Agape is a Christian homeschool co-op network that offers both academic and enrichment courses in our weekly program. In addition, Agape members may participate in Family Workshops, field trips, and support groups such as the Moms Bible Study. We are growing by leaps and bounds! Our close community supports one another on the homeschooling journey.

A homeschool co-op (or cooperative) is a group of families that comes together regularly to pool resources and offer academic and enrichment classes to children of all ages. By working together, we reduce costs financially. Sharing the work makes homeschooling easier for families and ultimately makes homeschooling accessible to more people.

Homeschooling is growing very quickly as parents choose to remove their children from the public school setting. Each family has their own reasons and those can be quite varied. However, the net result is an explosion in the number of families choosing to school at home. Homeschooling can be difficult, especially at the outset. By joining a co-op, the homeschooling parent gains support and guidance as well as additional educational and enrichment opportunities for the children.

Yes, there are costs. An Agape membership is $15.00 per year and includes access to the field trips, family workshops and secret Facebook page to connect and support one another. Agape offers FRIDAY SCHOOL. Friday school takes place on Friday mornings with the option of additional classes in the afternoon. Friday school is a fee of $45.00 per semester plus the additional costs per class. Parent-led classes on Friday generally only require the costs of materials. Any paid teacher classes (in the afternoon session) do have higher fees, determined by the teacher of each class. Families who want to participate in Agape events but have financial barriers may apply for assistance. We cannot promise to meet every request, but we will try to help. See a board member for more information.

Agape’s yearly membership and insurance dues are non-refundable. Friday school fees are refundable until a week prior to the start of Friday school and after that date they are no longer refundable. Any separate event that is payed for through PayPal is non-refundable, but may be transferable if you are no longer able to attend, but would like to bless another family with it.

Classes can be quite varied from semester to semester, depending on what parents volunteer to teach as well as what facilities are required. We have had academic classes ranging from Lego robotics to science, math, writing, and History. Enrichment classes have included cooking, sewing, woodworking, American Girl doll, gym, and music lessons.

Families who attend the weekly co-op are expected to contribute 2 hours to either teaching or assisting in a class. In addition, each member joins and helps on a committee of their choosing. This helps Agape run smoothly.

Currently we meet for two 10-week semesters per year for Friday school in Lake Odessa. The fall term begins in September and finishes before Thanksgiving. In the winter we usually return in January and finish before Easter. Morning classes are from 8:45am until noon, and afternoon classes run from 12:45 until 3:45. We eat lunch together in the middle.

No, you do not. However it would be more fun if you did! Generally, families attending in the morning participate in all 3 hours of class. Afternoon attendance is more individualized with some staying just for one class while others attend 3. You may come only in the morning or only in the afternoon as well.

We expect one parent to stay on campus while their children are in attendance. Not only does this help with balancing the workload and keeping kids safe, but it helps out the parents as they get to know one another and build relationships. We find that parents who participate in our Moms group feel the most connected with others.

If there was a sudden emergency and another adult was willing to be responsible for your children, then yes you could leave. This should be the exception though, and not the norm.

We call Outreach Christian Church home right now. You can find it at 7831 Jordan Lake Rd, Lake Odessa, MI 48849.

Glad you asked! Go to the FORMS tab on our website for the membership application.

Enrollment is handled through the website at particular times of the year. Once you have joined the group you will be sent information for enrolling in classes. Generally enrollment for the fall term is in July and the winter term enrollment is in December.

Currently we do not have any sports teams. There are music lessons and a choir for interested children. As we grow and get our own building, we intend to be open to homeschool sports teams on our campus.

We have our annual homeschool conference, field trips, Mom nights, family events, presentation nights, and workshops, among other things.

We have tons of support available! Whether it’s group discussions, individual encouragement (or commiseration), Bible studies, or just time to chat with other adults, you’ll find it at Agape events.

Yes! We love our teens. The teen leader is busy organizing regular get-togethers for this precious group.

The answer depends in part on the age of your children. We love to help people figure this out, so don’t hesitate to send an email asking for advice. Taking a look at the curricula others are using can be very helpful, as can discussing your individual child’s needs and learning style. Essentially, you’ll need basic school supplies and a source from which to learn. That can be anything from text books to hands-on opportunities as you see fit. Members of the group practice a wide variety of educational techniques; chances are someone will have great advice and support for you as you begin.

Michigan requires homeschoolers to teach certain subjects: mathematics, reading, English, science, and social studies in all grades. In grades 10, 11, and 12, the following subjects must also be taught: history and present form of civil government in the United States, the State of Michigan, and the political subdivisions and municipalities of the State of Michigan. As a home educator you do need to be prepared to demonstrate that you’re meeting those requirements if challenged. However, there are no formal reporting requirements at the state or local school district level. (For the record, research shows that reporting requirements do not have any effect on student achievement. Source: National Home Education Research Institute)

Agape Homeschool Group is a great place to start! Also, the Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA) has a web site with vast resources and information. We always recommend connecting with homeschoolers in your area, especially veterans with several years experience. Getting advice and support directly is, in our estimation, priceless.

Being “501(c)(3)” means that a particular nonprofit organization has been approved by the Internal Revenue Service as a tax-exempt, charitable organization. “Charitable” is broadly defined as being established for purposes that are religious, educational, charitable, scientific, literary, testing for public safety, fostering of national or international amateur sports, or prevention of cruelty to animals and children.