Table of Contents

Introduction

Part One: Starting a Homeschool Co-op

Chapter One: Benefits of Co-ops

Group Learning
Shared Experience of Teachers
Encouragement
Fun

Chapter Two: Disadvantages of Co-ops

Unrealistic or Unmet Expectations
Surrendering Control
Different Styles
Socialization
Time and Money Commitment
Too Much Like School

Chapter Three: Different Types of Co-ops

Small
Medium
Large
Volunteers or Paid Teachers
Not All Things for All People

Chapter Four: Your First Planning Meeting

Gathering Help
Decisions, Decisions
Expectations
Agenda for Your First Planning Meeting
The Four Ws and H: What, Who, When, Where and How Much

Chapter Five: What’s in a Name? Names, Missions and Purposes

What’s in a Name
Defining Your Mission
Limiting Your Purpose
Identifying Who You Are by Writing Bylaws
Sample Bylaws for a Homeschool Co-op

Part Two: Running a Homeschool Co-op

Chapter Six: Leadership

Why You Can’t Do This Alone
Choosing a Leadership Team
Qualifications for Leaders
Membership Requirements
Statement of Faith
Writing a Policy Manual

Chapter Seven: Co-op Offerings

Classes Based on a Curriculum
Clubs in Co-op
Classes by Age
Classes by Topic Area
Additional Activities

Chapter Eight: Money Management

Small Group Management
Medium Group Management
Preparing a Budget
Bookkeeping Basics
Large Group Management
More Information

Chapter Nine: Managing Volunteers and Conflict

Managing Volunteers
Managing Conflict

Chapter Ten: Ready for the Next Step?

Do You Need to Be a 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Organization?
Benefits of 501(c)(3) Status
Disadvantages of 501(c)(3) Status
501(c)(3) Status: Are You Ready?
Common Nonprofit Formats
Nonprofit Incorporation
Checklist
Resources

Part Three: Not Burning Out

Chapter Eleven: Avoiding Burn out

Symptoms of Burn out
Ten Ways to Avoid Burn Out
Don’t Do It All Yourself
Three Building Block for Success

About the Author

Index