Detailed information about how LEARN and our co-ops operate can be found on our Policy page. Below are answers to our most frequently asked questions.
Have More Questions? Contact Us
Is LEARN religious?
No. We are a secular (non-religious) group that welcomes all families, regardless of religious affiliations or beliefs. We ask that all families keep this in mind in order to maintain a respectful environment for everyone.
When families participate in LEARN they agree to be respectful of others, regardless of race, color, age, irreligion/religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, marital status, military status, parenting choices, and homeschooling style.
Is there a fee to join?
Yes, to participate in Class Co-ops and Events, you must be a paid registrant. You can read about registration here. Families may also choose to enroll in co-op classes with additional supply/teacher fees. There are, however, also non-paid events that we host periodically.
We never want cost to prevent families from participating. If this is a concern, please contact us to learn about scholarship opportunities.
What’s the difference between LEARN, CIRCLE, & SCENE?
LEARN is the umbrella organization whose mission is to provide secular support and resources to homeschooling families. SCENE, SCENE West & CIRCLE are co-ops that are open to LEARN member families. SCENE and SCENE West operate twice a year and provide specific day and location class-style meetups. CIRCLE is a field-trip-style co-op that runs in trimesters and roams throughout the metro area, depending on where families plan their classes.
Get more information on our co-ops here.
What ages are the kids in the group?
LEARN families have children of all ages. This is reflected in the wide variety of classes offered through our co-ops. We also host special activities for the double-digit and teen population.
My kids aren’t school age yet, can I still participate?
Yes. LEARN offers classes and activities suitable for all ages! We welcome families wherever you are with homeschooling – whether you are just starting out, are a long-time homeschooler, use a virtual school, have children in school (exploring homeschooling or doing both homeschool and private/public schooling), or have preschool age children, and regardless of curriculum used or not.
Do we have to follow a certain curriculum or homeschool philosophy?
No. LEARN families subscribe to a wide range of educational philosophies. LEARN focuses on supporting homeschool families, and we look forward to helping you find your niche.
What time commitments are involved?
Member families have complete control on their level of involvement. You may choose to come only to a monthly meetup or teach a class in one of our co-ops! We ask that our members all volunteer in some aspect, as we are 100% volunteer run. Volunteership is customizable and when you sign up, you will be able to select the areas you’d like to help with.
Our CIRCLE co-op does require each family wishing to participate to coordinate at least one class or field trip. More information on CIRCLE classes can be found here.
Can I drop my child off at classes?
LEARN is not a drop-off organization. Unless a class specifically states that children may be dropped off, parents are expected to stay onsite with their children and available when needed.
I would love to volunteer with the group! How do I get involved?
Teaching opportunities are available through our SCENE, SCENE West & CIRCLE co-ops. There are also a number of ways to get involved behind the scenes, with events or community outreach. Contact us to learn more.
How can I see if membership in LEARN is the right fit for us?
Prospective families are encouraged to join our free Facebook community and attend a Friday Recess to get to know the community.
How do I sign up?!
SCENE/SCENE West FAQ’s
Do I have to offer a class in order to participate?
Teaching is not required for participation in SCENE & SCENE West co-ops.
When are classes?
SCENE & SCENE West co-ops take place in during the Fall & Spring. Classes are offered by parents in the community, and LEARN also brings in professional organizations (like Kansas City Chess Club). We offer classes in one-hour blocks of time, and generally have about 3-4 classes happening each hour, depending on what is offered by the community.
SCENE: Wednesdays
SCENE West: Tuesdays
**COVID changed the way we do things, leading us to expand the way we offer classes! You can view our COVID Transition Plan here**
What qualifications do I need to teach a class?
Our instructors are not required to have any specific level of education. We encourage parents and even students to coordinate classes on any topic they feel confident in leading.
How much are classes?
Class fees include a nominal fee for space rental and are otherwise determined by the teacher. Fees can range from $20-$100 depending on the teacher fee and offering.
I have more questions about SCENE/SCENE West
You can get an overview of our co-ops here. More details are provided on our policy page.
CIRCLE FAQ’s
Do I have to offer a class in order to participate?
Yes. This is only a requirement for our CIRCLE co-op. Every family must offer at least one class during a session in order to participate in CIRCLE. A class could be a field trip, a series of classes, or a one time class. Meet-up style play dates or field trips do not count.
Participating families determine the day and time of the activity they are offering. The schedule of activities changes every trimester, based on class submissions.
CIRCLE co-op is runs in trimesters throughout the year:
Summer/Fall: July – October
Fall/Winter: November – February
Spring/Summer: March – June
The planning month for each session is the month prior to when the session starts. We plan for Summer/Fall during June, for Fall/Winter during October, and for Spring/Summer during February.
How much are classes?
Prices vary based on what is offered each session. They can range from a free parent led class up to a higher priced outside instructor led class. There is a nominal fee for each class that covers PayPal fees.
I have more questions about CIRCLE
You can get an overview of our co-ops here. More details are provided on our policy page.