Mission Statement

Queen of Angels Cooperative Academy believes in a rich and generous education, seated deeply in truth, beauty, and goodness, that nourishes the whole child - mind, body, and soul - and gently trains him up, ordering his affections to Our Lord. We seek to rebuild a thriving Catholic culture, in our community and within our Domestic Monasteries, by creating a gathering place for families to join in the Great Conversation, a warm and inviting environment that ignites the flames of wonder and fires the moral imagination. We engage in Sacred Traditions and Liturgies through an abundant and cohesive curriculum, embodying a strong Catholic identity, and immersing ourselves the Monastic Liberal Arts.

Statement of Faith

“The performance of an action is worthless in itself, if it is not done out of charity. Charity must be our motive; then everything we do, however little and insignificant, bears a rich harvest.” ~ The Imitation of Christ, Book I, Chapter 15.

As a member of the Queen of Angels Cooperative Academy, I acknowledge the authority of the Magisterium of the Catholic Church, in accordance with Holy Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the Nicene Creed.

Statement of Pedagogy

“Whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things.” ~ Philippians 4:8

Education is the transmission of Culture and the cultivation of Virtue. It is a continual feast for the soul that endures through lifelong learning. Queen of Angels Cooperative Academy has adopted a contemplative approach, known as scholé, to the Classical Liberal Arts pedagogy as it is the educational tradition and heritage of the Catholic Church.

I agree to follow the principles and methods of Classical Education as pursued by Queen of Angels Cooperative Academy in leading classes and applying the curriculum at home. I agree to continue my own education in both the Classical tradition and its methods for the benefit of my own, my child(ren)’s, and my students’ academic and spiritual formation.

Expectations of parents

“It must be borne in mind also that the obligation of the family to bring up children, includes not only religious and moral education, but physical and civic education as well, principally in so far as it touches upon religion and morality.” ~ “On Christian Education,” Pius X

Parents remain the primary educators of their children. It is tempting for parents to let their part slide because of the role of the class guides. However, if this happens, classroom dynamics quickly suffer because students tend to not be prepared for class. Specific expectations of parents are:

• Use QUACA-provided materials to keep informed of what your students are studying. Part of mastery is using quality learning materials and resources. ALL TEXTBOOKS, MATERIALS AND SYLLABI EMPLOYED BY A CLASS GUIDE MUST BE APPROVED BY THE BOARD. 

• Should you have concerns over any textbooks or materials, any topics in them, or other course content or classroom behaviors, bring these concerns to the class guide. Any changes that need to be made accordingly should be presented by the class guide to the Board for approval, so that all families can be notified and cooperate in any material change to the course, and so that new texts or materials may be vetted properly.

• Ensure students are prepared for class by asking questions about their reading; making sure the proper amount of time is spent investigating and completing notebook activities, papers, etc.; holding students to due dates; listening to students rehearse presentations; and providing additional instruction.

• Provide instruction for your students’ core language arts and mathematics education. We HIGHLY DISCOURAGE families from enrollment in other complete academic or full-day programs or tutorials (Seton, MODG, etc) as we have found the workload to be superfluous, overwhelming, and directly contrary to our goal for restful, contemplative  education.

• Arrive early to allow time to settle in and prepare for class

• Pay all fees on time

• Remain aware of and take responsibility for your student’s behaviors, upholding the rules of the group - remember, building virtue in our young people is as important as supporting their education

• Provide direct, line-of-sight supervision for your students when not in class. We are not responsible for students outside of class times. 

• One parent from each family is required to serve in some capacity, either as a board member or lead class guide (at least 1 class), for two (2) class periods on Academy days. First year members may serve as apprentice guides for both class periods.

• All participating adults must complete Virtus training through the Diocese of Gary and submit proof to the QUACA secretary prior to the start of classes in the fall.

• All participating adults must complete a background check through Protect My Ministry

• Remain at classes throughout the day - no drop offs allowed! Rhetoric students without younger siblings enrolled may be dropped off for a volunteer waiver fee (i.e. “drop off fee”). Only the primary homeschooling parent is allowed to bring students to class. The non-primary parent may substitute twice without training or background check, provided prior notice is given to the Board, but no other relatives or friends may substitute.

• Maintain records/transcripts according to your state’s laws 

Expectations of students

“It is by way of obedience that we go to God” ~ St. Benedict

• Come to class on time and prepared with work completed to the best of your ability

• Regularly and frequently review feedback provided by class guides and parents

• Revise your work based on feedback provided in the pursuit of mastery

• Be positive and encouraging to your classmates - destructive criticism, name-calling, pushing, hitting, jumping on others, etc. will not be tolerated.

• Show respect to class guides and classmates; for example, raise your hand to speak, take turns, use good manners, don’t leave the room without permission, address others with their proper name (For example, class guides can be addressed as “Mrs., Mr., Miss _____”)

• Be attentive to those teaching

• Do not bring toys or electronics, including cell phones and tablets, unless otherwise instructed by class guide. Nursery and Preschool level students may bring one comfort toy.

• Respect others’ property by asking permission to use and/or touch something that does not belong you

• Allow other students to concentrate on their work by not distracting or disrupting the class

• Clean up after yourself

• Show cheerful obedience by obeying the first time you are asked.

Expectations of class guides 

“Try to be dependable even in little things. Dependability is one of the most enviable characteristics you can possess, for it includes unselfishness, punctuality, thoughtfulness, loyalty, and charity.” ~ The Hidden Power of Kindness, pg. 18 Fr. Lovasik

Class guides are divided into teams for each academic level. Teams consist of one Board member and three lead subject guides, plus any apprentice guides. Specific expectations of class guides and teams are as follows:

• Part of mastery is using quality learning materials and resources. ALL TEXTBOOKS, MATERIALS, AND SYLLABI EMPLOYED BY A CLASS GUIDE MUST BE APPROVED BY THE BOARD. 

• Should a parent bring concerns over any textbooks or materials, any topics in them, or other course content or classroom behaviors to the class guide or should the guide have any such concerns, any changes that need to be made accordingly should be presented to the Board for approval, so that all families can be notified and cooperate in any material change to the course, and so that new texts or materials may be vetted properly.

• Design activities to aid students in reaching level goals, while promoting cross-curricular integration through historical time periods and moral themes.

• Lead guides are expected to spearhead planning & activities, while training new members who are expected to gradually take on more responsibility throughout the year.

• Teams will meet once per term with a Board Member for continuing education, to collaborate on planning activities, and to share ideas across the curriculum. All members are required to participate in the planning process and be aware of the daily plan, in case of an absence.

• Activities and homework should be planned for the entire term prior to the end of the previous term, or two weeks prior to first Academy Day.

• Homework for the entire term should be posted by week to Lesson Log in iGradePlus (online gradebook) no later than the last day of previous term, or two weeks prior to first Academy Day.

• Completion and feedback on assignments should be posted to iGradePlus no later than the day following its due date.

• Two guides (Lead or Apprentice) should stay in the classroom at all times.

• Be ready to start class on time with all materials prepared

• Teach children in a manner that is open, attractive, and gracious

• Model proper behavior by not talking to other parents during class, not checking cell phones, etc.

• Adhere to disciplinary procedures

• It is your responsibility to find a substitute class guide and provide them with materials and lesson plans needed to complete the day’s work, in the case of your absence. Board members are not able to fill in every absence.

Assessment

“He that loveth correction, loveth knowledge: but he that hateth reproof is foolish.” ~ Proverbs 12:1

Assessments are used, not as an end, but as a means to gauging mastery - the goal and expectation of all students. Mastery is built incrementally over time through much review and revision. Both parent and class guide feedback is vital to your student’s success.

Parents are expected to:

• Engage and cooperate by reviewing work at home and communicating with class guides

• Be aware of your student’s ability and adjust assignments as needed to meet the student at their learning level and help them progress appropriately

• Communicate with class guides any changes you have made to the student’s assignments

• Provide your own feedback and assessment to your student

• Review feedback provided by the class guide with your student and assist them in revising work as necessary to achieve mastery

• Adjust your student’s final grade on transcripts, as needed, bases on your own goals and expectations for your student

Class guides are expected to:

• Regularly provide clear, constructive feedback on written assignments, class discussions and activities, projects, and presentations, using means provided by QUACA as relevant to your classes

• Track and record completion of assignments in iGradePlus (online gradebook)

• Review final assessment and/or portfolio,  and recommend a mastery achievement level 

Readiness Reviews:

• Parents will make the final readiness decision.

• The parent of any student planning to level up the following year will meet with their child’s class guides and a board member during Term 4. Direct feedback on readiness will be given, as well as a review of the next level’s expectations.

• The purpose of these reviews is to assist the parents in making an informed readiness decision and provide an opportunity to address any questions or concerns regarding their student.

Readiness Guidelines and Goals

Beginner: 5-8 years

• Primary Interest: Wonder

• Primary Virtue: Charity

• Readiness Checklist:

  • Able to color & cut

  • Follows simple directions

  • Communicates needs

  • Answers basic questions

  • Sits 15 min to complete an activity

  • Cleans up after self when prompted 

• Trivium Focus:

  • Phonics

  • Handwriting

  • Read Alouds, Picture Books, & Simple Readers: Folk & Fairy Tales, Fables, & Bible Stories

  • Narration

  • Literary Characters & Setting

  • Discovery of different times & places

• Quadrivium Focus:

  • Nature Study: Observation & Inquiry

  • Basic Arithmetic

• Classroom Activities:

  • Crafts

  • Music

  • Games

  • Narration

  • Play Acting

  • Simple memorization

  • Timelines

  • Drawing

  • Nature Journal

• Home Expectations:

  • Catechism

  • Phonics

  • Handwriting

  • Narration

  • Memorization

  • Basic Arithmetic

Grammar: 8-11 years

• Primary Interest: Skill-building

• Primary Virtue: Faith & Hope

• Readiness Checklist:

  • Novice reader*

  • Gives short narrations

  • Copies a 3-sentence paragraph accurately & legibly 

  • Expresses simple opinions

  • Stays on topic while engaging in a simple conversation

  • Focuses on an activity for 30 min

  • Cleans up after self with minimal prompting

• Trivium Focus:

  • English Grammar & Spelling

  • Copywork

  • Simple textbooks, Biographies & Nonfiction, Historical Fiction

  • Written Narration

  • Literary Plot & Conflict

  • Short, Informal Research Projects

  • Overview the story of history & geography

• Quadrivium Focus:

  • Nature Study: Observation, Inquiry, & Reasoning

  • Intermediate Arithmetic

• Classroom Activities:

  • Fine & Common Arts

  • Hymns & Folk Music

  • Book of Centuries

  • Copybook

  • Informal Presentations

  • Memory Work

  • Written Narrations

  • Science Demonstrations

  • Nature Journal

• Home Expectations:

  • Catechism

  • English Grammar, Spelling, & Vocabulary

  • Written Narration

  • Memory Work

  • All History & Literature Assignments

  • Intermediate Arithmetic

*See: What are the Five Stages of Reading Development? - The Edvocate (theedadvocate.org)

Logic: 11-14 years

• Primary Interest: Reasoning

• Primary Virtue: Justice & Temperance

• Readiness Checklist:

  • Fluent, comprehending reader* (read The Hobbit)

  • Writes a 2-3 paragraph narration

  • Able to make connections between actions and motives

  • Expresses thoughts and ideas conversationally

  • Takes independent responsibility for cleaning

  • Completes majority of work independently with instruction and guidance

• Trivium Focus:

  • Latin Grammar

  • Commonplacing

  • Textbook spine, Primary Sources, Biographies, & Classic Literature

  • Literary Themes & Style

  • Material Logic

  • Progymnasmata

  • Formal Research

  • Connecting cause/effect & movement of events through time & place

• Quadrivium Focus:

  • Introduction to the Scientific Method & Lab Work

  • Life, Physical & Earth Science

  • Advanced Arithmetic

• Classroom Activities:

  • Fine & Common Arts & Music

  • Commonplace

  • Formal Presentations

  • Memorization

  • Progym exercises

  • Note-taking & Outlining

  • Socratic Discussions

  • Simple Science Labs

  • Register of Effects

• Home Expectations:

  • Catechism

  • All Assignments in Humanities, Latin, & Science

  • Language Arts support, as needed

  • Advanced Arithmetic

Rhetoric: 14-18 years

• Primary Interest: Poetics

• Primary Virtue: Fortitude & Prudence

• Readiness Checklist:

  • Maturely wrestles with challenging historical and societal topics through literature & discussion

  • Composes 3 paragraphs of descriptive and 5 paragraphs of expository writing

  • Draws connections & makes inferences from multiple sources during conversation

  • Completes majority of work independently without instruction or guidance

• Trivium Focus:

  • Latin Grammar

  • Commonplacing

  • Great Books

  • Formal Logic

  • Formal Rhetoric

  • Long- term Formal Research

  • Integrating events, ideas, and influences across the humanities & expressing conclusions clearly 

• Quadrivium Focus:

  • Formal Lab Work

  • Physics, Biology, Chemistry, & Astronomy

  • Advanced Geometry & Mathematics

• Classroom Activities:

  • Fine & Common Arts & Music

  • Commonplace

  • Formal Presentations

  • Memorization

  • Rhetorical Composition & Senior Thesis

  • Socratic Discussion

  • Formal Science Labs

  • Register of Effects

• Home Expectations:

  • Catechism

  • All Assignments in Humanities, Latin, & Science

  • Advanced Geometry & Mathematics

Dress Code

“How beautiful then is modesty and what a gem among virtues it is.” ~ St. Bernard, Confessor and Doctor of the Church

• Clothing must be clean, neat, and modest.

• No derogatory words or pictures allowed on clothing; clothing should not dishonor God or disrespect others.

• Dresses, skirts or shorts should be longer than your fingertips. Leggings are allowed ONLY under a skirt, dress, or long tunic. Tops must cover shoulders, chest, and waistline (NO skin-tight clothing, belly-buttons, cleavage, open backs, or spaghetti straps). We highly recommend that girls wear shorts underneath their dresses and skirts, since the children will be engaged in active play at times. 

• Comfortable, clean, closed-toed shoes are highly recommended

• “Natural look” makeup should only be worn to enhance the beauty of God’s children and not be worn heavily or to attract attention.

• Bring appropriate outerwear for the weather and a change of dry shoes in wet conditions

Sick Policy

“Always entrust your cause to me, my son; when the proper time comes, I will see that things turn out for the best.” ~ The Imitation of Christ, Book III, Chapter 39

• If you or a child has a fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above, vomiting, or diarrhea within 24 hours before the scheduled co-op meeting or event, please stay at home.

• If your child has a croupy cough or a colored nasal discharge, please consider keeping that child at home, especially if he/she is very young and not able to wipe his/her own nose or able to cover his/her mouth.

• This is to be taken into careful consideration due to pregnant mothers at the co-op. You know your child best. If you believe your child is sick, please err on the side of caution.
  
  

Attendance Policy

“He who is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in that which is greater: and he that is unjust in that which is little is unjust also in that which is greater.” ~ Luke 16:10

Important Dates for 2023-2024:

Academy Days: Tuesdays

Tutor Training (required for all parents): July 18

Orientation (required for Logic & Rhetoric students and parents): Aug 22

Term 1: Aug 23 - Oct 3

Term 2: Oct 11 - Nov 21

Term 3: Jan 3 - Feb 6

Term 4: Feb 14 - March 19

Term 5: April 3 - May 21
  

As a cooperative, everyone needs to be present in order to function properly. Participation is a commitment. Absences put more work on others.

• One (1) absence will be allowed per term for the family, due to illness per Sick Policy, emergency, or funeral of a close family member. Please communicate ongoing or extenuating circumstances to leadership, such as births or extended illness. 

• Planned absences must be communicated to leadership at least two (2) weeks prior. Due to the hardship that absences put on others, we ask that you try to avoid planned absences and limit them to two (2) per year. These absences will not be excused.

• It is your responsibility to find and prepare a substitute teacher in your absence.

• If a family accrues more than five (5) absences in one school year or more than two (2) unexcused planned absences, they will not be eligible for priority registration and will be required to wait till general registration is open, risking the forfeiture of their seat in the Cooperative Academy.

Inclement Weather

In the event of inclement weather, a post in the Mighty Networks group will be made alerting all members to any cancellations or delays. Due to advances in e-learning technologies, we can no longer rely on the local school's procedures for these events. Decisions will be made in coordination with traffic reports and the most rural and furthest outlying members. Further instructions for make up days and assignments will be communicated as soon as these decisions are made.

Behavior Policy

“Crux Sacra sit mihi lux” (May the Holy Cross be my light) ~ St. Benedict Medal

• Clean up after yourself; leave the building cleaner than you found it.

• Please see that all your family’s belongings are gathered before leaving the building. QUACA is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

• Be respectful of the facility’s property. You will be held accountable for any damages caused by your actions.

• No yelling. Be respectful of others working in the building by keeping your voice at an appropriate volume.

• No running or climbing indoors

• All participants (parents included) must remain in the designated area

• Every family is responsible for facility cleaning at the end of the day.

• After their classes have ended, we are not responsible for supervising students remaining on the premises.  No children should be left outdoors unsupervised, per agreement with the host parish. Children must stay within the parent’s line of sight at all times. Failure to provide supervision will result in children being required to leave campus when not in class.

Disciplinary Procedures

 “A true understanding and humble estimate of oneself is the highest and most valuable of all lessons.” ~ The Imitation of Christ, Ch. 2

The following procedures will be used for classroom disturbances:

1. Student receives one verbal warning (two for Beginner level and below)

2. Student is removed from class and escorted to his/her parent; student can return to class after that class period is finished IF escorted by a parent
   
   

As a class guide, if you encounter a student who is consistently unprepared for class or is causing regular classroom disturbances, it should be handled accordingly:

1. Talk to the parent(s) to make sure they are aware of the problem

2. Discuss with the student (outside of class) the impact being unprepared has on the class and give a verbal warning; make sure parents and leaders are alerted of the conversation

3. Have student sit off to the side or leave the room while the others do the class activity the student was not prepared for

If a problem persists, a parent must attend class with the student until class and group leaders determine that the situation is resolved.

Matters of grave infractions (as determined by the leaders) may result in immediate expulsion.

Conflict Resolution

“Arm yourself with prayer rather than a sword; wear humility rather than fine clothes.” ~ St. Dominic de Guzman

When conflict arises amongst or between students or adults within QUACA, all are encouraged to follow Biblical principles: be slow to anger and quick to forgive, overlook much, and pray before you speak or act. Concerns or complaints should first be addressed directly with the adult, or the parent of the child, with whom there is an issue. Parents should utilize mediation to help students grow in wisdom and virtue. They may request a neutral party to facilitate mediation, if needed. If the adults cannot reach a mutually agreeable and friendly resolution, we ask that they seek the help of the Board to mediate the dispute. If the issue still cannot be resolved and is causing disruption during Academy Days, all involved parties may be asked to remove themselves from QUACA for the remainder of the year.

Refund Policy

Family registration fee is NON-REFUNDABLE. Withdrawals prior to the first day of class are eligible for a 75% TUITION refund. Withdrawals after the first day of class but prior to Christmas break are eligible for a 50% TUITION refund (less deposit for a la carte classes). No refunds will be issued for withdrawals after the Christmas break. Refunds are not automatic and must be requested within 30 days of withdrawal.