SAFE in HERALD5

Membership

Why homeschool at all?

As Christians, we choose to homeschool to provide an education rooted in our faith, ensuring that biblical principles guide our children’s learning and character development. Homeschooling allows us to tailor lessons to reinforce our values, integrate scripture into daily studies, and create a nurturing environment free from outside influences that may conflict with our educational goals.

Joining with other homeschool families allows for a sense of community, offering fellowship, shared resources, and cooperative learning experiences. These connections help build lasting friendships, provide encouragement, and enrich the homeschooling journey with group activities, field trips, and faith-centered discussions. The combined support strengthens both academic and spiritual growth.

Membership Pre-Requisites

Before applying to join SAFE in Herald5, a prospective member (parent educator) should:

  • Have a high school diploma or GED.
  • Maintain a current membership with Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA).
  • Determine the course of study for each student for the upcoming year. This should include, but not be limited to, the basic instructional areas of reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies; and in grades seven through twelve, composition and literature.

Application Requirements

To apply for membership in SAFE in Herald5:

  • Submit a completed application no later than September 1 of the current year. (Any application received after September 1 will incur a $10 late fee.) Include the following:
    • SAFE cover letter
    • Membership application
    • A copy of your HSLDA membership card for the current year
    • A course of study for each student
    • A check for applicable fees

Ongoing Membership Expectations

Members of SAFE in Herald5 are expected to:

  • Have an instructional year of at least 180 days.
  • Maintain educational records including:
    • plan book, diary, or other written record indicating subjects taught and activities in which the student and parent/teacher engage.
    • A portfolio of samples of the student’s academic work.
    • Semester progress reports including attendance records and grades/evaluations for each of the subject areas (reading, writing, mathematics, science and social studies; and in grades seven through twelve, composition and literature).
  • Submit 90 and 180-day cards by assigned deadlines.
  • Submit High School Worksheets by June 1 of each school year. (This is a SAFE in Herald5 form; parent-generated transcripts are not acceptable.)
  • Renew HSLDA membership before expiration of current membership and submit a copy of the new HSLDA card within 10 days of the previous card’s expiration date.
  • Submit all requested forms/paperwork required by SAFE within 10 days of notification.
  • Make records available upon request.