Starting a homeschool co-op can be a rewarding and life-changing experience for both parents and students. If you can’t find a co-op in your area, consider creating your own!
Here are key takeaways from one homeschool mom’s journey in building successful co-ops:
Quick Takeaways:
Feel the Call – Know your “why” before committing to starting a co-op.
If You Build It, They Will Come – Spread the word and gather interested families.
Be a Benevolent Dictator – Take charge while fostering a supportive community.
Set Boundaries – Establish clear rules, expectations, and a structure for sustainability.
Know When to Move On – Build something that can thrive beyond your leadership.
The Lives We Touch
In 2010, I started my first homeschool co-op after finishing a great year of teaching a Shakespeare class in my basement. We studied Hamlet in the first half of the year, and in the second half, students auditioned for and performed Much Ado About Nothing. I didn’t just teach—I mentored both students and parents. Everything was going so well, so why did almost every student in that class enroll in public school the next year?
The answer lay in parental confidence and student resources. The parents didn’t know how to homeschool through high school, and even if they did, they lacked a community. That realization was an a-ha moment for me, and Families Inspiring Leaders Academy (FILA) was born. Since then, I have helped create six co-ops. I did not do this alone—I had the support of like-minded individuals and wise mentors. I learned, as I hope you will too, that seeking advice from those who have been there is invaluable.
1. Feel the Call
I liken starting a co-op to the Hero’s Journey. Someone or something invites the hero (you) on an adventure—in this case, launching a co-op. You can accept or reject the call, but if you accept, growth and learning will follow. Just like in any great story, difficulties will arise, and perseverance is key. To sustain that perseverance, you must know your “why.”
Why are you doing this?
Why you?
What about homeschooling do you have to share?
Your educational philosophy* and conviction will guide you. While I believe everyone can start a co-op, not everyone should. Strengthen your conviction before you begin, and your journey will be more successful.
[I will include the following in the footnote of the blog: "I studied the book A Thomas Jefferson Education by Oliver DeMille. It’s a great underlying philosophy for homeschooling, and it played a HUGE part in the organization of the co-ops that I have worked on. There are lots of other homeschooling philosophies and points of view, so make sure you are solid on yours."]
2. If You Build It, They Will Come
Many people talk themselves out of starting before they even try. They assume failure with thoughts like:
“I don’t know any homeschoolers in the area.”
“This will be too much work.”
“How would I even go about finding people?”
Yes, starting a co-op requires effort, but here’s how you can successfully begin:
Gathering Phase – Use social media and word of mouth to spread information about your co-op.
Informational Meetings – Host gatherings at your home, a library, or a park to connect with interested families.
Start a Book Club – Discuss an article or book related to your homeschool philosophy to spark engagement.
Provide Tentative Details – Share potential locations, costs, and requirements, even if they aren’t final.
Be Patient – Many homeschoolers don’t make their final decisions until September or later.
Know your minimum and maximum numbers. In my experience, if you put in the work, people will come—it always feels like a miracle and is one of the most rewarding parts of this journey.
3. Be a Benevolent Dictator
This is your organization. You set the rules and make the decisions. However, that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone:
Build a Leadership Team – Find two key people: a treasurer and a VP who share your vision.
Foster Ideas from Others – Encourage parents to contribute their ideas.
Support Enthusiasm – Say “yes” when possible. One mom wanted a gardening class, so I helped her secure a grant, transport a greenhouse, and adopt the roundabout on our street. It was a labor of love, but the payoff was immense.
Being a benevolent dictator has its perks—your co-op will reflect your passion while also uplifting others.
4. Set Boundaries
Boundaries are essential for avoiding burnout and ensuring the longevity of your co-op. Here’s what helps:
Consider 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Status – This allows for fundraising, grants, and enforced rules.
Create Bylaws & Handbooks – Establish expectations early.
Set Communication Standards – Choose an official platform (email, Facebook, Homeschool Life, etc.) and define office hours.
Treat It Like a Business – Ask yourself, "How would I handle this in a workplace?"
Setting clear boundaries ensures that your co-op runs smoothly and sustainably.
5. Know When to Move On
One day, you will feel the pull to do something new—heed that message. If your co-op is structured well, others will step up when you step away. Trust them to carry on the work.
I recently had a mother tell me she attributes much of her parenting growth to the time spent with the moms at FILA. That impact is priceless.
I still work with homeschool families through my business, Curriculum Square, where I provide group projects and training for homeschooling parents. I wouldn’t be doing this fulfilling work if I hadn’t taken that first step years ago.
Final Thoughts
I am grateful for the advice that shaped my journey, and I appreciate the opportunity to pay it forward. My family has benefited greatly from co-ops, and I have seen firsthand how they transform lives.
If you’re feeling called to start your own co-op, don’t be afraid to take the leap. You will make a difference in the lives of those you touch.
Good luck, and happy homeschooling!
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