BYLAWS
3-17-03
Organizational Structure
CHE is a non-registered, non-profit association. It is governed by a Board of Directors that is representative of, and elected by, the general membership. The continuation of CHE is dependent upon the quality and involvement of its leadership and members.
Section I The Board
1.1 Members
CHE and its affairs will be governed by a board consisting of the proposed following members: Chairperson, Co-Chairperson, Past Chair (the previous year's Chairperson for the purpose of continuity), Secretary, Treasurer, and Care Group/New Member Liaison. At their discretion, the board may develop additional board positions, to be nominated and elected by the membership. If there are no nominees for a position, the board may petition a volunteer to be voted on by the membership. The board may also reduce the number of officers with the approval of the membership. At no time, however, shall the board of CHE have fewer than three officers: Chairperson, Co-Chairperson, and Secretary/Treasurer. Each board member has one vote.
The board works together, in submission to God and one another, to maintain CHEs purposes and integrity. The Board of Directors plans, approves and oversees the various activities, meetings, Care groups and CHE events. The Board also evaluates CHE's plans and policies annually, appealing to the Lord for His direction and wisdom and to the membership for their input.
1.2 Qualifications for leadership:
CHE seeks leadership that will uphold the Statement of Faith that we profess and set a Christ-like example in conduct for all its members. Those serving on the Board or in volunteer leadership positions should be active members of CHE, upholding the CHE Constitution and Bylaws, attending scheduled meetings regularly and having at least one year of homeschool experience. Additionally, they should demonstrate leadership skills and possess (or be willing to learn) any technical skills necessary for their position.
The position of Chairperson shall be filled by a returning board member. If no returning board member is able to serve as Chairperson, a current CHE member of at least 1 year may serve.
The position of Past Chairperson shall be filled by the previous year's Chairperson, and may serve in an additional board capacity if so elected.
1.3 Board Members' Duties:
1.3a Chairperson: The Chairperson shall be responsible to provide leadership and direction within the organization, set the agenda and preside over all meetings. The Chairperson will oversee that all of CHE's group activities comply with the CHE Constitution and Bylaws.
1.3b Co-Chairperson: The Co-Chairperson shall assist with the Chairperson's duties and shall preside over any meetings where the Chairperson is absent. The Co-Chairperson shall assist leadership by helping to administrate committees or events as directed.
1.3c Secretary: The Secretary shall send out any official CHE correspondence. The Secretary will record and keep attendance and minutes of all meetings. The Secretary will maintain the CHE directory.
1.3d Treasurer: The treasurer shall keep and maintain all financial records.
1.4 Nominations and Elections
Nominations for new board members must be presented to the Co-Chairperson, in writing, after January 1 and prior to March 1. Simple majority vote of those present and/or those voting by mail will determine election outcomes. The transfer of leadership will occur at the close of a board meeting to be held for that purpose, as soon as possible following the March election meeting.
1.5 Term of office
Term length for board members shall be one year per election, with no one serving more than five consecutive years on the board. Board members who have served five consecutive years may be re-elected following a one year sabbatical. Should a board member finish their fifth year of service while in the position of Chairperson, that person may serve one additional year as Past Chair.
1.6 Board vacancy
If there is an unexpected vacancy on the board prior to January 1, the membership shall elect a new Board member at the next general meeting following an announcement of the vacancy. Should a vacancy occur after January 1, the Board may, at their discretion, appoint an interim board member to serve until March elections.
1.7 Board quorum
The board will meet quarterly or more as they deem necessary. If the board consists of only three members, all members must be present to constitute a quorum. If the board consists of more than three, 75% attendance will constitute a quorum. A simple majority will carry or defeat a motion.
1.8 Board meetings
Members of CHE may attend all board meetings. Regular meeting dates will be scheduled and announced. It is the responsibility of the member of confirm date, place and time of meeting. Persons wishing to formally address the board shall notify the Chairperson in advance, in order for inclusion on the agenda. Board meeting agendas and minutes will be made available upon request. The board reserves the right to call a closed session to discuss membership noncompliance.
Section II Membership
2.1 Qualifications
Cornerstone exists for Christian homeschooling families who are committed to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and are willing to volunteer and give of themselves in a way that benefits the whole. Cornerstone is NOT merely an organization for supplying homeschool activities and events. Therefore, applicants are strongly advised not to apply unless they FULLY embrace the CHE Statement of Faith and Membership Agreement, which have been voted on and approved by the membership. This is demonstrated by signing the Membership Agreement.
2.2 Rights and Benefits
Members of CHE will receive:
committees
2.3 Responsibilities
Members are expected to:
2.4 Revocation of Membership
Membership may be revoked for behavior inconsistent with the CHE Constitution and Bylaws and/or the Membership Agreement. Revocation of membership requires the following consecutive steps:
1. A notice from the board advising how to comply with membership standards and a stated period of time by which to demonstrate their compliance;
2. A notice of when a vote of the board will take place regarding their membership. Any member whose membership is under review has the right to address the board before the vote takes place.
3. Membership may then be revoked by a 2/3 vote of the board.
Section III Finances
All of CHE's financial affairs will be executed by the Treasurer, administered by the Chairperson, and reviewed at each board meeting by the board.
3.1 Membership Dues
The Board will make a yearly assessment of dues needed and will make a recommendation to the membership.
The Board may make special consideration for those who cannot pay for valid reasons, and those serving in leadership positions.
Membership dues are non-refundable.
3.2 Budget
The proposed budget will be presented and voted on by the membership at the fall business meeting.
Section IV Other
4.1 Special Committees and Activities:
Special committees can be formed by the board. All of CHE's activities, field trips, and co-op classes will comply with the CHE Constitution and Bylaws.
Section V Amendment of Bylaws
These Bylaws may be amended by submitting an amendment proposal, in writing, to the board. Proposed amendments must comply with our Constitution. If constitutionally acceptable, the amendment shall pass upon majority vote of the members present and voting at the next general meeting.
CHE is not a legal entity and cannot sue or be sued.