected.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION: All situations where many families or individuals come together will experience conflict. FHA is an organization that is building a strong community and so in order to deal with conflict in a quick and fair way, leadership has used the guidance of Matthew 18 to put together a list of guidelines to use to come to a resolution. 1) Go directly to the person you are having a hard time with, or to the parents of the children. DO NOT go to a minor to discuss a problem. Discuss the problem in an open and kind way between just the parties involved. 2) If step one does not resolve the problem, please approach one or two people on the leadership team so that they can then go with you to discuss the problem between the small group of those involved. 3) If step two is ineffective, the leadership members involved will then take the issue to the full leadership team and discuss how the problem should be resolved from there.
OUTDOOR FACILITY USE: Students are permitted to be outside in the approved areas with adult supervision, before classes, during the lunch hour, and after classes. Adult supervision is for everyone’s safety and use of outside facilities will not be permitted otherwise. TRANSPORTATION: Members may from time to time be in a position to provide transportation to non family members. The following guidelines should be strictly 12 observed when volunteers are involved in the transportation of children or youth: ? Children/Youth should be transported directly to their destination. Unauthorized stops to a non-public place should be avoided. Volunteers should avoid transportation circumstances that leave only one child in transport. ? Volunteers should avoid physical contact with children/youth while in vehicles. ? There is always to be no less than two adult volunteers in the vehicle.
FHA takes no responsibility or liability in the decision families make to share rides to activities. That is an agreement between the adults and families involved. SNOW/INCLEMENT WEATHER: FHA will consider the Paulding, Douglas, and Cobb County Public School policy and decision for snow/inclement weather days. Emails will be sent to Tutors and families by 7:30 a.m. or as soon as it’s known, on the morning of the scheduled school day. If they cancel school for the entire day, then classes are canceled. Should there be a two-hour delay, we may still have classes starting at the normal 9:00 a.m. hour, unless otherwise notified. Of course, we need to allow for some flexibility for this type of situation. If FHA chooses to have school and you feel the need to stay home for the safety of your family, please make that decision to do so, and please let one of the directors know. You are not expected to travel to and from FHA, if your home lies in a section of the county that has not yet been treated for the weather. Due to the highly varying storm systems and topographical regions within our area, one home might have traversable roads, while others do not. Again, please use your best judgment. MAKE-UP DAYS: We will not be holding make-up days. If we must close due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances the tutor will rework their syllabus when possible to cover the material. Of course, if the weather causes an unusual amount of canceled meetings, we will revisit this topic and notify you accordingly. RESOURCES: FHA or Tutors will provide copies and materials for teaching classes and will not be utilizing the host church’s resources. NO supplies of any kind are to be used or removed from the host church. FHA will leave each room the same or in better condition after use. Students staying for lunch are responsible for bringing all necessary paper supplies. FHA will fulfill the needs of cleaning supplies. LUNCH: The lunch hour on Hybrid and Co-op days will take place in the designated lunch area. There will be a clean up time at the end of every lunch hour and all adults and children are responsible for cleaning up after themselves. Please be sure that food and drinks are kept strictly in the lunch areas. Only water-filled closed cover drink containers are permitted. With the exception of younger classes needing snack time. 13 Photo Release: I hereby grant Family Homeschool Alliance, Inc. (FHA) permission to use the likeness of any FHA family and/or individual family member in a photograph, video, or other digital media (“photo”) in any and all of its publications, including web-based publications, without payment or other consideration. I understand and agree that all photos will become the property of FHA and will not be returned. I hereby irrevocably authorize the FHA to edit, alter, copy, exhibit, publish, or distribute these photos for any lawful purpose. In addition, I waive any right to inspect or approve the finished product wherein my likeness appears. Additionally, I waive any right to royalties or other compensation arising or related to the use of the photo. If you do not wish to grant FHA full Photo release, you may request the Photo Refusal form. ***FHA reserves the right to refuse membership to our organization. We may not be able to accommodate all membership requests.*** No person shall be subject to unlawful discrimination based on race; national or ethnic origin; color; sex; religion; age; sexual orientation; gender expression or identity; pregnancy; marital status; familial status; economic status or source of income; mental or physical disability. Members agree to also not discriminate against any other member, tutor, or administration. Any member may resign from FHA by a written notice, some fees may apply, and notice is required for Co-op members, to any of the following: the Co-op Director ([email protected]), the Hybrid Director ([email protected]), or the Executive Director ([email protected]) based on membership. Membership may also be terminated by a majority vote of the Board for failure to act ethically and/or responsibly with regards to the activities and other members of this group. Terminations, whether voluntary or involuntary, determined before July 31st of the current school year will be eligible for a complete refund of the membership dues. Any dues paid after that date are non-refundable and prorated accordingly as outlined. Community Membership, registration fees, supply fees or other fees paid are non-refundable and not prorated. If you had been placed on a payment plan, all fees are due immediately upon termination. As a member of Family Homeschool Alliance, Inc., I have read, understand, agree, and will adhere to the above rules and policies. Signature________________________________________Date__________________ Printed Name ________________________________________________ 14 |