Teens
Building
Lee Juvland is our teen building coordinator.
2026-2027
Class List
To participate in co-op at the teen building students must be 13 years old by the first day of co-op.
Students need to be able to listen and behave with minimal effort from teacher, interacts well with adults, able to do group work and participate in discussions, ready for more intensive classwork. They will rotate between classes throughout the day and will be able to pick the classes they wish to participate in.
Our teen classes are laid out in three 1 hour blocks. Some of our classes are a year long, while others are only a semester.
Before Classes
-
Join the teens for a brief devotion time before co-op
-
We encourage all the teens to be to co-op in time for announcements.
-
Girls only - to all who enjoys singing—no previous experience singing in a choir is necessary. The main focus will be enjoying making music! We will work on some music/vocal techniques, practice singing in parts, explore a variety of different music styles, and prepare several songs to sing at the HOPE Co-op programs in December and at the end of the year.
Cost: $10
Class Size: Any
Teacher: Susan Gosswiller - email
Susan Gosswiller has been involved in HOPE Co-op since it began. She has taught knitting, embroidery, and poetry in the teen building and has also worked at the help desk and taught Discovery in the kids’ building. Susan and her husband, Tim, live in Cokato and have 8 children (mostly grown). -
Join us as we take a deep dive into the many aspects of World War 2. Things like the rise of the Nazi Party, Pearl Harbor, D-Day, blunders, and aftermath of the war. If there is enough interest, we’ll plan on taking a field trip to the World War 2 museum in Granite Falls.
Full year
Cost: $25
My name is Joshua Sohl, I have taught gym, ancient and modern history, and logic at co-op over the years and have been a part of the hope co-op board. I have a love of history and looking at how it impacts our current world. I have always been interested in the history and stories of World War 2, and the greatest generation.
-
In this journey through John Bunyan’s classic allegory, students will explore the rich symbolism and timeless themes of the Christian life using Alan Vermilye’s revised edition. This class is designed to move beyond surface-level reading; students will utilize a comprehensive study guide to tackle reading comprehension questions and decode the imagery woven throughout the narrative. To make the most of our time together, all reading and study guide work will be completed as homework, allowing our class sessions to be dedicated entirely to group discussions and clarifying questions that arise throughout the book. The course will also include an essay assignment, providing students the opportunity to share what they have learned.
Cost: $35
Length of Class: 8 weeks (semester 1)
Teacher: Alicia Boltz
Alicia Boltz is a graphic designer by trade, but currently works as the office administrator for Fireside Fellowship. One of her favorite pastimes is reading. She is a mom of two boys and has been homeschooling for 5 years. She has been a part of Hope Coop in the past. She has taught at the kids building and served on the leadership team. She is excited for this new adventure of teaching at the teen building. -
In this novel study, students will dive into the powerful autobiography of Rifqa Bary, exploring her personal journey of faith and courage. Students will complete all reading and comprehension questions as independent assignments at home, ensuring they come to class fully prepared. This allows our class time to be dedicated to meaningful group discussions, where we can unpack the book's themes and address any questions that arise. To round out the semester, students will complete an essay assignment, allowing them to reflect on the narrative.
Cost: $35
Length of Class: 8 weeks (semester 2)Teacher: Alicia Boltz Email
Alicia Boltz is a graphic designer by trade, but currently works as the office administrator for Fireside Fellowship. One of her favorite pastimes is reading. She is a mom of two boys and has been homeschooling for 5 years. She has been a part of Hope Coop in the past. She has taught at the kids building and served on the leadership team. She is excited for this new adventure of teaching at the teen building. -
Do you know how to change a tire, make the most economical choice at the grocery store, or how to leave a reasonable tip at a restaurant? We'll explore these topics and more from the world of adulting to ensure you're ready to go out into the world as a competent, well informed member of society.
Cost: $20
Teacher: Kasy Jensen Email
I am a homeschooling mom of five. I Enjoy reading, gardening, and following my kids around to activities. Taught at multiple co-ops over the past 14 years, science, language arts, movement, nature studies. Love the Lord and serving where there is the greatest need!
-
Job seeking, job keeping skills, communication skills, problem solving, work place decision making, mock interviews, importance of first impressions, possible guest speakers, business visits and more!
Grades: 10-12
Numbers of students: at least six-limit 15
Cost: $75
Teacher: Jon Nelson
My name is Jon Nelson.
I retired last June after 18 years as the director of the Dassel Cokato Area Learning Center.
In total, I have spent 33 years teaching in alternative education.
I strongly believe in family choice when it comes to education and I am excited to offer classes through HOPE.
My favorite subjects to teach are Social Studies, Personal Safety/Fitness, and Work Experience.
-
In this class the students will learn about how to use Watercolor. And learn different techniques and styles. Color theory is also something that the students will be learning about. Each student will receive a Watercolor set, Watercolor paper, brushes and a color wheel.
Cost: $100 (supplies included)
Maximum: 12 students
Length: 8 weeks (1st Semester)Teacher: Elsie Gullings Email
Elsie loves painting and being creative whenever she can. She has been teaching after school art classes for the past two years and has found that she loves teaching others. She was homeschooled her whole childhood and teen years and loved every bit of it. She loves to spend time with her goats and other animals whenever she can. Elsie is excited to teach at HOPE Co-op this year!
-
In this class the students will learn how to mix their own colors, color theory, and mastering the Acrylic paints. They will be learning different styles of painting.
Each student will receive their own paints, brushes and a book to paint in, occasionally a canvas.
Cost: $120 person
12 students max
Teacher: Elsie Gullings Email
Elsie loves painting and being creative whenever she can. She has been teaching after school art classes for the past two years and has found that she loves teaching others. She was homeschooled her whole childhood and teen years and loved every bit of it. She loves to spend time with her goats and other animals whenever she can. Elsie is excited to teach at HOPE Co-op this year!
1st Block Classes at 9 am
2nd Block Classes at 10 am
-
It only takes seconds to make a first impression, but may take years to change a bad one.
How you conduct yourself may contribute greatly to your success in any endeavor. Proper etiquette makes a positive first and lasting impression every time. It gives confidence in knowing how to act in a variety of settings. But most importantly, we Christians have been entrusted to carry the reputation of Jesus with us. Poor etiquette and bad manners are distractions to the message we bear.
This course will be taught from a Christian worldview, using inspiration from etiquette experts. Instructive materials, hands-on experiences, and role-playing exercises, will be provided. Study topics include, personal etiquette, manners, civility, greetings, introductions, and the etiquette of an assortment of social situations. Furthermore, one class will be devoted to practicing etiquette skills while sampling foods traditionally served at a
Victorian High Tea. Fancy finger sandwiches, ornate pastries, scones, lemon curd, Devonshire cream, Tea, and more, will be offered. Feel free to dress up fancy for that day! Other potential activities (to be determined) may be planned for later in the year.
Full Year Course
Course Fee: $25
Instructor Bio:
My name is Jillian Vick, and I live in Winsted with my husband, Dan. We have four adult children, whom we homeschooled. I was a Theater major at Columbia College in Chicago, and later pursued writing. I am a retired American Airlines flight attendant. As a ministry, I worked with Stonecroft Ministries, an evangelical outreach designed to share the gospel in accordance with the Great Commission, as stated in Matthew 28:19.
-
The ideas that shaped today’s governments, economies, and moral values didn’t appear out of nowhere—they were built by bold thinkers who questioned everything. This course gives high school students a fast-paced tour of those big ideas so they can understand the world they live in and decide for themselves whether these systems deserve their support. We’ll start with Socrates, travel through major moments in Western philosophy, and end with John Locke, whose ideas helped spark modern democracy. Along the way, students will read short selections from influential thinkers and complete writing assignments that connect philosophy to real historical events and real life.
Cost:
Length of Class: Full Year
Teacher: Jeff Niedenthal email
-
In this course, high-school students will be introduced to the basic ideas of economics in a way that connects to everyday life. They will learn how people make choices about earning, spending, saving, and using resources, while also exploring important concepts such as supply and demand, competition, production, and the role of money. This course is designed to help students see how economics shapes the world around them, from family decisions to the way businesses and markets work.
Students will also look at different ways economies are organized, including market and command systems, and learn how governments influence economic life. As they explore the global economy, they will discuss both the opportunities and challenges that come with growth and change. By the end of the course, students will have a stronger understanding of how economic choices affect individuals, communities, and nations, giving them a useful foundation for thoughtful citizenship and real-world decision-making. There will be homework for this class.
Cost: $20
Text book required (digital or print – 3rd edition) from Abeka website $20-$50
Optional test book and answers available from the Abeka website
Length of Class: 16 weeks (full year)
Teacher: Tim Gosswiller tim.gosswiller@gmail.com
Tim Gosswiller has a business degree in Marketing and nearly 40 years of experience in supply chain management. Recently retired, he is eager to cultivate the next generation of educated citizens. Tim and Susan have eight children and live in Cokato where he is working on learning new skills.
-
Join us as we learn about science through independent reading, videos to watch at home, class discussion and group experiments. There will be homework for this class and graded quizzes.
We will be using the 101 series. General Science 101 takes students on a journey through the foundations of science, all from a biblical perspective. Covering Natural Science, Earth Science, Life Science, Social Science, Formal Science, and Applied Science, this course helps students see the wonders of God's creation through the truth of His Word.
Length of Class : 16 weeks (full year)
Cost: $75
Teacher : Sarah Sohl
Teacher: Sarah Sohl has a degree in plant sciences. She has enjoyed her time spent studying the sciences and how they apply to the world around her. Sarah has been homeschooling for 17 years and has 5 children. She has taught botany, chemistry, food preservation and history at Hope co-op in the past. She enjoys being outside as much as possible.
-
Put your knowledge to the test and join us for a fun-filled Trivia class! We'll divide into teams, challenge our brains, and enjoy some friendly competition as we tackle questions from a variety of categories. Whether you're a trivia expert or just looking for a good time, there's something for everyone.
Cost: $20
Teachers: Kasy Jensen/ Lee Juvland
3rd Block Classes at 11:15 am
-
In this class we will be exploring biblical archaeology through the Expedition Bible video series by Joel Kramer. Students will examine archaeological discoveries, historical settings, and biblical connections as they watch on-location videos that bring the world of Scripture to life.
Designed for high school students, this class will follow a simple and interactive format: we will watch each video together and then discuss what we learned as a group. This is a great opportunity for students to think critically, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of how archaeology can illuminate the Bible.
Cost: $5
Length of Class: 16 weeks (full year)
Teacher: Tim Gosswiller tim.gosswiller@gmail.com
Tim Gosswiller has a business degree in Marketing and nearly 40 years of experience in supply chain management. Recently retired, he is eager to cultivate the next generation of educated citizens. Tim and Susan have eight children and live in Cokato where he is working on learning new skills.
-
Forensic Science – the application of scientific principles and techniques to matters of criminal justice especially relating to the collection, examination, and analysis of physical evidence.
We will be using different areas of science to solve “crimes”, and learn about then investigative process. We will observe, organize data, and think critically, while tying in some biblical principles as well. We will focus on these ideas by exploring the different areas of science and the lab work that can go along with it.
This is a basic, beginner level class meant to pique your interest. However, we believe the skills used in forensic science are applicable to all areas of life in that they will help you to learn to think critically and logically when presented with a problem.
Cost: $50 per semester
Length of Class: 8 weeks or full year)
Class Size: 25
-
This hands-on fiber arts course introduces students to a variety of foundational textile skills, including needle felting, embroidery, and crochet. Students will build confidence while creating beautiful, functional projects they can take home and use. This course is perfect for students who enjoy working with their hands, expressing creativity, and learning lifelong skills in a fun and encouraging environment.
Throughout the semester, students will explore multiple fiber techniques, materials and methods while completing guided projects. Instruction emphasizes creativity, patience, and craftsmanship, with step-by-step support and instructional videos included for continued practice at home.
Cost: $180 (includes all materials)
Length: 8 weeks
Teacher: Allison Muonio
-
We will cover a variety of topics, including: personal safety, self defense, decision making, situational awareness, positive mental attitude, and problem solving.
We will also cover positive communication skills, personal responsibility, and positive coping skills.
My own personal background in this area includes: Participating and coaching in Golden Gloves Boxing for 16 years, as well as teaching personal safety and wellness throughout my career.
I have also worked with law enforcement and other agencies on personal safety, self defense, etc.
Cost: $75
Length of Class: 8 weeks (Spring semester)
Teacher: Jon Nelson email
My name is Jon Nelson.
I retired last June after 18 years as the director of the Dassel Cokato Area Learning Center.
In total, I have spent 33 years teaching in alternative education.
I strongly believe in family choice when it comes to education and I am excited to offer classes through HOPE.
My favorite subjects to teach are Social Studies, Personal Safety/Fitness, and Work Experience.
-
For Guys and Gals! Let’s cook and bake together, learning the basics, but also putting a meal together and enjoying it by the end of class!
Cost: $100
Length: 8 weeks (Fall Semester)
Size: Maximum of 12
Teacher: Joy Gullings, email
Wife, Mother and owner of Red Oaks Homestead.
-
Students will be making candles, face lotion and many other take home projects :)
Teacher: Joy Gullings. Email
Wife, Mother and owner of Red Oaks Homestead.