**  Standards of Behavior  **
You must read this form for membership to be approved.
"Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!" ~~ Psalm 133:1

A high standard for behavior at all activities shall be maintained. We represent the entire homeschooling movement as well as Christ and ourselves individually. Because homeschool families are generally under greater scrutiny, we ask that dress be neat and modest, and that behavior be exemplary. Modesty and exemplary behavior are not easily outlined in a set of rules, and we could never address every possible application. However, we ask that you consider this issue prayerfully as a family before you sign this form. Please do not allow current styles or commonly accepted behavior to negatively affect your judgment, since our standard is Christ's and not the world’s. Particular sensitivity is needed in regard to unclean language and aggressive behavior. Parents are responsible for the behavior of their children at all times during an activity. If parents cannot attend a particular activity, their child may attend with another parent who has agreed to assume responsibility on that particular occasion. Children may not be "dropped off" at any activity. Teenagers (even if they can drive) must have an adult responsible for them at CHEMPA activities. Non -members may not participate in structured activities.

Specific guidelines:

·         No abusive or foul language, gossip or slander

·         No pushing, hitting, kicking, or aggressive play

·         No aggressive toys (guns, knives, etc)

·         Acceptance of rebuke and cooperation with any adult member

·         A cooperative and mannerly attitude with all people during games

·         Sensitivity to the safety and feelings of younger children

·         Respect for property and willingness to replace damaged property

·         No short shorts, or bare midriffs

·         No public displays of affection between young adults of the opposite sex

·         Boys are to wear shirts during all activities, including sports

·         Quiet attentiveness during field trips and at other times when adults are speaking to the group

**  HANDLING OFFENSES  **

Step 1-If your child has been hurt or offended, you MUST first approach the offending child's parent. If, for some extraordinary reason, you are unable to do this, you may contact an officer for assistance in approaching the other parent.

If your brother sins against you, go and show him his fault just between the two of you...."

Matthew 18:15 NIV.

Our group will continue to work well if we are all willing to correct our children when they have broken any of the rules or have been unkind in any other way. Always have your child promptly apologize when he or she has hurt or offended another person in the group.

Steps 2 thru 4 are for serious infractions only. Please realize it is your responsibility as a mature adult to pursue step one PRIOR to step two.

"Do not go hastily to court...Debate your case with  your neighbor himself.”    (Prov. 25:8-9)

Step 2--Once you have approached the offending child's parent, if you feel further action is needed,  contact an officer about your concern. The officer will gather information from both sides, and then consult  with the President about the offense.  A warning may be issued.

Step 3--If the same behavior continues, the President will give the Parent written notice of the substance of the complaint. The parent of the offending child will be asked to respond to the President and/or the offended child’s parent in writing.

Step 4--In the rare event that offensive behavior continues, the offending child will be given a period of probation. During that time, the child's parent must stay with the child at ALL times in order to observe and control his or her behavior. If this supervision fails, the officers may vote to revoke    the offending child's family's membership in CHEMPA. No refunds will be made. If the offending   child's family desires to return to the group at any time after this, it will be considered on a case-by-case basis and voted on by the officers.

**Please check the appropriate box, and sign the membership form indicating you have read and agree to abide by these standards.

July 2006