Start Your Own Co-op.
We have had people asking us how to start a co-op like ours in their town. We would be happy to help you do that!
I had four kids ages seven and under when I started leading this new co-op structure. I had my fifth child halfway through our second semester. I know that if I can do it, so can you!
Here are a list of thing you need to do before starting a co-op. Have two leaders. I am an impulsive, laid back, make-it-up-as-you-go, type person. I have a co-leader, who is organized, plans thoroughly, and thinks everything through. The balance that we provide as leaders is a huge part of our success. We also help each other prevent burnout. You don't have to agree on everything, but you both need to be committed to making the first year work.
Second, you need families willing to commit to giving one whole semester a go. If you don't have enough starting families then new people won't be interested in joining you.
When the Helena Homeschool Enrichment Co-op was formed in 2013, we had five committed families. Our kids ranged from new born to 3rd grade. We had 3 age groups nursery, littles and biggers (8 classes). Some of us had to lead teach two classes. As our families and membership grew so did our number of classes and volunteers. After 5 years, we are now at over 30 families, 7 different age groups and 21 individual classes. I believe a huge part of this success is found in remembering that this co-op belongs to God, and he is free to do with it as he wills. We just faithfully follow and serve. Today, the co-op is the highlight of the week for my family and many other families.
You will want as many families as you have total classes, if you are following our structure. If all your families are young that may mean you have only 3 age groups at 3 classes per age group that's nine families. Or, for five age groups, then you would want at least 15 families to run smoothly.
There are some ways you can reduce your volunteer needs for getting started. You could only do two class periods instead of 3 making it only six classes for 3 age groups. You could also, combine age groups for certain subjects like gym. Lastly, you can choose not to require two teachers in each class. Having two is more of a protection measure against accusation. With class room windows or open doors and a close knit group, it may not be necessary.
Third, you need a place to meet. You need a big room for all to be together in, as many classrooms as you have age groups, and a place for parents to have a cup of coffee and chat.
If you have these things and would like to get more practical advice and information, feel free to e-mail us at [email protected]. Feel free to use our handbook as an idea board. We can share paperwork, spreadsheets and more. We would love to help you start something where you are, in support of homeschooling everywhere.
God's Blessings on you,
Chris H
The Helena Homeschool Enrichment Co-op
I had four kids ages seven and under when I started leading this new co-op structure. I had my fifth child halfway through our second semester. I know that if I can do it, so can you!
Here are a list of thing you need to do before starting a co-op. Have two leaders. I am an impulsive, laid back, make-it-up-as-you-go, type person. I have a co-leader, who is organized, plans thoroughly, and thinks everything through. The balance that we provide as leaders is a huge part of our success. We also help each other prevent burnout. You don't have to agree on everything, but you both need to be committed to making the first year work.
Second, you need families willing to commit to giving one whole semester a go. If you don't have enough starting families then new people won't be interested in joining you.
When the Helena Homeschool Enrichment Co-op was formed in 2013, we had five committed families. Our kids ranged from new born to 3rd grade. We had 3 age groups nursery, littles and biggers (8 classes). Some of us had to lead teach two classes. As our families and membership grew so did our number of classes and volunteers. After 5 years, we are now at over 30 families, 7 different age groups and 21 individual classes. I believe a huge part of this success is found in remembering that this co-op belongs to God, and he is free to do with it as he wills. We just faithfully follow and serve. Today, the co-op is the highlight of the week for my family and many other families.
You will want as many families as you have total classes, if you are following our structure. If all your families are young that may mean you have only 3 age groups at 3 classes per age group that's nine families. Or, for five age groups, then you would want at least 15 families to run smoothly.
There are some ways you can reduce your volunteer needs for getting started. You could only do two class periods instead of 3 making it only six classes for 3 age groups. You could also, combine age groups for certain subjects like gym. Lastly, you can choose not to require two teachers in each class. Having two is more of a protection measure against accusation. With class room windows or open doors and a close knit group, it may not be necessary.
Third, you need a place to meet. You need a big room for all to be together in, as many classrooms as you have age groups, and a place for parents to have a cup of coffee and chat.
If you have these things and would like to get more practical advice and information, feel free to e-mail us at [email protected]. Feel free to use our handbook as an idea board. We can share paperwork, spreadsheets and more. We would love to help you start something where you are, in support of homeschooling everywhere.
God's Blessings on you,
Chris H
The Helena Homeschool Enrichment Co-op
