MYHELP General Policies
Parents are required to read and agree to the following policies. By signing the membership form, parents have agreed to abide by these policies.
Parent Responsibilities
- Parents are encouraged to become members of HSLDA (Home School Legal Defense Association). HSLDA does not give refunds for any reason. As a member of OCHEC, you will receive a discounted membership from HSLDA should you choose to join.
- We recommend that at least one parent attend the orientation meeting held in August.
- Although MYHELP offers classes through the Co-op, it is in no way responsible for the overall education of your children.
- Parents must read the MYHELP policies and be in agreement with them. They must understand that the Christian faith is the basis of this organization.
- Parents must understand that when their children attend MYHELP activities, the parents are required to attend with their children and are responsible for their safety and supervision.
- Parent responsibilities are as follows:
- Parents agree to diligently and consistently teach their student(s) a reasonable course of study and provide parental supervision during school hours. (GOOD IDEA: Do NOT leave younger school-age children alone before 2:30 or 3:00 p.m.)
- It is highly recommended that parents keep records for their own accountability and protection.
- Parents are responsible for providing and paying for their own curriculum.
- Parents should familiarize themselves with the Oklahoma state laws regarding homeschooling (See Appendix A)
- MY HELP utilizes YahooGroups for communication. It is a parent’s responsibility to periodically check the Yahoo board for up to date information.
Membership
- Membership shall be renewed annually in August for the term of August through July of the following year and will not be prorated.
- Each Membership shall consist of a family unit or individual. Groups (i.e. day cares, co-ops, etc.) may not join MYHELP.
- The Steering Team may refuse an applicant membership or terminate a membership for cause including, but not limited to, unpaid dues, ineligibility or misrepresentation. In any event, notice shall be given in writing to the applicant or member and the cause shall be stated in the notice. Within 30 (thirty) days of notice of rejection or termination, the applicant or member may, in writing, request a review of this determination. Such review shall be conducted in a closed meeting by a Board of Review composed of three (3) persons who are members in good standing and are selected as follows: (1) one person appointed by the Steering Team, (2) one person appointed by the applicant or member requesting review, (3) one person appointed by the previous two appointees. The decision of the Board of Review may be appealed within 14 days to the Steering Team. The Steering Team will respond in writing within 30 days. The determination of the Steering Team will be final.
Dues
- MYHELP annual dues will be determined by the Steering Team.
- Members in good standing are those whose annual dues are paid and who are compliant with the MYHELP policies and procedures.
Conduct
You and your children are expected to follow the guidelines set forth in the field trip section. Policies listed there apply to ALL MYHELP activities. Please read carefully to avoid possible problems.
MYHELP Field Trip Policies
Field trips can be a lot of fun and educational, too! It is our desire to plan and promote field trips that will enhance your homeschooling efforts.
Research indicates that children do learn from fun activities as well as remembering the information. But to make sure the children receive maximum benefit from the excursions, it is our responsibility as parents to identify what lessons would be made easier by firsthand experience and at what age level the children are able to comprehend what is being taught. The objectives should be clear:
What are the children expected to learn?
Why are they going?
What should they observe while there?
Please encourage their questions and speculations. Also, remember that we as teachers must follow-up on what things were seen, discussed, and studied.
PRE-PAY: Arrangements for field trips must be made no later than 1 week prior to the
event. Any fees for admission must be turned in to the field trip coordinator at this time
and are not refundable, as group rates are given based on the number of
participants. The field trip coordinator may use his/her discretion in allowing a waiting
list to adjust for last minute changes.
BE ON TIME: Out of consideration for others, please be on time. We allow enough time for slight delays only. WE WILL LEAVE AT THE DESIGNATED TIME.
CHECK IN: When you arrive at the designated area, please check in with the coordinator. Don’t make her look for you.
CANCELLATIONS: If you have signed up for a field trip and cannot make it, please call the coordinator ahead of time. This will save time and confusion. If you have paid for the field trip, refunds are NOT available, no exceptions!
ADULTS: We request that at least one parent attends with his/her child(ren). If for some reason you cannot attend with your child(ren), please let the coordinator know who will be taking your child(ren) and provide the temporary guardian with a dated, signed note granting them temporary care of your child(ren). It will be your responsibility to give a medical release to the adult responsible for your child(ren). Failure to do this could seriously endanger the life of your child in the event of an emergency. Please observe this procedure carefully. This policy applies to all MYHELP events including Co-op.
GUESTS: MYHELP does not permit non-members to participate in field trips or MYHELP co-op. One of the primary benefits of being in MYHELP is being able to participate in the activities.
CONDUCT:
It is important to remember that our conduct and the conduct of our children may be the only “glimpse” of Christianity that those around us see. Therefore, it is imperative that we are courteous and respectful of others. It is our duty as parents to train our children to be responsible. We must also remember that our own example will prove to be the best teaching method our children will learn from. You and your children are expected to follow the guidelines set forth below.
We ask that you read and be familiar with the following areas of conduct. If your students are old enough to understand, we ask that you explain our code of conduct with them.
In the event that someone does disregard these requests, he/she will be asked to leave and not return until proper apologies have been made. A second offense will be taken to the MYHELP Steering Team for action, which may result in being banned from further activities. The Team reserves the right to determine the weight of the offense and take action if deemed necessary on the first offense. This list is not inclusive and may be amended as need arises.
1. When you arrive, please try to keep your children with you at all times. Please, as tempting as it may seem, do not let your children climb on, over, or between any areas not designated as climbing areas! This is a common courtesy and respect for other’s property.
2. On field trips, please help your children learn to be attentive to the tour leader. If it is a particularly bad day for you or your children and they cannot be courteous to the speaker and others around them, please quietly dismiss yourselves from the tour. Sticking it out may not be beneficial for you, your child, or others.
3. On most field trips, babies, toddlers, and preschoolers are welcome. But, some tours may ask us not to bring small children because of insurance policies they have or other valid reasons. You will be notified if this is the case. Please do not try to bring a child anyway, you will be asked to leave.
4. We want to be a good witness for our Lord at all times, so we must watch our manners and our talk.
5. Have an attitude of compassion for the differences, needs, or disabilities of others. Parents, teach your children not to be cruel to people who are different from themselves. (Matthew 7:12, James 2:1-9, Galatians 5:22-23)
6. Act, speak, and dress in a manner worthy of the God who calls you. Unkind remarks, profanity, coarse jokes, lying, conversation involving the occult or sexual situations, pornography, or language unbecoming of a Christian is unacceptable and will not be permitted at MYHELP functions. You must also observe the dress code at all times. (1Thessalonians 2:12, Ephesians 4:1, 5:4)
7. Even though you may not have a problem with certain behavior or actions within your family, if you know something may be offensive to someone else, don’t do it. Respect the property and landscape of those we are visiting or renting from. Parents, teach your children about refraining from some things in a group setting that may be allowed at home. In this category we would include things as simple as climbing trees or fences on someone else’s property as well as language or joking that may offend. If personal property is damaged by a student, the parent will be financially and morally responsible for restoring the property to its original condition as soon as possible. (1 Corinthians 8:7-13, Philippians 2:3-4, Romans 12: 17b)
8. No student will be allowed to carry knives of any type to any MYHELP sponsored event.
9. Heelies (tennis shoes with wheels) will not be permitted on field trips or during co-op activities.
10. If a student is being disruptive, disrespectful, or causing distractions (not applicable for his/her age or *medical condition) and is asked to stop by an adult, but is not obedient, he/she will be sent to his/her parent. If the behavior continues in a pattern of disrespect, he/she will be asked to leave the class or event.
*We understand many children are diagnosed with special needs and take this
into consideration.
11. No fighting or bullying will be allowed. Students have the right to ask other students to stop, or leave them alone. If this is ignored, it is considered bullying. The MYHELP council members reserve the right to consider each incident separately. This is a zero (0) tolerance rule.
12. From time to time problems and miscommunications (scheduling, inadvertent omissions, missed e-mails, etc…) may arise. Please, show respect and patience with the coordinator. Remember that he or she is trying to manage the event and handle the problem at the same time. Rude or belligerent parents are subject to the same disciplinary action as described above.
MYHELP CO-OP POLICIES
Co-op classes are offered as a supplement to education already taking place at home. “Co-op” by definition means a co-operative, supportive, group effort. The best way to ensure a successful co-op class is to aid teachers with your time and talents.
TEACHERS
- Co-op classes will be available based on interest and teacher availability.
- All classes and teachers are subject to leadership approval. Teacher(s) must submit a complete syllabus for their class prior to approval, and should be willing to answer any questions that may arise.
- For legal reasons, teachers will be volunteer positions ONLY, not paid positions. If there is a demand for a teacher with specialized experience who charges a fee, arrangements will need to be made by interested parties outside the confines of MYHELP co-op and other facilities will need to be arranged.
- A teacher may cancel the class at their discretion within reason (illness, unavailability of a substitute, etc). If a cancellation is necessary, it is the teacher’s responsibility to notify all affected students.
FACILITIES AND PARKING LOTS
First Baptist of Mustang has graciously extended their support to our group by allowing us to use their facilities. Please show respect for their property and confine group activity to areas designated for co-op functions.
Treatment of facilities will be in accordance with their existing rules (where to sit, where to bring food, where to allow children, etc.).
· Parents must watch over their children not in class at all times.
· Be good stewards of the facilities and parking lot by leaving each in a better condition than it was found. (Put the chairs back where they belong, trash in trashcans, etc.) Each person needs to take a personal interest and responsibility for keeping the facility clean.
· MYHELP Co-op is not responsible for your personal belongings. Lost and found items will be donated to a needy charity at the end of the month.
· “Horseplay” is prohibited.
· Electronic equipment is not allowed (headphones, tape players, walkmans, electronic games, radios, etc.) on the premises.
· No skateboards, scooters, rollerblades, etc. on the premises.
· Loitering or hanging out in the facility or parking lot is not allowed.
· Advertising, surveys, or printed materials may not be distributed or left in any MYHELP Co-op facility or MYHELP Co-op sponsored activity, without prior permission.
· Inappropriate language, conversations, and boy-girl situations are not acceptable and will be subject to discipline.
SUPERVISION
The MYHELP Co-op is not a typical school situation. The parent is completely responsible for their child(ren) at Co-op.
· You are the parent of your child (children) and are responsible for their actions at all times, whether or not you are present while your child is in class.
· If a parent is unable to attend with a child, a note signed by the parent stating the date and the assigned guardian must be received to allow the child to participate.
· Parent(s) must be available on the premises at all times.
· While at the Co-op, all children must be either in class or in the playgroup area. Parents may not leave child(ren) unattended in playgroup.
· No student is allowed in the sanctuary, the church office or any other building without a parent.
· Students may be dropped off no earlier than 5 minutes before their first class and must be picked up no later than 5 minutes after their last class.
· MYHELP Co-op is not a drop-off service. Children attending without a parent must bring a signed note from their parent stating the assigned guardian and the date for which this is valid. Negligence may result in your family being dismissed from Co-op.
STUDENT DISCIPLINE POLICY
Student accountability begins here.
If an adult tells a student of a problem and he/she responds respectfully and corrects the problem, no further action will be taken. If the student is corrected by a teacher and he/she responds disrespectfully and/or does not correct the problem, or if the observant adult considers the offense serious, the following procedure will be implemented:
First Offense: The teacher will inform the parent, and a notation will be made in the student’s record.
** NOTE: Time-out may be used if a parent is not readily available. **
Second Offense: The student will be required to have a parent or adult guardian with him/her at all times. The student and parent or adult guardian must accept this discipline measure with a good attitude or be dismissed from the co-op without refund.
At the discretion of the MYHELP leaders, some offenses can result in immediate dismissal from the Co-op, with no refund of tuition fees. The MYHELP leaders reserve the right to make final decisions.
ILLNESS POLICY
It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the teacher if the child will be absent.
· Please do not bring children to Co-op who have had fever, diarrhea, vomiting, or other contagious conditions in the last 24 hours.
· If your child requires any medication, please keep it with you and administer it yourself. ** Any exceptions must be noted on the medical release form and approved by the Steering Team. **
· Teachers are not required to make up classes that your child may miss.
· Parents should request make up work from the teacher and work with the child at home to insure that they are caught up by the next class.
WEATHER POLICY
MYHELP will follow Mustang schools in regard to inclement weather.
TUITION POLICY
Registration fees are per child, per class, per semester. Registration fees are used to cover some of the costs of operating the Co-op.
· Tuition is due when registering for classes.
· Please register for classes carefully. Our teachers are making a commitment to teach your children for the full time frame and you need to make the same commitment.
· All Tuition fees you have paid are non-refundable.
· We have a very strict discipline policy. Parents must read, agree, and sign a policy statement.
GENERAL CO-OP POLICY
Homeschool parents and students are welcome to attend the MYHELP Co-op on the following basis:
1) Any student that attends MYHELP Co-op must have a parent attend and participate on each day the student attends, unless exempted by item 2 or 3 below.
2) A student may attend MYHELP Co-op without a participating parent only if he/she meets the following requirements:
a) a parent of the student has previously and substantially participated in MYHELP Co-op, and
b) another attending parent agrees to be responsible for the children of the absent parent until such time as the absent parent is able to return to Co-op, and
c) the absent parent must provide a permission slip and a signed medical release form for the children.
3) A student may also attend MYHELP Co-op without a participating parent if he/she
meets the following requirements:
a) the student must have a valid Oklahoma driver’s license, and
b) the student must obey the rules of MYHELP Co-op including the dress code and the rules of the individual classes, and
c) the student must provide a permission slip and signed medical release from a parent
4) The above rules regarding attendance without a parent apply equally to all field trips.
5) Notwithstanding the above policies, MYHELP reserves the right to deny admittance to any parent, child, or other person with or without cause.
6) New parents must wait one year before being given the opportunity to apply to teach a class. Upon the 1 year anniversary, parents still desiring to teach may submit a syllabus of the class in question with a complete description and personal testimony to MYHELP leadership for review.
7) Parents whose families are in good standing with MYHELP and who have been actively involved for one (1) year may submit their name to the council for a leadership position within the group. (Field trip coordinator, mom’s night coordinators, event coordinators, etc).
8) In order for a student to remain in any co-op class, he/she must complete 80% of the work given by the teacher.
9) No movies over a “G” rating may be shown without prior review and approval of the Steering Team.
10)No viewing of nudity will be tolerated. There are to be no nude art pieces, no nude science related material, no nude photos of any kind at any time.
MYHELP DRESS CODE
PURPOSE AND GENERAL GUIDELINES
MYHELP bases the dress code on the Bible. We look to 1 Timothy 2:9 “…dress modestly with decency and propriety…” As Christians, it is our desire for each of us to please the Lord and to be a good witness to others in both appearance and behavior. We believe there is a definite relationship between good dress habits, good work habits, and respectful behavior. We require members to dress modestly and attractively without drawing undue attention to themselves. Members should avoid extreme or questionable fads and fashions. We believe that proper dress, in association with continual effort for good attitude and behavior, are important elements of our wholesome Christian learning environment. We reserve the right to determine that which “attracts undue or excessive attention to the wearer. . . “ and is therefore, unacceptable.
All Members
Ø The dress code applies to all student activities (i.e. co-op classes, field trips, sporting events, banquets, etc).
Ø Picture or slogan shirts, blouses, etc., which show or speak of activities not in line with Christian principles are not permitted.
Ø No clothing, articles of clothing, jewelry or accessories related to a questionable secular group or gang will be permitted at any MYHELP activity.
Ø All clothes must fit properly. They should not be too tight or too baggy. Specifically, the trends of extremely oversized clothing or extremely tight clothing are not acceptable.
*Special Note to Parents
Please read the dress code carefully, and then encourage and guide your student(s) to wear acceptable dress at MYHELP functions. We appreciate your co-operation in this area. Parents of students in violation of the code will be notified and requested to bring appropriate attire on the day of the violation if there is not some other acceptable clothing to be worn.
Girls’ Dress Code
1. No part of the under garment should be visible (boxers, bra straps).
2. Halter / off-the-shoulder tops and dresses are not permitted.
3. Tops or dresses with shoulder straps less than 3 inches will need a shirt underneath or jacket or sweater worn over them at all times as part of the outfit.
4. Dresses or skirts should not be shorter than the wearer’s fingertips. If necessary, shorts should be worn under dresses or skirts for modesty.
5. Sleeveless blouses and dresses may be worn only if the armholes are not so large as to show undergarments.
6. The bodices of dresses, blouses and tops must be no lower than 4” below the collarbone.
7. Thin, see-thru white t-shirts must be considered “underwear” and should be worn as undergarments. They are not acceptable for outer garment wear unless a camisole or tank is worn underneath.
8. Hemlines with slits above the fingertip rule are not acceptable.
9. Blouses and tops must overlap the waistband of pants and skirts enough to allow for no midriff to show when arms are raised.
10. Shorts cannot be shorter than the wearer’s fingertips. Spandex shorts or bike shorts are not acceptable.
11. Leggings are acceptable only when the top that is worn meets the fingertip rule.
12. Girls should wear their hair in a clean and neat manner. Avoid extreme or questionable hairstyles (i.e. punk or distracting hairstyles).
13. Jewelry can be worn in moderation.
14. Make-up may be worn in moderation.
15. Safety pins in the ears are not acceptable.
16. Body piercing is not allowed.
17. Hair should be a natural color (not pink, purple, etc…).
18. No tattoos.
19. Hats are permitted.
20. No gothic or grunge clothing.
21. Appropriate footwear must be worn for P.E. No flip-flops.
22. Heelies (tennis shoes with wheels) will not be permitted at MYHELP activities (co-op, field trips, etc).
Boys’ Dress Code
- Boys should be neatly dressed at MYHELP events.
- Boys must wear jeans, pants or shorts of appropriate size, not too baggy or too tight.
- Shorts may not be shorter than the wearer’s fingertips.
- Dirty clothing is not acceptable. Jeans that are bought faded (stone washed) are acceptable.
- All pants must be worn at the waistline.
- Thin white t-shirts (undershirts) must be considered “underwear” and should be worn as undergarments. They are not acceptable for outer garment wear unless a tank is worn underneath.
- Tank tops with large armholes are not permitted.
- Any type of body piercing is not permitted.
- No choke chains, wallet chains, dog collars. No studs or spikes may be worn on belts or accessories.
- Hair should be clean and combed (not in eyes, etc.). Avoid extreme or questionable hairstyles (i.e. punk or distracting hairstyles).
- Hair should be a natural color (not pink, purple, etc…).
- Hats are permitted except in church building or classrooms.
- Safety pins should not be used as decorations or used in excess on clothing.
- Boys may not wear nail polish.
- No tattoos.
- No gothic or grunge clothing.
- Appropriate footwear must be worn for P.E. No flip-flops.
- Heelies (tennis shoes with wheels) will not be permitted at MYHELP activities (co-op, field trips, etc).
This dress code is not all-inclusive
Any situation not specifically covered herein will be resolved by the administration in
accordance with the general intent and purpose of the code.
Dress code violations
Parents will be notified to bring appropriate clothing if no clothing can be provided.
After two dress code violations, a suspension will be issued. The student and parent will be required to meet with the council to determine if the student will be allowed to continue participating in MYHELP functions.
The Peacemaker’s Pledge
As people reconciled to God by the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, we believe that we are called to respond to conflict in a way that is remarkably different from the way the world deals with conflict.1 We also believe that conflict provides opportunities to glorify God, serve other people, and grow to be like Christ.2 Therefore, in response to God’s love and in reliance on His grace, we commit ourselves to respond to conflict according to the I following principles.
GLORIFY GOD * Instead of focusing on our own desires or dwelling on what others may do, we seek to please and honor God-by depending on His wisdom, power, and love; by faithfully obeying His commands; and by seeking to maintain a loving, merciful, and forgiving attitude.3
GET THE LOG OUT OF YOUR OWN EYE * Instead of attacking others or dwelling on their wrongs, we will take responsibility for our own contribution to conflicts–confessing our sins, asking God to help us change any attitudes and habits that lead to conflict, and seeking to repair any harm we have caused.4
GO AND SHOW YOUR BROTHER HIS FAULT * Instead of pretending that conflict doesn’t exist or talking about others behind their backs, we will choose to overlook minor offenses, or we will talk directly and graciously with those whose offenses seem too serious to overlook. When a conflict with another Christian cannot be resolved in private, we will ask others in the body of Christ to help us settle the matter in a biblical manner .5
GO AND BE RECONCILED * Instead of accepting premature compromise or allowing relationships to wither, we will actively pursue genuine peace and reconciliation-forgiving others as God, for Christ’s sake, has forgiven us, and seeking just and mutually beneficial solutions to our differences.6
By God’s grace, we will apply these principles as a matter of stewardship, realizing that conflict is an assignment, not an accident. We will remember that success, in God’s eyes, is not a matter of specific results but of faithful, dependent obedience. And we will pray that our service as peacemakers brings praise to our Lord and leads others to know his infinite love.7
1 Luke 27-36; Gal. 5:19-26; Matt. 5:9
2 II Cor. 10:31-11:1; Rom. 8:28-29; James 1:2-4
3 I Cor. 10:31; James 4:1-3; Psalm 37:1-6; Phil. 4:2-9; Col. 3:1-4; I Peter 2:12; John 14:15; James 3:17-18; Rom. 12:17-21; Mark 11:25
4 Matt. 7:3-5; I John 1:8-9; Proverbs 28:13; Col. 3:5-14; Luke 19:8
5 Matt. 18:15-20; James 5:9; Proverbs 19:11; Gal. 6:1-2; Eph. 4:29; II Tim. 2:24-26; I Cor. 6:1-8
6 Matt. 5:23-24; Matt 6:12; Eph. 4:1-3,32; Matt. 7:12; Phil. 2:3-4
7 Matt. 25:14-21; I Peter 2:19,4:19; Rom. 12:18; John 13:34-35
Conflict Resolution Checklist
-Seek to please and honor God
-by depending on His wisdom, power, and love.
-by faithfully obeying His commands.
-by seeking to maintain a loving, merciful, and forgiving attitude.
-Take responsibility for your own contribution to the conflict
-by confessing your own sin.
-by asking God to help you change any attitudes and habits that lead to conflict.
-by seeking to repair any harm you have caused.
-Overlook minor offenses and talk directly and graciously with those whose offenses seem too serious to overlook.
-Attempt to resolve this in private, remembering these principles:
-Deal gently, not critically.
-No condemning, NONE!
-No commanding (power-play).
-No condescending (making fun, belittling, discounting).
-No diversions (deal only with the present conflict, no other issues).
-Respect the person and his possessions (things he owns).
-Trust the other person (write in changes, be reasonable).
-If not resolved in private, ask others to help you settle the matter in a biblical manner.
-Actively pursue peace and reconciliation
-by forgiving others as God has forgiven you.
-by seeking just and mutually beneficial solutions to your differences.
Appendix A
Oklahoma’s State Law
This analysis does not constitute the giving of legal advice. Blue text portions represent actual wording of Oklahoma statutes. Italicized notes represent OCHEC’s comments. All other portions reprinted with permission of Home School Legal Defense Association.
Updated 3/02
Oklahoma Constitution, Section 4, Article 13
Oklahoma is the only state with a constitutional provision guaranteeing the right to homeschool. Section 4, Art. 13 of the Constitution of Oklahoma guarantees the homeschool exemption by stating that the legislature “shall” provide for the “compulsory attendance at some public or other school, unless other means of education are provided of all children in the State who are sound in mind and body, between the ages of eight and sixteen, for at least three months each year.”
[Note: This is original wording from the Oklahoma Constitution. See Compulsory Attendance Ages and Required Days of Instruction.]
It seems quite evident that the “other means of education” language is directly applicable to homeschooling since it was added for the specific purpose of protecting the right of parents to choose homeschooling. In 1907, during the Oklahoma Constitutional Convention, one of the delegates, Mr. Buchanan, proposed that the phrase “unless other means of education be provided” be added to Article 13, Section 4. Favorably responding to Mr. Buchanan’s proposal, another delegate, Mr. Baker stated,
“I think Mr. Buchanan has suggested a solution. A man’s own experience sometimes will teach him. I have two little fellows that are not attending a public school because it is too far for them to walk and their mother makes them study four hours a day.”
As a result of this discussion on homeschooling, the “other means of education” language was added to Article 13, Section 4.
Attorney General Opinion No. 73-129
According to Attorney General Opinion No. 73-129 (Feb. 13, 1973) Oklahoma law recognizes the right of parents to carry out this responsibility through homeschooling “so long as the private instruction is supplied in good faith and equivalent in fact to that afforded by the State.” Equivalency has never been defined by any court or Attorney General opinion, nor is equivalency mandated by law. However, it seems clear that the point of the Attorney General opinion is that homeschooling must not be used as a subterfuge for truancy.
Attorney General Opinion No. 73-129
The Oklahoma Compulsory Attendance Statute does not require that a private school be accredited by the State Department of Education or that a private tutor hold an Oklahoma teaching certificate so long as the private instruction is supplied in good faith and is equivalent in fact to that afforded by the State. While a board of education has discretion to classify students as it deems appropriate and to require examinations relative thereto [for readmission to the public schools – ed.], credit for private instruction may not be denied solely because the private instructor did not hold an Oklahoma teaching certificate. A board of education is not required to furnish textbooks or other materials to a child residing in the district not attending a district-operated school. (Emphasis added)
[Note: While the Attorney General’s opinion is not law, OCHEC encourages home educators to honor it since OCHEC promotes obeying not only the letter of the law but the spirit as well.]
Compulsory Attendance Ages
”over the age of five (5) years and under the age of eighteen (18) years.” Oklahoma Statutes Annotated Title 70, § 10-105(A)-(B).
70 O.S. 1997, §10-105
It shall be unlawful for a parent, guardian, or other person having custody of a child who is over the age of five (5) years and under the age of eighteen (18) years, to neglect or refuse to cause or compel such child to attend and comply with the rules of some public, private or other school, unless other means of education are provided for the full term the schools of the district are in session or the child is excused as provided in this section…. It shall be unlawful for any child who is over the age of sixteen (16) years and under the age of eighteen (18) years, and who has not finished four (4) years of high school work, to neglect or refuse to attend and comply with the rules of some public, private or other school, or receive an education by other means for the full term the schools of the district are in session. (Emphasis added)
Required Days of Instruction
[Note: The following two statutes are public school requirements which MAY apply to home education based on equivalency.]
180 days. Okla. Stat. Ann. Tit. 70, § 1-110.
70 O.S. 1997, §1-110
”A school month shall consist of twenty (20) school days during which school is actually taught or school activities performed. Provided, that holidays, elections, days devoted to professional meetings and other days when school is closed may be included in the number of days required for a regular school month, but no holiday or other occasion when school is not in session shall be included in the one hundred eighty (180) days required to be taught, except not to exceed five (5) days may be used for attendance of professional meetings (Emphasis added)
70 O.S. 1997, §1-1ll
”A school day for any group of pupils shall consist of not less than six (6) hours devoted to school activities, except that a school day for nursery, early childhood education, kindergarten, first grade, extended day program, and alternative education programs shall be as otherwise defined by law or as defined by the State Board of Education. … Beginning with the 1993-94 school year, the school day for kindergarten may consist of six (6) hours devoted to school activities.”
[Note: One-on-one tutoring may not require six hours per day, especially for younger students.]
Required Subjects
[Note: The following statute is a public school requirement which MAY apply to home education based on equivalency.]
Reading, writing, math, science, citizenship, United States constitution, health, safety, physical education, conservation. Okla. Stat. Ann. Tit. 70, 11-103.
70 O.S. 1997, §11-103
”A. Courses of instruction approved by the State Board of Education for use in school years prior to 1993-94 shall be those courses that are necessary to ensure: 1. The teaching of the necessary basic skills of learning and communication, including reading, English, writing, the use of numbers and science; and 2. The teaching of citizenship in the United States, in the State of Oklahoma, and in other countries, through the study of the United States Constitution, the amendments thereto, and the ideals, history, and government of the United States, other countries of the world, and the State of Oklahoma and through the study of the principles of democracy as they apply in the lives of citizens. In study of the United States Constitution, a written copy of the document itself shall be utilized….
B. Courses approved by the State Board of Education for instruction of pupils in the public schools of the state for use in school years prior to 1993-94 may include courses that are approved by a local board of education and are necessary to ensure: 1. The teaching of health; 2. The teaching of safety; 3. The teaching of physical education; 4. The teaching of the conservation of natural resources; 5. The teaching of vocational education; and 6. The teaching of… other aspects of human living and citizenship…”
[Note: For college-bound students, refer to the Oklahoma State Board of Education Regulations for Graduation listed at www.sde.state.ok.us or required courses at the college of your choice.]
Teacher Qualifications and Standardized Tests
Oklahoma law does not require parents to use certified teachers or state-approved curricula, initiate contact with, register with or seek approval from state or local officials, test their students or permit public school officials to visit or inspect homes. Homeschools are not regulated, since the framers of the Oklahoma Constitution specifically intended “other means of education” to include homeschooling and gave the state no authority to regulate.
Case Laws Allowing for Home Schools
In Snyder v. Asbery (No. 78,045, Oklahoma Court of Appeals, Div. 2, May 18, 1993), the Oklahoma Court of Appeals returned two children to the custody of their homeschooling father, reversing a lower court decision. On page 4 of the decision, the Court agreed with the homeschooling father, stating “…the State Department of Education has no jurisdiction in homeschooling.” See 70 O.S.1991 § 3-104 … Okla. Const. art. 13, § 5….”
In the case, Sheppard v. Oklahoma, 306 P.2d 346 (Okla. Crim. App. 1957), the court held that requirements of school attendance laws could be met even though children were not attending public or private school. The court said “education may be furnished without attendance at any school.” Sheppard, at 353. The court also emphasized “it was incumbent on the state to offer proof” that “no other means of education was provided.” Sheppard, at 356. In other words, the state failed to carry its burden of proof since it failed to prove that “other means of education” were not being provided. The court indicated further that, if the state finds other means of education are being provided, then they must prove that the means of education is not “adequate and comparable” to instruction in public schools. Id. At 356. The court also suggested the state could inquire about the curriculum in two areas: period of instruction and subjects taught. Id.
The Oklahoma Supreme Court in School Brd. Dist. No. 18 v. Thompson, 103 P. 578, 24 Okla. 1 (1909), upheld parental rights against the public school’s authority. “Under our form of government … the home is considered the key stone of the governmental structure. In this empire, parents rule supreme during the minority of their children … they may … withdraw them entirely from public schools and send them to private schools, or provide for them other means of education.”
Appendix B
IN CASE YOU ARE CONTACTED BY STATE OFFICIALS
Many legal problems can be avoided by being accurately informed about the state laws and by using respect in dealing with school or DHS officials. Here are some suggestions from HSLDA should you ever find Social Services at your door.
The Social Worker At Your Door: 10 Helpful Hints
By Christopher J. Klicka, Senior Counsel for the
Home School Legal Defense Association
April 19, 2006
More and more frequently, homeschoolers are turned in on child abuse hotlines to social service agencies. Families who do not like homeschoolers can make an anonymous phone call to the child abuse hotline and fabricate abuse stories about homeschoolers. The social worker then has an obligation to investigate. Each state has a different policy for social workers, but generally they want to come into the family's home and speak with the children separately. To allow either of these to occur involves great risk to the family.
The homeschool parent, however, should be very cautious when an individual identifies himself as a social worker. In fact, there are several tips that a family should follow:
- Always get the business card of the social worker. This way, when you call the Home School Legal Defense Association, the HSLDA attorney will be able to contact the social worker on your behalf. If the situation is hostile, immediately call HSLDA and hand the phone out the door so an HSLDA lawyer can talk to the social worker. We have a 24 hour emergency number. (540)338-5600.
- Find out the allegations. Do not fall for the frequently used tactic of the social worker who would tell the unsuspecting victim that they can only give you the allegations after they have come into your home and spoken to your child separately.
- You do not have to let the social worker in your house without a warrant or court order, unless there is a true emergency in your home. All the cases that you have heard about where children are snatched from the home usually involve families waiving their Fourth Amendment right to be free from such searches and seizures by agreeing to allow the social worker to come inside the home. A warrant requires a probable cause which does not include an anonymous tip or a mere suspicion. This is guaranteed under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution as interpreted by the courts.
- It is difficult not to let the social worker talk to your children alone without a court order. On nearly every other incident, HSLDA has been able to keep the social worker away from the children. On a few occasions, social workers have been allowed to talk with children, particularly where severe allegations are involved. In these instances, an attorney, chosen by the parent, has been present. At other times, HSLDA had children stand by the door and greet the social worker, but not be subject to any questioning. Nevertheless, federal law requires all social workers to tell you the specific allegations at the "initial time of contact."
- Tell the official that you will call back after you speak with your attorney. Call your attorney or HSLDA, if you are a member. In nearly 30 percent of the cases, the problem is solved immediately that day by HSLDA lawyers. Approximately 65 percent of the situations are resolved within the next two weeks. Of the remaining 5 percent, 1 percent goes to court and is handled by HSLDA. The 4 percent that cannot be resolved do not involve home schooling and are referred to other attorneys since they are not covered by HSLDA.
- Ignore intimidations. Normally, social workers are trained to bluff. They will routinely threaten to acquire a court order, knowing full well that there is no evidence on which to secure an order. In 99 percent of the contacts that HSLDA handles, the threats turn out to be bluffs. However, it is always important to secure an attorney or HSLDA in these matters, since there are occasions where social workers are able to obtain a court order with flimsy evidence.
- Offer to give the officials the following supporting evidence:
- A statement from your doctor, after he has examined your children, if the allegations involve some type of physical abuse;
- References from individuals who can vouch for your being good parents;
- Evidence of the legality of your homeschool program. If your homeschool is an issue, HSLDA attorneys routinely convince social workers of this aspect of an investigation.
- Bring a tape recorder and/or witnesses to any subsequent meeting. Often times HSLDA will arrange a meeting between the social worker and the parents after preparing the parents on what to discuss and what not to discuss. The discussion at the meeting should be limited to the specific allegations and you should avoid telling them about past events beyond what they know. Usually, anonymous tips are all they have to go on, which is not sufficient to take someone to court. What you give them can and will be used against you.
- Inform your church, and put the investigation on your prayer chain. Over and over again, HSLDA has seen God deliver homeschoolers from this scary scenario.
- Avoid potential situations which could lead to a child welfare investigation.
- Do public relations with your immediate neighbors and acquaintances regarding the legality and success of homeschooling.
- Do not spank children in public.
- Do not spank someone else's child unless they are close Christian friends.
- Avoid leaving young children at home alone, or in an automobile.
In order for a social worker to get a warrant to come and enter a home and interview children separately, he is normally required, by both statute and the U.S. Constitution, to prove that there is some cause. This is a term that is synonymous with the term probable cause. Probable cause or cause shown is reliable evidence which must be corroborated by other evidence if the tip is anonymous. In other words, an anonymous tip alone and mere suspicion is not enough for a social worker to obtain a warrant.
There have been some homeschooled families who have been faced with a warrant even though there was not probable cause. HSLDA has been able to overturn these in court so that the order to enter the home was never carried out. Home School Legal Defense Association is committed to guarantee legal defense for every homeschooler who is being investigated by social workers, provided the allegations involve homeschooling. In instances when the allegations have nothing to do with homeschooling, HSLDA will routinely counsel most families on how to meet with the social worker and will talk to the social worker to try to resolve the situation. If it cannot be resolved, which it normally can be in most instances by HSLDA's involvement, the family is responsible for hiring their own attorney.
HSLDA is beginning to work with states to reform the child welfare laws to guarantee more freedom for parents and better protection for their parental rights. HSLDA will be sending out Alerts to its members in various states where such legislation is drafted and submitted as a bill.
For further information on how to deal with social workers, HSLDA recommends The Right Choice: The Incredible Failure of Public Education and the Rising Hope of Home Schooling, which was written with the intention of informing home-school parents of their rights in order to prevent them from becoming a statistic. Federal statistics have shown that up to 60 percent of children removed from homes, upon later review, should never have been removed. The child welfare system is out of control and we need to be prepared.
© Site Copyright 1996-2006 Home School Legal Defense Association
P.O. Box 3000 · Purcellville, VA 20134-9000 · Phone: (540) 338-5600 · Fax: (540) 338-2733 · E-mail: info@hslda.org
Should you be contacted, follow these steps:
a. Politely and confidently let them know that your children are in attendance at a
legally established homeschool pursuant to the Oklahoma Constitution, Article 13, Section 4, and Oklahoma Statues, Title 70, Section 10-105(A).
b. Calmly and confidently ask them to submit any questions in writing
c. Speak to the individual politely from the door; do no allow them in unless a search warrant is present.
d. Call HSLDA (540)338-5600 and inform them you have been contacted.
e. If the worker at the door insists on coming in, show them this information:
f. Document this contact and any further contacts.
This summary is not intended to nor does it constitute the giving of legal advice.