HCHC Long‑Form Acknowledgment, Tuition Commitment, Waiver, and Indemnification Agreement

Program: HCHC Leadership Academy at Columbia, Ellicott City, and Frederick, MD

1. Purpose and Scope

This Agreement sets forth the full terms and conditions that govern a family’s participation in programs operated by Howard County Home‑Educator Corp. (HCHC), including but not limited to full‑day co‑op enrollment, single‑class punch cards, trial classes and shadow days, and the free recess socialization option. By signing below, I acknowledge that I have carefully read and understand this Agreement, that participation in HCHC programs is voluntary, and that I am authorized to sign on behalf of the child(ren) named above.

2. Program Options and Meaning of Enrollment

HCHC provides a range of flexible options designed to build community and support learning. These include the free recess socialization hour, which allows families to gather for community, play, and connection without academic instruction and without reserving classroom seats; single‑class punch cards and trial opportunities; and full‑day co‑op enrollment that includes core academics and enrichment delivered by teachers and tutors. I understand that only full‑day co‑op enrollment constitutes an annual tuition contract with the obligations described in this Agreement. I further understand that choosing the free recess socialization option or using a punch card or trial class does not secure or hold a space in full‑day co‑op classes, and that space in those classes is limited and prioritized for enrolled students.

3. Academic Year and Attendance Expectations

HCHC operates a year‑long co‑op model. Regular attendance supports academic progress, classroom community, and safety. I agree to notify HCHC as soon as possible regarding any expected or unexpected absences and to provide advance notice for early dismissals so that staff can coordinate safe student release. I understand that tuition is not refundable, not prorated, and not reimbursed for absences, tardiness, family travel, schedule changes, or other discretionary non‑attendance.

4. Tuition Commitment for Full‑Day Co‑op Enrollment

By selecting full‑day co‑op enrollment, I am entering into a binding obligation to pay the full annual tuition for the entire academic school year. I may select an available payment plan, including monthly installments through approved processors such as Partial.ly, Stripe, PayPal, or Zelle, or I may choose to pay in full. I agree to keep a valid payment method on file, to ensure timely payments as scheduled, and to resolve any failed or declined payments within five business days. I understand that accounts may be placed on hold for nonpayment and that late or returned payments may incur additional fees consistent with HCHC policy. I understand that accounts unpaid for an extended period may be referred to a collections agency, and that unpaid balances may affect eligibility for future enrollment.

5. Early Withdrawal, Termination, and Nonrefundable Tuition

I understand that tuition for full‑day co‑op enrollment is nonrefundable. If I choose to withdraw for reasons other than a documented medical necessity or verified military relocation, I remain responsible for the full annual tuition obligation. If I request an early withdrawal for non‑medical and non‑military reasons, I agree to pay a four hundred fifty dollar ($450) termination and withdrawal processing fee to close my tuition plan and stop future scheduled payments. I understand that tuition already paid will not be refunded or prorated. If I request withdrawal due to a documented medical necessity or verified military relocation and provide proper documentation with a completed Withdrawal Request Form, HCHC will review the circumstances and may prorate tuition at its discretion.

6. Prepaid Items, Uniforms, and Lunch Cards

HCHC issues certain prepaid items, including uniforms, curricula, and lunch cards. I agree to provide proof of purchase for such items at Open House or within the first two weeks of the program year so that materials can be issued. Each student receives one lunch card at the start of the year; if a card is lost or unpurchased, I agree to pay the published replacement fee. I understand that no child is turned away for lunch service and that unpaid replacement cards will be billed to my account. I understand and agree to the school uniform policy, which includes a school polo with khaki or dark bottoms; girls may wear pants or pleated skirts with tights; and the designated orange field trip T‑shirt must be worn on all field trips. If a student arrives out of uniform, I understand that HCHC may require a change of clothing and will contact me if needed.

7. Daily Schedule and Late Pick‑Up

The program day ends at 2:00 p.m. I agree to pick up my child(ren) by 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise communicated in writing by HCHC. I understand that a late pick‑up fee will be assessed for students remaining after 2:15 p.m. and that this fee will be billed through the school’s standard payment platform. Habitual lateness may result in administrative follow‑up and may affect a student’s standing in the program.

8. Electronics and Technology Use

Student personal devices, including cell phones, must remain secured in backpacks and may be used only during lunch and recess when permitted by staff. Social media and entertainment apps, including TikTok and YouTube, are strongly discouraged on campus. Laptops and tablets may be used for educational purposes with teacher approval. If a student uses a device in a way that is disruptive, unsafe, or contrary to policy, staff may confiscate the device for the remainder of the day and notify the parent or guardian. When students use school devices or network resources, they agree to safe, respectful, educational use and to comply with all instructions from staff.

9. Parent Volunteer Commitment

HCHC’s cooperative model relies on family participation. New and returning families receive training during the first two weeks of the term covering setup, lunch and recess supervision, classroom support, and cleanup. Each family commits to completing two volunteer shifts per semester, which totals eight service hours for the year. Families who are unable to volunteer agree to an opt‑out fee for each semester. I understand that missed or incomplete shifts must be rescheduled or will result in the opt‑out fee being billed to my account.

10. Student Conduct, Discipline, and Safety

I understand that HCHC maintains a structured, respectful environment where safety and dignity are prioritized. Expectations include speaking kindly, moving safely, following directions, keeping hands to oneself, honoring personal boundaries, and using technology appropriately. When concerns arise, staff will respond in proportion to the behavior and will partner with parents to address patterns and support the student. Minor misbehavior such as yelling, running indoors, or roughhousing may result in shortened or revoked recess, restorative conversation, or other appropriate classroom responses with parent communication as needed. Misuse of language, gestures, or cell phones will result in parent notification and may include device confiscation for the day. Acts of gossip, exclusion, and non‑physical aggression are treated seriously under the anti‑bullying policy. Physical altercations, leaving campus without permission, or dishonesty with staff may result in immediate suspension. Possession or use of illegal or harmful items or criminal activity may result in expulsion. Tuition remains nonrefundable in all disciplinary outcomes.

11. Anti‑Bullying and Harassment

HCHC enforces a zero‑tolerance policy for bullying and harassment. Confirmed incidents will result in a progressive response that may include an administrative meeting with parents or guardians, suspension for a period determined by administration, and potential expulsion for repeat or severe violations. The goal is safety, accountability, and restoration whenever reasonably possible, with the understanding that persistent or egregious behavior may result in removal to protect the community. Tuition remains nonrefundable in these circumstances.