March 2009
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.
MARCH 2009 ISSUE
Home School News and Events
Dear Home School Families and Friends,
We are excited to share with you some information about several events that may be of interest to home schoolers in the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas region. Please feel free to pass along this newsletter to the homeschooling families in your network.
If you would like for us to help you spread the news about an event or activity that your group is doing, or if you know of an event or activity that would benefit other home schoolers, please drop us a line at info@HEARTofTex.org so we can include it in the next issue of our bi-weekly e-newsletter.
We also have a “featured articles” section. We hope that you will find the articles that we will include to be informative, encouraging, and full of wisdom. If you or anyone in your group would like to submit articles, or have suggestions for future article topics, please contact us at info@heartoftex.org.
We would love to hear from you!
www.HEARTofTex.org
Our deadlines are as follows:
the 12th of the month, for the mid-month issue;
the 27th of the month for the issue that goes out at the beginning of the following month.
Thanks so much!
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Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc., (HEART of Texas) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving the home schooling support groups, leaders and families in our regional service area. Our mission is to provide leadership, training, resources and support within the home school community through communications, networking activities, and events directed at home school support groups, leaders, and families in the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas region.
This information is provided as a service to our fellow home schoolers. HEART of Texas does not necessarily endorse, warrant, or represent any of the activities, events, or organizations listed, or their content, views, opinions, or recommendations. Please use your own judgment when considering taking part in or attending any of these events or activities or visiting any of the websites or links provided. HEART of Texas assumes no responsibility for the content of any ads, promises made, or the quality/reliability of the products or services offered.
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~Highlights ~
MARCH 31
HEART OF TEXAS REGIONAL
HOME SCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT
Location: Grapevine Convention Center
1209 S. Main Street
Grapevine, TX 76051
List of Attending Colleges:
http://www.heartoftex.org/college/attendees/attendees.html
Admission:
(Pre-registrations postmarked on or before March 25)
$15/family
$10/family (HEART of Texas Members with valid family I.D. card)
Use Our Online Form and mail payment:
http://www.heartoftex.org/college/familyreg/familyreg.php
(Registrations at the Door)
$10 per person at the door (ages 5 & up)
($25/family maximum if more than 2 family members attend)
We can only accept checks or cash, please.
Speaking Sessions Offered:
David Orsag, Associate Director of Financial Aid at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor will talk about
various ways to fund college, and will discuss several options and tips for families who don't have lots of funds to send their kids to college.
Sarah Bowdin, Director of Admissions at the University of Texas at Tyler will share her tips for how to make your application and transcript stand out to an admissions officer.
Jean Burk of College Prep Genius will talk about strategies to get free college!
Shawn Cohen of CollegePlus will offer practical tips for saving money, such as CLEP tests and other strategies.
For More Information and College Night Schedule: www.heartoftex.org/college/college.html
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MARCH
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
FALL 2009 CLASSES
AT THEO IN PLANO
THEO offers home school classes for 6-12th grade students.
Here is a sample of what they are offering Fall 2009:
Saxon Algebra ½-Calculus,
BJU pre-Algebra through pre-Calculus,
Physical Science through Saxon Physics, including Apologia Physics and Chemistry
Spanish
JASON science curriculum
Texas history
Speech
Research and Debate
Institute of Excellence in Writing courses plus two other writing methods
Drama
Economics and Honors Economics
Government
Sign Language
Total Language Plus classes
BJU World History and Literature classes
Understanding the times
Ensemble a/k/a band a/k/a orchestra a/k/a pep band
Testing Available:
Stanford Achievement testing
Iowa Basic Testing (two day testing periods for three hours each day)
the weeks of May 18-22 and May 26-29.
For Complete List of Classes or More Information: www.THEOsonline.org
Location: 1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
Plano, TX 75075
For Questions: Click Here to email Terri
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MARCH
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
CHRISTIAN HOME SCHOOL PROM
April 3, 2009
Time: 7 p.m.
Location: Sheraton Hotel (formerly The Adams Mark)
Lone Star Ballroom
Dallas, TX
Theme: The Magical Time Machine
Admission: $85 (first 250 tickets)
$90 (second set of 250 tickets)
$95 (the last 275 tickets)
Online Registration: http://www.christianhomeschoolprom.org/
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MARCH
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
PROGRAM III -- MUSICAL JOURNEYS CONCERTS
FOR K-2ND GRADE STUDENTS
Available Dates as of Publication:
April 8 @ 10am
April 9 @ 11:30
April 14 @ 10am & 11:30am
April 28 @ 10am & 11:30am
Each show is approximately 45 minutes long.
Cost: $6/child; special needs students are free; lap children & babies free
Parking: $1 in Arts District Garage
Details: Take a magic carpet ride with the DSO to far off lands. First, an ocean voyage with Debussy’s La Mer will take students to the exotic land of Scheherazade (Rimsky-Korsakov), where fabulous stories are a daily occurrence. Then the tale of a young melody’s search for friends in the Texas premiere of What’s the Point of Counterpoint will introduce students to the concepts of rhythm harmony, and even counterpoint in this delightful new work by Victoria Bond.
To Make Reservations with credit card: www.dso.com
Or print out online form and mail with payment to:
Kristin Carpenter
Youth Programs Director
Dallas Symphony Orchestra
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
Schlegel Administrative Suites
2301 Flora Street
Dallas, TX 75201
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MARCH
JUST BETWEEN FRIENDS
CHILDREN'S CONSIGNMENT SALES IN NORTH TEXAS
Find great deals on children's and maternity clothing, toys, baby equipment, children's furniture, books, videos, and more.
NORTH RICHLAND HILLS -- MARCH 4-7
FORT WORTH -- MARCH 5-9
ALEDO/WEATHERFORD -- MARCH 26-28
MESQUITE -- MARCH 27-29
WICHITA FALLS -- MARCH 27-29
For Times and locations: click here
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MARCH 5
HOME SCHOOL DAY AT FORT WORTH ZOO
DISCOUNTED ADMISSION FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
If you were unable to register by February 25, you can still take advantage of the discounted admission on March 5.
Register on-site.
Admission:
Children 2 and under: FREE
Pre-K through 5th grade: $3.75/person
6th grade through College: $5.25/person
Adults: $5.50/person
Parking: $5 per vehicle (paid when entering park)
Location:
Fort Worth Zoo
1989 Colonial Parkway
Fort Worth, TX 76110
If you have pre-registered, but haven't picked up your tickets, they will be available at
Will Call at 9:30 on March 5.
For More Information: 817-759-7200
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MARCH 6
LIFE ON THE FARM: MANNERS & CUSTOMS
HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM IN PLANO
FOR AGES 6-12
Time: 10:30 a.m. (90 minute program)
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX
Cost: $8/child/program & $3/adult
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
Details: Children will experience the social manner and customs of children in a Victorian family.
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
For other programs in March: click here
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MARCH 6, 7, 8, 13, 14
COTTAGE THEATER PRESENTS:
THE SOUND OF MUSIC
AT THE CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION IN WATAUGA
Times: March 6, 7, 13, 14 - 7:30pm
March 7, 8, 14, - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Center for Home Education
(Formerly Creative Arts in Action)
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga, TX
Cost: $8/child; $10/adults; Free/lapchildren (no strollers or baby carriers please)
To Register: Call 817-281-2293
Featuring: Bethany Ahles, Jake Anderson, Kaitlin Bledsoe, Amelia Brown, Ashtyn Carrigan, Ethan Carrigan, Elizabeth Chastain, Lexi Cox, Sarah Cranford, Nate Davis, Megan Daws, Jake Etheridge, Andi Fredricks, Niki Fredricks, Jordan Graham, Bonnie Johnson, Emily King, Greg Lawrence, Abby McCarty, Robert Molina, Sophie Platt, Ryleigh Puckett, Laura Raborn, Rebecca Roberts, Tanner Schuldt, Laura Slezak, Daniel Sutton, Meagan Teske, Jennie Titiryn
Director - Anicia D. Brown, Stage Manager - Alicia Sutton, ASM - Hannah Carrigan, Sound - Portia Cox, Lights - Christopher Coan, Crew - Blake Redwine, Bradley Schuldt
Directed By: Anicia D. Brown Performing Arts Director, DFW, Texas
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MARCH 6-8
NORTH TEXAS IRISH FESTIVAL
FAIR PARK
This is a wonderful family friendly event, with a lot of special activities geared to children, and wonderful musician performances of all kinds on 7 stages by musicians, actors and dancers from around the world.
Free for children 15 and under.
If families arrive between 6 and 7 Friday night, they can get in free.
There is a special area just for kids called Urchin Street. Also, DART will have special transportation to the fair.
For More Information: Click Here
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MARCH 7
SPACE FRONTIER FAMILY SCIENCE ACTIVITY
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH TEXAS - DENTON
Time: 10am - 3pm
Location: University of North Texas
Elm Fork Education Center
Environmental Science Building
1704 W. Mulberry St.
Denton, TX 76201
Cost: $8/child (ages 3 and up); adults free
Bring a canned food donation and receive $1 off each ticket
Admission price includes 1 sky theater show, exhibits, activities, soda, & popcorn
GSA Badges: Badges; Discovering Technology,& Sky Search, TRY-ITS; Space Explorer
For More Information: Click Here
Details: This is a hands-on science event for the whole family!
Put on your seat belts because we are taking off! Join us as we dive into hands-on Astronomy & Physics experiments. Ride a Hover Craft, try to drive a simulated Mars Rover, see if you can handle a worm hole, participants will enjoy exhibits, activities, demonstrations and a Sky Theater show! We will also have our Little Explorer's Area for ages 3-6.
Sky Theatre shows are first-come, first-served, and are held at 11:15; 12:45, and 2pm (schedule subject to change on event days)
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MARCH 7 - APRIL 14
DALLAS BLOOMS
AT THE DALLAS ARBORETUM
This year's theme: "Dallas Blooms – It's a Classic"
Over the years, it has grown to be the largest outdoor floral display in the Southwest,
featuring 450,000 spring-blooming bulbs including tulips, daffodils, Dutch iris, and hyacinths
which will bloom alongside over 100,000 pansies, violas, poppies, and thousands of other spring annuals and perennials.
Admission: $9.50/adults; $8 seniors 65 and older; $6/children 3-12; Free/under 2
Buy One, Get One Free Wednesdays (with coupon)
AT&T Senior Citizen Thursdays - 65 and older pay only $6.50
Group Discounts: Available for 20 or more.
On-Site Parking: $5
The Arboretum is wheelchair accessible and tram service is available for the mobility impaired.
Hours: Daily 9am - 5pm; closed Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year's Day
Location: 8525 Garland Road, Dallas 75218
For More Information: www.dallasarboretum.org
To Read the Full Article: click here
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MARCH 8
GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA PRESENTS
"YOUNG VIRTUOSI"
MYERSON SYMPHONY CENTER
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Location: Meyerson Symphony Center
2301 Flora Street
Dallas
Tickets: $8-$30
To Purchase Tickets: 214-528-7747 or at the Meyerson Box Office on the night of the performance
The concert features five winners of the 2009 GDYO Concerto Competition. Christina Kwon, violin will perform the Sarasate, Ziegeunerweisen. Four horns (Alex Kovling, Laurel Roseborrough, Reese Farnell and Rhema McGee) will perform Schumann’s Konzertstuke. Other works performed included Tchaikovsky’s Capriccio Italien and Brahms’ Symphony No. 2.
For more information: www.gdyo.org or click here to email.
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MARCH 9
CONSERVATION IN ACTION WORK DAY & TOUR
FOSSIL RIM
Time: 9a.m. - 2:30
Cost: $16/person (2 and under free)
Details: In the morning, learn about different ways you can conserve natural resources
and participate in an on-site conservation project.
Bring a picnic lunch. After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
Other Homeschool Events in March:
MARCH 23 -- Fossil Dig at Fossil Rim
This is a multi-level event; all ages will benefit.
Time: Fossil Dig: 10-Noon
Lunch Break: Noon - 1pm
Guided Bus Tour of Fossil Rim: 1-2:30ish
Cost: $16/person (2 and under free)
Details: We will take a bus down to the fossil pits and spend some time searching for marine fossils. During our bus tour, meet our current (non-marine) animal residents.
Bring a picnic lunch. After lunch, take a guided tour of Fossil Rim!
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
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MARCH 11
NIP & TUCK'S BARNYARD BUDDIES
STORYTIME FOR PRESCHOOLERS
DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE
RSVP By March 10
Time: 11a.m.
Cost: $5/participating child; 1st adult free; additional adults $7
Theme: Wood Works
Book: Miss Meg will read Henry Builds a Cabin by D.B. Johnson
Details: Dallas Heritage Village’s Mammoth Jack Donkeys, Nip and Tuck, welcome parents and preschoolers every 2nd and 4th Wednesday this spring to the Renner School for a story or two and to make a craft relating to the month’s theme.
To Make Reservations: 214-413-3674 or click here to send an email
To Purchase Tickets Online: Click Here
For More Information: Click Here
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MARCH 11 & 12
NATURE AWARENESS DAY CAMP
BIRDS, BIRDS, BIRDS
CAMP TONKAWA
Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm
Cost: $15 if preregistering by mailing in your registration and payment.
$18 walk ins welcome (MUST call in to let us know you plan to join us)
$10 for 4 year olds
Free for children under 4 and parents
To Register: 903-429-6483
Bring your own lunches and note or sketch books to create a Nature Journal from what you learn during your visit to Camp Tonkawa
Group Rates: Groups of 12 or more will receive a group rate of $12/child.
Large groups can schedule a date that best suits them.
Other Camps at Camp Tonkawa in March:
March 2009
15-17th - Western Days Spring Break Camp
19th - Trot Horsemanship Day Camp
20-22 - Primitive Survival Skills Class 1 & 2
28 - Horsemanship Day Camp
29th - Primitive Survival Skills Day Camp - Winter
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MARCH 12 & 14
HEART OF TEXAS DISCOUNT TICKETS
1/2 PRICE GAME TICKETS & EDUCATION DAY
DALLAS STARS HOCKEY
As a reader of this newsletter, you can take advantage of special
HEART of Texas Discount Tickets for Dallas Stars Games on March 12 & 14.
March 12 & March 14 games are 1/2 price if you mention HEART of Texas!
Purchase game tickets and receive free admission to the Education Day on March 12!
Education Day: $10/person
For more Information: Contact Kyle Norris at 214-387-5515
The Dallas Stars are in Partnership with HEART of Texas.
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MARCH 13 & 30
DEADLINE FOR ARTISTIC DISCOVERY
CONGRESSIONAL ART CONTEST
FOR DISTRICT 24 & District 3
MARCH 13 - District 24 Deadline
MARCH 30 - District 3 Deadline
Congressmen Kenny Marchant and Sam Johnson encourage all high school students residing in the 24th & 3rd Districts of Texas to participate in this contest.
This year celebrates the 28th Annual Congressional Art Competition—An Artistic Discovery. The nationwide art competition, which is voluntarily sponsored by Members of Congress, allows creative high school students to showcase their talents in Washington, D.C. in the U.S. Capitol Building. The first place winner in each Congressional District will have their winning entry displayed at the U.S. Capitol for one year. The winning artist will be invited to fly to Washington, D.C. for a national reception honoring the winning artists from all over the country.
Who Can Participate: All high school students including homeschoolers.
Acceptable Medium: Paintings (oil, acrylics, watercolor); drawings (pastels, pencil, charcoal, ink, markers); two-dimensional collages; prints (lithograph, silkscreen, block prints); mixed media; computer generated art; and photography. All work must be original in concept, design, and execution, and must not violate any U.S. copyright laws.
Contacts for Additional Information:
Rep Kenny Marchant's Office: Amanda Post at 972-566-0162
Rep Sam Johnson's Office: Deanna Kuykendall at 972-470-0892
For Other Participating Districts: click here
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MARCH 13
LIVING HISTORY DAYS: 1800-1840
AT SOUTHWEST REGIONAL RENDEZVOUS
SCHOOL DAY FIELD TRIP
Time: 9a.m. - 3p.m.
Cost: FREE
To RSVP: 940-538-5610
Directions: From Nocona: Take FM 103 north approximately 1/2 mile to FM 1956.
Turn east on FM 1956 and travel approximately 7 1/4 miles to the SWRR gate.
From St. Jo: Travel approximately 5 1/2 miles to FM 1815.
Turn north on FM 1815 and travel approx. 4 3/4 miles to FM 1956.
Turn west and travel approximately 1 mile to the SWRR gate.
Demonstrations:
Tomahawk Competitions, Knife Competitions, Archery Competitions, Rifle Shoots, Firestarting
Beadwork, Quillwork, Leather Bag Making, Soap Making, Tatting, Flute Playing, Basket Making
Flint Knapping, Dutch Oven Cooking, Story Telling, Inkle Loom Weaving
For further information contact: Jan Kitlinger at 940-538-5610 or click here to send an email
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MARCH 14
SAT TEST DATE
Late Registration Deadline: February 24
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MARCH 16
APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR
GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS
VIOLIN, VIOLA, CELLO & BASS
Audition Dates: March 25, March 27, March 30, April 3, April 4
AUDITIONS FOR:
Young Performers Orchestra, Dallas String Ensemble, Sinfonietta, Philharmonic, & GDYO
For More Information or To Receive An Application:
Click here to email or call 214-528-7747
www.gdyo.org
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MARCH 16-20
SPRING BREAK ENRICHMENT CAMP
AT CERC IN ROWLETT
Deadline to enroll: March 10
Time: 9am - 2pm
Grades: 1-4; and 5-8
Each group will enjoy 5 different session every day:
Sessions: Manners on the Menu
DynamiteDrama
Books By You
Movin' N Groovin' to Music
Art from Tators to TyeDye
Cost: $120 (materials fee included in tuition.
Family Enrollment Fee: $25 if you are not already enrolled)
www.cerconline.org
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MARCH 17
MARCHES IN MARCH
Time: 8pm
Location: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
Special Seating reserved for bands only.
Group Discounts: Once the School Zone is full, group discount rates will apply. 2049 single tickets receive a 15% discount. 50 or more tickets receive a 20% discount. Must be purchased in advance and subject to availablility.
To Reserve: 214-528-5576
Details: Bands love to play marches, and audiences love to hear 'em. Here's a rare treat for anybody who's crazy about a marching song. The band will play foot-lifters from march masters like John Williams, Karl King, and of course the immortal John Philip Sousa. If you like marches, you've gotta be here! And if that weren't enough, our very own Principal Flutist, Melinda Wilson, will premiere a brand-new windband transcription of Lowell Liebermann's Concerto for Flute.
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MARCH 19
TROT HORSEMANSHIP DAY CAMP
CAMP TONKAWA
Cost: $75
Bring your own lunch.
Class limit 6-8. Age 10 years old and up.
Class Description: A fun filled day for you "Horse Lovers" to play with our horses.
Prerequisite: Basic Horsemanship Day Camp and/or pre-approval by our staff. You must have some horseriding experience. We hope you'll remember what we taught you and can now practice it all. This will include the haltering, leading, grooming, tacking up and then riding. Followed by the cooling out and feeding. We'll start with an introductory ride working on proper posture, cueing and gaits. A horse Obstacle Course will be used to make it interesting and to measure your progress. Then we'll hit the road for a Trail Ride.
Camp Tonkawa DOES have some helmets (various sizes) , or bring your own
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MARCH 20
DEADLINE FOR NOMINATIONS
2009 HOME SCHOOL LEADER OF THE YEAR
TO BE RECOGNIZED AT THSC AWARDS BANQUET IN AUSTIN APRIL 24
Each year, THSC sponsors a Home School Leader Appreciation Week in Texas to honor support group leaders who sacrificially give of their time and energy serving home schoolers and promoting home education. In conjunction with Home School Leader Appreciation Week, THSC presents the coveted "Home School Leader of the Year" award to outstanding leaders. This award is based on testimonies by appreciative members of their groups.
To nominate a leader:
1. Complete the Home School Leader Nomination Form.
2. Submit the form, along with at least three letters of recommendation from different support group members.
(Hint: More letters of nomination carry more weight.)
Letters of recommendation should explain why this individual/couple should be nominated for Leader of the Year.
Only one leader/couple may be nominated per group.
The support group leader/couple who is chosen will be invited to and honored at THSC's annual Awards Banquet, which will be in Austin on April 24.
For More Information: www.thsc.org
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MARCH 20-22
CHRISTIAN BOOK EXPO
DALLAS CONVENTION CENTER
This is the largest Christian conference ever!
Meet the authors who have enriched your spiritual life and shaped your faith!
Hear the life-changing message of your favorite Christian authors in person, through workshops, Q
& A sessions, author discussions, book signings, and family-friendly events.
Over 200 authors, 150 seminars and workshops, Kidzone activities, a Bible History Exhibit (with a working replica of the Gutenberg press), Christianity Today-sponsored panel discussions,
the Christian Book Award dinner, inspirational evening programs, and tens of thousands of
books to peruse and purchase.
Cost: $29 a day or $59 for all three days!
Kids 17 and under attend free!
To Register: www.ChristianBookExpo.com.
Enter code "cbe5off church5off" in the Discount Coupon section of registration to save $10 off admission!
Authors include Stephen Arterburn, Henry Blackaby, Wanda Brunstetter, Shaunti & Jeff
Feldhahn, Jim & Elizabeth George, Ruth Graham, Alex & Brett Harris, Kevin Leman, Beverly
Lewis, Max Lucado, Scot McKnight, Calvin Miller, Donald Miller, Stormie Omartian, J.I.
Packer, Andy Stanley, Lee Strobel, and Sheila Walsh, with more authors registering every
day!
Find complete program information, author list and registration at
www.ChristianBookExpo.com.
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MARCH 21 & 28
TEACHING FROM A BIBLICAL WORLD VIEW SEMINAR
FEATURING DANA TILLMAN
IN WEATHERFORD AND HALTOM CITY
MARCH 21 -- Weatherford
Time: 9am - 1pm (refreshments served at 8:30)
MARCH 28 -- Haltom City
Time: 9am - 1pm (refreshments served at 8:30)
Cost: Love Offering
Curriculum will be available for sale.
For More Details: Click here
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MARCH 24 & 31
FREE PE CLASSES DURING MARCH
HULCY HOMESCHOOL PE FREE OF CHARGE
OPEN HOUSE ON 2 TUESDAYS IN MARCH
Time: Girls: 2:00pm - 3:30pm
Boys: 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Location: Heights Park in Richardson
(off Floyd Road between Beltline & Arapaho)
Details: Come see why after 22 years of providing fun, sportsmanship, challenging sports in a Christian atmosphere to kids ages 6-12, Hulcy PE is one of the oldest and most beloved PE classes in the Dallas metroplex.
Football, soccer, baseball, track and field, dodge ball, kickball, and capture the flag as well as family campouts and year end Field Day at the Hulcy Estate complete with tree houses, bonfires, and hayrides, make this class a hit for any child and every family.
"This class is so much fun that I want every homeschool family within driving distance to try it for FREE! I have never had a kid come and try our class and leave. Come see for yourself why we have been in the business of kid's sports for so long." -Rhett Hulcy
Contact for More Information: 214-695-5560
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MARCH 27
DEADLINE FOR SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN SCHOLARSHIP AWARD
SPONSORED TEXAS CONFERENCE ON AGING
Award: $500
Details: TCOA will be presenting ONE $500.00 SCHOLARSHIP per year to either a Senior or Junior (soon to be Senior) High School student who is making plans for college and who has been raised by their Grandparents or a Grandparent.
Applicant must write an essay: "What This Scholarship Means to Me"
Additional Criteria:
1. Must be a Grandchild who has / is currently being raised by a Grandparent.
2. Must be a High School Senior or Junior at time of Application.
3. Must provide Proof of good academic standing.
4. Must provide a Letter of recommendation from a principal or teacher.
5. Must provide Statement of Family Income for the past year.
To Apply for this Scholarship:
Please submit the Essay and Supporting documents, all at the the same time, in the following manner:
• Cover Page with Name, Address, Phone Number, School, and Grandparent(s) Name(s)
• Essay should be no less than 400 words. (Two (2) Page Maximum; Double Spaced)
• Typed with one (l) inch margins
• Letter(s) of Recommendation
• Proof of Good Academic Standing - (Report Card or Transcript)
Send to: Kaye Grayson, Chair - T.C.O.A. Student Scholarship Committee
Grapevine Senior Center
421 Church Street
Grapevine, Texas 76051
Or Click here to Email
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MARCH 28
CLEOPATRA (PG-13) PERFORMANCE
AT MAJESTIC THEATER & BASS HALL
SPECIAL HOMESCHOOL PRICING!
We are pleased to announce that Texas Ballet Theater has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special ticket prices to homeschoolers! Any homeschooler can take advantage of these tickets. Just mention HEART of Texas when you call.
The performances and dates that are available for the special homeschool price are:
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
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MARCH 29
FINAL DAY
LET THERE BE LIGHT ART EXHIBIT
GALLERIA PIERRA IN UPTOWN DALLAS
Time: Wed/Sat: 10am-5pm
Thurs/Fri: Noon - 8p.m.
Sun: 1-5pm
Cost: Free - donations welcome
Location: Galleria Pierra - in Uptown
3012 Fairmount, Dallas, TX 75201
Details: 90 original works by 22 nationally-acclaimed artists
Featured works by Thomas Blackshear, Michael Dudash, Ron DiCianni, Chris Hopkins, Tom DuBois, Max Greiner, Dan Gerhartz, Frank Ordaz, Mick McGinty, C.W. Mundy, Tim Solliday, David Broussard, Kim Ragsdale & More
To Schedule a group tour: Click Here to email or 972-839-4031
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MARCH 30
APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR
GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS
PERCUSSION & HARP
Audition Date: April 8
AUDITIONS FOR:
Philharmonic, Wind Symphony, & GDYO
For More Information or To Receive An Application:
Click here to email or call 214-528-7747
www.gdyo.org
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MARCH 31
DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR THSC CAPITOL DAY
APRIL 7
Location: Austin
Capitol Days attendees will enjoy fun and memorable training sessions on how a bill becomes law and how to lobby. They’ll have hands-on experience as they head to the Capitol and meet and lobby legislators. Each month, varying topics will be addressed, depending on the current issue of concern for Texas home educators.
NEW FOR 2009! – Good Citizen Pack
Students will gain a fuller understanding of government and the Texas legislature through the activities, projects, and reading in the Good Citizen Pack. Good Citizens who complete the pack will be recognized at the Home School Rally and by the House of Representatives in a House Resolution for their accomplishment! Simply order yours on the Capitol Day Registration form.
Other 2009 Capitol Day Dates
Tuesday, April 7 (Rally Day) -- Registration deadline: March 31
Wednesday, May 6 -- Registration deadline: April 29
Rally - April 7
In support of the Texas Parental Rights Restoration Act and in celebration of Home School Week in Texas, the Home School Rally will be held at the state Capitol building on April 7, in conjunction with the April Capitol Day. A home school choir will perform, and legislators and other state officials will speak in support of home schooling. All home schoolers are urged to come!
For More Information: http://www.thsc.org/capdays.asp
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MARCH
REGISTRATION OPEN FOR
HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES AVAILABLE AT VELOCITY
(Discount for HEART of Texas members)
We are very excited to announce that the Velocity Performance locations in Highland Park and Southlake have partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special discounts to homeschoolers!
The PE programs at Velocity are taught by trained, degreed coaches who have coached college, professional, and Olympic level athletes.
Classes are one hour long, and focus on speed enhancement, strength, power, agility, core development, flexibility, and balance. Participants can expect increased muscle tone, a higher vertical jump, better running form, reduced likelihood of injury, increased confidence and increased endurance.
Their 16,300 square foot indoor facility is climate-controlled and features turf, track, hard court, and weight areas, as well as a viewing area for parents/guests.
For the Highland Park Location:
Call Mark Cox at 214-739-1122
www.velocitysp.com/highlandpark
For the Southlake Location:
Call Emily Hubbard at 817-416-0606
www.velocitysp.com/southlake
Please Note: Each Velocity location is independently owned and operated, and offer different pricing and discount rates for their classes. Please contact the location directly for more information.
Discount: HEART of Texas Members receive a discount on classes!
See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/partners.html for more details.
To learn more about HEART of Texas membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
(Click on the links below)
FEATURED ARTICLES
Every Man's Fight for Freedom– by Tim Lambert
How to Lessen Test Anxiety – by Jean Burk
From Living Room to Front Lawn: Performances Spark Prose, Personality, and Passion – by Jessica Hulcy
Dallas Arboretum Celebrates 25 Years Dallas Blooms - It's a Classic," March 7 - April 12
Texas Ballet Theater Offering Homeschoolers Discount Tickets on Their Best Seats!
NEST Family Learning Offering Discount and Free Shipping to Our Readers
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
LIBRARY PROGRAMS
1. Library Programs at North Texas Libraries -- North Texas
Other Libraries are Welcome to Include Their Events – contact info@heartoftex.org
Bedford Public Library
Fort Worth Public Library
Hurst Public Library
McKinney Public Library System
Tyler Public Library
READING REWARD PROGRAMS
2. Book It! Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
3. Braums Book Buddy Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
4. BEST Robotics 2008 Preview: Just Plane Crazy! -- Texas Best
5. Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Entries Due March 31, 2009
6. National Engineers Week -- Future City Competition
7. USA Mathematical Talent Search -- Contest Over
8. Igniting Creative Energy Challenge for K-12 -- Entries Due February 13, 2009
9. Robofest 2009 -- Registration Open
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
10. City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
11. City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
12. Texas Home School Coalition Good Citizenship Award Program -- State-wide
CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
13. Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
14. National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30
HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
15. THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
16. Christian Cottage Prep -- Fort Worth
17. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
18. Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas -- Cedar Hill/SW Dallas area
19. Cooke County Cotillion for Home Schooled Teens -- Gainesville
20. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
21. Eastfield College -- Mesquite
22. Enrichment Classes, Inc. -- Lewisville
23. Faith Christian Academy -- McKinney
24. Fabulous Fridays -- Little Elm
25. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
26. Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes -- East Dallas
27. Homeschool Heritage Domus Schola -- Keller
28. Legacy Home School Enrichment Program at First Baptist Euless -- Euless
29. Homeschool Theater Classes at PFAmily Arts --- Plano
30. Tarrant County College -- High School Math and Science Classes for Home Schoolers
31. Venture Home School Classes -- Colleyville
32. YMCA/Irving Home School Classes -- Irving
BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
33. Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
Dallas - March 7
White Settlement - March 7
Hurst - March 19-20
Arlington - March 25-29 (spring sale)
Denton - March 27-28
34. Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
35. Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
36. Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
37. Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
38. Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
39. Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
40. Fossil Rim
41. Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
42. Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
43. Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
44. Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
45. Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
46. Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas
PERFORMING ARTS
47. Performances at Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse --Fort Worth
Miss Nelson is Missing -- February 20 - March 8B
48. Performances at CATS -- Arlington
Boxcar Children -- February 27 - March 8
49. Cottage Theater – Creative Arts in Action -- Watauga
The Sound of Music – March 6-13
50. Theater Performances at Artisan Center Theater -- Hurst
My Fair Lady - March 6-April 11
Artie's Children's Playhouse: Disney's Alladdin - March 14-April 18
51. Performances at Bass Performance Hall -- Fort Worth
High School Musical On Stage - March 10-15
52. Dallas Children’s Theater -- Dallas
The Tale of Peter Rabbit -- March 20 - April 19
53. Plano Children’s Theater -- Plano
Music Man -- June 5-7
54. Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Homeschool Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
Cleopatra - March 28 (Bass Hall)
55. Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
Frost/Nixon – April 28-May 3 (Magestic Theater)
ART MUSEUMS
56. Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
57. Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs
58. Kimball Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
Paintings from an Altarpieceby Fra Angelica -- Through February 15
59. Museum of Nature & Science -- Dallas
Raise the Roof: An Exhibit About Buildings (now open)
Your Incredible Body
60. Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
Living in Space is Out of This World --- Through May 10
61. Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas
George Segal: Street Scenes -- Through April 5
IMAX/OMNI THEATERS
62. Shows at the Dallas Imax Theatre -- Museum of Science and Nature
Wired to Win
Journey into Amazing Caves
63. Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
The Dark Knight: The IMAX Experience (Rated PG-13) -- (through March 5)
Dinosaurs Alive (through June 18)
Deep Sea (through June 18)
Grand Canyon Adventure: River at Risk
HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
64. Programs at Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
65. Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
66. Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS
67. Aledo Christian School's Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, Softball Teams -- Aledo
68. Berne Academy's Varsity Boys Basketball Team -- Lancaster
69. Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
70. Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen
71. Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
72. Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
73. Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers
74. Home School Athletic Association
75. THESA Riders Home School Association
76. Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
77. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Highland Park
78. Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Southlake
79. Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
80. Parker-Tarrant Home School
81. Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
82. Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas
83. Arlington Association Home Educators (AAHE) -- Arlington
84. Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton
85. How Now Homeschooling -- Plano/Frisco/Allen/McKinney area
86. Keller 4H Club Meetings -- Keller
87. Lewisville Area Speech and Debate Club -- Lewisville
88. North Irving Christian Home Educators -- Irving
89. Park Day Drama Club -- Plano
90. Ready to Answer Speech and Debate -- Decatur
91. SALT Co-Op -- DeSoto
92. Homeschoolers Offering Moms Encouragement (HOME) -- Flower Mound
COLLEGE PREP
93. SAT Test Dates
94. SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas
COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
95. Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship -- Deadline December 1, 2008
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
96. Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
97. Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdVENTURES
98. Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Hot Meals and Friendship -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
99. Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Meals on Wheels of Johnson & Ellis Counties
100. Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals at The Stewpot -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
101. Private Piano Lessons in Your Home! -- Dallas Area
102. Teen Pact Texas Capitol Classes -- Austin -- March/April
103. Just Between Friends Consignment Sales in March
104. Teaching From a Biblical World View Seminar -- Weatherford - March 21 & Haltom City - March 28
105. HEART of Texas Regional Home School College Night -- Grapevine -- March 31
106. Spring Festival at Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano -- April 4
107. Just Between Friends Spring/Summer Sale-- Arlington -- April 3 & 4
108. Application Deadline for Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra (Wind & Brass) -- Dallas -- April 6
109. THSC Annual Awards Banquet Featuring Lt. Gov. David Dewhurst -- Austin -- April 24
110. Ellis County Used Curriculum Sale & Expo of Homeschooling -- Waxahachie -- April 17
111. HEART of Texas Homeschool Expo of Area Resources for Teaching -- Hurst -- April 18
112. Carole Joy Seid Returns to Dallas/Ft. Worth -- Carrollton -- April 18
113. SPCA Adoption Event at Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano -- April 26
114. Hearth & Home Ministries Home School Book Fair -- Arlington -- May 8 & 9
JOB OPENINGS
115. Check-In Receptionist, Check-Out Receptionist, and Technician Positions Open -- DeSoto Area
116. Great Opportunities for Students at Pump It Up of Grapevine
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Every Man's Fight for Freedom
--by Tim Lambert, Texas Home School Coalition
This article comes from Mr. Lambert's blog: Right in Texas and is reprinted with permission.
I sometimes meet members of the Texas Home School Coalition Association who say that they support THSC because we work hard to protect parental rights and the freedom to home school so they can focus on other things. While I appreciate the kindness of their comments, the reality is that no one person or group alone can effectively defend the freedom of parents to direct the education and upbringing of their children.
We are able to accomplish much in defending home schooling and parental rights in Texas because of our experience and the relationships we have with elected officials across this great state, but we can't fight every battle alone. Just this week, we were successful in forcing a community college to change its policy of refusing to allow home school students to take dual credit classes. While this may see like a local issue, the underlying problem was with state law, which requires that every student be treated in the same manner. After ignoring letters from THSC, the college officials responded when we contacted state legislators and the offices of the governor and lt. governor for assistance. Rather than threaten them with legal action, we brought political pressure to bear, and the issue has been resolved.
In a similar way, with the help of the governor's office, I met yesterday with the new commissioner of the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) to ask for help on a couple of problems that home schoolers have encountered recently with CPS. The commissioner's staff responded to a letter I had written a couple of weeks ago, asking for a ruling on whether or not home school groups are exempt from childcare licensing as educational groups. CPS caseworkers had ruled that home school co-ops were not exempt, because they were not accredited schools. DFPS officials agreed with me and will correct local CPS officials; they will be giving us that ruling in writing. Again, this issue was based on state statutes and the incorrect interpretations of CPS workers at the local level.
Some battles, however, must be fought and won at the local level. Daytime curfews are a good example of this. Unfortunately, state law allows cities and counties to adopt daytime curfews that can be detrimental to home schoolers. Since state statute allows this, the only way to defeat these measures is political opposition at the local level. A great example of this is the battle in the Dallas area to rollback the daytime curfew there. We join a lot of local home school leaders across the state in working against these measures. We provide information and advice on tactics and strategy to these leaders, and many have been successful in defeating daytime curfews in their cities or counties. While we write letters to some of these governmental entities at the request of local leaders, most local officials couldn't care less about the opinion of a home school organization not in their city. These efforts are almost always defeated by a good number of voters who express their opposition with well reasoned arguments and facts. Cities in which no opposition is expressed end up with such ordinances in place, to the detriment of the freedom of parents in the area.
THSC Association continues to work at the state level to oppose proposed legislation that will erode our freedom and to challenge state officials when they wrongly interpret laws. Our success is, and will continue to be, due to God's grace and to home schoolers across Texas who respond when it is needed to protect or promote our freedom. Each of us needs to be attentive to the actions of our government at the local, state, and national levels to make sure that we don't wake up one day and realize that our freedom has been lost. One way to stay informed is to subscribe to the weekly THSC PAC E-Newsletter, that relays many news items related to these types of issues.
Tim Lambert is the president of the Texas Home School Coalition, our state advocacy organization whose purpose is to help protect home school freedoms. For more information about THSC, please visit their website at www.thsc.org. To read or subscribe to Mr. Lambert's blog, please visit www.rightintexas.com
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FEATURED ARTICLE
How to Lessen Test Anxiety
--by Jean Burk
Many students are not “good test-takers." This is usually because they don’t understand the test or how to take it. Taking the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests can be a very stressful experience, but preparation and knowledge can alleviate the test anxiety that many students face. Here are some important steps to help aid the test-taking fear that seems to loom over students:
1. Know the rules for each section ahead of time.
The rules for each section of these tests always stay the same so learn them long before
the real SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. This not only saves time, but students will
know what to expect in each section.
2. Create a similar test environment.
Many students don’t realize that these tests are very long and require mental endurance to
finish them without running out of steam. The SAT itself is around 3 ½ hours long. One
way to prepare for this academic marathon is to practice just like the real test. By creating
a test environment like the real test, this can eliminate any surprises and help with test
success. Practice like this:
1. Start the practice test around 9:00 am.
2. Take only a five minute break in-between sections.
3. Use the same watch and calculator that will be used at the real test.
4. Make sure the testing area is free of distractions.
5. Time each section correctly.
6. Use a watch with a chronometer or set a second-hand watch at 12:00 for each section.
7. Keep several sharpened pencils nearby.
3. PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE!
The key to doing just about everything well is to practice. Someone who plays a sport or
learn an instrument cannot expect to win a game or perform their best concert without
practicing. The same applies with these standardized tests. After learning the test-taking
strategies, students should practice with actual College Board practice tests. The more
they do this, the quicker they can find the recurring patterns and the faster they can
answer the questions. The students, who usually score the highest, have made practicing a
priority; they have put at least three to fours hours a week into practicing, over the entire
year, and a few months leading up to the real test, they have treated it like a marathon.
4. Take PSAT/NMSQT for practice in both freshman and sophomore years.
The score will not count but it will help familiarize students with the test and they will
get their test booklet back in the mail. It usually arrives in the spring after the
October test. The test score arrives later. When you receive it, go over your mistakes and
find the patterns that were missed. Students can also use the booklet to retake the test
later and see how much they’ve improved. (Retaking it can be beneficial since most
students forget the questions.)
5. Take the PSAT/NMSQT in your junior year when it counts.
Many guidance counselors and teachers have mistakenly told their students that this test
is not a big deal and should only be used for measurement on how well they might do on
the SAT test. This one test can give students amazing scholarship offers from colleges all
over the nation. If a student scores in the semi-finalist range, they can literally get a full ride to numerous colleges because they are in the top 1% of the nation. This test only
counts in their junior year or the third year they take it.
6. Take the SAT many times.
There are no penalties for taking the SAT many times, so students should take it until
they get their desired score. Colleges do not average the tests but take the highest scores.
Many colleges will even take the highest score from each section from different tests to
get the student’s best overall score. Every college is different when it comes to their
desired entrance score as well as entry level for starting scholarships, so make sure you
check with the college(s) of your choice.
7. Test Day Success
The day of the test can be a successful experience with some keys preparation tips.
1. Avoid any SAT work the day before.
2. Wake up early-eat a light breakfast.
3. Have the correct driving directions and leave early
4. Take the appropriate items to the test.
a. registration ticket
b. several sharpened pencils
c. same calculator & watch used in practiced
d. dress in layers (rooms are often cold)
e. bring a snack-earplugs if easily distracted
Test-taking fear can stop students in their tracks. Stress can also hinder a student’s performance because of the undo pressure on them. But preparation long before the actual test is the key to lessening the anxiety that students face. They can not only become a “good test-taker” but also get the “good” scores.
Jean Burk is a published author, speaker and teacher. Her "Master the SAT Class" has been featured on NBC, CBS and Fox To sign up for her free report, "Good-Bye Student Loans, Hello Free College," go to www.collegeprepgenius.com. You can contact Jean at 81-SAT-2-PREP or click here to email her.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
From Living Room to Front Lawn: Performances Spark Poise, Personality, and Passion
--by Jessica Hulcy
The Medieval Feast was the culminating show-and-tell event for my KONOS History of the World II students. There was much planned for the main event that would begin at 5 PM when all the parents arrived. What we were attempting was so massive…feed 125 people a medieval dinner, perform not one but TWO Shakespeare plays, and demonstrate all that we had learned throughout the year! Ridiculous! I wondered if it would all come together???
Preparing the Atmosphere
Mothers had been busily buzzing through the house the entire day helping students prepare the menu as well as setting up and decorating tables on the lawn for the feast. Our guest list had grown to about 125 as grandparents, cousins, and friends were included. My house was quickly out grown, so the feasting tables were moved to the side lawn. With so many tables we were fast running out of our combined stash of silver candelabras and silver serving pieces.
The menu of meat-loaf boar’s head, baked potatoes, carrots, salad, and cherry tarts was simple enough; there was just so much volume! Fortunately, we had purchased our bread to make trencher plates from the medieval bakery called Sam’s and were not baking it ourselves! The authenticity of the meal would make clean-up a breeze. The plates would be consumed, the guests would eat with their fingers, so no silverware need be washed, and the dogs would feast on leftovers thrown on the ground.
The stage, which was usually my living room, had to be moved outside as well. The balcony on the front of the house would be great for Romeo and Juliet, but the side of our house where Henry V was to be performed was anything but medieval looking. I pow-wowed with my moms. The shields each student had designed for heraldry were taped to the side of the house and a large lion was painted on cardboard to cover the glass paned door. But the windows still looked very un-medieval. Then one of the mothers volunteered some “nasty green polyester fabric” which provided perfect window draping! Tah dah! Instant medieval backdrop!
Fashioning the Program
Our year had been filled to the brim with papers, literature, history, and Bible; however, those were not the things one could demonstrate for an audience. Needlework segments of the Bayeux Tapestry, stained glass projects, illuminated manuscripts, and drawings of Romanesque and Gothic cathedrals displayed students’ artwork endeavors, while large, detailed maps displayed their geographic acumen. The more tangible, demonstrate-able things were the fun activities that had given the real flavor of the Middle Ages to the students. Archery, fencing, Gregorian chants, and English country dancing had thrust us back in time. Plus students had loved every minute of scoring “stabs” on each other in fencing and whirling each other in dancing. With gusto, they demonstrated each of the activities and then asked the parents to join in the dancing.
Instilling Poise
Next came our plays. The students had practiced diligently, but both plays were highly dramatic. We had added music and a very necessary sound system on the performance day, since we were outside. With only a halfway run-through with the mikes, I shuddered to think of the absurdity of using six microphones on six people with zero practice. This would be a real test of poise.
Poise is a manner, a presence, a way of carrying or handling of one’s self with grace and dignity no matter what the situation. A poised person emits confidence. How can a teacher take unsure, tentative teenagers with hormone swings and fragile egos and give them poise? By having confidence in each student’s ability to accomplish, the teacher gets the self-confidence ball rolling. I hammer on my students, “Sit up.” “Hold your head up.” “Walk with dignity.” “Remember who you are.” I never entertain the idea that anything is too difficult or unattainable for them.
Second, acting poise is taught by breaking acting movements into tiny bite size pieces. I constantly tell students what to do with their hands, their feet, their heads, and their voices. I remind them that certain movements show force, other movements show doubt, and still other movements show supplication. I demonstrate how to speak with anger, pity, gentleness, and sarcasm. Working on all the little individual parts, makes the whole attainable. That principle is true for everything taught. Great teaching is instructing in bite size pieces and teaching poise is no different.
Third, poise begins at the kitchen table. Wise teachers do not require first graders to quote Hamlet; rather, first graders begin to build poise by showing Daddy how a sound wave travels through the ear they built under the dining room table. Children develop poise by first performing small, impromptu show-and–tells in the presence of their family where they feel comfortable. As children grow older, the audience size grows larger, the parts become longer, and poise increases.
Shaping Personality and Conscience
Some people are born with a dynamic personality and others are just shy, right? It is true each person is born with personality tendencies, but personality can be trained into children as well as modeled for them. When students are taught to operate outside of themselves and be other-directed, they develop an out going personality. Once you have donned your mom’s or Mrs. Hulcy’s old dress with tights to look like a medieval Englishman, simply walking up to a stranger and introducing yourself wearing regular attire hardly seems difficult! Personality is really about how interested you are in others and how at ease you make others feel, not how self-conscious you feel. I had to smile at William as he walked around serving the boar’s head in my old purple dress. He hammed it up, and everyone loved him. What confidence!
But, before you can make others feel at ease you must be at ease yourself. Small Barnum and Bailey performances in the living room create a sense of ease and help shape an out-going personality. That fact was brought home to me as the Henry V performance progressed. I watched as one of the students delivered a flawless speech with a perfect Welsh accent, and my mind flashed back two years to the first time this student turned in a paper to me. Each student was supposed to write what he or she wanted to improve in. James failed to put down what he wanted to improve in; instead, he wrote, “Please do not ever make me get up in front of people.” What music that Welsh brogue was to my ears and heart.
Passionate Enthusiasm
At the beginning of this year I told my high school class they had no passion, no boundless enthusiasm, no zeal, no zest. “Why do we need passion or enthusiasm?” they queered.
I pointed to two dynamic Bible teachers who pastored in the Dallas metroplex, Chuck Swindoll and Tony Evans. Both men are known nationally for their dynamic and passionate proclamation of the gospel. Both men create an energy when they preach. If they were not passionate and enthusiastic about their message, who would listen to the truth they proclaimed? Of course, the message is of primary importance and, God is in control of who hears, yet the delivery of the message, which is the responsibility of the deliverer, can woo people or turn people away. Passion can be a powerful tool.
To develop passion in my students for the medieval period, we had spent the year studying people of passion. Becket passionately defied his king and defended the church. Joan of Arc passionately roused the French to arms against the English. Henry V, according to Shakespeare, rallied the English with his Saint Crispian’s Day speech. As I listened to Jim in the role of Henry V deliver his Saint Crispian’s Day speech, music welled in the background. His voice grew louder. I looked around at the misty-eyed parents … misty because they were moved by Shakespeare’s stirring words and proud of Jim’s stirring performance.
From Henry V to Romeo and Juliet the evening was a stellar success . . . not just because the performances were excellent, but because of the growth that had occurred in the students through the year.
Slowly the passion, the boundless enthusiasm had emerged. Perfect poise, dynamic personality, and powerful passion . . . all learned in the living room of a home. I smiled. What a privilege to teach minds and train hearts. What a privilege to see students challenged and rise to the occasion. What a privilege to be a part of the growth of the next generation.
Jessica’s Gems
For tonight’s dinner you might consider dining on the head of a wild boar made from lean ground beef, oatmeal, eggs, a smidgen of milk, sautéed onions and bell peppers, and salt and pepper to taste! Mix just like meatloaf minus the red sauce and then shape into the head of a boar. Do not make boar’s head too large or it will not cook all of the way through. Cover the ears and snout with foil to prevent burning while cooking. until done. Bake at 350º .
Shape celery sticks in ice water for curly tusks. You may need to use toothpicks to hold the curl while celery is in the ice water. Green olives with pimiento centers make great eyes. Do not forget the apple in the boar’s mouth. You may want to cook the head with an apple in place, remove the apple after cooking, and replace with a fresh apple. Garnish with fresh parsley all around the head. Serve on a silver tray.
Jessica Hulcy is co-author of KONOS Character Curriculum. To learn more about KONOS, please visit their website at www.konos.com.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Dallas Arboretum Celebrates 25 Years With "Dallas Bloom - It's a Classic" from March 7 through April 12
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of the Dallas Arboretum’s largest festival Dallas Blooms, presented by Chase, beginning March 7 through April 12. This year’s theme, ‘Dallas Blooms – It’s A Classic’ emphasizes that the festival is now a signature event that millions of people have enjoyed. MSN has even stated it was one of the top ten things to do in the country in spring. Over the years it has grown to be the largest outdoor floral display in the Southwest and will feature 450,000 spring-blooming bulbs including tulips, daffodils, Dutch Iris and hyacinths which will bloom alongside over 100,000 pansies, violas, poppies and thousands of other spring annuals and perennials.
As a part of ‘Dallas Blooms, It’s A Classic’, The Dallas Arboretum also launches its Storybook Playhouse exhibit. Fourteen area architects were selected by a jury chaired by Mrs. Laura Leppert to build playhouses based on classic children’s stories. The exhibit on the Arboretum grounds will open to the public March 7 and stay in the garden through December 2009. “Each winning entry will be placed in exclusive spots throughout the garden hand picked by the Dallas Arboretum horticulture department. The playhouses will each be sited in the landscaped area that best captures the theme of the story throughout the changing seasons”, Dave Forehand, Vice President of Gardens at the Dallas Arboretum, commented.
Those entries chosen by a panel of local media and literacy advocacy leaders include:
• Peter Pan-HKS Architects
• James and the Giant Peach-Perkins and Will
• Eragon-FKP Architects
• One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish-TBG Partners
• The Little Prince-Page Southerland Page
• Treasure Island-CSD Architects
• The Lorax-Schrickel, Rollins and Associates
• Hope for the Flowers-Gensler
• City Green-La Terra Studio
• Thumbelina-Corgan Associates
• The Owl and the Pussycat-Larson & Pedigo
• Teremok-Urban Design Group
• Alice in Wonderland-Baez Consulting
• The Bamboo Cutter’s Daughter-Corgan Associates
Everyday of the festival will be a celebration. A highlight will be the 25th Anniversary Cake Topiary. Over 13 feet in height, stuffed with 735 cubic feet of sphagnum moss, it will be adorned with dusty miller silver, dichondra and white petunias. Daily activities include live music in the Dann Talley Kincheloe Courtyard from 11am-2pm, an artist creating silhouettes for a nominal fee from 11am-3pm and Storybook Playhouses available for tour. Wednesday and Thursday mornings this year will feature guided tours for a limited number of guests.
Kimberly Clark’s Mommy & Me Mondays and Children’s Medical Center Tiny Tot Tuesdays will return from March 9-April 6. Activities run from 10am-2pm and include: James French Photos with a live bunny ($15), arts and crafts, a petting zoo, story time, face painting 10am-1pm, creative movement 11am-11:30am, and Kindermusik with Miss Lisa 12-12:30pm.
The weekends are also exciting with additional activities: such as wagon rides nominally priced ($3.00 per person) 11am-3pm. Selected photograph areas are suggested for guests and jazz standards are played by Arthur Riddles on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage from 1-4pm.
Guests are invited to enjoy the Great Easter Activities Weekend: April 11, 12-4pm and April 12, 1-4pm. Activities will include James French photography with a live bunny ($15), a petting zoo, a visit from the Easter bunny and face painting. Be sure not to miss children’s musician Eddie Coker on Good Friday, April 10 at 11am and 2 pm on the Martin Rutchik Concert Stage.
Those needing a relaxing activity with friends and family can make reservations for the noted Dallas Arboretum Seated Tea $35.00 per person at 11am and 2 pm. Reservations are required, so please call (214)515-6610 or sign-up online at dallasarboretum.org.
While enjoying the Playhouses and the floral displays in the garden, guests may stop by the Hoffman Family Gift Shop for featured storybooks and other unique gifts.
Artscape, a fine art exhibit and sale on the Arboretum Grounds will take place on Saturday, March 21, and Sunday, March 22 from 9am-5pm. It has become a highlight for all fine art enthusiasts over the last four years, including over 90 artists from around the country. They work in various mediums including: painting, watercolor, pastel, drawing, photography, fiber, jewelry, glass, wood, sculpture and 2-D and 3-D mixed media. The DeGolyer House will feature a special art exhibition called Garden Gallery that will run through April 12th of work selected by a jury and completed at the Dallas Arboretum.
Special discounts during the festival include “Buy One Get One Wednesdays” with a coupon available on the Dallas Arboretum website and “AT&T Senior Citizen Thursdays” where seniors 65 and older pay only $6.50 for admission.
For further information on the 25th Anniversary of ‘Dallas Blooms, It’s A Classic’ the Storybook Playhouse exhibition, Artscape and other events visit www.dallasarboretum.org or call (214) 515-6500.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Society, Inc. is located on the southeastern shore of White Rock Lake at 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas 75218. The Arboretum is open daily from 9am-5pm, and is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. General admission is $9.50 for adults, $8 for seniors 65 and older, $6 for children 3-12 and free for Arboretum members and children two and under. On-site parking is $5. The Arboretum is wheelchair accessible and tram service is available for the mobility impaired. Group discounts of twenty or more are available with advantage registration. For more information and other events, call (214) 515-6500 or visit the Arboretum’s website at www.dallasarboretum.org
The Dallas Morning News is the principal partner of the Dallas Arboretum. The Arboretum is supported, in part, by funds from the Dallas Park and Recreation Department. WFAA-TV Channel 8 is an Arboretum media sponsor and American Airlines is the official airline of the Dallas Arboretum.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
Texas Ballet Theater Offering Special Ticket Prices for Homeschoolers!
We are pleased to announce that Texas Ballet Theater has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer special ticket prices to homeschoolers! Any homeschooler can take advantage of these tickets. Just mention HEART of Texas when you call.
The performances and dates that are available for the special homeschool price are:
Cleopatra (PG-13) – March 28 at 2pm at Bass Hall
Homeschool Pricing: $20/ticket (best available seating)
To Reserve Tickets: Call Cyndee Weeks 877-828-9200, ext 126
You will need to mention "HEART of Texas" when you call to get the special rate.
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FEATURED ARTICLE
NEST Family Learning Offering Discount and Free Shipping to Our Readers!
NEST Family Learning has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer a special discount to readers of our newsletter!
For a limited time, you can enjoy an additional 15% discount on materials plus FREE shipping on orders of $49 or more.
Simply visit
http://www.nestlearning.com/c-5-homeschool.aspx?s_cid=heart to start shopping and begin enjoying your savings today! Use coupon code "HEART" when placing your order.
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CALENDAR OF EVENTS
1. LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES
Summer Reading Programs, Clubs, Story Times, Events, Activities, and more! Libraries in North Texas are gearing up for an action-packed, fun-filled summer that will inspire a love of reading!
To find out what programs your local libraries have going on, visit the website below. It includes links to public libraries all over Texas, so you and your kids can get in on the adventure of reading.
http://www.publiclibraries.com/texas.htm
BEDFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 1805 L. Don Dodson Drive
Bedford, TX 76021
817-952-2342
Contact: Jeannie Green
TUESDAYS -- Sprouts Story Time
(for the more active child)
Time: 10 a.m. – 10:20 a.m.
Bonnie Finn Room
TUESDAYS -- Story Book Club
(for the child who is ready to be a sitter and llstener)
Time: 11 am. – 11:25 a.m.
Bonnie Finn Room
THURSDAYS -- Peapods Story Time
(for babies 2 years and under and their caregiver.)
Bonnie Finn Room
Registration is required for this program.
For More Information: Contact Kids Help Desk at 817-952-2373
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FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY
CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location: 500 W. 3rd St
817-871-7701
DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location: NE 35th Street
817-624-7331
EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location: 4300 E. Berry St.
817-536-1945
EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 6301 Bridge St.
817-871-6436
MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location: 2800 Stark St.
817-451-0916
NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location: 601 Park Street
817-626-8241
RIDGLEA LIBRARY
Location: 3628 Bernie Anderson Drive
817-737-6619
RIVERSIDE LIBRARY:
Location: 2913 Yucca Avenue
817-838-6931
SHAMBLEE LIBRARY
Location: 959 East Rosedale St.
817-871-6621
SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location: 4001 Library Ln.
817-782-9853
SUMMERGLEN LIBRARY
Location: 4205 Basswood Blvd.
817-232-0478
WEDGWOOD LIBRARY
Location: 3816 Kimberly Ln.
817-292-3368
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HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location: 901 Precinct Line Road
Hurst, TX 76053
817-788-7300
Contact: rreynaro@ci.hurst.us
TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS -- Story Time for ages 3-6
Time: 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
MONDAYS & THURSDAYS -- Toddler Time for ages 1-3
Time: 10:00 – 10:30 a.m.
MONDAYS -- Chess Club (elementary ages and up)
Time: 4:00 – 5 pm
SECOND TUESDAY OF MONTH -- Chapter Chats (4th-6th graders)
Time: 7-8pm
Details: Do you enjoy talking about books? Here’s your chance! Share your views with other kids who have read what you have!
To Find Out Which Books We'll Be Talking About Each Month: Call 817-788-7302
ON EXHIBIT:
FOYER DISPLAY:
GALLERY WALL:
HISTORICAL GALLERY:
To put your collection on exhibit at the Hurst Library: Contact the Information Specialist to fill out a form with your contact information and a description of your collection. To be considered, personal collections must meet the Library display criteria.
Live Homework Help (online tutoring)
Hurst Public Library now offers Live Homework Help
Subjects: math, science, social studies, and English
Time: 3pm - 10pm
Cost: Free - must have a Hurst Library Card
How To Access: Visit www.hurst.lib.tx.us
From a library computer, or from your home PC or Mac
Spanish-speaking tutors are available to help students in math and science.
All sessions are confidential and monitored for quality and safety.
For More Information: Call Youth Services at 817-788-7302 or www.hurst.lib.tx.us
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McKINNEY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Location: 101 E. Hunt Street
McKinney, TX 75069
972-547-READ
Contact: Wendy Turner – wturner@mckinneytexas.org or 972-547-7319
HOME SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR FALL 2008
Registration is required.
DECEMBER 4: Getting to Know Your Library
*Please choose one date to attend.
Grades: K—3rd
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Dulaney Room
Details: Participate in a special program to learn more about the library and the Children’s Dept.
DECEMBER 8: Basic PowerPoint
Grades: 4th—6th
Time: 3:30 p.m.
Conference Room (Upstairs)
Details: Gain hands-on experience and make a basic PowerPoint presentation.
DECEMBER 15, 22, 29 & JANUARY 5, 12: Texas BlueBonnet Book Club
Grades: 3rd—6th
Time: 3:15 p.m.
Children’s Department
Details: The Bluebonnet book club will meet five times to discuss all of the 2008/2009 Bluebonnet book nominees and then participants will vote for their favorite nominee.
Program Calender: Click Here
For More Information: Contact Wendy Turner at 972-547-7319 or wturner@mckinneytexas.org
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TYLER PUBLIC LIBRARY
(all events are free and open to the public)
Location: 201 S. College Ave
One block southwest of the square in downtown Tyler
Contact: Evelyn James – 903-593-7323 – programs@tylertexas.com
Preschoolers DayCare StoryShare
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
Time: 10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Friends share stories, songs, and books with childcare groups.
Please email or call to register
ReadAloud Crowd
WEDNESDAYS & THURSDAYS
Time: 10:30 in the Storyroom
Storyteller Evelyn James and friends share songs, stories, and simple crafts with preschoolers and their families
AfterSchool Rules!
THURSDAYS
Time: 3:30 – 5:00 in Taylor Auditorium
A reading incentive program for children in grades K-5
Reading games and activities PLUS! One on one reading time with middle and high school “reading buddies”
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2. BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM
ENROLL TODAY FOR 2008-2009 PROGRAM
(individual families only may enroll)
Who Can Participate: Children in grades K-6.
The Book It! Reading Program is sponsored by Pizza Hut and runs from October 2008 through March 2009. It is available for children in grades kindergarten through sixth grade.
The reading program allows the children to earn free personal pan pizzas for meeting their reading goals.
Important Note: This year, the Book It! Program is changing its enrollment procedures for home schoolers. Support groups will no longer be able to register families for the program. Each family will need to enroll individually to be able to participate.
For Program Information: http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/k6enroll.asp
To Enroll Your Homeschool: http://www.bookitprogram.com/enrollment/pub_priv_enroll.asp
Book It! Hotline: 1-800-426-6548
Hotline hours: 9:00 am - 4:00 p.m. CT (Monday through Friday)
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3. BRAUMS BOOK BUDDY PROGRAM
NOW ENROLLING FOR 2008-2009
The Braum's Book Buddy program gives children the opportunity to read for delicious prizes from Braum's!
Who Can Participate: Children in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
Program Runs: September through end of school year.
Reward: Each child can earn up to six Braum's treats throughout the year including Single Dip Sundaes, Single Dip Ice Cream Cones and more! The best part...it costs nothing to participate in Braum's Book Buddy reading program. We're happy to offer this program to elementary schools and home schools absolutely free! At Braum's, we want to promote a positive attitude in children for a lifetime love of reading.
How does Book Buddy work?
Teachers distribute Braum's Book Buddy booklets to their students and then monitor book reading by placing a Book Buddy sticker in the student's booklet for each book read. When a student has read six books, the teacher rewards the student with a coupon for a free treat from Braum's!
To Enroll:
Send us a written request for enrollment information on school letterhead to:
Braum's Book Buddy Reading Program
PO Box 25429
OKC, OK 73125
Upon receipt of your written request (and upon meeting criteria) we will add your school to our mailing list and your school will automatically receive information on the program each year. Braum's Book Buddy program is a great way to encourage children to read and earn prizes at the same time!
For More Information:
www.braums.com/bookbuddy.asp
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4. BEST ROBOTICS 2008 PREVIEW: JUST PLANE CRAZY!
BEST is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, science, and technology through participation in a -like, science- and engineering-based robotics competition.
Get the first look at the theme for next year's competition!
Visit: http://www.bestinc.org/MVC/
YES Program Information
Igus® Inc. offers free products through the Y.E.S. (Young Engineers Support) Program, designed to foster the mechanical design ideas and inventions of students who have a passion for engineering. The program aims to not only support students and engineers, but also educate them on the merits and benefits of plastic components. The program offers donations to students and engineering competitions across the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The benefits of the Y.E.S. Program are boundless for both igus and
young engineers.
To get an extra copy of the 2008 Product Data Guide included in your igus kit?
Download it here: www.igus.com/yesprogram/
ATTENTION FIRST TEAMS!
Due to the excited, enthusiastic, yet overwhelming number of requests from FIRST teams this season, igus must alter its policy regarding its product donation to teams. As of February 1, 2008, igus will only be able to donate products included in the original kit of FIRST parts to teams.
Student Sample Request Form
If you are a student or individual involved with an engineering project or robotics competition who would like request products, please fill out the Student Sample Request Form located at
www.igus.com/yesprogram/student_request.asp
Please note that the Y.E.S. Program is not limited to students, but also welcomes requests from all individuals or organizations competing in robotic and autonomous vehicle competitions.
Curriculum Product Request Form
If you are a teacher, professor or advisor and would like to request products and information to incoroporate into your curriculum or would like an in-class presentation from a cable carrier or bearings expert, please fill out the Curriculum Product Request Form located at
www.igus.com/yesprogram/curriculum_request.asp
For more information on the Y.E.S. Program:
Please contact Courtney Toomey, Y.E.S. Program Administrator at (800) 521-2747 ext. 146
or via e-mail at ctoomey@igus.com
or visiting www.igus.com/yesprogram
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5. TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST
ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31, 2009 (ongoing annual contest)
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is the official host for the Texas State-Fish Art Contest sponsored by Wildlife Forever. All Texas entries in the annual contest are to be sent to TFFC for judging. Winning Texas entries will be forwarded to Wildlife Forever to compete for national best of show and art of conservation stamp honors.
Who Can Participate: All Texas students in grades 4 through 12.
Categories: State-Fish Art Contest entries are judged in three categories: grades 4-6, grades 7-9 and grades 10-12. One Texas winner from each category is selected each year.
Winners are invited to attend the national awards ceremony at Minnesota's Mall of America each summer. Winning designs will be featured on the official State-Fish Art website. One piece of artwork in each grade category will be selected as the national best of show winner, and one entry will be chosen as the annual art of conservation stamp award and be featured on Wildlife Forever's conservation stamp for the coming year. Entries must be postmarked by March 31 each year and must comply with all rules and regulations. An official entry form must accompany all entries.
How to Enter: Students must create an illustration of the Texas state fish or one of the other state fishes and write a composition on its behavior, habitat and conservation. Texas students are encouraged, but not required, to depict the Texas state fish, the Guadalupe bass. Texas entries are judged only against other Texas entries no matter what fish is depicted.
About the Contest: The State-Fish Art Contest is part of a conservation education program designed to spark the imaginations of students while providing valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas' aquatic resources. We also offer you the choice to use our free lesson plan.
For Rules:
http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/rules.phtml
For More Information: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/visitorcenters/tffc/education/fish_art/
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6. NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION FOR 7-8TH GRADERS
This program gives middle school students a fun way to tackle real-world
problems while building their math, science and technology skills.
Ages: Teams of seventh and eighth grade students, with the guidance of a teacher and an
engineer, design a city using SimCity software.
Cost: Cost is minimal and we provide the software.
The winning team gets a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals.
Details: Last year was the seventh year DFW hosted a regional competition. More
than 600 students participated. Dozens of engineers have already signed up
to support the 2007-08 competition. We need your help to notify middle
school teachers of this exciting, worthwhile opportunity, which is aligned
to national educational technology standards***.
For More Information: Contact Jean Eason at j.eason@ieee.org
or visit www.dfwfuturecity.org
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7. USA MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH
2008 CONTEST OVER
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8. IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CONTEST FOR K-12
FEBRUARY 13, 2009 --- ENTRY DEADLINE
The Challenge is an incentive based educational opportunity for students K-12 throughout the U.S. and much of Canada. Students are asked to use their creative energy to develop entries in the categories of Visual Arts and Music, Science and Technology, and Language Arts. Entries are to relate to the theme "Igniting Creative Energy" and demonstrate character building as it applies to wise energy choices and environmental stewardship. The entries are also to demonstrate an understanding of what an individual, family or group can do to make a difference in their home or community.
Who Can Enter? All students, kindergarten through 12th grade in the United States and Canada are invited to enter. Void in Quebec. Travel Prize Winners must be students and teachers at an accredited K-12 public or private school and may not be immediate family members of Johnson Controls, Inc., USEA or National Energy Foundation employees.
Can home school students enter? Yes. All students K-12 are invited to enter. However, home school students are not eligible for the grand prize.
Awards: There are separate prizes for elementary, middle school and high school students in addition to a teacher prize. The grand prize in each category is a trip for two to Hawaii. In addition to the national grand prizes each state has a prizewinner.
Various local, state and national partners are providing extra awards and recognition above and beyond the national grand prize trip:
1. The highest scoring student in each state and province will receive a prize package valued at $1,000 U.S. If you are a national winner, you will not be recognized as a state or province winner.
2. A lighting project winner will be announced. The student with the highest scoring project that addresses lighting as it related to the theme Igniting Creative Energy will win a special prize for the student and an energy-efficient lighting upgrade for a designated area within his or her school. If you are a national grand prize winner, you will not be eligible to win this award.
3. Some cities, state energy offices, and individual school districts wanting to recognize students in their specific geographical areas are sponsoring local challenges. Click on Local Challenges to see the participating areas and the awards that are available.
Official Online Entry Form: Click here
Mail In Entry Form: Click Here
For Guidelines: Click Here
To Enter:
Follow these simple steps:
1. Think about how you use electricity, gasoline, natural gas...energy (ex. electricity, gasoline, natural gas and/or if you could use less or how you could help your community use less).
2. Think of a creative new way to use less energy.
3. Use your talents and skills to create an exciting unusual project that will communicate your idea to someone else. Your project could be a science project, essay, story, artwork, photograph, music, video or web site project.
4. Write a one page explanation of how your project relates to the theme. Be sure to include the following: * What motivated you to enter this Challenge?
* What actions and ideas are you trying to express?
* What is the impact of your project in your life and/or in the lives of others?
5. Make sure your name is on your project.
6. Complete the entry form. Make sure that you have your parents or legal guardian and teacher sign it.
7. Mail your project, entry form and explanation to:
IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CHALLENGE
NATIONAL ENERGY FOUNDATION
145 South 400 East
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
8. Wait patiently.
9. Sit back and feel great about doing something yourself to conserve energy and help the environment.
10. Grand Prize winners will be notified.
If you aren't selected for the Grand Prize trip, no worries there is always next year. Plus you may be featured on the ICE web site for the world to see.
For More Information: Click Here
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9. ROBOFEST ROBOTICS COMPETITION 2009
Who: Students in Grades 5-12
Robofest is an annual autonomous robotics competition focusing on learning STEM (Science, Engineering, Technology and Math) for students in grades 5 - 12. Robofest challenges teams of students to design, build, and program robots to compete in the following categories in two age divisions:
* Game Competition - A team of students competes to accomplish robotics missions using fully autonomous robots.
* Exhibition - Each team has complete freedom to show off any creative autonomous robotics project they have created.
* RoboFashion & Dance Show
* Vision Based Mini Urban Robot Challenge
2009 Season Schedule
* 2009 Rules was announced and Registration began on Dec. 11, 2008
* Jan ~ Feb: Workshops (check out Workshop Participation Requirements, pdf )
* Feb 28, 2009: Warm-up competition at Lawrence Tech in Michigan
* March ~ mid April 2008: Qualifying Competitions
* May 9, 2009: World Robofest 2009 Championship (Please note the date change!)
2009 General Information
* Robofest FAQ | How to start a Robofest team (Powerpoint, 256KB)
* Robofest Mentoring Programs / Robofest Academy - on-site classes
* 2009 General Flyer (pdf)
For Rules, Team Registration, and Participation Forms: Click Here
For Frequently Asked Questions: Click Here
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10. CITY OF FORT WORTH YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD
In recent years, there has been a growing trend to involve youth in local government. The Fort Worth City Council believes that the voices of young people are important. To facilitate that, the Council has approved a new Youth Advisory Board for the City of Fort Worth. The Youth Advisory Board will advise the City Council on issues regarding the youth in the City of Fort Worth. A brief summary of the Youth Advisory Board follows.
Who May Apply: High school age students who are between the ages of 14-18 and who reside in Fort Worth may submit an application for consideration for appointment to the advisory board.
Purpose:
The Youth Advisory Board shall:
• act in an advisory capacity to the Fort Worth City Council;
• study youth issues important to the community;
• encourage youth to become actively involved in matters pertaining to the community; and,
• act as a source of information and education on issues important to youth.
Members:
The Youth Advisory Board shall be composed of 27 members who will meet bi-monthly.
Activities:
To be determined by the Youth Advisory Board, following the direction of City Council.
Contact For More Information: Carol Everhart at carol.everhart@fortworthgov.org
Community Relations Department, School and Youth Outreach
1000 Throckmorton, Fort Worth, TX 76102
817.392.8444 817.392.7529 (fax)
For an application: http://www.heartoftex.org/downloads/downloads.html
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11. CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS TEEN COURT
Teen Court benefits both youth and community by providing an alternative method of adjudicating juvenile offenders and allowing teen volunteers to learn about the judicial system, while documenting Community Service hours.
Who Can Volunteer: Full time students ages 13-18 who are in PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR HOME SCHOOLS.
Volunteers may serve as jurors for our Teen Court sessions, or once trained, can act as a defense attorney or prosecutor in our Teen Court trials.
Teen Defendants are held responsible for their behavior while giving them the opportunity to participate in and become knowledgeable about the judicial system. Juvenile Offenders "pay" for their offense(s) by performing community service and participating in Teen Court. Volunteer teen attorneys present offender's cases to a jury of their peers.
Upon successful completion of the program, offender's cases are dismissed and do not appear on their permanent records. Teen Court alleviates the strain on the regular court system, besides giving juvenile offenders a second chance. The program also provides youths in the area a chance to participate in the judicial process.
Location: North Richland Hills Teen Court
6720 N.E. Loop 820
North Richland Hills, Tx 76180 817-427-6705
To Volunteer: Contact Heather Hollingsworth at hhollingsworth@nrhtx.com
For More Information: http://www.nrhtx.com/dept_courts_teen.aspx
You may also come to Teen Court on any night Teen Court is in session to observe, prior to signing up to be a volunteer.
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12. TEXAS HOME SCHOOL COALITION GOOD CITIZENSHIP AWARD PROGRAM
Do you ever scratch your head when thinking about how to fulfill the requirement of a "study of good citizenship"? THSC offers a Good Citizenship Program, which rewards students for their participation in the political process and helps them fulfill that requirement.
Certificates are printed, upon request, for students who have volunteered at least forty hours in Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process, in any combination.
Each year the program culminates with rewards presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet. The volunteer hours may be tracked on a form that can be downloaded and printed as often as needed. Students will be granted eight hours for each Capitol Day attended.
Please note that, while certificates will be issued upon request at any time, the awards will be given based on hours worked between April 1, 2008, and April 1, 2009. The forms must be postmarked or e-mailed no later than April 1 if students are to be considered for awards.
What is a course in good citizenship: For a detailed description, please visit: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_program.asp
The Good Citizenship Certificates and Awards
THSC has instituted an ongoing program to recognize home school students who participate in good citizenship activities with its Good Citizenship Certificate. This certificate will be awarded to each student who participates with at least forty (40) hours of volunteer work in any combination from the following areas: Voter Registration, Political Party Process, Campaign Process, and Legislative Process.
Home school students may be awarded THSC Good Citizenship Certificates at any time following the completion of 40 hours of good citizenship work.
Any home schooled student who earns a Good Citizenship Certificate is automatically entered into the competition for THSC’s Good Citizenship Awards. The following awards recognize the Texas students with the most volunteer hours (highest number of voters registered for the Alamo Award) in each category and are presented at the annual THSC Awards Banquet.
Alamo Award
New voters can be registered most easily when an adult becomes a deputy voter registrar. The parent or support group member can then work with home school students as a deputy voter registrar to take voter registration cards to people who fill them in and give them to the deputy voter registrar. These completed cards will then be delivered by the deputy voter registrar to the voter registrar of the county. Home school students can use meetings of support groups, church meetings, and other gathering to register new voters. Deputy voter registrars will be responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Alamo Good Citizenship Award to the student who registers the most new voters in Texas for each year.
Ranger Award
Credit for the certificate may also be earned by volunteer work in the campaign of candidates for public office. Any local, state, or federal campaign qualifies for this effort. Campaign officials are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Ranger Good Citizenship Award to the student with the most hours of volunteer work in political campaigns.
Lone Star Award
Home school students may earn credit for good citizenship in the political party process by volunteering to help at precinct, county/senatorial, or state conventions or other political party functions of their chosen political party. Political party officers are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Lone Star Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours in the category of the political party process in Texas.
Republic Award
Finally, credit for this certificate may also be earned by students who are involved in the legislative process at any local, state, or federal level. Time spent in working for or against any particular issue qualifies. Parents or leaders of any group working on such issues are responsible for documenting the number of hours completed by home school students in this area for credit toward the THSC Good Citizenship Certificate. In addition, THSC will award the Republic Good Citizenship Award to the home school student with the most hours each year in the category of the legislative process.
The THSC Good Citizenship Certificates will be mailed to students upon receipt of verification from the officials documenting the hours. The Alamo, Ranger, Lone Star & Republic Awards will be given to winners at the THSC Awards Banquet held each year.
To View a Sample Certificate: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship_certificate.asp
To Download the Good Citizenship Registration and Tracking Form: http://www.thsc.org/good_citizen/good_citizenship.asp
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13. CERTIFICATES OF SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION
District 24
Congressman Kenny Marchant, U.S. House of Representative, would like to give each graduating senior, who resides in the 24th District of Texas, a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
The certificates will be printed with the name of the senior and will be signed by the Congressman.
The completed certificates will then be mailed directly to the senior’s home address.
If interested, please send the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to:
tammi.bartlett@mail.house.gov or call Congressman Marchant’s office at 972.556.0162.
Address:
Congressman Kenny Marchant
9901 E. Valley Ranch Parkway, Ste. 3035
Irving, Texas 75063
To find out if your Congressman has a similar program, please contact your representative:
To Locate Your Representatives:
www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/
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14. ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL HIGH SCHOOL ART COMPETITION
2009 ART COMPETITION
"An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives. Each Congressional District may host its own competition, and since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.
This spring, several North Texas Congressional offices will hold contests. The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! In addition, the winners and their two guests are invited to the nation's capital in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists from across the country and opening the 2008 "An Artistic Discovery" exhibition. Thousands of people visiting the nation's capitol, as well as Members of Congress and their staffs, are able to walk through the exhibit daily, viewing artwork from Congressional districts throughout the country—each piece highlighted with the name of the work and student artist.
Who Can Participate: All high school students including homeschoolers.
Acceptable Medium: Paintings (oil, acrylics, watercolor); drawings (pastels, pencil, charcoal, ink, markers); two-dimensional collages; prints (lithograph, silkscreen, block prints); mixed media; computer generated art; and photography. All work must be original in concept, design, and execution, and must not violate any U.S. copyright laws.
Interested students and teachers should contact their congressional office ASAP for more information.
CongDist/Member Contact Phone Deadline
TX-3/Rep. Sam Johnson Deanna Kuykendall 972-470-0892 March 30
TX-4/Rep. Ralph Hall Natalie Raulston 972-771-9118 April 24
TX-5/Rep. Jeb Hensarling Sarah Rozier 214-349-9996 April 7
TX-12/Rep. Kay Granger Marcia Etie 817-338-0909 April 20
TX-24/Rep. Kenny Marchant Amanda Post 972-556-0162 March 13
TX-26/Rep. Michael Burgess Joan Self 972-434-9700 April 3
TX-30/Rep. Eddie Bernice Johnson Janis Brooke 214-922-8885 April 10
TX-32/Rep. Pete Sessions Sandy Pappas 972-392-0505 April 3
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15. THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
FALL 2009 CLASSES OFFERED (this is not the complete list):
Saxon Algebra ½-Calculus,
BJU pre-Algebra through pre-Calculus,
Physical Science through Saxon Physics, including Apologia Physics and Chemistry
Spanish
JASON science curriculum
Texas history
Speech
Research and Debate
Institute of Excellence in Writing courses plus two other writing methods
Drama
Economics and Honors Economics
Government
Sign Language
Total Language Plus classes
BJU World History and Literature classes
Understanding the times
Ensemble a/k/a band a/k/a orchestra a/k/a pep band
For Complete List of Classes or More Information: www.THEOsonline.org
Testing Available:
Stanford Achievement testing
Iowa Basic Testing (two day testing periods for three hours each day)
the weeks of May 18-22 and May 26-29.
Location: 1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
Plano, TX 75075
For Questions: Click Here to email Terri
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16. CHRISTIAN COTTAGE PREP
Christian Cottage Prep is taking applications for the 2008/2009 Academic Year!
CCP is a unique educational experience. The all-girl classes for grades 6th-8th focus on learning style differences and how to achieve maximum goals academically. There are multi age and grade groups of young ladies in combined classes to achieve higher learning towards grade level and beyond.
JANUARY
Registration Open for 6th, 7th, 8th/9th grade
Literature/writing, math, English, and Science dissection lab
What if your home education student could be enriched one, two, or three days a week in literature/writing (Tue/Thur), math (pick your 3 days a week), English (pick your three days a week), or Science dissection labs (Mon)....there is so much opportunity to learn! This is the perfect way to round out your home education. Christian Cottage Prep works closely with parents to find the right mix of curriculum and level that makes your student blossom to their fullest potential.
Second semester begins January 6, 2009
Parents attend for FREE!
Location: 5601 Bridge Street, Suite 335
Fort Worth, TX 76112
Contact: 817-975-6209 or click here to email the director
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17. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RECOURCE CENTER IN ROWLETT
Christian Educators Resource Center is a dedicated homeschool bookstore that offers new and used curriculum, faith-based readers and educational resources. It also has classrooms available for co-operative teaching.
New Classes for Spring (Pre-k through 12th):
Registration Deadline: December 5
Chef’s in the Making
Cooking Fun
Introductory Spanish
Drama I
Health and Nutrition
People Skills 101
“Speak Before You Think”: Beginning Public Speaking
Macaroni & Please
Proud to Be Polite
Babysitter’s Guide to Survival
Handling Money God’s Way
Total Health: Integrating God’s Perspective
Financial Peace University
Encore! High School Speech
The Solar System and Beyond
Thinking Outside the Box
A Trip Through the US
See our Schedule and find Registration Forms on-line under CLASSES
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any in-stock items. You must present your valid HEART of Texas Family I.D. card to qualify for the discount.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
Location: Christian Educators Resource Center
4501 Rowlett Rd., Suite 105
Rowlett, TX 75088
Contact: 972-475-4138
www.cerconline.org
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18. CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ALLIANCE OF TEXAS
FEBRUARY 6 -- Registration Open for Spring Semester
CHAT Enrichment Days Program
Time: 7p.m. - 8p.m.
Location: Cedar Hill, TX (SW Dallas, Duncanville, DeSoto area)
Cost: $3/child (including Nursery) for semester, plus supply fees for individual classes
Details: Enrichment Days is a fun, exciting, and educational learning group that meets six times each semester at a local church. Spring Semester Classes begin February 20, and meet every other Friday over a period of twelve weeks.
Each child (K-12) signs up for three classes. Preschoolers have playtime, snack time, and age appropriate activities or crafts. Nursery is available for children three and under at no additional cost.
Classes vary each semester based on the interests of the individual teachers. You can view a sample class schedule on our website at www.c-h-a-t.org . The classes offered that semester will not necessarily be offered again, but this will acquaint you with the kinds of classes available. The actual spring class schedule will be posted in mid February on the website.
Each parent is expected to teach or assist for two of the three class periods with one free period for fellowship with other moms. If you are interested in teaching a class, please contact us at enrichmentdays@c-h-a-t.org .
You must be a member family in the Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas to participate. Membership is $30 per year. New member families can join mid-year for $15.
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19. COOKE COUNTY COTILLION FOR HOME SCHOOLED TEENS!
Our mission is to provide our homeschooled teens an opportunity to learn etiquette, semi-formal dining etiquette, and ballroom dancing skills in a Christian environment. We meet 8 times per season with our last cotillion of the season a formal and usually at a special location.
Cost: $30 per family per year for registration. Each event is $15 per teen. We emphasize RSVP for each event. Teens are not required to pay for an event if they are unable to attend.
We also allow non-homeschooled teens. Each season we have had a couple of teens who were not homeschooled yet wished to participate in our cotillion. They have all been a blessing to our group.
This past year, our teens came from Denton, Sherman, Denison, Ft. Worth, Mansfield, Burleson, as well as Gainesville and the surrounding small communities.
Contact: Sara D. Bell at mommers@ntin.net or
940-668-7833 or 940-736-6792 (cell)
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20. CLASSES AT CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
Spring 2009 Classes!
We are excited at the expanded array of classes and teachers God has blessed us with.
MONDAY
Intro to Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades K-3
Musical Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Readers Theatre with Rosie Watson – Grades 4-6
Jane Eyre Production with Anicia Brown – Auditions Only
TUESDAY
Junior Musical Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades 4-8
Acting Up with Anicia Brown – Grades 4-7
Intro to Theatre with Anicia Brown – Grades K-3
Around the World in 180 Days with Kathy Abelanet – Grades 3-4
Around the World in 180 Days with Kathy Abelanet – Grades 5-6
Sound of Music Production with Anicia Brown – Auditions Only
WEDNESDAY
Super-Math 3 with Amie Pollock
Super-Math 5 with Sherri Heinzman
Super-Math 7 with Bianca Anderson
Dramatic Studies (Romeo & Juliet) with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Common Sense Economics with Sherri Heinzman – Grades 9-12
Stage Direction & Management with Anicia Brown – Grades 8-12
Speech with Rosie Watson – Grades 7 & up
THURSDAY
Exploring Art 2 with Christine Palmer – Grades 4-6
Exploring Art 1 with Christine Palmer – Grades 1-3
Science Explosions with Krystal Bare – Grades 4-6
Studio Art II with Christine Palmer – Grades 7-9
Stage Craft with Yolanda Cranford – Ages 13 & up
FRIDAY
Exploring Art 1 with Christine Palmer – Grades 1-3
Beginning Drawing with Christine Palmer – Grades 3-6
Teaching Science through Literature with Kath Abelanet – Grades 1-3
Studio Art with Christine Palmer – Grades 7-9
Super-Math Captains Course with Dr. Miles Jones – Must have completed a semester of Super-Math
Super-Math 9 – SAT Math Prep with Dr. Miles Jones – Pre-requisite Super-Math 8
Ride Share with other parents
The Learning Center is pleased to announce: CAIAeRideShare
A quality education partnership at The CAIA Learning Center
PLUS Ride Sharing with other homeschooling Moms to reduce the expenses.
For More Information: 817-281-2293
http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/CAIAeRideShare.htm
Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
Website: http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/
Discount: Creative Arts In Action is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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21. EASTFIELD COLLEGE
Homeschool Connection
Parent & Student Orientation Meeting Schedule
(One meeting is required each semester before registering for the graded homeschool connection courses.)
For SPRING 2009 Registration
January 10, 2009, at 9-11am, Building C, Room 118
January 17, 2009, at 9 a.m., Building C , Room 118
For Registration or Other Information: Contact Mary Ann Fitzsimmons at 972-860-7017 or Click Here to Email Mary Ann
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22. ENRICHMENT CLASSES, INC, IN LEWISVILLE
We are currently accepting applications for our Winter Semester 2009.
We offer classes from preschool through high school with a nursery available. In addition, we offer monthly activities for families to connect outside of classes.
JANUARY 9, 2009 – Classes Begin
FEBRUARY 13, 2009 – Mid-Semester Break
MARCH 20, 2009 – Classes End
Classes meet on Fridays
8:30am to 12:20 Noon
An optional fourth hour is available for high school students.
For More Information: Lesa Bledsoe at 940-455-7000
www.enrichmentclasses.org
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23. FAITH CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
FCA is a Christian School in McKinney, Texas which offers Academic and Enrichment classes to home school families with children Pre-school aged through High School.
Academic classes through 5th grade: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Classes include Math, English, Science, and Social Studies.
Enrichment classes through 5th grade: Tuesdays and Thursdays
Classes include Spanish, Music, Drama, Bible, P.E., Art, Crafts, and more!)
6th -7th grade Enrichment classes: Mondays
Classes include Stock Market Game, Speech, Music Multi Media, Bible, and Study Skills. Students also have the opportunity to participate in the National InvestWrite Essay Competition.
8th grade Elective and Academics classes: Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Algebra I, English, Earth and Space Science w/LABS (approved 4x4 class by the Tx. SBOE), Government, Music Multi Media, Spanish, Bible, Study Skills, “College Prep Genius” SAT Lab, Stock Market Game, Speech, and *National InvestWrite Essay Competition
High School Elective and Academics classes: Mondays/Tuesdays/Thursdays:
Classes include Algebra I, English, Earth and Space Science w/LABS (approved 4x4 class by the Tx. SBOE), Government, Music Multi Media, Spanish, Bible, Study Skills, “College Prep Genius” SAT Lab, Stock Market Game, Speech, and *National InvestWrite Essay Competition.
*FCA Home School student won the National InvestWrite Essay Competition Fall of 2007! He received a school trophy, class party, a lap top computer and a trip to New York!
Chapel: Preschool through High School
Community Service Opportunity: Habitat for Humanity community service projects offered to students 14 years and older. For information on how to participate in the next project, click here to e-mail Terrie Odonnell
Stanford Achievement Testing:
Spring 2009 Testing Date TBD (call 972-562-5323 ext. 22 for details)
SAT College Prep Genius 2 Day Workshop:
November 24 and 25 from 9:00 am - 2:30pm
FCA will offer a rigorous TWO DAY course by Jean Burk designed to teach students the techniques needed to become successful in taking the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT tests.
This course will equip students with the necessary strategies and tips that can help increase their test scores. Students will also learn how to dispel common practices and misconceptions about the
SAT that can harm their scores. Workshop CLASSES ARE LIMITED!!!!
To reserve a spot, please register online
Fall classes are still taking enrollment.
To see 2008 Fall Home School Class Schedule, visit this link and click on age/grade level
For More Information:
Contact Toni Gore at tgore@fcamckinney.org or 972-562-5323 ext. 22
Location: Faith Christian Academy
115A Industrial Boulevard
McKinney, TX
www.fcamckinney.com
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24. FABULOUS FRIDAYS IN LITTLE ELM
Hands on experiments will be an exciting part of this comprehensive science curriculum taught by Kidz Science, for grades K-5th! Everything from Chemical Reactions to Weather to Solar Photography will be offered during this 12 week course!
FRIDAYS
FEBRUARY 6 - MAY 1
Time: 10 am - 10:45 am - Karate (runs 10 weeks, with Oct. 10 & 24 off)
11 am - Noon - Kidz Science
(choose one or both)
Grades: K-5
Location: Sidekicks Karate Studio
2700 E. Eldorado Parkway, Suite 207
Little Elm, TX 75068
972-294-8100
Cost: $40 Deposit (will apply toward tuition)
Karate: $50/month; no registration fees; $25 for optional uniforms
Kidz Science: $120 total or pay in $40 installments.
Current members have first dibs on spots - only 30 spots total and we filled them ALL this Fall!
To Register: Please email Jennifer by Clicking Here to confirm your interest and get your name at the top of the list.
Once I reply with your confirmation.....THEN MAIL your $40 deposit to:
Jennifer Mcbride
2639 Greyhawk Dr.
Little Elm, TX 75068
For More Information: Jennifer McBride at Jenjas5@yahoo.com
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25. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE ENRICHMENT CLASSES
The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.
2008-2009 Classes Offered:
MONDAY CLASSES
Art
Secondary Drawing with Art
Saxon Algebra II
Saxon Algebra I
Advanced Math
Pre-K & Kindergarten Montessori Class
Experience Texas! Past, Present and Future
World History One-Oh-Fun!
Creative Journaling through Scrapbooking (High School Elective)
TUESDAY CLASSES
Robotics
Basic Latin
Art
Art (High School Elective)
Fantastic French
U.S. History 20th Century
Our American Heritage - US History
Elementary Spanish
Exploring Creation with Zoology I: Flying Creatures
Exploring Creation with Zoology III: Land Animals
Exploring Creation with General Science (with labs)
Apologia Botany & Zoology II (with Labs)
WEDNESDAY CLASSES
Exploring Creation with General Science (with labs)
World History
Biology with Labs
Chemistry with Labs
Speech (1 semester) - High School Elective
World Views Year 1 (3 High School Credits)
World Views Year II (8-1/2 High School Credits)
Starting Points (3 High School Credits)
BJU Pre-Algebra
BJU Algebra II
BJU Algebra I
BJU Geometry
THURSDAY CLASSES
Spanish II
Spanish I
Exploring Creation with Astronomy
English III & IV (Junior & Senior)
English Middle School
English I & II (Freshman & Sophomore)
French I
Taste of Shakespeare (one semester)
Keys to Algebra
US Government
US History
Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC) with Labs
Human Anatomy & Physiology with Extensive Labs (Biology II)
Reading Fluency & Comprehension (Special Needs)
For Class Descriptions, Fees and Other Information:
http://homeeducatorsresource.com/news/
Location:
1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320
Website: http://homeeducatorsresource.com/
Discount: Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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26. HOMESCHOOLERS EAST CO-OP CLASSES -- EAST DALLAS
Classes Offered:
Mock Trial I (Grades 1-3)
Mock Trial II (Grades 4-6)
Model United Nations (Grades 9-12)
Youth and Government I (Grades 6-8)
Youth and Government II (Grades 9-12)
Ballroom Dancing (Grades 4-6)
Readers’ Theater I (Grades 1-3)
Readers’ Theater II (Grades 4-6)
Contact For More Information: Click Here to send an email
Location: The Summit Church
4101 East Park Blvd.
Plano, TX 75074
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27. HOMESCHOOL HERITAGE DOMUS SCHOLA
This homeschool group is based out of Heritage Family Church in Keller.
For more information: Click Here to send an email
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28. LEGACY HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT PROGRAM AT FIRST BAPTIST EULESS
Science, History, and Fine Arts Classes
Grade: K-8
Contact: 817-267-3313 ext 267
Email: legacy@discoveryfirst.org
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29. HOMESCHOOL MUSIC THEATER WORKSHOP AT PFAMILY ARTS
PFAMILY ARTS introduces an all new class for home school students!
Workshop students will study Acting, Dance and Vocal curriculum based in classical techniques from Stanislavsky, Meisner, Alexander and all dance styles incorporated on the musical theatre stage such as Fosse, Tap, Ballet, Jazz and Modern. The Workshop is meant to be a fun, yet highly educational performing arts class for the serious student and beginner. The Workshop will present a session ending presentation at the end of the Fall Session and a full scale musical in the Spring Session. Spring Musical will be decided based on class enrollment. Seeking home schooled musicians for pit orchestra and crew (stage manager, running crew, costume design, set design, etc.) for Spring production.
The goal of the Home School Music Theatre Workshop is to provide the home school student their own theatre program of classes and performance opportunities. PFAMILY ARTS Academy is the only performing arts school in the greater Dallas-Ft. Worth area that is staffed by Broadway veterans, local professional actors and university faculty members, providing student’s unparalleled instruction. PFAMILY ARTS is a 501(c)(3) not for profit arts association.
Fall Session: September 2-December 13.
Home School Music Theatre Workshop: Tue/Thu 1:00-4:00
Cost: $1,440
Early Enrollment Discount of 10%: July 21-August 16.
Multi-Family Discount of 10%.
For More Information: 972.378.1234 or info@pfamilyarts.org
Location: PFAMILY ARTS
4017 Preston Road, #544
LakeSide Market
Plano, TX 75093
Contact: 972-378-1234
www.pfamilyarts.org
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30. TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE MATH AND SCIENCE HIGH SCHOOL CLASSES
FOR HOME SCHOOLERS
Math Classes Offered Spring 2009:
Please register by December 12
Southeast Campus
Algebra II (MTHX 2001-45022; Syn. 0137870)
T/TH 3-4:30pm (January - May)
Geometry (MTHX 1000-45023; Syn. 0137871)
M/TH 9am-Noon (January - May)
Advanced Math (College Algebra) (MTHX 1011-40654; Syn. 0144956)
MWF 1-3pm (January 12 - March 6)
Northwest Campus
Algebra II (MTHX-2001-31287; Syn. 0138181)
Mon 8am-10am (January - May)
Geometry (MTHX 1001-31285; Syn. 0138182)
Mon 10am-Noon (January - May)
FREE math assessment tests offered upon request.
Cost equates to $3.50 an hour, $166 for entire semester including book.
For More Information about the Math Classes: Call Maurine Amend at 972-660-8414 or Click Here to email her.
Science Classes Offered Spring 2009:
Northeast Campus (Dept of Continuing Education):
High School Biology Laboratory (BIOX 1430)
M/W 12:10-2:00 p.m. (January 26 - April 22)
Must be at least 14 years of age to take this class.
To sign up online: www.tccd.edu
For More Information about the Biology Class: Call Katherine Hoffman at 817-515-6946 or Click Here to email her.
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31. VENTURE HOME SCHOOL CLASSES
Registration Open for Fall 2008 Classes
High School Classes Offered:
Biology/Lab
American Government/Economics
Effective Writing for a Purpose
Algebra 1, 2, and Geometry
Spanish 1B
Apologetics/Hermeneutics/Book of Ephesians
World Geography/World History
Health/Physical Education
For More Information: Contact 817-788-5248 or Click Here to send an email
or fbccolleyville.com (navigate to Children's/Sonshine)
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32. YMCA OF IRVING HOME SCHOOL CLASSES
SPRING REGISTRATION OPENS DECEMBER 1
SPRING 2009 CLASSES:
Mondays from 9:30 - 10:25 a.m.
Advanced Lego (ages 12-14); $75 class fee; $10 supply fee
Kid's Math (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Monday/Thursday from 9:30 - 10:25 a.m.
Beginner Spanish (age 9-11); $120 class fee; $20 material fee
Mondays from 10:30 - 11:25 a.m.
Math Explorer (ages 12-14); $75 class Fee; $10 material fee
Beginner Lego (ages 9-11), $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Magic of Science (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; $10 material fee
Mondays from 11:30 - 12:25p.m.
Basketball (ages 6-11); $60 class fee; no material fee
Mondays/Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 12:25p.m.
Spanish II (ages 12-14); $120 class fee; $75 book fee
Fridays from 10:30am - 11:25a.m.
Fun with Art (Crafts) (ages 5-8); $75 class fee; no material fee
Focus on the Arts (Artists) (ages 9-11); $75 class fee; $20 material fee
Dissection (ages 12-14); $75 class fee; $20 material fee
Friday from 11:30a.m. - 12:25p.m.
Basketball (ages 6-11); $60 class fee; no material fee
For More Information or to Register: Contact 972-986-8898
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33. LIBRARY USED BOOK SALES IN NORTH TEXAS
Looking for inexpensive literature books and other resources to add to your home school library? Library used book sales are excellent opportunities to purchase books at bargain prices. Here are a few sales that we know about in the North Texas area.
DALLAS – March 7
Time: 8:30am - 4pm
Location: University Park Public Library
6517 Hillcrest (inside Chase Bank Building)
For More Information: 214-363-9095
Books: 5,000 books; 90% donated; 55% hardcover; .50 - $2
No checks over $100 accepted.
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WHITE SETTLEMENT – March 7
Time: 9am - 1pm
Location: White Settlement Public Library
525 S. Kansas Ave
817-367-0166
For More Information: wsplib@wstx.us
Books: 4,000+ books; 95% donated; not picked over; .10 - $1;
Paperbacks and A/V only; no hardcovers
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HURST – March 19-20
Time: Fri: 5-7 p.m.; Sat: 9am - 6pm
Location: Hurst Public Library
901 Precinct Line Road
817-788-7300
Books: 10,000+ books; 70% donated; 60% hardcover; not picked over; $1
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ARLINGTON – March 26-29 (spring sale)
Time: March 26: 3pm - 8pm
March 27 & 28: 9am - 5pm
March 29: 11am - 4:30pm
Location: Meadowbrook Recreation Center
1400 E. Dugan St.
(Meadowbrook Park)
817-274-8831
Contact for More Info: fapl@sbcglobal.net
Books: Over 50,000 items
Most hardbacks and trade paperbacks are $1; mass market fiction paperbacks are $10/flat
Cash or checks only
Sunday - Half Price Day
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DENTON – March 27-28
Time: Fri: 9am-9pm; Sat: 9am-1pm
Admission: $5/ind; $10 family
Benefiting: Denton Public School Foundation & Denton ISD Council of PTAs
Location: Denton Civic Center
321 E McKinney
940-369-0078
Books: 25,000 books; 100% donated; .50 paperbacks; $2 hardcovers; $1 DVDs; bag of books $10
Sale contains weeded books from school district & donated books from families.
Credit/debit card accepted for sales over $15
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34. CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER
CERC, located in Rowlett, is a home school book store offering classes, testing, and other home school resources.
It is located at:
3810 Industrial, Suite 300
Rowlett, TX 75088
972-475-4138
Website: http://cerconline.org/
Discount: CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any materials that are in stock,
with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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35. CREATIVE ARTS IN ACTION
Creative Arts in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.
Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)
Website: http://www.creativeartsinaction.com/
Discount: Creative Arts In Action is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
For List of Classes:
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36. HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE
The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.
Visit them at their NEW Location:
401 E. Church St
Lewisville, TX 75057
972-956-8320
Website: http://homeeducatorsresource.com/
Discount: Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: www.heartoftex.org/membership/membership.html
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37. DAY CAMPS AT CAMP TONKAWA
Camp Tonkawa is an Outdoor Learning Center, where we like to teach nature through hands on experiences. Located outside of Collinsville, TX, on a 35 acre tract of land , that is certified as a wildlife refuge.
March 2009
11th - Nature Awareness Day Camp
12th - Nature Awareness Day Camp
15-17th - Western Days Spring Break Camp
19th - Trot Horsemanship Day Camp
20-22 - Primitive Survival Skills Class 1 & 2
28 - Horsemanship Day Camp
29th - Primitive Survival Skills Day Camp - Winter
HORSE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
Horsemanship Day Camps
Many extra camps have been book through out this autumn, week ends and week days! If you are not with a group, and wanted to join any one of the many scheduled days, we have a few opening in each - perfect for homeschoolers, just call for available dates.
Horse Lease Program
To help cover the cost of our horses upkeep, we have a horse lease program. Adults and children with some experience can pay for a monthly usage of one of our horses and then enjoy partial ownership - grooming, riding, feeding, training. Detailed information is on the web site.
Donations
Barn Repair - TIME : Helpers who know how to use a hammer / MONEY : to pay for supplies
Feed - Soon we will need to be graining the horses, come on out with a bag of feed to help and then ride!
Horse Birthday Parties
Great family or friend event. Bring your own cake and ice cream, we provide the rest
NATURE AWARENESS DAY CAMPS
Homeschoolers and Natural Learners we invite you all out to Camp Tonkawa, for time in Nature once a month at our Nature Awareness Day Camps. Sometimes we get so busy with our curriculums that we don't take the time to learn "in," not just "about" the natural world. Schedule a day each month for a fun learning session with us! Car pool with your friends to beat the gasoline prices! Don't forget to bring your lunches and your Nature Journals (sketch pads or notebooks), so that you can remember the information from the day, and further investagate any topics that inspired you.
MARCH 11 & 12
APRIL 15 & 16
MAY 14 & 15
Time: 9:30am - 2:30pm. You are welcome to stay at the camp until 3pm, for free time to explore and play with new friends.
Costs: $15 per camp, if pre registering by mail, $18 at the camp (walk ins welcome), $10 for 4 year olds. Parents and Under 4 Free.
Save with the Semester Rate: Pay for at least 4 camps in one semester to get a $12/camp rate.
Group Rates Available!
PRIMITIVE SURVIVAL CAMPS
Come on out to Camp Tonkawa this fall, to learn the Tom Brown method of surviving with minimal resources. Prepare yourself for any life situation and build your self esteem by knowing that you can take care of yourself and your loved ones. This is set up as teaching workshops and is NOT an actual survival situations.
PRIMITIVE SURVIVAL DAY CAMPS
Sign up for one or all 5, to learn everything taught in Primitive Survival 1 & 2.
Time: All camps are held from 10am - 3pm
Cost: See website www.camptonkawatexas.com
Pre-registration required.
Minimum and Maximums are enforced, so register early!!
JANUARY: Shelter - When, where and how to construct a Debris Hut. Other shelter types also addressed. We also cover Natures Cautions
FEBRUARY: Fire - How to build a fire. Bow Drill Fire Starting - If the camper is old enough to handle a knife they will need to bring one and will be carving out their own bow drill set. Younger campers will learn the technique on pre-made sets.
MARCH: Water - Where to find water and how to make it safe to drink, prevention of dehydration. Cordage - Making rope from plant materials. Knots - Useful lashings, hitches and knots to use in outdoor activities.
APRIL: April's session will cover Food - Edible plants along with poisonous ones to avoid. Medicinal uses of plants. Primitive Cooking Methods.
MAY: May's session will cover Food - Traps and Snares - How to construct them and where to put them. Basic Tracking - Foot prints plus an array of other animal signs to follow.
ATTN: BOY SCOUT TROOPS!!!
Camp Tonkawa is a Great Place to Earn Merit Badges!
Please consider us in your planning meetings this year! Also, we would greatly appreciate, if you would forward this on to any other troops that you think might be interested in working on their outdoor skills this year.
Hope to see you all soon!
Wilderness Survival Camp
Our level one camp, upon completion, will not only earn you your merit badge but you will learn to make a Bow Drill Fire! All must have a Tote & Chip because you will be working with your knives.
We have two camps scheduled where individual boys can come or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available.
Scheduled dates: Jan 17-18, 2009.
This is our most popular camp for the Boy Scouts!!! The leaders enjoy it too!
Horsemanship Camp
Monthly we have a scheuled Day Camp where individuals or small groups can earn this merit badge. If your whole troop wants to come out and/or do a week-end camp out with our horses, we will be happy to schedule a date for you.
Indian Lore Camp
Come and get started on this extensive merit badge, we get you off to a great start. Scheduled dates Nov 1-2, 2008 and April 4-5, 2009 or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available!
Hiking and Backpacking Camp
Give you the Basics and set you up on a training program to prepare you for a trek of your own.
Scheduled dates May 30-31 or schedule a date for your troop. Group rates available!
Nature Related merit badges:
Fish and Wildlife Management
Fishing
Insect Study
Mammal Study
Reptile and Amphibian Study
Schedule a week-end camp out with us to work on any of the above listed. We can customize the camp for your troop.
Family camps available for the Cub Scouts and Webeloes!
Please help us spead the word to these Packs, so that we can help them earn any outdoor skills needed for rank advancement and belt loops.
For More Information:
Contact April at camptonkawa@bigplanet.com or 903-429-6483
www.camptonkawatexas.com
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38. DALLAS ARBORETUM EVENTS
No matter the time of year, the Arboretum is always in bloom. Both spring and fall feature wild bursts of color. Summer does nothing to diminish the bloom of the Arboretum plantings, which thrive on the warmth of Dallas' summer months. And, because of Dallas' temperate winter temperature, the arboretum is even in blooming the middle of winter. Regardless when you come, there will be plenty to see and plenty of flowers to enjoy.
Hours: Open Daily 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Admission:
$8 for adults
$7 for seniors (65+)
$5 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children ages 2 and under.
Senior Citizen Thursday Discount: Seniors get in for just $5 with photo ID and can receive 20% discount at gift shop.
Onsite parking:
$5 per vehicle
Valet Parking: $10 for non-members; $8 for members
Offsite parking is available at selected locations during peak visitation. Shuttle busses transport guests directly to the Arboretum ticket booth.
Discount tickets are available for groups of 20 or more.
Advance registration is needed.
For Group Sales Information: Click Here
Located:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX 75219
214-515-6500
www.dallasarboretum.org
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39. FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS
MARCH 7 - Reptiles Emerging
Time: 1 & 2 p.m.
Admission: Free with paid admission
During the winter months, reptiles are out of sight, out of mind. We do not come across
reptiles in the winter time at all. Now as spring draws near, we will start to see some reptiles come out as the temperatures warm up. Join us as we discuss reptiles’ winter behavior and meet some reptiles coming to a rock, log, or pond near you.
MARCH 22 - Bees
Time: 1-3p.m.
Admission: Free with paid admission
There is something in the air. Nature is awakening to another spring. New tree leaves, baby animals, and an excited bee hive. Nectar, pollen, and longer days have awakened our bee hives. Learn about the changes that are taking place within the thousands of cells found in a honey comb.
Location: 9601 Fossil Ridge Road
Fort Worth, TX 76135
For More Information about these or other events: 817-237-1111
http://www.fwnaturecenter.org
The Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge (FWNC&R) is located just inside the city limits of Fort Worth, TX.
The FWNC&R is a hidden jewel, a wilderness comprised of forests, prairies, and wetlands reminiscent of how much of the Fort Worth/Dallas metroplex once looked. Replete with native flora and fauna, the area beckons to those searching for a piece of nature to refresh their spirits and reintroduce a measure of tranquility to their increasingly urban lifestyles.
Over 3600 acres, the FWNC&R is the largest city-owned nature center in the United States and offers residents and visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the natural history of north central Texas. Over 20 miles of hiking trails provide easy access to a myriad of natural wonders to be found on the Refuge.
Staff naturalists at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center are available to facilitate your exploration.
The FWNC&R is located on the northwest side of Fort Worth, four miles west of I-820 on Jacksboro Hwy. (TX Hwy 199).
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40. FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS
March Events:
MARCH 9 -- Conservation in Action Day
Time: 9a.m. - 2:30p.m.
Cost: $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Details: Homeschool: Conservation in Action Day
Learn about different ways YOU can conserve natural resources; participate in an on-site conservation project, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim.
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
MARCH 23 -- Home School Fossil Dig & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Cost: $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Details: In the morning, take a bus down to our Fossil Pit and dig for marine fossils! Share a picnic lunch at the Overlook, then take a guided tour of Fossil Rim's current, non-marine residents!!!
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
April Events:
APRIL 6 -- Go Ahead Make My Day Class & Tour
Time: 10:00-2:30ish.
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Cost: $16/person (ages 2 and under free)
Details: This class is about animal enrichment, an important aspect of zoo keeping: how to keep captive animals from becoming bored.) The class is multi-level; all ages will benefit.
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
APRIL 27 -- Nature Journaling
Time: 10:00-4ish.
Nature Journaling Class: 10-Noon
Break for Lunch: 12:00-1:00
Art Class: 1-2:30ish
Guided Tour of Fossil Rim: 1:00-2:30ish
Cost: $20/person (ages 2 and under free)
Details: During the nature journal class, learn 4 different nature journaling techniques. After lunch we will take a bus to 2-3 different sites within Fossil Rim and spend time drawing at each of these locations.
To Register: Call 254-898-4216
For more Details: www.fossilrim.com/visiting/home_school.html
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41. HAVEN'S HORSES HORSEMANSHIP & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASSES AT CHRIST'S HAVEN
Christ's Haven is offering homeschoolers Christian Horsemanship and Outdoor Education programs at their facility in Keller, Texas. The classes will be held during the day, while their foster children are at school.
Monday - Fridays at 9am, 10:30am, 12:30pm, 2pm
September 1 through December 13
Thursdays at 10:30am and 4pm; Mondays at 4pm
Christian Horsemanship
Ages 4-18
Cost: $25/child
Class Length: 1 hour, 15 min.
Details: First visit is free! Spiritual Values are incorporated into each Horsemanship Lesson through group devotions and activities. It's more than a basic riding lesson! Christian Horsemanship unites children and inspires them to grow in the areas of Horsemanship Skills (grooming, saddling, feeding, groundwork, riding and horse anatomy); Spiritual and Personal Growth, and Communication Skills.
Outdoor Adventure
Ages 7-14
Cost: $20/class
Course Length: 1 hour, 15 min.
Details: First visit is free! Teaches children about God's creation in an outdoor spiritual setting. Activities include: day hikes, fishingm, flying kites, and much more! Outdoor Adventure classes focus on: Science in the Outdoors, Servant Leadership, Self Expression, Self Reflection and Silent Retreats.
Discount Prices available for group rates.
Please call for details.
Location: 4150 Keller-Haslet Road
Keller, TX 76248
For More Information: Kristin Kirkland at 817-925-1982 or email her here
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42. THE HEARD MUSEUM - HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
These Homeschool Classes will introduce your student to the Natural Sciences. Students will experience learning through classroom activities, outdoor field investigations, laboratory science, small group activities and take-home study packets.
Each course curriculum is developed by the Heard Museum's education staff who strive to recognize and meet the needs of home school families.
All curricula are based on current scientific theory.
Thirteen Weeks of Classes (26 hours of classtime)
JANUARY 13 - APRIL 1 (Tuesdays or Thursdays)
Ages: 5-14 (as of September 1, 2008)
Time: 1-3 p.m. on either Tuesdays or Thursdays
Cost: $205 (museum members)
$225 (non-members)
Monthly payment plans are available
10% sibling discounts available
Registration Deadline: January 5, 2009
Classes:
Which Ology is Which? – Earth and Planetary Science
Age: 5 year olds
Description: How does hail form? How many kinds of lava are there? What is special about our oceans? Weather, Oceans, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Moon, Stars and Planets are some of the wonderful topics we will learn about and have fun with. Hands on interactive lessons and outdoor adventure await your little scientist!
Discover Your World: Planet Earth
Ages: 6-7 year olds
Description: What is inside the Earth? How are rocks made? How do clouds form? Why does it get cold in the winter? Can we live on any other planet? These are just some of the questions we will explore as we take a look at how our amazing planet works. Topics include weather and seasons; earthquakes, volcanoes, hurricanes and tsunamis; rocks, minerals and fossils; and the solar system.
Amazing Adaptations
Ages: 8-9 year olds
Description: Adaptations: What are they? What do they look like? Who has them? How can you tell? The answers to these and other interesting questions will be investigated in this animal study during class and on the wildlife sanctuary. Learning and interaction with live animals are part of this course.
Earth Trek III – Living on the Planet
Ages: 10-12 year olds
Description: The culmination of Earth Treks I and II, this class will study where and how animals live on Earth in their respective ecosystems around the world, including adaptations to habitats, weather and climate and human encroachment as well as effects of global climate change, pollution, and natural disasters.
To register: Download Registration form by clicking here
Download Medical Record form by clicking here
Please note that you will need to submit a medical record form including immunization history to be able to participate in the program.
Complete application includes:
• Registration form
• Medical Record Form
• Payment according to selected payment plan
Only complete application packets will be processed. Birth certificates and medical record forms already on file at the museum may be used. One registration form per participant. Complete applications processed on a first-come, first-served basis. If you are paying by check and fax your reservation it won't be complete until the check is received.
For more information:Click Here to send an email
972-562-5566 x237
Location: One Nature Place
McKinney, TX 75069
www.heardmuseum.org
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43. HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
March Programs:
MARCH 13 - Nature
(For Children Ages 2-5)
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $6/child
Details: Children will be introduced to the simple concepts of nature and the lives of bugs.
MARCH 20 – Wake Up It's Spring!
For Children Ages 2-5
Time: 10:30 a.m.
Cost: $6/child
Details: Children will be introduced to life on a farm in the springtime.
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday - Sunday 9:00am - 4:30pm
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
For Children Ages 2-5
Time: 10:30
Cost: $6/child/program & $3/adult
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
April 10, 10:30 am (Ages 2-5): Windmills, Wind and Kites
Children will experience how wind is useful to farm families one hundred years ago and how it is used for work and play today.
April 17, 10:30 a.m. (Ages 2-5): Preschool: Teddy Bear Picnic
Children will be introduced to the history of teddy bears and join their beloved toys in a picnic.
May 8, 10:30 am (Ages 2-5): Farmer Duck
Children will be introduced to farm chores based on a children’s book of the same name.
May 15, 10:30 am (Ages 2-5): Tweet, Tweet, Chirp, Chirp
Children will be introduced to the lives and habits of birds.
FRIDAYS AT THE FARMSTEAD (Programs last 90 minutes)
For Children Ages 6-12
Time: 1:30 p.m.
Cost: $8/child/program
To Register: Call 972-881-0140
NOTE: Prepayment and registration are required. Registrations are welcome until Wed noon for the Friday program that same week. All fees are non-refundable.
April 3, 10:30 am (Ages 6-12): Elegance: Music and Art in Victorian Farm life 1880-1920
Children will experience Victorian songs, art and crafts.
May 22, 10:30 am (Ages 6-12): Chores on the Farm
Children will experience the work expected of children their own age on a 19th century farm
Docent-Led Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 1:30 p.m. (one tour daily)
Tour begins on the front porch. Includes Farrell-Wilson house, outbuildings, and grounds.
Admission: $5 Adults; $3.50 Children 5 & up, Students, and Seniors (65+);
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free
Docent will collect admission fees before the tour begins.
Self-Guided Grounds Tours - Tuesday through Sunday
Time: 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Tour the grounds only. No access to the Farrell-Wilson house our outbuildings.
Grounds guide available.
Admission: $2 per person
Children 4 and under are free; Museum members free.
Group Tours:
Time: Each program lasts about 1 1/2 hours
Available by appointment only.
Cost: $5/child; $3/adult chaperones
Depending on the size of the group, up to two teachers can attend free of charge
Tour Themes:
Farmer Duck -- This pre-school program is designed for children ages 3-6 and follows the story Farmer Duck written by Martin Waddell (about a lazy farmer who doesn’t work and a duck that does all the chores around the farm), a discussion and hands-on experiences at 3 – 10 different stations, depending on the program/needs of group. Costumed Docent(s) lead children in groups of 10 through each hands-on activity.
On the Wagon Trail -- Designed for elementary school- age participants, this program focuses on the thoughts and activities of a 10 year-old boy as he leaves his home in Illinois to move with his family to Plano at the turn-of-the-century. Activities include packing a wagon, riding the wagon to different spots on the property and rein-acting the diary entries. Two costumed Docents lead children along this trip. Each program is volunteer-led and lasts about 1 ½ hour long. Best with a small group, 8-10 children.
Tag-Along Tom -- This costumed volunteer-led program introduces the children to the fictional character of Tom Sawyer while experienced chores around the farm. Designed for children ages 6-12, activities include white-washing the side of the Pole Barn, gathering water from the creek for the Children’s Garden, and playing turn-of-the-century games.
What's Inside a Barn -- Features the elements of a barn; how they are built, their daily use, and seasonal activities farm families celebrated inside a barn. A craft is included. Designed for children 3-6.
Traditional Children's Tour -- Offers children an inside look at the Farrell-Wilson house and out-buildings; its theme, life at the turn-of-the-century, and participants experience three early 19th century chores. Leaders are dressed in period costume. Designed for children ages 6-16.
Living on the Prairie -- This program is designed to give children a variety of hand-on experiences revolving around the four fictional characters in Patricia MacLachlan’s book, Sarah, Plain and Tall. Children will visit the one-room schoolhouse, create an original watercolor, compare and contrast prairie and coastal landscapes and practice critical thinking skills. Program is led by costumed Docents and s designed for children ages 8-12
For More Information: Call 972-881-0140
FIRST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH -- Scout Tours
REQUIRE ADVANCE RESERVATIONS -- Call the Farmstead office to reserve a date.
Tours are booked on a first come first served basis
Cost: Pricing has been revised. Contact the Farmstead office for more information.
(No siblings under 4 years old)
Tours must be PREPAID.
Scouts will receive a patch from the Farmstead.
VOLUNTEER GARDEN HELPER AND TOUR DOCENTS NEEDED:
The Heritage Farmstead Museum is looking for a volunteer garden helper and tour docents.
Please contact Angie Carroll, Volunteer Coordinator, for further information. 972-881-0140.
For Registration and Other Information: 972-881-0140 http://heritagefarmstead.org/events.htm
Location: Heritage Farmstead Museum
1900 West 15th Street
Plano, TX
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44. SHARKAROSA WILDLIFE RANCH
Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch sits on 126 breathtaking acres near Lake Ray Roberts in Denton County, Texas. Our mission is to provide the North Texas community with the opportunity to experience rare and endangered exotic wildlife in a unique and personal setting. What better way to learn about conservation than by seeing it up close and hands on?
Open to the Public Days are every Saturday March through November. All other events require an advanced reservation. We offer educational park offers field trips, private tours, open to the public Saturdays and rental for events large and small! Group camping, bucket train rides & dining area help make Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch your next wild adventure!
Open to the Public Days (MARCH - NOVEMBER)
SATURDAYS
Time: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. (last tour begins at 4:30)
Admission: $8 per person; kids 2 and under are free
INCLUDES: - Meet & Greet with our Education Animals (kangaroos, monkeys, lemurs & more) *Animals available for meet and greet vary with the season and off-site events schedule*
- Safari Wagon ride through exotic pastures to see camels, zebra, buffalo & more
- Kids Bucket Train rides thru 22 acres of “wild” trails!
- Use of pavilion for lunch (you may purchase lunch at our concession stand or bring your own)
Directions:
http://www.sharkarosa.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=26&Itemid=50
Please do not use MapQuest it WILL get you lost!
Please visit the Field Trip page under the "Visitors Guide" section of our web site for details on booking a field trip for your home school group.
For More Information:
www.sharkarosa.com
940-686-4600 (main)
940-686-3715 (fax)
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45. TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS
Texas Discovery Gardens is a year-round urban oasis located at historic Fair Park. The gardens showcase beautiful native and adapted plants that are grown using sustainable methods that help to protect the environment. The first certified organic public garden in the state, Texas Discovery Gardens offers educational programs and exhibits that teach children and adults how to provide vital habitat for butterflies and other native Texas wildlife, add beauty, conserve water and restore the natural environment in urban areas.
The Modern Victory Gardens: a Community Garden Educational Series Topics
MARCH 14: Preparation for planting, when and what to plant, planting techniques, feeding and fertilizing, companion planting, integrated pest control.
MAY 30: Harvesting, mulching, summer maintenance and tips. Plants available for sale in the Greenhouse.
Time: 9 am to noon
Cost: $25 per class; $20 for members
Details: Tired of $3 bell peppers at the grocery store and the $4 gas that gets you there? Join a growing trend and learn how to create a bountiful community or backyard garden. Texas Discovery Gardens presents its inaugural Community Garden educational series Nov. 15, 2008. We start with discussions on composting and Fall bed prep. Join our panel of three garden gurus to learn how to cultivate your community garden and talk with other garden enthusiasts in the Dallas area.
Meet the panel:
*Randy Johnson, horticulturist for Texas Discovery Gardens, enjoys trying different vegetable crops in the Gardens. His specialties are native plants of Texas and organic gardening.
* Neli Spurrell, Children's Education Coordinator for Texas Discovery Gardens and certified Master Composter, has a background in forestry and spends her free time gardening, composting and rainwater harvesting at her home in Rockwall.
* A.L. Nickerson is a local supporter of community gardens and started the first community garden in Lake Highlands in April 2008.
Regular Admission & Hours:
$3/adults; $2 seniors (60+); $1.50 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.
Hours: Monday-Saturday 10am-5pm. Last ticket sold at 4:30 pm.
For more info: 214.428.7476 ext. 23.
Location: 3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Fair Park.
Fair Park istwo miles east of downtown Dallas just south of Interstate 30.
THIRD SATURDAYS – Garden Walks
Garden Walks are a guided tour on various topics. Unless noted, Garden Walks are on the third Saturday of the month and last one hour.
Time: 10am - 11am
Cost: Free with garden admission.
Pre-Registration is required.
CHILDREN'S OUTDOOR EDUCATION PROGRAMS
Cost: $5/person; $60 minimum fee per program
Availability: Tuesday - Friday, 9am-4pm
To Make Reservations: 214-428-7476
Gardening for Children - introduction to gardening and seeds. Students even plant thier own seeds to take back to the classroom. (Grades Pre-K - 2)
Butterflies, Bugs & Botany - Insects and their amazing lives help students inderstand the concepts of adaptation, habitats, and pollination. (Grades 1-8)
Terrarium Worlds - Your class will build a terrarium (a home for a plant) and see the water cycle, the carbon-oxygen cycle, and the nitrogen cycle in action. (Grades 1-8)
Life in the Compost Bin - Recycling and decomposition come alive as students see that an ecosystem is powered by a complex web of creatures and energy. (Grades 1-8)
Math in Nature - Math is seen as a real world tool as students visit diverse garden habitats to record data, such as temperatures, time, and mesurements. (Grades 2-8)
Careers in the Garden - Explore the various careers that are necessasry to keep the garden beautiful and running, including landscape design and greenhouse management. (Grades 2-8)
SCOUTING PROGRAMS:
Girl Scouts: We offer 'Try-Its' and 'Let's Get Outdoors' badge programs for younger Girl Scouts.
For more information on these programs: http://www.texasdiscoverygardens.org/girl_scouts.htm
Boy Scouts: We have a number of 'Achievements' and 'Arrow-point' badge programs for younger Scouts. Wealso work with Scout Leaders to put together Webelos and Eagle Scout projects, and have a number ofCommunity Service opportunities for older Scouts. For more information please click here.
Community Service Projects: Opportunities for older scouts are available on special projects and community events such as Day at Fair Park. Training is provided by the staff of Texas Discovery Gardens.
For Scouting Program Info: 214-428-7476 x 27
For More Information: www.texasdiscoverygardens.org
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46. TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES
ATHENS, TX
DECEMBER - MARCH — Rainbow Trout Harvest
Location: Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
Time: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Cost: Catch & release fishing FREE with admission to the Center; or $5 to harvest up to 5 trout
Details: Fish for rainbow trout in the center's ponds and streams. Admission fees apply; catch-and-release fishing is free, or pay $5 for the opportunity to harvest up to five trout. Tackle and bait furnished, or bring your own. No treble hooks allowed, and EVERYONE who fishes must check in at the Anglers Pavilion for equipment inspection and orientation before beginning to fish. Harvest fee must be paid in advance. Bring your own ice chest and ice for harvested fish. No fishing license is required. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
For More Information: 903-676-BASS.