SVHE Guidelines for use of e-mail (Approved 1-22-07 by Advisory Council)
 

Who we are:

Smoky Valley Home Educators is a home school support group composed of over 60 families who meet regularly for education and encouragement of our parent-teachers.  SVHE meets on the fourth Monday of each month from August through May (except December).

The students and parents also meet often to participate in group educational and social activities such as field trips, 4-H clubs, a variety of sports, music and academic endeavors.

What we believe:

Statement of Purpose: Smoky Valley Home Educators is a support group and is organized for the purpose of encouraging families who have chosen to provide a Christ-centered education for their children at home.

We, as parents, have joined together to promote stronger families, raise Godly children to stand against the world's standards, and encourage quality education for our children through moral support, friendship, and planned activities.  We, as Christian parents, believe that we have a Biblical responsibility to do so according to the inspired Word of God as written in the Scriptures: Deut. 6:6-7, Prov. 22:6, 2 Tim. 3:16-17, Eph. 6:1-4, Isa. 54:13, 2 Tim. 2:15, Josh. 24:14 and 1 Cor. 14:33.

Bylaws:

SVHE is organized around a set of bylaws which govern our group.  Here is a PDF file of the SVHE bylaws and amendments: SVHE Bylaws (revised 1-22-07)  Amendments

Affiliations:

SVHE is affiliated with the statewide Christian Homeschool organization CHECK.  Being a member of SVHE means being a member of CHECK and qualifies you for a discount for membership in HSLDA, the legal defense organization.

How many members do you have? Our paid membership typically ranges from 40 – 60 families.

What are the advantages of becoming a member?  Members receive the newsletter to stay informed on local, state and national home school activities, may check out items from the library, have votes in how the group is operated, may hold leadership positions in the group, and receive discounts on some group activities.  Most of all your membership helps others by supporting group activities which require funds (programs, speakers, play day, etc.).

Do I have to join the group in order to homeschool?  No.  Homeschoolers are typically a fairly independent group and there is no requirement for group membership in order to homeschool.  However, the benefits of the support group are great and we strongly urge you to join us if you wish to participate in our many activities.  Leaders are asked to be members of SVHE and to agree with the statement of purpose.

What activities occur in a typical year? Here is a partial list: July or August: Ice Cream Social, monthly parent meetings from August though April which consist of business meetings and an educational program, Christmas Craft Party for the children, February Children’s Night, group graduation in May, Teen Banquet, winter and spring musical programs, a locally-sponsored statewide vocal festival, Play Day (Field Day) in June, Science labs, and various field trips as needed and planned and led by parents.  

How do I join SVHE? Just print out this PDF application form and bring it to the next meeting with your dues, or contact us for the current treasurer's address

What is CHECK? CHECK is a Kansas-wide consortium of homeschool support group representatives who meet regularly to stay abreast of legislative issues and to provide support for its members.

Where do I find more information about homeschooling?  Here is some helpful information or check the website www.kansashomeschool.org.