FAQs

Families have a lot of questions when looking for a homeschool community. Below, we answered the questions we get most frequently. If you have other questions, please email them to charityhomeschool@gmail.com 

FAQs

Is Charity Homeschool Christian or Secular?
Charity is a Christian homeschooling group that abides by a formal Statement of Faith. While this statement of faith guides our principles, people who do not follow the Christian faith are welcome. We ask whether or not our Statement of Faith reflects your personal belief system, that all members agree to respect it at Charity activities. 

What age groups do you serve?
Children from birth through graduation are welcome to participate in Charity Homeschool. We offer enrichment classes for students from preschool through 12th grade, and a nursery so parents can participate. Our events and field trips aim to serve the broadest age ranges possible. We also aim to care for our parents as we do Moms' Nights Out, family events, and care for each other in times of need. Charity Homeschool Alumni are also welcome to continue participating as adults, with their own memberships after graduation. 

Do you have an active teen group at Charity?
Yes! Our teen group is active and growing. We offer a variety of enrichment classes during co-op for our teens, as well as activities and events when classes aren't in session. We work hard with parents to help our teen build safe, platonic relationships with as little drama as possible. We work together as a village to give our teens the best experience possible. 

Where does Charity meet for classes?
Charity meets at a church in the Penfield area for Fall and Spring enrichment classes. We do not disclose the location publicly for the safety of our families. 

When does Charity meet for classes?
Charity meets for classes on Monday afternoons for 8 weeks in the Fall and 8 weeks in the Spring. The Fall semester generally runs from September to early November, and Spring from March until early May. 

What kinds of activities do you offer?
We love opportunities to get together to learn and have fun! We try to offer several field trip options each month that are reasonably priced. We also have family and holiday events to create memories as a community. Moms are also invited to our monthly Moms' Nights Out, where we do fun activities and have dinner at a variety of locations around Rochester. New activities are always popping up, so it's important to read your weekly newsletter! 

Can I take a tour before becoming a member?
Yes! You are welcome to schedule a tour during our Monday afternoon classes if they are in session. If not, we usually have playground or library meet-ups that you can join and meet some of our families. To schedule a visit, please email charityhomeschool@gmail.com

When should I sign up for classes?
It is helpful to sign up for your full-year membership in early June or your Half-Year membership by early January, so that you can sign up for your volunteer positions first. Then, sign-ups will be sent out through our private newsletter. Class sign-up times are based on how many volunteer points you've earned. Classes tend to fill up quickly, so we encourage people to make sure they have their memberships in order. 

How much does Charity Homeschool cost?
A full-year membership costs $45 per family, and a half-year membership is $35. The cost of each 8-week class is an average of $13. This covers the supplies for the class, with an additional $3 per class covering our building usage. Families may participate in all 5 class periods or choose the number of classes that fits their budget and availability. We try to keep our classes, events, and field trips reasonably priced so they are accessible to all of our families. 

If my child is taking classes, do I have to teach?
No. We love when people can teach, but understand that it is not everyone's gift. You can earn volunteer points by doing other jobs, such as set-up, coordinating, monitoring, etc. Different jobs are worth different point values based on the level of work required. Teens and upper elementary students may also earn points for their family by helping out in some positions!

Is my neurodivergent child welcome at Charity?
Yes! We do our best to create an inclusive and loving environment for all of our families. We have many neurodivergent children and parents who attend classes and activities. Many find support and resources through our community. 

Do you require background checks?
Anyone 18+ (except students), who attends co-op classes more than 2 times is required to do a background check. Every family has one background check included with their membership, and may pay for additional checks on their own. We require background checks to be run every three years. 

Ready to join the Charity Homeschool community?