It is hardly possible today to discuss the topic of Catholic education without mentioning homeschooling. Once a tiny minority of Catholic children, existing in frameworks such as the Seton School, homeschoolers now account for 25% of all children enrolled in Catholic education. In Vermont, Catholic Schoolhouse is a program that has quietly but steadily grown into a vibrant hub for Catholic homeschoolers seeking both academic enrichment and meaningful fellowship. At the heart of the Vermont chapter is director Patty Lawson, whose journey with the program began more than a decade ago in the Midwest. “About 12 years ago, I was part of a group of parents who began a Catholic Schoolhouse chapter in Green Bay, WI” Lawson recalled. In Green Bay, she experienced firsthand the distinctive approach of the program. “We loved the integrated curriculum and wonderful hands-on art and science classes” she said.

That early experience left a lasting impression. When Lawson moved to Vermont about 10 years ago, she found herself missing more than just familiar surroundings. “Missing the weekly community support, we had a great desire to start a chapter here” she explained. The opportunity finally came together in the fall of 2019. “Luckily, enough families were willing to be adventurous with me to get one started.” From those adventurous beginnings, the Vermont chapter has become a steady presence for homeschooling families across the region. Unlike a conventional school, Catholic Schoolhouse does not replace a child’s primary education. Instead, “We are here to support families who have already made the choice to homeschool their children” Lawson emphasized.

That distinction is central to the program’s identity. Catholic Schoolhouse offers a structured, integrated curriculum that families can use at home, but the Vermont chapter focuses especially on weekly in-person enrichment. These gatherings include classes, art and science projects, and opportunities for children of different ages to learn together. For many families, the weekly meeting becomes an anchor point in their homeschooling rhythm. Lawson is quick to acknowledge that Catholic education comes in many forms. “It is a beautiful gift to have options for schooling so that each family can choose what is right for them” she said. For some, that means a parish Catholic school. For others, it may mean public school. And for a growing number, it means homeschooling with community support layered in.

“For those who have chosen the homeschool lifestyle or are considering it for their children, we are here to provide community support, weekly classes, field trips, opportunities for friendships, special gatherings, and service projects to enhance their home learning” Lawson explained. In a rural state, where families can be separated by considerable distance, that sense of connection is particularly valuable.

Three years ago, the group relocated to Immaculate Heart of Mary in Williston. “The more central location was helpful for many families to join” Lawson said. Today, families travel from across Northern and Central Vermont to participate. Some come from towns like Berkshire, Swanton, Waterville, Barre, Fairfield, Moretown, and North Ferrisburgh, often driving considerable distances to be part of the weekly gathering. What began with around eight families and just under 30 children has grown to 15 families with over 50 children. Notably, many of those children are ages five and under, suggesting that the community will continue to expand in the years ahead.

Lawson sees clear reasons behind that growth. “I think that families who homeschool appreciate the community support and the kids enjoy having a day with friends” she said. Homeschooling can sometimes feel isolating, particularly for parents balancing multiple grade levels and responsibilities. A consistent day of shared learning and friendship helps ease that burden. Children look forward to seeing peers and parents gain camaraderie and encouragement. The program’s hands-on approach remains one of its defining strengths. Art and science classes, in particular, are highlights. Over the years, the chapter has benefited from dedicated volunteers willing to share their expertise. “The greatest challenge I’ve faced each year has been filling the class leader roles for each of our classes” Lawson admitted. Because Catholic Schoolhouse relies on volunteer instructors and parent involvement, leadership recruitment is an ongoing effort.

Yet time and again, the community has stepped forward. “Over the years, we’ve been blessed with volunteers from local parishes as well as from the greater community to give of their time and talent to teach our children” Lawson said. “We are grateful.”

That spirit of shared responsibility is essential to the chapter’s future. As enrollment has increased, so too has the need for organizational structure. Lawson’s hopes for the coming years center on building a strong leadership team. “My hope is for CSH to be here for many years to come and to support and bless homeschooling families with community and classes” she said. “My focus this year is to put a strong leadership team in place to help steer the growth we’ve seen and to better meet the needs of each family in our community.” Her vision is not merely about numbers, but about sustainability and service. Growth, if not carefully guided, can strain volunteer-driven programs. By developing a team of committed leaders, Lawson aims to ensure that new families feel welcomed and that long-time members continue to find enrichment and connection. At its core, the Vermont chapter of Catholic Schoolhouse is about shared gifts. “Many hands working together and many talents shared, benefit everyone in our community” Lawson said. That philosophy echoes the broader Catholic understanding of community life: each person contributing according to his or her abilities, for the good of all.

In a state as secular as Vermont, the Catholic Schoolhouse program offers something both countercultural and deeply traditional: a return to family-centered education supported by faith and fellowship. For Vermont homeschoolers seeking both structure and solidarity, the weekly gathering at Immaculate Heart of Mary has become more than a class day. It is a community built on courage, cooperation, and the conviction that education flourishes best when families walk together.