A diverse secular PA homeschool community
☆ Academics ☆ Enrichment ☆
☆ Social Events ☆ Field Trips ☆ Outreach ☆
☆ Thursdays ☆
Abbottstown, PA
Preschool & Kinder Prep Program,
Elementary, Middle, & High
2026 Autumn Term: Week of Sept 14 - Nov 16th
Registration Begins: August 1
Welcome to The Homeschool Collective! Our vibrant community offers homeschool families multiple locations, on different days, each with their own set of weekly classes from which to choose! Classes are found on the day tabs at the top. Please first read about our fees and policies under the Fees tab, to better understand those details, as well as the About Us tab, for our stance on diversity, sick policy and more, to be sure we are a good fit for your family. Please use the Registration Form found on the "More" tab above to begin enrollment. Parents are welcome to enroll their children in 1 or more drop-off classes. Fees are pay per class, for the term. Once a class becomes full, a waitlist will be started. You will be notified by the email you list on your Registration Form, about class status. You may need to check your spam folder for our email. Please read about our class philosophy on the About Us Page, under the "More" tab above. We believe in the benefits of mixed age classrooms and acknowledge skills and concepts as a continuum of learning. Elementary classes include a range of activities, skills, and extension lessons in place to support all learning styles and levels. Some classes are listed as Elem/Middle or Middle/High, for a wider range of ages, and will be tailored to the majority age range. Please stay to assist your child as needed if they are struggling with completing activities, or having difficulty coping within this structured classroom environment. Also consider a partial schedule, as learning to cope in social settings can be exhausting at any age. Our minimum age on Mondays is 7yo, due to length of classes, readiness levels for structured activities, and number of students. Wednesdays & Thursdays may offer PreK/K classes for 4-6yos, and possible inclusion of ready 6yos to Elementary level classes. You are asked to supervise your child on the grounds when they are not in class. As well, a small snack between classes is advised if a child cannot wait until their schedule is finished. Masks are welcome but not required. We ask that all families stay home when recovering from illness, or wear masks when questionable, to respect the health of all families and tutors, and honor our diversity of comfort levels. PreK-5 year olds are welcome to play together outside under parent supervision.
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Animal Stories Around the World
10:30-11:20am Ages 3-6, 7-8yos welcome
Take a walk around the world with animal stories! Every culture around the world throughout history has had stories that teach them about the area’s history, culture, and even human nature through the innocent lenses of animals. Each week we will add to our Reading Passports and read an animal story, then learn about country and culture it’s from through activities and crafts! Erin Murphy has been homeschooling her children for 10 years, along with being an essential parent volunteer of The Homeschool Collective for 5 years! She attended Ottawa University for Social Services, and takes continuing education courses on environmental studies and sustainability when available. Erin loves all things fae and has offered Kids Crafts and Learning Corners at many festivals and conventions, like MythiCon and GoblinCon, for the last 8 years! She's looking forward to expanding your child's knowledge in creative ways! Class Fee: $60
Want to Offer a Class Here?
11:30-12:20pm Ages 3-6
Please do! Reach out to us with an email using the Chat Box in green below.
Let's Talk!
Preschool & Kinder prep program:
We are so excited to welcome families to our new Preschool & Kinder Prep Program!! Ages 3-6, kids will work at their ability, practicing our foundation goals of reading and math readiness, as well as social-emotional wellbeing. Every age and stage welcome!
Adults to remain on Property, and welcome in room, participating or observing.
Parents must be available to help their child with bathroom needs and emotional support. Gradual separation is encouraged, once child feels safe and comfortable.
Come be a part of our interactive morning together!
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Animal Stories Around the World
10:30-11:20am Ages 5-8
(youngers welcome)
Take a walk around the world with animal stories! Every culture around the world throughout history has had stories that teach them about the area’s history, culture, and even human nature through the innocent lenses of animals. Each week we will add to our Reading Passports and read an animal story, then learn about country and culture it’s from through activities and crafts! Erin Murphy has been homeschooling her children for 10 years, along with being an essential parent volunteer of The Homeschool Collective for 5 years! She attended Ottawa University for Social Services, and takes continuing education courses on environmental studies and sustainability when available. Erin loves all things fae and has offered Kids Crafts and Learning Corners at many festivals and conventions, like MythiCon and GoblinCon, for the last 8 years! She's looking forward to expanding your child's knowledge in creative ways! Class Fee: $60
Adventuring with Frog and Toad
11:30-12:20pm Ages 5-8
Join Frog and Toad for a cozy fall adventure through Arnold Lobel’s beloved stories! Each week, we’ll read a classic Frog and Toad tale and bring it to life with hands-on activities. Young learners will explore themes of friendship, kindness, courage, patience, and perseverance through crafts, games, sensory play, science exploration, and dramatic play. We’ll also investigate the natural world by exploring leaves, acorns, woodland animals, ponds, and signs of the fall season. Through stories and play, children will practice listening, following directions, sharing, taking turns, and working together. As a former public school teacher, Tania is so excited to continue in a teaching role this semester! She taught both sixth and fourth grade for a total of 12 years before deciding to stay home to be with her own four children. They, along with over 30 chickens, two cats, homeschooling and coaching crossfit at a local gym, keep her on her toes, but in any free time she loves to hike, read, and travel - especially to the beach! Class Fee: $60
Enjoy Lunch &
Outside Play with Friends,
under Parent Supervision
12:20-12:45pm
Exploring Female American Artists
12:45-1:35pm Ages 7-12
Discover the creativity, courage, and imagination of remarkable female American artists! In this hands-on art class, students will explore the lives and works of both famous and lesser-known women who have made their mark on the art world. Each artist will be paired with engaging books—from inspiring biographies and fascinating nonfiction to poetry and storytelling—that bring their ideas and experiences to life. Students will then create their own original artwork using a wide variety of materials and techniques, drawing inspiration from each artist's concepts, style, or creative process. Rather than copying famous works, young artists will be encouraged to experiment, express themselves, and develop their own unique artistic voice. This class celebrates creativity, curiosity, and the joy of making art while introducing students to the incredible contributions of women in American art. Holly Davis is a "boymom" of 3 active kids. She has been teaching clay for a little more than 25 years, since she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics (from Arcadia University in Glenside, PA and Glasgow School of Art in Glasgow, Scotland). Holly received her Masters in Education from Wilkes University, in Wilkes, PA. Prior to homeschooling, she taught high school Ceramics for several years. She currently teaches clay classes at Creative York. She loves "how clay directly connects us to history and the land!" Class Fee: $90
Enjoy Playtime Outside with Friends,
under Parent Supervision
1:30-2pm
Elementary:
There and Back Again: An Adventure Through the Hobbit
10:30-11:20am Ages 9-12
Step into the world of middle-earth as we journey alongside Bilbo Baggins in J.R.R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit. Over ten weeks, students will discover the characters, creatures, and landscapes of this timeless adventure while exploring the history and inspiration behind the story. Through hands-on activities, students will create themed art projects, learn about Norse mythology, decipher and write with runes, identify crystals and gemstones inspired by the treasures beneath the Lonely Mountain, and participate in games and challenges worthy of a brave adventurer. Whether your child is a lifelong Tolkien fan or meeting Bilbo for the first time, this class is sure to spark imagination and a love of literature. *Students will be expected to read or listen to two chapters per week. I will provide a free option for listening, if desired.* As a former public school teacher, Tania is so excited to continue in a teaching role this semester! She taught both sixth and fourth grade for a total of 12 years before deciding to stay home to be with her own four children. They, along with over 30 chickens, two cats, homeschooling and coaching crossfit at a local gym, keep her on her toes, but in any free time she loves to hike, read, and travel - especially to the beach! Class Fee: $70
Art and Music Studio: Exploring Famous Musicians & Artists
11:30-12:20pm Ages 9-14
Many famous artists have taken inspiration from music to create their art. Georgia O’Keefe painted using “the idea that music could be translated into something for the eye.” Kandinsky, once said “Color is the keyboard, the eyes are the harmonies, the soul is the piano with many strings”. Every week in M&A Studio students will be introduced to a new artist and musician. We will then combine the different subjects and skills together to create a piece of artwork that represents the artist and musician. This class is both creative and a great way to help kids really listen to music while encouraging them to connect with how it makes them feel. Everyone has their own response to a painting and different people might see and feel different things. This class will encourage students to trust the process and not be afraid of the outcomes. My aim is to take the students on a creative journey that combines music, art and maybe even a little spontaneous dancing! Jessica Homan is a Spiritual Mentor, Author, Artist, Poet and a proud Homeschool Mama. She loves to use her talents to inspire her clients and students to live intentional lifestyles. Jessica lives with her husband and three teenage children, where she loves swimming, gardening, meditation and being alone in nature. During the summer months she travels to the shore, as nothing makes her feel more at peace and grounded than wading in the healing energies of natural salt water. Class Fee: $75 ($65 + $10 for supplies)
Enjoy Lunch &
Outside Play with Friends,
under Parent Supervision
12:20-12:45pm
Celebrations Around the World:
Holidays, Food, & Traditions
12:45-1:35pm Ages 9-12
(olders welcome)
The world is a big place filled with many wonderful traditions. We can help strengthen our global community by bringing those rich and diverse celebrations into our children’s lives. In this class I’ll be teaching students about holidays around the world. When is Diwali? What happens during Chuseok? We will explore these and many more fall holidays as they are happening around the world. What makes the lesson even more memorable is incorporating corresponding hands-on activities and cooking projects. Some of our excited class projects will be a Diwali paper lantern, henna art, Chuseok filled rice desserts, spicy Mexican hot chocolate and much more. Finally, At the end of our Unit, we party! We will have a World Fair, in which each student will complete a fun world report on their favorite tradition. They will bring in an exhibit and bring in a food dish from their tradition of choice. Giving students the chance to showcase everything they learned and what their favorite highlights were from our time together. Jessica Homan is a Spiritual Mentor, Author, Artist, Poet and a proud Homeschool Mama. She loves to use her talents to inspire her clients and students to live intentional lifestyles. Jessica lives with her husband and three teenage children, where she loves swimming, gardening, meditation and being alone in nature. During the summer months she travels to the shore, as nothing makes her feel more at peace and grounded than wading in the healing energies of natural salt water. Class Fee: $85 ($70 + $15 for food & supplies)
Enjoy Playtime Outside with Friends,
under Parent Supervision
1:30-2pm
Upper Elem/Middle:
Level Up: Life Skills
10:30-11:20am Ages12-16
Success in school—and in life—requires more than academic knowledge. Level Up: Life Skills equips middle and high school students with the practical skills and confidence they need to navigate everyday challenges, build healthy relationships, and prepare for the future. Students will explore essential topics including social and emotional learning, goal-setting, growth mindset, communication, conflict resolution, organization, prioritization, active reading and listening, effective note-taking, information literacy, budgeting and money management, personal and digital safety, navigating peer pressure, and more. Each class blends engaging instruction with meaningful discussion, interactive activities, and real-life role-playing scenarios. Students will practice applying what they learn in a supportive environment, helping them develop confidence, critical thinking, and decision-making skills they can use at school, at home, and beyond. Whether preparing for high school, college, the workplace, or everyday life, students will leave this class with practical tools to help them thrive. Holly Davis is a "boymom" of 3 active kids! She has been teaching clay for a little more than 25 years, since she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Ceramics (from Arcadia University in Glenside, PA and Glasgow School of Art in Glasgow, Scotland). Holly received her Masters in Education from Wilkes University, in Wilkes, PA. Prior to homeschooling, she taught high school Ceramics for several years. She currently teach clay classes at Creative York. She loves "how clay directly connects us to history and the land!" Class Fee: $80
An Introduction to Archeology
(Humanities, World History)
11:30-12:20pm Ages 12-16
“Every archaeologist knows in his heart why he digs. He digs, in pity and humility, that the dead may live again, that what is past may not be forever lost, that something may be salvaged from the wreck of ages.” This quote describes what it is that draws so many to the field of archaeology, the ability to allow those who have been long forgotten to live in memory again. In this course students will learn the basics of what archaeology is, the history of it, and primarily, the methodology which we use in the field. Hi I'm Stephen Nell! I was homeschooled my whole life before starting college, and I am now a senior in college working for a bachelor's of science in anthropology, with around one semester of work before I finish my degree. I have always been fascinated by questions of the human past, and that is what eventually drew me to anthropology, and now teaching. Ideas of human behavior I believe are some of the most important to study, as they enable us to better our understanding of ourselves, as well as others. I am also a cellist, which has allowed me to have participated in multiple orchestras, and have taken classes with some amazing musicians. I believe in an applied, multidisciplinary approach to learning. I have always found that when I have been asked to apply the information I am studying, I come away with a much better understanding of it. I also have found that experience with multiple different fields of study always ends with a better understanding of underlying core concepts that would otherwise not have come to light. I hope that in taking my classes you will come to share my fascination with the nature of humanity, and can learn to apply the concepts I teach you to any field you end up pursuing. Class Fee: $ 70
Also consider...
Music & Art Studio, 11:30am
(in Middles section above)
Enjoy Lunch &
Outside Play with Friends,
under Parent Supervision
12:20-12:45pm
Math “At the Mall”: Applied Math Fun for Real Life Scenerios!
(Math)
12:45-1:35pm Ages 12-16
"When will we ever use this??!" So often said, especially in Math Class. But not this time! It's time we let the math work FOR US INSTEAD! In this fun Real World slant, students will work through scenarios, drawing from all corners of their basic math knowledge over the years. Let's brush up, clear up, and fire up on concepts that we might just need to review and even finally conquer! From money questions to lapsed time; figuring out how fast they could drive to get to the movies on time; dreaded fractions for combining Chinese takeout with friends; how much leopard rug will replace your old carpet; understanding percentage reductions on sales discounts for that coveted shopping item; and even how to tip the waiter in 10 seconds! Students will review concepts, then work together to solve the Riddle of the Week! This math review course can be applied towards math graduation requirements. Julia Hancock has been teaching students for 25 years, with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Middle School Education, Math & Science concentrations, a Master's in School Counseling, and certifications in early childhood education, music, and the Montessori method. Inspired by music, writing, and nature, she brings energy and a creative spirit to the learning process. For the last eight years Julia has enjoyed homeschooling with her daughter and offering many clubs and classes to their local homeschool community. Class Fee: $65
Also consider...
Celebrations Around the World,12:45pm
(in Middles section above)
Enjoy time Outside with Friends, under Parent Supervision,
or Teen Club
1:45 - 2:15pm
Teen Club: After lunch all teens are welcome to hang out for some Social Time! (Parents on property please)
