Cola City Homeschoolers

Homeschool Game Day: May
2025-05-02 12:00 - 14:00 UTC | In Person
Homeschool Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event. We are meeting up there–so keep an eye out for other Cola City connections!
This free event is the First Friday of the month from 12-2pm. Open to all ages. Located at Firefly Toys & Games, 736 Saint Andrews Rd Ste C, Columbia, SC
Firefly staff will be highlighting and teaching educational board games which cover a range of subjects, such as: Math, Science, Geography, Chemistry and many more.
Use games for education; come learn about it.
And look for other Cola City Homeschoolers! We’re scheduling this as a meet-up time/location for our “Let Grow Club” initiative.

Relay For Life 2025
2025-05-02 18:00 - 22:00
Relay For Life 2025
by Relay for Life of the Midlands
Friday, May 2nd @6pm
All Ages — FREE
Notes: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Don’t Stop Believin’ For A Cure!Join us for the 40th Anniversary of Relay For Life, 80’s style! Create a team, walk the survivor or caregiver lap, light a candle in the luminary to celebrate or remember someone special, family activities, kid zone, food vendors, live music & more!
Teams & Survivors Register at:
https://secure.acsevents.org/site/STR?pg=entry&fr_id=109749
More info HERE!

Lemonade Day 2025
2025-05-03 09:00 - 17:00
Lemonade Day 2025
by Icehouse Ampitheater
Saturday, May 3rd @9am
All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Join us for Lemonade Day Lexington 2025, where we empower the next generation of young entrepreneurs to dream big, set goals, and run their very own lemonade stands. Register now and don’t miss this amazing opportunity for kids to learn business skills, financial literacy, and the value of hard work—all while having a blast!
More info about this event and registration HERE!

HERO's Enchanted Forest Prom
2025-05-03 18:00 - 22:00
HERO’s Enchanted Forest Prom
by HERO Homeschool Group
Saturday, May 3rd @6pm
High School Students — $35
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.

May 3, 2025 – 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Join us for an evening of dancing! We’ll serve drinks, light appetizers, and dessert. All high school aged homeschoolers are welcome, and a high school aged non-homeschool student is welcome as a guest of each homeschooler. (Each must purchase a ticket.)
This is a formal event; dresses, suits, or any appropriate formal party wear is accepted.
Tickets are $35 until April 1st, and $45 afterwards.
Location:
The Meech House at Mungo Park
2121 Lake Murray Blvd.
Columbia, SC 29212

BUY YOUR TICKETS HERE

ASVAB: Career Interest Inventory
2025-05-05 09:30 - 12:30 | In Person
NOTE: This is NOT a Cola City event. Contact SC TOP for more information and registration: Click HERE
ASVAB Aptitude & Interest Inventory Exam
Hosted by SC TOP
Test Date: Monday, May 5 at 10am
Test site address is: Ballentine Library, 1200 Dutch Fork Rd. Irmo, SC 29063
10th-12th graders — FREE
NOTE: Results will not be released to any recruiters. The results are confidentially yours, along with information to explore your career opportunities.
BRING: Your own computer so we can take the iCAT format of the test (instead of paper pencil).

More information about ASVAB Career Exploration Program: https://www.asvabprogram.com/
More about Careers in the Military: https://www.careersinthemilitary.com/home
Sample Test Questions: https://www.asvabprogram.com/student

ASVAB Career Exploration Program is the only career planning resource that allows students to explore multiple paths to success — college, certificates, apprenticeships, licensure programs, or the Military – in one place.

MULTIPLE-APTITUDE TEST: The ASVAB assesses a student’s ability to learn new skills and is a predictor of success in training and education programs regardless of post-secondary intention.
INTEREST INVENTORY: The Find Your Interests inventory is based on John Holland’s widely accepted theory of career choice.
CAREER EXPLORATION TOOLS: Armed with an understanding of their skills and interests, students then explore careers that coincide with their unique skill-interest profile.

OCCU-Find, a catalog of careers with job-related information all geared toward helping students identify satisfying occupations.
My Portfolio, a customizable resume-like document designed to help students chart and share their plans and accomplishments.
My Educational and Career Plans, a guided exercise to encourage students to explore occupations based on their interests, achievements and favorite experiences, make initial career plans, and evaluate current and future programs of study.
My Coursework Planner, an activity to help students determine remaining coursework requirements for entry into occupations of interest.
www.careersinthemilitary.com, a comprehensive online resource powered by ASVAB CEP that allows students to discover extensive details about military career opportunities across all Services, their Service-specific ASVAB line scores and which Services offer which jobs.
ASVAB CEP promotes career literacy through exposure to career-field entry requirements and future-oriented planning tools to help students develop an action plan to share with parents and educators.

Parent Guide to ASVAB Career Planning
Student Guide to ASVAB Career Planning
Pre-REGISTER to secure your seat

Science Share Fair
2025-05-07 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Science Share Fair
By Cola City Common Ground Club
Wednesday, May 7 at 12:30
All Ages — $5/space
This is a fun twist on Show and Tell. Rather than stand up in front of a group to do a one-off presentation. Participants will set up a table/presentation area for on-going short presentations/demonstrations in a “fair” format. Participants will have designated presentation time, then also time to mingle as viewers/observers while others are presenting.
It’s a great chance to show off something that you have already learned in any topic of Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Earth Science, Natural Sciences, Astronomy, Environmental Science.
We recommend projects that are hands-on, interactive demonstrations or have samples, hand-outs, give-aways. You can do something that includes the scientific method, if you want, but it’s not required.
All participants will get a prize and certificate. There will not be judges to evaluate. This is a fun way to “tell others” something that you learned. You can do individual projects/presentations or buddy up with siblings or friends for your presentations.
Bring your presentation/project and your own table/display. We will set up between 12:30-1 pm. Presentation shifts will begin at after everyone is set up.
Questions? Contact Kim at colacityinfo@gmail.com. Text and call if you need to reach us last minute.
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Play Club: May
2025-05-14 12:30 - 14:30 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: May
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, May 14, 12:30-2:30 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the fall to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on every other WEDNESDAY.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 12:30-2:30 pm now thru May
This Week’s Location NOTE CHANGE–it’s getting hot outside so we need more shade: Grandby Gardens Park, 1800 12th St, Cayce, SC 29033. (note: GPS sometimes pulls up Grandby Park downtown instead. Try also Cayce Town Hall at 1800 12th Street, Cayce).
This week is a free play–explore the creek!
Due to INCLEMENT WEATHER, location is moved to Richland Library, Downtown. Come to the children’s room/teen room level. Parking is free in the lower lot on Park Street, the sidewalk entrance directly to that level so you can avoid the construction going on with the escalator.
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities. Bring: Indoor/Table games and/or crafts. Explore the activities in the children’s room or teens only area.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks. Bring your actitivity ideas for the summer/fall meet-ups.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Creek Study @Nature as Teacher
2025-05-15 10:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Creek Study Field Trip
by Nature as Teacher
Thursday, May 15 @10:15
Ages 6-15 — $10/participant

Note this event is hosted/organized by Cola City Homeschoolers. Click HERE to register directly with Nature as Teacher
Calling all Cola City Homeschoolers ages 6-15! Visit the Nature as Teacher Preserve for Education on 5/15 from 10:30-12:00 to learn about Water Quality at our Creekside Classroom. We will be citizen scientists exploring creek macroinvertebrates and learning their relation to water quality.

Date: Thursday 5/15/25 10:30-12
Location: The Nature as Teacher Preserve for Education, 247 Chestnut Ferry Road, Camden SC 29020. Please aim to arrive 15-20 minutes early so the activities can start promptly at 10:30.

Cost: $10.00/participant
What to bring/wear: Please help students dress for the weather and be prepared with a full, reusable water bottle. We recommend closed-toe shoes (water proof boots preferred) and long pants to help protect legs in nature. All science supplies provided.

Directions: From Walmart in Camden head north on Springdale Drive, toward the race track. Chestnut Ferry Road (a dirt road) crosses over Springdale drive at the bend. Turn left onto Chestnut Ferry road and continue down until you see our pinecone logo sign. Our driveway is the last on the left. After proceeding through our gate, do not stop in the maintenance lot. Continue down our long driveway, past the right turn, and into the parking area. You will see our green and tan restroom building. The bus parking is just past the building on the left hand side.
Trips are non-refundable except in the case of cancelation by the provider.

Click HERE to register
directly with Nature as Teacher

Sports Extravaganza
2025-05-16 10:00 - 14:00 | In Person
***Note: This event is endorsed by Cola City Homeschoolers. Register directly with ABC Fitness, click HERE
Homeschool Sports Extravaganza Registration

When: Friday, May 16, 2025

Time: 10:00 am – 2:00 pm Event Address: Sesquicentennial Park – 9564 Two Notch Rd, Columbia, SC 29223 (Shelter 1) Contact for more info: (803) 348-3235

Thank you for registering for our 2nd annual ABC Kids Homeschool Sports Extravaganza! We are looking forward to a day filled with fun activities for you and your family. Please note that there is an admission fee to enter the park – prices are:

5 & under – free

6-15 – $3.50

Adults – $6

Seniors 65+ $3.75

This FREE event is open to all, however we do ask for your support to help make this event truly amazing. To make this event even more amazing, we need more volunteers. If you register, we kindly ask that you commit to assisting in some capacity if needed. Additional details will be sent to all participants.

Volunteer Opportunities: We’re looking for enthusiastic helpers to lead small groups or assist at activity stations. Or even just assisting with yourh child’s group. No planning required—just bring your energy!

If you would like to support us beyond volunteering and make a finacial contribution, you may do that as well. Regardless if you’re able to volunteer or support us finacially, you are making a difference by just being present and engaging, and we appreciate you for that!

We have reserved a shelter for this event which will be Shelter 1, near the big field. This is where our field day events will take place. Our activities will include station events, team games, lunch (bring a lunch), and the splash pad. Please contact me ahead of time if you have any further questions. Thanks and we’ll see you there!

Register directly with ABC Fitness, click HERE

Homeschool Mornings on the Farm
2025-05-16 10:30 - 13:00
Mornings on the Farm
by Outside Inn Campground
Friday, May 16th @10:30am
All Ages — $10
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Welcome to Homeschool Farm Days!
Join us for a fun and educational morning designed especially for homeschooling families! Our “Homeschool Mornings” offer a hands-on experience where children can learn about farm life, interact with our friendly animals, and enjoy time outdoors in a natural setting.
Kids will have the opportunity to pet and snuggle with our animals, discover interesting facts about their care, and explore our beautiful farm. It’s the perfect way to combine education with a love for nature and animals.
Come spend a morning with us at Outside Inn, where learning meets adventure in the great outdoors!
Things to note:

Adult chaperones are free and must stay with their kids for the entire event.
Kids under 3 must be with their adult at all times.
Older kids can explore approved areas with parental permission. These include the game areas, garden and walking trails.
We will take kids through the animal enclosures; It can get dirty, so please dress appropriately
We are also a campground, so please do not disturb campers while enjoying the farm

Event Location: 1074 Woolbright Rd, Santee, SC 29142
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to experience farm life up close. See you there!
Get your tickets HERE!

Kindergarten Graduation
2025-05-17 10:00 - 12:00 | In Person
Kindergarten Graduation & Milestone Awards
By SC TOP Association
Saturday, May 17 at 10am-noon
$10/participant
Note: This is *NOT* a Cola City Event, but it is open to any homeschoolers. You don’t have to be a member of SC TOP. Click here to sign up directly for the Milestone Awards Program
Celebrate the important milestones you’ve accomplished this year! We invite all SC TOP members to participate in this celebration of learning!

Kindergarten Graduation or
Completing the 1st year of Homeschooling at any grade level
5th Grade and 8th Grade Graduation
Any other Milestone acomplishment or grade level promotion

We’ll compile a promo video that you can share with your friends and family. We’ll also have a fun presentation with minute-to-win-it games and award certificates for all participants. Located at St. David’s Lutheran Church (Gym) 132 St Davids Church Rd, West Columbia, SC 29170
Note: This non-religious, informal program — uniquely homeschool. Caps/gowns are optional. You’ll be inspired, encouraged and empowered for next year!
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER by MAY 7th

Movies & Popcorn
2025-05-21 12:30 - 14:30
**Scroll Down to Register**

Movies & Popcorn
By Cola City Common Ground Club
Wednesday, May 21 at 12:30
All Ages — $5/student
Last meet-up of Common Ground Club for spring session. Now is a great chance to jump in and start thinking about Summer and Fall plans going forward!
We’ll be watching Milo & Otis. Popcorn will be provided. Bring your own snacks/beverages. Also, bring your own beach chairs or blankets if you want to have a more comfortable viewing position.
The movie is appropriate for all ages. Rated G. Click here for teaching guide to prepare or follow up with your students.
Summary: Milo is a farm kitten. Otis, his friend, is a farmyard puppy. A river runs by the farm and there is a dock where Milo and Otis play. One day, when they are playing hide-and-seek, Milo hides in a wooden box floating near the dock. Suddenly, the box gets carried away in the current. Otis follows on shore trying to rescue Milo but the river takes the frightened kitten far from the farm. This film is the story of their friendship, their adventures, and how they grow up and return to the farm with their own families.
Benefits and talking points: “The Adventures of Milo and Otis” has excellent developmental and moral lessons including: loyalty among friends, devotion to family, tolerance among people, risks/responsibilities.
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Nature Narratives
2025-05-21 13:00 - 15:00
Homeschool Days: Nature Narratives
by SC Botanical Gardens
Wed or Thurs, May 21st-22nd @1pm or 10am
All Ages — $12
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event

Themes change each month, and presentations and activities are designed for children ages 5 and up. Please register ALL children that will be present in the classroom, and limit adult attendance to 1 per household, as space is limited. Register at least 2 days in advance.Please note that class times and days of week below vary.

Fee: $12 per child/classOR $40 per child/ 4-class series (Choose either Thursday, 2/27 or Friday, 2/28, click “Buy Tickets” and select series option)Location: Conference Center, lower levelThursday, Feb 27 at 1-2:30 pm : Winter Survival StrategiesFriday, Feb. 28 at 10-11:30 am: Winter Survival Strategies

Thursday, Mar. 27 at 1-2:30 pm: Plant & Animal HomesFriday, Mar. 28 at 10-11:30 am: Plant & Animal Homes

Thursday, Apr. 24 at 1-3:00 pm: SC Regions & EcosystemsFriday, Apr 25 at 10-12:00 pm: SC Regions & Ecosystems

Wednesday, May 21 at 1-2:30 pm: Nature Narratives (ELA)Thursday, May 22 at 10-11:30 am: Nature Narratives (ELA)

Refund requests may be subject to processing fees.

SCBG Members, please remember to enter your FRIENDS discount code at the time of checkout, as there is no way to apply it retroactively.

Find tickets and reserve your spot HERE!

Homeschool Huddle
2025-05-28 10:00 - 11:00
Homeschool Huddle
by Richland Library Main
Wednesday, May 28th @10am
FREE — All Ages
Note: This is NOT a Cola City event.
Welcome homeschool families! Meet and connect with other homeschoolers and learn more about library resources to help your homeschooling journey. Come with questions and ideas to share.
More info HERE!

Play Club: May
2025-05-28 12:30 - 14:00 | In Person
Let Grow Play Club: May
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Wednesday, May 28, 12:30-2:30 pm
FREE — All ages
This activity *IS* hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers, but there is no sign up necessary. Just show up but there is a sign up form so we can send you a reminder about the location details each week.
This is not just another playground meet-up group. It’s a new kind of play program. Intentionally designed to foster independence, social development, problem solving–for all ages (especially 8+). Families with younger siblings are also welcome, though.
We hope to see this grow and expand to more projects and activities thru the fall to develop interpersonal connections as well as personal agency. We’re meeting up on every other WEDNESDAY.
Let Grow Play Club WEDNESDAYS 12:30-2:30 pm now thru May
This Week’s Location NOTE CHANGE–it’s getting hot outside so we need more shade: Grandby Gardens Park, 1800 12th St, Cayce, SC 29033. (note: GPS sometimes pulls up Grandby Park downtown instead. Try also Cayce Town Hall at 1800 12th Street, Cayce).
This week is a free play–explore the creek!
Bring: yard games, balls/frisbies, bubbles, nerf blasters, sidewalk chalk, table games/activities.
Parents also bring beach chairs, sunscreen, bottled water and snacks.
For more information about the “Let Grow” initiative, Click HERE
Contact Kim with any questions or to brainstorm ideas: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Call or Text if you get lost along the way: 803-307-4880

Homeschool Game Day: June
2025-06-06 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person

Cola City Consignment Sale
2025-06-27 12:00 - 2025-06-28 15:00 | In Person
Cola City Consignment Sale
Friday, June 27 from 1-6 pm
Saturday, June 28 from 11 am-3 pm
Admission: $1/shopper
Location: At Jamil Shrine Center with the SC Homeschool Expo
Got used books you want to sell? We want ’em! Every year, the shoppers tell us they wish there was more used books. We all love a deal. So, Cola City Expo can help rehome your used educational items.
Click HERE to register as a consignor

SC Homeschool Expo
2025-06-28 10:00 - 16:00 | In Person
SC Homeschool Expo 2025

Saturday, June 28th, 10 am-4 pm
Jamil Center, 206 Jamil Road, Columbia, SC 29210
Free Admission — Open to the Public
Follow the Facebook Event here for more information and updates: CLICK HERE

If you’re considering homeschooling, new to homeschooling or you’re an experienced homeschooler–this is the event for you! Cola City is committed to creating an environment that celebrates the unique perspectives, backgrounds, and identities of all people, embracing diversity as a cornerstone of our success.
Through intentional efforts, this Expo strives to cultivate an atmosphere of belonging, where everyone has equitable opportunities to thrive, contribute, and reach their full potential. By championing inclusivity and affirming the dignity of every person, we aim to inspire positive change and build a brighter, more harmonious future for all. In order to reach this goal, we need vendors and exhibitors who represent a variety of educational resources, materials, and services that cater to diverse learning styles, cultural backgrounds, and abilities.
This year’s theme is: Mirrors and Windows. Educational resources to provide our children with both reflections of their own lives (mirrors) and a peek into different perspectives of others (windows).
Vendor/Sponsor Registration: Click HERE

Homeschool Game Day: July
2025-07-11 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person

Book Club for Parents (Part 1)
2025-07-15 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event
Book Club for Parents
by Cola City PLUS
Tuesdays, July 15 & 29, 1-3 pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Note: This is a free opportunity with the Cola City PLUS membership. Scroll down to sign up, so you get the zoom link–and more details to get access to the Cola City App!
We’re launching the Cola City PLUS membership with a private app to help streamline communications and activities. This is the chance to get in on the foundation level to build this community resource together!
Book Club topic for July is: A Place to Belong by Amber O’Neal Johnston. If you came to the Expo and got a chance to meet the author, you got a glimpse at her practical ideas of celebrating diversity and kinship in the home and beyond. We want to expand on that to spark meaningful connections with each other locally.
The book is available in print, e-book and audio. There’s a discussion guide to go with it and lots of interactive questions in the book as well.
Get it from the library or with this affiliate referral link.
Zoom discussions on Tuesday, July 15 and July 29 from 1-3pm. Plus, on the Cola City PLUS App. Ready to get started?
Sign up here to reserve your space:

Parent NameThis is an adult discussion group for parents/educators.

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Are you a BOT or a HUMAN?Please answer this security question to access the submit button. HINT: the answer is HUMAN, Human or human (no space afterwards).
Thanks!

Minecraft Escape Room Challenge
2025-07-18 10:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Minecraft Escape Room Challenge
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, July 18 at 10 am
Ages 10+ — $10/player
Note: this is a special activity hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Scroll down to get on the waitlist.
A dangerous presence has infiltrated the SC STATE MUSEUM and your help is needed to defeat it! Search for wandering traders, solve puzzles and collect the necessary supplies to aid you on your heroic journey. Do you have what it takes to save the museum?
** Players: Ages 10+ can participate in this amazing escape room challenge by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited to 25 players who will be grouped in teams of 5. $10/player/participant.
**Volunteers: We also need teen/parent volunteers to help facilite activities stations as “Wandering Traders.” There’s a question on the sign up sheet to volunteer. Volunteers do no pay the player fee. Any other questions contact: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Recommended: Training/Orientation for Volunteers on Wednesday, July 16th at 1 pm at Firefly Toys/Games on St. Andrews Road.
**NO DROP-OFFS. Families with younger siblings may explore the museum during the event. But we ask everyone to stay on site. Bring snacks/water if you want. There’s also a cafe/snack bar to purchase refreshments.
**Admission to the museum is free with your homeschool certificate/membership letter. Additional adults or non-homeschooling friends must pay museum admission rates.
We’ll meet on Friday, July 18th at 10 am in the front lobby at the SC State Museum. Located at 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201.
Look for Angela to greet you and to organize into age groups, before you check in with the museum ticket desk.
Registration is CLOSED–Spaces have filled!
Sign up here to put your name on the WAITLIST:

Parent NameNote: Please include the name of the adult contact for this registration

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Player/Participant: Name and Ages 7-10$10/player. Limit 25 players (will be grouped in groups of 5). Use the plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participant/players. Player NameAge (ages 7-10) Parent VolunteersIndicate if you're able to volunteer to help facilitate the escape room stations. Yes, I want to volunteerNo, I have younger siblings to superviseTeen or other adult who wants to volunteerAdditional Attendees: Non-participantsIndicate how many younger siblings or additional adults with you during this event? Total people attending with Cola City Homeschoolers. Please enter a number greater than or equal to 0.Player Participants: $10/player QuantityPlayers ages 7-10 years old. Volunteers do not pay the player fee.

Price:
$10.00

Quantity
TotalPlease submit payment to secure space.
$0.00

Virtual Workshop & Roundtable Discussion
2025-07-18 14:00 - 15:30 | Virtual Event
Community Roundtable & Workshop
Abuse & Neglect Prevention
By CHRE & SC Connection
Postponed till September
Free — Virtual
NOTE: This workshop is hosted by the SC Homeschooling Connection. Free for Home Educator’s in SC to raise awareness about abuse and neglect–and practical ways to protect our homeschool community. CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE, you’ll be notified when the new date is set.

Presentation: The Coalition for Responsible Home Education is an organization run by homeschool alumni that provides resources for homeschooling families, conducts research on homeschooling issues, and educates the public on how gaps in homeschooling oversight policy can provide cover for abuse and neglect. Since 2013, we have conducted research on homeschooling outcomes, paying attention to unique red flags, risk factors, and patterns of abuse that are unique to homeschool settings. Our research shows that, while most families homeschool responsibly, abuse and neglect do occur in homeschooling environments, and that community-based solutions are critical to prevention.
In this introductory workshop, we introduce our organization’s work and give an overview of our key findings. We will then facilitate a group discussion to explore how our data and perspective can be of service to homeschooling community stakeholders. We do so with the ultimate goal of developing resources that aid homeschooling communities in recognizing and preventing abuse and neglect.
Presenter: Jonah Stewart is the Interim Executive Director of the Coalition for Responsible Home Education (CRHE). Jonah leads CRHE’s research on homeschool policy and outcomes, and oversees CRHE’s core projects, including the Homeschooling’s Invisible Children database. Jonah earned a Ph.D. in Education from the University of Oxford on a Rhodes scholarship.
CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE

Learn Nothing Day: Holiday
2025-07-24 | Holiday
Many people come to homeschooling with the idea that kids have to be told what to learn and that learning only occurs in a prescribed classroom setting. But, unschoolers have a day in July that is declared a national holiday.
It’s Learn Nothing Day.
READ MORE HERE at SC Homeschooling Connection
Note: SC Homeschooling Connection is a free resource hub for all homeschoolers in SC and beyond. No matter which association you choose.

Book Club for Parents (part 2)
2025-07-29 13:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event

Homeschool Game Day: Firefly
2025-08-01 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person
Homeschool Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event. We are meeting up there–so keep an eye out for other Cola City connections!
This free event is the First Friday of the month from 12-2pm. Open to all ages. Located at Firefly Toys & Games, 736 Saint Andrews Rd Ste C, Columbia, SC
Firefly staff will be highlighting and teaching educational board games which cover a range of subjects, such as: Math, Science, Geography, Chemistry and many more.
Use games for education; come learn about it.
And look for other Cola City Homeschoolers! We’re scheduling this as a meet-up time/location for our “Let Grow Club” initiative.
We are launching the Cola City PLUS app to streamline communications and registrations. Set up your account to get in on this new opportunity and help build the community together!

Office Hours: Cola City PLUS
2025-08-22 14:00 - 15:30 | Virtual Event
Office Hours: Cola City PLUS
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, August 22 @2pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
Brainstorming, planning and community building time! Come find out more about the *NEW* Cola City PLUS app.
We’ve got lots of ideas–but, we need YOU and your ideas too! Field trips, Clubs, Share Fairs, Market Day, Career Day, Family Dance, Park Meet-ups, and more.
Join Zoom Meeting: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85685414485?pwd=[REDACTED]
Or go to: https://zoom.us/join
Meeting ID: 856 8541 4485
Passcode: [REDACTED]
**************************

If you’re not on the app, yet, set up your free trial account first:CLICK HERE. Once the admin approves your account, you’ll be able to log in to the app. Directions will be emailed to you with instructions.

DISCUS: Open House Workshop
2025-08-26 14:00 - 15:00 | Virtual Event
Discus Open House: Online
by SC State Library
Tuesday, August 26 @2-3pm
FREE — Parent/Educators
NOTE: This is *not* a Cola City event. It’s open to the public. More info click here
Do you know about Discus – South Carolina’s Virtual Library? It’s a FABULOUS resource for your homeschool. Find out more at this Open House Q/A workshop.
Discus Open House: Tuesday, August 26, 2025 2:00PM – 3:00PM Whether you’re new to Discus or a long-time user looking for tips, this is your chance to get personalized support in a flexible, open format. No formal presentation—just answers, demos, and discussion!
Click here to register! https://statelibrary.sc.libcal.com/event/15046270

Minecraft Escape Room Challenge 2
2025-08-29 10:00 - 12:30 | In Person
Minecraft Escape Room Challenge
by Cola City Homeschoolers
Friday, August 29 at 10 am
Ages 7-10 — $10/player
Note: this is a special activity hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Scroll down to register.
A dangerous presence has infiltrated the SC STATE MUSEUM and your help is needed to defeat it! Search for wandering traders, solve puzzles and collect the necessary supplies to aid you on your heroic journey. Do you have what it takes to save the museum?
** Players: Ages 7-10 can participate in this amazing escape room challenge by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited to 25 players who will be grouped in teams of 5. $10/player/participant.
**Volunteers: We also need volunteers (previous players/teens/parents) to help facilite activities stations as “Wandering Traders.” There’s a question on the sign up sheet to volunteer. Volunteers do not pay the player fee. Any other questions contact: colacityinfo@gmail.com
Recommended: Training/Orientation for Volunteers on Wednesday, August 27 at noonish at Firefly Toys/Games on St. Andrews Road.
**NO DROP-OFFS. Families with younger siblings may explore the museum during the event. But we ask everyone to stay on site. Bring snacks/water if you want. There’s also a cafe/snack bar to purchase refreshments.
**Admission to the museum is free with your homeschool certificate/membership letter. Additional adults or non-homeschooling friends must pay museum admission rates.
We’ll meet on Friday, August 29th at 10 am in the front lobby at the SC State Museum. Located at 301 Gervais St, Columbia, SC 29201.
Look for Angela/Katrina to greet you and to organize into age groups, before you check in with the museum ticket desk.
Registration has closed. Thanks for your interest!
Join the new app, to keep up with the next opportunity:
https://colacity.ourschoolhangout.com/Account-Setup

Firefly Game Day
2025-09-05 12:00 - 14:00 | In Person
Homeschool Game Day
by Firefly Toys & Games
First Friday of the Month
All Ages — Free
Note: This is not a Cola City Event. We are meeting up there–so keep an eye out for other Cola City connections!
This free event is the First Friday of the month from 12-2pm. Open to all ages. Located at Firefly Toys & Games, 736 Saint Andrews Rd Ste C, Columbia, SC
Firefly staff will be highlighting and teaching educational board games which cover a range of subjects, such as: Math, Science, Geography, Chemistry and many more.
Use games for education; come learn about it.
And look for other Cola City Homeschoolers! We’re scheduling this as a meet-up time/location for our “Let Grow Club” initiative.
We are launching the Cola City PLUS app to streamline communications and registrations. Set up your account to get in on this new opportunity and help build the community together!

Salamander Study part 1
2025-10-16 10:00 - 12:00 | In Person
Salamander Study with Ranger Jay
hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers
Thursday, October 16 at 10 am
$5/participant — Ages 12+
Note: This activity is hosted by Cola City Homeschoolers. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. SCROLL DOWN to reserve your space. It is NOT a drop off event.
Ranger Jay is facilitating a nature study series for ages 12 and up to learn about Salamanders. This project revolves around this important question: How can the presence or absence of salamanders help determine the health of our forest ecosystems?
Data from this study will help the Park visitors understand the value of the salamanders as an indicator species and why our stream habitats are important. This knowledge will help Saluda Riverwalk Park Rangers care and conserve our sensitive stream habitats.
Salamanders’ patterns of population change, when coupled with measurements of their surroundings, will permit the investigation of the effects of geographic location, land management, air quality, vegetation, and associations with other species on salamander population dynamics.
Students will engage in collecting meaningful scientific data about salamander populations. This data will be used as an indication of forest ecosystem health. The series is conducted in 4-parts, continuing thru the seasons of the year.
Part 1: October 16th: Learning about Saluda Riverwalk using maps, biodiversity plots, walking observations and journaling. Students will learn why it is important to study our indicator species such as the salamander to assess the overall health of the ecosystem.
Part 2: November 13th (registration opens after part 1): Introduction to Salamanders. Fieldwork and Data Collection. Students will collect stream data at two to three sites depending on time allowance. We will sample for water quality data such as PH, Temp, and turbidity. Place cover boards for future terrestrial monitoring. Visit stream sites for salamander collection and identification.
Part 3: TBD Winter: 2nd visit for stream data collection. Check cover boards, Check streams for salamander population changes. Develop hypothesis relating to status of salamanders. Is habitat healthy? Are there concerns?
Part 4: TBD Spring: Last Visit for Stream data Collection. Check cover boards. Check streams for salamanders. Record data and draw initial conclusions.
Location: Saluda Riverwalk 650 Candi Lane, Columbia 29210
Restrooms and Parking Lot. Wear comfortable walking shoes and weather appropriate clothing. Sunscreen and water bottles also recommended. Bring your own snacks or bag lunch to hang out on the rocks afterwards, optional.
Look for Angela to greet you–and Ranger Jay. This is not a drop off-event. Parents can chaperone to listen in on the lesson activity too.
Families with younger siblings/non-participants:

You can follow along behind the ranger-led activity–to listen in. There’s a sidewalk if you have younger siblings with a stroller or wagon.
You can go along the walking path for your own nature explorations. Be sure to let Angela (our coordinator) know, so you can meet back when the group activity is concluded.

Sign up below to reserve your space:

Parent NameNote: Please include the name of the adult contact for this registration

First

Last

EmailLook for an automated confirmation when you submit the form

Mobile PhoneInclude a number just in case we need to reach you last minute.Teen/Tween Participant name and ageTeens/Tweens 12+/High school. Use the plus (+) sign to add rows for additional participants. Parent chaperone verificationWill the parent chaperone with the facilitated group activity or supervise younger siblings? This helps us estimate the total number in the group, as space is limited. Teens/ChaperoneYounger Siblings/Non-ParticipantsCola City PLUS appAre you on the Cola City PLUS app yet? Sign up is free to try now!

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Rander-Led Study Session QuantitySelect the number of middle/high school participants.

Price:
$5.00

Quantity
TotalPlease submit payment to secure space.
$0.00
