FAQs
?? When & Where
Q: When and where does the co-op meet?
We meet two Fridays a month (typically 1st and 3rd Fridays) at Mountain Grove Baptist Church in Hickory, NC, from September through early May. Click here for current meeting dates.
?? What is a Co-op?
Q: Is this a private school or church school?
Nope! We’re a group of homeschooling families working together. Our co-op offers group learning in subjects that are hard to do alone at home—like science labs, drama, or group art projects.
Q: Do I still have to homeschool at home if I join?
Yes—parents remain the primary educators. Co-op helps enrich your homeschool but doesn't replace it. Parents assign and grade work, give tests, and teach core subjects like math, reading, and grammar at home (per NC homeschool law).
????? Participation & Volunteering
Q: What’s expected of parents?
Everyone helps! By enrolling, you commit to a full school year and agree to work during your children's classes—as a teacher, assistant, or support volunteer.
Q: Can I choose where I volunteer?
We try to match your skills and preferences, but flexibility is appreciated! Teaching two classes means you're off the hook for assisting. If you teach one, you'll assist in one. If you don't teach, you'll assist in two.
Q: What does an Assistant do?
Assistants support the teacher, help manage time and classroom needs, provide extra help to students, and step in when the teacher is absent.
?? Classes
Q: How are classes chosen?
Returning parents propose classes based on their interests and skills. First-year parents don't teach but assist in two classes.
Q: What’s the format—lecture or projects?
It depends on the class! Each teacher plans their own format. You can find descriptions on our Classes page.
Q: How big are the classes?
We keep classes small—typically 10–12 students—to support a strong learning environment.
Q: Can I suggest a class?
Absolutely! Returning parents are welcome to propose ideas.
?? Lunch & Breaks
Q: Is there a lunch break?
Yes! We have a 50-minute lunch between the second and third sessions. Bring lunch or order from local spots. Tables and chairs are available for everyone.
?? Cost & Enrollment
Q: How much does it cost?
We aim to keep fees affordable. See our Fees page for full details.
Some classes taught by outside instructors have additional fees, paid directly to them. All fees are non-refundable and not prorated.
Q: How do I enroll or join the waitlist?
Start by completing the Prospective Members Form. Classes fill fast, so don’t wait—even mid-year interest gets you on the waitlist for the next fall!
Q: What if we need to leave mid-year?
We get it—life happens. While we ask for a full-year commitment, we understand emergencies (like illness or a move). Please talk with the Leadership Team if something serious comes up. Please understand that cannot offer refunds.
?? Student Life
Q: Can I bring a visitor?
Yes, but please check with the Leadership Team first.
Q: Can my public school child attend on school breaks?
Yes, but only with teacher permission. Extra students can be distracting, so we ask they stay with you unless pre-approved.
Q: How are classes filled?
In real-time—what you sign up for is what you get! Priority goes to families based on co-op roles (Leadership, Teachers, Assistants).
?? High School Credit
Q: Can my high schooler earn credits?
Yes—but parents are still the teachers of record. To award credit, parents should ensure their student completes all work, participates in class discussions, and does any necessary supplemental work at home.
?? Closings & Weather
Q: Are classes ever canceled?
Yes—if Catawba County Schools close due to weather, co-op is canceled. You’ll also get updates by email, Facebook, and our Remind text loop.
?? Field Trips
Q: Do you plan field trips?
Not officially—but parents are welcome to plan their own and invite others via our private Facebook group: Discovery Days Co-op Field Trips.
? Absences & Sick Policy
Q: What if I need to miss a co-op day?
Please find a substitute for every role you serve. Teachers ask their assistants to fill in; assistants contact someone from the Subsitute list. Leadership doesn’t find subs for you. If you fail to secure subs three times, your family may be asked to leave.
Q: Can I leave my kids with another parent?
In emergencies—yes. Sign out at the Fellowship Hall and list who is responsible for your children.
Q: My child is sick—should we stay home?
Yes, please! Even mild colds can spread quickly. Stay home if you or your children are sick or recovering. Help keep co-op healthy for all families.