McKinney Area Christian Homeschoolers provides support to North Texas homeschooling parents for their children to grow in character and knowledge through core academic pursuits and enriching activities. MArCH provides a context for parents to cooperatively share their gifts and experiences to build a community with excellence, love, and unity, bringing glory to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Vision Statement
MArCH exists for Christian homeschool families to glorify God by building relationships and cooperatively sharing our resources and experiences to equip the next generation.
Philosophy of Ministry
To promote a unified Christian environment for our members, topics involving religious discussion concerning the Word that may cause division, that focus on matters concerning doctrine, that focus on matters concerning modes of worship, or that focus on matters of other differences within the Church are discouraged.
Statement of Faith
We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired and infallible, authoritative, inerrant Word of God in its original form and constitutes complete and final revelation. No other text is equal to or greater than The Holy Bible. The Holy Bible, in its original autograph, is without error in whole and in part and cannot be added to or taken from (II Timothy 3:16, II Peter 1:19-21, Matthew 5: 17-18, Revelation 22:18-19).
We believe there is only one true God, eternally existent in three persons: Father, Son and Holy Spirit, who created all things in heaven and on Earth, including all human life (Genesis 1:1-28; 5:1-2; John 10:30. 37-38).
We believe Jesus Christ was God come in human flesh, being fully God and fully man. We believe in the deity of the Lord Jesus Christ, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His substitutionary atonement and propitiating death through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23; Luke 1:35; John 2:11, 11:25; Acts 1:11; Romans 3:25; Colossians 1:14; Hebrews 4:15. 7:25, 9:12; 1 John 2:2, 4:10; Revelation 19:11:16).
Statement of Faith (Continued)
We believe that man was created in the image of God but fell into sin, and is therefore sinful by nature and is lost, and that regeneration by the Holy Spirit is essential and an absolute necessity for his salvation (John 3:16-19; Romans 3:23; Ephesians 2:18-19; Titus 3:5-6).
We believe salvation is offered as a gift, free to the sinner. This gift must be responded to in individual faith, not trust in any personal works (Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:1-10, 2 Corinthians 5:14-21).
We believe in the continuing ministry of the Holy Spirit by whose indwelling the Christian is able to live a godly life (1 Corinthians 6:19-20; Ephesians 4:30, 5:18).
We believe in the resurrection of both the saved and the lost–they who are saved unto eternal life and they who are lost unto eternal damnation. Salvation is offered as a free gift from God, free to the sinner. This gift must be responded to in individual faith and repentance, not trusting in any personal works whatsoever, but in the sacrificial death of Jesus Christ alone. (John 5:28-29, Romans 6:23, Ephesians 2:1-10, II Corinthians 5:14-21).
We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of this unity, we believe that our joy is complete and encouraged by being like-minded and of the same attitude as that of Christ, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Each believer should look not only to self-interest, but more so to the interests of others, and should do nothing out of selfish ambition, but in humility consider others better than self (Romans 8:9, I Corinthians 12:12-13, Galatians 3:26-28, Philippians 2:2-15).
We believe that God wonderfully and immutably creates each person as male or female. These two distinct, complementary sexes reflect the image and nature of God. Rejection of one’s biological sex is a rejection of the image of God within that person (Genesis 1:26-27; Matthew 19:4).
We believe that all human life is sacred and created by God in His image. Human life is of inestimable worth in all its dimensions, including pre-born babies, the aged, the physically or mentally challenged, and every other stage or condition from conception through natural death. We are therefore called to defend, protect, and value all human life (Psalms 139; Luke 12:6-7).
Statement of Faith (Continued)
We believe the term “marriage” has only one meaning: the uniting of one man and one woman in a single, exclusive union, as delineated in Scripture. We believe that marriage between one man and one woman, for life, uniquely reflects Christ’s relationship with His bride, the redeemed people of God. We believe that God intends sexual intimacy to occur only between a man and a woman who are married to each other. We believe that God has commanded that no intimate sexual activity be engaged in outside of a marriage between a man and a woman (Genesis 2:18-25; Ephesians 5:21-33; 1 Corinthians 6:18; 7:2-5; Hebrews 13:4). We believe that any form of sexual immorality (including adultery, cohabitation, fornication, homosexual behavior, bisexual conduct, bestiality, incest, or use of pornography) is sinful and offensive to God (Matthew 15:18-20; 1 Corinthians 6:9-10).
We believe children are given by God as a stewardship to the parent and not the state and that parents have the wherewithal and authority to teach and educate their own children (Proverbs 22:6; Deuteronomy 6:6-7; Ephesians 6:4, Malachi 2:15, Psalms 127 3-5).
We believe all men are created equal, regardless of race, nationality or ethnic origin (Romans 2:11, Acts 10:34-35, James 2:1-4, Galatians 3: 26-29).
We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 12:12-13; Galatians 3:26-28).
Affirmation of the Statement of Faith
Purpose. The purpose of the membership Statement of Faith is to state the governing principles by which MArCH operates.
Updating. The Statement of Faith may be updated by a ⅔ majority vote of the Board. The changes will take effect starting after the next Annual General Membership Meeting
Definitions of Affirmation and Acknowledgement. All members, including Board and Committee members must affirm or acknowledge the Statement of Faith on a continuing and ongoing basis. The primary homeschooling member (e.g., primary legal guardian or extended family member) and all member instructors in MArCH-sponsored programs must affirm the Statement of Faith.
Affirmation of Entire Statement of Faith:
To affirm to show or express a strong belief in the entire Statement of Faith. Personal affirmation of the entire Statement of Faith is declared on the Membership Application.
Acknowledgement of Entire Statement of Faith:
To acknowledge: to recognize the rights, authority, or status of the entire Statement of Faith, to understand that the beliefs in the Statement of Faith are the guiding principles of MArCH without affirming thereof. Personal acknowledgement of the entire Statement of Faith is declared on the Membership Application.
Goals of MArCH
First and foremost, to glorify God and to pursue godly character.
To provide support, encouragement, enrichment, and fellowship for member families.
To provide positive social opportunities for member families.
To provide opportunities for our members through our various programs including, but not limited to: Activities, Co-op, and Drama Productions.
To provide eligible high school juniors with a Junior Year Experience (Year of Service) and high school seniors with a Senior Year Experience (Year of Honor), including a variety of activities which culminates in a formal graduation ceremony.
To provide students with student organization opportunities, such as National Homeschool Honor Society and Green Cord volunteer
The Membership Process
Membership Process Overview. A person becomes a member of MArCH by the following process:
Complete a Membership Application Online, including:
Complete a Background Request
Affirm or Acknowledge and Agree to abide by the Statement of Faith
Agree to abide by the MArCH Bylaws and policies
Agree to abide by the MArCH Dress Code
Complete the MArCH Waiver and Release of Liability
Submit Spiritual and Personal References
Pay MArCH Annual Dues
Once the Application is Received:
Membership Director will review the application for completeness and eligibility and ensure the potential member agrees to abide by the MArCH Bylaws
Membership Director may follow up with more questions
Membership Director may consult additional Board members
Potential Member is notified of decision
MArCH Membership Dues
Annual membership in MArCH follows the fiscal year (June 1st to May 31st). The dollar amount of annual dues for family membership (one membership dues per family) is determined each year by the general membership at the Annual General Membership Meeting. In the event that annual dues are not determined at the annual general membership meeting, the Board may set the annual dues not to exceed 20% of the previous year’s annual dues. The Board may determine a policy for prorated or discounted annual dues for new member families joining after the beginning of the membership year. The effective date of membership for a member is the date the member’s payment is received by MArCH. No member delinquent in payment of dues shall be eligible to vote or to enjoy any of the other privileges or benefits of membership. Any member who finds the payment of membership dues to be a financial hardship may petition the Board for a waiver of dues. Upon approval by the Board, the membership dues shall be waived for the year, and the member shall be eligible to receive the full rights and privileges of membership. The Membership Director shall notify the member within a timely manner of the decision.
Dress Code
Purpose: The purpose of the MArCH dress code is to uphold respect for the Lord, ourselves, and others by dressing appropriately (Romans 12:1-2). The dress code applies to all MArCH members.
Updating: The Dress Code may be updated by a ⅔ majority vote of the Board. The changes will take effect after the next Annual General Meeting (see Article V).
Dress Code
ALL shorts for both males and females must be at least fingertip length when arms arefully extended at the sides of legs. This also includes shorts worn in athletic classes.
No bra straps or other undergarments visible through or outside outerwear.
No form-fitting shirts, skirts, or dresses.
No PE/gym/dance clothing worn outside of PE/gym/dance classes.
Skirts and dresses may be no shorter than 3” above the knee.
No offensive clothing, including offensive wording.
Only females may wear dresses or skirts.
No undershirts worn as outerwear. Males must have sleeves on their shirts.
When wearing leggings/yoga pants/jeggings, tops/dresses must be no shorter thanfingertip length when arms are fully extended at the sides of legs.
Appropriate clothing must be worn for gymnastics and PE classes (shorts underdresses).
No clothing that exposes the midriff.
No wheeled shoes. Wheels will be taken if they are being used.
No halter or strapless tops (straps must be at least three fingers wide).
No facial piercings other than a tiny nose stud or hoop. No gauges.
No loose or low-cut tops.
WATER ACTIVITIES (such as splash pads and pool parties) Exercise modesty in choice of swimwear and activewear (no bikinis or speedos).
Biblical Conflict Resolution Process
Biblical Conflict Resolution Process – The preferred process for the resolution of any and all conflicts arising within the context of the MArCH organization should follow the principles laid out in Matthew 18:15-17. The Board should be made aware of any conflict that requires conflict resolution.Steps to be followed in the order listed below.Those involved in the resolution process may/will ask if these steps have been followed in order. Members in conflict are expected to be active participants in the process of resolution. All parties involved proceed with confidentiality throughout the process.
Biblical Conflict Resolution Process
First Step- Pray. If one MArCH member has a disagreement with another MArCH member, the member should go to the person with whom he or she has a disagreement and explain the issue, believing it can and will be resolved. Restoration of the relationship is the goal. If the MArCH member has a disagreement with the MArCH organization or committee thereof, the member should go to a Board Officer or a Committee member and explain the issue.
Second Step- Pray. If the issue is not resolved the parties should meet again in the accompaniment of one or two believers, in order to encourage repentance and restoration, and to establish a witness of what takes place between the two original individuals with restoration of the relationship as the goal. If the issue involves the MArCH organization or the committee thereof, the involved parties should meet in the presence of at least three representatives of the Board, who can resolve the issue or consult additional Board members before resolving the issues.
Third Step- Pray.If the issue does not involve the MArCH organization or a committee thereof and this issue has not been resolved, the parties agree to mediation by a representative of the Board with restoration of the relationship as the goal.
Fourth Step- Pray.If the issue still has not been resolved after mediation by a representative of the Board, then the parties involved shall present their understanding of the issue to at least three representatives of the Board. Both parties will agree to abide by the representatives’ decision.
Disciplinary and Arbitration Policy
The MArCH disciplinary policy is to help ensure that members and students understand the consequences of not following the expectations of the MArCH organization, programs, and events sponsored by MArCH.
Each MArCH program and/or event may have its own policy based on the specific needs of its program or event. The program or event’s disciplinary policy and any changes to the policy must be a part of their Board-approved Member Handbook. These policies remain at the individual program or event level. The Director over the program or event should keep the Board informed of any situations they are working. Each program or event should make the members and students aware of the disciplinary policy prior to the program or event.
Board-Level Discipline
If a violation goes to the Board, they will either choose to dismiss the violation or affirm the program or event’s discipline and assign the violator one of the following types of discipline:
Probation/Suspension/Expulsion
If a member or child has been found in violation of a principle, policy, or process of MArCH, they may be placed on probation/suspension/expulsion.
The Board must vote to place a member or a child on probation/suspension/expulsion with a 2/3 vote.
Under Probation the member or child is still able to attend MArCH programs or events. Under Suspension or Expulsion the member or child is NOT allowed to attend MArCH programs or events.
The incident and Board decision is documented.
All parties involved will be advised about the details pertaining to their probation/suspension/expulsion.
Arbitration Process
Appeal Decision of the Board – If a member refuses to abide by the decision of the Board outlined in Article III Section 4 or Article IX Section 3, they shall submit the conflict to binding arbitration by an agreed-upon Christian Arbitrator. The member requesting arbitration is responsible for all fees incurred (the member’s and MArCH’s) unless the arbitrator overturns MArCH’s decision, in which case MArCH will be responsible for all fees (theirs and the member’s).
Potential Member Legal Action Against MArCH – Except as provided by law members may seek legal remedy against MArCH only through arbitration. Instead, they shall submit the conflict to binding arbitration by an agreed-upon Christian Arbitrator. The member requesting arbitration is responsible for all fees incurred (the member’s and MArCH’s) unless the arbitrator finds MArCH at fault, in which case MArCH will be responsible for all fees (the member’s and MArCH’s).
Potential MArCH Legal Action Against Member – Except as provided by law MArCH may seek legal remedy against a member only through arbitration. Instead, they shall submit the conflict to binding arbitration by an agreed-upon Christian Arbitrator. MArCH is responsible for all fees incurred (the member’s and MArCH’s) unless the arbitrator finds the member at fault, in which case the member will be responsible for all fees (the member’s and MArCH’s).
External Communications Policy
Purpose: The purpose of MArCH’s External Communications Policy (the ECP) is to ensure that MArCH provides a consistent image and message to its members, potential members, the media, and the general public. To safeguard consistency in communication of MArCH’s principle, policy, or process, this section contains guidelines for ensuring that all external communication aspects uphold standards of Christian character and good behavior. Adherence to this policy is required of all members of MArCH.
Definition of External Communications: External communications are defined as communications that are distributed to and/or viewed by current MArCH members, potential members, the media, and/or the general public in a public forum. This communication includes, but is not limited to, MArCH websites, social networking sites, (i.e., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc.), association-wide emails, groups (i.e., Yahoo groups, Google groups, etc.), message boards and forums, blogs, podcasts/webcasts, public text messaging (i.e., Twitter), newsletters, news releases, flyers, brochures, advertisements, billboards, posters, association forums, association letterhead, business cards, and promotional items.
Members and External Communications: The Board Communications Director and/or assigned Board Member shall serve as administrators/editors for the external communications. These two Board Officers shall administer all external communication utilized by MArCH members or MArCH groups (i.e., committees, task forces, etc.) for the purpose of disseminating information about MArCH, its services, programs, committee efforts, members, etc. A MArCH member who wishes to contribute MArCH-specific material for viewing by other MArCH members or the general public via external communication must submit the material to the Communications Director or the IT Director. If such materials are deemed appropriate and/or necessary, they will be posted.
Violations of the ECP: MArCH members and their children may not use social media or other public communication outlets in a way that slanders, demeans, or otherwise causes those who receive that communication to question the good character of MArCH or its members. Violation of this policy will cause a member to be disciplined in the same manner as he or she would have been disciplined had the violation occurred during an official MArCH-sponsored program or event.
MArCH Logo
Use: The MArCH logo may not be used in external communication without written permission from MArCH. If a member wishes to use the MArCH logo in external communications that he or she administers (i.e., business cards, advertisements, MArCH websites, etc.), written permission must be obtained from the MArCH Communications Director or the IT Director, at which time said Director will also provide the approved logo file to be used.
MArCH Board Positions
President: The President serves the Board by ensuring the vision of the Board is in line with MArCH’s purpose, goals, and bylaws. The President ensures that the Board Officers have what they need to accomplish their approved goals set out by the Board. The President notifies the Board Officers of all scheduled meetings and prepares an agenda for those meetings. The President presides at all MArCH Board Meetings. The President moderates MArCH Board meetings and participates in voting. The President performs all such other duties as usually pertain to his or her office and as provided otherwise herein. The President or his or her representative has the right to participate as a non-voting member of any Committee.
Vice President: The Vice President assists the President in carrying out his or her duties and performs such tasks as the President may assign. The Vice President performs the duties of the President in his or her absence or at the President’s request. The Vice President assists the President in ensuring that Board Offices are carried out with a Christ-centered focus and aids in Conflict Resolution. The Vice President has the responsibility of organizing Board participation in any Committees. The Vice President or his or her representative has the right to participate as a non-voting member of any Committee.
Secretary: The Secretary may be a stand-alone or rotating Board Officer position that can be added to any Officer position other than President with a 2/3 vote. The Secretary maintains and retains the books and papers of MArCH, except for the Treasurer’s books of account. The Secretary records and keeps the minutes of all meetings of the Board. The Secretary ensures new Board members have signed all documents to join the Board and keeps copies in the records. The Secretary prepares minutes within approximately one week of any Board meeting, and will send them to the Board upon completion of the minutes. The minutes are confidential, and should not be shared with those outside the board unless approved by 2/3 majority of the Board.
Treasurer: The Treasurer is in charge of all funds and places all monies in a bank or banks as approved by the Board. The Treasurer is responsible to promptly deposit checks made payable to MArCH. The Treasurer oversees all MArCH committees and/or program treasurers, providing financial accountability. The Treasurer provides to the MArCH accountant an account of all transactions and any supporting documents. The Treasurer presents an updated financial report at each Board meeting. The Treasurer also presents an Annual Report to the members at MArCH’s Annual General Membership Meeting.
Activities Director: The Activities Director is responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of MArCH member activities. General duties of the Activities Director include communicating to MArCH members regarding field trips and other events, overseeing payments for events, and functioning as the MArCH contact person with outside venues. The goal of MArCH Activities is to build community. The expectation is to provide regular monthly opportunities for our community to gather.
Communications Director: The Communications Director oversees and moderates all communication platforms utilized by MArCH. Communication avenues include, but are not limited to, the MArCH website content, social media, Google Classroom/Groups, and emails. The Communications Director is integral in developing and maintaining community within our organization. The Communication Director oversees communication by MArCH members on MArCH platforms, including breaches of any communications policies adopted by the Board.
Co-op Director: The Co-op Director is responsible for oversight and organization of all areas relating to MArCH’s Co-op, working with a Co-op Committee. The responsibilities of the Co-op Director cover items including, but not limited to, coordinating class scheduling, functioning as the MArCH liaison with the host church for Co-op, and Chair of the Committee. Maintaining a robust high school program is an important focus. It is preferred that the Co-op Director has served on the Co-op Committee for at least one year prior.
Graduation Director: The Graduation Director is responsible for oversight and organization of all areas relating to MArCH’s Senior Year of Experience Program. The responsibilities of the Graduation Director cover items including, but not limited to, Chair of the Senior Committee, organizing Junior/Senior Activities and the Senior Graduation Ceremony. It is preferred for the Graduation Director to have served on the Senior Committee for at least one year prior.
Information Technology Director: The Information Technology (IT) Director is responsible for overseeing and managing all MArCH information technology, including the MArCH website (in tandem with the Communications Director), any organization forums, email lists, registration systems, etc. The IT Director supports the other members of the Board and Committees to do their role effectively with needed information technology duties.
Membership Director: The Membership Director will function as the interface between MArCH members and the organization. General duties of the Membership Director include communicating with potential members of MArCH regarding membership, processing all membership forms and annual dues, and maintaining all membership records. The MArCH Membership Director is to review and ensure the applicants applying for membership to MArCH meet the eligibility requirements.
