EXEL Guidelines

Guidelines for EXEL Homeschool Co-op

All families who desire to participate in EXEL must agree to abide by its rules and guidelines in order to register and attend classes and activities.

A. Mission Statement

EXEL Homeschool Co-op exists to come alongside Christian homeschooling families who are striving to walk in accordance with God’s Word and to aid them in their homeschooling journey by providing educational opportunities and wholesome activities in an encouraging and respectful environment.

Family Registration and Membership Responsibilities

Families must be regular in attendance and give notice as much in advance as possible for any absences, as this will require the assignment of another EXEL member to perform the absent parent’s classroom duties or other assigned tasks. Vacations, doctor appointments, etc. should be scheduled on non-co-op days, as much as possible.
Families must commit to participate in EXEL through the entire semester, absent any unforeseen intervening circumstances.
Each family must enroll at least one child who is at least of kindergarten age or older; that is at least 5 years old by September 1^st, or by board approval if the oldest child's birthday is after September 1st.
All families must pay a Registration Fee of $40 per child, not to exceed a total cost per family of $120 per semester; and pay Class Fees per child that generally range from $3 to $12 per class, but could be higher depending on materials needed. Class Fees are also required for students who only want to audit a class (per approval). Registration Fees are due upon registration to the co-op and again in December. Class Fees are due upon enrollment in classes, before the start of each semester. A special events fee of $20 will be collected with Class Fees before co-op begins or before 2^nd semester for new families. The event fee offsets some of the cost of end of semester celebrations.
Registration Fees are non-refundable, while Class Fees are refundable up to one week prior to the start of classes.
Class changes can be made by midnight of the 3rd meeting day. After that, a student may be pulled from a class and moved to study hall at any point in the semester. In both these cases, no refund is given for the class they leave. Class fee to the new class is due the day the change is made.
If a student does not have all materials required for the class (listed on the class description on the website) by the 3rd meeting date, that student will be pulled from the class and placed in study hall. Class fees will be forfeited.
Parents who attend, or plan to attend, the co-op more than twice must agree to and pay for a background check.
A non-family member but lives with the family and attends co-op is included in the fees for the family.
A non-family member who does not live with the family, but is regularly homeschooled by the family, must register separately (and pay fees) but can attend with the family they regularly homeschool with.
Any family who leaves while a semester is on-going will need Board approval if they decide later to reapply for membership, and may be subject to special limitations or a probationary period upon returning.
EXEL is a co-op founded on Christian principles that include love, respect, and grace. We recognize that there are varying convictions among families, so in an effort to respect those convictions and uphold Scriptural teachings such as found in Romans 14:13 (Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this – not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s way.), we have taken the following stances:
1. Halloween – while fall themes are welcomed, we avoid jack 0’ lanterns, bats, witches, and other symbols of Halloween.
2. Christmas – while celebrating the birth of Christ is encouraged, we avoid commercial themes of Santa and the like.
3. Valentine’s Day – as a compromise, we celebrate Valentine’s strictly at the lunch period when those who do not wish to participate have the option to leave for that period.
4. Easter/Resurrection Day – while we encourage the celebration of our risen Savior, we avoid commercial themes of the Easter bunny and the like.
5. Pledge of Allegiance – If a teacher of a social studies class (history, government, etc.) would like to incorporate the Pledge of Allegiance as part of the class, we ask that this information be included in the class description so that the parents will be aware and can choose classes according to their personal convictions.

C. Attendance and Absences

Absences from registered classes are limited to five (5) per year. Students who are absent are responsible for obtaining and completing work assignments from teachers and taking missed tests/quizzes.
Children who exhibit symptoms of a communicable illness such as a fever or vomiting, or that have other infectious conditions such as lice, etc., should not attend classes. Members should be free of contagious symptoms for 24 hours (fever, vomiting, diarrhea). Illnesses and family emergencies are excused absences. Families should consider whether it’s in the best interest of the co-op for any of the family members to attend when one is sick.
Kindergarten or older child(ren) may attend the co-op day under the supervision of another family (who must be named to a board member) if their parent is unable to attend that week for reasons other than sickness, and must have prior board approval; or in the case of non-contagious illness in their family, also with prior board approval. This will be treated on a case by case basis, as the circumstances are most likely individual.
Children are not allowed to attend EXEL classes or activities without their parent being present at the facility. A designated guardian is acceptable but the family must provide advanced notice and obtain Board approval.

Parents are responsible for their children when they are not in class or a scheduled activity.
A study hall will be provided for students in middle school and older who are not enrolled in class. Those students enrolled in study hall must stay in the study hall classroom.
In the event of inclement weather, we will follow the closures of the local Canton Public Schools. A public-school delayed opening will be a co-op closure day. In the event we have more than 25% of teachers absent, co-op will likely be cancelled. Please watch for forum emails, Facebook posts and/or texts for this information.

Family - General Appearance and Behavior

Family members are to exemplify excellent moral character, courteous and respectful speech, and gracious behavior; and will look for opportunities to help others and encourage them with kind words.
Family members will not use nicotine products or electronic cigarettes or vape, or consume or possess alcohol or illegal substances while at EXEL, and will not be allowed to participate or remain at EXEL while under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance (prescription or otherwise).

Parents will teach and insure that their children will
1. Respect all adults and students.
2. Respect the facility and leave it cleaner than they found it.
3. Be a blessing to their classmates, teachers and others, and not be a distraction by being discourteous, late, or ill-mannered.
4. Obey the instructions of teachers and other parents working at EXEL.
5. Use the restroom/get water during the first 5-minute passing period, so as not to disrupt class instruction.
6. Be respectful of scriptural teachings in class, and of prayers led by the adults or other students.
7. Not participate in conversations or sharing materials or pictures or videos, that would be considered inappropriate for children of any age, or not in line with the EXEL Statement of Faith or are otherwise offensive, demeaning, or threatening to others.
8. Not participate in/with fighting, slander, profanity, weapons, physical or verbal insults. Profane and vulgar behavior/videos/writing will also not be tolerated on digital devises and will be grounds for confiscation, followed by a conversation with a parent in order to have the device returned.

Families are financially responsible for any damage done to the facilities by their children.
Family members will consistently wear name tags (printed/provided by EXEL) during co-op, so that their name is visible. A lost/misplaced name tag will be charged $5 to the family account so that a new name tag can be provided.

Family visitors are allowed on EXEL class days with prior board approval. This includes children of an EXEL member who attends a private/public school but are out on break and need parental supervision or extended family, such as grandparents.
Only students enrolled in a class may attend; no other students are allowed in the room.
Dress Code

It is the desire of EXEL for families to honor God in our appearance; therefore family members will wear clothing that is modest, not low cut or tight fitting or revealing. Tightly-fitted pants or shorts should have a long top to cover the bottom.
No see-through clothing or bare midriff
Undergarments, including bra straps, underwear, etc, should be concealed
Shorts should be mid-thigh or longer. Skirts should fall just above the knee or lower
No graphically offensive, vulgar or inappropriate wording on clothing or hats; and offensive tattoos need to be covered so that others are not caused to be embarrassed, offended, or threatened
The board reserves the right to determine if an attendee’s dress is appropriate for co-op days and co-op sanctioned events. When representing the co-op, all should represent the guidelines.

Teachers - Classroom Responsibilities

Parents will instruct, co-teach, or assist each class period, or perform other tasks such as monitoring students or cleaning as approved in advance by the EXEL Board.
Teachers must submit an accurate and complete syllabus to the Board before class enrollment begins. The syllabus will include a list of assignments with deadline dates, along with the dates of any tests. If the syllabus is altered, a copy will be sent to the Admin. to upload and a forum post created by the teacher to tell of the change.
Teachers are responsible for leading and instructing students in a well-prepared manner, overseeing class participation and distributing assignments, and for administering tests and grading students. Teachers must also timely communicate with students and their parents about their progress in class and any health, safety, or behavioral issues that may arise. Junior and High school teachers are encouraged to keep grades on the website.
Teachers are required to timely report to the EXEL Board any significant problems with a student’s education, health, safety or well-being.
Teachers and Teaching Assistants are prohibited while in class from using mobile or smart telephones, except in exigent circumstances that require their immediate attention such as an injured family member, accident or other serious event or emergency.

Teachers will use the last five minutes of class to supervise students in cleaning classrooms. Last period Teachers will make sure that classrooms are returned to the condition and placement of equipment and furniture as shown in the picture contained in the room file folder.
Teachers will be given information at the beginning of each semester regarding a budget amount that they may spend. Teachers should submit receipts to the treasurer as they spend it for reimbursement, up to the allotted amount. Teacher and class name need to be attached to the receipt. Once your budget is reached, there will be no more reimbursement. Tax is not reimbursable since we are now 501.c3; use the tax-exempt letter provided to avoid that expense. For those who choose Zelle, payment will be sent the first week of each month, and should be immediately received in their bank account. For those who choose reimbursement by check, payment will be initiated the first week of each month, but may take up to 2 weeks to receive. Reimbursement is to be used for class expenses such as purchasing books and supplies, and materials for specific class-related projects or activities. Any left-over materials, supplies and books are property of EXEL and should be returned to the co-op at the end of year.
A supply closet is located at the co-op. Teachers are encouraged to check there for materials they may be able to use before purchasing.

Parent - Interaction in the Educational Process

Parents have the ultimate responsibility for planning and monitoring their children’s education, and are encouraged to communicate with and support the efforts of Teachers of their children.
Parents will insure that their children are regular in attendance, and timely turn in all required assignments and take required tests/quizzes, and that they are reasonably prepared to fully participate in class activities.
If a student does not timely turn in an assignment or take a test, the student’s Teacher will keep record of the discrepancy. Three such discrepancies by a student may result in a discussion between the parent and Teacher and possibly a member of the EXEL Board concerning how to best proceed. If the student should miss assignments or tests etc. due to illness or family emergency or other urgent situations, the discrepancy may be waived at the discretion of the EXEL Board.
Parents are responsible for generating their children's high school transcripts. EXEL maintains student records for class enrollment purposes, but is not state accredited nor does it generate student transcripts.

Student Responsibilities and Discipline

Students are responsible to adequately prepare themselves before classes in order to fully participate in class discussion/activities.
Students will complete and turn in to their Teachers all homework assignments and take tests/quizzes when they are due.
Students may not use mobile phones or other communications or entertainment devices during class, and all such items must be put away otherwise they may be confiscated by the Teacher and returned after class ends.
Students who consistently fall behind in a class due to an inability or unwillingness to participate or timely complete homework assignments or tests, will be removed from class and reassigned to study hall when it is clear they no longer have the ability to obtain a passing grade. While the student will not be readmitted to the class, he may finish class materials at home under the supervision of a parent. In the event a student is removed from a class, there are no refunds.
Students will stay in areas at such times that are designated in advance for their use, and are not to leave the EXEL facility grounds without parental permission. No students should be in classrooms during lunch period.
Students may not engage in displays of affection, or inappropriate or offensive touching or make improper gestures or statements toward others.
Students are forbidden from possessing any type of weapons while at EXEL, and such conduct will be grounds for immediate removal from the facility. Pocket knives, if kept under control, are allowed.
Students who are disruptive or uncooperative or engage in improper, unlawful or harmful behavior may be required to remain in their parent’s continuous presence while at EXEL, or depending on the severity of the circumstances may be removed from class or temporarily or indefinitely suspended, or expelled.

Conflict Resolution

Unfortunately, interpersonal problems do occasionally occur, whether from personality conflicts, misunderstandings, or differences of opinions. It is important that these situations are addressed according to the Biblical principles found in Matthew 18. First, we encourage parents to seek to resolve these issues on their own, even when it involves a classroom concern. If the situation involves children of any age, we encourage parents to walk alongside their children and guide them in applying the Biblical principles. If a mutual resolution cannot be met, then we encourage the parties to seek additional help from a member of the leadership board.

Nursery

Children registered in the nursery are required to bring a bag including diapers, wipes, change of clothing and snacks/drink.
Only authorized persons will be allowed to be in the nursery classroom.

I. Special Accommodations and Notice of Medical Conditions

Families must make any requests for special accommodations for their children in writing with the EXEL Board. Specific issues may include requests not to publish a child’s photos in the EXEL yearbook or on its website, or in other outside media, or to excuse the child from participating in specific activities, or be related to specific learning challenges.
Students with medical disabilities who need special accommodations: this should be brought to the attention of the EXEL Board prior to registration to ensure that adequate provisions can be made.
Families with children who have allergies or other health issues that require special attention or may result in the need for medical attention are required to fill out a form to submit at registration. EXEL is NOT an allergy-free environment. Teachers will be notified of student allergies and will take precautions, but the ultimate responsibility lies with the parents. Parents should also talk to the teachers/assistants about severe allergies. A note can be made on the student’s nametag to alert adults working with said child.
Families must timely disclose prior to registration the existence of any mental condition or behavioral issues their children have that may result in a danger to themselves or others.

J. Graduation

EXEL may help sponsor a graduation for any senior that is or has been part of EXEL Homeschool Co-op at any

point. Expenses for graduation are the sole responsibility of the families that are involved. The EXEL board will support the graduation event by guiding the participating families with past graduation information. While the families of graduates must plan and execute the graduation exercises, EXEL families may be invited to participate in multiple capacities, including serving, ushering, etc.

______________________________________________ __________________

of Parent/Guardian (for entire document) Date

EXEL HOMESCHOOL COOP

Policy

Sexual Misconduct and Interpersonal Violence

PURPOSE

EXEL has zero-tolerance for sexual misconduct or harassment, or any type of physical violence or psychological intimidation, whether threatened or actual, that is committed against an individual participating in our program. This policy also prohibits any other types of conduct that unreasonably interferes with an individual's work or academic performance or creates an intimidating, hostile, humiliating, or offensive academic environment.

EXEL is committed to maintaining an educational environment free from harassment or discrimination based on an individual's gender assigned at birth, or ethnic or national origin, race or age.

EXEL's Board of Directors have the discretion to implement disciplinary action against any EXEL member who violates the prohibitions or requirements of this policy. This could include the removal of an individual or entire family from further membership and participation in the Coop.

All members of EXEL Co-op are required to refrain from engaging in any misconduct covered by this policy.

Sexual Misconduct Prohibited

Sexually based misconduct of any type is prohibited and includes, but is not limited to, the following:

Sexual Assault or Molestation – Described as any forcible or non-consensual sexual contact directed against another person, including instances in which an individual is incapable of giving consent due to their age or incapacity. In the case of children, any sexual contact with them is by law considered a crime.

Sexual Exploitation - Occurs when a person takes advantage of a child to exploit or otherwise cause them to participate in or be present during any sexually explicit or suggestive behavior. This includes suggestive language or actions that occur in the presence of a child, with or without the child's active participation or knowledge. The presence of pornography or any other sexually explicit or suggestive materials around children is by nature exploitive; and therefore, is prohibited while participating in EXEL Co-op sponsored programs or activities.

Grooming – Defined as befriending and establishing an emotional connection with a child or child’s family member, with the aim of lowering the child’s inhibitions with the objective of sexual abuse.

Sexual Harassment - This includes any unwelcome sexual advance or request for sexual favors or any other conduct of a sexual nature that is directed at an individual. Sexual harassment may include the use of fear or intimidation to induce the belief that compliance with a sexual advance is required to keeping a job or to be successful educationally or otherwise. Sexual Harassment often causes severe physical and mental distress and a hostile educational or working environment.

Dating Violence - Defined as violence on the basis of sex committed by a person who is in or has been in a social relationship of a romantic or intimate nature with another individual. This may include, but is not limited to, unwanted touching or sexual or physical abuse, or threatening language or actions, or otherwise repeatedly or severely harassing or intimidating an individual.

Interpersonal Violence Prohibited

Interpersonal violence is defined as threatening or committing acts that are reasonably calculated to cause an individual to suffer substantial fear or anxiety or other harmful phycological or physical reactions or injuries. This includes the following behaviors that are expressly prohibited:

Bullying - Defined as repeated or severe aggressive behavior likely or intended to physically or mentally intimidate, control, diminish or harm another person or endanger their health, safety or well-being. This may involve the use of threatening or verbally abusive language, or provoking or touching an individual repeatedly without their consent.

Stalking - Defined as engaging in a repeated course of conduct such as following or threating or intimidating an individual, that would cause a reasonable person to fear for their continued safety or the safety of others or cause substantial emotional distress.

Discrimination Prohibited

Discrimination includes threatening or causing physical or psychological harm, or engaging in demeaning language or verbal abuse, or singling out and treating an individual detrimentally or in an unreasonable manner based on an individual's gender or ethnic or national origin, or race or age. This provision is violated when the discriminatory conduct causes significant physical discomfort or mental anxiety, or diminishes an individual's ability to fully participate or continue in the educational process at EXEL Coop.

MANDITORY REPORTING AND COOPERATION

All members are obligated to immediately report any violation of this policy, whether directedly witnessed or reported to them, to the EXEL Board of Directors. Any member who has cause to believe that a child’s physical or mental health or welfare has been adversely affected by abuse or neglect by any person is required under state law to file a report within 48 hours with local or state law enforcement, or with the Department of Family and Protective Services.

Any member of EXEL Co-op who becomes aware that a child had been exposed to a dangerous or seriously threatening or traumatizing situation, must immediately take steps to safe guard the child and notify a parent so they can quickly respond to ensure the safety and well-being of their child. In a case where a child is seriously injured, members are obligated to immediately call 911 for emergency medical assistance.

All members are required to fully cooperate with any inquiry by the EXEL Board of Directors into reports or circumstances that involve a potential violation of this policy.

All members are prohibited from engaging in any form of retaliation or abusive or other inappropriate behavior or criticism toward any member who reports a violation of this policy, or toward any other members who provide information or conduct an inquiry into such matters.

The EXEL Board of Directors has the authority and may contact law enforcement, medical personnel or other governmental authorities in situations they believe have or are creating a substantial danger to the health and well-being or safety of a child or that violate the law.

EXEL Board of Directors will take whatever actions it deems are necessary to protect members from potential or actual threats to their safety and well-being, and to insure compliance with this policy.

Members are encouraged to seek out more information about the topics covered by this policy, including how to identify and avoid situations in which their child could become a victim of sexual abuse.

Nothing in this policy should be construed as prohibiting a member from reporting to any entity a situation they believe violates the law or is a matter of public concern.