Frequently Asked Questions
How does registration work?
Our registration opens in May for the following school year in September. Full members register first for re-enrollment, followed by associate members. Then, we contact those on our waitlist. After that, we open registration to public applicants.
Between each session, there is a possibility to open our waitlist as families move away or decide to exit.
Is Waymakers secular?
Waymakers welcomes all families, regardless of religious affiliation. Our meetings typically begin with the Pledge of Allegiance and an optional prayer, reflecting traditions that are meaningful to many in our community. Participation is always voluntary, and we are committed to maintaining a respectful, supportive environment where every family feels welcome.
Since classes are parent-led, some parents may teach classes with religious aspects. Those classes are clearly labeled so families can make informed class enrollment decisions.
What age groups does Waymakers serve?
Full membership is open to families with at least one school-age child, age 5 or older. Younger siblings may participate in available classes beginning at age 3, and nursery care is available for children ages 2 and under. Class offerings continue through the teen years, including options for ages 13 and up.
Do parents have to teach?
Yes, but we promise, it is not as scary as it sounds. Waymakers is family run, and each family is asked to teach at least one class per year. Before teaching on your own, the board will try to place you with another family first so you can help in a class, get a feel for how things work, and ease into it. It is not always possible, but we try our hardest.
When it is your turn, you get to choose what you teach, so it can be something you already love and enjoy sharing, whether that is knitting, robotics, music, or something all your own. It is often a fun experience for both parents and kids.
What kind of classes can I teach?
At Waymakers, families are encouraged to teach classes based on their own interests, skills, and passions. That could be anything from art, music, and crafts to science, nature study, cooking, robotics, life skills, or something uniquely your own. The goal is not perfection, it is sharing something meaningful and engaging with the kids in a fun, supportive environment.
What does teaching a class involve?
Each class runs for 50 minutes each week over an 8-week period. Before the session begins, the teacher chooses the topic, age, class size and submits a class proposal. Once approved, teachers are assigned a room and an an assistant teacher.
If a teacher is unable to attend on a scheduled class day, they are responsible for making their lesson plan and class supplies available for another member that week. The board is always happy to support teachers and help make their experience as smooth as possible!
When do WayMakers sessions take place?
Waymakers offers three sessions each year, Fall, Winter, and Spring. Each session includes 8 weeks of classes, weekly field trips, 3 moms’ meetups, and one holiday party or seasonal celebration.
Our Fall session typically runs from September through November, followed by a winter break. The Winter session runs from January through March and ends for spring break. The Spring session runs from April through June, and we wrap up the year with a field day.
The fun does not stop there! Throughout the summer, families often organize impromptu lake days, playdates, and other casual get-togethers.
How can I get more involved?
Serving at Waymakers is a meaningful way to help shape the community our families are building together. Parents can get involved in many ways, from helping on committees that support events, communication, hospitality, and day-to-day needs, to serving in board positions that help guide the vision and operation of the co-op. Whether you have a little time to give or want to take on a larger leadership role, serving is a valuable way to use your strengths, support other families, and help Waymakers remain organized, welcoming, and strong.
Check out the Handbook!
In our member handbook, we include more detailed information such as guidelines, expectations, schedules and more!