The Little Way is an intentionally Catholic co-op where K-8 students participate in Mass and receive instruction in literature, music, and the Catholic faith. Join us as we learn and grow together in a friendly, fun, and faith-filled environment!
The Little Way will meet on Wednesdays from August 28th to May 14th for the 2024-25 academic year. Each week we meet at 9:00am for a family Mass at the church. Students then move to the classrooms in Hobert Hall for age specific literature instruction. This is followed by a music class or choir (on alternating weeks). At the end of the morning, all ages return to the church to pray the Angelus together. Dismissal is from the choir loft at 12:00pm.
Curriculum
Lower Elementary (K-2)
- Class I – Literature Explorers with Mrs. Davis
- Class II – Principles of Music with Mr. Smith / Choir with Mr. Youngblood
Upper Elementary (3-5)
- Class I – Readers and Books with Mr. Smith
- Class II – Principles of Music with Mr. Smith / Choir with Mr. Youngblood
Middle School (6-8)
- Class I – Advanced Literature with Mrs. Widmalm-Delphonse
- Class II – Principles of Music with Mr. Smith / Choir with Mr. Youngblood
Registration
The Little Way Homeschoolers group is committed to helping our Catholic homeschoolers grow closer to Christ, learn about their Catholic faith, and find support in a friendly community. We also strive to make this program as affordable as possible. After submitting the application form below, please wait for an email confirming that we have spots available in the program for your children.
Upon acceptance into the program, all families agree to make a $30 donation to the parish, and also to pay a $20 supply fee for each child for the Literature class. (E.g. A family with two children would pay $30 donation + $20 + $20 = $70.)
Schedule
9:00-9:40 | Family Mass
9:40-10:00 | Snack & Opening Prayer
10:00-11:15 | Literature Classes
11:15-12:00 | Music Classes or Choir*
12:00 | Angelus Prayer & Dismissal
* For music instruction we will split into two groups. Lower Elementary students will form one class. Upper Elementary and Middle School students will form another class. The two classes will have Principles of Music and Choir on alternating weeks. (E.g. On an “A” week the younger group will have Principles of Music in a classroom while the older group practices choir pieces in the choir loft. The following “B” week they switch.)
FAQ
What books will the students be reading in the literature classes?
Our teachers are planning out reading lists full of great, age-appropriate classics. The lower elementary group (K-2) will read lots of picture books together (with authors like Tad Hills, Janet Stevens, Jon Klassen, Henry Cole, and Kate DiCamillo) and the upper elementary group (3-5) will read books like Charlotte’s Web (E. B. White), The Wild Robot (Peter Brown), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory (Roald Dahl). Our Middle Schoolers will be reading books like Watership Down (Richard Adams) and Voyage of the Dawn Treader (C. S. Lewis).
Can I just drop off my child for the co-op?
We expect parents to stay and participate in the 9:00am Mass. After Mass, you will drop off your child (or children) in Hobert Hall and pick them up again at 12:00pm from the choir loft.
Can I stay at the church during co-op?
You are welcome to spend some time in prayer in the church. If it’s nice out, you might opt to be outside, sit in your car, walk at the park across the road, or spend time downtown at the local coffee shop. Parents will not be permitted downstairs in the classroom area between 9:00 AM and 12:00 PM.
I would love to teach! How might I get involved?
We would love to hear from you! Please email us about any possible openings.
Do we need to be registered members of St. Bridget of Ireland Catholic Church in order to participate in the co-op?
You do not need to be a registered member of St. Bridget, but you will find yourself attending Mass there each week through our Family Mass (9:00 AM). Our co-op is intentionally Catholic and we hope not only to nurture the faith of the children, but to strengthen our parish family as well. If you would like to register at St. Bridget, you may do so here.
When is payment due?
We ask that you make the $30 donation to the church and $20 classroom supply donation/class before the first day (August 28). This can be done at a weekend mass, or anytime through FaithDirect. The classroom fee funds the supplies, material, and curricula each teacher will need to purchase and prepare for your child. Because of this, it will be nonrefundable.
I submitted an application; when can I expect to hear back?
You should hear back from us shortly! We will be reviewing your application to make sure we still have space for the age group selected. You may contact us anytime by email.
Will the children’s choir be performing during the year?
Parents will receive dates in advance for any performances planned. (In other words, to be determined!)
How did you come up with the name, The Little Way Homeschoolers?
In our admiration of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, we are committed to providing ‘ordinary things with extraordinary love’ to our children. Like St. Thérèse, we want to show God’s goodness in all the little things we do.
How do the music classes work?
Mr. Smith will be offering two levels of our Principles of Music instruction: an introduction to musical concepts and notation for K-2, and a more advanced look at music theory for 3-8. We’ll be sending out a full description of what each course will cover and will ensure that all kids are in the proper class. All students will also participate in a choir (either younger or older) with Mr. Youngblood. The choir will have the opportunity to sing at Masses during the year.