A code of conduct is an essential document that sets behavioral expectations for members of your group. It helps maintain a harmonious, respectful, and productive environment for everyone involved—students, teachers, parents, and administrators. A well-thought-out code of conduct can prevent misunderstandings and provide a clear path for conflict resolution.
Homeschool groups have different approaches to creating their codes of conduct, but the results typically fall into two broad categories: general and specific, though some may have a mixture of the two that varies by topic.
A general code of conduct is more value-based and focuses on broad principles of behavior. For example, a group might include a statement like, “Since we are dependent on volunteers for our co-op, parents should be willing to help out on a regular basis.” This type of guideline allows for flexibility, as the specifics of what parents should help with and how often can be interpreted differently by each family, yet it establishes a foundation of shared values.
A specific code of conduct provides detailed expectations that require more precise behaviors. Using the example from the general code of conduct, your group may flesh out what volunteering means to you: “Every family must volunteer at least twice a month with either teaching/assisting in a class, cleaning the eating area, or supervising outdoor play.” While this type of code ensures consistency and clarity, it requires more upfront consideration to make sure that all desired policies for your group are included, that the rules fit the values of your group, and that the guidelines are enforceable.
Things to consider including
A thorough code of conduct addresses a variety of behavioral expectations. Issues that you may want to consider include:
How to treat teachers/helpers
In many homeschool groups, respect for teachers and assistants as authority figures is essential for maintaining order. In other groups, only the parents of the students are viewed as the proper authority figures. What specific behaviors are expected from your group members—both parents and students? Things to consider include how to address teachers, listening attentively before challenging a statement, whose instructions take precedence, and showing appreciation.
How to treat other students
We encourage you to use your code of conduct to foster a community of kindness and respect among students. Set guidelines for behavior, such as no bullying (with information on what this includes—physical, verbal, cyber, etc.), respect for personal space, using appropriate language, speaking kindly, and listening to others. If your group is comprised of young children, you may want to be clearer and more specific (i.e., no hitting, pushing, or biting), whereas if your group has older teens, you may want to focus on the broader ideas of integrity, personal responsibility, and respect for others.
Conflict
Addressing conflict effectively is necessary for any organization. Conflict can arise from misunderstandings, differences in values, or unmet expectations. Your code of conduct should establish clear guidelines for resolving these grievances in a respectful and productive manner. This might include steps for addressing grievances, such as having an initial conversation between the parties involved, followed by mediation with a group leader if needed. Encourage open communication and emphasize the importance of listening to all perspectives before jumping to conclusions. For Christian groups, please read the box at the bottom of this section.
POWER DYNAMICS & BULLYING
Bullying is different from typical conflict, and it’s essential to recognize that. It’s the responsibility of leadership to protect the vulnerable and not expect them to resolve issues with their oppressor alone. For example, a first grader should not be expected to confront a fifth-grade bully in private before involving adults. Consider who will step in to resolve situations and ensure that those in authority act impartially.
ORDINARY CONFLICT VS. SERIOUS ISSUES
Distinguish between minor disagreements (such as conflicts between students) and serious issues (like bullying or harassment). Establish how you will mediate conflict, and who will be responsible for handling these issues. If kids are involved, use these conflicts as teaching opportunities where they can observe adults modeling problem-solving and resolution skills.
CONFLICT BETWEEN ADULTS
Consider how your code of conduct handles conflicts between parents or group leaders. Be cautious not to silence a victim of bullying or abuse, but rather, build systems that allow them to have a voice. Ensure your group’s policies don’t inadvertently shield abusers by requiring victims to confront them directly without oversight. When in doubt, always listen first!
(If you encounter a situation involving conflict between a child and adult, proceed with caution. Ensure that you hear all sides of the story in a protected setting and that neutral parties are involved. This is not the situation to attempt one-on-one resolution.)
CHRISTIAN GROUPS AND CONFLICT
Many Christian groups utilize Matthew 18 when it comes to conflict resolution. Though this passage can be a useful guide, Matthew 18 should not be used as the answer for everything, and it does not cover instances of abuse or oppression.
Some groups like to simply state “Use Matthew 18 to resolve issues” in their conflict policy, but it is important that you understand how you will practically apply the passage. Using the guidelines we covered above, we recommend crafting a practical and actionable policy for conflict.
A clear and thoughtful code of conduct is the foundation of a well-run homeschool group. By proactively creating a code of conduct and understanding how to address violations, you’ll create a supportive and respectful environment for everyone. Your group will set a strong example of mutual respect, accountability, and integrity, ensuring your homeschool group’s success for years to come.
Dress code
Consider whether you will have a flexible or strict dress code. This may depend on your group’s location, cultural values, and activities. Will you require uniforms or group t-shirts? Should students be dressed in business casual attire, or are shorts and t-shirts acceptable? If you’re a sports group, should hair be braided or in a ponytail for the students’ protection? Do students need specific footwear or extra equipment for your group’s activities? Defining what is appropriate helps prevent future conflicts and gives you a foundation to address any issues that arise.
Homework policy
If your group (or part of your group) assigns homework, it is important to lay out the requirements. Set clear expectations for timely submission, quality of work, and any consequences for failing to complete assignments in a timely manner. It is also important to consider guidelines for plagiarism, the use of AI, and completing work with integrity. Additionally, if a parent’s expectations for their child’s homework completion don’t align with the teacher's expectations, how will your group handle that?
Electronics policy
Decide how and when students can use electronics. Will devices be allowed during break times, or should students leave them at home? Define the policy clearly, particularly if electronics are only allowed for educational purposes.
Absences
What will your group consider an absence? Should parents inform the group in advance, and do they need to find coverage if they are serving in your group? Are there consequences for excessive absences?
Care for facility
If your group uses a shared facility, it’s important to ensure that the space is respected and maintained. Outline responsibilities for cleaning, organizing, and respecting the property.
Other considerations
Additional aspects to consider can include behavioral expectations during field trips, guidelines for extracurricular activities, or special rules for specific classes. Tailor the code of conduct to the unique needs of your group.
It’s equally important to set expectations for both the parents and the students, especially if parents are active participants in the group. If the group is a drop-off co-op, where parents are not on site, this may not be as relevant. However, in many groups where parents stay or help, the behavior of adults can set the tone for the entire group.
You might consider adding a statement like, “We encourage adults to model respectful, kind communication, especially when discussing issues with leadership or other parents.”
It is also important that you know how you will handle a violation of the code of conduct before you encounter it for the first time. Make sure to have a clear plan for addressing both minor and major infractions. Will there be warnings? Suspensions? At what point will an infraction lead to a family’s removal from your group? These situations can be difficult, but you can ensure fairness and trust within the group by applying the code of conduct consistently.