Your Complete Guide for Starting a Homeschool Group
The Pod Packet is an innovative option for both educators and families!
Building a successful homeschool pod
Are you a parent navigating the world of homeschooling? Do you want to provide your child with a structured, high-quality education while also giving them the benefits of a small-group learning environment? You're not alone. The idea of a homeschool pod is the perfect solution, but figuring out where to start can be overwhelming.
That's why we created The Pod Packet.
This isn't just an idea—it's a comprehensive, step-by-step manual based on the proven success of a real-world homeschool pod right here in Alpharetta, Georgia. We've done the hard work, so you don't have to. The Pod Packet is your personal blueprint for creating a dynamic and thriving learning community for your children.
A Look Inside a Successful Homeschool Pod
Imagine a typical school day in your new pod. It's a small group of engaged, focused students working on a creative project. They aren't just memorizing facts; they're learning how to collaborate, solve problems, and communicate effectively. A dedicated educator guides them, offering personalized attention that's impossible to find in a large classroom.
Later, they might be in a local orchard for a science lesson, gathering eggs, making sourdough bread, or visiting a museum for a history project. The learning environment is flexible, responsive, and tailored to the unique needs and interests of the students. They're not just getting an education; they're building a foundation for lifelong learning.
This isn't a dream. This is the reality we've helped other families create. The Pod Packet provides the tools and knowledge to make this vision a reality for you and your family. It eliminates the guesswork, the endless research, and the stress of starting from scratch.
This is your opportunity to take the lead in your child's education and give them a truly exceptional learning experience.
What’s Inside The Pod Packet?
We've organized our years of experience into six essential sections that cover every aspect of building and managing a successful homeschool pod.
Define Your Vision & Structure
Get clear on your mission, vision, and educational philosophy. We walk you through key questions to help you clarify your goals and lay a solid foundation.
Location & Calendar
Discover creative options for meeting spaces and get guidance on structuring your school year. We'll show you how to create a schedule that works for your group while staying compliant with local homeschooling guidelines.
Educator Selection
Don't know how to find the right teacher? We provide our best tips and practices for finding, interviewing, and hiring the perfect person to lead your pod.
Financial Planning
Navigate the financial side with confidence. Learn about setting tuition, managing a life skills fund, handling deposits, and more. We cover all the key financial considerations beyond the initial budget.
Operation & Communication
After establishing the pod, what comes next? We guide you in setting up clear and consistent communication, as well as operations systems to ensure a smooth school year.
Enrollment Process
Attract and recruit like-minded families. Our step-by-step coaching ensures you build a group that is aligned from the very beginning, setting everyone up for success.
Curriculum Selection
Feeling overwhelmed by endless curriculum choices? We've done the research for you. The Pod Packet includes our top curriculum recommendations for each grade level, making this daunting task the easiest part of the process.
Real Moms. Real Professionals. Real Results.
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Suzanne Phillips
Founder of Beacon Parent with extensive experience in hybrid / homeschool academy setups and
vision/ mission / culture consulting
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Emmett Marsh
DESIGN DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
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Eleanor Parks
SUSTAINABILITY DIRECTOR
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more.
The Pod Packet was created by Suzanne Phillips, Katherine Carrera, and Lauren Tatum—three moms and experienced professionals who successfully launched and led a thriving homeschool group for 6th and 7th grade girls in Alpharetta, Georgia.
This proven guide offers parents and educators a step-by-step framework for creating a homeschool group that balances structure with flexibility—supporting both academic excellence and life skills development.
Families who’ve used these methods have seen students grow in confidence, community, and curiosity—while parents gained the clarity and tools they needed to succeed.
“It all begins with an idea.” - Source
“It all begins with an idea.” - Source
"Maybe you want to launch a business." - Source
"Maybe you want to launch a business." - Source
“It all begins with an idea.” - Source
“It all begins with an idea.” - Source
Turn Your Homeschooling Dream into Reality
Starting a homeschool group can feel overwhelming—but The Pod Packet makes it simple. This all-in-one system gives you the tools, guidance, and confidence to build a thriving homeschool group from day one.
What’s inside:
• Step-by-step digital guide – Every decision mapped out clearly.
• Full video course – Watch and learn as we guide you from vision to launch.
• Proven strategies – Find the right families, manage expectations, and create a thriving learning environment.
• Systems for operations & communication – Keep your group organized and successful.
Questions? We’re here to help—reach out anytime.