What is a Co-op? & What Are The Benefits? BY JULIANNA STEEN PHOTO BY SENIVPETRO ON FREEPIK.COM
16 JANUARY 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM of classroom-based education with hands-on (home)work experience. Co- ops are formalized groups of families “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
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
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