ECCHO Fine Arts Handbook
Ellis County Christian Homeschool Organization
Fine Arts Handbook
ECCHO Fine Arts Leadership 24-25
Fine Arts Director: Stacey Bailey
Theater Director: Stacey Bailey
Theater Co-Directors: Jennifer Flachman, Kristen Parnell
Yearbook Director: Katie Wheeler
ECCHO Culture
ECCHO believes fine arts are an important addition to a student’s education. Our fine arts programs exist to fulfill the mission of ECCHO through the educational environment of these subjects. Fine arts offer a unique setting where lessons complement those learned at home to provide students with experiences and skills to help them excel in the world and shine their light in the community. ECCHO fine arts is committed to a disciple-driven approach of these lessons from a Biblical worldview.
What It Means To Be An ECCHO Eagle
*Always be Christ-like in our attitude, behavior, and actions on and off stage.
*Show up every day with the commitment, dedication, and sacrifice of putting ECCHO and your cast mates before yourself.
*Rehearse & perform with determination, pride, and a competitive spirit for your group and cast mates while showing humility and respectfulness to others.
*Be a good cast mate at ALL times.
Mission
The purpose and goal of ECCHO fine arts is to engage students in the creative acts born in us through the image of God, the Ultimate Creator, and to lead them to a deeper wisdom by shaping their moral imaginations through creative arts. Our goal is to grow our minds and bodies and to Shine His Light in the community as we pursue the arts we love. Our focus is to provide an environment that embodies Christ-like behavior in our students, leaders, parents, families, and audience. As Christian student-performers, we strive to honor Christ in how we conduct ourselves on and off the stage. We are called to be different, our focus should be on Jesus Christ, and our desire is to take His light to our community every time we step onto the stage.
Commitment
Commitment from students and parents is an important character quality. When a student commits to an ECCHO program, any scheduling conflicts with another organization, program, or team must be discussed with directors and it will be expected that ECCHO fine arts programs will take priority. This is important for teamwork and the character of the performer. Fine arts leadership will be sensitive to all student commitments while upholding the integrity of the programs.
Eligibility
* Candidates must be current ECCHO members in good standing, with no outstanding fees.
* Candidates must be able to agree to the time commitment for the fine arts program they’re trying out for.
* Candidates must meet the age/ grade requirement for the fine arts program they are trying out for.
* Candidates are currently homeschooled.
* Candidates are able to fulfill the audition process for the fine arts program they’re trying out for, if applicable.
Attendance
Every team functions best when every member is present. The program directors will always do everything possible to notify members of scheduled events at the beginning of each semester. If there is a definite scheduling conflict at the time of schedule distribution, parents and students should notify the directors right away in writing. Students are expected to attend and be on time for every scheduled event. On-time means in place and ready to go before the scheduled start time. If an unexpected, unavoidable scheduling conflict arises, communication with directors is expected well before the scheduled event begins.
Eagles Fine Arts Code Of Conduct
Fine Arts Student Code of Conduct:
* First class representation by fine arts students toward parents/families, fellow students, directors, audience members, and all others.
* Exhibit positive & exemplary sportsmanship at all times - ECCHO fine arts students will act with dignity and class amongst each other.
* Display appropriate demeanor/attitude by all students. Fine arts students will conduct themselves as polite young men and young ladies on and off the stage.
* Exhibit equal respect, value, and support for everyone.
* Understand the importance of leaving every venue and facility in better shape than we found them.
* Understand the physical and mental preparation required for rehearsing and performing.
* Fine arts students will always give their best, in attitude and action.
* Remember to eat before arriving at rehearsals or events - if we have an extended rehearsal or event, bring a light snack as needed.
* Fine arts students will come prepared to all classes, rehearsals, service days, events, etc.
* Fine arts students will refrain from cell phone use at classes, rehearsals, shows, and other events without permission from the directors.
* Fine arts students will be present and attentive at each class, rehearsal, or event. While always being polite, kind, and friendly to all people is important, socializing should happen after the event is completed.
Parent Code of Conduct:
* First class representation of ECCHO.
* Equal respect, value, and support for every student, parent, and family member associated with ECCHO Fine Arts.
* Mutual respect, tolerance, understanding, and caring in all program matters.
* Directors’ decisions, whether you understand, like, or agree, are made thoughtfully and prayerfully with the entire program in mind. Second-guessing the director’s decision is permitted, but please keep it to yourself until you have a chance to speak with a director privately for a clearer explanation.
* Emphasis on Team unity, Team effort & Team success is important - positive encouragement & support for each individual student & the entire program.
* Understand the reality that some students will have more time on stage and/ or more positions/ roles & assignments than others.
* Please text or call the director to quietly & tactfully discuss any concerns, questions, or ideas - please respect the 24-hour rule.
* 24-hour rule - no calls/texts 24 hours before or after an event to discuss any concerns. *See further explanation in this handbook.
ECCHO Dress Code
ECCHO members should dress appropriately for any given activity and will be required to adhere to the following dress code for ALL ECCHO events, functions, programs, activities, classes, and sports teams.
1. Shorts and skirts/dresses must be at least fingertip length. (Standing with arms straight down at your sides, if your fingertips touch your bare legs, what you are wearing is too short.) Shorts, skirts, jeans, and pants with rips above the fingertip length will not be allowed unless tights are worn underneath so that bare skin is not showing.
2. The following will not be allowed: tank tops that allow bra straps to show; tube tops; tops or low-rise pants/shorts that allow the midriff to be seen; see-through or skin-tight clothing; clothing that shows cleavage; clothing with offensive pictures or slogans; or shorts, skirts, or pants with any kind of writing across the rear.
3. No parts of underwear may be showing at any time.
4. To honor our more conservative members, swimwear for girls and women should be a one-piece suit or tankini with an over-shirt (t-shirt or modest tank) and shorts at co-ed water events. For boys and men, swim trunks and a T-shirt or tank.
5. Anyone violating this dress code may be asked to leave the event.
6. Any member of this organization that persists in violating this dress code will no longer be considered a member in good standing.
All costumes and uniforms will adhere to the ECCHO dress code.
Appearance
ECCHO Fine Arts students are representatives of ECCHO and are seen as leaders on and off the stage. Students should represent the program well by always presenting themselves with modesty, cleanliness (clean hair, nails, clothes, and proper hygiene), and appropriate clothes that follow the ECCHO dress code. They should always be kind, respectful, and friendly to everyone and exemplify ECCHO’s motto of shining His light.
Stage Time
ECCHO Fine Arts strives to offer a fun, ambitious, high school experience for our students and families. In order to make this happen for all of our students, stage time at any level is not guaranteed. Directors are sensitive to every student’s desire to participate. Attitude, effort, skill, ability, and safety are taken into consideration when determining roles. It is important that students and parents understand that success doesn’t always mean the student is in a lead role in their fine arts program.
24-Hour Rule
If you experience an issue, do not confront a director immediately before or after an event; instead, wait for a full twenty-four hours before making contact of any sort- this includes emails and text messages. Because impulsive meetings rarely promote resolution, the “24-hour rule” will always be in effect. This not only allows for reflection and prayer but for emotions to settle so rational, facts-oriented discussions can take place.
Parental Support & Expectations
The success of our students depends greatly upon parent support and participation. Parents should familiarize themselves with all requirements, guidelines, codes, and rules. Parents are expected to contribute to the program’s needs by signing up for parent service assignments. Communication is of utmost importance. Students AND parents are responsible for maintaining excellent communication with directors. Primary means of communication are generally email and Group Me.
Auditions & Applications
Auditions and applications are held for certain programs as needed each year. This gives students the opportunity to assess the program they are interested in and directors the opportunity to assess candidates as individuals and to see how candidates interact as a team. Candidates and parents will need to complete the scheduled audition or application process for the program they’re interested in. The audition or application processes vary by program.
Rehearsals
Rehearsal schedules will be provided by the program director as early as possible. If changes must be made an announcement will be made. Students and parents are responsible for keeping up with practice dates/times. Email and Group Me are the primary avenues for communication. Please ensure your parent email address on your ECCHO website profile is accurate and that you are receiving official ECCHO emails.
Fees
The ECCHO Eagles Fine Arts Programs strive to provide an opportunity for homeschooled students to have the full high school fine arts experience. As part of this program, we budget for program-related expenses. Fees are to be paid in full by the dates specified in each individual program. All monies paid by parents go directly to the program and help to pay the various expenses. Fine Arts program budgets are reviewed and approved by the ECCHO Board of Directors, and program fees are held in the ECCHO account where the treasurer keeps a monthly record of all expenses and income. As a part of the ECCHO Eagles Fine Arts Program, Parents agree to pay all fees due in a timely manner.
Transportation
Transportation to and from rehearsals and events is the sole responsibility of the student and parents. Prompt pickup is required as our venues are often public and directors are not allowed to (nor would they) leave students unattended.
Facilities
Although we do not own the facilities we use, we are blessed to have them available to us! Please be good stewards of that which the Lord provides us with. Please do all you can to keep the facilities clean and to leave them in better shape than we found them.
Multi-Program
Students may participate in multiple programs with ECCHO. Students and parents need to be mindful of the commitment to each program. Students need to make sure their directors know of other commitments and such so that they can plan accordingly.
Fine Arts Lettering Policy (currently available for the Theater Program)
Students bearing a “letter” or letter jacket from ECCHO represent faith, family, and ECCHO at all times. In light of this, the awarding of a letter is considered both an honor and a privilege. Students involved in serious disciplinary misbehavior may be barred from receiving a letter at the discretion of the ECCHO Board of Directors, even if the student meets all other criteria given below.
General Lettering Requirements
* The Student must participate in a full season/ year of theater (fall & spring shows).
* The Student must contribute to the team in a way that merits lettering, serving with excellence in multiple capacities (more than their on stage role).
* The student must attend all rehearsals, performances, and events except when cleared by the director.
* A student who is unable to finish a season for disciplinary reasons will be ineligible to letter that season/ year.
Varsity students exhibit the following competencies
* Embrace disruption. In every show there will be things that do not go according to plan. Varsity students approach these moments with enthusiasm and a solution-focused mindset.
* Demonstrate inspiration. Varsity students strive to encourage and build one another up. They foster creativity by sharing ideas, and are willing to think outside the box and try new things.
* Offer 360 degree thinking. Varsity students put their cast mates and the show first. They can see the bigger picture and are more concerned with seeing the program as a whole, and the show we’re performing, succeed than they are with receiving personal attention.
Jackets and Patches
The student’s family is responsible for the cost of the jacket. Varsity students are awarded one Letter “E”, one theater patch, and an eagle as part of the ECCHO Fine Arts program. The student’s family is responsible for the cost of additional patches.
Matthew 18
“If another believer sins against you, go privately and point out the offense. If the other person listens and confesses it, you have won that person back. But if you are unsuccessful, take one or two others with you and go back again, so that everything you say may be confirmed by two or three witnesses.” Matthew 18:15-16 (NLT)
Parenting and Directing are both complex roles. By keeping lines of communication open between parents, students, and directors, many potential problems can be avoided. This begins with clear communication between directors, parents, and students. ECCHO uses the Matthew 18 principle as our guide for resolving conflict. Matthew 18 provides clear biblical instructions for resolving conflicts:
- If a student has a question or complaint, he/she first must go to the person with a spirit of reconciliation and love and try to work out differences. This needs to happen before a parent approaches directors.
- If the problem is not resolved, the student may request a meeting with the person in conflict and a director
- If the issue is not resolved between the director and student, then a meeting with the fine arts director or another representative of the board may be requested.
- If the issue is still not resolved, a meeting with the fine arts director and/or board of directors may be requested.
The goal should always be to guard against divisive speech and gossip by solving problems at the lowest level with the fewest people possible.
Discipline
1. Students are expected to obey all leaders while attending ECCHO activities and abide by the ECCHO code of conduct at all times.
2. Ongoing discipline problems may result in the loss of activity privileges.
3. A three-step discipline policy will be followed for most discipline problems.
Eagles 3-step discipline policy
- A first offense will warrant a verbal warning from the Director or adult in charge.
- A second offense will result in documented discipline slip from the Director and a call to the parent.
- A third offense will result in a documented discipline slip from the Director and a call to the parent to set up a meeting with the board of directors, student, and parent to review the situation.
Incidents repeatedly occurring at different events will result in a more detailed review of the situation and/or loss of Eagles Fine Arts Program privileges.
Suspension
If a suspension is necessary it will be decided upon after a meeting with the ECCHO board of directors and program director.
ECCHO Theater Program
Mission: To be a Christ-centered group where students can explore their creativity while developing their talent and interest for theater: working to grow individual gifts, discipline, and self confidence while working together to develop a shared vision to provide quality entertainment for our audiences and a total theater experience for students.
Important Dates:
-Family meeting for the 2024-2025 Theater Program TBA
-Possible field trip 9/22/24- TBA
-Atwood hot dog & bake sale fundraiser Saturday, October 12 from 10am-2pm
(shifts in 1 hour increments)
-Fall end of semester rehearsal & performance dates: Performing Dec 6 & 7
-Possible field trip 12/14/24- TBA
-Spring semester extra rehearsals as needed Thursdays from 10am-12pm
-Spring service date TBA
-Possible field trip 4/3/25- TBA
-Spring end of semester tech week & performance(s): April 28-May 2 tech week
with performances May 2 & 3 (tentative until venue is confirmed)
Grading policy: Grades are determined based on participation as follows:
Attendance (present & ready to begin on time): 25%
Prepared with supplies (script, pencil, etc): 25%
Actively participates in class: 25%
Meets deadlines for memorization & blocking: 25%
Fall Semester Show: “Seasonal Stories of God’s Good Gifts: Angels in the Wings, The Crippled Lamb, You Are Special.” My goal is to not need rehearsal time outside of class for the Christmas show, but extra rehearsal time may be called as needed. Performing December 6 & 7.
Spring Semester Show: TBD. The spring show will require rehearsals outside of class time, especially for students cast in roles with lots of vocals & choreography.
Student Expectations: Students are expected to actively participate in classes and rehearsals, and to be team players: willing to learn and grow while helping and encouraging others. In theater there will be times a student needs to support their classmates by sitting quietly and attentively. Down times for those not on stage is not social time, and students should still be engaging with the class by observing the work being done. Students are welcome to bring a quiet activity (non-electronic) for such times. Be sure to review the ECCHO code of conduct and teen contract in detail as these clearly present expectations in all classes and programs, including theater.
Family Expectations: Theater parents are required to serve during rehearsals and productions as hall/ door monitors. Each family is asked to participate in our program fundraising events. Families are expected to participate in the planning and execution of fall and spring performances. This includes providing costumes and props for your student, contributing time and talents as you’re able, set work, helping deliver props to/ from storage, serving as “hall monitor” during extra rehearsals and backstage during performances, and other support that might be needed. Each family can expect to help with at least one of these extra duties.
Student(s) and a parent please sign below to indicate understand the program commitments outlined above:
_________________________________________ _________________________________________
_________________________________________ _________________________________________
Student’s Name(s):
_________________________________________ _________________________________________
List any known absences for fall and spring semester classes, rehearsals, tech weeks, and other events: __________________________________________________________________________
Attitude Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
I will not complain about the part I am given because I understand there are no small parts.
I agree to save the drama for the stage and not create unnecessary conflict as it affects the entire production.
I understand that it is NEVER appropriate to make remarks to cast members or contact a director about a casting decision and will adhere to this professional guideline.
I will trust the directors, as they see the big picture and are doing what’s best for the show. I will not backstage direct. If I have a suggestion or problem, I will make an appointment outside of class/ rehearsal to talk to the director.
Behavior Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
I will not be on my cell phone or headphones during class or rehearsals.
I will adhere to the ECCHO dress code and will only wear clothes that are in dress code.
I will not eat in class, backstage, on the stage, or in dressing rooms.
I will not touch anyone else’s props, costumes, or personal belongings.
I will double check that I have all of my props and costumes where they need to be before, during, and after rehearsals and performances, and will treat them carefully.
If I need to leave a rehearsal or performance for any reason, I will inform a director of where I need to go.
Preparation Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
I will know my lines and songs on time as it holds everyone else up if I am struggling with lines. (If we are blocking a scene, you are expected to know those lines when that scene is blocked.)
I will arrive having eaten a snack or a meal before rehearsal starts if needed. I will bring a water bottle for myself to each rehearsal.
I will arrive before warm ups start for every class, rehearsal, and performance. (Being on time is late, arrive at least 5 minutes before rehearsal starts and call time.)
I will bring my script to every rehearsal.
I will come prepared with water, script, pencil, and ECCHO appropriate clothes that I can move in for rehearsal.
When receiving notes, I will take notes whenever I receive a personal note from my directors.
I understand that I am expected to write all of my blocking in my script. I understand that the stage manager will periodically check script blocking.
Attendance Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
I understand that I am committing to be present and on time for every class and every rehearsal I am called to.
I understand that if I am cast in a main role for the spring show I must be available for Thursday rehearsals from 10am-12pm during the spring semester.
I understand that the last week before opening night will have more rehearsals and will clear my schedule to make sure I am at these important rehearsals.
I will notify my director by email if I am not able to be at rehearsal at least two weeks in advance. Exception will be made as needed for illness and emergencies.
I understand that any unexcused absences at rehearsals are grounds for replacement or removal from the production.
I understand that if I miss three rehearsals, I will be replaced.
I understand that it is never acceptable to miss a dress or technical rehearsal.
I understand that the directors reserve the right to add or reschedule extra rehearsals for the good of the show if necessary. I understand that the only people allowed in the rehearsal are the cast and crew and parents who are assisting with the class and/ or show. As always, younger siblings are welcome to accompany parents when needed.
Performance Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
For performances, I will arrive prior to the scheduled call time to get in hair, makeup, and costume.
I will not eat in my costume.
I understand that unless otherwise stated food will not be provided and I will arrive having eaten a snack or a meal before a performance starts.
I will be waiting in the wings during the show and not wander around to the dressing rooms or bathrooms unless I check in with a stage manager.
I will not “break the magic” of live performances by being visible to or interacting with audience members before or during a show. I will stay backstage when instructed, especially once venue doors have opened to the public and during intermission.
I will stay in character whenever I am on stage and will not break character.
Required Materials Agreement:
By agreeing below, I acknowledge the following:
I understand I may have to provide my own costume in part or whole. I will keep up with all of my belongings including costume pieces, character shoes, and makeup.
I understand I will have to provide my own pair of black character shoes. I will make sure that I will put my name on the inside of my shoes.
I understand that I will have to purchase my own makeup kit. I will make sure I put my name on this and not lose it or leave it in class or dressing rooms. (If you already have stage makeup, you can use the stage makeup that you already have.) Ben Nye is a reputable source for a stage makeup kit.
Do you agree with all sections of this production contract? ____________________________
Student’s signed and printed name(s) and date: _________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Parent’s signed and printed name and date: _____________________________________________
ECCHO Fine Arts Media Release Form
Student name(s): _______________________________________________________________________
Fine Arts Program(s) Participating in: _________________________________________________
I hereby grant permission for video recordings and photographs to be taken of my student. I understand that the recordings and images collected will be used but not limited to social media platforms, photography, and videography. I authorize Ellis County Christian Homeschool Organization (ECCHO) to use my student’s image on its websites and/or in printed promotional materials without further consideration and I acknowledge ECCHO’s right to treat the media at its discretion. I also acknowledge that ECCHO may choose not to use my student’s image at this time, but may do so at its own discretion at a later date. I understand that once my student’s image is posted or used on ECCHO’s website or similar platforms, the image could possibly be downloaded by a third party. I agree that I will not hold ECCHO responsible for any harm that may arise from such unauthorized reproduction.
Parent/Guardian Name: (Please Print) _______________________________________________
Signature: _________________________________________________________________________
Date: _____________________________________________________________________________
Download the ECCHO Fine Arts Handbook as a PDF to print/return here.