Learning Groups
- Mission, Values and Vision
- FAQ- General Questions
- FAQ- Applications
- FAQ- Community Connections
- FAQ- HCOS Scripture Memorization Challenge
- FAQ Navigating the LG Website “Participate Now” Offerings Page
- Cvent Transaction Notifications
- General CC/CC+ Information
- HCOS Learning Groups Information
- Learning Camps Information
- Learning Groups Frequently Asked Questions
- Learning Groups Resources
- Parent Homeschool Co-op Information
- Types of Learning Groups Opportunities
- Community Opportunities
- Completing HCOS Learning Groups Applications
- LG Terms and Conditions & Cancellation Fees Information
- Personal Digital Device Usage Policy
Mission, Values and Vision
Our Mission Statement:
To develop innovative, Christ-centred educational opportunities for learners to explore and embrace God's unique purpose.
Our Values:
Academic Success - engaged lifelong learners
We aim to inspire every student to become a passionate learner who reaches towards their personal best while continually seeking out opportunities to grow. Our goal is that students leave HCOS having developed the skills and tools to remain discerning lifelong learners.
Relationship - intentional supportive community
Responding to the needs of our families, we have developed a variety of opportunities for students to connect, to learn together and to build supportive community. Our teachers and staff pray for, encourage and come alongside our students and families as we partner with them in their academic journey.
Integrity - authentic Christ followers
One of the definitions of integrity is the quality or state of being complete or undivided. We believe this wholeness can only be found in Christ. Our desire for our students and, by extension their families, is to walk in the fullness of an authentic relationship with Christ within a supportive community that prays together, challenges each other and shares life together.
Flexibility - personalized learning choices
Just as every student is unique, their learning should be as well. We value creating individualized learning plans for every student that are designed to provide a flexible and tailored education, empowering and supporting parents as we partner with them. We strive to create innovative opportunities including individualized home education, any pace online courses, community building face-to-face learning groups, cross-enrolled options and much more.
Our Vision Statements:
The vision statements below outline the current and future objectives of HCOS. They are intended as a guide to support future strategic planning, by addressing what we aim to do and hope to become as a school. Each Vision Statement is focused on our relationship to or development of the following areas:
Parents
We aim to support and empower parents in their student’s Christ-centered education through frictionless access to our comprehensive network of programs, people and information.
Students
We aim to guide our students on a personalized educational journey with an array of opportunities to know and be known.
Teachers & Support Staff
We aim to inspire, equip and encourage teachers and staff to continually grow and pursue unique opportunities with consistent supportive accountability in a culture of engaged excellence.
Provincial Organizations
We aim to establish ourselves as a well respected, sought after voice in shaping education.
Other Schools
We aim to be a leading collaborative influence to improve the reputation of IOL through mutually supportive relationships rooted in informed perceptions.
Curriculum
We aim to create intuitive, accessible and meaningful curriculum that invokes transformational moments of delight, wonder and curiosity in students.
Programs
We aim to intentionally plan and provide thriving, sustainable and well-resourced programs that anticipate and meet the changing needs of our community.
FAQ- General Questions
I am an HCOS Registered Student. How does that affect my participation in LG opportunities?
As a registered homeschooler with HCOS you have access to all of our Learning Group opportunities throughout the province. HCOS homeschoolers are eligible for Heritage Enrolled Community pricing; however, in some instances such as Community Connections and some Learning Camps, HCOS Registered Homeschoolers pay the same fee as General Community Students. For more information, contact Claire Pollok.
How do I volunteer with a Learning Group?
We require all staff and volunteers working with students to have a Criminal Record Check clearance letter on file with us prior to the event/class. You can contact us at any time to get this on file; it sometimes takes a bit of time to process. Please complete the LG Volunteer CRC Information form and proceed as per the instructions that will be emailed to you.
What is the difference between Learning Camps, Community Connections and Community Connections Plus?
- Learning Camps are single day or short term activities such as a field trip or workshop.
- Community Connections are weekly half or full day opportunities throughout the school year. These multi-term classes offer a campus style environment while maintaining a home education flavour.
- Community Connections Plus classes run weekly for 30 weeks where HCOS instructors fully teach and assess that subject, reporting in Encom.
- Please visit our SOPHIE page on Types of Learning Groups Opportunities for more information
If I am not a student with Heritage. Can I participate in the Learning Group Opportunities?
Absolutely! While priority does go to Heritage Students, unless a Learning Camp is specifically noted as Heritage Community only, students from General Community schools are welcome to join us.
HCOS reviews external applications on a case-by-case basis to determine if the program is conducive to student success. Contact LG admin for further information.
Why are there different fees for Heritage Students and General Community Students?
Heritage subsidizes their students through fee reductions and with the staff required to oversee and administer Learning Groups. General Community students are not subsidized by Heritage and therefore their cost for an event is higher to reflect the actual cost of an event.
How will changes in government protocols due to the pandemic affect my LG learning opportunity?
Learning Groups closely monitors weekly bulletins communicated regarding Educational Protocols in K-12 settings and works together with the protocols of the community venues to proceed with the learning opportunities planned. If any changes in a learning opportunity are required, we will communicate directly with all involved as soon as possible and adjust or refund fees if applicable.
What will face to face LG opportunities look like during the COVID-19 Pandemic?
We invite families to visit the HCOS Family Book to review the K-12 Recovery Plan for information.
What opportunities are traditionally offered?
Please visit our Year at a Glance calendar grid for an overview of all LG offerings to date this year.
I have another question not listed here. Who can I contact?
Please send any questions and concerns regarding a Learning Group activity to lg@onlineschool.ca, noting which LG opportunity you’re inquiring about. One of our team members will be happy to assist you.
FAQ- Applications
You’ve applied for an LG event. What’s the next step?
You’ve received the automatic message indicating that we have received your application.
- For Learning Camps, this indicates acceptance to the event unless the coordinator is in touch to indicate otherwise.
- For Community Connections, please remember that this does not indicate acceptance to the event, as we may not be able to accomodate all applicants. The LG coordinator of the event will be in touch to confirm if your application is accepted.
- Please note that HCOS PO payment entries will occur in Encom prior to the event date. To pay from General Community PO, a parent will receive an invoice from HCOS to forward to their respective school. Credit card payments are processed upon submission (unless indicated otherwise).
- Mark the dates on your calendar.
- Your LG Coordinator may be in touch closer to the date with further details about the event.
- Enjoy the event!
I signed up for a Learning Group online but didn't get an email confirmation.
If you did not receive the confirmation email, it could be that you entered your email incorrectly, your application was not submitted properly, or the email was redirected to your junk mail folder. If concerned, please contact lg@onlineschool.ca.
I received the confirmation email following my application, but now I am being told it is full and we do not have a spot.
A confirmation email is automatically sent when you complete the application. Prior to acceptance all applications are reviewed manually. Priority goes to HCOS students and, where there are group challenges, we wish to make sure a student is fully supported to ensure successful participation. All these points affect when the link for a Learning Camp may be closed as full and whether an application is approved for a student to attend. We appreciate your understanding.
Why do I have to give my child's BC Services Card number on an application every time?
Unlike a school that would have a student's emergency information on file and accessible, Learning Groups are run by many different coordinators in many areas throughout the province. In case of an emergency, the coordinator needs to have information on hand should we be unable to easily reach or contact a parent.
My child has a medical alert. What information will I need to provide?
When a serious medical alert is indicated on a Learning Groups application, if a Medical Planning form has not already been provided to Learning Groups for the current school year, a Learning Groups team member will be in contact to complete a medical planning form. Depending on the nature and seriousness of the medical alert, there may be additional documents to complete as well (eg. Permission to Administer Medicine, Diabetes Support Plan, Seizure Support Plan, etc.).
Note that all documents must be on file prior to a child being dropped off at a Learning Groups event.
Why does Learning Groups need to know if my child has Learning Services or Inclusive Education Support?
Our goal is to best facilitate student success, and Learning Group applications have questions designed to support students in their participation at LG events. It is therefore important for us to be aware of any supports student may be already receiving so that we can effectively plan together for your child’s success at LG events and look at providing additional supports as needed. Additionally, when thinking about CC and CC+, classes have varying needs, and the dynamics are different than a familiar, low-key home environment.
FAQ- Community Connections
What are the main differences between the types of Community Connections?
See the LG Types of Opportunities SOPHIE page for more information
How do I sign-up for Community Connections?
All types of Community Connections are via a Learning Groups application link, separate from enrollment in the school. In any given year, returning students are first given an opportunity to apply. If space allows, students on the Waiting Pool list will be contacted and offered spots as available. Then if space remains, the application link will be posted to the HCOS Learning Groups website.
If you are not currently participating in a Community Connection and are interested in attending in the next school year, or enquiring about possibilities for the current school year, please indicate your interest via the CC Waiting Pool
If I sign-up, does that mean my child has a seat?
All LG sign-ups are applications, which are subject to review and approval from the event coordinator. There are a variety of factors involved prior to acceptance for the final class lists.
Can families apply for CC as application links are opened and make the full payment on their PO or will this have to wait until they have paid their tuition for the following year and the amount of PO funds available is determined?
Yes, as an HCOS program, families can indicate PO# payment for CC applications prior to all the PO funds being available.
How do HCOS PO# funds work with CC and CC Plus?
When students apply to attend a CC or CC+ for the upcoming year, a minimum application fee amount is collected by credit card. The HCOS PO# can then be used for the balance of the fees.
CC:
- Parents can look at their resource funding and make more than the minimum payment if desired
- HCOS PO# funds (balance) will be processed in the Fall (after the deadline)
CC+:
- When the office adds students into their CC+ Courses in Encom, the fees will automatically be deducted at that time.
Please note: If there are not enough funds in the family Encom account) to cover the balance due, the amount outstanding will be charged to the credit card on file (used in the CC/CC+ online application).
How do Grad Credits work with CC+ Courses?
For CC+ courses, Gr. 10-12 Students receive a $100 credit towards each 4 credit course they take at CC, or $50 toward each 2 credit course. The $550 CC+ course fees appear in Encom as each student is added to the class and are automatically adjusted to take into consideration the applicable grad course resource credits so that only the balance shown is what is due to be paid. Visual example of how it will appear in Encom. The balance due will be assessed to available family Encom funds or processed to the credit card used in the application.
I’ve applied for enrollment with HCOS, and I want my child to attend CC. Now what?
We appreciate your patience as your enrollment is being processed by HCOS. While you are waiting for your HCOS enrollment to be confirmed and information verified, you may visit learninggroups.ca to apply for the CC. If the application link to the CC is not available on our website, you may add your information to the CC Waiting Pool. This does not guarantee acceptance into CC but is a place to start. In the event that HCOS is not able to accommodate your child(ren) in the current school year, you may have opportunity to attend CC as a Heritage Registered student or General Community student (with the applicable fee), or you may remove your CC application by contacting lg@onlinschool.ca.
What production will Ignite Theatre or Sparks put on next?
Please check out ignitetheatre.ca for the grand reveal!
If my child wants to be involved in Ignite Theatre, what type of commitment is involved?
Ignite Theatre is a Community Connections Plus with family project-based learning on a grand scale with parent responsibilities outlined here. One parent from each family is expected to put in volunteer hours throughout the year AND during our Theatre Week which is the weekend leading into Victoria Day and that full week. Parental involvement is CRUCIAL to the success and excellence of our production. Sparks CC is our recreational performing arts track, where students in grades 2 to 7 can explore the basics of musical theatre without substantial parent volunteer responsibility.
Are cancellation options different for CCs and Longer-term Offerings?
Yes, while most Learning camps are non-refundable, CCs and some longer-term Learning Camps may have a graduated cancellation fee schedule noted in an application.
FAQ- HCOS Scripture Memorization Challenge
Which Psalms will be the focus for the Challenge?
For students wanting to learn 35 verses, the verses will be: Psalm 1, 13, 23, 57, and 150.
For students wanting to learn 70 verses, they will memorize the 35 verse selections as well as: Psalm 8, 30, 98, and 100.
For students wanting to cover 105 verses, they will memorize all of the preceding verse selections as well as: Psalm 46 and 139.
What translation should we memorize from?
This is your choice, but please choose a translation, not a paraphrase. Some recommended translations are: NIV, KJV, NKJV, NASB, and NLT.
We’ve already selected verses to memorize this year. May we use these verses for the Challenge?
Yes! Other verses may be used for the Memorization Challenge, if the student has not memorized them previously. Remember to learn the references and review consistently throughout the year so all verses can be recited in one sitting and reported in May. Hint: giving verses a title helps in recall.
My child memorizes verses in Awana and Sunday School. Can they use these verses instead of memorizing from the Psalms?
Yes! Students may use these verses towards the HCOS Memorization Challenge. Students will need to review and be able to say all of their verses in one sitting to a non-immediate family member and report it in May. Remember to work on references and review, review!
My child has learning challenges, or is in K-2 and and I feel the verses in the Psalms would be difficult for them, but would still benefit from regular exposure to God’s Word. Is there an option for that?
Yes! All students will benefit from regular exposure to God’s Word. Students with learning challenges of all types for whom the traditional “memorize and recite” method is not compatible are invited to engage in one of the suggestions on the bottom of the HCOS Memorization Challenge tracking sheet. If these are not suitable for your child, please feel free to email Jennifer at jennifer.barkman@onlineschool.ca and she will be more than happy to help brainstorm and research options. While we have tried to be as inclusive as possible with the suggestions presented, please feel free to adapt as needed. We would appreciate it if you would share the adaptations you make with us by email so that we can work to make our program increasingly inclusive.
When is the deadline to complete and report the memorization?
The deadline to complete and report the HCOS Memorization Challenge accomplishments is May 23, 2024. To be eligible for a prize, the student must say all their verses in one sitting to a non-immediate family member (grandparents/aunts/uncles qualify). More specific details regarding this will be sent in the beginning of May. Remember to keep reviewing throughout the year. References should be memorized. All verses need to be recited in one sitting and reported by the deadline.
Begin the Memorization Challenge right away and enjoy diving into God’s Word! Time spent memorizing is time invested in eternity. Two things are eternal – people and the Word. Memorizing as a family is investing in both!
If you are ready to join the HCOS Bible Memorization Challenge:
- Let your teacher know your decision to memorize and register on the Learning Groups Website
- Choose a realistic goal for the number of verses to memorize based on student ability and desire.
- Watch your email with goal/tracking sheet and encouragement and ideas for memorization once you’ve registered.
- Choose your translation – please choose a translation, not a paraphrase (NIV, KJV, NKJV, NASB, NLT are recommended).
- Start memorizing! Plan to review your verses, so that you remember them for life, and so they can all be recited at the end of the year.
FAQ Navigating the LG Website “Participate Now” Offerings Page
Learning Groups has a new website this year! All of our current offerings are listed on the “Participate Now” page and are labeled to show the status of an application. Each offering will have a label on top as seen below:
APPLICATION OPEN: Indicates that the opportunity is ready for applications. Click “Learn More” and then on “Details & Apply” to fill out an application.
APPLICATION CLOSED: Indicates that the event is full OR the deadline has passed. Click on “Learn More” and it will either indicate “Application Full” or “Application Closed” depending on the status.
COMING SOON: Indicates that we are in the process of finalizing some details for this opportunity, and that the Application will be open shortly.
Cvent Transaction Notifications
The purpose of this page is to clarify payment transaction notifications you may receive. Cvent is the external software HCOS Learning Groups uses to process event applications. Depending on the payment method selected in an LG application, or funds available via Encom or credit card, you may receive a notification email such as presented in the scenarios below.
Cvent is good in many ways but does have limitations for which it hasn’t developed an alternative yet. Cvent generates auto-payment emails using the Coordinator’s name so it seems to come from the coordinator, not the LG office.
Please refer any questions to lg@onlineschool.ca.
When the HCOS PO# is involved in the method of payment, fees are processed by the LG office according to what funds are available in the family’s Encom account . Speaking with your support teacher prior to applying for a Learning Group can help.
Insufficient Encom Funds
When there are insufficient Encom funds in the family’s account, there are two types of automatic emails that could result, as well as an invoice email.
Please note although the below scenarios denote the payment process for a CC, Learning Camp fee transaction notifications are similar.
Type 1: Payment Processed to Credit Card
If the automatic payment email says "Your payment for the Community Connections _______ yyyy-yyyy event has been successfully processed to the credit card on file", this means that Encom funds weren’t sufficient to cover the CC fees (perhaps due to charges from curriculum or online classes). When there aren't enough Encom funds, the balance is charged to the credit card that was used to pay the $50 application fee. The email is just to let you as the parent know that charge was put on your credit card.
Type 2: ‘Payment Failure’ Email Notification
If the email states ‘payment failure’, then the payment processed to the credit card used for the $50 application fee did not go through. Learning Groups will send an invoice for payment. If you do not see an invoice but have received a "Payment Failure" email, please check your junk mail.
Invoice Email
If the email states 'Please submit payment" or 'Balance Due', then the invoice shows additional amounts owing for CC which were not covered with Encom funds or credit card on file. As a parent, you can go into Encom and see the 'additional resources' section for your family; perhaps Encom funds were also used for charges for curriculum, ipad purchases or online classes. Please keep track of your curriculum or third party purchases to ensure enough funding is available to cover LG learning opportunities as there is a time lag when invoices get to the office.
To pay the invoice, click on the Cvent 'view your registration' link in the email, put in your registration confirmation number (provided in the email) and follow the prompts on each page to make the payment. You can add in a new credit card or the previous one that has funds available to process payment to.
CCs with remaining balance will be automatically charged to the credit card on file in mid- November to early- December; as noted in the application payment options.
If there are credit card changes, please contact Desada Daigle to update; otherwise payment won’t go through and an invoice will be emailed to the family. Making our email addresses safe will prevent them from getting blocked or going to the junk folder, depending on your settings. We ask families to not opt-out of receiving emails from us when registering their students for our learning opportunities in Cvent as this prevents invoices being emailed to you.
If you have further questions, please email Desada at ddaigle@onlineschool.ca.
In the Cvent application for CC, parents have the option to make payment by credit card or PO# funds. Any balance remaining, due to Encom funds being unavailable, will be charged to the credit card on file.
CC+: HCOS Enrolled Students: $550 (minus any Grad Course Credits) will be processed to the HCOS PO# when CC+ courses are added to each student in Encom. Any balance remaining, due to Encom funds being unavailable, will be charged to the credit card on file. (parent choice- I understand)
CC and CC+ course fees for Inclusive Education supported students are processed using IE funds. IE families might notice CC+ course fees in Encom at certain times of the year, but a short time later the course fees are corrected in Encom and fees processed using IE funds.
General CC/CC+ Information
Parent Handbook
You will receive a Parent Handbook from your CC coordinator at the beginning of the year. Please save this where you can refer to it regularly as it has a lot of important and useful information. Below is a sample handbook of what might be included.
Most CCs have a Parent Orientation Meeting before the first class where the coordinator will review the ethos and expectations for the classes, introduce the teachers and assistants, and field questions. We expect that at least one parent of each family attends. Please note the Scheduled Dates of Classes in your agenda/calendar and plan to attend as each class is about a week’s worth of learning in a campus school.
Instructors will be in touch with you about the following:
- What to bring with them to class (for the first day and any other time something special is needed)
- Homework or practice for the next class (to be sent within a day or two of the class and when applicable)
- How you can best contact them about missing a class, or any questions or concerns you may have
- End of term comments and summaries
Email is the primary method of communication with your Coordinator and the Instructors on-site. If your child is sick, please keep them home. If your child has symptoms caused by allergies, they are welcome to attend. Please connect with the teacher or coordinator if allergy symptoms are significant.If your child misses a class, please let their instructor AND the coordinator know ASAP and then be in touch with the instructor about what they missed. It does matter to the instructor if there is a student missing, even in larger classes!
Cancellation of Classes
If there are extreme weather conditions or a closure is declared in the local School District, classes will be cancelled. I will notify you all by email with as much notice as possible. If classes are cancelled due to extreme weather there will be no make-up class!
CC Contact Information
There will be the names, grades/subjects and email for each teacher provided.
Maintaining Campus Health Safety
Our campus will be following protocols listed by the Ministry of Education. Additional precautionary measures may be implemented such as:
- daily cleaning of high-touch surfaces
- incorporating distancing measures appropriate to the class
- staggered arrival, drop off and lunch periods
- regular hand washing routines (using hand sanitizer when sinks are unavailable)
- asking students and all those on-site who are sick to stay home
- monitoring the health of those present
Please remind your children to practice the habits listed below under ‘Reducing the Risk’ and encourage them to keep their hands to themselves.
Reducing the Risk
- Wash one’s hands frequently for at least 20 seconds using soap and hot water (it is the single most effective way of reducing the spread of infection).
- Practice other good hygiene habits: do not touch one’s face/eyes/mouth with one’s hands and cover one’s mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing (ideally with a disposable tissue or the crease of the elbow).
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched workspace surfaces.
- Maintain good general health (eat a balanced diet, get enough sleep, exercise in moderation).
- Stay home if sick.
Illness
If your child is exhibiting any level of sickness or symptoms (other than from allergies), please keep him/her at home. Recent COVID-19 measures have demonstrated the value of social responsibility in taking care of others’ health and your own.
Behaviour Expectations
While we don’t anticipate regular problems, it is good to be clear about expectations. These expectations are just a beginning. We want to be proactive in developing the kind of learning environment that grows relationships, encourages learning, and honours God. Please review this list with your children before the first class. The expectations are, naturally, quite obvious and straightforward, but still worth discussing.
Listening and Focusing:
- When a teacher or other student is talking, all others should be listening.
- When you want to say something, raise your hand.
- Do your best to refocus quickly. If you are chatting with a partner or group, if something is funny, if there is a larger discussion – enjoy and participate, but then refocus promptly.
- Enjoy your break time, but come back and refocus when called.
Distractions:
- Games or toys are reserved for break times and not during class.
- Please leave all electronics off during class (unless needed for your class).
- Save eating and drinking for snack and lunch time.
For students who ‘struggle’ to meet the expectations, this will be the standard course of action:
- For a once-off situation or infrequent situation, the teacher will talk to the student.
- For a common recurrence, the student will be sent out of the room to talk with me. If this happens, the teacher or I will inform you so we can chat about it.
- If the situation continues, then I will set a time when we will all sit down and discuss the issue in order to make a plan for the way forward. It may be that the parent is required to join their child in the class until the problem is changed or resolved.
- For a major occurrence, it will be as for #3.
I am sure that it will be a great year and that your children and their instructors will develop relationships of mutual respect.
Special Circumstances or Needs – Behavioural, Learning, Medical
On your registration you noted any health or learning needs that your child has. I will be emailing you appropriate forms to fill out in order to help us care for your child well. If there is anything else we should know about your child with regards to group learning and teaching situations, or if you learn of additional information during the school year, please email me so the instructors can be best prepared to help your child.
For IE students with EA support, if an EA is absent due to illness and a substitute is not available, please do not send the students for that day, without EA support.
Christian Worldview and Content
HCOS is a Christian DL school and therefore the majority of teachers and students involved in the Learning Groups will be Christians. There is still, however, diversity in faith and practice. Christian and Biblical content will be included in the lessons, when it is fitting and natural. In all of our teaching, learning, and communication our goal is to love and serve God and each other. In doing this, we will develop an atmosphere of respect and generosity. This will be the most important way that we incorporate our Christian faith into our classes.
Homework
Depending on your child’s age and the subject matter, most weeks the instructors will email some homework and practice options. These are aimed to reinforce what is being learned in class as well as to prepare your child for the next class or any upcoming assignments. Essentially, homework is encouraged as your child will gain so much more from their learning if it is completed.
If you have any concerns about your child’s learning and understanding in the class, please be in touch with the instructor quickly and regularly.
Fire, Earthquake and Lockdown Drills
We will have a fire drill a few times through the year, as well as earthquake drills and one lockdown drill. Some children may be averse to loud noises, so please prepare them for these drills.
What to Bring
We want every child to have a water bottle and lots of snacks as well as their lunch. They will be given regular opportunities for snack breaks. Please also bring a jacket for outdoor play. NOTE: Our classes are a nut-safe zone due to allergies.
Typical Supplies List for CC
Each week, all students should bring a labelled pencil case/box with the following labelled items:
- 3 sharpened pencils
- eraser(s)
- 12 pencil crayons
- at least 12 markers including black
- 30 cm ruler
- glue stick
- scissors
Additionally, students in grades 4 and up should also bring:
- 3 blue pens
- binder with 8 ½ x 11” lined paper and some blank paper & 4 dividers
If PE is offered: appropriate clothing and footwear (non-scuff shoes) for PE classes.
Grades 7 and up: Tablet or laptop if possible; required for older grades
Cell phones should be turned off during class time, or not sent at all.
HCOS Learning Groups Information
This page provides information and resources related to HCOS Learning Groups.
Welcome to HCOS Learning Groups!
HCOS Learning Groups are committed to offering innovative, Christ-centered educational opportunities for home learners virtually and in person, through a variety of activities offered in communities around the province. We support home educating families by actively exploring and experiencing a range of knowledge and skills while nurturing our relationships with God and with each other.
As you consider all that HCOS has to offer, including Learning Group opportunities posted to date, I encourage you to look at the family resources and information posted on our HCOS and LG website which may address questions you may have at this time and to become familiar with this SOPHIE page outlining our protocols.
Staff
Our Learning Groups Director: Operations and Learning Camps, Christine Loewen, oversees all Learning Groups programs and LG administrative and office staff. Together she collaborates with them regarding the vision and mission in directing programming, the smooth implementation of processes and procedures and also the management of risks to ensure safe participation. She manages the financial aspects of the programs and communicates with Heads of School, directors and teachers throughout the year.
Our Learning Groups Director: Community Connections, Jonathan Zuidhof assists in managing day to day administrative operations related to Learning Groups programming and offerings, including support and training for LG leadership teams, coordinators and teachers, along with oversight of special projects such as the CC curriculum project and family communication throughout the year.
Andria Lengkeek is the LG Administrator overseeing Community Connections Plus opportunities.
Christine Moline is the LG Regional Administrator of the Interior.
Lisa Franco is the LG Regional Administrator of Vancouver Island and the North with a Community Connections focus.
Tessa Arends is the LG Regional Administrator overseeing Lower Mainland East Community Connections.
Heather Davis is the LG Administrator for Learning Camps in the Interior and Overnight.
Kristin Schlamp is the LG Administrator for Learning Camps in the North, Island and Virtual.
Laura Lemon is the LG Administrator for Learning Camps in the Lower Mainland.
Together with our teachers and office team, we offer a number of group learning opportunities and courses for our students and home schooling community in a variety of locations throughout the province.
You can contact any member of the team at lg@onlineschool.ca.
To view our Office staff, please visit here.
Learning Camps Information
This page provides information beyond the HCOS Code of Conduct and Terms & Conditions page.
Face to Face Learning Camps
Expectations
- Spaces are often limited for Learning Camps. If you sign up, attendance is expected.
- Communicate any foreseeable absences in advance of a Learning Camp to allow other students to take your place.
- Arrive prior to the start time of the event. You need to check-in with your coordinator for attendance, so the event can begin on time.
- Take note of all information conveyed in the welcome email. Bring any supplies requested, and show up prepared for the day according to the uniqueness of each event.
Behavior
- When in the community, behavior at a Learning Camp is a reflection of HCOS as a school.
- Behavior, tone, and our words are important. Please refer to the Biblical attributes within our learner profile as a guide to what we are working towards, including our expectations of speech and conduct.
- Participating students and families are expected to act respectfully and conduct themselves in an appropriate manner to all involved in the HCOS LG setting.
- Learning Camps often utilize external vendors' facilities that have their own rules and policies, not directed by HCOS. Follow venue rules and policies respectfully.
Post-workshop follow-up
We appreciate you taking the time to provide feedback when requested (optional, not a requirement)
- Submitting surveys
- Creating thank you notes for the presenters
Virtual Learning Camps
Expectations
- Where an orientation session is being held, please consider this a required attendance.
- This helps ensure that participants are able to competently log in and use Zoom functions, etc. which helps the event to run smoothly.
- Please arrive 5 minutes prior to the start time of the event so that everyone can be admitted to the online room prior to the event beginning.
- Zoom etiquette
-
Refrain from adding filters (sunglasses, hats, accessories) onto faces
-
Your zoom name ID must be the participant name and should not be renamed during the online session
-
John
-
John Doe
-
Doe family
-
- Proper use of chat function.
- Should only be related to the topic of the Learning Camp.
- Always mute your microphone unless called on to speak by the presenter.
- Your camera may be on or off - it’s up to you.
-
Refrain from eating a meal or food during the Learning Camp.
-
Be aware of whether participation is per student or per screen sign-up (see our FAQ- Applications for details), this will be indicated in the application.
-
Ie.if sign-up and payment is per child, if you only sign-up one child- additional siblings should not appear on the screen or participate in any way in the zoom session.
-
-
-
- Zoom troubleshooting
- If you are experiencing a poor connection (freezing, lagging audio or choppy video), try turning your webcam off to save data. If that doesn’t work:
- If possible, use a laptop that is hard wired to your router.
- Move closer to your wifi router for a stronger signal (and better speeds).
- Try connecting with a phone or tablet using LTE - just be careful and watch data usage (See below for more tips to reduce data use).
- Connect to 5Ghz instead of 2.5Ghz (many newer routers do this automatically) - important for apartments and more densely populated areas.
- You typically need at least 15mbps down/1mbps up connection for zoom to “work”. Better internet speeds will ensure it works well (if available in your area - some remote and Northern areas unfortunately still do not have consistent access to quality high speed internet.
- Turn off the HD option in Zoom’s video settings, and turn off all filters and backgrounds.
- Generally, the less devices connected to your home network at the time you are using zoom, the better the quality of your zoom experience will be.
- Check Zoom’s website for more troubleshooting tips.
- If you are experiencing a poor connection (freezing, lagging audio or choppy video), try turning your webcam off to save data. If that doesn’t work:
Post-workshop follow-up
We appreciate you taking the time to provide feedback when requested (optional, not a requirement):
- Submitting surveys
- Creating thank you notes for the presenters
Learning Groups Frequently Asked Questions
This is a landing page that has been designed to direct you to specific FAQs regarding HCOS Learning Groups.
General Questions
Applications
Community Connections
HCOS Scripture Memorization Challenge
Learning Groups Resources
HCOS Website - LG Section
- Information on types of LG offering
- FAQ
- Pertinent information
- Communiques sent to families
Learning Groups Website
- LG Events being offered
- Can filter by:
- area and grades
- region and type
- Information and application links (for open opportunities)
- Can filter by:
- Sign up for E-Alerts to receive emails about events
Parent Homeschool Co-op Information
This page provides information on how you as a parent can organize activities with others in your community. HCOS encourages families to connect with each other in support of your children’s academic, physical, emotional and spiritual growth and development.
A homeschool Co-op is a parent initiative in which parents share their love of learning with a group of students and also share organizational and instructional responsibilities with other homeschooling parents.
Why a Homeschool Co-op?
There are many benefits to planning a homeschool Co-op:
Families should share learning samples and completed work from the Co-op to their HCOS support teacher.
How to Start a Homeschool Co-op
Homeschool Co-ops come in many different forms. It can be as simple as a few families getting together at a park for social interactions or going for bike rides, walks, hikes and group field trips. Co-ops can also be a few families meeting at home and rotating teaching responsibilities for a subject or two. Or it can involve hiring a series of professional teachers that are able to instruct a variety of subjects in a church or community centre. Homeschool Co-ops are a great way to share the work of home educating your children with a group of other like minded families.
Set the Purpose of Your Homeschool Co-op
Are you just looking for a way to socialize with other homeschool families? Do you want to create a way for students to explore electives? Do you want to meet outdoors and explore nature? Is there a specific age or grade level that you want to include? Maybe your purpose is that you need to switch off teaching days with other families so that you can work outside of the home.
The very first step in starting a homeschool Co-op is to set the purpose. Whatever your goals are for your Co-op, it is important to be clear about your purpose which will guide the rest of your start-up decisions. Being clear about your purpose will help you find and attract families to join you who share with similar goals. This can save frustration further on.
Decide on a Format
Homeschool Co-ops come in many different formats. A few questions to consider are:
- How many classes or activities do you want to offer?
- How often do you plan to meet?
- Will there be social activities, educational opportunities, or a mix of both?
In general, you want to meet often enough to fulfill your purpose and to enable friendships and connections to form.
Find Members for Your Homeschool Co-op
You need at least one other family to form a homeschool Co-op so you need to decide how you want to find members. Be clear on the purpose of the group and intended ages/grades you are looking for.
If you already have a few homeschool friends and want to form a small Co-op, it may be as simple as asking your friends if they are interested. You can also advertise on the HCOS facebook group, check out homeschooling facebook groups in your area, ask around at church with home educating families or meet other families at face to face Learning Camps and form a connection.
Find a Location for Your Homeschool Co-op
The size and purpose of your Co-op will help determine the perfect location for your group. For example, if the purpose of your homeschool Co-op is purely social you might want to choose a local park to meet at each week. Eg. park days on Mondays and/or field trips on Fridays If there is an educational component to the homeschool Co-op you may want to consider meeting indoors, such as someone’s home or a church
Larger groups can usually rent space from churches, but this normally carries a cost. Sometimes churches are happy to rent out their Sunday School classrooms during the week. If you choose to go this route be sure to ask the church a few questions before signing a contract:
- Do you need to carry separate liability insurance? (LG/HCOS does not provide this for homeschool Co-ops)
- Is there a cost? If so, will you be billed only for days you use the classroom or will you be charged a set amount each month?
- What are the usage restrictions (food, noise, messy activities, etc.)?
- Are parents required to stay on campus?
Homeschool Co-op purpose, size, and budget are important factors in selecting the right location.
Insurance Considerations
If you are running a co-op in your home, contact your insurance provider to make sure you have adequate coverage.
If choosing a location that requires liability insurance, speak with the facility manager of the location for information on how to obtain the needed insurance.
Choosing Homeschool Co-op Teachers
There are two main options in terms of Co-op teachers:
- Parents of Co-op students
- Hire a teacher or service provider
Choosing parents within the homeschool Co-op to teach is an easy choice. They are already committed to your group and are generally happy to teach a class for free, especially if their children are also attending the class. Another great option is to hire a teacher or service provider who are generally very passionate and skilled in the subjects they choose to teach. Since hiring a teacher or service provider will carry an expense, it’s important to discuss this decision with the group.
Set a Price
The price of your homeschool Co-op is directly related to the expenses.
Possible Co-op expenses include:
- Location costs (+ insurance if required)
- Teacher fees
- Supplies and materials
- Field trip fees (eg. admission fees)
You want to make sure that you are fairly sharing the costs through the homeschool Co-op. Setting a price is easy and straight-forward for small homeschool Co-ops of just a few families. It gets more complicated for a large Co-op where students are selecting different classes, so it may be best to avoid too large of a group to keep costs low (or free!). 2-3 families is a good size to start with for most Homeschool Co-ops.
Choose the Homeschool Co-op Classes
You are not limited to traditional school subjects. Feel free to get creative! If your kids are interested in learning a specific topic, there is a good chance other kids are interested too.
Some homeschool Co-ops follow selected curriculum, and others make it up as they go. Either option can work well depending on your group’s needs and learning styles. If the Co-op is teaching an academic core class like language arts, math, science, or history, they usually ask students to do some work at home and the rest in the Co-op.
Communicating with your support teacher about curriculum resources is a great way to ensure that you have a solid plan for getting your kids engaged in learning.
Agree on Homeschool Co-op Rules
Every family has different ideas about how to best run a homeschool Co-op. It is best to agree on some rules right from the beginning.
Think about:
- Can parents leave during class or do they need to stay?
- What happens if there are behavior problems?
- How much notice is needed to cancel a class?
- How will inclement weather be handled?
- Who is ultimately in charge of the Co-op?
- If there is a fee, what is the refund policy?
Thinking through some of these issues can help prevent problems in the long run.
For most Co-ops, having no fees except for field trips or basic supplies is a great option. Resources can be shared or purchased by each individual family. This keeps the Co-op experience uncomplicated. However, many successful Co-ops have run with up-front fees. It takes excellent communication and organization to set it up.
Set a Schedule
Once you have a location selected, teachers have been chosen, and classes planned, you need to set a schedule. Plan at least a semester at a time so people can make plans.
Setting the schedule for a small Co-op involves sitting down with a calendar and marking off the dates you will have Co-op classes. Note any holidays so you don’t need to reschedule those classes later.Then choose the times your Co-op will run (eg 10am - 12pm or 1pm-2pm etc). Send the dates and times to all of the homeschool families so they can plan accordingly. Finally, fill in your times with what you will be doing (eg. Group playing at jungle gym 10am - 10:30am, walk in the park 10:30-11am, Art 11am - 11:30am, Bible study 11:30am - 12pm)
Setting up the schedule for a larger Co-op is a little bit more work simply because there are more classes. To set up the schedule for a large Co-op, we recommend using google calendar. This lets teachers add their classes to the calendar. Parents can view the calendar from their computer or phone.
If one of your homeschool Co-op goals is socialization, be sure to schedule some field trips and park days too. Some field trips (eg. museums, science centres) require advance planning, so it is good to get them on the calendar early.
Types of Learning Groups Opportunities
To see a summary of our LG opportunities including Learning Camps, Year at a Glance has tabs across the bottom for virtual and all the areas, in which events are organized by city.
We invite you to review below the particulars for each type of opportunity we offer location information, as well as information on how using the waiting pool link and how to apply CC and CC+.
Learning Groups Opportunity |
Description |
Family Role |
(often 1 day short term events) |
|
|
|
|
|
Community Connection Plus (CC+)
|
|
|
Summary of differences between Learning Camps and Community Connections
- Learning Camps are single day or short term activities such as a field trip or workshop.
- Co-ops are parent Initiatives and no longer under the HCOS LG banner
- Community Connections are weekly half or full day opportunities throughout the school year. These multi-term classes offer a campus style environment while maintaining a home education flavour
Joining a Learning Group Opportunity - General information
- Find Learning Group Opportunities in email received from your support teacher, e-alert email from Learning Groups or at our Learning Groups website.
- To sign up, click on the link for the application form and complete fully to the submit form. Many events allow you to use PO funds; a credit card payment will be required as an application fee for CCs or for the full amount on lower-cost LCs.
- Prior to acceptance all applications are reviewed manually. Priority goes to HCOS students and where there are challenges in a group setting we wish to make sure a student is fully supported to ensure successful participation.
- You’ll receive the automatic message indicating that we have received your application. For Learning Camps, this indicates acceptance to the event unless the coordinator is in touch to indicate otherwise.
- Mark the dates on your calendar.
- Please note that HCOS PO payment entries will occur in Encom around the event date. To pay from General Community PO, a parent will receive an invoice from HCOS to forward to their respective school. Credit card payments are processed upon submission (unless indicated otherwise).
- Your Coordinator may be in touch closer to the date with further details about the event.
- If you are unable to attend the Learning Group opportunity, please note there are cancellation policies in effect.
- Enjoy!
Learning Camps
Learning Camps are short term group learning experiences, often with parental presence. These range from field trips, to workshops, to a short-term set of weekly classes, to overnight events. Examples include writing workshops, science experiments, field trips to the aquarium or zoo, theatre performances, robotics competitions, overnight trips to Barkerville, and SALTS.
Parents and students are encouraged to share the learning that took place during learning camps including any pictures, handouts or other relevant work with their support teacher.
To find out more and sign up, families can:
- Use information and links in emails received from your support teacher about available Learning Groups
- Go to https://learninggroups.ca/ and use the filters to find opportunities in their area
- If you are interested in a Learning Group activity and do not see it on the LG website, the event may be full. You can fill out the Learning Camp Interest Survey form and we will be in touch about future opportunities.
- Sign up for e-alerts (scroll to the bottom of this page for the e-alerts links) and receive email notification of events as they open for application
If you have any further questions, please contact the HCOS LG Regional Admin for Learning Camps,Tessa Arends
Community Connections (CC)
Students in Community Connections (CC) learn in a class setting for a half- to full-day each week over 16-24 weeks through the school year. These multi-term classes provide a campus learning environment while maintaining a home education flavour.
Certified teachers or experienced instructors guide students through varied learning experiences including hands-on, group and collaborative learning. Students learn presentation skills, complete projects, videos, experiments, participate in physical education classes and more. Activities vary depending on the subject and location. Through a combination of class work and take home assignments, students develop competencies in specific subject areas. CCs do not fully cover the content and competencies of each subject, but are an excellent blended supplement to your home learning.
Parents and students are encouraged to share the learning that occurs at Community Connections including any homework, handouts, assignments, projects, lab reports etc. that were completed with their support teacher .
CC instructors will provide information about class activities in emails, term summaries or blogs.
Parental involvement is often encouraged.
CC locations currently include: Chilliwack (K-3), Abbotsford Theatre Sparks, Vernon, Parksville, Campbell River, Powell River, Port Alberni, Sechelt (Sunshine Coast), Cowichan. Find out more here.
Community Connections Plus (CC+)
Students in Community Connections Plus (CC+) learn in a class setting for a full day on a weekly basis over a period of 30 weeks.
HCOS certified teachers provide all the instruction and assessment needed to fully cover the subject taught and complete the report card in Encom each term.
Students receive instruction to fully cover the content and competencies in 3 or 4 courses, such as Social Studies, Science, Physical and Health Education, ADST or Arts Education. Students learn presentation skills, complete projects, videos, experiments, get active and more!
As students go through the grades, homework progressively increases and is required to fully complete the subject competencies. Weekly communication from the instructors provides information about class activities.
The fee for HCOS Registered and General Community students is higher to include teacher compensation.
CC+ locations currently include: Langley, Abbotsford, Abbotsford Theatre, Abbotsford Science & Math (10), Chilliwack (Gr. 4-10), Kelowna, Prince George, Penticton, Victoria, and Nanaimo. Find out more here.
CC and CC+ Waiting Pool and Application Process
- To learn more about the locations, grades and subjects typically offered please view our calendar. We will update with the next school year's offerings once determined.
- To let a CC or CC+ coordinator know that you’d like to join, please fill out your information in our waiting pool. Depending on availability, the coordinator will be in touch about the application process. Completion of the waiting pool or application forms does not guarantee acceptance.
- To promote success we encourage students to participate in a short term Learning Camp prior to a longer term event. Learning Camp options can be found at https://learninggroups.ca.
- HCOS Inclusive Education students are welcome to apply. Acceptance will be evaluated on a case by case basis after a conversation with the support teacher and family to ensure necessary support levels are available onsite.
Application to an HCOS CC+ is a separate process in addition to enrolling at HCOS. Application links for a CC are available in April/May. First priority enrollment is offered to current students, followed by those in the waiting pool. If additional space is available a posting will be made at https://learninggroups.ca/ and the coordinator will email those in the waiting pool, normally in late-May or later.
Reporting
Reporting to Support Teacher for Learning Camps and CC
Many LG experiences, assignments, projects, and/or activities span more than one subject area. Notice and report on content/competencies outside of CC subject area i.e. social skills in group, oral presentation skills, artistic or dramatic skills, work habits in using time purposefully, etc.
Students may have been provided a term summary at CC; a few CCs have a Facebook page, a blog or send out a weekly summary email.
Reporting at CC+
The CC+ teachers are HCOS teachers who cover entire courses, teaching, evaluating and reporting on students.
Students often complete homework and submit to the CC+ teacher for evaluation.
PE courses at CC+ involve students also doing
Community Opportunities
This page is a central database of community opportunities that families might like to investigate. We are not endorsing these opportunities but rather sharing information as to possible resources available. Thank you.
Home School Martial Arts Program
Classes start Wednesday January 8th and run for 8 weeks, one day per week. Perfect for busy home school families in Surrey and Langley. To register click here.
Do you want your child to receive: Fitness / Better Focus / Self Discipline / Respect and more with our Award Winning Life Skills Curriculum? PLUS, your family will learn important self defense training while having fun taking martial arts! Our 55 minute classes are especially designed for home school students. Join Chief Master Karpiuk and his staff at Newton Black Belt Academy as they guide you on this beginner journey to self improvement and confidence. Master Karpiuk's Black Belt alumni have gone on to become teachers, lawyers, doctors, nurses, entrepreneurs and more!
The Chemical Institute of Canada has a National Crystal Growing Competition
https://www.cheminst.ca/discover/national-crystal-growing-competition/
This year, the competition will be occurring in 2025 and will involve the growth of potassium chloride (KCl) within the growth period from February 3rd to April 3rd. The handbook with more detail is in the "When does it take place?" section under "How to participate". This could be fun for those with patience.
Rock related events
Educational and fun for all ages, information on the event (May) https://www.bclapidary.com/bc-gem-show.php
Co-op Opportunity
I am a Christian homeschooling Mama in the Cowichan Valley and run a field trip group that meets monthly for local field trips. We also organize informal classes and meet ups. I want to invite all homelearning families on the Island to join us if they desire. Families can email me at crystalnickeljones@gmail.com to be added to the monthly email list.
Exploring by the Seat of Your Pants
There are many virtual offerings that home learners can sign-up for in both English and French.
Museum of Surrey
Vibrant, interactive and ever changing, Museum of Surrey, located at 17710 56A Avenue, is a free local venue for wonder, dialogue and fun for the whole family. Drop-In for a Visit Tuesday to Saturday (9:30am to 5:30pm) Sunday (noon to 5pm). There are rotating exhibitions available.
https://centreoftheuniverse.org/exoexplorations
Astronomy Resources offered by:
Friends of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory
Royal Astronomical Society of Canada
Located at the National Research Council’s Dominion Astrophysical Observatory near Victoria, BC
ExoExplorations Lessons, Guides and Teacher Resources
● Unique and extensive set of lessons in astronomy, in both English and French. Developed for
Canadian classrooms from grade 6 to 10 but aspects of many activities can be adapted for other
grades. Can be used as background material, individual learning or classroom settings.
● Find out about planets both within our Solar System and Exoplanets beyond our Solar System
● Other topics include stars, the Milky Way, galaxies, and the universe
● Plenty of hand-on activities, links to videos, websites and other resources
● Questions and quiz materials
● Free on the website
ICanDance! Online Dance Classes
Please consider our programs for Arts and/or P.E. credits: Ballet, Pop Fusion, Dance Chance! Sampler, All On Broadway! Sing & Dance and something NEW….CANpop Music Video Project.
You can find our company information on our website: www.icandance.ca or on FB/IG: Facebook / Instagram
Class course descriptions can be found here: https://www.icandance.ca/icd-online-classdescriptions
Book classes here: https://www.icandance.ca/book-on-line-classes-via-zoom
We hope to see you soon!
Bateman Foundation: Nature Sketch
Victoria, Duncan, Vancouver and Online
Nature Sketch is designed to inspire appreciation of the natural world using a pencil and sketchbook. Every participant will have the opportunity to connect with nature in a variety of unique ecosystems through art, and learn about local flora and fauna and their habitats, including species at risk and the rewilding of urban habitats. With the guidance of a local artist and a naturalist, Nature Sketch encourages participants to explore natural environments through art and eco-literacy.
Details and fees can be seen at https://batemanfoundation.org/nature-sketch/
Canadian Parents for French
Some incredible (and free) opportunities for parents who are interested in resources, the annual public speaking contest and opportunities in French.
Cybersafe BC
Cybersafe is geared towards youth aged 10 – 16. It is an online course with a certificate at the end (which can be used as a Health & Career Sample). Students will watch videos, and do activities as well as learn about the dangers of the internet. They will learn about their digital footprint and online crime, including cyberbullying.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Parents should have a look at the course first because there is a component of the course that discusses sexual predators and "sexting".
Free bowling program for kids
Parents are offered a $25 deal to allow up to 4 older family member to bowl for free with the kids. The parent offer is introduced after you sign up your children.
Royal BC Museum
http://royalbcmuseum.bc.ca/learn/museum-events/kids-and-families-events
Youth Leadership Millennium (YLM) Program
The Youth Leadership Millennium (YLM) Program consists of three levels: Bronze, Silver and Gold. These correspond with the Bronze, Silver and Gold levels of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award – which is a big part of YLM – but we offer so much more.
Our aim is to empower young people to take on leadership roles both in life and in the community. Through the three levels of the program, we strive to guide them in exploring new opportunities and developing their leadership and life skills through experience.
The S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Youth Leadership Millennium program is a holistic leadership training program with 5 unique focuses:
- Personal Development
- Leadership Development
- Community Awareness
- Adventure Expedition, and
- Community Leadership Initiative
New to YLM? The Bronze level is where you want to start!
Upon successful completion of the YLM Bronze program, youth participants will receive the following:
- S.U.C.C.E.S.S. Youth Leadership Millennium (YLM) Certificate
- The Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award
- Toastmasters International Youth Leadership Program Certificate
- St. John Ambulance‘s First Aid Certificate
Completing HCOS Learning Groups Applications
This page provides information on who to complete an HCOS Learning Group Application. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact lg@onlineschool.ca.
Signing up for an application where each participant signs up separately (seats):
There are some opportunities when each participating individual needs to provide full information in an application so we can best support student success and safety. This includes opportunities such as Community Connections, all drop-off Learning Camps, overnight Learning Camps and other opportunities as applicable.
Signing up for an application where the parent signs up and chooses the number of tickets desired:
For Learning Camps where parents are fully responsible for the care and supervision of their children, we use a streamlined application form where the parent signs up and chooses the applicable number and types of tickets for their family, providing minimal information in the application. This includes Learning Camps such as track and field, concert performances or virtual meet an author workshop.
Further reminders on completing a Learning Groups application
Thank you for your interest in signing up for an HCOS Learning Group opportunity. Please see the videos on how to complete an application, further notes for your reference are here:
- If you are having difficulty submitting your application or experiencing application bugs - try opening it in a different browser, and when it asks if you should start a new application - select “yes”.
- There is only one parent/guardian allowed on an Enrolled student application (Enrolled students have a PO and a teacher, a Registered student does not). Additional attending adults, Registered or General Community students and Pre-K children (where applicable) will need a separate application, with payment by credit card.
- If your family is a combination and you are paying for all participants (including Enrolled students), start your application with the non-Enrolled student first.
- If ticketed opportunity, you will need to use a different email address or initial participant name.
- Adults and Pre-K cannot sign up as an Enrolled student. The PO number will be cross referenced to determine that it is attached to an enrolled student and you will be invoiced for the correct fee in the case that this occurs.
- If your HCOS PO funding does not cover the entire application fee, the funding you have will be applied to the learning camp and you will be invoiced for the remaining balance. If there was a minimum credit card amount (such as for Community Connections or Learning Camps with higher fees), balances outstanding will be charged to the card on file per the terms within the application.
- We are unable to collect cash at events. We do not accept visa debit, however it is possible to pay with a pre-paid credit card.
- If you forward an invoice to your General Community school for payment, please make sure to also forward the resulting receipt for their records (all correspondence is with you directly).
- Learning Group fees are non-refundable unless it explicitly notes otherwise.
- Community Connections and specific Learning Camps have a graduated cancellation schedule
- When you submit your application, there is a required question field for agreement of the cancellation fee as indicated. Please confirm your schedule before applying for learning camps.
- If your application is submitted successfully, you will receive a confirmation email. If you do not receive this email, please reach out to lg@onlineschool.ca to confirm if your application has been submitted.
- Please be aware, if you “opt-out” of Cvent (the application program) email notifications you will not receive submission confirmations or invoices (where applicable). In the event that you have a balance, the LG Office will reach out to you for permission to opt you back in.
For further information, please see our Families SOPHIE Book for general Learning Groups information.
LG Terms and Conditions & Cancellation Fees Information
This page provides information on Learning Groups Terms and Conditions and Cancellation Fee information.
Information may slightly vary between Learning Camps and Community Connections. Please review information contained in each application.
LG Application Terms and Conditions
The event fee is non-refundable or on a graduated scale for extended events, because we have made commitments to paying our facility and teachers, bought supplies, etc. as we've planned for the event. *individual offerings may include any pertinent additions
Learning Group (LG) Code of Conduct and Cancellation Policy:
- I acknowledge that I have read and agree to adhere to the HCOS Code of Conduct and HCOS Policies and Procedures throughout my/our participation in this event.
- Reminder to communicate with your teacher and/ or school that you have applied to participate in this LG activity.
- Fees are based upon school affiliation at time of application and parents are responsible to ensure sufficient funds are available.
- Parents are responsible to ensure sufficient funds are available. Upon submission of application for this event, Learning Group fees are non-refundable. Alternate arrangements and exchange of monies may be made to have another student take your child's place, provided adequate notice, approval, space permits. Please consult with the event coordinator.
- I authorize the Learning Group coordinator and/or instructor to administer first aid and/ or attend to medical emergencies if required.
- To best support all students in a group setting appropriately, I authorize the Learning Group coordinator and/or instructor to contact my support teacher.
- Please note: It is very important during the application process to disclose all pertinent information about areas your student may need additional supports. If additional information is later discovered that was withheld during the application process, HCOS may not be able to offer the required supports and your student may be asked to leave the program.
- Acknowledgement of Risk: HCOS does not require nor endorse students participating in activities with increased levels of risk to fulfill course requirements, nor does the school assume any liability for injury or death while engaged in course activities. Therefore if a student chooses to participate, they acknowledge and understand the nature of the activity and the level of risk involved. Families must ensure that they have appropriate insurance to cover student participation, as HCOS does not provide insurance coverage for students.
Cancellation Fee Schedule- CCs and long term events
Learning Camp fees are non-refundable unless specified in the application.
Please note, this is an example only. The applicable version to your family is part of your CC or Extended Learning Camp application and part of the auto-email you receive after clicking ‘submit’.
*Once I submit the application, I understand that the Community Connections cancellation/ refund policy is as follows:
• Non-refundable application fee: $50/ $100 of your total per student fees charged is considered an application fee and is non-refundable and payable by credit card.
• Cancellation Refund Schedule: Please note the graduated fee schedule should the coordinator receive notice of cancellation or withdrawal.
o July 1 or Aug 1 to Application Deadline: $75/ $125 total per student will be charged for notice prior to the application deadline.
o Application Deadline to start date: $100/ $150 total per student will be charged for notice prior to the start date.
o Start Date to Dec.15: 50% of the fees are refundable for notice provided prior to Dec.15, after which non-refundable.
o Term 2 and Term 3 student additions: Application and pro-rated event fees are payable in full and are non-refundable.
Personal Digital Device Usage Policy
Rationale
As a school, HCOS strives to help students be responsible and discerning digital citizens, embracing God’s unique purpose for their lives. The purpose of this policy is to create an environment where students are able to focus on learning and developing digital literacy skills without the distractions created by personal digital devices.
Definitions
Personal Digital Devices (PDD) - any personal electronic device that can be used to communicate or to access the internet, including, but not limited to, a cell phone, smart watch or tablet.
Digital Citizenship: Digital citizenship is the ability to navigate our digital environments in a way that is safe and responsible and to actively and respectfully engage in these spaces.
Digital Literacy: Digital literacy is the ability to access, manage, understand, integrate, communicate, evaluate and create information safely and appropriately through digital technologies.
Policy
To ensure an environment that encourages learning, HCOS will require students to observe the following restrictions while on-site during school hours:
-
All Personal Digital Devices must remain in a student’s backpack and in silent mode while at Learning Groups events.
-
Any emergency communication will be directed through the Coordinator.
Exceptions
-
Teachers may, at their discretion, allow the use of PDD as needed for instructional purposes.
-
Access to a PDD for medical reasons may, after discussion between the school and parent, be allowed as deemed necessary.
Disciplinary Steps
-
If a student is using a PDD during an LG activity, the student will be asked to give it to a staff member, and it can be picked up by the student at the end of the day from the Coordinator or Teacher.
-
In cases of repeated confiscations, parents may be contacted, and further disciplinary action may be taken
Release of Liability
HCOS takes no responsibility for loss or damage to cell phones, iPods and any other electronic device. Parents send cell phones to school at their own risk.