Frequently Asked Questions

What is TEC? The Enrichment Cooperative is an educational program designed to enrich the learning of children whose parents are their primary educators. It is operated by Spokane Public Schools. Students may register for a wide menu of courses, including Martial Arts, Art, Music, Science, PE, Math, and many other options.

How does TEC fit the Alternative Learning WAC (Washington Administrative Code)?
TEC is governed by WAC 392-121-182, also known as the Alternative Learning Law. This law requires that students in programs like TEC have a Written Student Learning Plan that helps plan and track the child's progress. In addition, students will be in contact with a certificated teacher weekly.

If we enroll in TEC, do we still fill our a Declaration of Intent of Homeschool?
This year the law has changed allowing students to enroll part time so they can continue to keep their home school status. Students enrolled in TEC full time are considered Public School Students, although their parents continue to be their primary educations.

What is required of TEC students?
A minimum of 1 hours in TEC classes per week
At least 15 hours of learning activities per week plus TEC classes (Kindergarten)
At least 20 hours of off-site learning activities per week plus TEC classes (1-3rd grades)
At least 25 hours of off-site learning activities per week plus TEC classes (4th - 12th grades)

A Written Student Learning Plan, that outlines learning goals each trimester. This plan is the map for your child's education. This is a living document and a dialogue between the family and the SLP reviewer and will be updated monthly.

How is the TEC school year structured?
The year is broken into trimesters. Each trimester new classes are offered and students re-register.
Trimester One: September – December
Trimester Two January – March
Trimester Three April – June

How are district teachers involved in my child’s education?
Each family works directly with a certified teacher to write and update a Student Learning Plan(SLP). The teacher advises and assists parent educators as needed.

May I still use my own curriculum with my children?
Parent educators may continue to use any curriculum material they choose, although only secular materials are reimbursable using the allotted funds.

How is my child evaluated?
Individual courses require different forms of assessment. District assessments such as the Iowa Test of Basic Skills and the Washington Assessment of Student Learning are also offered at the appropriate grade levels.

What is the “reimbursement?”
This is an allotment of money shared with the parent. Its purpose is to purchase materials that will assist the parent educator in instructing the child. All purchases must be related to and specifically listed in the Student Learning Plan. While the amount could change from year to year, the reimbursement allotment for the 2003-2004 school year was $550.00 for a full-time student. The amount is pro-rated for students who enroll throughout the school year.

May I drop my student off on days that she or he attends classes at TEC?
Parents of children 7 and under are required to remain onsite with their children. A family room and a quiet room are available for waiting parents, as well as tables for study.

What about the “Coop” part of TEC?
Are parents required to volunteer?
Parents are invited and encouraged to participate at TEC in a variety of ways: teaching classes, helping classroom teachers, and serving on program action teams to name a few.

Who has access to my child’s records, such as the Student Learning Plan or medical and personal information?
Only district 81 staff would have access to confidential medical/personal information that is indicated by a parent as confidential. Some of the parent volunteers work may include alphabetizing forms that may have name, address, phone number and schedule. If this is a problem for you please talk to our principal, Dana