About St. Augustine Co-op

Combining the best of homeschooling and in-person learning

Tightknit & Welcoming

We care deeply about kindness and collaboration, creating a warm, supportive space where kids learn, connect, and thrive together.

Experienced Instructors

We’re incredibly fortunate to have exceptional instructors with rich professional backgrounds and formal teaching experience who inspire growth, spark curiosity, and create a thoughtful, engaging learning environment.

SUFS Direct Pay Provider

Learners with Florida State Scholarships can participate with no out-of-pocket expenses.

St. Augustine Co-op Programs

The co-op offers drop-off enrichment programs for ages 8-14 from September to May. Our main program days are:

  • Tuesdays and Thursdays: Unit Study Programs

  • Fridays: STEAM Clubs and Enrichment Classes

Unit Study Programs

  • Unit Study - Elementary (2nd-5th)

    This program brings core subjects to life through hands-on projects, collaborative learning, and interdisciplinary themes that make connections across math, language arts, science, geography, and history. Learners explore big ideas in engaging ways while building foundational skills in critical thinking, logic, creativity, and teamwork.

    Meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00am to 2:00pm

    Elementary Homeschool Co-op

  • Unit Study - Junior High (6th-8th)

    This program is a project-based learning experience. Each quarter centers on an immersive interdisciplinary theme such as entrepreneurship, local history, documentary filmmaking, or forensic investigations. Students engage in research, writing, math, and collaborative studio work, producing polished projects while building critical thinking skills, confidence, and the ability to present their ideas clearly.

    Meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:00am to 2:00pm

    Middle School Homeschool Co-Op

STEAM & Enrichment

  • STEAM Club 1

    STEAM 1 is where our youngest scientists (typically ages 8-9) dive into inquiry-based learning through simple experiments, sensory exploration, and playful “what happens if…?” testing. Learners make observations, follow their curiosity, and learn to collaborate through hands-on activities.

    Meets on Fridays from 9:00am to 11:00am

    STEAM Homeschool Co-Op

  • STEAM Club 2

    Learners (typically ages 10–14) roll up their sleeves and tackle open-ended challenges that foster independence and resilience. They plan, test, revise, and communicate their ideas through blueprints, data logs, and mini-presentations to strengthen analytical reasoning and the ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

    Meets on Fridays from Noon to 2:00pm

    STEAM Club St. Augustine

  • American Sign Language 1: Beginner

    Learners dive into ASL basics including vocabulary, fingerspelling, and simple grammar. They'll learn to introduce themselves and sign about familiar topics, as well as peek into Deaf culture and understand the role of facial expressions and body language.

    Stay tuned for schedule updates!

    Sign Language ASL Class St. Augustine

  • Mixed Media Art Studio

    This program blends artistic fundamentals, creative exploration, self-expression, and mixed-media experiences. Learners will build technical skills while discovering their own artistic voice through painting, collage, printmaking, collaborative projects, and creative experimentation.

    Meets on Fridays: Ages 8–9 from 12:00-2:00 pm and ages 10–14 from 9:00-11:00am.

    Pickleball lessons for kids St. Augustine

Example Friday Schedule:

FAQs

Don't see the answer you're looking for? Reach out to us at hello@staugustinecoop.org, and we'll be happy to help.

  • The co-op’s learning environment is not religious, and we do not provide faith-based instruction. At the same time, our programs are designed to be respectful and welcoming to families of many backgrounds, and we are mindful to avoid content that would conflict with the values of Christian families. We focus on shared values like curiosity, kindness, and community.

  • Before serving children at St. Augustine Co-op, all personnel and volunteers must:

    - Complete a screening application.
    - Pass a background check.
    - Complete a sexual abuse awareness training course.

    Many of our staff are also first-aid and CPR certified.

    These steps ensure the safety and well-being of the children in our care and maintain the trust placed in our organization by families and the community.

  • A supply list will be provided and will include items such as notebooks and pencils. Anything else needed for the co-op is included in your program costs. From time to time we might ask you to bring something for a special activity.

  • Our sessions are built around themes, hands-on projects, and guided activities that encourage curiosity, creativity, and collaboration. Instructors draw from trusted resources and their own professional experience to create engaging learning opportunities that supplement homeschool learning.

  • There won't be regular homework, but we may suggest light projects or research from time to time. If learners participate in science and history fairs, they will need to work on their projects outside of co-op.

  • No. We love our traveling families. We may even take some time to learn about where you're going or what you're doing! When you get back, kids will have the opportunity to share about their experiences.

  • Our co-op is designed as a drop-off program. For the safety and privacy of all students, only screened and approved adults may remain on-site during the day. If you have a specific need to stay or want to volunteer, please email us at hello@staugustinecoop.org.

  • At this time, we are not adequately prepared to support the needs of students who require significant support beyond general education.

  • We promote healthy lifestyle choices, and as such, we encourage parents to ensure their kids have a good breakfast before dropping them off and refrain from sending sugary treats unless it's a special occasion. Additionally, please avoid sending items containing red dyes. This helps us maintain a conducive environment for learning and supports healthy habits.

    We ask about allergies during enrollment and will let you know if there are certain foods to avoid bringing.

Meet Melissa Albanes, Director

Hi, I'm Melissa, a homeschool grad and homeschool mom here in St. Augustine. My husband, Gabe, and I have been co-homeschooling while co-working in the tech space since 2019. In other words, and like many parents, we've been human ping-pong balls! And, as it turns out, there are a few of us human ping-pong balls down here in St. Augustine, and the ability to lean on a "village" is a real need.

That's why, along with our co-op families and board of advisors, we decided to create St. Augustine Co-op. We're excited about our mission to foster an environment that supports homeschool families, helping kids master core subjects, explore their interests, and pursue their unique paths to success in a FUN and friendly setting. I hope you'll consider joining us!

We are excited about the possibility of your family joining our community!

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