When can I join SHINE?
Applications for general membership can be accepted prior to the start of each semester. Membership paperwork is good for one year and needs to be renewed annually. Membership fees are paid each semester, $10 per semester. Information about membership eligibility can be found under the membership page.
Is SHINE a co-op?
No, SHINE is not a co-op. SHINE is a support group which varies slightly from a co-op. We do offer weekly learning experiences, however, mothers are not required to teach a class or serve in a certain function for their child/children to participate. We may ask moms to sign up to help with administration functions for one 45 minute period per week. Although a few core curriculum subjects may be taught, SHINE does not give grades or grade a child's work. The classes we offer are electives or enrichment to accompany your homeschooling experience.
What do mothers do during SHINE's weekly classes?
Mothers are required to be on-site during weekly classes. Arrangements must be made with another adult if a mother is unable to be on-site. Mothers are asked to rotate through the classes with their younger children if their children require extra help with activities or discipline. Mothers also enjoy a sweet time of fellowship with other mothers during SHINE. Please reserve these times of fellowship outside of the classroom setting. Instructors have a difficult time teaching over moms' talking.
What do younger siblings do during SHINE classes?
Younger siblings may rotate with their mothers and older siblings through their classes and participate as their age and the specific activity allows. Younger siblings may play outside on the playground or in designated rooms with maternal supervision. There is no babysitting available for children under 4. Please be respectful of the facility and the employees there as regular business continues while we are at SHINE. The leadership team encourages cooperative arrangements between families with small children. Moms are encouraged to take turns caring for children in each other's homes and coming to SHINE to be with older children.
How many classes can we take?
You may pick whichever classes fit your family. There are no minimum requirements or maximum requirements. Class selection is based on availability. You do not have to fill each time slot with a class selection. Children can choose to take a break and work on school work or even serve in a class with younger children.
How do we enroll in classes?
The enrollment date for current members and prospective members will be posted on the blog. Enrollment is completed online through the blog site. Prospective members may enroll at the designated time prior to their application being accepted for membership. Children may not attend class until the entire application is completed and approved and parents have attended the annual orientation meeting. SHINE leadership reserves the right to accept or reject any application. Applications can be obtained from SHINE leadership at shinesupportgroup@gmail.com or on this website under membership application.
What is meant by "conversion experience"on the membership application?
A conversion experience refers to the time in your life in which you acknowledged your sin and desperate need for a savior and accepted Jesus Christ and His atoning death on the cross on your behalf. It describes your life before you accepted Jesus' grace and mercy and how your life changed after understanding the truth of who Jesus is.
Why do you require a written conversion experience from both parents for membership?
We call ourselves a Christian Support Group but never want to just assume that every parent has come to the knowledge and understanding of who Jesus is. We want to know for sure that each parent has had the opportunity to hear the gospel and accept the free gift of salvation that God offers through Jesus His son. We want to rid ourselves of the idea that traditions, rituals and good works make us fit to stand before a holy God. If you are unsure of what it means to be a Christian and have the assurance of the salvation that God offers through His son, Jesus, we want to share the good news with you!
How are classes divided?
As enrollment begins we use an age range to determine the appropriate class. However, as enrollment ends the leadership looks at the ages and number of children enrolled and developmental level to determine final class placement. That said, if there is a large number of a certain age of children, the age ranges for a specific group may need to be adjusted for the overall good of SHINE. Also, as classes start you or an instructor may recognize that your child would benefit better by being in another class. Current class divisions are as follows...
4-7
8-11
12 and up
Why are classes a whole year?
Over the past 6 years we've found it easier to plan looking at an entire year. Planing one year makes it easier administratively. We only enroll one time a year for classes that last the 24 class sessions instead of re-enrolling before the spring. When you enroll for SHINE classes, you are committing to an entire year, including the cost of the spring class. If you decide not to come back in the spring, you will still be held responsible for the cost of the spring classes. (To make it easier on families we do allow two separate payment times for the fall and spring but the enrollment is for the entire year.)
Why are some classes more expensive than others?
Classes taught by SHINE members/mothers are traditionally less expensive because the instructors are volunteering their time as a service to their children and other families. All instructors set their own prices for their class, taking in to consideration prep time, supplies etc. Classes that cost more may have an outside instructor who is skilled or degreed in a certain area. Classes that require more supplies may also have a higher class fee. Please note that SHINE teachers are not employed by SHINE but are paid directly by the SHINE families. No money for classes comes to SHINE.
When do I pay for classes?
Payment for classes is due by the second week of classes in September. Please budget accordingly between enrollment and the first day of class.
How do I pay for classes?
Each teacher will have an envelope with their name on it and student roster. Payment for each class goes in each class envelope. Pay your instructors by cash or check. Refunds may not be reimbursed depending on the time of withdraw. Reimbursements would come from each individual teacher. Please note they might use entire class fees for supplies, money may not be available for refunds.
How do I pay SHINE fees?
SHINE membership fees will be paid at the time of enrollment and be mailed to Angie Snodgrass. SHINE membership fees pay for parties, scholarships of members, leadership retreats, postage, office supplies etc. SHINE bank statements are always available at a member's request.
How do I pay facility rental fees?
The entire amount of $60 per family goes towards the facility rental. Please pay the facility fee at the time of enrollment. Checks will be mailed to Angie Snodgrass (her address will be provided in your enrollment email).
What is the purpose of Liability Insurance?
SHINE continues to grow and now has a written contract for Use of Facility with Waterloo Church of the Nazarene. SHINE will carry a separate policy to cover any catastrophic event. Each family will cover the expense of $8/person/year who will be in the building on a class day and will pay at the time of enrollment so a policy can be purchased prior to the first day of classes. Families will continue to sign a Liability Policy which states each family is responsible for replacing or repairing any damage caused to the facility by a member of their family.
