FAQs
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RHC Mission and Aim |
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MissionOur mission is to create an affirming and secular homeschool community prioritizing the unique needs of neurodivergent, LGBTQIA+, and adolescent learners, embracing their diverse identities, and focusing on safety and acceptance. Members are empowered to organize a variety of academic and social experiences that meet the needs and interests of the learners, enriching their journey toward adulthood. AimRHC aims to provide space and opportunities for its members to develop facilitated group learning and social activities, coordinate field trips, enrichment programs and special events, and support class facilitators in fostering affirming, secular education.
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What does it mean to be secular? |
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Being secular means that RHC functions without religious bias or influence. Our values emphasize fostering a learning environment that respects diversity, promotes understanding, aligns with current scientific advancements, and is dedicated to cultural competence. |
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Can I drop-off my learner? |
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What about for teens? |
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How Do Classes Work at RHC? |
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Here’s an overview of how we approach education: How do classes get developed? What types of classes are offered?
What is the cohort structure?
This structure helps create learning opportunities that match children’s developmental phases while encouraging collaboration among learners of different ages and abilities. How Do High School Classes Work?High school courses often blend home study with in-person sessions that emphasize labs, group activities, and discussions to enhance understanding of the material. As a homeschooling parent, you will support your child's studies on the days they are not at RHC. Grades and transcripts are ultimately at the discretion of parents and caregivers; however, they are encouraged to seek feedback from class instructors, who may provide grades for submitted assignments. Who leads the classes? Is RHC open to all homeschooling styles? |
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Can you offer accommodations for my child's learning/social needs? |
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RHC embraces and welcomes diverse learners, including those who identify as neurodivergent or disabled. However, it is important to understand that RHC does not operate as a support service and, therefore, does not employ support workers. As parents and caregivers, it is your responsibility to provide the necessary support and scaffolding to meet your children's learning, emotional, social, and sensory needs. We encourage families to openly discuss areas where additional support and accommodations might be required with class facilitators and other community members, both during class/group sessions and outside of them. |
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Where are your classes and activities typically held? |
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Prioritizing the security and privacy of our members, we reveal our location after confirming vaccination and the family's decision to move forward post-Zoom interview. For your family's planning convenience, we are situated near Maymont Park in Richmond, VA |
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What social offerings are there at RHC? |
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RHC families organize social offerings throughout the year, including informal and spontaneous meetups, field trips, festive days, and various engaging activities such as theme days, apple picking, go-carts, and putt-putt. These activities foster connections, build friendships, and create a vibrant social community for all members.
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How much does it cost to participate? |
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Family Contribution RHC has a yearly per-family membership contribution that covers the rent, insurance fees, website, and supplies. The contribution may be paid all at once or in installments. To support being accessible to families regardless of their access to financial resources, we are using an equitable payment model:
Class Fees Class facilitators set fees for classes and clubs, ranging from $25 to $350 per semester. Many class facilitators offer payment plans, sibling discounts, and their own tiered payments.
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Am I required to teach classes? |
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Families are not required to teach classes at RHC. However, we encourage families with elementary-aged children to actively participate in supporting classes by engaging in activities. Members lead most classes and clubs in the elementary cohorts, and your involvement enhances the learning experience and fosters a sense of community. While many classes in the upper cohort are provided by community partners with specialized knowledge, we still encourage class proposals from our members.
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Am I required volunteer in order to participate? |
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RHC is a volunteer-powered organization, and each family is expected to complete community service hours. We also encourage families to engage in committee work to help ensure the smooth operation of RHC. Community Service Levels: All families are encouraged to contribute to the best of their ability.
Tasks include:
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What other responsibilities do will I have as a member? |
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This is great! How do I get signed up? |
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Step 1: Complete an APPLICATION. Step 2: We'll contact you to schedule a video chat Step 3. Show proof of the initial covid vaccination, and attend an in-person meet & greet Step 4: Pay the community contribution, create your member account, and start signing up for activities!
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If you still have questions after looking through the FAQ, please use this form to reach out. |
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