Member Handbook

Table of Contents

 

Overview & Membership

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not into your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him,
and He will make your path straight.” – Prov 3:5-6

This handbook serves as a collection of LVCHA’s policies, guidelines, and shared expectations. It is
designed to support a clear and consistent community experience for all participating families.

 

Mission & Vision

We believe that no one should homeschool alone, and the mission of LVCHA is to create a Christian community to meet that need. We strive for a community that facilitates enrichment opportunities through the collective effort of every enrolled family. As we do this, we each commit to lead our families, our students, and our community in a way that honors Christ.

Statement of Faith

As a Christian organization, LVCHA affirms a common, non-denominational Statement of Faith. Our intention is to focus on the core tenets that place Christ at the center. We acknowledge that there are areas of theological interpretation where believers may differ. In such matters, LVCHA seeks to promote unity, grace, and mutual respect among its members. We choose to unite around the foundational truths that define the body of Christ. The Holy Bible shall serve as the organization’s ultimate authority in matters of faith, conduct, and practice.

(II Timothy 3:16–17; II Peter 1:19–21; Revelation 22:18–19)

(Deuteronomy 6:4; Matthew 28:19; I Corinthians 8:6)

(Luke 1:34–35; John 1:1–5, 14; Hebrews 4:15)

(Jeremiah 17:9; Romans 3:23)

(Isaiah 64:6; John 3:16–17; Romans 6:23; I Corinthians 15:1–4)

(John 1:12; John 3:15–16; Ephesians 2:8–9; I John 5:13)

(Genesis 1:27; Genesis 2:24; Hebrews 13:4; I Thessalonians 4:3–5; I Corinthians 6:18–20)

(Matthew 28:19–20; Acts 1:8; II Corinthians 5:20)

 

Membership Eligibility

LVCHA is only open to families who are actively homeschooling at least one child who is age 5 or older as of September 1 of the current school year, as defined by Nevada state statute found here: NRS 388D.010-070.

LVCHA members must be traditionally homeschooling at least one school-aged child, a minimum age of 5 years old as of September 1st of the current school year. Traditional homeschooling, as defined by Nevada state law, is when a parent files a Notice of Intent to Homeschool and legally takes full responsibility to provide an education to their child. In other words, the parent fully directs/controls the education of their child, not the government (including any form of school receiving government funding). The parent is the teacher/principal who not only provides the education but also advances their child to the next grade level when their child is ready and issues the diploma when their child completes their K-12 education.

 

Family Membership

Each enrolled membership is for one family. A family includes legal children only. Legal children include biological, adopted, and foster children.

If you participate in cooperative learning or shared educational experiences, supporting other people’s children, those students can also enroll in LVCHA and should be enrolled by their own legal family.

Multi-family homes consist of multiple families and should be enrolled as such. If you feel your family situation does not fall within these situations, please reach out to the Board of Directors for clarity on enrolling as one or multiple families.

 

Program Structure

Age-Groups
LVCHA activities are organized by age groups:

Students can only participate in one age group for the year, and they remain in that age group throughout the school year of August 1 - July 31. Students must be the minimum age for an age group as of September 1st of the program year to participate in that group. If their birthday falls after September 1st, students cannot move up to the next age group until the following school year. This structure creates consistency within peer groups and supports planning for each age group.

 

Activities

Engagement activities are designed to supplement your homeschool experience. Your family is allowed to participate in an à la carte manner, picking and choosing what events fit you best. There are no mandatory attendance requirements for students. All LVCHA-hosted enrichment is for LVCHA families only. This includes events, activities, co-op classes, etc. A few public or combination events occur each year that are open to non-LVCHA guests. Beyond that, any exceptions should be brought to the Board of Directors for approval.

 

Calendar Year

LVCHA operates on an August 1- July 31 school year. The online calendar lists upcoming activities, allows for Sign Ups, and sends automatic reminders to registrants. All events must be approved by a board member before being scheduled on the calendar. Our calendar can be viewed on the website or in the app.

 

Communication

LVCHA communicates through a variety of channels to ensure that all families have access to information. All events are on our calendar. General communications can also be found on our website, app Conversations, private FB page, our GroupMe chats, and email. Members are responsible for staying informed by regularly checking these communication channels.

Within these channels, posts should be LVCHA-related and beneficial to our membership. Communication may be deleted if not in alignment with this purpose. If unsure what should be communicated or where, please reach out to our Board of Directors.

 

Sign Ups & Payments

Event Sign Ups

Many LVCHA events either have attendance caps and/or financial commitments. Because of this…

 

Co-op Classes

In order to register your child for classes, you must complete the Co-op Contract. Co-op classes are not a drop-off event, which means it is mandatory that a parent or guardian be on campus the entire time their child is taking classes and be available to help. This is true even if the parent or guardian is not volunteering during every class the student is present for.

Parents of students who are registered for classes are required to help in at least one class (teach or helper) and be available to help every hour their child is taking a class. Parent volunteers are needed as classroom helpers, teacher substitutes, nursery helpers, set-up & clean-up crews, and more. You will have the opportunity to sign up for volunteer positions at the same time you register your child for classes.

Classes will have age ranges, if your child is the correct age for a class as of the first day of classes, the system will allow them to register. If space permits and you have permission from the instructor, your child may be placed in a class for which they are not the correct age. Final approval rests with the Co-op Director.

You will only be able to register a child for one class per hour. If you cannot register your child in a class for which they are the correct age, please check to see if they are already scheduled for a class at that time.

Your child is not required to take classes for all three hours, but if your child is on campus during co-op hours, they must be enrolled in and attending a class. Space is not available for children to be on campus if they do not have a class. This is a safety precaution as well.

Class waitlists are not maintained.  If a class is full, please find another class for your child and monitor the class registration page for cancellations in your child's preferred class(es). If a spot opens, you may register your child.  

LVCHA co-op classes are open exclusively to LVCHA families/members.

 

Outside Events

Only LVCHA official or community homeschool events may go on our calendar. You may post community events in our communication channels, but private events should not be posted. LVCHA is not responsible for and does not assume liability for any public or community events that members choose to attend.

 

Finances

Event sign-up costs must be paid before the sign-up deadline for the event. Members who consistently miss these or other payments will be at risk of no longer being seen in good financial standing. Payments and attendance are important aspects of maintaining trust and credibility within the organization and partners in the city. Failure to maintain good financial standing may impact participation in events or future enrollment.

To be good stewards, any reimbursement expenses must be approved by a board member prior to the purchase, and the original receipt must be submitted within two weeks of the purchase date. Gift card purchases must include the gift card number and the name of the recipient. LVCHA does not reimburse for taxes. Documentation for our tax-exempt status is available.

When canceling anything that has a charge, even if you haven’t paid yet, please contact our Treasurer. This helps us efficiently address any pending costs and/or credits that show inaccurately on your account. This includes event signups, co-ops, and anything else with a cost associated.

 

Volunteerism

Volunteerism Approach

LCVHA is a 100% volunteer-led community, and many hands make light work. This approach keeps costs as low as possible, using membership funds for required insurance, background checks, website tools, other infrastructure needs, building rentals, key membership events, supplemental age-group event funds, and more. Developing a community built on volunteerism not only models service and generosity to ourstudents, but it also builds a community that is inclusive and accessible to a wide range of families.

 

Volunteerism Requirements: General

All members are asked to contribute through volunteerism or through financial support with the volunteer opt-out fee. Parents can volunteer at a one-time event, on a committee, or as a coach. Life can get hectic, which is why the option of supporting through an opt-out fee of $125 is available if a family is not able to volunteer their time. Parents who do not pay the opt-out fee are responsible for tracking/reporting their volunteer requirement, so they can share these details if/when asked.

 

Volunteerism Requirements: Co-op Classes

Co-op classes have a slightly different volunteer structure. This is because the resources it takes to run classes in a 100% volunteer led group requires each parent's involvement. If a family participates in co-op classes, they must help in some manner. Parents can teach a class, help in a class, support with admin or organizational needs, etc. There is no opt-out fee option.

 

Etiquette & Culture

Code of Conduct

We work to represent Christ in all we do, and we commit to behaving in a way that strives to honor the character of Christ. LVCHA students and adults are expected to:

Parents are responsible for the behavior and safety of their children at all LVCHA functions. LVCHA does not permit physical assault, unwanted touching, name-calling, bullying, or other harmful behavior. Parents of misbehaving students will be notified of their child's conduct, and the child may be subject to progressive accountability.

 

Dress Code

Members are expected to dress with modesty and discretion, maintaining a respectful environment that supports a diverse and welcoming community with varying values in this area.

 

Punctuality

Punctuality is an important way to show respect for one another’s time and for the flow of each activity. Families are asked to arrive on time and be prepared for all scheduled events, classes, and gatherings. Late arrivals can be disruptive and may impact instruction, event effectiveness, group dynamics, and even financial obligations to our vendors. When delays are unavoidable, please enter quietly and with minimal disruption. Consistent timeliness helps create a smooth, respectful, and positive experience for all participants.

 

Room and Facilities Use

LVCHA utilizes many of the facilities at Canyon Ridge Christian Church and other non-profit churches and organizations for our Co-op Classes and other events. Room reservations are required, and LVCHA makes a commitment to be a good steward of these resources. Because of this, rooms should be cleaned after use and left better than how we found them. This same respect should carry over to any facility used for an activity, including other churches, parks, or homes.

 

Safety

Background Checks

To do our due diligence to ensure that children are protected, LVCHA requires background checks for adults who meet any of the following situations:

Background checks are good for a period of three years and will be done at no extra cost to our families. Events held in a member's home must have a board member or a board-approved individual present, and all adults in the home must pass a background check. 
 

Parent Responsibility 

Parents or legal guardians are responsible for the supervision, behavior, and wellbeing of their children at all LVCHA activities unless a specific program explicitly designates assigned supervision.

As a volunteer-led homeschool community, LVCHA is not able to provide individualized or one-on-one support services. Parents or guardians are responsible for providing any additional support or supervision their child may need to participate safely and successfully in activities and events.

 

Weather & Event Cancellations

Event cancellations or changes will be communicated through official LVCHA channels (as listed previously). The Board of Directors reserves the right to cancel or modify events due to weather, safety concerns, or other unforeseen circumstances.

 

Transportation

Families are responsible for their own transportation to and from all events. LVCHA does not coordinate or assume responsibility for transportation arrangements.

 

Privacy & Personal Information Sharing

Guidelines exist to protect our members and ensure personal information is protected in a respectful manner. Our membership directory may not be used to send unsolicited emails, texts, or other marketing. Names and personal information of LVCHA members may not be shared with people outside LVCHA without express permission.

 

Photographs of Students & Media Release

LVCHA members are encouraged to capture pictures and videos during events. These can be loaded to private albums on our website and shared in our private communication channels. To protect students and ensure families’ preferences are respected, any image of a student (photograph, video, etc.) may not be used publicly without the permission of the student’s parent(s).

At LVCHA events, our photographers take photos for the yearbook. Parents also often take photos and load them to website albums or post them to the LVCHA private, members-only Facebook group. By being members of LVCHA, I give permission for photos and/or videos of myself and my child(ren) named on the registration form to be taken, and I give LVCHA permission to publish in our private Facebook group, print, yearbook, electronic, or video format the image or video of myself and my child(ren). I release all claims against LVCHA with respect to copyright ownership and publication, including any claim for compensation related to the use of the materials.

 

Medical & Emergency Situations

In the event of an injury or medical emergency, parents/guardians are responsible for their child’s care. If a parent/guardian is not immediately available, LVCHA leaders or volunteers may seek appropriate medical assistance. Participation in LVCHA activities indicates consent for emergency care if needed.

 

Incident Reporting

Any safety concerns, injuries, or inappropriate behavior should be promptly reported to the Board of Directors or a designated representative. This report should be made in writing and sent via email to the LVCHA Board President or Treasurer.

 

Community Life

Providing Feedback

LVCHA welcomes feedback from its members. Members can fill out the feedback form on our website, and the Board of Directors will regularly review this for potential adjustments and trending opportunities.

Constructive feedback is a valuable and healthy aspect of a strong community. Both giving and receiving feedback with honesty, humility, and respect allow us to grow together and better support one another.

 

Addressing Interpersonal Concerns

It is important to cultivate a Christ-centered community where families come together with diverse personalities, parenting styles, educational approaches, and perspectives. In such a community, differences, concerns, and occasional conflict are a natural and expected part of shared life.

When concerns or disagreements arise, they should be handled in a thoughtful, respectful, and Christ- centered manner. Scripture provides guidance for these moments, including the principles outlined in Matthew 18, Acts 6, and the examples of leadership and collaboration seen throughout the New Testament. Guidance can be found in the following Biblical examples:

Even strong, faithful communities experience tension and relational challenges. Biblical examples remind us that while individuals may not always agree or maintain close relationships, they can still work together to strengthen the community and advance the mission of Christ.

Our goal is not to avoid conflict, but to approach it in a way that promotes understanding, unity, and the continued growth of our community.

  1. Discern whether the concern should be addressed.
    • Is this a pattern, or could it be an isolated incident or difficult day?
    • Is this a matter of wrongdoing, misunderstanding, or simply a difference in personality or preference?
    • Is this something I can release, or is it something that would be healthier to address directly?
  2. Speak directly with the person involved.
    • In LVCHA, members and students talk to people and not about them.
    • Be thoughtful in your approach. Consider focusing on one concern and what you’d like to see differently, rather than raising multiple concerns at once.
    • Be clear with your communication by stating, “When _____ occurred, I felt _____. In the future, I am hoping we can ______.”
    • Be prepared to be patient, as many people need time to process. Consider ending the conversation with an invitation to continue the conversation if they process this over the next few days and have additional thoughts.
  3. Invite board member support if needed.
    • Board members will come as support, helping clarify concerns, facilitate respectful communication, and, when needed, discern appropriate next steps without taking unnecessary control of the situation.
    • These conversations can be difficult and uncomfortable, but this process honors Christ and strengthens our community when approached respectfully.
  4. Follow up and agree on next steps.
    • If continued conversation is needed, the same board member may continue to support the process, so communication remains clear and consistent.
    • Come ready to truly move forward, even if it is not in the way you initially hoped. Consider multiple options that you can be at peace with and be prayerful in your considerations. God often provides us with creative solutions.

After time has passed, prayerfully consider re-engagement. Seasons are normal and sometimes re- engagement is possible and wise. God is full of infinite wisdom, and he will guide your steps.

While differences and conflict are a normal part of a community, harmful, unsafe, or consistently disruptive behavior is not. These situations should be quickly brought to the attention of the Board of Directors.

 

Follow-up & Accountability

These are the commitments that the Board of Directors makes to our LVCHA community to support consistency, stability, and accountability. These processes may be adjusted based on the severity or nature of the situation.

When behavior that misaligns with our handbook is observed, the following process will be used. This was designed to model wisdom as well as examples shown to us in how New Testament leaders supported their growing community.

  1. Verbal reminder & expectation setting (1 board member)
    • “What we noticed was… What we would like to see in the future is…”
  2. Second verbal reminder with documented expectation setting (1 or more board members)
    • “I know we chatted a few weeks ago about ______, and yesterday I noticed that ______. It is really important that we see ______ begin to occur. This is an important part of our culture because _______.” (accompanied by follow-up text or email to support clear communication)
  3. Adjusted expectations put in place for a determined timeframe (2 or more board members)
    • “We’ve talked a couple of times about… We want to do our best to support your family, and we need you to partner with us in this as well. To support both of us in this partnership, we are going to ask that…”
    • “We’d ask that you, as the parent, attend events with your student for the next 3 months.”
    • “We will be giving you a point person to share your challenges with, so they can directly work with you for the next 3 months. We hope to provide and balance our support for both you and the larger community.”
    • “We are going to ask that you pause on co-ops for the next semester. This will give us time together to re-establish some trust through how you consistently attend other events. Our goal here is not to punish, but to support your ability to continue to participate in events, even if not co-ops, while balancing that with supporting our larger community as well.”
    • “We understand there are some challenges between you and _____.  We don’t expect that everyone in the group will be best of friends, but we do need to create a respectful and productive culture for all of our families to thrive in. To support that, we are going to give each of you a point person to provide you with some space while your families continue to engage in events and activities. During this time, we ask you each to give the other space and pause your interactions. We see this modeled in the New Testament several times, so let’s let time be our friend and find a healthy way through this together."
  4. “Parked” or terminated membership (2 or more board members)
    • “We’ve had a few conversations about the lack of payment on your account. Because of this, we are going to park your membership until your account is brought current.”
    • “We’ve had a few conversations about the trending no-shows to events, and several of these resulted in negative impacts for vendors that we made commitments to in our community. Because of this, we will not be extending an invitation for re-enrollment next year.”
    • “We have had a few conversations about your delivery of harsh feedback to our volunteers, and. we gave you specific outlets to share this in a more productive way. Because we haven’t seen a change in this behavior, we will not be extending an invitation for re-enrollment next year.”
  5. Reconciliation and/or reengagement
    • “Thank you for rebuilding trust and partnership with us. We have seen you demonstrate ______. We know that we all go through challenging seasons, and we are looking forward to this new season with you. Moving forward, we would like to _______ as we continue to watch you _______.”
    • “I wanted to follow-up with you and share how much I appreciate _________. We had a couple chats about _______, and since then I have really seen an intentional shift. This really helps support our community, so thank you!”

Disrespectful or escalated behavior may result in immediately being asked to leave the activity. If this occurs, the above process will still be used, even though an adjusted expectation was needed immediately.

 

Escalation

If at any time you would like to ask a board member for support in a situation or would like to ask for the support of an additional board member in an existing situation, this request can be made to any of our current board members. The Board of Directors believes in the wisdom of counsel.

These policies are only guidelines. Discretion and the severity of the offense will also guide our decisions. LVCHA reserves the right to suspend or remove a student and/or family for serious or violent misconduct without proceeding through the progression identified above when circumstances and the good of LVCHA so require.

Last Updated 5/10/2026

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