Hello! We are very excited to announce our next homeschool activity day here at the St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum. Please note: space is limited - pre-registration is required. A registration form is attached, to be filled out & returned to us (by email, or fax at 904-808-1248) . We will need a credit card number to reserve your spot. Please pass this email along to any other homeschool groups you think may be interested. Our contact info follows, if you would like to find out more about our special programs.
Civil War at Sea - Wednesday November 18, 2009: 10:00 - 12:00 & 1:00 & 3:00
$5.00 per student (ages 2 - 17) / $6.00 per adult
November 18, 2009
Ages 2-17
Meet local heroes, see sunken ships, hear tales of bravery, and secrets of survival during the Civil War. This program will address Sunshine Standards in the areas of Language Arts, Social Studies, Music, Science, and the Arts.
Station One: Songs of the Civil War A participatory presentation of songs and stories that look into our maritime heritage especially as it relates to the Civil War lead by Chris Kastle our Director of Education, an internationally acclaimed performer.
Station Two: Waiting Ashore See the war from the point of view of a young lady in St. Augustine waiting for her betrothed to come home. Learn about the clothes of the day and learn how to do the Virginia Reel from Susan Graffweg, our Educator and also a long-time historic interpreter.
Station Three: Entering the Harbor Students will learn about the historic challenges of navigating the St. Augustine Coast with one of our highly trained docents and be able to see the coastline as it now appears when they climb the tower.
Station Four: Ships of the Civil War Students will learn about the technological advances that changed the face of naval warfare through a story and comprehension exercise.
We are limited to 60 students per time, so be sure to reserve your place early!
We look forward to hearing from you!
Susan Graffweg
St. Augustine Lighthouse & Museum
81 Lighthouse Avenue
St. Augustine, FL 32080
904.829.0745 x 223
sgraffweg@staugusti nelighthouse. com
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Collective Banter
CollectiveBanter.com
Attention: artists, musicians, and writers in jr. & sr. high
About us
Is your jr. or sr. high school student a budding writer, musician, or artist? Visit CollectiveBanter.com, a place for young creators.
The Collective Banter Salon is an online community where students can post their creative work and receive critique, encouragement, and inspiration from fellow students.
The Collective Banter Challenge is a biannual creative arts competiton where students must respond to a specific directive with their chosen art form.
Cash prizes for:
Drawing
Painting
Mixed-media
3-Dimensional works
Photography
Computer Generated
Instrumental Works
Songs With Lyrics
Poetry
Short Stories
CONTACT US
Click here if you have any questions or comments
UNSUBSCRIBE
Click here to unsubscribe from this email
CALL FOR
ENTRIES
Use your favorite art form to:
Communicate the concept of freedom within boundaries.
Submission Deadline:
December 31, 2009
Click here for official rules and contest guidelines.
Attention: artists, musicians, and writers in jr. & sr. high
About us
Is your jr. or sr. high school student a budding writer, musician, or artist? Visit CollectiveBanter.com, a place for young creators.
The Collective Banter Salon is an online community where students can post their creative work and receive critique, encouragement, and inspiration from fellow students.
The Collective Banter Challenge is a biannual creative arts competiton where students must respond to a specific directive with their chosen art form.
Cash prizes for:
Drawing
Painting
Mixed-media
3-Dimensional works
Photography
Computer Generated
Instrumental Works
Songs With Lyrics
Poetry
Short Stories
CONTACT US
Click here if you have any questions or comments
UNSUBSCRIBE
Click here to unsubscribe from this email
CALL FOR
ENTRIES
Use your favorite art form to:
Communicate the concept of freedom within boundaries.
Submission Deadline:
December 31, 2009
Click here for official rules and contest guidelines.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Home School Legal Defense
Did you know that the home school community has an advocate inside the legal system? If your district is pressuring you for information beyond what the law demands, or if your right to home educated your children is being threatened, the Home School Legal Defense Association is on your side.
Find out more about HSLDA at hsdla.org. Here is a brief overview taken from their "About Us" page.
Home School Legal Defense Association is a nonprofit advocacy organization established to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the education of their children and to protect family freedoms. Through annual memberships, HSLDA is tens of thousands of families united in service together, providing a strong voice when and where needed.
HSLDA advocates on the legal front on behalf of our members in matters which include conflicts with state or local officials over homeschooling. Each year, thousands of member families receive legal consultation by letter and phone, hundreds more are represented through negotiations with local officials, and dozens are represented in court proceedings. HSLDA also takes the offensive, filing actions to protect members against government intrusion and to establish legal precedent. On occasion, HSLDA will handle precedent-setting cases for nonmembers, as well.
HSLDA advocates on Capitol Hill by tracking federal legislation that affects homeschooling and parental rights. HSLDA works to defeat or amend harmful bills, but also works proactively, introducing legislation to protect and preserve family freedoms.
HSLDA advocates in state legislatures, at the invitation of state homeschool organizations, by assisting individual states in drafting language to improve their homeschool legal environment and to fight harmful legislation.
HSLDA advocates in the media by presenting articulate and knowledgeable spokesmen to the press on the subject of homeschooling. HSLDA staff members are regularly called upon for radio, television, and print interviews, and their writings are frequently published in newspapers and magazines across the country. HSLDA’s own bimonthly magazine, The Home School Court Report, provides news and commentary on a host of current issues affecting homeschoolers. And its two-minute daily radio broadcast, Home School Heartbeat, can be heard on nearly 500 radio stations.
HSLDA advocates for the movement by commissioning and presenting quality research on the progress of homeschooling. Whether it’s in print, from the podium, or on the air, HSLDA provides insightful vision and leadership for the cause of homeschooling.
Home School Legal Defense Association . . . tens of thousands of American families working through more than 50 dedicated staff members to preserve each other’s right to homeschool . . . together, “Advocates for Family & Freedom.”
Find out more about HSLDA at hsdla.org. Here is a brief overview taken from their "About Us" page.
Home School Legal Defense Association is a nonprofit advocacy organization established to defend and advance the constitutional right of parents to direct the education of their children and to protect family freedoms. Through annual memberships, HSLDA is tens of thousands of families united in service together, providing a strong voice when and where needed.
HSLDA advocates on the legal front on behalf of our members in matters which include conflicts with state or local officials over homeschooling. Each year, thousands of member families receive legal consultation by letter and phone, hundreds more are represented through negotiations with local officials, and dozens are represented in court proceedings. HSLDA also takes the offensive, filing actions to protect members against government intrusion and to establish legal precedent. On occasion, HSLDA will handle precedent-setting cases for nonmembers, as well.
HSLDA advocates on Capitol Hill by tracking federal legislation that affects homeschooling and parental rights. HSLDA works to defeat or amend harmful bills, but also works proactively, introducing legislation to protect and preserve family freedoms.
HSLDA advocates in state legislatures, at the invitation of state homeschool organizations, by assisting individual states in drafting language to improve their homeschool legal environment and to fight harmful legislation.
HSLDA advocates in the media by presenting articulate and knowledgeable spokesmen to the press on the subject of homeschooling. HSLDA staff members are regularly called upon for radio, television, and print interviews, and their writings are frequently published in newspapers and magazines across the country. HSLDA’s own bimonthly magazine, The Home School Court Report, provides news and commentary on a host of current issues affecting homeschoolers. And its two-minute daily radio broadcast, Home School Heartbeat, can be heard on nearly 500 radio stations.
HSLDA advocates for the movement by commissioning and presenting quality research on the progress of homeschooling. Whether it’s in print, from the podium, or on the air, HSLDA provides insightful vision and leadership for the cause of homeschooling.
Home School Legal Defense Association . . . tens of thousands of American families working through more than 50 dedicated staff members to preserve each other’s right to homeschool . . . together, “Advocates for Family & Freedom.”
Education Bug
Articles, tips, and advice for those interested in homeschool ideas, curriculum, resources and more! Includes subcategories for homeschooling laws, products, and methods for homeschool parents. We also have tips on starting a homeschool support group in your area to network with other parents and give your kids an opportunity to socialize with other students.
Check out this great new site at http://www.educationbug.org/c/homeschool.html
Check out this great new site at http://www.educationbug.org/c/homeschool.html
Cultural Fair Fun
How do you bring an international flavor into your home education program? Why not host a cultural fair within your homeschool network? It's a perfect event for homeschool co-ops, support groups, or even neighboring homeschool families. Each family represents a country, spending time in advance doing research and preparing a display board and/or booth that depicts that nation. On the day of the cultural fair, each family sets up their display for the group to view. It's a great way to share information. Children and parents alike learn about a variety of cultures in a fun family atmosphere.
Want to add an extra flair? Hand out miniature passports for the children to carry to each booth where they can recieve a sticker of that country's flag. You can also set up a buffet table and ask families to bring dishes of food that represent their country of study. A world map hung up in the display area can mark all of the countries on display at the cultural fair.
Get as elaborate as you like, and have fun with this event. It will be a high point in your school calendar planning for years to come!
Want to add an extra flair? Hand out miniature passports for the children to carry to each booth where they can recieve a sticker of that country's flag. You can also set up a buffet table and ask families to bring dishes of food that represent their country of study. A world map hung up in the display area can mark all of the countries on display at the cultural fair.
Get as elaborate as you like, and have fun with this event. It will be a high point in your school calendar planning for years to come!
Friday, March 20, 2009
Introducing Live, Affordable, Classes
Dear CurrClick Customers,
We are so excited to announce the launch of CurrClick Live, our offering of online, live classes with a real teacher. In fact, we're so excited, that we're letting you know early, before all of our classes are available, just to give you a heads up. In the very near future, we will be offering dozens of classes in the areas of science, Spanish, history, art, photography, drama, speech and much more. Not only that, but our publishers will be offering free seminars in the evenings and early mornings. Isn't technology amazing?
Unlike online schools and curriculum packages, CurrClick Live gives you the freedom to pick a class or two, avoiding any big tuition payments or lengthy committments. So, if math or music is something you struggle with as a homeschool parent, you can affordably supplement with our CurrClick Live offerings.
Classes will be taught by way of our easy-to-use virtual classrooms and are compatible with Mac and PC operating systems. Students will be able to gather together in a classroom like setting, answer questions, and interact with their teacher. In addition, CurrClick Live will be offering one-on-one tutoring, seminars, independent studies, plus small and large classes.
All of our teachers have been carefully selected and have submitted to a background check. In addition, our online classrooms are secure and safe, so you can feel good about the online environment in which you are placing your children.
As classes are added and new teachers brought in, we'll be keeping you updated, but we encourage you to check the site often to see what new classes are being offered. You can search from our homepage under "Subjects" and the "CurrClick Live Classes" or just look at our homepage, where we'll be featuring new classes as soon as we get them.
CurrClick is committed to making homeschooing affordable and accessible to families everywhere. Online schools can be costly, with huge upfront payments. We feel strongly that offering students the ability to pick and choose from individual classes is another extension of our commitment to affordability and accessibility.
We hope you do to!
Best Wishes,
Staley and Leah
http://www.currclick.com/
We are so excited to announce the launch of CurrClick Live, our offering of online, live classes with a real teacher. In fact, we're so excited, that we're letting you know early, before all of our classes are available, just to give you a heads up. In the very near future, we will be offering dozens of classes in the areas of science, Spanish, history, art, photography, drama, speech and much more. Not only that, but our publishers will be offering free seminars in the evenings and early mornings. Isn't technology amazing?
Unlike online schools and curriculum packages, CurrClick Live gives you the freedom to pick a class or two, avoiding any big tuition payments or lengthy committments. So, if math or music is something you struggle with as a homeschool parent, you can affordably supplement with our CurrClick Live offerings.
Classes will be taught by way of our easy-to-use virtual classrooms and are compatible with Mac and PC operating systems. Students will be able to gather together in a classroom like setting, answer questions, and interact with their teacher. In addition, CurrClick Live will be offering one-on-one tutoring, seminars, independent studies, plus small and large classes.
All of our teachers have been carefully selected and have submitted to a background check. In addition, our online classrooms are secure and safe, so you can feel good about the online environment in which you are placing your children.
As classes are added and new teachers brought in, we'll be keeping you updated, but we encourage you to check the site often to see what new classes are being offered. You can search from our homepage under "Subjects" and the "CurrClick Live Classes" or just look at our homepage, where we'll be featuring new classes as soon as we get them.
CurrClick is committed to making homeschooing affordable and accessible to families everywhere. Online schools can be costly, with huge upfront payments. We feel strongly that offering students the ability to pick and choose from individual classes is another extension of our commitment to affordability and accessibility.
We hope you do to!
Best Wishes,
Staley and Leah
http://www.currclick.com/
Lemons For Literacy
As the old saying goes, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade!"
Over 40 million Americans struggle with literacy problems. People who struggle with reading can be seen as having been given lemons in life. With the support of effective reading instruction, these people can turn their lemons into lemonade.
We want to celebrate and support the resiliency of people who overcome their struggles with reading. Thousands of inspiring people have turned their struggles with reading into strengths.
Lemons for Literacy has two goals:
To Help cure illiteracy by providing free literacy materials to people in need.
To provide free education for everyone.
Lemons for Literacy is a vocabulary building game that visitors to the Reading Horizons Web site will be able to play. Players must identify a series of vocabulary words. The words begin at a low grade level and get progressively more difficult as the game is played. For each correct answer, a hand will squeeze lemon juice into a glass. Five lemons squeezed make one glass of lemonade, and five glasses amount to a pitcher full of lemonade. For every pitcher of lemonade that is filled, Reading Horizons will donate money to purchase literacy materials for a needy site.
For more information, go to http://www.readinghorizonsathome.com/lemonsforliteracy/
Over 40 million Americans struggle with literacy problems. People who struggle with reading can be seen as having been given lemons in life. With the support of effective reading instruction, these people can turn their lemons into lemonade.
We want to celebrate and support the resiliency of people who overcome their struggles with reading. Thousands of inspiring people have turned their struggles with reading into strengths.
Lemons for Literacy has two goals:
To Help cure illiteracy by providing free literacy materials to people in need.
To provide free education for everyone.
Lemons for Literacy is a vocabulary building game that visitors to the Reading Horizons Web site will be able to play. Players must identify a series of vocabulary words. The words begin at a low grade level and get progressively more difficult as the game is played. For each correct answer, a hand will squeeze lemon juice into a glass. Five lemons squeezed make one glass of lemonade, and five glasses amount to a pitcher full of lemonade. For every pitcher of lemonade that is filled, Reading Horizons will donate money to purchase literacy materials for a needy site.
For more information, go to http://www.readinghorizonsathome.com/lemonsforliteracy/
G. A. Henty Books
My name is Zachary Miller, and I was homeschooled almost all my life. One of my favorite things to do in my free time was to read all the books by G. A. Henty. The only thing is, I never actually read ALL the books, because my family could not afford to buy them all.
Henty books are one of the most popular book series with homeschoolers, and are one of the best ways to learn history, but should families really have to pay over $1200 just to read them all? Well, I don’t think so, and that’s why I started the company G. A. Henty Online. What we do is provide a way for families to be able to enjoy some of the greatest historical fiction novels of all time, without breaking the bank. In fact, we are the only company in the world that can provide you with some of the rarest stories Henty ever wrote.
You can find out more about what we offer at: www.gahentyonline.com, but that’s not really why I’m writing you. What I wanted to do was tell you about our affiliate program, which is a way for you to offer this site to the members of your homeschool group, while raising some funds for your group at the same time.
You can find out more at: www.gahentyonline.com/affiliate. Basically, the way it works is that when you sign up as an affiliate, you get a special link that you can send the members of your group, which takes them to our site. If they choose to become a member, you or your group will make 50% of that sale, which works out to about $23.50.
This is a great way to raise some funds for your group, while at the same time, offering the members of your group a way to enjoy the Henty books at an amazing price.
Please, check out our site, and read the details about our affiliate program. If you have any questions, send me an email or give me a call at 815-568-6799.
Henty books are one of the most popular book series with homeschoolers, and are one of the best ways to learn history, but should families really have to pay over $1200 just to read them all? Well, I don’t think so, and that’s why I started the company G. A. Henty Online. What we do is provide a way for families to be able to enjoy some of the greatest historical fiction novels of all time, without breaking the bank. In fact, we are the only company in the world that can provide you with some of the rarest stories Henty ever wrote.
You can find out more about what we offer at: www.gahentyonline.com, but that’s not really why I’m writing you. What I wanted to do was tell you about our affiliate program, which is a way for you to offer this site to the members of your homeschool group, while raising some funds for your group at the same time.
You can find out more at: www.gahentyonline.com/affiliate. Basically, the way it works is that when you sign up as an affiliate, you get a special link that you can send the members of your group, which takes them to our site. If they choose to become a member, you or your group will make 50% of that sale, which works out to about $23.50.
This is a great way to raise some funds for your group, while at the same time, offering the members of your group a way to enjoy the Henty books at an amazing price.
Please, check out our site, and read the details about our affiliate program. If you have any questions, send me an email or give me a call at 815-568-6799.
Help Secure our Right to Homeschool
Parental rights are under attack. If you’ve been reading our emails for very long, you’ve seen it too: parents face an ongoing challenge to their ability to direct the upbringing of their children.
HSLDA has done much to secure educational freedoms for homeschoolers. But our work is not done. Therefore, we are asking you to recommend HSLDA to your homeschooling friends.
Right now we are making it easy for them to experience the benefits of HSLDA membership—for free! If they join between now and April 30, approved applicants will be granted a free membership good through July 31, 2009.
They do not need to send payment and there’s no commitment. But this is an opportunity for them to see how committed we area to securing their right to homeschool and to do so successfully.
This offer for a free membership is short. The opportunity to sign up extends only through April 30! So please don’t delay in forwarding this offer to them. Of course, we will give them an opportunity to renew for continued benefits after this trial membership period is over.
We remain willing and able to protect the legal right to homeschool. We also know that homeschooling can be challenging. That’s why we’re able to help with both legal and practical homeschooling needs.
Home School Legal Defense Association • P.O. Box 3000 • Purcellville, Virginia 20134-9000
Phone: (540) 338-5600 • Fax: (540) 338-2733 • Email: info@hslda.org
Web: http://www.hslda.org
HSLDA has done much to secure educational freedoms for homeschoolers. But our work is not done. Therefore, we are asking you to recommend HSLDA to your homeschooling friends.
Right now we are making it easy for them to experience the benefits of HSLDA membership—for free! If they join between now and April 30, approved applicants will be granted a free membership good through July 31, 2009.
They do not need to send payment and there’s no commitment. But this is an opportunity for them to see how committed we area to securing their right to homeschool and to do so successfully.
This offer for a free membership is short. The opportunity to sign up extends only through April 30! So please don’t delay in forwarding this offer to them. Of course, we will give them an opportunity to renew for continued benefits after this trial membership period is over.
We remain willing and able to protect the legal right to homeschool. We also know that homeschooling can be challenging. That’s why we’re able to help with both legal and practical homeschooling needs.
Home School Legal Defense Association • P.O. Box 3000 • Purcellville, Virginia 20134-9000
Phone: (540) 338-5600 • Fax: (540) 338-2733 • Email: info@hslda.org
Web: http://www.hslda.org
Monday, March 16, 2009
Anthony's Amazing Journey
A unique children's book just in time for Easter.
Anthony's Amazing Journey
Anthony's Amazing Journey is the story of the Triumphal Entry as seen through the eyes
of the donkey foal. During the journey, Anthony learns about bravery, trust, and friendship.
Overcoming obstacles like shyness and being small in size, Anthony learns how important
it is to have a friend in Jesus.
About the Author
Bert Ballou has seven nieces and nephews and four great-nieces and nephews.
He noticed a disturbing trend recently of secularism dominating not only department
stores at the holiday seasons, but a shift in general away from Christian beliefs.
Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny garner more attention than Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving scarcely exists in the world of retail; Fat Tuesday takes excess to the
extreme while the end of Lent gets celebrated with an egg hunt and possibly "brunch".
This book is a sublte way of fighting back. God gave him a fresh angle on a familiar
story. This book is aimed at children on their level, but catches the adults that read to
them. No one should be afraid of Jesus, and hopefully this book starts a dialouge on
that very subject. The story doesn't end with the last page, its what happens after
getting to Jerusalem that we all hang our salvation on. Pun intended.
Order your copy today: http://www.anthonysamazingjourney.com/
Anthony's Amazing Journey
Anthony's Amazing Journey is the story of the Triumphal Entry as seen through the eyes
of the donkey foal. During the journey, Anthony learns about bravery, trust, and friendship.
Overcoming obstacles like shyness and being small in size, Anthony learns how important
it is to have a friend in Jesus.
About the Author
Bert Ballou has seven nieces and nephews and four great-nieces and nephews.
He noticed a disturbing trend recently of secularism dominating not only department
stores at the holiday seasons, but a shift in general away from Christian beliefs.
Santa Claus and the Easter Bunny garner more attention than Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving scarcely exists in the world of retail; Fat Tuesday takes excess to the
extreme while the end of Lent gets celebrated with an egg hunt and possibly "brunch".
This book is a sublte way of fighting back. God gave him a fresh angle on a familiar
story. This book is aimed at children on their level, but catches the adults that read to
them. No one should be afraid of Jesus, and hopefully this book starts a dialouge on
that very subject. The story doesn't end with the last page, its what happens after
getting to Jerusalem that we all hang our salvation on. Pun intended.
Order your copy today: http://www.anthonysamazingjourney.com/
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Write Great Essays
Are your homeschooling parents and students struggling with essay writing?
The solution is available online. The Write Great Essays Workbook gives parents and students easy-to-follow lessons, complete with all the explanations, examples, and exercises they need to learn how to write great essays.
This proven workbook is ideal for students of all levels, from beginners to those who have struggled for years without achieving an “A”. Working through the Write Great Essays Workbook will benefit your students immediately and throughout their studies.
For more information, workbook sample and personal copy, see www.WriteGreatEssays.com or contact teacher@writegreatessays.com
Read what others have to say about the Write Great Essays Workbook:
“My marks went up a whole letter grade this semester after I worked through the Write Great Essays Workbook. I’m so relieved and proud.” Grace, Sacramento, CA
“There is something for every student in this workbook: from planning to writing to editing. Thanks for making it so easy to follow.” Mrs. Weston, Homeschooling Parent, Madison, WI
“I am so impressed with the improvements in my daughter's essay writing. She received top marks in her high school requirements this year. The lessons and steps in this Write Great Essays Workbook helped her master essay writing! Thank you very much." Mrs. Lee, San Francisco, CA
For 25 years, educator Liz Kind has specialized in essay writing, teaching students of all ages how to excel. Now, she has compiled these proven step-by-step lessons into student workbooks complete with easy-to-follow instructions and practical exercises to help students master essay writing.
www.WriteGreatEssays.com
Give your students the tools they need to excel at essay writing.
The solution is available online. The Write Great Essays Workbook gives parents and students easy-to-follow lessons, complete with all the explanations, examples, and exercises they need to learn how to write great essays.
This proven workbook is ideal for students of all levels, from beginners to those who have struggled for years without achieving an “A”. Working through the Write Great Essays Workbook will benefit your students immediately and throughout their studies.
For more information, workbook sample and personal copy, see www.WriteGreatEssays.com or contact teacher@writegreatessays.com
Read what others have to say about the Write Great Essays Workbook:
“My marks went up a whole letter grade this semester after I worked through the Write Great Essays Workbook. I’m so relieved and proud.” Grace, Sacramento, CA
“There is something for every student in this workbook: from planning to writing to editing. Thanks for making it so easy to follow.” Mrs. Weston, Homeschooling Parent, Madison, WI
“I am so impressed with the improvements in my daughter's essay writing. She received top marks in her high school requirements this year. The lessons and steps in this Write Great Essays Workbook helped her master essay writing! Thank you very much." Mrs. Lee, San Francisco, CA
For 25 years, educator Liz Kind has specialized in essay writing, teaching students of all ages how to excel. Now, she has compiled these proven step-by-step lessons into student workbooks complete with easy-to-follow instructions and practical exercises to help students master essay writing.
www.WriteGreatEssays.com
Give your students the tools they need to excel at essay writing.
CLEPtomania
Some homeschooling parents find formulating a plan for homeschooling through high school a challenge. Should our focus be on achieving a high school diploma? What about facing the college recruiters?
These concerns drive some parents to plan hours of unnecessary course work that would hopefully lead to a diploma. Others choose educational paths that attempt to satisfy nagging doubts about future college entrance. CLEP solved BOTH these concerns for our family by allowing us to chart an independent course that will ultimately show college recruiters that our student is ready for the next step.
What is CLEP?
CLEP is the "College-Level Examination Program" and is also known by terms such as "testing out" or "credit by examination." Simply put, you use independent study to prepare for a specific college course and then go to a local college to take the computerized multiple choice exam. If you pass, you are issued the credits, as if you had taken the class at the college.
CLEP exams can be used to:
-accumulate dual credit, showing credits that will count toward high school requirements AND, at the same time, count towards a college degree
-shorten the years of study required to attain a college degree, since you are starting in the teen years
-save you money in earning a college degree, as CLEP exams are MUCH cheaper than registering for a college class on campus
-show ANY "brick and mortar" college that your child is capable of performing at a college level, and you'll have the credits to PROVE it!
-avoid "basic skills" classes when entering college by CLEPing college math and freshman english
-give your child the chance to delve into the subject being studied while moving at a comfortable pace for optimum learning
-sharpen your child's independent study skills, which are a MUST in the college environment
-continue to share your "world view" with your child when studying controversial topics contained in many social science classes
-tackle tough subjects ONCE and get the credit the FIRST time around. Why do high school biology and then retake it again for college credit?
SOUNDS GOOD, BUT WHERE DO I START?
A normal college course includes classroom instruction, followed by testing and then the granting of credits earned. Through our FREE lesson plans you will be able to use your child's independent study skills, replacing the instructional phase of the college class process with the appropriate books and videos we've selected as study tools. Your child will prepare for the exam and the college board will issue them credits for passing the test. These credits can be "banked" with the college board and then transferred to the college of your choice in the future.
DO ALL COLLEGES ACCEPT CLEP CREDITS?
CLEP credits are accepted by more than 2,900 schools. The exams are 90 minute, multiple choice format. There are other widely accepted credit-by-examination programs as well, such as DANTES. It's important to check with the colleges on your "wish list" to see how many credits they allow to be "transferred in" from any one testing source. The colleges we have listed are VERY "credit by examination" friendly, some even allowing you to "test out" of your ENTIRE four year degree! Remember too that colleges that have enrollment requirements, such as SAT scores and basic skills tests, often waive them when college credits have already been accumulated by the student.
For more information please visit:
http://ClepPrep.tripod.com
These concerns drive some parents to plan hours of unnecessary course work that would hopefully lead to a diploma. Others choose educational paths that attempt to satisfy nagging doubts about future college entrance. CLEP solved BOTH these concerns for our family by allowing us to chart an independent course that will ultimately show college recruiters that our student is ready for the next step.
What is CLEP?
CLEP is the "College-Level Examination Program" and is also known by terms such as "testing out" or "credit by examination." Simply put, you use independent study to prepare for a specific college course and then go to a local college to take the computerized multiple choice exam. If you pass, you are issued the credits, as if you had taken the class at the college.
CLEP exams can be used to:
-accumulate dual credit, showing credits that will count toward high school requirements AND, at the same time, count towards a college degree
-shorten the years of study required to attain a college degree, since you are starting in the teen years
-save you money in earning a college degree, as CLEP exams are MUCH cheaper than registering for a college class on campus
-show ANY "brick and mortar" college that your child is capable of performing at a college level, and you'll have the credits to PROVE it!
-avoid "basic skills" classes when entering college by CLEPing college math and freshman english
-give your child the chance to delve into the subject being studied while moving at a comfortable pace for optimum learning
-sharpen your child's independent study skills, which are a MUST in the college environment
-continue to share your "world view" with your child when studying controversial topics contained in many social science classes
-tackle tough subjects ONCE and get the credit the FIRST time around. Why do high school biology and then retake it again for college credit?
SOUNDS GOOD, BUT WHERE DO I START?
A normal college course includes classroom instruction, followed by testing and then the granting of credits earned. Through our FREE lesson plans you will be able to use your child's independent study skills, replacing the instructional phase of the college class process with the appropriate books and videos we've selected as study tools. Your child will prepare for the exam and the college board will issue them credits for passing the test. These credits can be "banked" with the college board and then transferred to the college of your choice in the future.
DO ALL COLLEGES ACCEPT CLEP CREDITS?
CLEP credits are accepted by more than 2,900 schools. The exams are 90 minute, multiple choice format. There are other widely accepted credit-by-examination programs as well, such as DANTES. It's important to check with the colleges on your "wish list" to see how many credits they allow to be "transferred in" from any one testing source. The colleges we have listed are VERY "credit by examination" friendly, some even allowing you to "test out" of your ENTIRE four year degree! Remember too that colleges that have enrollment requirements, such as SAT scores and basic skills tests, often waive them when college credits have already been accumulated by the student.
For more information please visit:
http://ClepPrep.tripod.com
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Pizza Hut BOOK IT Program Open to Homeschoolers
Homeschoolers in grades k-6 for the '09-'10 school year may register for the Pizza Hut Book It! reading incentive program. Set individual reading goals for the months of Oct-May and receive a free Personal Pan Pizza for each month the goal is met.
For more information:
http://www.bookitpr ogram.com/ enrollment/ homeschool. asp
For more information:
http://www.bookitpr ogram.com/ enrollment/ homeschool. asp
Science Kits Available for Homeschoolers
This is a great way for home education programs to provide state of the art science classes for students.
Science Take-Out is proud to introduce 2 new kits and a new Variety Pack:
pH Testing - Students create their own pH color scales and test the pH of several common liquids.
Pollution Investigation - Students investigate the cause of runoff water pollution and learn about the environmental health effects of pollutants.
Science Take-Out Variety Pack - Get 11 different Science Take-Out kits and save $12!
Here is what students are saying about Science Take-Out kits!
You have everything you need right in front of you and it gave you step by step things to do.
It made me feel like a real scientist, and it also made me think I had a job to do.
I like it because we had all the materials.
It was easy to understand by the step-by-step process.
I like how it's hands on and I like hands on activities.
The lab had everything you need in the bag.
It's a very good learning experiment. I think it helps me learn.
It makes me feel like a scientist. The directions were easy to follow.
We get experience in labs and keeping organized.
It's fun to act like a scientist.
It was very helpful because you didn't have to worry about not having enough of something.
It is easy for me to find everything.
It makes me feel smart.
I like the lab because it came with all the materials with labels. I wasn't confused on what stuff was.
It is fun. You get to do all the work and be smart.
I liked not having to hear orders barked at me.
Science Take-Out at NSTA:
Our collaborators from the University of Rochester's Life Sciences Learning Center will be presenting two workshops at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) convention in New Orleans:
Science Take-Out: Kidney Function (Friday, March 20, 11:00-12:00 noon, JW Marriot New Orleans) - Experience two Science Take-Out kits, Kidney Dialysis and Kidney Function. Take home a sample kit and information on other Science Take-Out kits.
Molecular Evolution of Cholera (Saturday, March 21, 9:30-10:30 AM, JW Marriot New Orleans) - Experience a brand new Science Take-Out kit being created in collaboration with the University of Rochester. This real-life medical mystery explores the emergence of a new epidemic-causing strain of Vibrio cholerae.
Visit Science Take-Out online at www.sciencetakeout.com to see our entire selection of kits.
For more information about Science Take-Out kits, contact us any time at contact@sciencetakeout.com or call us at (585)764-5400
Science Take-Out is proud to introduce 2 new kits and a new Variety Pack:
pH Testing - Students create their own pH color scales and test the pH of several common liquids.
Pollution Investigation - Students investigate the cause of runoff water pollution and learn about the environmental health effects of pollutants.
Science Take-Out Variety Pack - Get 11 different Science Take-Out kits and save $12!
Here is what students are saying about Science Take-Out kits!
You have everything you need right in front of you and it gave you step by step things to do.
It made me feel like a real scientist, and it also made me think I had a job to do.
I like it because we had all the materials.
It was easy to understand by the step-by-step process.
I like how it's hands on and I like hands on activities.
The lab had everything you need in the bag.
It's a very good learning experiment. I think it helps me learn.
It makes me feel like a scientist. The directions were easy to follow.
We get experience in labs and keeping organized.
It's fun to act like a scientist.
It was very helpful because you didn't have to worry about not having enough of something.
It is easy for me to find everything.
It makes me feel smart.
I like the lab because it came with all the materials with labels. I wasn't confused on what stuff was.
It is fun. You get to do all the work and be smart.
I liked not having to hear orders barked at me.
Science Take-Out at NSTA:
Our collaborators from the University of Rochester's Life Sciences Learning Center will be presenting two workshops at the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) convention in New Orleans:
Science Take-Out: Kidney Function (Friday, March 20, 11:00-12:00 noon, JW Marriot New Orleans) - Experience two Science Take-Out kits, Kidney Dialysis and Kidney Function. Take home a sample kit and information on other Science Take-Out kits.
Molecular Evolution of Cholera (Saturday, March 21, 9:30-10:30 AM, JW Marriot New Orleans) - Experience a brand new Science Take-Out kit being created in collaboration with the University of Rochester. This real-life medical mystery explores the emergence of a new epidemic-causing strain of Vibrio cholerae.
Visit Science Take-Out online at www.sciencetakeout.com to see our entire selection of kits.
For more information about Science Take-Out kits, contact us any time at contact@sciencetakeout.com or call us at (585)764-5400
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Home schoolers swarm to defend education
As seen on www.onenewsnow.com:
A home school defense attorney is warning New Hampshire home schoolers about a piece of legislation being debated in The Granite State.
Mike Donnelly of the Home School Legal Defense Association is warning New Hampshire homeschoolers of HB 367. If passed, the bill would require home schoolers to double the amount of reporting currently required and would allow a school superintendant or principal to determine if the home school program should continue or be terminated.
The legislation has angered many home schoolers who showed up in record numbers when the bill was being debated in Concord. "There were about a thousand home schoolers there. It was a record-breaking crowd, never been that many home schoolers," Donnelly notes. "In fact some of the people at the state house said that they've never seen such a large crowd inside ever."
Donnelly says he and about 100 home schoolers were able to give testimony. "Well if it passed, this would become one of the most restrictive [home school] laws in the country," he adds.
He states New Hampshire's situation is in stark contrast to the trend in other parts of the country where states are reducing the regulations placed on home schoolers. Donnelly says that the legislation will come up for a vote in early- to mid-March.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Education/Default.aspx?id=431394
A home school defense attorney is warning New Hampshire home schoolers about a piece of legislation being debated in The Granite State.
Mike Donnelly of the Home School Legal Defense Association is warning New Hampshire homeschoolers of HB 367. If passed, the bill would require home schoolers to double the amount of reporting currently required and would allow a school superintendant or principal to determine if the home school program should continue or be terminated.
The legislation has angered many home schoolers who showed up in record numbers when the bill was being debated in Concord. "There were about a thousand home schoolers there. It was a record-breaking crowd, never been that many home schoolers," Donnelly notes. "In fact some of the people at the state house said that they've never seen such a large crowd inside ever."
Donnelly says he and about 100 home schoolers were able to give testimony. "Well if it passed, this would become one of the most restrictive [home school] laws in the country," he adds.
He states New Hampshire's situation is in stark contrast to the trend in other parts of the country where states are reducing the regulations placed on home schoolers. Donnelly says that the legislation will come up for a vote in early- to mid-March.
http://www.onenewsnow.com/Education/Default.aspx?id=431394
Guides for Homeschool Leaders
Homeschool Leader: Homeschoolers Guide (a small company for homeschoolers run by homeschoolers) publishes 3 FREE guides for homeschoolers: a field trip guide, a college guide, and a curriculum guide. The guides are distributed free to homeschool group leaders. You can visit our website at www.homeschoolersguides.com to get more information about us and our guides. We send hard copies of the guide to Support Group Leaders for their groups. All of our guides are downloadable for free on our website. Your members can download their own copy of any or all of the guides. The 2009 Guides will be coming out shortly. We have just recently begun distribution of our guides in your area.
If you would like to receive free copies of these guides for your group, please email a mailing address to homeschoolersguides@yahoo.com and we will get them out to you. The Field Trip and Pocket Homeschool Fair (curriculum guide) come out twice a year and the College Guide comes out annually..
If you would like to receive free copies of these guides for your group, please email a mailing address to homeschoolersguides@yahoo.com and we will get them out to you. The Field Trip and Pocket Homeschool Fair (curriculum guide) come out twice a year and the College Guide comes out annually..
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Census Takers Needed
The 2010 Census – A Great Way to Earn Extra Money
The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting temporary part-time census takers for the 2010 Census. The pay is good, the hours are flexible, and the work is close to home.
Census taker jobs are excellent for home school parents, retirees, college students, persons who want to work part-time, persons who are between jobs, or just about anyone who wants to earn extra money while performing an important service for their community.
Go to http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/index.php to apply.
The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting temporary part-time census takers for the 2010 Census. The pay is good, the hours are flexible, and the work is close to home.
Census taker jobs are excellent for home school parents, retirees, college students, persons who want to work part-time, persons who are between jobs, or just about anyone who wants to earn extra money while performing an important service for their community.
Go to http://2010.census.gov/2010censusjobs/index.php to apply.
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Creative Writing Course
CREATIVE WRITING
As beautiful as a garden in bloom
is the ability to write well!!
Do you have a budding writer or story teller?
Would you like to see your student's writing ability grow and blossom?
This course gently takes students by the hand and guides them through the creative writing process.
Through a step-by-step approach, students learn to write complete stories with descriptions of characters and scenery as well as dialog.
A professional TEACH-A-SCRIPT is also available with this course.
Go to www.thefathersbooks.com for details
As beautiful as a garden in bloom
is the ability to write well!!
Do you have a budding writer or story teller?
Would you like to see your student's writing ability grow and blossom?
This course gently takes students by the hand and guides them through the creative writing process.
Through a step-by-step approach, students learn to write complete stories with descriptions of characters and scenery as well as dialog.
A professional TEACH-A-SCRIPT is also available with this course.
Go to www.thefathersbooks.com for details
Empowered Parent/Camp Consequence
My name is Gene Dickinson. I recently retired from the public education system after more than 30 years of service. I worked as a teacher, coach and administrator with 15 of those years in a charter school, inner city schools and alternative schools. I have seen first-hand how the arrogance of our youth is directly proportional to the lack of knowing negative consequences.
I know the diverse problems in the classroom that divert time and energy from genuine instruction. I have seen how juvenile crime, truancy, curfew violators, and the lack of parent accountability cost our state vast amounts of money every day. I have joined an organization that can help parents and schools. This organization is Empowered Parent/ Camp Consequence®. We have been serving families in the Jacksonville area for eight years with a faith-based approach.
I would like for you to take a few minutes to look at this short video. It shows some of the many parent successes and what the Department of Juvenile Justice, Sheriff’s Office and our State Attorney have to say about this program. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcOgGcK80rQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PwK0J7Nvoo
Now, please go to our web site; http://www.ihelpparents.com.
We have not asked the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Sheriff, or the State Attorney to endorse our program. They simply tell parents about a program called Empowered Parent/Camp Consequence® and suggest parents take a look at it. Then it is left up to the parent. These informed professionals don't attempt to convince or sell anyone this program. We ask that the parent be informed of our web site address, www.ihelpparents.com and leave it alone.
I will email you in a few days to see what you think of the program. Feel free to contact us via the web site information. Some schools and agencies are adding our link to their home web site; please feel free to do so.
Sincerely,
Gene Dickinson
Director of Development
Empowered Parent Program
Camp Consequence®
I know the diverse problems in the classroom that divert time and energy from genuine instruction. I have seen how juvenile crime, truancy, curfew violators, and the lack of parent accountability cost our state vast amounts of money every day. I have joined an organization that can help parents and schools. This organization is Empowered Parent/ Camp Consequence®. We have been serving families in the Jacksonville area for eight years with a faith-based approach.
I would like for you to take a few minutes to look at this short video. It shows some of the many parent successes and what the Department of Juvenile Justice, Sheriff’s Office and our State Attorney have to say about this program. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dcOgGcK80rQ
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PwK0J7Nvoo
Now, please go to our web site; http://www.ihelpparents.com.
We have not asked the Department of Juvenile Justice, the Sheriff, or the State Attorney to endorse our program. They simply tell parents about a program called Empowered Parent/Camp Consequence® and suggest parents take a look at it. Then it is left up to the parent. These informed professionals don't attempt to convince or sell anyone this program. We ask that the parent be informed of our web site address, www.ihelpparents.com and leave it alone.
I will email you in a few days to see what you think of the program. Feel free to contact us via the web site information. Some schools and agencies are adding our link to their home web site; please feel free to do so.
Sincerely,
Gene Dickinson
Director of Development
Empowered Parent Program
Camp Consequence®
Learn a Language; Speak a Culture
The ALDEA Language Training program through Blue Mountain Travel Company® provides independent study classes in which the tutor determines the curriculum, provides a wealth of experience, and serves as an outside resource through email while the students guide themselves through study and evaluation process. Each class meets with the tutor in a live or recorded session via the Internet for 90 minutes each session.
Gather Place internet conferencing technology has made it possible for each student to take live or recorded on-line courses from their home or office. The interactive class sessions use audio, text chat, video, slide show presentations, and a whiteboard to enhance the students' educational experience. Such classes offer an adult learner the chance to learn a language interactively from their own desktop and the home educated student a wonderful opportunity for peripheral language coaching.
Features
A reasonably priced program
Connect using dial-up, DSL, or broadband Software
Online tests and exams
Track your own progress online
Helpful instructor feedback
Receive a certificate of completion (with letter grade for homeschoolers)
Easy pay through PayPal or by calling ALDEA
Parent/Guardian evaluation with online grading website
BELOW IS A LIST OF CLASSES AND A BRIEF HOW-WOULD-THIS-HELP-ME DESCRIPTION.
Available Live-Feed Classes: These programs have specific dates and times of meeting. Please peruse the schedule link for the calendar.
Adult Conversational Spanish -- This class is good for folks who realize through their job or what-not that they'd better brush up if they want to communicate!
Spanish Level 3 -- This is a good class for homeschoolers, military families, or missionary families who would like to access further resources in upper level Spanish language training. Focus: grammar, conversation, upper-level reading, integrated vocabulary
Spanish Level 4 (Literature & Translation) -- Must have Spanish 3 or the equivalent and must pass the placement test to enroll (only one test per student allowed). Focus: literature and translation (instructor assisted evaluations)
World Religions -- Good for people who want to take into account his or her worldview and religious frame of reference in studying the worlds most prominent religions.
Available Recorded Classes: These programs can begin at any point during the calendar year and are available 24/7. The student may access them at their leisure. The last two are excellent classes for homeschoolers, military families, or missionary families who would like a resource to follow by independent study. These will be available on 30SEP2008.
Travel Spanish for the 11th Hour -- This is a six week class designed to assist those who may be traveling to a Spanish-speaking country and would like to have a quick immersion course so they can, at the very least, find the bathrooms.
Spanish Level 2 -- Recorded class following the curriculum above. Spanish 1 equivalent & placement test required. Focus: grammar, conversation, introduction to reading
Spanish Level 3 -- Recorded class following the curriculum above. Spanish 2 equivalent & placement test required. Focus: grammar, conversation, upper-level reading, integrated vocabulary
http://www.bluemountaintravelcompany.com/ALDEA%20Online/online_academy_html/index.htm
Gather Place internet conferencing technology has made it possible for each student to take live or recorded on-line courses from their home or office. The interactive class sessions use audio, text chat, video, slide show presentations, and a whiteboard to enhance the students' educational experience. Such classes offer an adult learner the chance to learn a language interactively from their own desktop and the home educated student a wonderful opportunity for peripheral language coaching.
Features
A reasonably priced program
Connect using dial-up, DSL, or broadband Software
Online tests and exams
Track your own progress online
Helpful instructor feedback
Receive a certificate of completion (with letter grade for homeschoolers)
Easy pay through PayPal or by calling ALDEA
Parent/Guardian evaluation with online grading website
BELOW IS A LIST OF CLASSES AND A BRIEF HOW-WOULD-THIS-HELP-ME DESCRIPTION.
Available Live-Feed Classes: These programs have specific dates and times of meeting. Please peruse the schedule link for the calendar.
Adult Conversational Spanish -- This class is good for folks who realize through their job or what-not that they'd better brush up if they want to communicate!
Spanish Level 3 -- This is a good class for homeschoolers, military families, or missionary families who would like to access further resources in upper level Spanish language training. Focus: grammar, conversation, upper-level reading, integrated vocabulary
Spanish Level 4 (Literature & Translation) -- Must have Spanish 3 or the equivalent and must pass the placement test to enroll (only one test per student allowed). Focus: literature and translation (instructor assisted evaluations)
World Religions -- Good for people who want to take into account his or her worldview and religious frame of reference in studying the worlds most prominent religions.
Available Recorded Classes: These programs can begin at any point during the calendar year and are available 24/7. The student may access them at their leisure. The last two are excellent classes for homeschoolers, military families, or missionary families who would like a resource to follow by independent study. These will be available on 30SEP2008.
Travel Spanish for the 11th Hour -- This is a six week class designed to assist those who may be traveling to a Spanish-speaking country and would like to have a quick immersion course so they can, at the very least, find the bathrooms.
Spanish Level 2 -- Recorded class following the curriculum above. Spanish 1 equivalent & placement test required. Focus: grammar, conversation, introduction to reading
Spanish Level 3 -- Recorded class following the curriculum above. Spanish 2 equivalent & placement test required. Focus: grammar, conversation, upper-level reading, integrated vocabulary
http://www.bluemountaintravelcompany.com/ALDEA%20Online/online_academy_html/index.htm
Monday, February 16, 2009
Considering Homeschooling Ministry
Considering Homeschooling Ministry™ is a national outreach helping Christian families discover the blessings of a biblical home education. Visit their web site at www.consideringhomeschooling.org
Two curriculum programs they recommend"
CLASS HOMESCHOOLS: Christian k-12 home education since 1967.
Tailored Curriculum: Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all curriculum
CLASS evaluates
results of achievement testing
transcripts and cumulative records
previous grade level courses and scores
parent comments and requests
CLASS then assigns
all necessary subjects appropriate to the student's level
lower or higher grade level
materials if more appropriate for the child materials to correct gaps in the student's educational experience
alternate courses, if requested by you
CLASS selects a best fit curriculum
When it comes to education, one size does not fit all. The uniqueness of each child must be considered when assembling a curriculum. Beginning at second grade, CLASS relies in part on achievement testing to ensure that appropriate materials are assigned to each student. For high school, CLASS also evaluates transcripts and cumulative records. When available, CLASS reviews previous grade level courses and scores. With CLASS you won't get a one-size-fits-all curriculum-you get the curriculum that best fits your child.
For more information on CLASS, go to http://www.homeschools.org/indexTailored.html
Abeka Academy: Excellence in Education from a Christian Perspective
500,000 enrollments since 1985
DVD: Supervise Your Child's Instruction at Home!...with either Program 1 or Program 2
You can supervise and be involved in your child's learning process at home. A manual with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions makes this possible. All textbooks, workbooks, tests, keys and DVDs needed for the course are provided. Students provide their own Authorized King James Version Bible for Bible classes. Pensacola Christian Academy master teachers provide daily instruction on DVD. DVD courses are designed for a 170-day school year. Courses are planned for school-aged children with minimal home supervision. The typical kindergarten day is 3 hours on DVD. Elementary students can expect to spend 3 hours a day on DVD plus independent work time. High school class time is based on 50 minutes of class time plus homework for each course. Students may enroll at any time during the year.
Traditional: Parents can teach without formal training or experience!
The A Beka Academy Traditional Parent-Directed program has courses available for five-year-old kindergarten and grades one through six. This parent-directed program provides you with all the necessary A Beka Book student and teacher materials needed to complete an entire grade. In the 2007-2008 school year, over 40,000 students were enrolled in A Beka Academy.
For more information, go to http://www.abekaacademy.org/
Two curriculum programs they recommend"
CLASS HOMESCHOOLS: Christian k-12 home education since 1967.
Tailored Curriculum: Don't settle for a one-size-fits-all curriculum
CLASS evaluates
results of achievement testing
transcripts and cumulative records
previous grade level courses and scores
parent comments and requests
CLASS then assigns
all necessary subjects appropriate to the student's level
lower or higher grade level
materials if more appropriate for the child materials to correct gaps in the student's educational experience
alternate courses, if requested by you
CLASS selects a best fit curriculum
When it comes to education, one size does not fit all. The uniqueness of each child must be considered when assembling a curriculum. Beginning at second grade, CLASS relies in part on achievement testing to ensure that appropriate materials are assigned to each student. For high school, CLASS also evaluates transcripts and cumulative records. When available, CLASS reviews previous grade level courses and scores. With CLASS you won't get a one-size-fits-all curriculum-you get the curriculum that best fits your child.
For more information on CLASS, go to http://www.homeschools.org/indexTailored.html
Abeka Academy: Excellence in Education from a Christian Perspective
500,000 enrollments since 1985
DVD: Supervise Your Child's Instruction at Home!...with either Program 1 or Program 2
You can supervise and be involved in your child's learning process at home. A manual with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions makes this possible. All textbooks, workbooks, tests, keys and DVDs needed for the course are provided. Students provide their own Authorized King James Version Bible for Bible classes. Pensacola Christian Academy master teachers provide daily instruction on DVD. DVD courses are designed for a 170-day school year. Courses are planned for school-aged children with minimal home supervision. The typical kindergarten day is 3 hours on DVD. Elementary students can expect to spend 3 hours a day on DVD plus independent work time. High school class time is based on 50 minutes of class time plus homework for each course. Students may enroll at any time during the year.
Traditional: Parents can teach without formal training or experience!
The A Beka Academy Traditional Parent-Directed program has courses available for five-year-old kindergarten and grades one through six. This parent-directed program provides you with all the necessary A Beka Book student and teacher materials needed to complete an entire grade. In the 2007-2008 school year, over 40,000 students were enrolled in A Beka Academy.
For more information, go to http://www.abekaacademy.org/
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Homeschool Freebies!
Check out www.HomeschoolFreebieoftheDay.com . If you join their FREE mailing list, you get a link to download a free resource everyday!!! Great e-books and audio books and audio book units. AND IT'S ALL FREE!
Public Schools
Public Schools
Thursday, February 5, 2009
How is your current reading curriculum working?
Is it giving your child the essential reading foundation necessary for reading success?
Research and scientifically proven, the Discover Intensive Phonics program proves that this foundation is necessary. This program is a systematic, explicit, Orton-Gillingham based approach to reading. Discover Intensive Phonics instruction helps automatic readers excel, struggling readers improve, and/or gives young readers a proven foundation that covers all of the necessary beginning reading skills. Reading Horizons offers free online training and numerous resources to ensure successful instruction and make it easy to teach. All materials are non-consumable. These materials include but not limited to, games, activities, and progress assessments. The computer software teaches the entire program, offering hands-on, independent learning.
It is never too late to start down the right road to reading!
Contact Shantell for details
shantell@readinghorizons.com
Research and scientifically proven, the Discover Intensive Phonics program proves that this foundation is necessary. This program is a systematic, explicit, Orton-Gillingham based approach to reading. Discover Intensive Phonics instruction helps automatic readers excel, struggling readers improve, and/or gives young readers a proven foundation that covers all of the necessary beginning reading skills. Reading Horizons offers free online training and numerous resources to ensure successful instruction and make it easy to teach. All materials are non-consumable. These materials include but not limited to, games, activities, and progress assessments. The computer software teaches the entire program, offering hands-on, independent learning.
It is never too late to start down the right road to reading!
Contact Shantell for details
shantell@readinghorizons.com
Florida Private School for Homeschoolers
Hello from Grace Alone Academy! We are a registered Florida Private School for Homeschoolers. Our school offers record keeping services that comply with Florida Home Education Statutes as well as offering many other optional services.
We offer a monthly newsletter, online reporting, high school diplomas, DOE accepted transcripts, FLVS affiliation, a yearbook geared to homeschool families, camping adventures, online classes, field trips, an end of year celebration and much more.
Grace Alone Academy is excited to offer online record keeping to our home educating families. The ability to provide online record keeping is one of the features that sets Grace Alone Academy apart from other organizations. Through an affiliation with our online homeschool reporting, our families will enjoy:
· Simple, secure online record keeping system
· Offsite electronic storage and backup of important student records
· Record grades, track attendance, portfolio entries, lesson plans, standardized test score and immunization records
· Access and update your records from any location, via the internet, at any time
· Flexibility in record keeping or reporting requirements
· Generate student transcripts immediately
· Opportunity for you to train your student(s) in online computing
· Records protected by username and password authentication
· And much more...
Why should you choose a private umbrella for your homeschool? Many Christian homeschoolers enjoy the private school option because it allows them to legally exercise religious freedom for their homeschool, rather than being subject to secular government influences. The added benefit of administrative services frees the parent up to spend more time teaching and less time on records and other time consuming tasks.
Is Grace Alone Academy Accredited? No. After much research and prayer, we have no plans to seek accreditation. Through prior experience, we have found that a diploma from an accredited school does not make a difference in college entry or military entrance. If your student plans to continue post secondary education or the military, it is best to take the SAT or ACT as this is the final indicator of a student’s success rather than rely on accreditation. You are teaching your child, not the school; therefore, a student is assessed based on their knowledge and not by whether the private school has paid for accreditation.
Please contact us or visit www.gracealoneacademy.org for additional information.
In HIS Service,
Tonya Reed
Florida Counselor and School Director
fbiuthldr@fairpoint.net
(850)902-2421
We offer a monthly newsletter, online reporting, high school diplomas, DOE accepted transcripts, FLVS affiliation, a yearbook geared to homeschool families, camping adventures, online classes, field trips, an end of year celebration and much more.
Grace Alone Academy is excited to offer online record keeping to our home educating families. The ability to provide online record keeping is one of the features that sets Grace Alone Academy apart from other organizations. Through an affiliation with our online homeschool reporting, our families will enjoy:
· Simple, secure online record keeping system
· Offsite electronic storage and backup of important student records
· Record grades, track attendance, portfolio entries, lesson plans, standardized test score and immunization records
· Access and update your records from any location, via the internet, at any time
· Flexibility in record keeping or reporting requirements
· Generate student transcripts immediately
· Opportunity for you to train your student(s) in online computing
· Records protected by username and password authentication
· And much more...
Why should you choose a private umbrella for your homeschool? Many Christian homeschoolers enjoy the private school option because it allows them to legally exercise religious freedom for their homeschool, rather than being subject to secular government influences. The added benefit of administrative services frees the parent up to spend more time teaching and less time on records and other time consuming tasks.
Is Grace Alone Academy Accredited? No. After much research and prayer, we have no plans to seek accreditation. Through prior experience, we have found that a diploma from an accredited school does not make a difference in college entry or military entrance. If your student plans to continue post secondary education or the military, it is best to take the SAT or ACT as this is the final indicator of a student’s success rather than rely on accreditation. You are teaching your child, not the school; therefore, a student is assessed based on their knowledge and not by whether the private school has paid for accreditation.
Please contact us or visit www.gracealoneacademy.org for additional information.
In HIS Service,
Tonya Reed
Florida Counselor and School Director
fbiuthldr@fairpoint.net
(850)902-2421
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Learn To Type with Mavis Beacon
The best-selling typing training program is now better than ever! Our customers asked for a fresh update to Mavis Beacon and we've delivered with a comprehensive refresh of our award-winning program! Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing® Deluxe 20 delivers all the proven training excellence of past versions with a fresh, updated design and user experience that we think you'll love.
Buy it now for just $17.99 and start enjoying the benefits of better typing as soon as possible. Just a little bit of time with Mavis Beacon will have you typing better, emailing faster and working smarter! Don't wait long! This offer expires at midnight on February 18, 2009. Plus, take advantage of our limited-time $5.50 flat-rate shipping special.*
Buy it now for just $17.99 and start enjoying the benefits of better typing as soon as possible. Just a little bit of time with Mavis Beacon will have you typing better, emailing faster and working smarter! Don't wait long! This offer expires at midnight on February 18, 2009. Plus, take advantage of our limited-time $5.50 flat-rate shipping special.*
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Resources From A Former Homeschooler...
It's been 20 years since I homeschooled my children, so I'm out of the loop. I have, though, saved some of the materials I prepared for them and have made available online, free of charge, for anyone interested, the only proviso being that, as copyrighted material, they cannot be published under a different name or title without my permission. Below are their URL's.
l http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/games.html (Oral Word Games for Pre-Readers -- Verbal Analogies; Rhyming Riddles; Antonyms; Synonyms; Similarities; Sets and Subsets; Parts and Wholes
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/affixes.html (English Prefixes and Suffixes—intermediate or advanced level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/analogiesfull.pdf (Verbal Analogies--intermediate level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/novelita.html (Animal Stories in Spanish--elementary level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/biblefull.pdf (Old Testament Families and Characters Workbook--advanced level)
Happy Homeschooling!
C. Navarro
l http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/games.html (Oral Word Games for Pre-Readers -- Verbal Analogies; Rhyming Riddles; Antonyms; Synonyms; Similarities; Sets and Subsets; Parts and Wholes
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/affixes.html (English Prefixes and Suffixes—intermediate or advanced level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/analogiesfull.pdf (Verbal Analogies--intermediate level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/novelita.html (Animal Stories in Spanish--elementary level)
http://www.geocities.com/cfnavarro26/biblefull.pdf (Old Testament Families and Characters Workbook--advanced level)
Happy Homeschooling!
C. Navarro
HENA 2009 Conference
Our first look at our HENA 2009 Conference schedule is now up on our website!
http://www.hena.us/conferenceSchedule.html
There are still a few things that are not yet scheduled and of course, there are bound to be a few changes between now and the conference, but I'm pretty confident that we've got most of it as it will stay, although as we get closer, more details will be added to the schedule, so keep checking back!
If you are homeschooling or just curious about homeschooling DON'T MISS THIS EVENT! We are open to all and support families that homeschool and children are welcome! Please feel free to forward this notice!
Browse the exhibit hall and listen to these speakers while your kids have fun in funshops or play areas:
Grace Llewellyn, Author of the Teenage Liberation Handbook, Director, Not Back to School Camp
Pam Sorooshian, Math Professor and board member of National Home Education Network
Sandra Dodd, Unschooling Advocate, along with her grown kids, Holly, Marty and Kirby.
Holly Craw, Director, Covenant Homeschool Resource Center
Caryn Gardner, Classical Homeschooling
Diane Jessen, Teaching by Connections
Scott Hermanson, ASU English Professor
Rachel Mendelson, Parent of two grown unschoolers in college and a six year old still at home unschooling
Joanne Townsend, Single Parent Homeschooler
Rebecca Atlee, now unschooling her kids after she was raised unschooled
PLUS more!
KIDS ACTIVITIES --- TALENT SHOW --- KIDS THEATER PRODUCTION --- FUN!
If you haven't registered yet, don't wait! Our early bird pricing is over, but we now have lower prices until February 15 only!! Kids are still the same low price they always are, but adult and family regular prices have been reduced as it makes our job so much easier if we can get your Name Tags created and ready well before the conference.
Register now at: http://hena.us/conferenceRegistration.html
As always, volunteers are free, so if you want to volunteer, please contact us and let us know! We still have a few openings.
We look forward to seeing you at the HENA 2009 conference on March 7, 2009 at ASU Memorial Union in Tempe!
Cindy Fox
HENA 2009 Conference Coordinator
www.hena.us/conference.html
602-692-8923
http://www.hena.us/conferenceSchedule.html
There are still a few things that are not yet scheduled and of course, there are bound to be a few changes between now and the conference, but I'm pretty confident that we've got most of it as it will stay, although as we get closer, more details will be added to the schedule, so keep checking back!
If you are homeschooling or just curious about homeschooling DON'T MISS THIS EVENT! We are open to all and support families that homeschool and children are welcome! Please feel free to forward this notice!
Browse the exhibit hall and listen to these speakers while your kids have fun in funshops or play areas:
Grace Llewellyn, Author of the Teenage Liberation Handbook, Director, Not Back to School Camp
Pam Sorooshian, Math Professor and board member of National Home Education Network
Sandra Dodd, Unschooling Advocate, along with her grown kids, Holly, Marty and Kirby.
Holly Craw, Director, Covenant Homeschool Resource Center
Caryn Gardner, Classical Homeschooling
Diane Jessen, Teaching by Connections
Scott Hermanson, ASU English Professor
Rachel Mendelson, Parent of two grown unschoolers in college and a six year old still at home unschooling
Joanne Townsend, Single Parent Homeschooler
Rebecca Atlee, now unschooling her kids after she was raised unschooled
PLUS more!
KIDS ACTIVITIES --- TALENT SHOW --- KIDS THEATER PRODUCTION --- FUN!
If you haven't registered yet, don't wait! Our early bird pricing is over, but we now have lower prices until February 15 only!! Kids are still the same low price they always are, but adult and family regular prices have been reduced as it makes our job so much easier if we can get your Name Tags created and ready well before the conference.
Register now at: http://hena.us/conferenceRegistration.html
As always, volunteers are free, so if you want to volunteer, please contact us and let us know! We still have a few openings.
We look forward to seeing you at the HENA 2009 conference on March 7, 2009 at ASU Memorial Union in Tempe!
Cindy Fox
HENA 2009 Conference Coordinator
www.hena.us/conference.html
602-692-8923
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Writing and Latin for Home-Educated Students
Hi,
I am a homeschol graduate and a 2007 graduate of Belhaven College. I now direct Alethea Academy, a program that offers online classes in writing and Latin for home-educated students.
http://www.aletheaacademy.com
Emily Adams
emilyadams829@hotmail.com
admin@aletheaacademy.com
http://www.aletheaacademy.com
I am a homeschol graduate and a 2007 graduate of Belhaven College. I now direct Alethea Academy, a program that offers online classes in writing and Latin for home-educated students.
http://www.aletheaacademy.com
Emily Adams
emilyadams829@hotmail.com
admin@aletheaacademy.com
http://www.aletheaacademy.com
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Free Online Math Forum
New York, NY (Jan. 27, 2009) - Have you ever needed help with math problems but had no accessible resource to receive this help? InteractiveMathTutor.com has just created a math forum for students to receive free help with their problems.Members of the forum can post math problems in any subject from elementary math to calculus and statistics and receive help from an InteractiveMathTutor.com tutor, as well as look at each other's problems and work together."A lot of students have trouble with mathematics because it's a conceptual subject which you cannot just memorize," said Howard Heller, president of InteractiveMathTutor.com. "The Math Forum at InteractiveMathTutor.com gives students access to a free resource where they receive help with their math problems."InteractiveMathTutor.com has been a leading provider of personalized online math tutoring services for students throughout the United States since 1999. This American company, based out of New York City, provides tutoring in all levels of mathematics, including elementary math, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, precalculus, calculus, statistics and business based subjects including finance, economics, and accounting. The Math Forum also provides a social community for individuals interested in education to discuss topics with other members. The forum offers educational categories to discuss such as The Teachers Corner, Parents Speak Out, Students Speak Up, and Homeschooling.To join The Math Forum at InteractiveMathTutor.com for free, visit www.interactivemathtutor.com/forum
High School Guidance Counseling for Home Educated Students
It’s One-on-One High School Counseling at R.O.C.K. Solid! The next dates available are Feb. 5th and 6th. and appointments are now being taken for this very VALUEABLE service. Read below for all the wonderful details, reservations, payment, and contact information:
Not sure what classes to take to graduate?
Need help preparing a transcript?
What about qualifying for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship?
A team of private school administrators are now offering counseling services to home schooling families not under a non-traditional private school, and can advise you in the following areas:
High school planning
Course and curriculum guidance
Information on the three current graduation tracks in the state of Florida, as well as the new requirements for the Class of 2011 and beyond
Dual enrollment
Advanced Placement courses and test preparation
Florida Virtual School
Transcript preparation*
SAT/ACT college placement tests
College choices
Scholarship assistance – including the Florida Bright Futures
Financial aid
Info on class rings, celebrations and diplomas
Counselors are:
Tracey Cavender is the mother of two boys, Casey age 21 and Shaun age 26. She home schooled them for 11 years. Tracey’s passion for families with older home schooled children led her to found Oasis Home School Co-op in 1998 and Oasis Christian Academy in 2000. She has had the honor of helping numerous families home school their children successfully through high school and on to whatever God has called them to do.
Pamela Knopf is a seasoned home school mom and is currently the principal of Global Impact Ministries Academy, a private school that provides cooperative classes through the 12th grade. She has earned her bachelors degree in Christian Education and is currently working on her Masters and PhD. Pamela is also a Certified Temperament Therapist as well as a former FPEA District Director.
Joanne Mastronicola has home schooled for 18 years. She currently has two daughters attending college – both of whom earned scholarships. Her son graduated in 2008 and attends FCCJ. She has worked with Eunice Christian School students for many years and has authored the book Piecing Together the High School Puzzle.
Make an appointment for one-on-one counseling today! R.O.C.K. Solid, 376 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville Both the student and parent should be present
Fee - $30 per hour, due at time of service. (Appointments scheduled for one hour unless otherwise requested.) Contact Joanne Mastronicola for an information packet and to schedule your appointment.
*We will prepare and provide you with an electronic copy of your student’s transcript. As the homeschooling parent, you are still responsible for validating your student’s credits and signing the transcript attesting to them. We are happy to advise you in this area.
Visit Our Website:
rocksolidinc.com
Not sure what classes to take to graduate?
Need help preparing a transcript?
What about qualifying for the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship?
A team of private school administrators are now offering counseling services to home schooling families not under a non-traditional private school, and can advise you in the following areas:
High school planning
Course and curriculum guidance
Information on the three current graduation tracks in the state of Florida, as well as the new requirements for the Class of 2011 and beyond
Dual enrollment
Advanced Placement courses and test preparation
Florida Virtual School
Transcript preparation*
SAT/ACT college placement tests
College choices
Scholarship assistance – including the Florida Bright Futures
Financial aid
Info on class rings, celebrations and diplomas
Counselors are:
Tracey Cavender is the mother of two boys, Casey age 21 and Shaun age 26. She home schooled them for 11 years. Tracey’s passion for families with older home schooled children led her to found Oasis Home School Co-op in 1998 and Oasis Christian Academy in 2000. She has had the honor of helping numerous families home school their children successfully through high school and on to whatever God has called them to do.
Pamela Knopf is a seasoned home school mom and is currently the principal of Global Impact Ministries Academy, a private school that provides cooperative classes through the 12th grade. She has earned her bachelors degree in Christian Education and is currently working on her Masters and PhD. Pamela is also a Certified Temperament Therapist as well as a former FPEA District Director.
Joanne Mastronicola has home schooled for 18 years. She currently has two daughters attending college – both of whom earned scholarships. Her son graduated in 2008 and attends FCCJ. She has worked with Eunice Christian School students for many years and has authored the book Piecing Together the High School Puzzle.
Make an appointment for one-on-one counseling today! R.O.C.K. Solid, 376 New Berlin Road, Jacksonville Both the student and parent should be present
Fee - $30 per hour, due at time of service. (Appointments scheduled for one hour unless otherwise requested.) Contact Joanne Mastronicola for an information packet and to schedule your appointment.
*We will prepare and provide you with an electronic copy of your student’s transcript. As the homeschooling parent, you are still responsible for validating your student’s credits and signing the transcript attesting to them. We are happy to advise you in this area.
Visit Our Website:
rocksolidinc.com
Friday, January 23, 2009
A Fun Learning Game for Preschoolers
Homeschool parents know that keeping a preschooler challenged and busy are high on the priority list, regardless of how many children are in the home. I devised a fun game one day for my preschool-age son which combines his love of toy vehicles with my desire to teach him math. It's called "The Car Auction Game", and it's very easy to set up and even easier to play.
Begin by having your child(ren) gather up eleven toy vehicles. Matchbox size is best, but anything will work. While he's doing that, you can cut eleven squares of paper about 2 or 3 inches wide each, and number them "2" through "12". The only other item you'll need for this game is a pair of ordinary dice. I usually rob these from one of our board games.
Have your child(ren) line up the cars in the order they wish, and then place a number beside or in front of each vehicle. Each participant takes turns rolling the dice. The vehicle corresponding to the number on the dice is "won" by the roller, and the game progresses until no more cars remain in the lineup. If a number is rolled that corresponds to an empty slot (meaning that car has already been won), the roller loses his turn and the next player rolls the dice. When no more vehicles are left to be won, each player counts up his winnings. The one with the most cars in his possession wins the game.
To increase my son's counting skills, I have him count up the dice on his roll and on mine. He also learns number recognition by comparing the count of the dice to the label on each vehicle. This game also provides an excellent tool for teaching a child how to deal with losing. Sometimes he wins a vehicle; and sometimes he loses his turn. The moments of sadness over losing a turn are quickly replaced by the joys over winning on another turn. It's a wonderful way to show our children that you can't have it all, but what you do get is pretty good!
src="http://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/show_ads.js">
Begin by having your child(ren) gather up eleven toy vehicles. Matchbox size is best, but anything will work. While he's doing that, you can cut eleven squares of paper about 2 or 3 inches wide each, and number them "2" through "12". The only other item you'll need for this game is a pair of ordinary dice. I usually rob these from one of our board games.
Have your child(ren) line up the cars in the order they wish, and then place a number beside or in front of each vehicle. Each participant takes turns rolling the dice. The vehicle corresponding to the number on the dice is "won" by the roller, and the game progresses until no more cars remain in the lineup. If a number is rolled that corresponds to an empty slot (meaning that car has already been won), the roller loses his turn and the next player rolls the dice. When no more vehicles are left to be won, each player counts up his winnings. The one with the most cars in his possession wins the game.
To increase my son's counting skills, I have him count up the dice on his roll and on mine. He also learns number recognition by comparing the count of the dice to the label on each vehicle. This game also provides an excellent tool for teaching a child how to deal with losing. Sometimes he wins a vehicle; and sometimes he loses his turn. The moments of sadness over losing a turn are quickly replaced by the joys over winning on another turn. It's a wonderful way to show our children that you can't have it all, but what you do get is pretty good!
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Thursday, January 22, 2009
5 Ways Parents Can Help Their Children With Their Reading Skills
1. Read books that contain print in the pictures.
2. Reread your child's favorite books.
3. Talk with your child as you read a book.
4. Read rhymes to your child and emphasize rhyming words.
5. Separate the sounds in a word, for example: D O G and then ask your child to put the sounds together to form a word.
Bstlearningdirect.com helps children with pre reading, language, and articulation skills.
Visit bstlearningdirect.com or contact them directly for more information about their program and a personal, guided tour of our technology.
2. Reread your child's favorite books.
3. Talk with your child as you read a book.
4. Read rhymes to your child and emphasize rhyming words.
5. Separate the sounds in a word, for example: D O G and then ask your child to put the sounds together to form a word.
Bstlearningdirect.com helps children with pre reading, language, and articulation skills.
Visit bstlearningdirect.com or contact them directly for more information about their program and a personal, guided tour of our technology.
Environmental Grant Available to High School Homeschoolers
Planet Connect Grant Program
Making a Difference Now!
Making a Difference Now!
Do you have an innovative solution to protect the environment?
Planet Connect can help make it happen!
Planet Connect is a new online network for High School students to learn about the environment plus green college and career options.
We’re looking for your creative ideas to fix an environmental problem at your school or in your community.
Planet Connect is offering grant winners $1,000 awards with $500 to support your idea and $500 for an environmental internship in your community.
Apply before February 1, 2009!
For help with the application:
download the application guide (pdf)
download the application guide (doc)
For more details, visit Planet Connect today.
Christian Homeschool Tutor
For anyone seeking a homeschool tutor, please consider George Gurgone. He is a dedicated teacher, father, grandfather and man of God. Read his resume below for more info:
Christian Homeschool Teacher Resume George J. Gurgone
What I bring to the table:
- strong academics. BA in English, MA in Communications. Academic scholarships to Jesuit high school and Jesuit university.
- former FCCJ adjunct instructor. Business management. Remedial English.
- excellent verbal skills. Able to explain difficult concepts in down-to-earth style.
- business ownership. Consultant and mortgage broker. Careers in broadcasting sales and Wall Street.
- internet savvy. I will enrich the learning experience.
- Christian leadership. Involved in men's ministry for many years. Small-group leader and presenter.
- Experience: life. No "tutor" certifications; they exist to give association jobs.
What drives me:
- a passion for learning. Intensely curious.
- a concern about the rewriting of history and value systems in our state schools.
- a special interest in educating young people. Translation: they will need all the tools to be the leaders of tomorrow.
- an ENTP personality. Look it up under Myers-Briggs. Short explanation: entrepreneur, big-picture person. WYSIWYG.
- a mature outlook. Have a son and daughter, and am intensely involved in my granddaughters' lives.
Shortcomings:
- no formal experience in test preparation. But I am a fast read.
What I require:
- parental buy-in to all of the above. I interview you, too. Parents and offspring.
Hourly rate: negotiable
Biblical worldview: non-negotiable.
Contact George via his email address: georgeg@fdn.com
Christian Homeschool Teacher Resume George J. Gurgone
What I bring to the table:
- strong academics. BA in English, MA in Communications. Academic scholarships to Jesuit high school and Jesuit university.
- former FCCJ adjunct instructor. Business management. Remedial English.
- excellent verbal skills. Able to explain difficult concepts in down-to-earth style.
- business ownership. Consultant and mortgage broker. Careers in broadcasting sales and Wall Street.
- internet savvy. I will enrich the learning experience.
- Christian leadership. Involved in men's ministry for many years. Small-group leader and presenter.
- Experience: life. No "tutor" certifications; they exist to give association jobs.
What drives me:
- a passion for learning. Intensely curious.
- a concern about the rewriting of history and value systems in our state schools.
- a special interest in educating young people. Translation: they will need all the tools to be the leaders of tomorrow.
- an ENTP personality. Look it up under Myers-Briggs. Short explanation: entrepreneur, big-picture person. WYSIWYG.
- a mature outlook. Have a son and daughter, and am intensely involved in my granddaughters' lives.
Shortcomings:
- no formal experience in test preparation. But I am a fast read.
What I require:
- parental buy-in to all of the above. I interview you, too. Parents and offspring.
Hourly rate: negotiable
Biblical worldview: non-negotiable.
Contact George via his email address: georgeg@fdn.com
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
Getting Started
Now that you have determined that homeschooling is right for you and your family, how do you begin? The first thing you need to research is the state legislation in your area. Links to your state's laws along with a comprehensive start up guide can be found at http://www.youcanhomeschool.org/starthere. If you live in Florida, another vital guide to homeschooling can be found at http://www.fpea.com/. More specifically, in the Jacksonville, FL area, check out http://www.herijax.com/ for local resources and support groups.
No matter where you are located, there is likely a group of other homeschool families that meets regularly to offer one another support and fellowship. Large cities are going to have more to offer in this realm. Some groups are designed to lend academic support to students, with parents sharing the teaching skills. Other groups meet strictly for social reasons, and still others fall somewhere in between.
Another helpful resource in some communities can be found in curriculum and school supply stores. Many of these retailers offer classes for parents on "beginning homeschooling" and "homeschooling the high schooler". Even your local library may have similar opportunities. Don't be shy! It never hurts to ask.
Great Deals on School & Homeschool Curriculum
No matter where you are located, there is likely a group of other homeschool families that meets regularly to offer one another support and fellowship. Large cities are going to have more to offer in this realm. Some groups are designed to lend academic support to students, with parents sharing the teaching skills. Other groups meet strictly for social reasons, and still others fall somewhere in between.
Another helpful resource in some communities can be found in curriculum and school supply stores. Many of these retailers offer classes for parents on "beginning homeschooling" and "homeschooling the high schooler". Even your local library may have similar opportunities. Don't be shy! It never hurts to ask.
Great Deals on School & Homeschool Curriculum
Why Homeschooling?
There are as many reasons for homeschooling as there are families doing it. If you are reading this, chances are you are considering it yourself. You may be having trouble communicating your child's needs to the school he's currently enrolled in. Or maybe the headlines about violence in the schools is getting the best of you. You feel that your child isn't being challenged at school. Propaganda about same sex marriage, premarital sex and other moral issues are permeating your child's classroom walls. You have religious views that conflict with the teaching in your local school system. The list of reasons goes on and on.
But is home education really the right thing to do? Will you be sheltering your child too much? What about socialization? Can you handle teaching subjects on a high school level one day? These are the dark thoughts that strike fear in the hearts of prospective homeschool parents. And fear is the ultimate paralyzer. If you are to free your child from the chains of public education, you must first free yourself from these doubts.
Sheltering your child is actually your job as a parent. No child is born with the ability to navigate this cruel world on his own. He needs his parents to act as a buffer, creating a bubble in which to grow and enjoy the lavishes of being a child. Innocence is lost all too soon, and it can never be regained. Like a sapling tree that needs to be tied to a strong stake, children need to operate within a close circle around their parents and extended family to give them support and encouragement as they develop and grow. As the tree grows it's own sturdy root system and trunk, so the child gains self confidence and knowledge. The tie to the stake is loosened around the tree. So the parent opens up the circle around the child, allowing him to make more choices and explore farther from the home. Eventually the stake is removed from the tree, for no wind or strong rain can uproot it from it's foundation. The child also becomes rooted in the teachings of the parents, and is unshaken by the perils of the world. Homeschooling gives parents much more control over the growth and development of their children.
Lack of socialization is probably one of the biggest myths that overshadows the homeschool community. Most homeschool parents are actually overwhelmed with choices for social outlets for their children. Music lessons, church activities, support groups, cooperatives and community sports and clubs are just a few of the many ways homechool kids interact and flourish as "normal" children. Because homeschool children interact frequently with people of many ages, they can often converse with adults just as easily as with small children. Public school children spend most of their days grouped with children the same age. Therefore they are ones who often lack the social skills needed to hold an adult conversation or to relate to the needs of infants and toddlers.
Hopefully by now you are feeling more at ease about homeschooling. It really boils down to parent involvement and responsibility. But do you have what it takes to teach in your home? What happens when Chemistry or Algebra is on the agenda? The answer is simple. Even the best teacher or college professor is not without resources. If you run into a subject that intimidates you, seek help! You can study the subject yourself, staying ahead of your child in the curriculum. This keeps your brain sharp and allows for free continuing education for yourself. Or you can hire a tutor. Nothing says you cannot use outside sources to enhance your child's learning. Think of yourself as both teacher and school administrator, hiring additional instructors as they are needed. Many communities also offer homeschool cooperatives, hybrid homeschool-private schools that rely on parent volunteers for teachers. Even local community colleges are courting the homeschool student, offering dual enrollment opportunities for high schoolers wanting to earn college credits while they finish high school.
Homeschooling is rewarding in so many ways. Students can progress at their own pace and explore in depth subjects of great interest to them, in addition to the typical reading, writing and math. Resources are endless. The Internet, computer software, libraries, educational television programs and dvds, conventional curriculum and even tutors are fair game. Families can plan their own fieldtrips to give students more hands-on opportunities to learn.
But most of all, homeschooling keeps families close in their relationships with one another. Children grow up respecting parents as authority figures, teachers, mentors and companions. Parents stay connected to children through the trials of growing up, offering the love and support that fosters self confidence and responsible behavior. It's a win-win situation, but it takes hard work and dedication. Some parents view it as a sacrifice, but it is definitely the best investment anyone can make in the future.
But is home education really the right thing to do? Will you be sheltering your child too much? What about socialization? Can you handle teaching subjects on a high school level one day? These are the dark thoughts that strike fear in the hearts of prospective homeschool parents. And fear is the ultimate paralyzer. If you are to free your child from the chains of public education, you must first free yourself from these doubts.
Sheltering your child is actually your job as a parent. No child is born with the ability to navigate this cruel world on his own. He needs his parents to act as a buffer, creating a bubble in which to grow and enjoy the lavishes of being a child. Innocence is lost all too soon, and it can never be regained. Like a sapling tree that needs to be tied to a strong stake, children need to operate within a close circle around their parents and extended family to give them support and encouragement as they develop and grow. As the tree grows it's own sturdy root system and trunk, so the child gains self confidence and knowledge. The tie to the stake is loosened around the tree. So the parent opens up the circle around the child, allowing him to make more choices and explore farther from the home. Eventually the stake is removed from the tree, for no wind or strong rain can uproot it from it's foundation. The child also becomes rooted in the teachings of the parents, and is unshaken by the perils of the world. Homeschooling gives parents much more control over the growth and development of their children.
Lack of socialization is probably one of the biggest myths that overshadows the homeschool community. Most homeschool parents are actually overwhelmed with choices for social outlets for their children. Music lessons, church activities, support groups, cooperatives and community sports and clubs are just a few of the many ways homechool kids interact and flourish as "normal" children. Because homeschool children interact frequently with people of many ages, they can often converse with adults just as easily as with small children. Public school children spend most of their days grouped with children the same age. Therefore they are ones who often lack the social skills needed to hold an adult conversation or to relate to the needs of infants and toddlers.
Hopefully by now you are feeling more at ease about homeschooling. It really boils down to parent involvement and responsibility. But do you have what it takes to teach in your home? What happens when Chemistry or Algebra is on the agenda? The answer is simple. Even the best teacher or college professor is not without resources. If you run into a subject that intimidates you, seek help! You can study the subject yourself, staying ahead of your child in the curriculum. This keeps your brain sharp and allows for free continuing education for yourself. Or you can hire a tutor. Nothing says you cannot use outside sources to enhance your child's learning. Think of yourself as both teacher and school administrator, hiring additional instructors as they are needed. Many communities also offer homeschool cooperatives, hybrid homeschool-private schools that rely on parent volunteers for teachers. Even local community colleges are courting the homeschool student, offering dual enrollment opportunities for high schoolers wanting to earn college credits while they finish high school.
Homeschooling is rewarding in so many ways. Students can progress at their own pace and explore in depth subjects of great interest to them, in addition to the typical reading, writing and math. Resources are endless. The Internet, computer software, libraries, educational television programs and dvds, conventional curriculum and even tutors are fair game. Families can plan their own fieldtrips to give students more hands-on opportunities to learn.
But most of all, homeschooling keeps families close in their relationships with one another. Children grow up respecting parents as authority figures, teachers, mentors and companions. Parents stay connected to children through the trials of growing up, offering the love and support that fosters self confidence and responsible behavior. It's a win-win situation, but it takes hard work and dedication. Some parents view it as a sacrifice, but it is definitely the best investment anyone can make in the future.
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