Group Posting Policy

Seattle Homeschool Group Posting Policy

The purpose of this policy is to set appropriate expectations and group norms for all SHG members. We strive to foster a kind and supportive culture, where members can feel safe to participate without the fear of bias or unfair treatment, to ask or answer questions without fear of ridicule or judgment, to share their trials and triumphs and expect kind and supportive feedback, and most importantly, to make connections and develop real life friendships. 

We are a diverse and inclusive network of homeschoolers. That means we won’t all have the same political views, religion/beliefs, or homeschooling philosophies, but we can approach one another with kindness and curiosity, and give each other the benefit of the doubt. 

By interacting in the group, you are agreeing to abide by this policy.

1. Be Kind and Courteous

Let’s maintain a positive, welcoming, and supportive environment. We value respectful and understanding dialogue in this group, even when we disagree. Assume positive intent and remember that all members of this group are human beings who live and homeschool in the Seattle-area. 

2. Keep it Homeschool-Focused

• Homeschooling is the thread that unites us. Therefore, keep homeschooling central to your posts. The following are the types of posts appreciated here:

• Share resources and educational opportunities, such as classes, co-ops, services, or programs of interest to homeschoolers

• Share about and/or invite others to in-person or online social and educational gatherings, such as park days, playdates, clubs, events, or field trips

• Ask questions or share concerns about homeschooling 

• Be generous in sharing your knowledge and experience, as well as support and encouragement

• Sell or give away homeschool-related items. This can include books, curricula, and other learning materials. Please reply directly to the sender. All sales and transactions are done at buyers’ and sellers’ discretion, and all risks are assumed by those parties only.

• Promotions: If you have a business that offers classes, programs, or services that homeschoolers may be interested in, you may post about them, but please do not post more than once a month. Advertising of businesses not related to homeschooling is not permitted. 

3. Navigating Sensitive Topics

While we appreciate that many view homeschooling as learning in the school of life, there are some topics that have been known to sow discord in this group. These include, but are not limited to, religion, vaccines, and politics. If you choose to share about an event or resource related to these topics, please limit it to essential information only (e.g., event name, date, time, location, parking, contact info, website). Those who are not interested or don’t agree with the stance of an event or resource should ignore it and move on. Posts that read as proselytizing religious or political beliefs, or that appear to intentionally incite conflict are not permitted. This is not the place to try and change people’s minds.

The one exception to the prohibition of political discussion on this list is that related to the legality and legal issues surrounding homeschooling. This list is a great way to advise other homeschoolers of legal issues that directly relate to homeschooling.

4. No Hate Speech or Bullying

Discriminatory language of any kind is not tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, religion, culture, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, or political affiliation. Every human deserves dignity and rights and one’s gender, race, or sexual orientation is simply not a subject for debate.

5. Respect Everyone's Privacy

Being part of this community requires mutual trust. Authentic, expressive discussions make communities great but may also be sensitive and private. What's shared in the community should stay in the community. Conversely, please use your best judgment when it comes to sharing personal information with this group. Nothing shared on the internet is truly private.

6. Do Not Post Photos Without Consent

Please do not post photos of other people without their prior consent. 

7. Google Groups Content Policy

SHG also follows Google Groups content policy. More information can be found there.   

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Group Moderation

This group is moderated by parent volunteers. Moderators may take action as needed to maintain a positive environment. At their discretion, the group may be paused for any reason. 

Posts that break any of these rules will result in that post being paused and that member’s future posts (and replies) will require moderator approval. Repeat offenders may be banned from the group.  

If you have a question or concern for the moderators, please email shgmoderator@gmail.com.  

Disclaimers: The opinions expressed in the group are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily reflect the views of the group moderators or the group as a whole. The moderators reserve the right to modify this policy at any time. The group will be notified when substantive updates are made.

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A Note on Group Settings:

For those who would like to reduce the number of emails they receive from this group, there are three options: Digest, Abridged, and No Email (where you log into the group when you want to check the messages, but you don’t get them in your email inbox). Just be aware that you may miss information that is time sensitive. 

Log into the Google Group to modify your settings. (“My membership settings” on the bottom left hand navigation menu). For non-Gmail users or anyone who needs technical assistance, email shgmoderator@gmail.com.