About Us
Reimagining Community
Reshaping Education
We understand that parents want to take an active role in their child’s education by choosing to homeschool. That’s why at The Cottonwood School we give you control. You get to choose the curriculum, the learning approaches, the extracurricular activities — all the pieces that make up your child’s holistic education. And we support you every step of the way. We pair you up with a credentialed homeschool teacher, offer hundreds of educational resources, and provide dozens of weekly activities. We infuse all of our school programs and educational offerings with Social Emotional Learning Foundations (SELF) to support the whole learner. We also include regular field trips, workshops and learning events that promote the goals of our Everybody Belongs group that lifts the voices of traditionally marginalized people. At The Cottonwood School, we connect you with a community of families pursuing home education together.
Homestudy TK-High School Pathway
At The Cottonwood School, you choose the curriculum that best fits your child — and we’re here to help!
We invite you to explore our educational offerings below.
Hybrid High School Pathway
Cottonwood College Prep Academy (CCPA) is a hybrid high school pathway that combines Montessori-inspired in-person instruction at our El Dorado Hills campus with online courses. This pathway incorporates Design Thinking, emphasizing the creation and testing of innovative solutions to tackle complex, unfamiliar challenges.
Instructional Classes Offered
Field Trips & Events Each Year
Certificated Teachers
Reshaping Education
Our Process – What to Expect
We take time to learn about you
We take time to learn about youWe are interested in your whole family. We take the time to learn about your children and each individual’s preferences, interests, and needs so we can help you choose a curriculum that fits your educational goals and philosophy.
We partner you with a credentialed teacher
We partner you with a credentialed teacherWe have more than 100 specially trained and fully credentialed homeschool teachers (HSTs). You will be partnered with an HST who will support you through your homeschooling journey. A majority of our teachers have homeschooled their own children, so they understand the unique opportunities and challenges of homeschooling.
We offer choices for instruction and enrichment
We offer choices for instruction and enrichmentEach student has access to an Instructional Budget. Families and their teachers select secular educational products, such as curriculum, technology items, supplemental enrichment materials, and field trip opportunities, as well as services, such as enrichment lessons and classes that align with their course of study. We offer expanded learning through numerous community partners. With our flexible approach, you have a choice in your child’s education.
We empower students with 1:1 technology
We empower students with 1:1 technologyAt The Cottonwood School, we invest in our students’ success with reliable, worry-free technology. Each student is provided with a Chromebook at no cost from instructional funds, ensuring every learner has the tools they need to succeed. Plus, every Chromebook comes with deductible-free warranty coverage that includes accidental damage, breakage, and full replacement, so you never have to worry.
We have homeschool teachers who work with you
We have homeschool teachers who work with youYour child’s teacher takes an active role in each student’s education. Unlike traditional classrooms where one instructor oversees dozens of students, at Cottonwood, teachers and students engage one-on-one during regular meetings.
We provide many community activities for your child
We provide many community activities for your childChoosing to homeschool opens up a new world of opportunity for you and your family. We know how fundamental community is to social and emotional development. That’s why we provide ongoing activities that bring our Cottonwood community together, such as field trips, park days, workshops, shared learning time, and other events.
Educational Philosophies
At The Cottonwood School, we support a wide variety of educational philosophies. We have Educational Design Experts who provide support, ideas, and resources specific to popular learning approaches.
Reimagining Community
Our community develops from people working together for the benefit of our children’s quality education. The Cottonwood School supports families so that you never feel alone. We provide ongoing support for parents and encourage frequent contact with our credentialed homeschool teachers.
Cottonwood Blog
Read the latest news, stories, and much more from The Cottonwood School!
Our Testimonials
Where do I start?? Our HST is amazing, and our family is so lucky to have her. She is supportive and encouraging and makes my girls feel so special.
– Misson Family
We had the same HST for six years, and she was such a gift to us. Her love, enthusiasm, caring, encouragement, empathy, knowledge… The list could go on and on!
– Baxter Family
I am grateful because our HST makes time to speak over the phone or by Zoom call whenever I need assistance. I am grateful that she cares so much about my dreams and finds ways to encourage us.
– Morales Family
Our HST has taken time to form a genuine relationship with our family and is the best resource and support!
– Maryna
