Everything we get asked most often, answered in one place. Don't see your question? Reach out — we're happy to talk.
About the Program
Hickory Grove Schoolhouse is a one-day-per-week homeschool co-op for children ages 8–12. It meets September through May in 6–8 week sessions, with a 1–2 week break between each session and a longer break around Christmas and Easter. There are 25 total sessions in the year. Classes take place on our family's property — in both a purpose-built indoor classroom and our outdoor spaces.
Yes. Hickory Grove Schoolhouse is a drop-off program running 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM. Parents are not required to stay.
Not exactly. While our property includes 10 acres of outdoor space, our program takes place in both a purpose-built indoor classroom (with natural light, biophilic design, and a balcony overlooking the pasture) and the outdoors. Nature is a meaningful part of every day, but it's one element of a well-rounded program — not the entire identity.
While I do not subscribe to any one particular methodology of teaching, much of what we do is closely aligned with a Charlotte Mason approach — living books, nature study, hands-on learning, and an emphasis on the whole child.
Yes! I hope to hold at least 2 children's book clubs and 2 potluck-style parties throughout the year, as well as a handful of Mom's Nights. These will give families the chance to meet and connect. Note: these are outside the cost of tuition.
Enrollment & Application
We accept children ages 8–12 who are currently homeschooled.
We keep the group intentionally small — up to 9 enrolled families in addition to our own children, for a maximum of 12 children total.
Start by submitting an inquiry through our inquiry form. We'll be in touch to schedule a casual meet-and-greet at the farm before confirming enrollment.
Tuition is $2,000 per year for the first child, $1,800 for a second child, and $1,600 for a third. Tuition is due in full prior to the start of the school year. Payment details will be provided upon enrollment confirmation. If paying in full presents a hardship, please contact Cristina directly.
Yes. The first child is $2,000 for the year, the second is $1,800, and the third is $1,600.
By agreeing to attend Hickory Grove Schoolhouse, we are reserving a spot for your child(ren), and you are committed to paying full tuition. To ensure we are the right fit, you will have up to two weeks to receive a prorated refund. Beyond that, no refunds will be granted.
Our Statement of Faith outlines the Christian beliefs that form the foundation of our community. All enrolling families are required to read and sign it prior to enrollment. You can download it directly from the Forms page.
Daily Life
A backpack or bag to transport any materials home, a healthy packed lunch (please no treats, candy, or food with dyes), and a labeled water bottle. All school supplies will be provided by HGS.
Dress appropriately for the outdoors — we spend a lot of time outside, no matter the weather. Sturdy footwear is a must; I highly recommend rain boots or hiking sandals, as the property has multiple wet spots. Please send an extra change of clothes on rainy days, and feel free to include sunscreen for your child to reapply as needed.
We go outside in nearly all weather — that's part of the program. Please dress your child appropriately for the conditions. In truly severe weather, outdoor activities move indoors. See our Policies page for full details.
No. Hickory Grove Schoolhouse is a tech-free environment for children. Please leave devices and smartwatches at home.
Logistics
Please arrive no earlier than 8:45 AM and pick up no later than 3:15 PM. We have after-school activities to get to, so your promptness is appreciated.
I understand that sniffles and sneezing here and there are part of childhood. For more serious illness, please keep your child home if they have any of the following:
Fever in the past 48 hours
Thick, green nasal mucus
Vomiting or diarrhea in the past 48 hours
Body aches or chills
Persistent wet cough
Please contact Cristina via text or email in the event that your child will be absent.