Lets be real…sometimes it feels like it’s easier to do things on your own. BUT starting a homeschool group is not one of them. You need a team…a really great one that will be passionate about the mission and willing to help support and work with you to make the co-op a reality.
When I decided to start a homeschool co-op in my area, one of the most challenging aspects was finding people who were willing to put in the hours to help organize it and come to fruition. If you don’t have support and a team to help you, there is a good chance your co-op will never come to be.
When seeking a start up leadership team, look for people with the following characteristics:
Shared Vision/Mission
Do they share the same goals & ambitions as you for the co-op? Are they passionate about the mission? If you are wanting to start a faith-based co-op, do they share the same beliefs that align with the statement of faith?
Availability
This is perhaps one of the biggest things to consider…time. Do they have the availability in their schedules to set hours of their days/weeks to plan the new group? Once the group gets started, will they have enough time to do all of the work that goes into it to keep it running smoothly and plan each session?
Reliability
Are these people that say they will do things and actually follow through with it? If you will need to follow up with them to ensure they’re doing what they committed to do, or wonder if they’ll actually show up…they may not be a good fit for your leadership team.
Team Players
I have always believed strongly that a co-op (or any organization for that matter) is only as good as it’s leadership. If the core is not strong, the whole organization will suffer. Make sure that whoever joins your team is willing to work as a team, and not independently. Honestly, make sure you actually like the person…you will be spending a lot of time communicating and meeting with them! I’ve felt very blessed that my leadership team have also become some of my favorite friends! It makes all the difference when meeting together is actually fun while you plan your co-op.
Any “success” I’ve experienced with the homeschool groups I have lead have only been possible due to an amazing team leading beside me. So go out there and find yourself others who share the same vision and passion as you and make your homeschool group happen!
