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 students learn, connect, and thrive together.

Certified Teachers

We are incredibly fortunate to have certified teachers who are inspiring and transformative, all while fostering a culture of curiosity and growth.

SUFS Direct Pay Provider

Students 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 elementary and middle school students from September to May. The programs are structured into three semesters: Fall, Winter, and Spring (check out the co-op calendar here). Each day's program runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

  • Unit Study Program

    Unit studies make core subjects come alive! Through a blended learning approach, we connect math, language arts, science, and more into exciting, cohesive themes. It’s eclectic in all the best ways! Our new Jr. High group is part of this program.

    Meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

    Homeschool Co-Op

  • STEAM Program

    Dive into Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math with our hands-on, action-packed STEAM Fridays! From creative experiments to innovative projects, this program sparks curiosity and critical thinking. Get ready to explore, create, and have fun!

    Meets on Fridays

FAQs

Don't see the answer you're looking for? Reach out to us at STAcooperative@gmail.com, and we'll gladly assist you.

  • The co-op meets at the Riverview Club located in St. Augustine Shores. The address is 790 Christina Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32086.

  • 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.

    Teachers and Assistants 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.

  • The co-op's learning environment is not religious.

  • 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 tuition. From time to time we might ask you to bring something for a special activity.

  • No. The co-op is designed to supplement your homeschooling experience, not the other way around.

  • There won't be regular homework, but we may suggest light projects or research from time to time. Additionally, if students 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.

  • The co-op is designed as a drop-off program, but parents are welcome to stay anytime. The safety of our kids is paramount, so we kindly request the completion of our screening and child safety training protocols beforehand. If you plan to stay consistently, please reach out to STAcooperative@gmail.com.

  • 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!