Frequently asked questions
Do you follow certain educational philosophies?
We believe in quality education. We are an eclectic group who appreciates principles from classical, Charlotte Mason, Maria Montessori, Un-schooling, and various other philosophies. We understand that each family is unique in educating at home; our goal is to support and strengthen that for each family. When we meet together, we seek to connect, strengthen, and learn in ways that are more difficult to do alone. This is a place for inspiration, expansion, and exploration, but home is the place for the core roots of education. We cannot fill that position.
How long is each semester?
12 weeks. There will be a fall and spring semester. You can refer to the calendar for more information.
How much does it cost to join?
The semester family fee is $50. Class fees range from $5-$50, but average around $15.
Is this a religious co-op?
Our classes are academic in nature. We respect the spiritual beliefs of each other and encourage conversation, open-mindedness, and charity. While using the building, we adhere to the statement of faith of the Blackfoot Christian Fellowship.
What is the atmosphere of this cooperative?
As we teach, play, and work together, we will create a secure learning atmosphere that allows people to expand their personal horizons. When we are together, we commit to being invested and act with a sense of gratitude. We revere the strengths that each person can contribute. Our hope is that each family will feel the benefits of this group outweighing the work that they give.
What will you do to maintain safety?
- All applicants and teachers will be screened with a background check.
- All classes will have at least two teachers at all times. If a teacher needs to leave the room briefly, the door will remain wide open.
- The classroom doors will remain unlocked at all times. If possible, the doors will remain ajar.
- The doors to the main building will be locked at 9:30 when class time begins.
- There will be hallway monitors assigned for each hour. These people can fill in as substitute teachers or helpers if another adult is needed.
- No form of abuse will be tolerated.
- We believe that contention is not the same as working through differences. Belittling others in any way diminishes our ability to synergize.
- We strive to be unified while unique. This means that we can work together, refine each other in good ways, and grow from our individual approaches to education and life.
- For more information, please refer to our Policies and Guide which outline these in more detail.
What makes Blackfoot Synergy Homeschool Society different than other cooperatives?
The motto of Blackfoot Synergy Homeschool Society is to “nourish growth, education, and relationships.” That refers to both student and adult growth, education, and relationships. We recognize that development is only possible in an environment where everyone commits to lift each other—in words and work.
Each adult serves as a teacher and as a contributing committee member. Committees will meet together as works best for them to maintain the function and flow of our cooperative. While there is an “Executive Committee” to ensure that legal and administrative needs are covered, there is not a “president” or “board.” This reinforces the reality that every member of the cooperative is necessary for our success.
We also emphasize building a community of middle and high school level students who can uplift each other. We expect that many of them will choose to serve as student council and/or committee members or teachers. Everyone benefits from being responsible for personal education and contribution; we want to encourage those positive opportunities.
We respect and appreciate the many wonderful cooperatives in our area. We plan to join with them for activities and workshops so that we can all “nourish growth, education, and relationships” regionally, as well as in our own cooperative.
What is the Drop-Off Program?
During the spring semester 2025, Blackfoot Synergy Homeschool Society will allow responsible students who are capable of upper level work and at least 12 years of age to be dropped off during our meeting hours. This is an experiment; it may or may not be continued in future semesters. Classes intended for younger ages are not available to drop-off students. Drop-off students cannot bring younger siblings or friends.
Being dropped off means that the student is accountable for his or her behavior and safety. Parents agree to paying a small extra fee (as they are not teaching), still serve on a committee, and fulfill cleaning assignments (1-2 times per semester). Parents are welcome to join us for any class days, field trips, showcases, and socials.
Parents also acknowledge that students are expected to arrive and leave at the appropriate times. If other adults need to wait for the child’s ride three times, then they will be invited to join us during another semester.
We want everyone who joins to understand the expectations and commitments, so that we can all receive the most benefit. Please read the Policy Guide before APPLYING HERE.
What are the age ranges?
Children can participate at their level. The age groups will be determined based on registration and membership. In general, the age groups are
- Littles (ages 2-5ish)
- 5-7
- 8-9
- 10-11
- 12+
What kind of classes will be taught?
Classes will be taught based on the specialties and interests of our teachers and the desires of our children. That may include woodwork, cooking, Shakespeare, math clubs, soap-making, arts & crafts, P.E., outdoor survival, literature, game-schooling, and more.
Is this a drop-off program? Can my kids participate without my involvement?
No. A responsible, fully-participating adult guardian must be on campus at all times with their children. Since this is a cooperative, our goal is that everyone receives more than they put in; that does require everyone to put in something, though.
Do I have to teach?
Yes. Each semester you will have the chance to teach an age group of your preference with other wonderful teachers. When you are not teaching, you will act in a supporting role in another class.
Do I have to do anything else?
Each adult member will serve in a specific role on a committee. You will know what is expected and how to succeed. In your application, you will rank your top 3 preferred roles. You can change these in later semesters. Details on each committee can be found in the Policy Guide.
Where can I find more information?
Refer to our Policy Guide. If you have further questions after reading that, please leave a note on the “Contact” tab.