Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers for families considering the co-op.
We want families to understand what Zion Lutheran Homeschool Co-op is, what it is not, and how parent partnership shapes the life of the community.
Program Basics
What is Zion Lutheran Homeschool Co-op?
Is this a school?
No. Zion Lutheran Homeschool Co-op is a homeschool support program. Families remain responsible for complying with California homeschool requirements, including filings, records, curriculum decisions, and legal obligations that apply to their homeschool.
Is this a drop-off program?
The co-op is built around parent partnership. Parents remain actively involved through service, communication, and shared responsibility.
What does the co-op provide?
The co-op provides shared learning opportunities, classes, electives, social connection, parent partnership, encouragement, and Christ-centered community.
What ages or grades can participate?
Age and grade offerings may depend on current enrollment, available teachers, and class planning. Families are encouraged to apply or reach out so we can talk through current options.
Faith & Values
What kind of faith commitment should families expect?
Do I have to be Lutheran?
Families do not need to already be members of Zion Lutheran Church to ask questions or apply. Participating families should understand that the co-op teaches and operates in accordance with Holy Scripture and the faithful confession of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod.
Do families need to agree with the Statement of Faith?
Participating families are asked to review and acknowledge the co-op's faith commitments as part of the enrollment process.
How does faith shape the co-op?
Faith is not an add-on. We seek to keep Christ at the center of our learning, relationships, service, discipline, and community life.
Enrollment
How does the application process work?
How do I apply?
Begin by completing the application form. After that, the co-op will follow up regarding the family interview and next steps.
Is there an application fee?
There is currently no application fee. A non-refundable registration fee is charged after acceptance and completion of required paperwork.
What happens after acceptance?
Families complete registration paperwork, submit the registration fee, and review required documents such as the Statement of Faith, Code of Conduct, liability waiver, photo/media release, and homeschool support program acknowledgement.
Are background checks required?
Yes. Background checks are part of the co-op's safety and accountability expectations.
Parent Participation
What is expected of parents?
What is the volunteer commitment?
Each family serves either 1 hour per week or 5 hours per month. This helps keep the co-op personal, affordable, safe, and well supported.
Why is parent participation required?
Parent partnership is part of what makes a co-op different. Families serve together so the community remains connected and sustainable.
Can families buy out volunteer hours?
Special circumstances may allow families to buy out volunteer hours at $100 per hour, subject to director and/or consistory discretion.
Charter Funds
Can charter funds be used?
Can charter funds pay for co-op membership?
Because Zion Lutheran Homeschool Co-op is a Christ-centered program, co-op membership and religious programming should not be presented as charter-funded services.
What should families using charter funds do?
Families using charter school funds should check directly with their charter school regarding what, if any, secular services may be eligible. Religious programming, chapel, Bible instruction, catechism, and co-op membership should not be presented as charter-funded services.
Visit & Contact
Can we talk with someone before applying?
Can I schedule a visit or tour?
Yes. Families are welcome to reach out with questions or to schedule a meeting or tour before applying.
Who should I contact?
Email pduerr@zlclodi.org or call 209-366-8372.
Still Have Questions?
We would love to connect with you.
Reach out to learn more, schedule a conversation, or begin the application process.