LaPorte - Red Mill County Park

Frequently Asked Questions:

What ages can join Trailblazing Scholars?
We offer classes for children ages 4 through 18 in our multi-age, inclusive environment.

Is this a religious co-op?
No. Trailblazing Scholars is a secular co-op. We welcome families from all backgrounds and beliefs, and we strive to create a respectful and inclusive space for everyone.

What is your educational approach?
We follow a cooperative model where parents work together to create a rich, supportive learning environment. Children are encouraged to explore, discover, and grow at their own pace.

Do I have to teach to be part of the co-op?
No, teaching is not required—but it is encouraged! Every family is expected to take on a role that supports the group. That might mean leading a class, helping with set-up or clean-up, assisting a teacher, or contributing through behind-the-scenes planning. There’s a place for everyone, whether you love being in front of a group or prefer working in the background.

When and where do you meet?
We meet on Wednesdays at Red Mill County Park. Classes begin at 10:00 AM Central Time and follow a 12-week semester schedule. Most classes are held indoors, and we rent two buildings to accommodate both younger and older students comfortably.

Are there membership fees?
Yes. While we are 100% financially transparent for our members, we collect membership fees to cover building rental and insurance. Individual classes may also have supply fees. We hold fundraisers throughout the year to help cover supplies needed for the group. We as a group do not keep a profit, but rather return unused funds back to our members.

Do you offer a scholarship or financial support?
We have a scholarship fund available to support educational growth in creative ways. Rather than covering basic fees, our scholarship can be used toward a wide range of educational opportunities—such as materials, classes, or learning experiences. For high school students, the funds are applied toward dual credit classes at Ivy Tech. Inquire here

Are high school credit classes offered?
Yes! Some classes at the LaPorte location are designed to expand into high school credit opportunities, especially for older students who are ready to take their learning further.

Is this a drop-off program?
No. Parents stay on-site and are active participants in our community. We build this co-op together.

What if we can’t attend every week?
That’s okay! We don’t have a strict attendance policy. We understand that life happens, and we want this to be a place families choose to be, not feel obligated to attend. Just let us know if you’ll miss a day.

What happens in bad weather?
Most LaPorte classes are held indoors. We rent two buildings that allow us to continue learning even in rain or cold. Unless the weather is severe enough to make travel unsafe, we press on, sometimes with umbrellas in hand!

How do families stay connected?
We use a private Discord server where families can plan, coordinate events, ask questions, and support each other throughout their homeschool journeys.

Do I have to be a member to be involved in the group?
No! While membership is required to participate in weekly classes, field trips, and some closed events, we welcome the broader local homeschool community to join us for clubs and community gatherings. See our current clubs here

Can I sign up to be notified when membership opens or to hear about clubs and events?
Yes! Whether you're interested in joining when registration opens or just want to stay in the loop about upcoming clubs and events, we’d love to keep in touch. Click here to join our email list