A diverse secular PA homeschool community
☆ Academics ☆ Enrichment ☆
☆ Social Events ☆ Field Trips ☆ Outreach ☆
☆ Thursdays ☆
Abbottstown, PA
Preschool & Kinder Prep Program,
Elementary, Middle, & High
Spring Term: April 2 - May 21 2026
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.
Pigeon Comes to Co-op: Storytime with Activities
9:30-10:20am Ages 3-6
Pigeon is coming to Co-op! Come join us for feathered chaos based on the Pigeon series by popular children’s book author, Mo Willems! Each week we will read a different story in the Pigeon series and have fun with friends engaging in different learning activities together, as well as creating fun themed art projects! All ability levels welcome, as children will be participating at their own pace! Parent support welcome. Please be on premises to assist your child with bathroom needs and emotional support when necessary. We thank you! 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 creative and has volunteered and offered Kids Crafts and Learning Corners at many festivals and conventions, like May Day and MythiCon, for the last 8 years! She's looking forward to expanding your child's knowledge in creative ways! Class Fee: $60
Spring Wonders: Seeds, Rainbows, Bugs, & Weather
10:30-11:20am Ages 3-6
Join us for a joyful journey into the wonders of spring! In this hands-on class, little learners will explore the changing season through stories, nature discovery, simple science experiments, art, and movement. Each week we’ll investigate a new spring theme — from sprouting seeds and blooming flowers to buzzing bees, baby animals, frogs, rainbows, and more. Our class rhythm includes a read-aloud, engaging hands-on activity, creative art project, and playful movement time, all designed to nurture curiosity and a love of the natural world. Spring Wonders encourages exploration, sensory learning, and community connection in a warm and playful environment. Jessica Plank has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University and a master’s degree in teaching, curriculum, and instruction from Penn State University. Jessica has taught 4th and 5th grade for 20 years. She has 2 teenage daughters who are very active in volleyball and softball, which keeps us all very busy! She enjoys reading, putting together puzzles, traveling to beachy locations, and walking! Class Fee: $60
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!
Enjoy a $10 discount if you register for our full Preschool/ Kinder Prep Program!
Clay Sculpture Studio
10:30-11:20am Ages 8-16
Join me to learn, or improve on, hand-building techniques like pinching, coiling, and slab construction while we explore different styles of sculpture. This class encourages imagination and creativity at every age! Each student will design their own unique projects, and will bring their ideas to life with individual guidance and support. All materials included (clay, glazing, and firing). This class encourages creativity, imagination, and artistic confidence in a supportive environment. Holly Davis is a "boymom" of 3 active kids (4 if you include our giant dog!), 2 of which are homeschooled. 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: $100
Discovering Pennsylvania
11:30-12:20pm Ages 7-12
In this fun and interactive class, students will explore the state of Pennsylvania and learn what makes it a special place in the United States. Through maps, timelines, and exciting facts, students will discover Pennsylvania’s geography, history, art, climate, natural resources, and famous attractions. Holly Davis is a "boymom" of 3 active kids (4 if you include our giant dog!), 2 of which are homeschooled. 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: $65
Beginning Paragraphs: Celebrating Earth Day & Spring!
12:45-1:35pm Ages 7-13
It's Spring and time to turn our sentences into paragraphs! Come explore the next step in writing, as students choose fun Earth Day & Spring season topics, and learn how to weave their ideas together with careful guidance that promotes confidence and simplicity! This is a no stress class, with Nature as our inspiration. Where students will learn as a group and focus on exciting topics of choice! Each week students will explore various styles writing, from factual to opinions, and more. We'll practice organizing our thoughts using engaging graphic organizers, and learn the secrets to a simple paragraph. Let's try it! Regardless of your writing level, we'll keep motivation and inspiration high with various spring season earthy topics. Students will practice together in class, then use the step-by-step process at home to complete their paragraph on a self-chosen topic of interest. Some students may even share their writing in next week's class, as their excitement for the topic overcomes their hesitation! This class breaks down the process into manageable steps to boost independence and confidence in our budding writers. Personal choice topics keep things fun and motivating, which is especially helpful for those hesitant or reluctant writers too! We'll even try our hand at a slideshow! The class will culminate in the creation of a group magazine edition! All writing abilities welcome for students who are able to make complete sentences. Our youngest writers will be guided through the process! Typing and talk-to-text options will be discussed for those who struggle with handwriting. Parent support at home is required for completing no stress weekly paragraph assignments. Nothing will stand in the way of our Beginning Paragraphs! Julia Hancock has been teaching students for 30 years, with a Bachelor's degree in Elementary and Middle School Education, a Master's in School Counseling, and Montessori certification. As a musician and writer, she brings energy and a creative spirit to the learning process. For the last ten years Julia has enjoyed homeschooling with her daughter and offering many clubs and classes to their local homeschool community. Class Fee: $60
Karate Club (& Taekwondo!)
2-2:30pm Ages 7-14
Let's kick it with our new Karate Club!! Now open to TEENS! Your kids will learn all the foundations of karate and some taekwondo in this fun vibrant indoor/outdoor multi-age class. Students will have the opportunity to earn a belt and even break a board! Parents are encouraged to cheer them on, after all, the family that kicks together, sticks together! There will also be uniforms for those interested in purchasing one for the class. Grant Spicka has been studying karate for 10 years at Championship Martial Arts and Taekwondo for 2 years. He earned his third degree black belt in karate. A favorite with the younger children, Grant has worked as a instructor for about 3 years. His enthusiam and zest for learning is contagious, bringing an authentic joy into everything he does. Grant also enjoys working on cars, and has taken automotive tech classes at Carroll Community College. He is in his senior year as a homeschooler and is a long time friend in our community. Class Fee: $40
Elementary:
The Power of Science: Lab Experiments with Magnetism & Electricity
10:30-11:20am Ages 9-12
Spark curiosity and power up learning in this hands-on science class exploring the invisible forces that shape our world! Students will investigate the force of magnetism, discover how magnets attract and repel, and explore how electricity flows through circuits. Through engaging experiments and interactive projects, students will build series and parallel circuits, test materials to identify conductors and insulators, and observe how magnetic fields work in action. Each class combines clear scientific concepts with real-world applications, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Perfect for upper elementary learners, this course brings physics to life in a way that is active, memorable, and fun — empowering students to understand the forces behind everyday technology. ⚡🧲 Jessica Plank has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Millersville University and a master’s degree in teaching, curriculum, and instruction from Penn State University. Jessica has taught 4th and 5th grade for 20 years. She has 2 teenage daughters who are very active in volleyball and softball, which keeps us all very busy! She enjoys reading, putting together puzzles, traveling to beachy locations, and walking! Class Fee: $65
Also consider...
Clay Sculpture Studio
10:30-11:20am Ages 8-16
(listed in the elementary section above)
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Civics: Take Me to Your Leader
11:30-12:20pm Ages 9-14
An alien just landed in your classroom and wants to be taken to Earth’s leader! But, which one? There are many types of governments and societal structures worldwide. Learn about the different kinds of societies humans have created throughout history, some of the pros and cons of each, and create your own based on what your perfect world would be! 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 creative and has volunteered and offered Kids Crafts and Learning Corners at many festivals and conventions, like May Day and MythiCon, for the last 8 years! She's looking forward to expanding your child's knowledge in creative ways! Class Fee: $60
Also consider...
Discovering Pennsylvania
11:30-12:20pm Ages 7-12
(listed in the elementary section above)
Interactive Civil War: Stories, Maps & Battles Part 2
12:45-1:35pm Ages 9-14
The Civil War is an integral part of American History. A time when brave men fought for the union army to end slavery in America. A time that changed the American landscape as well as the political landscape. The effects of which were felt for years after. In this interactive class, we’ll be continuing the discussion of the major battles of the war. Students will not only study battle strategies and battle maps, they will also create their own! We’ll also be discussing the day to day life of a soldier and the life of a civilian during the war. Field trips may also be offered on other days, weather permitting. Come join our adventure back to a time in history that should never be forgotten. Whether its building rockets and rollercoasters for science, inspiring kids to embrace physical fitness and a positive healthy lifestyle, or diving deep into the past with her love of history, Jessica Stephens is always ready to bring learning to life through exploration, projects, and a constant curiosity for how things work! Along with studying to be a fitness instructor through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Jessica has enjoyed homeschooling her children for over 20 years, being active outdoors, and travelling together. Class fee: $60
Also consider...
Beginning Paragraphs: Celebrating Earth Day & Spring!
12:45-1:35pm Ages 7-13
(in the elementary section above)
Karate Club (& Taekwondo!)
2-2:30pm Ages 7-14
Let's kick it with our new Karate Club!! Now open to TEENS! Your kids will learn all the foundations of karate and some taekwondo in this fun vibrant indoor/outdoor multi-age class. Students will have the opportunity to earn a belt and even break a board! Parents are encouraged to cheer them on, after all, the family that kicks together, sticks together! There will also be uniforms for those interested in purchasing one for the class. Grant Spicka has been studying karate for 10 years at Championship Martial Arts and Taekwondo for 2 years. He earned his third degree black belt in karate. A favorite with the younger children, Grant has worked as a instructor for about 3 years. His enthusiam and zest for learning is contagious, bringing an authentic joy into everything he does. Grant also enjoys working on cars, and has taken automotive tech classes at Carroll Community College. He is in his senior year as a homeschooler and is a long time friend in our community. Class Fee: $40
Upper Elem/Middle:
Life Sciences: Genetics
10:30-11:20am Ages12-16
(Science)
In this engaging life science class, students will explore the fascinating world of genetics and discover how traits are passed from one generation to the next. We’ll dive into Punnett squares to predict inherited traits, uncover how RNA is synthesized from DNA, and follow the process of protein synthesis to see how cells build the molecules that keep us alive. Along the way, students will investigate how mutations occur and how they can impact organisms in both small and significant ways. Through hands-on activities, interactive games, meaningful class discussions, and short homework assignments, learners will build a strong foundation in genetics while developing critical thinking skills in a fun and supportive environment. This course continues the year long exploration into Life Sciences and also fits as a single term class for new students. This course fulfills the high school requirement for .2-.5 credit, depending on the level of participation and work effort submitted by student, and parent preference for further supplement. Final grade and credits earned are determined by parent supervisor. Tania Groft has a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from York College of PA and a master’s degree in School Library and Information Technology from Mansfield University. Tania taught both sixth and fourth grade for a total of 12 years before deciding to stay home to be with her own babies. Four children, over 30 chickens, two cats, homeschooling and coaching Crossfit at a local gym keeps her on her toes, but in any free time she loves to hike, read, and travel - especially to the beach! Class Fee: $80
Also consider...
Clay Sculpture Studio
10:30-11:20am Ages 8-16
(listed in the elementary section above)
Monument Mission of WW2: The Men Who Rescued Art
(World History)
11:30-12:20pm Ages 12-16
In the midst of World War II, a group of men were given an unexpected task- a secret mission to save the world’s priceless art from the thieving Nazis. Working behind enemy lines with the French Resistance, this unlikely team put themselves in incredible danger to find and return not just art, but stolen culture. Each week students will have in class assignments relating to the topic of the day, as well as home assignments. Whether its building rockets and rollercoasters for science, inspiring kids to embrace physical fitness and a positive healthy lifestyle, or diving deep into the past with her love of history, Jessica Stephens is always ready to bring learning to life through exploration, projects, and a constant curiosity for how things work! Along with studying to be a fitness instructor through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, Jessica has enjoyed homeschooling her children for over 20 years, being active outdoors, and travelling together. Class Fee: $60
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Zombie Apocalypse: Survival Skills & Teambuilding!
12:45-1:35pm Ages 12-16
“BEEP!! BEEP!! BEEP!! Attention! This is an emergency broadcast!” Do YOU know what to do in an emergency situation? From simple accidents that happen everyday, to natural and manmade disaster scenarios that can debilitate entire regions at a time, knowing the basics of human nature, situational awareness, and critical thinking, you can be better prepared to act if or when the time comes that those skills are needed. Every week we will go over different plausible scenarios of natural and manmade disasters where they will have to work as a team to help each other through it! Think modern life Oregon Trail meets DnD, all while building knowledge and understanding of mutual aid and societal structures currently in place, building “Go Bags”, and adding to their emergency binders with information from emergency preparedness experts around the world. They will end the semester with a Zombie Apocalypse scenario and use their skills and knowledge to survive together and create a new safe settlement! Yes, to my fellow Millennial parents, there will be info on how to get out of quicksand! 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 creative and has volunteered and offered Kids Crafts and Learning Corners at many festivals and conventions, like May Day and MythiCon, for the last 8 years! She's looking forward to expanding your child's knowledge in creative ways! Class Fee: $80
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)
