REACH REACH REACH REACH REACH REACH
 

An Overview of REACH and Our Policies

The REACH board 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.

I.   Membership Requirements:

     A. Applicants must meet the REACH family definition and be actively engaged in private, independent home education.
     B. Payment of $20 annual dues. 
     C. Arrange at least one field trip or activity for the group. 

II.  Leadership:

     A. Requirements for election to the board of directors: 
        1. Has homeschooled at least three years and is home educating at least one of their school-aged children.
        2. Has been an active member of REACH at least two years.
        3. Has been elected by the present REACH board.
        4. Has signed the statement of faith.

     B. Duties
        1. Oversee the carrying out of the purpose statement.
        2. Oversee functioning of group.
        3. Strive to maintain quality of leadership, the vision of the group, and harmony among the leaders.

III. How the Group Functions

     A. Finances:
        1. The annual dues pay for, but are not limited to, the REACH website, facility rent, liability insurance, special speakers, student activities, and the purchase of library resources.
        2. Membership dues are non-refundable.

     B. Benefits:
        1. Available to members who have paid their dues and provide at least one field trip/activity during the year.
        2. Website access for all group information, HSLDA discount, incentive programs, use of resource library, participation in field trips, and additional activities other members provide.

     C. Participation:
        1. Members are encouraged to use their skills and talents to aid, encourage, and inspire others.
           a. Spreading the burden of arranging and hosting activities helps prevent a few from carrying the entire load.
           b. "If members don’t do it, it doesn’t get done." 
        2. Members arrange at least one field trip or activity during their yearly membership. 
        3. The more field trips and activities each member is willing to arrange, the more opportunities there will be for fellowship and building community.

      D. Field Trips:
        1. Field Trips are initiated and planned by member families.
        2. Field trip rules are enforced.
        3. The liability release parents sign when they join REACH requires parents to be responsible for the safety of their children during the field trip.

     E. Recreational Activities:
        1. A group recreational activity like baseball, soccer, basketball, etc., can be offered if one or more families are willing to organize and coach the activity.

    F. Internet:
        1. A public website provides information about REACH, homeschooling events open to non-REACH members, helpful links, homeschool law, and homeschool helps.
        2. A private website provides information for REACH members regarding the field trips and activities organized by members plus other information related to REACH and to homeschooling.

     G. Resource Library:
        1. The Librarian oversees the operation of the library, with the help of Library Assistants.
        2. Resources are donated or purchased with group funds.
        3. The leadership team may discern the appropriateness of the materials. 

     H. Legal Information:
        1. Legal services are not provided by REACH.
        2. Membership in HSLDA is encouraged with a 15% discount to REACH members.      
        3. Membership with MACHE (Minnesota Association of Christian Home Educators) or NDHSA (North Dakota Home School Association) is encouaged to keep updated on information and changes in the law for each state.