Frequently Asked Questions
The Community Co-op membership includes diverse homeschooling families from throughout the Chicago Area. We represent the full spectrum of those who would identify themselves as homeschoolers. A wide variety of homeschooling definitions, methodologies, and philosophies are represented. All are welcome. Members agree to be tolerant of one another.
Where do you meet?
We meet at Parkview Presbyterian Church: 641 S. Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, 60304. This is at the corner of Oak Park and Jackson. A map is available here.
What day does the co-op meet?
Thursdays, September 2008 through May 2009.
How much does it cost?
We are committed to keeping costs as low as possible. This year, the fee is $130/child per 10-12 week session.
Who's involved?
Families sign up together with at least one parent. The parent volunteers in the co-op in some capacity throughout the day, and the children take classes that the co-op is offering. (Parents will have one period off on the premises.)
What ages can attend?
Families with children from infant to 18 can participate.
Is this a drop off program?
This will not be a drop-off co-op. Families will be on the premises together throughout the day.
Why a co-op?
We are seeking for our children: community and continuity. A community of people committed to meeting weekly will help us provide that for our children, while still homeschooling according to our own family's plan. We have also found that some topics particularly lend themselves to a group setting.
Do I have to volunteer?
Yes, there are various jobs available, from leading a class to assisting with public relations.
Is my style of homeschooling respected?
We consider ourselves to be an eclectic group and hope that people of all different homeschooling philosophies feel comfortable at the co-op.
What is the co-op's homeschooling philosophy?
We don't have a single homeschooling philosophy. But our classes will be supplemental/enrichment topics and tend towards hands-on.
What topics do you offer?
We currently offer PE, art studio, writing and hands-on science.
How academic is this? I don't want to cover the same topics twice.
We are offering workshops in co-op which you are not likely doing elsewhere in the same capacity.
Can gifted kids participate?
Yes. We don't have specifically gifted classes planned. But because these are supplemental/ enrichment classes, we hope they will work for kids of various abilities.
Can my child take only one class during the day?
No. This is a full day commitment, both financially and in terms of time. One of our goals is to create community and continuity, and that requires full participation by everyone.
Is a not for profit?
Yes!
Are you affiliated with a religion?
The Community Co-op is not affiliated with a religion. We are an eclectic, tolerant group. All who homeschool are welcome.
What about my little ones?
We have a fun, fully staffed nursery. In addition, Tot PE & Art classes are offered for kids who'd like to participate.
What if my little one needs a nap?
Little ones who need a quiet, dark room at a scheduled time for nap during co-op hours will likely have a hard time napping at co-op. Parents in this situation may want to make a private arrangement outside of co-op in this case. Kids who can sleep anywhere when they are tired are welcome to take a snooze right in the nursery. A parent is also welcome to come into the nursery and help his/her child fall asleep, and/or carry him out while he is sleeping.
If my little one doesn't want to leave me, what will I do?
A quiet baby in a carseat or any child in a carrier such as a sling can join his parent in the classroom. If the child is disruptive or not in a carrier, he will need to be in the nursery. If this is likely to be an issue, it might be best to sign up for nursery duty until your child is more comfortable.
What if my older child wants me in the room all the time?
If your child's need will be on-going, we encourage you to have an official volunteer role in the classroom. If your child's need is transitional, we will be happy to work with you on how best to approach the transition.
We hope this has answered some of your basic questions about the co-op. If you have additional questions, please contact us (). We hope The Community Co-op will fill your needs for enrichment and we look forward to meeting you soon!