Children learning together in a peaceful setting

Montessori & Charlotte Mason Inspired

Nurturing the Whole Child. Growing in Faith and Love for Learning.

Welcome to our community! A Christ-centered, parent-led, peaceful drop-off co-op for K–3rd grade where families come together and children learn through curiosity, creativity, and real-life experiences—twice a week.

Our Philosophy

Growing Minds with Care & Intention

At Mustard Seed Co-op, we blend the wisdom of Montessori and Charlotte Mason philosophies to create an educational experience that honors each child's unique journey.

Statement of Faith

Mustard Seed Co-op is a Christ-centered, parent-led cooperative. We believe that Jesus is Lord and our program is rooted in faith-based values. We nurture Godly character, kindness for all living things, and hands-on learning. We believe parents are the primary educators, and this co-op serves as an enrichment program to support what each child learns at home. We are a community of like-minded people.

Nature Exploration

We value time outside and will go outside in most weather, so dressing accordingly is a must. Children stay active and connected to the outdoors through movement and hands-on learning in nature.

Whole Child Approach

Every aspect of development matters—intellectual, emotional, physical, and spiritual. We nurture the complete child in a peaceful, supportive environment.

Curiosity-Driven

Following Montessori principles, we honor each child's natural curiosity. Learning emerges organically through hands-on exploration and real-life experiences.

Living Education & Fostering Friendships

Inspired by Charlotte Mason, we use living books and rich experiences to cultivate minds that think deeply and hearts that love learning, while fostering meaningful friendships along the way.

Children doing a science experiment
Children painting with watercolors

Our Approach

Learning Through Curiosity, Creativity & STEM Science Exploration

Our drop-off co-op meets twice a week, offering children the opportunity to explore, discover, and grow in a nurturing environment designed by a certified Montessori teacher.

Hands-on learning experiences
Small group activities
Phonics and reading practice
Science exploration and discovery
Art and creative expression
Writing practice
Peaceful, supportive environment

What We Offer

STEM Science Exploration & Learning Experiences

Each gathering is thoughtfully planned to include a variety of activities that nurture the whole child.

Phonics & Reading

Practice to enhance and support the phonics program you're doing at home, along with shared reading experiences that foster a love of literature.

Science & Discovery

Hands-on experiments and exploration that spark curiosity and develop critical thinking skills.

Nature & Geography Study

Nature journaling, seasonal observations, and geography exploration that help children appreciate and learn about God's creation and the world around them.

Art & Creativity

Process-focused art experiences using natural materials that encourage self-expression and fine motor development.

Our Weekly Rhythm

We gather twice a week in a peaceful, nurturing environment to cover electives like science, nature study, and art. We also work on reading skills during our co-op time.

Children don't have to keep up with a set curriculum—kids are naturally at different places with reading, and we meet them where they are.

Parents work with their child on core curriculum at home on the other days of the week, making this a true partnership between co-op and family.

Small group setting
Twice weekly sessions
9:30am – 1:30pm
Core curriculum at home
Children creating art together

Tuition & Fees

Investment in Your Child's Growth

Our tuition is paid monthly over the nine-month school year, making it easier to budget for your child's education. Families must be registered with the state as homeschoolers.

Annual Tuition

Per child for the school year

$2,295/year

Paid monthly: $255/month for 9 months

Twice-weekly drop-off sessions
Small group learning environment
Montessori & Charlotte Mason curriculum
Science, art, geography, writing & phonics

Annual Supply Fee

Kindergarten$160
1st, 2nd & 3rd Grade$175

Includes science supplies, writing curriculum for 1st-3rd grade, art supplies, and Montessori materials.

Volunteers Needed

Parent Volunteer Discount

Help in the classroom and save on tuition

25%off tuition

For parents who help 4 times a month (and more if a sub is needed)

Reduced to: $190/month

All standard tuition benefits included
Assist in the classroom 4+ times per month (and more if a sub is needed)
Background check required

Parent volunteers needed!

Apply to volunteer →

Our Community

Like-Minded Families Coming Together

"Mustard Seed Co-op was started with a simple belief: that children flourish when given the freedom to explore, the guidance to grow, and an environment that honors their natural curiosity. Drawing from Montessori training and Charlotte Mason's living education philosophy, we created a space where learning feels like the adventure it should be."

Mustard Seed Co-op is a welcoming community of like-minded families coming together to educate their children. Founded by a Montessori teacher and now partnering with other parents, we bring a deep understanding of child development, a passion for hands-on learning, and a commitment to creating peaceful, joyful learning experiences for every child who joins our community.

2x

Weekly Sessions

Small

Group Setting

100%

Hands-On Learning

Get in Touch

Ready to Join Our Community?

We'd love to welcome you to our community! Whether you have questions about our program or are ready to enroll your child, reach out and we'll get back to you soon.

Visit Us

Ashland, Virginia
We meet at a private local church
Location details provided upon inquiry

Fill out the form to request tour information!

After your tour, you can apply to join our co-op.