Collaborative Learning Community (CLC)

Bylaws – Version 2.0

Adopted: July 1, 2025

PREAMBLE

These bylaws provide a framework for how the Collaborative Learning Community (CLC) is governed. As a young and evolving organization, we know our structure and needs will continue to grow and change.

This document is a living one—meant to support our present reality while remaining flexible for the future. The Board is committed to reviewing and updating it as needed and takes seriously its responsibility to represent the values, needs, and voices of the wider CLC community.

ARTICLE I: NAME AND PURPOSE

Section 1.1 – Name

The name of the organization is Collaborative Learning Community, hereafter referred to as CLC.

Section 1.2 – Purpose

CLC is a secular, inclusive, and affirming cooperative supporting homeschooling families through collaborative learning, community building, and values-driven educational experiences.

ARTICLE II: MEMBERSHIP

Section 2.1 – Eligibility

Membership is open to homeschooling families who support CLC’s mission and agree to follow its policies and Code of Conduct.

Section 2.2 – Joining

Families may apply for membership by completing the application process, which includes a background check and orientation.

Section 2.3 – Responsibilities

At least one adult per family must actively participate in co-op activities. Members are expected to uphold CLC’s values, follow community policies, and pay required fees.

Section 2.4 – Termination

Membership may be ended voluntarily by a family or by a Board vote for cause. Termination procedures are outlined in the Member Handbook.

ARTICLE III: GOVERNANCE

Section 3.1 – Role and Structure of the Board

CLC is governed by a Board of Directors composed of at least three voting members, including a Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. Additional roles may be added or adjusted as needed.

The Board oversees both daily operations and long-term planning. As a small organization, CLC’s Board functions as both a governing body and an operational team.

Section 3.2 – Board Eligibility and Terms

Any member family in good standing for at least one full school year is eligible to serve on the Board. Board members serve staggered terms of 1 to 3 school years, as described in the Leadership Handbook.

Section 3.3 – Meetings and Decision-Making

The Board holds at least four formal meetings each year. A quorum is defined as a majority of current voting members. Decisions are made by majority vote of those present.

Informal operational meetings occur more frequently throughout the year to address day-to-day matters.

Section 3.4 – Community Participation and Feedback

CLC hosts an Annual Members' Meeting each spring, prior to the final instructional day. This meeting provides space for community updates, input, and shared reflection.

The Board values feedback from the community and is committed to responding with transparency and care.

Section 3.5 – Tie Votes

If a Board vote results in a tie, the matter may be referred to the general membership.

Section 3.6 – Dual Roles

When necessary, a Board member may temporarily serve in more than one officer role (e.g., Chair and Treasurer). This must be disclosed and recorded in the minutes.

Holding more than one officer role does not grant additional voting power. Each Board member is entitled to one vote, regardless of how many positions they temporarily hold. Financial oversight requirements remain in place, including the two-signature rule for expenses over $250.

ARTICLE IV: FINANCES

Section 4.1 – Fiscal Year

The fiscal year begins July 1 and ends June 30.

Section 4.2 – Budget

An annual budget will be prepared and approved by the Board. Budget summaries will be available to members upon request.

Section 4.3 – Financial Authority

Expenses over $250 must be approved by at least two Board members.

Section 4.4 – Use of Funds

CLC funds must be used to support the mission and operations of the organization.

Additional financial policies, such as reimbursement procedures and fundraising guidelines, are maintained in the Leadership Handbook and reviewed annually by the Board.

ARTICLE V: BOARD MEMBER PROTECTION AND CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Section 5.1 – Board Member Protection

To the fullest extent permitted by law, CLC will indemnify Board members for reasonable expenses and liabilities incurred while acting in good faith and in alignment with the organization’s mission.

Section 5.2 – Conflict of Interest Disclosures

Board members must disclose any potential conflicts of interest and recuse themselves from related decisions.

ARTICLE VI: AMENDMENTS

These bylaws may be amended by a majority vote of the Board after allowing time for community input. Proposed amendments will be shared with members at least seven calendar days in advance of the vote.

The Board will review amendment proposals for alignment with CLC’s mission, needs, and community feedback.

ARTICLE VII: REFERENCE DOCUMENTS

CLC’s day-to-day operations are further supported by Member and Leadership Handbooks. These documents provide detailed policies and practices. If there is ever a conflict between a handbook and these bylaws, the bylaws take precedence.

ARTICLE VIII: REVISIONS

Section 8.1 – Member Notification

Changes to these bylaws will be communicated to members by email and/or posted on the CLC website. Significant revisions will include a summary and effective date.

Section 8.2 – Version Log

CLC will maintain a version log summarizing each update. This log is available to members upon request and will be published publicly on the CLC website alongside the most current version of these bylaws.