As a mother of three, it can be difficult to homeschool at times. Each child is on a different path of their educational journey. My oldest son suffers from ADHD, Emotional Dysfunctional Regulation, Anxiety, and Epilepsy. I always knew before his diagnoses that he had additional needs. We tried public school for the first four years, but as a public school teacher myself, I could see the path that he was traveling. Due to his struggles, he would develop a major dislike for school when he could no longer feel successful. He would likely end up in the online school, and just be another graduation number. He would not be able to achieve what was possible with the limited amount a time a teacher has in a classroom of 25-30 students. He needed one on one instruction. He needed someone to work with him through his frustrations. He needed time to grow and learn how to use his additional needs for success. Most importantly he needed a safe place to fail. A desire for him to be successful regardless of his diagnoses is the driving force behind my decision to start a co-op for exceptional kids.