Frequently Asked Questions

Who would be interested in reading this book?

Anyone currently leading a homeschool group will learn something by reading my book. I’ve had leaders with more than 10 years of experience in leading a homeschool co-op read my book and tell me that they learned something new. Obviously anyone wanting to start a homeschool co-op now has in one book a much-needed source of advice and wisdom. And every active person in a co-op whether a volunteer teacher or leader will benefit from reading the book, especially the chapters on Leadership and Conflict.

What are some of the benefits of being in a homeschool co-op?

Group learning,
Shared experience and talent of other homeschool parents
Support for the homeschool mom & encouragement to keep homeschooling
Fun!

What are some of the disadvantages

Time
Money
Too much like school
Socialization
Others teaching your child

How can homeschool leaders avoid burnout?

Have a board (or a leadership team). You cannot do this alone. If you do you will burn out.
Make a budget
Create bylaws

What’s the number one mistake homeschool leaders make?

Trying to do too much or do it alone. Handling decisions should not be the sole responsibility of one person. Trying to “call all the shots” was one of the mistakes that Moses made. I found that sharing leadership is encouraged in the Bible. Moses was encouraged to pick leaders from among the people to help carry the burden of leadership.

What is one of the major problems a homeschool co-op leader faces?

Conflict. If you put a bunch of independent-minded, self-sufficient people in a room together, you will have differences and disagreements!

How can a leader deal with conflict?

The best way to manage conflict is to be proactive and keep tensions from growing. Many homeschool groups have instituted very clear policy manuals to avoid misunderstanding. Having conflict resolution policies and a clear mission statement can help everyone understand expectations and values. And finally through being a peacemaker. Peacemaking—which includes overlooking an offense, reconciliation, negotiation, mediation, arbitration and accountability—is the resolution method commanded by God. The goal of peacemaking is to preserve relationships and find a mutually agreeable solution.

What is needed to start a homeschool co-op?

Decide on the 4W’s –
 Who are you focusing on? Certain ages, or grades? Particular geographic locations?
 What will you offer? Academic classes or fun activities? Clubs, sports, service projects?
 Where will you meet? In a home, library, park, church or rented facility?
 When will you meet? Time and day?
And one H—How much will it cost?

What are some tips for running a homeschool co-op?

1. Know the advantages and disadvantages of co-oping.
2. Have clear and realistic expectations. Write down what you expect from a co-op experience.
3. Have a mission statement. Decide what you will do, whom you will serve, as well as when and where you will meet.
4. Get help. You cannot do this alone. If you try to do it all, you will be exhausted and frustrated.
5. Focus on your purpose. You cannot be all things for all people..
6. Make policies. Written procedures will help the group rely on a plan instead of quick decisions made while in a crisis..
7. Create a budget. Mismanaging money can be the downfall of a homeschool organization. Have a plan of where the money will come from and where it will go. Be sure to include a buffer for the unexpected.
8. Be prepared for conflict. You will have disagreements in any group of people. If you manage disagreements in a biblical way, conflict can strengthen your group
9. Delegate tasks to them that fit their skills. Do not try to do everything yourself.
10. Pray and ask God for help.

As an accountant, can you share some tips for managing the money in a homeschool co-op?

1. Appoint a treasurer
2. Have a budget
3. Open a separate checking account
4. Keep good records (start with duplicate checks)

How can a leader learn more about running a homeschool co-op?

1. Buy my book at Amazon.com
2. Visit my website www.HomeschoolCPA.com
3. Read my blog
4. Subscribe to my newsletter-Homeschool Leader on my website. It comes out quarterly