In 2014, we were both preschool teachers at the same school here in Johnson City. We quickly became friends, and have taught together in some way ever since. In 2022, Carrie was trying to decide what do with her oldest for Kindergarten. At this time Karen had already been homeschooling her girls and loved it. We were always discussing the different school options, and how none of them really fit into what we desired for our own families. 

We had both earned our teaching degrees and had a passion for teaching. We wanted our children to get to experience some of the fun parts of public school like eating lunch with friends, field days, yearbooks, school supply shopping, etc. However, we also wanted slow mornings, school in the back yard, more family time, and God focused days. We had talked about getting together to teach each other's kids and how much fun we could have!

We could do this...and we could do this...and this...and this! The more we planned, the more amazing it sounded. We started asking each other, Why not offer this opportunity to other families? What about families that love homeschooling but could also benefit from a group setting? What about families, like Carrie's, who are just starting out on their homeschooling journey and could use extra support? What about those parents who need to work at least part time, but really want to homeschool as well?

A drop-off program for a couple of days a week would be great for them and Karen had always dreamed of teaching in a one room school house like Laura Ingalls ever since she could remember! Many times throughout the years we would joke about starting our own school. Sometimes it was just dreaming and wishful thinking but, other times we were serious about it. It all sounded so scary and impossible. After several heart-felt discussions, prayer, and sleepless nights, we both came to the same conclusion: God is calling us to start a school for our children and community where His word is honored and prioritized. One evening, Carrie called Karen with words that would change everything, "Let's do it!"

We are going to be honest with you, after that phone call, everything is kind of a blur. But God definitely put things into motion. Here we are in 2025 finishing up our third year of cottage school! God has blessed us and this school in so many ways. It is our ministry and our passion. In fact, this isn't really our story, its God's. 

~Karen and Carrie