29 Palms Christian Homeschool Co-Op

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We aim to provide fellowship, support, and encouragement for homeschooling parents and their families. We do not charge any fees and operate as an enrichment-based group. We do not follow a single homeschool philosophy or curriculum such as Charlotte Mason, classical, or traditional; instead, our families represent a wide range of homeschooling approaches and backgrounds. All of our classes are taught by parents within our co-op who adhere to our statement of faith. 

Each month follows a theme, and lessons are intentionally cross-curricular. This means we connect multiple subjects in meaningful, hands-on ways! One week this might look like cooking a recipe from scratch while practicing math skills; another week it may include a science experiment paired with outdoor relay games. Arts and crafts and illustrated picture books are often woven into our time together as well. We want each Friday your student joins us to feel intentional and purposeful. 

We average between 8-12 students per class for students in grades 1st-12th. Our preschool classes (2s and 3s and pre-kindergarten/kindergarten classes) both average 6-10 per class, but the two classes are combined for a short time at the beginning and end of class. We also provide a nursery for babies and toddlers up to -23 months, but we welcome baby-wearing and bringing littlest siblings into an older sibling’s class when the parent is supervising.

All parents complete background checks upon registration and are asked to finish an online California Mandated Reporter Training course within two months of joining the co-op. These steps help us maintain a safe and caring environment for every child.

We do not require new families to teach right away, and we never want teaching expectations to be a barrier to participation. Families who are new to the co-op or feel unsure about teaching are encouraged to connect with our leadership to explore the many non-teaching ways to serve. We do ask that all parents be willing to participate in small teaching roles—such as leading a craft, reading a story, guiding an outdoor game, or helping prepare part of a recipe. Often, our role as parents is less about formal instruction and more about facilitating learning together. In addition to the co-op roles mentioned above, there are also many opportunities to serve in our nursery. There is truly a place for every parent to contribute.

This past year, we’ve enjoyed welcoming special guests into our assembly time whenever possible. From a bluegrass musician who performed for the whole group to upcoming visits from a tow truck driver/mechanic, dentist, and a California Highway Patrol officer, these experiences enrich our community. We’re grateful for the generosity of Palms Church members and the family connections within our co-op that make these opportunities possible. We also have enjoyed a field trip as a group to the pumpkin patch at Greenspot Farms in Mentone, CA. As our co-op grows, we plan to have more fun outings and experiences.