Register for 2025-26 Co-op
by Aug 15th

FAQs

WHERE DO YOU MEET? We meet in and around Nashville, INDIANA, usually within an hour of town. Most events are held outdoors, but we do hold indoor events when needed. We hike and also gather for field trips, science days, crafts days, and just good old play days at local parks, libraries, churches, and private residences.

WHEN DO YOU MEET? We meet weekly from September through May, with winter and summer breaks. Co-op events are typically held on Wednesdays at 1pm, Mom-only Nights are Tuesday at 7:30pm, weekly Arts & Crafts rotate based on instructor availability, and our goal is to have Science Fridays this year. We also share about special events throughout the week/weekend and encourage families to go together.

WHAT AGES IS THIS GEARED TOWARD? BC Homeschool Co-op caters events to children ages 8-13, as this is the range of most of our children currently. If you have older students, still please feel free to join or reach out if you have questions.

CAN I BRING MY INFANT/TODDLER? Yes! Younger and older siblings are welcome, but some events and outings may not be engaging or appropriate for all ages. We will note on any events when there are age restrictions.

IS THIS A DROP-OFF PROGRAM? No. Though we do have a village mentality and enjoy letting the children free-range in many situations, caregivers are required to stay present at all events and help their child(ren) behave appropriately, follow any rules and regulations an event site may have, and be in charge of the safety of their own child(ren).

DO YOU HAVE AN ATTENDANCE REQUIREMENT? Yes and no. We ask that all members commit to attending at least two events a month, but encourage more often if possible. We do understand that there may be months plagued by illness, car problems, challenging family matters, etc. We’ve all been there!

DO YOU FOLLOW A CURRICULUM? No. We are not an academic co-op, and have members who use a diverse mix of curricula. We are an eclectic mix of homeschoolers who meet regularly to socialize, explore nature, learn through hands-on activities, grow life-skills, and engage with the community.

ARE YOU A RELIGIOUS ORGANIZATION? No. We welcome members of all faiths, and those not affiliated with any religions.

WHAT IS THE MEET & GREET? Come meet several families from the previous homeschool year that are planning to continue with the co-op, learn more information regarding what to expect, many of the coming homeschool year’s planned events, and have access to the coming homeschool year’s application before it is made public online.

WHEN IS THE MEET & GREET? There will be a yearly enrollment period beginning late July through August 15th. The Meet & Greet will be the first Wednesday in August, 6pm at Deer Run Park.

HOW ARE APPLICATIONS REVIEWED? Each application will be reviewed first by sponsored applicants (current members may sponsor prospective members), second in order of new application submissions who attended the Meet and Greet, and third by all other new applications in order of submission. We do not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, age, national origin, disability, or marital status.

IS THERE A YEARLY FEE? Yes. There is a yearly membership fee of $10 per child due by August 15th. 100% of the fees collected are spent on operating cost such as supplies for that school years’ events. Please keep in mind that even with these fees, event organizers often spend additional money out-of-pocket. While a majority of the events are covered by the membership fee, they do NOT cover the cost of programs and activities that are put on by those outside of our co-op, such as field trips to museums with fees or a professionals brought in to teach that charges for their time and supplies. Events with extra expenses are limited and all details will be listed on the Events Calendar. If you are unable to cover the fee for your children, please reach out to us at bc.in.homeschool@gmail.com for assistance.

HOW CAN I PAY MY MEMBERSHIP FEE? Cash at the Meet & Greet Event (first Wed of August) or the Book, Curriculum, and Supply Swap (third Friday in July at BC Library), or we can accept paypal or venmo. Please indicate your preference on your registration.

HOW DO YOU HANDLE CONFLICT BETWEEN THE CHILDREN? We feel it is an invaluable life-skill for children to learn how to resolve conflicts between each other, but if a conflict occurs that is beyond the child’s ability to resolve, or they feel unsafe, we want each child to feel secure and confident in the fact that they can seek sound help from any adult in the co-op.

IS THERE A CODE OF CONDUCT? Yes. We ask that all members show each other respect at all times, and work out any issues with compassion and kindness. We ask that members do not discuss political views, or other polarizing topics, at events or on the FB page. We cannot and will not tolerate adult conduct that is detrimental to the children or other adult members, such as vulgarity, verbal abuse, threats, or physical discipline or violence. Any adult member who demonstrates these behaviors will be asked to leave the co-op immediately and indefinitely. We understand that children are still learning to regulate their emotions and how to handle interpersonal relationships, so we provide them extra grace and ask that all adults respond to the children with compassion, to seek understanding of their issue, and with the goal of helping each child grow as a person. If a child continues to exhibit vulgar or dangerous behavior, they will be asked to leave to co-op until such behavior has been remedied.

IS BREASTFEEDING OK? Yes! We welcome and encourage breastfeeding mothers uncovered, covered, or those wanting to find a private place away from the group. Please note that a private place away may not always be available as many of our events are outdoors.

ARE STROLERS OK? Yes and no. Most locations will be great for strollers, though when we hike many trails are not conducive to stroller use. We will try to have hike details listed as to whether or not they will accommodate a stroller.

MY CHILD HAS A FOOD ALLERGY. HOW WILL THAT BE HANDELED? Though we try to be mindful of food allergies (currently there are usually gluten-free and dairy-free options at events with shared food), we cannot guarantee there will not be cross-contamination. We also do not regulate the types of foods our members bring for their own snacks, or to share at special events. If you or your child has a severe allergy and you would like assistance in checking ingredient lists during events, our Team will be happy to help.

DO YOU HAVE A PHOTO POLICY? We are a photo-loving group, so please note that there will most likely be pictures taken at events for personal use, and occasionally for use as a cover photo or profile picture on the PUBLIC Facebook page and PUBLIC and PRIVATE website. If you do not want your child(ren)'s photo taken please inform the Co-op Team and remind parents are each event.