FAQ
Is SLT a Co-Op?
We consider SLT to be a homeschooling resource. Homeschool co-ops traditionally require parents to remain on-site and volunteer and/or teach classes. Most co-ops are not drop-off programs.
Is SLT a school?
No. SLT does not fit the model of a school. We do not keep attendance, health records, or grades/transcripts.
SLT is a homeschooling resource, designed to help families homeschool their children. (Our program is not intended to be an alternative to traditional schooling.)
Where does SLT meet?
The general proximity of our location is near Lambert International Ariport in St. Louis, Missouri.
Can my child(ren) visit classes at SLT to see if we like it?
Yes. Visitation days are possible and are usually scheduled in batches. Please connect with our Director, Deb Hargrove, at admin@sharedlearningtime.com to inquire about upcoming available trial days.
Do I need to complete schoolwork outside of homework for SLT?
Most likely, yes. SLT is not intended to replace or account for the entirety of any child's homeschool work. As a leader of your own homeschool in the state of Missouri, you will likely notice that there are subjects and materials not offered by SLT from which your children would benefit. It it your responsibility to know the laws and adhere to them. Our program is here to support homeschooling families by allowing them to "outsource" some, but not all, classes.
Will my child participate in standardized testing with SLT?
No. Parents may, of course, choose to pursue standardized testing for their children independently.
Does SLT keep records or grades?
We regard the family as the primary educational setting for students attending SLT. Parents are legally accountable for maintaining grades, records, and logs, as well as tracking educational hours. To assist parents in documenting daily lessons and activities, our lesson plans are designed to be user-friendly, allowing for straightforward printing and saving.
Do you have before or aftercare?
Not at this time.
What if my child is of age to be in a grade but not academically or socially ready for a grade or needs to be in a grade above?
We collaborate with parents to determine the most suitable classroom environment for their children. Potential inquiries might include:
In group settings such as religious classes, camps, or other learning activities, how does your child engage with peers?
At home, what academic level is your child working on, or what was the last grade level they completed?
Particularly for children entering kindergarten and first grade, do you believe your child can handle prolonged periods of seated, focused work with books?
If your child is socially prepared for the intended grade but not academically, in which areas do you think they might require additional support?
What if my child tests above or below their math level?
All students entering grades 2 through 8 are required to undergo an assessment. Should the assessment reveal that their academic level does not align with their current grade level, they will be able to adjust their math class placement accordingly, either advancing or stepping back a level. Math instruction for students in kindergarten through 8th grade takes place concurrently from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Typically, students begin their day by attending the math class that corresponds to their level, after which they proceed to their main classroom for the remainder of the school day.
Are you faith based and how does that show up at SLT?
From the very beginning, our identity has been rooted in faith. We hold diversity in high regard and are committed to inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all walks of life, regardless of their religious or personal convictions. Our doors are open to families with a wide array of spiritual and worldly perspectives. Our goal is to unite through our differences, allowing them to strengthen our bonds rather than divide us.
What are your discipline philosophies? How do you handle noncompliance or conflict?
Our community upholds a strict policy against unkindness. We anticipate that everyone will interact with one another with tolerance and compassion. Recognizing that we are not in an ideal world, it is inevitable that our students will err. What is crucial for us is the manner in which we confront these issues: promptly, with understanding and responsibility, and by treating each misstep or challenge as a chance to learn and improve for the future.
We hold the conviction that the families and students are the cornerstone of SLT’s success. We embody this belief by proactively fostering connections with both parents and students from the outset. Our aim is to maintain ongoing communication with parents through various touch points such as drop-off and pick-up times, emails, and social gatherings. Building relationships founded on positive classroom experiences and factual observations of student behavior is vital, as it lays the groundwork for navigating more challenging discussions when necessary.
What is your academic year? Do you have traditional school breaks?
See the 2024-2025 SLT Calendar here.
What if we go on a trip during the year and miss class?
We recognize that families who homeschool may take trips during the school year. We advise families to keep their instructors informed about the timing of these scheduled trips. It is our expectation that lesson plans will be followed as closely as possible, with particular attention given to math and writing tasks.
Can I volunteer in a class?
If you’re keen on volunteering within our classes, we have several options available:
Engage in regular, scheduled volunteering in a particular classroom, tailored to the requirements of SLT and the volunteer’s level of comfort. ●
Assist with classroom celebrations or unique occasions. ●
Participate in one of our organizational committees.
Join us on educational excursions.
Are your instructors certified teachers?
It is not mandatory for our educators to possess a formal teaching certificate. However, all of our instructors have shown proficiency in leading and managing a classroom of students effectively.