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1 HANDBOOK of Gloria Deo Co-operative Gloria Deo Ethos Statement……………………………………………………………2 Classical Philosophy Of Education 4 Some Suggested Readings From A Christian Worldview 9 Membership Responsibilities 10 Application Process 14 Part-Time Teachers……………………………………………………………………….14 Planning Team 15 Curriculum and Mentoring Committee 16 Reimbursement and Billing Procedure 17 Revocation of Membership 18 Hold Harmless Agreement (formerly “Liability Waver”) 19

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Page 1: HANDBOOK of Gloria Deo Co-operative€¦  · Web viewHolding fast to the Word of God in a time of relativistic values, Gloria Deo seeks to demonstrate the priorities laid forth in

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HANDBOOK of Gloria Deo Co-operative

Gloria Deo Ethos Statement……………………………………………………………2

Classical Philosophy Of Education 4

Some Suggested Readings From A Christian Worldview 9

Membership Responsibilities 10

Application Process 14

Part-Time Teachers……………………………………………………………………….14

Planning Team 15

Curriculum and Mentoring Committee 16

Reimbursement and Billing Procedure 17

Revocation of Membership 18

Hold Harmless Agreement (formerly “Liability Waver”) 19

Quarterly Assessments 20

Index and Forms 22

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GLORIA DEO ETHOS STATEMENT

Holding fast to the Word of God in a time of relativistic values, Gloria Deo seeks to demonstrate the priorities laid forth in Scripture. In Matthew 22:37-39 Christ’s teaching is clear: a disciple of Christ must first, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the greatest commandment. The second is like it, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” The preeminence of the virtue of love is further supported and explained in 1 Corinthians 13. Gloria Deo seeks to embody a love of Christ in all our relationships. As we seek to do this, we will naturally develop a love for our fellow co-op workers, associates and family members. This will be demonstrated in the following ways:

Honor:Each person, regardless of age, race, gender, or nationality has unique value and giftedness from God. It is enough that God has made all mankind in His image; He has specifically stated that we are born as gifts from the Lord; we will honor each other. This is indeed commanded in Scripture, “honor one another above yourselves….” We will show honor to all, whether they are present or not. (Ps. 127:3; Rom. 12:10)

Freedom and deference:Our relationship is one of freedom in Christ and living by the Spirit. This life is not to fulfill the desires of our flesh, but to glorify God. As we pursue Christ, we will not knowingly allow our freedom to be a stumbling block to others. We will show deference to one another by limiting our freedom for the good of another. We will assume the best of one another recognizing that each person serves God according to his own conscience. (1 Cor. 8, Rom. 14) This pertains to all areas of standards and cultural issues.

Humility: Scripture is clear that we are “…not...competent in ourselves to claim anything for ourselves, but our competence comes from Christ.” “The man who thinks he knows something does not yet know it as he ought to know.” Recognizing this, we desire to manifest a dependence on Christ in all our endeavors and a realization that all good comes from the Father. This is true humility and will result in an openness and interest in others’ opinions and contributions because the work is not our own, but the Lord's. The accomplishments are dependent upon the Spirit, rather than our own abilities and thoughts. Christ is our greatest example of humility and concern for the needs of others. (2 Cor. 3:5; 1 Cor. 8:2; 1 Cor. 1:19-31; Phil. 2:1-11)

Communication:“Speaking the truth with love,” is characterized by gracious, honest speech, and open, direct communication. All effort should be made to avoid gossip and to follow the Matthew 18 model. Likewise, all effort should be made to encourage one another and demonstrate respect towards one another.

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(Eph. 4:15; Matthew 18:15-17; Eph. 4:29-32)Grace:

God’s unmerited favor has given us a relationship with his Son. We stand daily in that grace despite our utter unworthiness. As recipients of such a gift we will be grace-givers toward one another. Grace does not always equal leniency. Grace is giving goodness to others despite their unworthiness. That goodness can be manifest in word, deed, example and attitude. It is a wonderful blessing to all to give and receive grace. (Eph. 2:1-10, Phil. 2: 1-11)

Diligence:Whether teacher or student, adult or child, every member of Gloria Deo will seek to work diligently at the tasks set before them, “with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men…” Man’s appreciation or recognition of our labors will vary, God will always justly reward our service to Him. Our diligence will also be a response to the commitment and interdependent relationship we have with one another. (Col 3:23-25, Eph. 6:7-8)

CLASSICAL PHILOSOPHY OF EDUCATIONThis paper is an overview of the Gloria Deo Cooperative interpretation of a Christian classical method and some of its applications. The emphases and course offerings relect these. However, all subjects and courses mentioned in this paper are not available or offered within a given year as the Gloria Deo program is subject to the availability of teachers and time constraints within a given year. As stated in the application process, members are committed to the full program; membership is not open to those who wish to selectively choose from courses, etc. This has been established to provide a consistent program and to fulfill a specific niche in the home schooling community. While adherence to the full program has been and continues to be expected, electives have been established, and are noted as such. The courses chosen as electives have been such due to a number of factors including: availability in the time schedule (e.g. high school science), recognition of a specific course being optional within our classical framework (e.g. drama), the desire of parents to provide sole instruction in a course (e.g. theology), and cost for instruction (e.g. art classes with someone from outside of the co-op), etc. There are many wonderful books and articles that would give more depth to this approach. A list of a few suggested readings follow this overview.

The Tools of Learning: INQUIRY SKILLS OF REASONING SKILLS OF PRUDENT JUDGMENT AND EFFECTIVE EXPRESSION

These tools are coupled with: A THOROUGH GROUNDING IN CORE SUBJECTS A GOOD UNDERSTANDING OF HISTORY APPLIED TO ALL SUBJECTS

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THEOLOGY AND ETHICS

These tools will enable the student to make independent, biblically grounded decisions, despite popular thought. It will also equip the student to persuade others in the application of a biblical world view.

An Emphasis on the Western CivilizationChristianity began in a Roman culture, and its spread is also the story of Western Civilization. Core classical disciplines are a reflection of a focus in this area (classical literature, classical history, philosophy/logic, Latin, foreign language, rhetoric, mathematics, science).

A Focus on Language1. The study of grammar and language rules (e.g. phonics, spelling)2. A study and appreciation of foreign language, especially Latin: the foundation for precise thinking, mental discipline, English vocabulary study, appreciation of classical and English literature, study of the Romance languages and of course, et cetera3. Study of rhetoric, persuasive speech and good forms of expression

Application to Other Classically Relevant SubjectsExamples of these are the fine arts, physical education, health, practical arts.

A Systemized Approach Using the Trivium1. History is a chronological study starting at the beginning of time, continuing to the present. Use of a timeline provides a framework for fitting all historical thoughts together. We suggest covering history from ancient time to the present during each stage of the Trivium.2. Literature is best keyed to the study of history3. Science ideally is studied in a four year pattern that roughly corresponds to the historical periods of scientific discovery: biology, (classification and the human body), earth science and basic astronomy, chemistry, and then physics (and computer science).

Stages of the Trivium (grades listed are guidelines)

1. GRAMMAR/KNOWLEDGE STAGE ( Grades K-4)

Appropriate goals during this stage: to provide building blocks for all other learning are laid here to accumulate raw data and information that is important to memorize whole categories of facts through rote memorization

and copy work to use methodologies which facilitate visual, auditory and tactile

learning

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to recite prose, poetry, and songs to study the structure of language to develop skills in comprehension

Subjects and their possible topics, goals, and/or methods:Theology/ Bible books of the Bible, Creeds, Catechism, the Lord’s prayer, Ten

Commandment

Language Arts learn grammar rules and parts of speech, using recitation/jingles and

diagramming phonics and spelling rules - with songs, games, visuals

Latin memorize endings

History and Geography read-aloud stories (relate to a time line) use role-playing, songs, maps memorize facts - states, countries, names, places, dates, continents,

geographical feature

Science Goals - Arouse enthusiasm and satisfy natural curiosity

Accustom child to reading and writing as a method of discovery Teach child how to observe carefully

Show science to be a coherent field of study with its own rulesIntroduce child to the vocabulary of science

Method - Study those aspects of science which the child finds naturally interestingRead about each subject; write brieflyFocus on observation-centered study (not deduction-based study)Use a science “spine” that concentrates the child’s attention on a

single areaFind a program which uses and explains proper vocabulary

Math drill facts (+ , ,x , /) ( <, >) use recitation, games, charts, rhythms, place value charts, skip

counting measurements, geometric figures, calendar facts

Other Classes: Health and safety, Manners, Fine Arts, Physical education.

2. LOGIC/UNDERSTANDING STAGE ( Grades 5-8)

Appropriate goals during this stage:

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to provide tools for the organization of facts to analyze and comprehend relationships between facts to develop abstract thought (“why“) to study cause and effect to integrate different fields of knowledge to analyze logical reasoning based on known facts, syntax and analysis to read essays, argument, and criticism to study plot, character, foreshadowing, literary techniques, and the

message of the author to write essays and begin research by use of the library and reference

materials to present speeches to learn how to use language, including define terms and making

accurate statements to construct an argument to detect fallacies and invalid inferences

Subjects and their possible topics, goals, and/or methods:Theology/Bible conduct, morals, the rational structure of Christian thought, clarifying

the relations between dogma and ethics learn Biblical teachings on the Trinity, deity of Christ, the sinfulness of

man, creation as children are reading, they should ask what each author is saying

about:-the nature of God, the universe, and man-the basis for ethics and morality; the cause of evil and suffering-what happens to man after death-the meaning of history

Language Arts Diagramming, mechanics of composition, prepare and present

compositions for peer review Develop reading comprehension, study literary devices

Latin begin systematic study (of Latin grammar especially)

Logic informal and beginning formal

History and Geography begin analyzing events, share narratives or book reports reasons for wars, migrations, inventions, forms of government study New York on a rotating basis

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continue memorization and recitation of facts - states, countries (use songs, maps)

Roman history hands-on activities

Math (elective) reinforce facts, apply with activities and learning aids, practice

computations progress from such things as story problems to the proofs of algebra

or geometry syllogism in its particular application to number and measurement

Science(elective) Goals - Teach the proper use of the scientific method

Teach the limits and biases of the scientific methodAccustom child to proper record-keeping methodsLead child into an understanding of the goals and limits of each

scientific fieldTeach child to follow a logical progression of thought

Method - Focus on one field of study long enough to learn its proceduresUse a curriculum that focuses on experimentation and deductionRequire proper record-keeping

1. What question am I trying to answer?2. What could the answer be?3. How will I test this answer?4. What result did I get?5. Does this agree with the answer I though I would get? If not, what answer should I give instead?

Teach child to question the basic assumptions of the textUse multiple sourcesLook for logical fallacies and presuppositions

Other classes may include(elective): Health, Home-ec, Music, Art, PE, Drama

3. RHETORIC/WISDOM STAGE ( Grades 9-12)

Appropriate goals during this stage: to derive principles (after analyzing the “what” and ”why” of relationships) to apply what is comprehended to use expressive communication of understood principles (in clear,

forceful, elegant language) to write a thesis and defend it against criticism to develop originality, creativity

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to begin to specialize in a particular branch of knowledge

Subjects and their possible topics, goals, and/or methods:Theology/Bible

learn how to present and defend the faith (apologetics) learn to critique world views that set themselves up against God and

His WordLanguage Arts, Reading and History

study/analyze “Great Books” study cause and effect apply historical research to views in economics, science, government,

civicsLatin

Latin is to be completed until Latin 2 Latin 3 and beyond may be offered as an elective

Formal logic and Rhetoric utilizing logic properly in forming positions gaining mastery in rhetoric : the art/science of using words effectively

in speaking or writing so as to influence or persuade [composition, research papers, speech, debate]

Science(elective) Goals - Instill a technical knowledge of the scientific disciplines

Help the student understand science as a “human endeavor”Put science into its historical and social contextUse science as a way to discuss ideas

Methods - Use a technically thorough, upper-level science textPursue an outside course of “science reading” in chronological orderDiscuss the philosophical issues raised by each field of scienceTrace the development of technology through historyQuestion the “facts.” Always ask: why did this idea arise at this time?

Math(elective) Lab and/or tutoring apply to surveying, economics/accounting, engineering/technologies

Specialized Studies(elective) in other areas such as: Health, nutrition, Home economics

Industrial arts, Fine Arts 4. Core Courses: For the purpose of maintaining a Classical approach and

support system for home school families the following courses will be offered every year but is subject to teacher availability.

Elementary classes including grammar and LatinApologia SciencesGreat books/readingWritingLatin through Latin2 (Latin classes after 2 will be offered as electives)

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LogicRhetoricHistory

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SOME SUGGESTED READINGS FROM A CHRISTIAN WORLDVIEW

Recommended articles:

“Why Classical Education” by Fritz HinrichsThis article addresses what classical education is, why it is necessary, and what are its benefits. http://www.gbt.org/clasced.html

“The Lost Tools of Learning” by Dorothy Sayers This is a famous article by Dorothy Sayers, peer to C. S. Lewis. Many attribute

this article to be the catalyst for beginning the revival of classical education. http://www.gbt.org/text/sayers.html

“Classical studies and Christian Education” by Bruce McMenomyDr. McMenomy addresses the historic conflict of classical studies with

some Christian educators and the reintegration of classical learning and Christian

Education. http://www.scholarsonline.org/Info/WhitePapers/Csand-CE.html

Recommended books:

The Well Trained Mind by Jessie Wise & Susan Wise BauerWhile explaining the ideas of classical education, this book focuses primarily on methods to implement a Christian classical education in your home. It includes suggested schedules and curricula.

Classical Education, the Movement Sweeping America by Gene Edward Veith, Jr. and Andrew Kern Broader in scope, this book provides an understanding of the value of a classical education in this post modern culture and a glimpse of what a Christian classical education might look like in varying approaches. It also provides vision for carrying that approach through the undergraduate level and what institutions provide a classical program.

Norms and Nobility by David HicksThis is not light fare, but will give much food for thought. Providing a thorough

explanation of classical theory, its relations to Christianity and the modern world, Hicks gives us a vision for raising noble students who are “nurtured

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consistently on truth, goodness, and beauty.” “There is no better book on Classical Education.“ George Grant

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MEMBERSHIP RESPONSIBILITIESI. As a cooperative, all members are interdependent and responsible for the

continuation and effectiveness of this cooperative. The Ethos statement helps to guide conversations and the atmosphere. Consensus is the goal as plans and policies are evaluated.

II.Parents should expect to be the primary teacher for two classes. Every effort will be made to provide teachers with one class time free as well as a lunch break.

III. Parents are responsible for their children’s education. Gloria Deo provides a setting similar to a classroom, once per week, and attempts to offer other opportunities that may not be available in a home environment, but does not take responsibility from parents to provide what is needed to complete their children’s education.

IV. It is primarily the responsibility of the parents to have open/direct communication with their children’s teachers when there are concerns about course content, homework, use of classroom time or classroom management. However, this communication does not allow the parents to dictate to the teachers how they will teach. Teachers are governed by predetermined expectations from the cooperative planning regarding the goals of the classroom and the defining articles of Gloria Deo. If parents are not satisfied with the results of their interactions with a teacher, they should bring their concerns to the planning team member that is responsible for that area of concern. The PT member will decide how to resolve the situation.

V. Teachers provide IHIP information for the parents by May 10 including: list of materials and books estimated cost (for materials/books only) an over-all outline or a list of topics to be covered during the school

year the prerequisites or skills needed in order to participate in your class

This will help parents to have the information that they will need for the school district, budget and also to be able to look for books at the used curriculum sales.

VI. Teachers prepare a syllabus by August 1A. Using the IHIP information, add more detail describing the goals

for each quarter.B. Write out a syllabus for the individual classes for the first eight

weeks (the first quarter). A syllabus may include dates, lesson topics, and page

numbers of a book or text. It may also list expected homework

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assignments.C. At-home projects should have the pre-approval of parents. This

may be done in person or by mailbox or e-mail.D. Provide one sample lesson plan for a class (for one day).E. Provide copies for the families in each class as well as a copy to

keep in a master file.

F. In planning the class time, teachers should keep in mind the academic goals of

the Co-op which are both Christian and Classical. The time spent at Co-op should not be occupied with “fillers” (such as videos or games) that do not

fit the objectives intended for a particular class. Teachers should reflect

deference when picking music, reading materials, samples, etc. for the class.

Choices should be made from a conservative perspective for Co-op classes

though at home families may choose to follow other choices.G. It is the responsibility of the teacher to find a sub from the present

Co-op teacher list when they are going to be absent. If there is a difficulty in finding someone available during your class time to fill-in for you ,you are to contact a member of the planning team to give further assistance.

VII. The Gloria Deo Directory should not be given to anyone outside the membership

or used for solicitation.

VIII. Financial ResponsibilitiesA. Teachers do not charge for their time or teacher materials. Students only pay for items that are consumable or they are directly using; such as textbooks.B. There will be shared costs at the Co-op for classroom expenses, etc. Reimbursement fees need to be submitted to the treasurers within a timely fashion to insure adequate petty cash funds are available. For further details about the handling of finances, please refer to the Financial Policy.

IX. Weekly responsibilities A. Teacher

1. Write out and/or adjust lesson plans. Sample class time schedule:

5-10 minutes review

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15 minutes of new material (1st - 5th grade)30 minutes of new material (6th - 12th grade)10-20 minute activity that reviews or reinforces new

material5-10 minutes for pick-up and dismissal

2. Keep a record of attendance for each class3. Check/correct homework; grade if appropriate.4. Provide clear, written instructions for new homework

assignments on the co-op day. If  a teacher would like to provide an assignment or changes to the homework already assigned after the co-op day, students will  not be required to have it completed by the next co-op day (although it may be in the best interest of the student to follow the teacher's instructions).  Exceptions may be made based upon prior approval.

5. Provide needed information for your helper to be prepared.

B. Classroom order1. Class should start and end on time. Punctuality is essential.2. Children are expected to be respectful and well behaved. Any disciplinary issues need to be communicated directly

with the parent in a timely manner. 3. Children should raise their hands to be called on. 4. Children should be dismissed by the teacher in an orderly

fashion, quietly, no running. Children younger than Second Grade must be directly supervised by either a parent or a teacher at all times during the Co-op day.

5. Rooms should be straightened; tables and chairs wiped off as needed

and put back according to the Church‘s instructions.

C. Parents1. Make sure your children are prepared for class.2. Do not bring sick children in to Co-op. Sick would be

described as contagious, having a fever, runny nose, cough that would be distracting to class as well as spreading germs.

3. Do not bring in visitors, friends, relatives, children being baby- sat without consulting the Planning Team.

4. Families must have their own medical insurance and sign the Hold Harmless Agreement.5. It is the responsibility of the parents to be in direct

communication

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with each teacher of their children’s classes if they have any concerns.

6. Whereas teachers are responsible for the conduct of their classrooms,

parents are ultimately responsible for the attitudes and behaviors of the

children. See the Gloria Deo Ethos Statement for further clarification.

7. Parental Supervision Policy of Gloria Deo is as follows: all parents of children under 5th grade are required to stay on the premises during the Co-Op day. If you need to leave the premises notify the PT and the teachers of the children under 5th

grade that you will be taking with you.

X. Monthly responsibilitiesMeet together for prayer, planning, information, communication,

teacher training and development.

XI. Quarterly responsibilitiesA. Teachers prepare a syllabus for each class. For the second, third and fourth quarters the syllabi will be due the

seventh week of the previous quarter.B. Teachers provide a quarterly report for each class for parents by

the eighth week of each quarter:

describing the academic material that has been covered an individual academic assessment of each student’s

progress (information for school district reporting) individual assessment of performance or behavior as

needed C. Student assessment forms will be available to encourage

communication for commendation and concerns.

XII. Absences (no more than four per year)A. Notify the members of the planning team as soon as possible.

Please arrange for someone to get homework assignments for your children.

Make arrangements for someone in the Co-op to teach your class, fill in

for you as a helper, or take care of other responsibilities unless there is an

absolute last minute problem.B. If a parent needs to stay at home with a sick child and would like

to make arrangements for their other children to attend Co-op: only

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siblings in fifth grade and up may come without the parent. The parent must make

arrangements for a family at Co-op to take responsibility for that child(ren).

XIII. Teacher development and training may include guest speakers, mentoring, information shared at a monthly meeting (divided up into subject areas or student age levels), suggestions from observations, and parents’ feedback forms.

XIV. Coordinator Responsibilities (see Coordinator Responsibilities in Index) All members should be willing to help with administrative needs such as:

-Prepare schedule for morning devotions (remind the mom in charge each week)

-Moderate monthly meetings -Oversee communication system (mailboxes, bulletin board, master

file) -Maintain financial records and provide reimbursement forms-Schedule field trips -Organize family activity nights and provide sign-up list for monthly

meetings-Facilitate church and Co-op relationship -Supervise classrooms being put back in order -Manage use of copier -Maintain first aid kit and medicines-Purchase office supplies (stapler, staples, 3-hole punch, paper clips,

tape, white out, scissors, pencils, sharpeners, white board markers)

-Oversee Nursery-Kindergarten refreshments: juice, snacks, cups, napkins

-Supervise moms’ coffee/tea/refreshment supplies, cups, plates, spoons, napkins

-Oversee art supplies (pencils, colored pencils, scissors, crayons, smocks)

-Check on nursery supplies and provide weekly nursery log -Monitor lunch room and clean-up-Monitor children outside during lunch-time-Copy homework papers-Serve on the planning team-And other needs as required

XV. Exceptions: Policy exceptions are only permissible with written

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approval from the PT.

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APPLICATION PROCESS

I. Before February 15* prospective members must:o turn in an application form, o visit the Co-op, o obtain a Pastor’s reference, o and provide the name of someone who may be called for a

character reference.*Late entries will be considered on a case by case basis.

II. Prospective members will receive a packet of the Gloria Deo Constitution, Ethos

Statement and Handbook which must be read and agreed to.

III. Families will be committed to the entire Gloria Deo program. The Co-op will not be open to those who want to selectively choose from courses, activities, or programs. Families should plan to make a time commitment of one full school day

a week, including cleaning (after classes are done) and other responsibilities.

IV. Prospective members will meet with the Planning Team for an interview and be presented to the current members for consideration.

PART TIME TEACHERS

I. If the Part-time teacher is not a Co-op Member and has been invited by Co-op consensus to teach they will need to fill out a Member application.

II. Part-time Professional Teachers include those who are presently working as a teacher full-time and volunteering at Co-0p on a part-time basis. Expectations for Part-time Professional teachers are flexible to accommodate for their workload required by their current career and also in recognition of our inviting them to volunteer their professional services. Also, in some cases, they may be the second parent teaching for their family as well.

III. Deadlines for Part-time Professional Teachers (non-professional teachers should follow the deadlines as outlined in the Section for Member Teachers): a. IHIP is due June 1st so parents have time to find books and

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materials.b. First quarter syllabus must be turned in no later than August 1st

especially if a summer assignment is expected to be completed by the first day of Co-op.

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PLANNING TEAM

I. Duties of the Planning Team: see index “Roles and Responsibilities Chart” and PT job descriptions.

II. Major Co-op decisions (such as courses taught, addition of new members, scheduling, policy changes, constitutional changes) must be approved by a majority of the current membership. Purchases of over ($25) will need the prior approval of the majority membership.

III. In order to facilitate the responsibility of the PT to provide oversight of Gloria Deo and still maintain cooperative decision making, it will be understood that in matters of lesser importance, consent will be assumed unless a member addresses concerns or lack of consent to someone on the PT. Items to be revised or added to the handbook will be submitted in writing to members for their consent and/or comments. Members may request a vote for the proposal or a discussion at a meeting. If after 2 weeks no concerns are addressed, consensus will be understood. However, items requiring further discussion will be presented at a meeting and if needed, a vote will be made. Amendments to the Constitution will follow the procedures set forth in Article VIII, Amendments in the Constitution.

IV. Each PT member will be required to give weekly reports for their responsibilities.

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CURRICULUM AND MENTORING COMMITTEE

I. Begin the process of deciding which classes may be offered and who would teach those classes with an overview of the Co-op day.

II. Oversee the teaching of the classes and mentor new teachers.A. Objectives that are clear and easily implemented.B. Teaching is understandable to the children in the class (vocabulary,

visuals, worksheets, games, manipulatives) and presented at a comfortable pace.

C. Homework is appropriate for the age and content of the class.

III. Oversee the application of the Classical Philosophy of Education.

IV. Plan teacher training topics and invite speakers.

V. Oversee any science/history fairs or geography/spelling bees.

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REIMBURSEMENT AND BILLING PROCEDURE

To bill for supplies purchased, the Gloria Deo member must submit a Reimbursement Form with an amount due from the families being billed. Reimbursement Forms are submitted to a treasurer. Each family in the co-op will supply $35.00 which will be put into their co-op account. As bills come in, depending on which families are affected, the bill amount(s) will be withdrawn from their account. This information will be recorded in a ledger maintained by the co-treasurers. Parent’s are able to view their ledger upon request. Purchases of over ($25) will need the prior approval of the majority of the membership. Charges may not be made for more than $5 per family or more than a total purchase of $25 without the prior approval of the Planning Team. Gloria Deo will be paying all bills due and parents will write checks to Gloria Deo. If a bill other than a petty cash amount is due, such as the quarterly church fees and art payments, and is not paid to Gloria Deo within two weeks of the due date, a $1.00 charge, per week, past the due date will be applied. If there are extenuating circumstances presented to the leadership team (prior to the late fee application) as to why payment is not able to be made, there will be an exception of the late fee made, upon approval of Gloria Deo's planning team.

At times, some parents may have to replenish their petty cash amount. This will depend on the individual reimbursement amounts due. The treasurers will notify parents ahead of time if this happens. If families do not utilize all their petty cash they will receive a refund of the remaining funds at the end of the year. Facility fees and/or any pre-paid expenses (excluding petty cash not drawn on) are non-refundable. Reimbursement fees need to be submitted to the treasurers within a timely fashion to insure adequate petty cash funds are available.

Presently, each teacher is responsible for the expenses of their teacher materials. This is mutually beneficial because parents aren’t buying teacher materials for every class their student(s) are in and the teacher has the option of reselling the materials at the end of the year. After being researched by the PT this is the most cost effective way. Should a teacher need assistance in obtaining quality materials for a class(es) s/he can appeal to the PT for direction. Teachers do not charge for their time or materials. Students are only required to pay for items that are consumable or they are directly using; such as textbooks.

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REVOCATION OF MEMBERSHIP

I. The decision to revoke membership will only be made by a unanimous vote of the Planning Team based on noncompliance with the Gloria Deo documents.

II. Serious Misconduct: Should a student commit an act with such serious consequences that the Planning Team deems it necessary, suspension or revocation may be imposed immediately. Examples of such serious misconduct may include, without limitation: acts that seriously endanger the safety of other students or cooperative members; violence/vandalism to the facilities; violations of law; or other deliberate acts in clear contradiction of Scriptural commands that threaten serious harm to others. Students and/or families may also be subject to discipline for serious misconduct which occurs after the cooperative hours.

III. Any family whose membership is revoked will be ineligible for membership for a period of not less than one school year, at which time application for membership may be tendered.

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Hold Harmless AgreementTrinity Alliance Church

This Hold Harmless Agreement is entered into by and between ________________________________________(Name and Address) and Trinity Church, 1275 Spencerport Road, Rochester, New York on this _____ day of ____________(month) in the year _______. It is applicable for the following date(s):

________________(Month) _____________(day(s) ________(year)

We hereby agree to indemnify Gates Church and hold Gates Church harmless from any claims and/or demands of any person, persons, or group arising out of or resulting directly from any act of negligence on our part while we are engaged in the use of Gates Church Facilities.

_______________________________ Authorized Agent

_______________________________ Group or Organization

Approved and Accepted by (Agent) ____________________________________{Gates Church} Signature Date

Trinity Alliance Church1275 Spencerport Rd. · Rochester, NY 14606 · 585-247-4352

www.TrinityAlliance.com · [email protected] harmless.doc03-03-03GAC

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Quarterly Report/Evaluation Grades K-6

Student name: Class: Quarter: Teacher(s):

Absences this quarter:

Is attentive during instruction: O C I AC

Participates in class discussion and activities: O C I AC

Uses self-control as appropriate: O C I AC

Follows directions: O C I AC

Areas of Strength:

Additional Comments:

Report:

EffortO OutstandingC ConsistentI InconsistentAC Area of Concern

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Teacher please fill in what is pertinent to your class:

Student Evaluation Form/Quarterly Report Pass/Fail7th– 12th Grade

Grade __________Letter or Number

Student name: Insert student’s name here A = 90 – 100

Class: Insert name or title of class here B = 80 – 89

Quarter: 1st C = 70 – 79

Teachers: Insert teacher’s name here D = 60 – 69

Insert teacher’s name here F = 0 – 59

I = IncompleteOn a scale of 1 – 5 please rate the student.1 – unsatisfactory, 2 – needs improvement, 3 – satisfactory, 4 – very good, 5 – outstanding

Participation: 1 2 3 4 5

Comments: Insert comments here.

Attitude: 1 2 3 4 5

Comments: Insert comments here.

Organization: 1 2 3 4 5

Comments: Insert comments here.

Assignment completion: 1 2 3 4 5

Comments: Insert comments here.

Areas of strength: Insert comments here.

Areas that need strengthening: Insert comments here.

Additional comments/suggestions: Insert comments here.

Report:(Brief list or description of academic materials covered this quarter)

Insert description here.Insert description here.Insert description here.Insert description here.

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COMMUNICATION FORM

To:_________________________________From:_______________________________

Student:_____________________________Class:_______________________________Teacher:_____________________________

Commendation:

Concern: Please contact me at co-op or by phone. Phone number:

COMMUNICATION FORM

To:_________________________________From:_______________________________

Student:_____________________________Class:_______________________________Teacher:_____________________________

Commendation:

Concern: Please contact me at co-op or by phone.Phone number:

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YOU NEED TO REPLACE THIS SHEET WITH A COPY OF THE ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES CHART FOUND ON THE WEBSITE IN THE SAME FOLDER AS THE HANDBOOK! THANK YOU!

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Gloria Deo Planning TeamDirector of Co-Op and Academics

Job Description

General Overview: This member will lead the PT with vision planning and administrative development. She will be directly responsible for the PT Secretary. She will advise academics for grades K-12 including: teachers, parents, student support, classroom and homework management. This member will report at weekly PT meetings on her responsibilities.

Responsibilities:1. Advising communication between parents/teachers as needed to ensure quality academics

are maintained.2. Assuming or delegating the following tasks:

a. PT Minutesb. Homework Sheetc. Teacher Reviewsd. Policy Changes/Exceptionse. Meeting Agendasf. Teacher Developmentg. Class Schedules/Listsh. Constitution and Handbooki. School year calendar including IHIP and quarterly dates

3. Maintaining records for your tasks in confidence when necessary.a. Assesment Formsb. Calendarc. PT Minutes

4. Supervising other committees and tasks

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Gloria Deo Planning TeamAsst. Director of Daily Planning and Member Development

Job Description

General Overview: This member will assist the Director with any delegated responsibilities. This member will supervise the coordinators for: special events, Co-op Day, new members and student development. This member will report at weekly PT meetings on her responsibilities.

Responsibilities:1. Advising communication between Gloria Deo and possible new members to ensure clear

values and responsibilities are portrayed.2. Assuming or delegating the following tasks:

a. Events, hostess, cleaningb. Field tripsc. Cleaning of facilitiesd. First aid and snackse. Teacher’s Room Refreshmentsf. Nursery and PReKg. New Membership Mentoringh. Honor society/rolli. Student councils and officesj. Yearbook

3. Maintaining records pertinent to your tasks in a confidential manner where required.a. Membership Directoryb. Labels/names for coat rack and name tags for 1st day of schoolc. Pastoral referencesd. Renewal forms

4. Supervising other committees and tasks

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Gloria Deo Planning TeamAssistant Director of Office and Building Management

Job Description

General Overview: This PT member will assist the Director in any way delegated. This member will supervise the following coordinators: Communications and Office Mgmt, Finance and Facility. This member will report at weekly PT meetings on her responsibilities.

Responsibilities:1. Advising communication during meetings, part-time teachers and in regards to finances.2. Assuming or delegating the following tasks:

a. Copier and office suppliesb. Bulletin Boardc. Mailboxes and teacher’s room filesd. Deadlines and paperworke. Openings and Closingsf. Devotions and Announcementsg. Teacher’s Meeting Secretary and Facilitatorh. Treasurersi. Financial Policyj. Building Liaison and Security

3. Maintaining records related to your tasks in a confidential manner where required.a. IHIPs, Quarterly Reports, Syllabib. Teacher’s Meeting Minutesc. Financial Records/Reportsd. Building Map

4. Supervising other committees and tasks

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Gloria Deo Planning TeamSecretary to the Planning Team

Job Description

General Overview: The secretary will not be a member of the PT but will answer directly to the Director of the PT. She will assist the PT members in any way delegated.

Responsibilities:1. Ensuring accurate communication between members of the PT2. Assuming or delegating the following tasks:

a. Taking minutes at weekly PT meetings and getting them posted to PT members in a timely manner

b. Adjusting policy as directedc. Drafting and Sending out communication in Mailboxes as directedd. File/Doc postings on Website as directede. Copying

3. Maintaining records related to your tasks in a confidential manner where required.a. IHIPs, Quarterly Reports, Syllabib. PT Meeting Minutesc. Financial Records/Reportsd. Confidential Recordse. Teacher Assessmentsf. Member Comments

4. Assistant Teacher’s Meeting Facilitator/Time Keeper

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