Consulting Services

At Big House Christian Academy, we believe that Christian education is the best choice, and we are passionate about helping others start schools and support homeschool families. While we provide some simple steps to help you start a school, please note that this is not legal advice. If you need more in-depth guidance, we offer consulting services for both school startups and homeschooling, providing expert advice, step-by-step support, and practical solutions. Through our paid consulting services, you not only receive dedicated assistance, but you also help further our ministry, allowing us to continue the work God has called us to. We’d be happy to discuss how we can assist you through a consulting arrangement.

How to start a private school in Arizona

1. Decide on the mission and vision for your school.

2. Form a non-profit entity.

3. Apply for an EIN with the IRS.

4. Apply for an Arizona unemployment insurance tax account number.

5. Apply for a city business license and any applicable permits you may need.

6. Hire an accountant.

7. Get liability insurance & workers comp insurance (this is harder to do than it sounds, try Brotherhood Mutual if you’re having trouble).

8. Sign up as a vendor with Class Wallet for ESA.

9. Hire a lawyer that specializes in educational law.

10. Build a website.

11. Create a social media presence.

12. Decide on curriculum.

13. Write a parent/student handbook.

14. Write a staff handbook.

15. Make your school calendar and hours (make sure you have enough hours as required by law).

How to start homeschooling in arizona

1. Withdraw your child from public school, if applicable.

2. File a homeschool affidavit with your county (here's Pinal county) OR apply for the Arizona Empowerment Scholarship.

3. Choose what curricula and/or online programs you'll be using.

4. Relax and have fun!

Consulting services: Schools

1. Vision & Mission Development

• Helping define the school’s purpose, values, and educational philosophy

• Assisting with branding, name selection, and school identity

2. Legal & Regulatory Guidance

• Providing an overview of state and federal education laws (not legal advice)

• Assisting with incorporation (nonprofit or for-profit) and tax-exempt status (501(c)(3))

• Guiding through licensing and accreditation

3. Business & Financial Planning

• Creating a startup budget and long-term financial plan

• Helping with tuition models, fundraising strategies, and grant opportunities

• Assisting with financial sustainability and cash flow management

4. Curriculum & Program Development

• Recommending curriculum options (faith-based, classical, STEM, Montessori, etc.)

• Designing academic programs and extracurricular activities

• Advising on student assessments and standardized testing options

5. School Governance & Leadership

• Helping establish a school board and governance structure

• Assisting in developing policies and procedures

• Providing guidance on administrative roles and responsibilities

6. Facility Planning

• Assisting in selecting a suitable location (church partnership, leased space, etc.)

• Advising on classroom setup, safety compliance, and facility needs

• Recommending technology and resource planning

7. Staffing & Hiring

• Advising on hiring teachers, administrators, and support staff

• Assisting in job descriptions, contracts, and staff training

• Recommending professional development resources

8. Marketing & Enrollment Strategies

• Developing a marketing plan to attract students and families

• Assisting with social media, website creation, and promotional materials

• Providing strategies for open houses, parent engagement, and community outreach

9. Policies & Procedures Development

• Assisting with creating a student handbook, discipline policies, and health/safety protocols

• Guiding on admissions processes and academic policies

10. School Launch & Ongoing Support

• Helping plan for the first day and ensuring a smooth opening

• Offering mentorship and troubleshooting common startup challenges

• Providing ongoing consulting services for the first few years of operation

Consulting services: Homeschool Families

1. Initial Consultation & Planning

• Assessing a family's educational goals, learning styles, and needs

• Explaining state homeschooling laws and requirements (not legal advice but general guidance)

2. Curriculum Selection & Customization

• Recommending curriculum options based on the child’s learning style

• Helping parents create a well-rounded, personalized education plan

3. Record-Keeping & Compliance

• Guiding parents on how to track attendance, grades, and progress

• Providing templates for portfolios, transcripts, or report cards

• Explaining standardized testing

4. Teaching Strategies & Learning Support

• Offering tips on lesson planning and scheduling

• Providing solutions for struggling learners or gifted students

• Helping parents adjust teaching methods for different ages and subjects

5. Socialization & Extracurricular Planning

• Recommending co-ops, sports teams, and community groups

• Providing ideas for field trips, clubs, and enrichment activities

• Addressing concerns about socialization in homeschooling

6. High School & College Prep

• Advising on high school transcripts, diplomas, and graduation requirements

• Helping with dual enrollment and early college planning

• Guiding families through college applications, scholarships, and standardized testing (SAT/ACT)

Fees

Schools:

Hourly Rate

• $100 per hour

• This is ideal for clients who need occasional guidance rather than full-service support.

Flat Fee Packages

• Basic Consultation Package: $1,000

  • Includes an initial assessment, general guidance, and a step-by-step outline.

• Comprehensive Startup Package: $5,000

  • Includes in-depth planning, curriculum guidance, accreditation support, and operational setup.

Homeschool Families:

Hourly Rate

• $50 per hour

• This is ideal for clients who need occasional guidance rather than full-service support.

Flat Fee Packages

• Basic Consultation Package: $500

  • Includes steps 1-3

• Comprehensive Startup Package: $1,000

  • Includes steps 1-6 and ongoing support