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ECCHO Fine Arts Handbook

Ellis County Christian Homeschool Organization
Fine Arts Handbook

 

ECCHO Fine Arts Leadership 24-25

Fine Arts Director: Stacey Bailey

Theater Director: Stacey Bailey

Theater Co-Directors: Jennifer Flachman, Kristen Parnell

Yearbook Director: Katie Wheeler, Tiffany Moon

Choir Director:  Sierrah Garcia

 

 

ECCHO Culture

ECCHO believes that the fine arts are an essential part of a well-rounded education. Our programs are designed to fulfill ECCHO’s mission by providing creative, hands-on learning opportunities that enrich a student’s academic and spiritual growth. Each Fine Arts program complements lessons learned at home, helping students develop confidence, discipline, and excellence as they learn to shine the light of Christ in every area of life. ECCHO Fine Arts is committed to a disciple-driven approach to education, rooted in a Biblical worldview.

What It Means To Be An ECCHO Eagle

Mission

The purpose of ECCHO Fine Arts is to engage students in creative expression as image-bearers of God, the Ultimate Creator. Through the arts, students are encouraged to grow in wisdom, imagination, and excellence while reflecting Christ’s light in everything they do. Our goal is to cultivate both mind and character in an environment that models Christ-like behavior among students, leaders, and families. We are called to be different—set apart for His glory—with our focus on Jesus Christ and our desire to make His light known through the gifts and talents He has given us.

Commitment

Commitment from both students and parents is a vital part of character development. When a student joins an ECCHO Fine Arts program, it represents a promise to the team and to the learning process. Any potential scheduling conflicts with other organizations or activities should be discussed with program directors in advance. ECCHO Fine Arts programs are expected to take priority once a commitment is made. While directors will remain understanding of family schedules, maintaining consistency and dependability is essential to the success and integrity of each program.

Eligibility

Attendance

Every program functions best when all members are present and engaged. Directors will provide schedules as early as possible each semester to help families plan ahead. If a scheduling conflict is known at the time of distribution, parents and students should notify the director promptly in writing. Students are expected to attend all scheduled classes, rehearsals, and events, arriving early and ready to begin at the designated start time. Should an unavoidable conflict arise, communication with the director is required well in advance of the event.

Eagles Fine Arts Code Of Conduct

Parent Code of Conduct:

ECCHO Dress Code

All ECCHO members are expected to dress modestly and appropriately for every ECCHO activity, including events, classes, programs, and sports. Clothing choices should reflect respect for oneself and others and align with ECCHO’s commitment to representing Christ well in all settings.

All costumes, uniforms, and performance attire must also meet these dress code standards.

Appearance

ECCHO Fine Arts students are representatives of ECCHO and are viewed as leaders both within the program and in the community. Students should maintain a neat and modest appearance, demonstrating cleanliness, good hygiene, and attire that adheres to the ECCHO Dress Code. Each student is expected to show kindness, respect, and a positive attitude toward others, reflecting ECCHO’s mission to shine His light in every setting — on stage, in class, and beyond.

Participation & Opportunities

ECCHO Fine Arts aims to provide a rewarding and growth-filled experience for all students. While every effort is made to involve each participant meaningfully, performance or feature time is not guaranteed. Directors carefully consider attitude, effort, skill, ability, and safety when assigning roles or responsibilities within each program. Students and parents are encouraged to remember that true success is measured by growth, teamwork, and character — not by the size or visibility of a role. Every contribution is valuable and essential to the program's success as a whole.

24-Hour Rule

If a concern arises, please do not approach a director immediately before or after an event. Instead, wait a full twenty-four hours before initiating contact — including emails or text messages. The 24-Hour Rule exists to encourage reflection, prayer, and thoughtful communication. Allowing time and space helps emotions settle so that any discussion can be handled calmly, respectfully, and with a focus on understanding and resolution.

Parental Support & Expectations

The success of ECCHO Fine Arts programs depends greatly on the support and involvement of parents. Families are encouraged to familiarize themselves with all program requirements, guidelines, and expectations. Parents play a vital role in each program’s success by contributing their time and talents through assigned service opportunities and volunteer needs.

Clear and consistent communication is essential. Both students and parents share responsibility for staying informed and maintaining contact with program directors. The primary means of communication are email and GroupMe, and families should ensure that their contact information on the ECCHO website is accurate and up to date.

Auditions & Applications

Certain ECCHO Fine Arts programs require an audition or application process each year. These opportunities allow students to explore the program that best fits their interests and give directors a chance to evaluate each candidate’s strengths, commitment, and ability to work as part of a team.

Students and parents are responsible for completing all steps of the audition or application process for their selected program. Specific requirements, dates, and procedures may vary by program and will be communicated by the respective directors.

Classes, Rehearsals & Practice Expectations

Program schedules will be provided by directors as early as possible each semester. If changes are necessary, updates will be communicated promptly. Students and parents are responsible for staying informed and keeping track of class, rehearsal, or practice times.

Email and GroupMe are the primary forms of communication for all ECCHO Fine Arts programs. Please ensure that your contact information on the ECCHO website is accurate and that you are receiving official ECCHO emails and messages.

Fees

Each ECCHO Fine Arts program is designed to provide students with meaningful, high-quality experiences that often include specialized materials, equipment, or events. Program fees help cover these expenses and are established annually by the program directors and approved by the ECCHO Board of Directors.

All payments must be made in full by the deadlines communicated for each individual program. Fees are held in ECCHO’s designated Fine Arts account, where the treasurer maintains detailed records of income and expenses.

Parents and students agree to pay all program fees on time as part of their commitment to participation. All funds collected go directly toward supporting Fine Arts program needs and opportunities for students.

Transportation

Transportation to and from ECCHO Fine Arts classes, rehearsals, and events is the responsibility of each student and their family. Students should arrive on time and be picked up promptly at the end of each activity.

Because many ECCHO programs use shared or public facilities, directors and staff are not permitted to leave students unattended after an event. Please plan accordingly to ensure the safety and supervision of all participants.

Facilities

All ECCHO Fine Arts programs are guests in the facilities we use, and it is our responsibility to treat those spaces with the utmost respect. Students and families should help maintain cleanliness and care for all areas, ensuring they are left in better condition than when we arrived.

Food and drinks are allowed only in designated areas as directed by program leadership. Any damage to property should be reported immediately to the director. Respect for our host facilities reflects our gratitude and commitment to excellence in everything we do.

Multi-Program Participation

Students are welcome to participate in more than one ECCHO Fine Arts program. However, families should be mindful of the time and commitment required for each activity. Clear and early communication with all program directors is essential so that scheduling conflicts can be avoided whenever possible.

Balancing multiple programs successfully requires responsibility, organization, and respect for each team’s needs. Students are expected to honor every commitment they make and communicate promptly if conflicts arise.

Fine Arts Lettering Policy

Earning a Fine Arts letter through ECCHO is both an honor and a privilege. Students who receive this recognition represent their faith, family, and ECCHO at all times—both within the program and in the community.

Because this distinction reflects a student’s character as much as their achievement, the awarding of a letter is based not only on participation and performance but also on integrity, effort, and attitude. Students who engage in serious disciplinary or behavioral misconduct may be deemed ineligible to receive a letter at the discretion of the ECCHO Board of Directors, even if all other criteria have been met.

Lettering is not guaranteed for all Fine Arts Programs.

Theater and Choir Lettering Requirements

To qualify for a Fine Arts letter in Theater and Choir, a student must:

Eagle Chefs Lettering Requirements

To qualify for a Fine Arts letter in Eagle Chefs, a student must:

Yearbook Lettering Requirements

To qualify for a Fine Arts letter in Yearbook, a student must:

General Fine Arts Lettering Framework

Purpose

The ECCHO Fine Arts Lettering Program exists to recognize students who demonstrate exceptional commitment, excellence, and Christ-like character throughout the year. Earning a Fine Arts letter is both an honor and a responsibility, reflecting a student’s dedication not only to their craft but also to their teammates and community.

General Lettering Requirements (All Programs)

To qualify for a Fine Arts letter in any ECCHO program, a student must:

Program-Specific Lettering Requirements

Theater and Choir

To earn a letter in Theater, a student must:

Varsity-Level Competencies:

 

ECCHO's Matthew 18 Guideline

“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses.”

— Matthew 18:15–16 (NLT)

Parenting and directing are both complex roles. By keeping lines of communication open between parents, students, and directors, many potential problems can be avoided. This begins with honest and respectful communication that reflects a desire for understanding and reconciliation.

ECCHO follows the Matthew 18 principle as our guide for resolving conflict. This passage provides clear biblical instructions for how believers should address concerns and restore relationships:

The goal of this process is always to maintain unity and protect relationships by resolving concerns at the lowest level and involving the fewest people possible. Gossip, divisive speech, and public criticism have no place in biblical conflict resolution. Instead, ECCHO encourages all members to seek peace, understanding, and grace in every interaction.

Discipline

ECCHO's 3-step discipline guideline

Incidents repeatedly occurring at different events will result in a more detailed review of the situation and/or loss of Eagles Fine Arts Program privileges.

Suspension

If a suspension is necessary, it will be decided upon after a meeting with the ECCHO board of directors and the program director.

 

 

ECCHO Theater Program

Mission: To be a Christ-centered group where students can explore their creativity while developing their talent and interest for theater: working to grow individual gifts, discipline, and self confidence while working together to develop a shared vision to provide quality entertainment for our audiences and a total theater experience for students.

Important Dates for 2026-2027:

-Summer Auditions: See ECCHO website calendar
-Program classes & rehearsals will be Fridays from 1:30-3:30pm in Waxahachie
-Field trips & fellowship opportunities TBD
-Storage unit clean out & organization TBD in Sept or Oct during class time
-Fall end of semester rehearsal & performance dates: Dec 11, 18, & 19
-Spring end of semester tech week & performance(s): April 19-24

Field trips and events outside of class time are important for building camaraderie and being able to fellowship with each other and should be prioritized when possible.

Grading guideline: Grades are determined based on participation as follows:

Attendance (present & ready to begin on time): 25%
Prepared with supplies (script, pencil, etc): 25%
Actively participates in class: 25%
Meets deadlines for memorization & blocking: 25%

Fall Semester Show: “It’s a Wonderful Life: Live Radio Play” performing at the Chautauqua Auditorium in Waxahachie Dec 19, 2026.

Spring Semester Show: “Fiddler on the Roof, Jr” performing April 23 & 24, 2027 at the Texas Theater in downtown Waxahachie with tech week beginning April 19.

Student Expectations: Students are expected to actively participate in classes and rehearsals, and to be team players: willing to learn and grow while helping and encouraging others. In theater there will be times a student needs to support their classmates by sitting quietly and attentively. Down times for those not on stage is not social time, and students should still be engaging with the class by observing the work being done. Students are welcome to bring a quiet activity (non-electronic) for such times. Be sure to review the ECCHO code of conduct in detail as this clearly presents expectations in all classes and programs, including theater.

Family Expectations: Theater parents are asked to take an active supporting role in our program. This includes serving at venues as hall/ door monitors, providing costumes and props for your student, contributing time and talents as you’re able with things like set design, helping deliver props to/ from storage, participating in fundraising and family fellowship opportunities when able, and other support that might be needed.

Student(s) and a parent, please sign below to indicate understanding of the program commitments outlined above:

_________________________________________ _________________________________________

_________________________________________ _________________________________________

 

Student’s Name(s):

_________________________________________ _________________________________________

List any known absences for fall and spring semester classes, rehearsals, tech weeks, and other events: __________________________________________________________________________

Attitude Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

I will not complain about the part I am given because I understand there are no small parts.

I agree to save the drama for the stage and not create unnecessary conflict as it affects the entire production.

I understand that it is NEVER appropriate to make negative remarks about cast members or to cast members, or to contact a director about a casting decision other than to request feedback, and will adhere to this professional guideline.

I will trust the directors, as they see the big picture and are doing what’s best for the show. I will not backstage direct. If I have a suggestion or problem, I will make an appointment outside of class/ rehearsal to talk to the director.

Behavior Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

I will not be on my cell phone or headphones during class or rehearsals.

I will adhere to the ECCHO dress code and will only wear clothes that are in dress code.

I will not eat in class, backstage, on the stage, or in dressing rooms.

I will not touch anyone else’s props, costumes, or personal belongings.

I will double check that I have all of my props and costumes where they need to be before, during, and after rehearsals and performances, and will treat them carefully.

If I need to leave a rehearsal or performance for any reason, I will inform a director ahead of time.

Preparation Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

I will know my lines and songs on time as it holds everyone else up if I am struggling with lines. (If we are blocking a scene, you are expected to know those lines when that scene is blocked.)

I will arrive having eaten a snack or a meal before rehearsal starts if needed. I will bring a water bottle for myself to each rehearsal.

I will arrive before warm ups start for every class, rehearsal, and performance. (Being on time is late, arrive at least 5 minutes before rehearsal starts and call time.)

I will bring my script to every rehearsal.

I will come prepared with water, script, pencil, and ECCHO appropriate clothes that I can move in for rehearsal.

When receiving notes, I will take notes whenever I receive a personal note from my directors.

I understand that I am expected to write all of my blocking in my script. I understand that the stage manager will periodically check script blocking.

Attendance Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

I understand that I am committing to be present and on time for every class and every rehearsal I am called to.

I understand that the last week before opening night will have more rehearsals and will clear my schedule to make sure I am at these important rehearsals.

I will notify my director by email if I am not able to be at rehearsal at least two weeks in advance. Exception will be made as needed for illness and emergencies.

I understand that if I am not keeping up with my responsibilities in my role(s), I may be replaced.

I understand that it is never acceptable to miss a dress or technical rehearsal.

I understand that the directors reserve the right to add extra rehearsals for the good of the show if necessary.

I understand that the only people allowed in the rehearsal are the cast and crew and parents who are assisting with the class and/ or show. As always, younger siblings are welcome to accompany parents when needed.

Performance Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

For performances, I will arrive prior to the scheduled call time to get in hair, makeup, and costume.

I will not eat in my costume.

I understand that unless otherwise stated food will not be provided and I will arrive having eaten a snack or a meal before a performance starts.

I will be waiting in the wings during the show and not wander around.

I will not “break the magic” of live performances by being visible to or interacting with audience members before or during a show. I will stay backstage when instructed, especially once venue doors have opened to the public and during intermission.

I will stay in character whenever I am on stage and will not break character.

Required Materials Agreement:

By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:

I understand I may have to provide my own costume in part or whole. I will keep up with all of my belongings including costume pieces, character shoes, and makeup.

I understand I will have to provide my own pair of black character shoes.

I understand that I will have to purchase my own makeup kit. I will make sure I put my name on this and not lose it or leave it in class or dressing rooms. (If you already have stage makeup, you can use the stage makeup that you already have.) Ben Nye is an affordable reputable source for a stage makeup kit.

Do you agree with all sections of this production contract? ____________________________

Student’s signed and printed name(s) and date: _________________________________________

Parent’s signed and printed name and date: _____________________________________________

 

Mission:

Eagle Chefs exists to teach students the art and joy of cooking while cultivating teamwork, creativity, and servant leadership. Through a Christ-centered culinary environment, students will learn to use their skills to bless others, pursue excellence, and honor God through our work and celebrate the delicious results of learning together.

Vision:

Eagle Chefs aims to develop confident, capable, and compassionate young cooks who understand that food is a powerful tool for service and connection. Our vision is to inspire students to work hard, think creatively, and reflect Christ’s light in the kitchen and beyond.

Program Overview:

Eagle Chefs is a hands-on culinary arts program designed for students ages 8 and up. Through guided instruction, cooperative cooking, and creative challenges, students learn practical kitchen skills, safe food handling, and the importance of hospitality. Each class emphasizes responsibility, teamwork, and excellence—skills that extend far beyond the kitchen.

Class Schedule & Attendance:

Eagle Chefs meets monthly for two-hour sessions. Students should arrive 10 minutes early and ready to begin promptly. Because teamwork is vital in culinary instruction, consistent attendance is essential.

Dress Code:

Students must maintain a neat and modest appearance in accordance with the ECCHO Dress Code. Additional program-specific expectations include:

Kitchen Safety & Conduct:

Safety is the top priority in the Eagle Chefs kitchen. Students must follow all safety instructions and demonstrate responsibility at all times.

Teamwork & Leadership

Eagle Chefs emphasizes teamwork, cooperation, and servant leadership. Students will rotate through various kitchen roles, learning communication and problem-solving skills along the way.

Each student is expected to:

Communication & Contact Information:

All official communication will be sent through email and GroupMe.

Parents and students are responsible for reading messages and updates regularly. Please ensure your contact information is current in your ECCHO profile.

For questions, absences, or emergencies, please contact:

Director: Niki Fay
Email: niki@eccho.us
Student Expectations:

As members of the ECCHO Eagle Chefs Culinary Arts Program, students are expected to demonstrate excellence, teamwork, and Christ-like character at all times.

Each Eagle Chef agrees to:

Failure to meet these expectations may result in a warning or temporary removal from class activities.

Parent Partnership Expectations:

The success of the Eagle Chefs Culinary Arts Program relies on strong cooperation between parents, students, and director.

Each parent agrees to:

Together, we partner to help students grow in skill, confidence, and faith as they learn to serve others through the culinary arts.

Student(s) and a parent please sign below to indicate understand the program commitments outlined above:

_________________________________________ _________________________________________

_________________________________________ _________________________________________

Earning the Eagle Chefs Apron or Annual Patch:

One of the highlights of the Eagle Chefs Culinary Arts Program is the opportunity for each student to earn their Chef Apron (for new chefs) or Chef Patch (for returning chefs). These awards represent dedication, skill, and perseverance throughout the year, and it is our goal for every student to have the chance to achieve them.

To earn an apron or patch, students must complete the following requirements:

These requirements are designed not only to build culinary skills but also to develop responsibility, creativity, teamwork, and perseverance.

Every Eagle Chef has the opportunity to rise to the challenge and proudly wear their Chef Apron or Patch as a symbol of their hard work, growth, and commitment at the end of the year.

 

Mission:

To be a Christ-centered group where students can explore their musical gifts while developing their talent and love for singing. We seek to cultivate individual gifts, discipline, confidence, and teamwork, working in harmony to create meaningful performances that encourage, inspire, and glorify Christ.

Eligibility:

The ECCHO Choir Program is open to ECCHO members ages 12-18.

Auditions:

All students interested in participating in the ECCHO Choir Program will complete an in-person audition. The audition process will be based partially on current vocal ability, as well as eagerness, willingness to learn, commitment, and dedication to the program. Students may select their own audition piece unless otherwise noted. Auditions help place students in roles or vocal parts that best fit both the student and the choir's overall needs.

Important Dates for 2026-2027:

Student Expectations:

Students are expected to actively participate in classes, rehearsals, and performances, and to be team players who are willing to learn, grow, and encourage others. Choir students should come prepared, attentive, and ready to sing. During times when another section is rehearsing, students are expected to listen quietly, follow directions, and stay engaged in the learning process. Students should demonstrate respect for directors and peers, good character, and a positive attitude.

Please be sure to review the ECCHO code of conduct and teen contract in detail, as these clearly present expectations for all classes and programs, including choir.

Program Fees:

Registration Fee: $40 (One-time fee - this is used to give a love offering to the church)
Semester Supply Fee: $50
Monthly Fee: $40

Family Expectations:

Choir families are asked to serve during rehearsals and performances as needed, including serving as hall/door monitors and providing event support. Each family is encouraged to participate in program fundraising events. Families are expected to assist in the planning and execution of fall and spring performances. This may include providing concert attire, helping with set-up and clean-up, assisting with programs or decorations, serving during rehearsals or performances, and other support as needed. Each family can expect to help with at least one of these additional duties.

Commitment Acknowledgment:

Student(s) and a parent, please sign below to indicate understanding of the program commitments outlined above:

__________________________________________ __________________________________________
Student Name                                                               Date

__________________________________________ __________________________________________
Parent Name                                                                  Date

 

 

ECCHO Eagles Yearbook is a Christ-centered group of creative ECCHO high school students collaborating to publish the ECCHO yearbook, while developing technical skills throughout the year-long development process.

Eagles Yearbook takes pride in publishing a high-quality yearbook. This completed yearbook—filled with pictures and stories of treasured memories made with ECCHO—is a blessing to our entire community.

Schedule:

Grades:

Program Size:

Monthly Fee:

Supply Fee:

Qualifications:

Admission Process & Timeline

Student’s Responsibilities

Parents’ Responsibilities

 

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