When and where do classes meet?
We meet on Mondays beginning in mid-August and ending in mid-May (divided into two 16-week semesters), from 9:45 am-1:45 pm. Our classes are held in Olive Branch, MS. Exact location may be communicated upon request.
What does it mean that Beacon Hill is "loosely based on the Classical model of education?"
Our classes and curriculum materials are assigned based on the "trivium"--the three basic stages of Classical education. The grammar stage focuses on learning the basic facts and building blocks of each discipline, and lasts roughly from 1st-4th grade. The logic stage focuses on asking why and how questions and beginning to analyze material. This lasts roughly from 5th-8th grade. Finally, the rhetoric stage focuses on making connections between various disciplines, synthesizing ideas, and applying and communicating ideas. This lasts roughly from 9th-12th grade. History periods and science subjects are repeated in each of the stages, getting progressively deeper at each stage. We also study classic works of literature to correspond with the historical periods being studied.
Can I drop off my child at co-op?
No. This is not a drop-off program. This is a true cooperative, so each parent must stay on-campus and retains full responsibility of their children while they are participating.
Do I have to teach a class?
Every attending parent needs to teach or assist in at least one class or fulfill another need within the group.
Do you assign homework?
Students in 4th grade and below will have little or no homework. Students in 5th-8th grade will have some outside of class reading and occasional presentations or written projects to complete at home. Students in 9th-12th grade will complete the bulk of their work at home, with co-op time being used to discuss and dig deeper into material.
Does Beacon Hill have a belief statement?
Beacon Hill is open to members from all faith backgrounds. We do not have a set doctrinal belief statement, but we do have a values statement that can be seen here.
Will religious materials be used in class instruction?
A few of our materials come from a Christian worldview, and that may be reflected in the texts. Religion will not be explicitly taught in classes, but we welcome respectful discussions about religion.
Can I visit the co-op before joining?
We would be happy to arrange a visit--please contact us using the form below to set up a time.
Can I join mid-year?
Yes, as determined by the board. Fees will be adjusted accordingly.
Do I have to be involved in the cooperative to participate in the choir or activities?
No; cooperative, activities, and choir are separate entities and participants are welcome to choose from them as they see fit.
Do you teach evolution?
Some of the scientific materials we use present the idea of evolution in the text. We skip these sections in 8th grade and below and leave it up to the parents to determine whether or not to cover them on their own time. The texts used for high school are written by a Christian scientist, and they present a thoughtful discussion about evidence both for and against evolution. These will be studied and discussed.
What measures are taken to protect children at cooperative?
In addition to a required background check for all adults, classes will have two adults present. Children who need diaper changes or help with the bathroom will be taken to their parent. A lobby monitor watches traffic in and out of the building during co-op, and an outdoor monitor will supervise children at lunch or during other outdoor activities. All adults, including visitors, must wear a name badge provided by the co-op.
Is my child assigned to a class based on their age?
Class assignment is determined based on both parent and teacher input.