“What is a co-op?” is a pretty standard question for anyone who didn’t grow up in the homeschooling community. In fact, to many, “co-op” and “homeschool” are synonymous terms. Let’s explore what a co-op entails, its many benefits, and the differences between co-ops and homeschooling. There’s no “right” or “wrong” way to do it––but make sure to educate yourself before making a decision.
What Is Co-op?
Technically speaking, “co-op” is short for “cooperative.” Practically speaking, a co-op looks like a structured combination of classroom-based education with hands-on (home)work experience. Co-ops are formalized groups of families that regularly meet together to facilitate group academic teaching.
Homeschooling & Co-op: What’s the Difference?
According to high school senior Rhema Creel who has been homeschooled her entire life, the terms “homeschool” and “co-op” can go together, but the terms do not mean the same thing. To her, the difference between homeschool and co-op is that “homeschooling is the broader term, and there are other things––like co-op––you can do within that.”
She goes on to explain that when you homeschool, there are different ways to go about it. “Some people can take classes online and others work through a textbook with their mom at their house. Then as you get older, it’s more independent study,” she said. Meanwhile, “Co-op is when you take classes outside your house.” However, there are multiple types of co-ops. Let’s break them down.
Types of Co-ops
The “standard” type of academic co-op offers lecture classes 1–2 times per week and then supplements the time students are not in class with homework. You could have one class, or you could have six––the number of classes is determined by whatever fits your schedule, the number of credits you need, or what is offered in your area. Typically, you pay a flat fee per class that covers the expense of the teacher. Students can also often earn college credits once they reach high school. The classes are based on an academic curriculum and the subjects typically include math, science, literature, history, and foreign languages.
Some co-op groups, however, specialize in a certain area or learning philosophy. For example, the Classical Conversations co-op approach is different because the curriculum is more heavily focused on Christian theology and it offers classical subjects like cursive, critical thinking, Latin, and rhetoric. Moreover, the co-op is parent-led, which means that the families are much more involved than in a traditional co-op. Other co-ops that specialize their curriculum include Montessori, Waldorf (nature-oriented), and special education for those with learning challenges and disabilities.
There are also enrichment programs that provide supplemental classes to children who homeschool. These co-op programs allow them to socialize, participate in fun, educational activities, and explore areas outside of their homeschool curriculum.
According to Rhema, if she had to choose, “I prefer co-op classes. It’s fun because I’ve basically had a college class schedule since 8th grade and it gives me more time to do things outside of school and gives me flexibility to choose the classes I’m interested in, which makes me more engaged.”
If you are considering joining a co-op, here’s a list of contacts and websites to reach out to for more information:
Christian Home Educators Fellowship of Greater New Orleans
chefofgnoinfo@gmail.com
(225) 725-5230
(504) 383-3676
(504) 500-0506
S.E.R.V.E. Homeschool Outreach
(504) 356-3573