Camp Skholē FAQ

Please refer to our Handbook for more detailed information.

We are foremost a Christian program that seeks to grow Christ-like, servant-hearted, community-minded leaders, as stated in 2 Timothy 3:17: “That the man of God may be competent, equipped for every good work.”

Camp Skholē exists to support your home education. If you decide to join our community, we will partner with you to make this a successful and life-giving homeschool cooperative program.

Is Hidden Acres running Camp Skholē?

Camp Skholē operates under the umbrella of Hidden Acres. The program is directed by a member of Hidden Acres staff and guided by a volunteer committee. Teachers serve as independent contractors, carefully selected by the committee. New teachers go through an interview process with Rebeca Carpenter. While we especially value teachers who are parents with children in the program, we also welcome experienced educators who share our vision and values.

Is this considered a school? Will it replace my student’s public school experience?

No, Camp Skholē is not a school in the traditional sense. It is a cooperative program that functions under Hidden Acres’ mission: to Experience Christ, Equip Leaders, and Expand Community.

Camp Skholē offers classes for grades K–12 and events for teens and moms. Our goal is to supplement your home education by providing a shared location, structured classes, and meaningful community—all rooted in a Christian worldview.

Can I drop my child off?

For most classes and events, parents or guardians are expected to remain on campus.

• Students younger than 7th grade must have a parent or guardian present.

• Students in 7th grade and older may attend some events without a parent or guardian, provided they follow facility rules.

• The committee reserves the right to ask a parent to remain on campus if student behavior becomes an issue.

How do I join?

Please see our Registration Page for details on how to apply.

Is it hard to get into this co-op?

Because our facilities limit class sizes—and because we desire to foster a close-knit community—we carefully select the number of new families each year. Admission is based on both space availability and whether our program is a good mutual fit.

We don’t actively promote our program; most families hear about Camp Skholē through word of mouth.

Are families chosen on a first-come, first-served basis?

No. While early applications are helpful, families are not admitted solely by order received. Decisions are prayerfully made based on several factors, including:

• Family references

• Student grade levels (relative to space in classes)

• Whether the co-op is a good fit for the family’s needs

As long as all paperwork is submitted by the deadline, each new family is considered equally.

How are committee members selected?

Committee members are chosen by our Director. We seek servant-hearted leaders with a passion for seeing the program thrive. Additional committee members may be added as needs grow or as positions open.

What if I have an issue with another parent, teacher, or committee member?

We encourage families to follow biblical conflict resolution as outlined in Matthew 18:15–16. First, speak directly with the person in a loving, humble spirit. If the issue cannot be resolved, please contact our Director at rcarpenter@hiddenacres.org.

What is your illness/disease policy?

For the safety of all, students should remain home if they:

• Are unusually tired and need bed rest (common with flu)

• Have vomiting or diarrhea

• Become short of breath or wheeze

• Have a disruptive cough

• Experience significant pain (earache, headache, sore throat, injury)

• Have yellow/green eye drainage

• Break out in a concerning rash (consult your doctor)

• Have a fever over 100.5°F (must be fever-free for 24 hours before returning)

Students should also stay home if diagnosed with a contagious disease such as chickenpox, flu, strep throat, or “pinkeye.” Always consult your doctor regarding when it is safe to return.

Class Information

What grades do you offer classes for?

We aim to offer classes for K–12th grade, along with events for teens, adults, and families. Each school year may look slightly different depending on the classes proposed by teachers and approved by the committee or by the leaders willing to serve.

What types of classes will you offer?

Camp Skholē offers a variety of classes through fall and spring mini-mesters, through our OAKS Leadership Program, and events throughout the year.

Each school year’s schedule is carefully planned and released in late spring. We rotate class offerings to provide a well-rounded selection, which may include:

• Core subjects: Language Arts, Math, History, Science, Social Studies, Foreign Languages

• Fine arts: Music, Art

• Electives and enrichment options

Is my child obligated to stay in a class once signed up?

Students are not required to remain in a class if it isn’t the right fit. However, if you have registered for a class or workshop with a supply fee, you may still be responsible for a portion of that fee even if your child withdraws.

What if my family needs to withdraw mid-semester?

If a student withdraws from a class after the halfway point of the semester, full tuition for that class will still be required, even if the family withdraws from Camp Skholē entirely.

Exceptions may be made in special circumstances (e.g., medical emergencies or hospitalizations), and will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

How are classes selected each year?

The committee plans the school year schedule and finalizes it in late spring. In addition, a fall mom’s meeting is held to gather feedback and ideas for future classes.

Tuition and Fees

Fees Due at Registration

• $100 – Camp Skholē Annual Family Registration Fee

• $80 – Fall/Spring OAKS Fee ($40 per semester, per family)

Payments may be made via Camp Brain or in cash/check at registration.

• New families will receive a link to create a Camp Brain account.

• These fees are non-refundable after May 31.

Deposits for Fall & Spring Mini-Mesters

• Deposits are paid directly to teachers

• Price per class varies (see individual class descriptions)

• Deposits allow teachers to purchase supplies and prepare for classes

• Non-refundable after May 31

Fees Due by July 1

OAKS Leadership Program Teacher & Nature Guide Fees (per student, per session):

• $20 total for the 4-week session

  • $15 paid to the Character Guide

  • $5 paid to the Nature Guide

Mini-Mester Teacher Fees:

• $40 per class, per student, per semester

• Paid directly to teachers

• Non-refundable

Learn more by looking over our Program Handbook. Link below.