Spalding Area Christian Homeschoolers (SACH)
Bylaws
Article I - Name
The name of the organization shall be Spalding
Area Christian Homeschoolers
(SACH).
Article II -
Overview
SACH is a Conservative Evangelical Christian homeschool
support group of home educating families dedicated to observing the
Biblical commands of Deuteronomy 6:4-9: Proverbs 22:6, and Ephesians
6:4. We encourage all members to be involved in a local Bible
believing church of their own choosing. SACH is a very active group
that offers many choices and events that provide wonderful
opportunities for the children to increase their knowledge and enjoy
social interaction. SACH is based in Spalding County, Ga., but we
also serve the surrounding counties of: Fayette, Henry, Pike, Lamar,
Butts, Upson, Coweta and Monroe.
Article III - SACH Mission
Statement
1. To represent the homeschool community in a manner
that honors Jesus Christ.
2. To provide SACH Members with social
interaction through family social events, educational field trips,
and group activities for our children.
3. Providing encouragement
and support to Christian homeschooling families within the Spalding
County area.
4. To provide an atmosphere for exchange of teaching
techniques and curriculum information.
5. To keep the group
informed of any pertinent homeschool current events such as
seminars, conferences, and legal issues.
6. To protect the future
freedoms of home education in Georgia and in our nation, by
promoting public awareness of home education by interacting with
elected representatives, public officials, and the general
public.
Article IV - SACH Statement of
Faith
We
believe:
1. The Bible to be the inspired, infallible, divinely
preserved Word of God, the supreme and final authority for all faith
and life. (2 Timothy 3:16).
2. God is one Being who eternally
exists as three Persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit; all Persons
being equal in power and glory (Matthew 28: 19, 2 Corinthians
13:14).
3. Jesus Christ is fully God and fully man (John 1:1,
14), born of a virgin (Matthew 1:18, 22-23) and sinless in His life
(Hebrews 4:15). He died on the cross as a substitute for
sinful men (2 Corinthians 5:21, Isaiah 53: 5-6). He rose
bodily from the grave (John 20: 1-9, 24-31, Acts 2:24) and now
reigns with the Father (Acts 7:55, Hebrews 10:12). He will
return visibly and personally to the earth in both salvation and
judgment (Titus 2:13, Hebrews 9:28, Matthew 24:30).
4. That man
was created in the image of God, but fell into sin and is therefore
lost, and only those who put their faith in Jesus Christ alone, not
trusting in any personal works whatsoever, can be Saved/Born Again.
(Ephesians 2:8-9)
5. That salvation is the free gift of God
brought to the sinner by grace and received by personal faith in the
Lord Jesus Christ, Whose substitutionary death on the cross paid the
penalty for man's sin. (John 3: 3 - 7, Acts 4: 12)
6. That the
ministry of the Holy Spirit is to convict mankind; indwell, guide,
instruct, and empower the believer for godly living and
service.
7. That God created man and woman after His own Image,
and that God has ordained marriage, consisting of one man and one
woman, to be the foundation of the family and to be the only
legitimate and Godly expression of sexuality. We reject homosexual
marriages and homosexual orientation, because it is contrary to
Scripture and the intentions of God in creation (Romans 1: 18-32,
Leviticus 20: 13). We believe that such relationships are
destructive to children and the very idea of “family”. In
addition, we reject co-habitational relationships outside of
marriage as being equally in violation of God’s laws and incapable
of providing the long-term nurture and instruction needed by
children and commanded by God (Proverbs 1: 8-9, 2: 1-11, Colossians
3:21, Ephesians 6:4). In view of this, no homosexual or merely
co-habitating “parents” are eligible for membership (Hebrews 13: 4,
1 Corinthians 5: 11, 6: 9-10).
8. In the spiritual unity of
believers through our common faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and
that individual doctrinal differences which may exist, outside of
the aforementioned (Article IV Sections 1‑7), should not hinder the
unity of Christian home educators.
We believe that the education of one’s children is
an inalienable right given by God, for which the government can
neither create, destroy, or alter. Parents may delegate to
others certain aspects of their children’s education, but
ultimately, all education must be under the control and supervision
of parents. Therefore, we believe the ultimate responsibility
for the education of children belongs to parents (Deuteronomy 4: 9,
6: 4-9, 6: 20-25, Proverbs 4:4).
As Christians, we believe that all education should have
as it’s beginning the fear of God and as its end, the glory of God
(Proverbs 1:7, Romans 11: 33-36). We specifically reject as
anti-Christian the following: secular humanism, the general theory
of evolution, one-world government, government-mandated sex
education, government-mandated parenting courses, radical feminist
ideology, abortion, New-Age philosophy, and the so-called
“gay-rights” agenda.
Article V - SACH Decorum/ Rules for
conduct
Field Trips, Social Events and other Extra Curricular
Activities provide a wonderful opportunity for our children to
increase their knowledge and enjoy social interaction. It is
important that we present ourselves in a manner that is a positive
reflection on home education. Many who observe us may never realize
the total life commitment our families have made in training up our
children. We will simply be judged on our behavior and social savvy.
We have a responsibility to our Lord to represent his name as the
Spalding Area CHRISTIAN Homeschoolers. Also, whether we like it or
not, we are advertisements for the Homeschool
movement.
Therefore, as a group, we must strive to adhere to the
following guidelines for SACH social events, field trips, meetings,
and ALL other SACH sponsored activities.
1. Please R.S.V.P by the appropriate date set for the
SACH Event listed. If you can not attend an activity after you have
made reservations or R.S.V.P.’d, contact the person in charge of the
event as far in advance as possible, (contact the Social Event/
Field trip Coordinator, unless otherwise noted). If applicable,
money may not be refunded after the reservation deadline.
2. Be
respectful to tour guides, speakers, etc. Do not interrupt, save
questions for the appropriate time and speak in an audible tone.
3. Keep your children under control and within sight at all
times. Even though another person may be in charge of the event, you
are always responsible for your child’s behavior and personal
safety. Be positive and pleasant when disciplining children.
4.
Respect restrictions placed on the group by sponsoring facility
concerning the handling of objects/ equipment, staying in designated
eating or drinking areas.
5. Encourage a learning atmosphere.
6. Promote a high standard of home education both within
SACH and the community at large
7. No smoking or alcoholic
beverages at any SACH gathering or sponsored event.
8. Express
appreciation for the activity to the tour guide, speaker etc. in an
appropriate manner. Thank you notes from the children are a great
teaching opportunity.
9. Parents are solely responsible for
their safety and that of their children when attending SACH events.
10. Children are expected to be obedient to the adult in charge
of the event.
11. Promote unity within the group through words
and conduct.
12. Members shall not physically or verbally insult
other members. No gossiping or backbiting is permitted. Members are
expected to show good character.
13. Keep the membership
listings (e.g. Directory and web- site information) confidential;
they are for members only.
14. Cheerfully help in all
preparation and cleanup in group activities.
15. Be friendly to
a new member or guest. Welcome them and help them to feel accepted.
16. All SACH social events (skate days, bowling days, parties,
etc.), field trips, teen events, and sports are for SACH members
only.
17. Obey all Ga. Laws, especially concerning
Homeschooling.
18. Member families must obtain prior approval
from the current SACH Leadership Team before using the name
“Spalding Area Christian Homeschoolers” or “SACH”
in any manner.
Behavior: Our expectation is that everyone should
be tolerant and tactful in their dealings with each other, no name
calling, bullying etc., and be aware of and responsive to the needs
of others in the group as much as possible. Members are asked to use
their best behavior and dress appropriately for all group
activities. This includes, but is not limited to field trips, social
events, sponsored classes, and meetings.
Article VI - SACH Group
Structure
The Leadership Team evaluates the framework and policies
annually, appealing to the Lord for His direction and wisdom. The
general framework may change and policies may be added or improved
as needs in the group warrant. Members are encouraged to give input
as desired at any time.
Section 1: Membership
Membership is open to all home educating families who
are actively homeschooling and who desire to raise their children in
a Christian atmosphere. Members must be in agreement with the SACH
Statement of Faith, SACH Mission Statement of this organization, and
who agree to abide by the SACH Rules of Decorum.
A: Expectation
1. It is
expected that all member families will honor conservative Christian
principles at all SACH functions, to be active and to support SACH
in the work of the organization so that its purposes are
met.
2. SACH Members are encouraged to use their skills and
talents to aid, encourage, and inspire others. If an active SACH
member would like to offer other SACH members an educational
opportunity, they must contact the SACH Directors on their ideas and
intentions.
3. Members shall keep personal information of SACH
members listed in the directory and website private, and shall not
share this information with anyone outside of
SACH.
4. Members will refrain from engaging in any activity
which would bring reproach on SACH or Home
Education.
B: Applying for Membership
Application for membership is made by submitting a signed SACH
Membership Form and the annual dues payment of $20.00, (make payable
to SACH) to a SACH Director, Treasurer, or mailed to the address on
the membership form. Dues will not be refunded or
prorated. (Returning SACH Members will receive a discount
membership of $15.00 if dues are paid by Aug.
15th)
C: Term of Membership
The term of
membership shall be for a period of one year beginning at the start
of the fiscal year. Member families will be required to renew
their membership on an annual basis at the beginning of each fiscal
year. The SACH Fiscal year begins on August 1st and ends on July
31st.
D: Membership Benefits
Exclusive SACH members only field trips, social events,
educational fairs, reading incentive programs, educational
opportunities, teen activities, sports programs, extracurricular
activities, clubs, book sales, mom’s night out, homeschool
resources, a password protected website, or a monthly newsletter
(your choice), membership directory, new members packet, SACH
membership card for discounts at local participating merchants, and
a discount with HSLDA.
E: Grievance
Policy
Any member who has a question, problem, or concern about
the management of SACH is encouraged to bring his/her concern to the
SACH Directors. Members can also attend any Leadership Team
(Director’s & Coordinator’s) meeting to discuss their concerns
at that time.
Members are encouraged to avoid gossip and
grumbling, but to instead bring the problem to someone who can help
– the SACH Directors.
We strive to promote unity within the
group through words and conduct. If a situation or problem arises
within the group, refer to Matthew 18:15- 17.
F.
Termination of Membership
The SACH Leadership Team may suspend privileges of said
member if the individual family refuses to comply with the
guidelines set forth in these bylaws. For one offense, there will be
a written, e-mailed, or telephoned warning. Two offenses will result
in suspension from the next 2 age-appropriate activities. Continued
non-adherence to the SACH by-laws or extreme violation of the Rules
of Decorum will result in the suspension of said family from the
organization for the year or revocation of membership, as determined
by the SACH Leadership Team (Proverbs 6:23). This procedure will
remain confidential and known only to the Leadership Team and the
said member.
Membership may be terminated by vote of the SACH
Directors, if the member in question does not abide by the SACH
Bylaws, including the Statement of Faith and Decorum/ Rules of
Conduct.
Section 2:
Leadership
A. Leadership
Structure
The SACH policy direction shall be governed by a
Leadership Team consisting of a Director Family, and an Assistant
Director Family (Husband and Wife), and Coordinators to assist the
Directors. Coordinators include, but are not limited to, Treasurer/
Secretary, Field Trips/ Social Events Coordinator, Newsletter
Editor, Book Club Coordinator, Webmaster, and Benevolence
Coordinator. These may be changed or added to as needed by the
Leadership Team.
B. Requirements for
Leadership:
1. Must be actively home educating for at least
three years.
2. Must be an active member in good standing of
SACH for at least two years.
3. Signed and agrees to the SACH Statement of Faith
and must profess by credible testimony of faith in Jesus Christ
(Born Again Christian).
4. Must be a member of a Bible believing Church and
attend regularly.
5. SACH Director positions shall be a husband-wife
team with one vote (Does not apply to Coordinator positions).
6. The leadership team strives to maintain quality
of leadership, the vision of the group, and harmony among the
leaders. SACH Leaders will serve as a positive Christian example to
other homeschoolers and the community, and lead with a servant’s
heart.
7. Directors and Coordinators will serve for one
full school year. In the event of a Mid-term vacancy, the
replacement will be appointed by the SACH
Directors.
8. There will be no term limits for the Leadership
Team. A position will become available by resignation, death, or
removal.
9. A candidate must not hold a leadership position
within another homeschool group.
C. Elections
In the event of a Director or Coordinator position
becomes vacant, SACH elections will be held near the end of the
fiscal year. Each member family will have one vote (must be an
active member to vote).
Nominations for any leadership position must be
submitted to the SACH Directors.
In the event that a
position is not filled by the election process, the replacement will
be appointed by the SACH Directors.
Notices of elections will be
posted on the SACH website, email, and by newsletter no later than
30 days prior to an election.
Section 3:
Meetings
Leadership Team Meetings
1. Directors meetings (Directors only) may be needed
occasionally to discuss policy issues and the direction of SACH.
These meetings will be scheduled by the Directors.
2. If needed, a Directors/ Coordinators meeting may be
called by the Directors. All Directors and Coordinators will be
invited. A vote can not be taken unless all Directors are present.
For a vote to be carried, it must have 100% of Directors &
Assistant Directors vote and two- thirds (2/3) majority of
Coordinators present.
General Membership Meetings
SACH will conduct two scheduled meetings annually. A
“Kick- Off” meeting in August, and an, “End- Of- The- Year” meeting
usually in May. Also, certain issues may arise that need to be
addressed by the general membership, or a special speaker is called
to speak at a general membership meeting. If the need arises to call
a general membership meeting throughout the year, a notice will be
posted on the website, email, and by newsletter no later than 30
days prior to the date. If a vote is called on an issue, it must
have a two- thirds (2/3) majority of members present to be carried
(must be an active member to vote).
Section 4: Finances
A: Dues
The $20.00 annual dues cover, but are not limited to,
website costs, newsletter printing/postage, copies, paper products,
party/ events supplies, new member packet, facility rent, special
speakers/ entertainment, and phone chain calls. (Returning SACH
members receive a discounted membership of $15 if dues are paid by
August 15th)
Amount of dues and the coverage is set by the SACH
Directors, but if there is a fee increase, it is announced and
discussed with the SACH membership in advance.
SACH will
maintain a deposit account with an insured financial
institution.
B:
Compensation
The SACH Leadership Team (Directors and Coordinators)
are volunteers, and do not receive any type of compensation for
their services. Leadership Team Members may be advanced or
reimbursed their actual and necessary expenses incurred in the
performance of their duties.
C:
Reimbursements
SACH Members will be reimbursed for their actual and
necessary expenses incurred in the performance of a pre-approved
SACH Function. The Directors or Treasurer may authorize a
disbursement of $100 or less. For amounts greater than $100,
the Directors must be notified.
Article VII - Amendment of
Bylaws
Proposed amendments to these Bylaws may be submitted in
writing to the SACH Directors by any active SACH member in good
standing. Proposals will be considered by the SACH Leadership
Team and adopted as proposed amendments if approved by a two-thirds
(2/3) majority of the SACH Leadership Team, with the exception of
the Rules for Decorum and the Leadership Structure, which may be
amended by the SACH Directors as needed.
Article VIII -
Dissolution
In the event that SACH is dissolved, any remaining
assets (after payment of final expenses) will be donated to the
Samaritan’s Purse. This provision of the Bylaws is irrevocable
(except in the case that the Samaritan’s Purse is no longer) and not
subject to amendment. In no event will any part of the assets be
returned to any SACH member, directly or indirectly. If Samaritan’s
Purse is no longer, the remaining Leadership Team shall designate a
Christian Charity to donate the remaining
funds.
