Formed by Faith. Strengthened in Community.
A Pastor’s Note
Education is one of the most important responsibilities entrusted to any family. It forms the foundation upon which a child will come to understand the world, engage with others, and ultimately respond to God’s call in his or her life.
Throughout history, education has taken many forms. The first government-established school in what would become the United States opened outside of Boston in 1635. Prior to that, much of what we might call “public education” found its roots in the monastic tradition, particularly from the 11th century onward, when monastic schools began opening their doors more broadly.
And yet, long before any of these developments, children were formed within the home. From the earliest days of civilization—dating back to ancient Sumer around 4,000 BC—parents have carried the primary responsibility of educating their children. In that sense, homeschooling is not a new idea at all; it is, in many ways, the historical norm.
In our own time, many families are taking a fresh look at how their children are being formed. Increasingly, parents recognize that some educational environments have moved away from a vision of the human person that is fully compatible with our Catholic faith. In many cases, God is no longer part of the conversation, and the contributions of faith—particularly the profound influence of the Church on culture and society—are often overlooked or minimized.
At the same time, while Catholic education remains a tremendous gift, it is not without its challenges. For some, the rising cost places it out of reach; for others, the integration of faith as the very foundation of the educational experience is not always as strong as it once was.
It is in this context that I am grateful for the families within our parish who have taken the initiative to begin forming a homeschool cooperative here at the Church of Saint David the King. This effort reflects a desire to support one another in providing a rich, faithful, and holistic formation for our children—one that engages the mind, strengthens character, and deepens a life rooted in Christ.
If you have never considered homeschooling, I would simply invite you to take a closer look. You may find that families who have embraced this path are not only deeply committed to their children’s education, but are also raising young people who are grounded, self-aware, and firmly rooted in their faith.
Please know of my prayers for all of our families as you seek to discern what is best for your children. Be assured that our parish stands ready to walk with you in that mission.
Below you will find more information about the homeschool cooperative and how this initiative may serve your family.
What Is a Homeschool Cooperative?
A homeschool cooperative (or “co-op”) is a collaborative community of families who come together regularly to share in the education of their children.
Rather than functioning as a traditional school, a co-op:
- Supplements what families are already doing at home
- Provides opportunities for group learning and enrichment
- Allows parents to share their time, talents, and expertise
This is not a drop-off program, but a shared effort rooted in community.
Why a Parish-Based Cooperative?
What makes a parish homeschool cooperative unique is its foundation.
Here, education is not separated from faith—it is illuminated by it.
Our goal is to foster an environment where:
- Christ remains at the center of all learning
- Children grow not only in knowledge, but in virtue
- Friendships are formed within a shared life of faith
Families are supported in their mission as the domestic Church
What Will It Look Like?
While still in development, the cooperative is expected to include:
Regular Gatherings
- Weekly meetings at the parish
Age Groupings
- Early childhood
- Elementary
- Middle school
- High School
- Nursery space for parents with babies who may need childcare while teaching/assisting
Sample Offerings
- Academic enrichment (writing, math, science labs)
- Electives (art, music, hands-on learning, possibly Latin/history)
- Faith formation (Scripture, saints, liturgical living)
Community Life
- Shared prayer
- Participation in parish life
- Social time for families
Who Is This For?
This cooperative is intended for:
- Current homeschooling families
- Families discerning homeschooling
- Families seeking a more structured, faith-filled support system
Whether you are just beginning or well-established, you are welcome.
Why Join a Homeschool Cooperative?
Homeschooling is a beautiful vocation—but it can be demanding.
A cooperative provides:
- Community and shared mission
- Group learning opportunities
- Support and encouragement for parents
- Shared responsibility in teaching
- Friendships rooted in faith
Because even the most dedicated families benefit from walking together.
Our Guiding Principles
- Faithful to the teachings of the Catholic Church
- Supportive of parents as primary educators
- Collaborative, not competitive
- Focused on both formation and education
- Rooted in authentic Christian community
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a drop-off program?
Students may not be dropped off unless another parent or designated adult has agreed to be responsible for them in their absence.
Do I have to teach?
Families contribute in different ways based on their availability and gifts.
Is there a set curriculum?
The co-op focuses on enrichment, not replacing your home curriculum.
What ages are included?
We will be serving early childhood through high school.
Can non-teaching parents participate?
Yes—families do not need to have a student enrolled in the co-op to participate. We would love to include volunteer teachers and helpers as well.
Is there a cost?
A modest fee may be required; details are forthcoming.
Get Involved
We are currently gathering interest as we prayerfully build this cooperative.
If you would like to learn more or express interest: St. Carlo’s Homeschool Co-Op Interest Form
Closing Invitation
The formation of our children is not simply about preparing them for the world—it is about preparing them for eternity.
As a parish, we look forward to walking with you in that mission.