Members of the P3 Crime Investigation Club carefully examine some evidence

With the practice of homeschooling on the rise, many families are searching for the perfect fit in a homeschool group in which to participate. There are several local co-ops in the Roanoke-Salem area with varying philosophies, visions and styles.

P3 Homeschool Co-op is one such group with a unique focus designed to join together like-minded families. P3, which stands for Proverbs 3, is a Christian co-op for children in pre-school through 8^th grade. “The upcoming year will be our 3^rd year in operation” says Jill Shelton of Salem, director of P3. “We plan to grow each year with our oldest kids, eventually serving high school aged children as well.” For now, the older siblings are happy to help with the teaching as well as participation in service projects that the group actively and consistently invests in.

Jennifer Snider of Cloverdale, co-director, explains what makes P3 a unique opportunity: “P3 is an enrichment co-op with a focus on Science, Service, Socializing and Supplements! P3 asked families what is the one subject that gets the most neglected in a homeschool. Moms almost unanimously answered ‘Science’ and kids answered ‘experiments.’ At P3 we agree so we have lots of fun chemistry experiments planned to pack the year full of science!”

P3 also is a service-focused co-op, encouraging families to serve others together. Next year, P3 will be serving Straight Street Ministries in downtown Roanoke. Co-op families also enjoy P3′s unique Character Talks each week as they discuss love and compassion in action.

The socializing aspect of a co-op is obvious. P3 takes it up a notch by seeking to build strong, lasting relationships. “Memory-making is key to building friendships” says Shelton. “So, with that in mind, we plan several fun field trips each year as well as family days and out of town adventure weekends. We hope to build a community of families who learn and grow together and support one another throughout the years.”

The supplements are Clubs! Each week P3 children participate in fun, interest based clubs. The middle schoolers will also begin Photography and Yearbook clubs in the Fall.

P3 Homeschool Co-op meets at centrally located New Century Community Church on Melrose Avenue, Roanoke.

For more information about P3 or to attend an open house, please see the website: www.p3homeschool.webs.com .

Submitted by Jill Shelton