HEART of Texas

Homeschool with HEART!
March 2014 HEART OF TEXAS   
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.

MARCH 2014 ISSUE
Home School News and Events
 
Dear Home School Families and Friends,
We are excited to share information that we feel may be of interest to home schoolers in North Texas.  Please feel free to pass along this newsletter to your friends or other homeschooling families in your network.

If you use content from this newsletter for placement within your own newsletter, website, or other communications, please acknowledge the HEART of Texas newsletter as your source via a link to our website: www.heartoftex.org.

If you know of an event or activity that would benefit other home schoolers, please drop us a line at editor@heartoftex.org so we can share it in our next bi-weekly e-newsletter. Advertising space is available for those wishing to advertise their businesses, classes, job listings, or other opportunities.

Additionally, if you or anyone in your homeschool group would like to submit articles, or have suggestions for future article topics, please contact us at editor@heartoftex.org.

We would love to hear from you!  


www.HEARTofTex.org
You can also "Like" HEART of Texas on Facebook!


Our deadlines are as follows:  
the 1st of the month, for the mid-month issue;
the 15th of the month for the issue that goes out at the beginning of the following month.
Please send all submissions to editor@heartoftex.org for consideration in the newsletter.

Thanks so much!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow us on Facebook
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS

MARCH 5
NATURE AWARENESS DAY CAMP
CAMP TONKAWA


Time:
9:30am-2:30pm
Cost: $54 ($18/camp)

Description:  Come for a Fun Day of Outdoor Learning about the plants and animals in your own backyard in the North Texas area. Become comfortable and knowledgeable in your own environment. We need at least 12 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early to reserve your places.

For more details: click here

To View Other Events at Camp Tonkawa:  Click Here

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARCH 7
REGISTRATION DEADLINE
HOMESCHOOL DAY AT THE DALLAS ZOO

Event: April 7
Time: 9am-3pm
Cost:
Adult $11; $5 each extra adult; Ages 3+: $5 each; Children under 2 are free
Details: 
Homeschoolers and their families are invited to spend the day at the Dallas Zoo!  Fun, interactive and educational activities are available for K – 8th grade! Enjoy a special day filled with great opportunities to enrich your curriculum and entertain the kids! 

To Register:  Click Here

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

 ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARCH 15
REGISTRATION DEADLINE FOR JOY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY COTILLION

A MIDNIGHT'S SUMMER DREAM

Event: March 22
Time: 6:00pm-12
Location:  Decatur Civic Center, 2010 West US 380
Cost: $43
per person (includes dinner)
Details: 
For students 13 and older; Featuring Comedian Kristin Weber, and Ballroom Dance Lessons
If you would like to dress up according to the theme, it is welcome, as long as your outfit follows the modesty guidelines.

To Register:  Click Here

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARCH 18
TEXAS AND HER WILDLIFE
HOME SCHOOL CLASS AT FOSSIL RIM

Time:  10am-4pm
Cost:  $23/participant
Details:
(Class + Tour) We will do a sweeping survey of the habitats and wildlife from the Red River to the Rio Grande, from Big Bend to Caddo Lake! We will look at interactions between species, what is causing species to become endangered and what we can do about it.
To Register, Call: 254-897-2960


View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARCH 20
HOMESCHOOL DODGEBALL TOURNAMENT

Time: 11am-2:30pm
Cost: $5 per player

Where: The Lee Park Recreation Center in Irving
            3000 Pamela Drive.
Description: 
For grades 1-12; Lunch will be provided for players; (parents can join for lunch for $2.50)


RSVP At:
972.721.2508
(All parents will need to sign a waiver for their child(ren) to play)


View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

MARCH 21
HOMESCHOOL SCAVENGER HUNT

Time: 10:30am-12:30pm
Cost: $5 per child

Where: The Northwest Park Recreation Center in Irving
            2800 Cheyenne St.
            972-721-2529
Description: 
For grades 1-12; Includes: Scavenger Hunt
, Lunch, and take home goodie bag.

Register By March 13



View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


MARCH 22
BANCROFT FAMILY CONCERT SERIES 
FREE PERFORMANCE: All Brahms All the Time


Time:
3pm  (Auditorium Doors open at 2:30pm)
Location:  Horchow Auditorium at the Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas, 75201
Cost: FREE
(Admission to the museum and concert is free)
No reservations or tickets required.
Details: 
Dallas Symphony Orchestra’s Associate Principal Cellist Yuri Anshelevich, pianist Steven Harlos and Dallas Symphony’s clarinetist Paul Garner present an afternoon of majestic chamber music by Johannes Brahms, one of the most expressive composers of the Romantic period.

For More Information:  Click Here

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

APRIL 17
2014 HOME EDUCATION DAY

MARINERS VS. RANGERS

Time:
1:05 PM
Location:  Rangers Ballpark in Arlington
Cost: $6-$46

Details: 
Join homeschool families from around the metroplex for our annual Home Educators Day. The Dallas Zoo will be doing a special pre-game presentation before the game. Outside food and beverage is allowed. Glass, aluminum cans, or hard-sided coolers are not permitted.

To Register:  Click Here

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------


A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
CAROLE JOY SEID RETURNS

CAROLE JOY SEID RETURNS to do her seminar A Literature Based Approach to Education on March 22nd at Gospel for Asia, Carrollton, TX. 

News Flash:  2 additional pages to her How to Make Your Child a Lover of Books List!!!  Now there will be 10 pages in all. 

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned veteran, Carole’s seminar will bring a new perspective to your homeschooling journey.     
You won't want to miss this day that will change your children's lives. 
Learn how to make your children lovers of books while you win their hearts for Christ.  
 Besides teaching and encouragement, Carole will present her amazing booklists that guide even the most discouraged parents clearly and concisely.  Also, a selection of classical literature will be available for purchase.
 
Cost:  $45 advance registration (by March 11th) at www.carolejoyseid.com.  And husbands of wives attending come for free!! 

For more info" (972) 497 2870 or otts@reagan.com

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
TACA FOOTBALL RETURNS AFTER A 9-0 SEASON!
ANNOUNCING ELEVEN MAN FOOTBALL FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL & JV TEAMS FOR 2014

If you have a son in grades 7-11 who is thinking about playing football, we have an opportunity for you!
Here is a "No-catch" offer that you might not see again:  Spring football for $50.00!
Give Football a try for the first time or join a successful program.
The Spring fee of $50.00 will be applied to the Fall registration of $100.00.
There's no equipment to buy or high-priced registration fees, just FOOTBALL!

TACA ANNOUNCES:  Eleven Man Middle School & JV Football team for the 2014 Season!
We're a Christ Centered group organized to use athletics as an opportunity to spread the Gospel of Jesus.
• We’re coached by a group of believers such as: former Pro Jason Wallace, Greig Altieri,
Curtis Tucker, and Jim Rooney.
• We're competitive, but if you have the desire to learn the game, we will Coach you from where you're at today!

Practices: Magnet School Field 450 Abrams Road Richardson, TX 75081.
Spring Camp Begins: Monday- Friday 3/31/14—4/25/14
To Register:  Visit http://www.tacainfo.com/ for registration forms, equipment, physical forms, etc.

Games: We have a nine game schedule in place. We should be finished by Halloween.
Equipment:  Spring camp requires only sweats, cleats, and a mouthpiece.
All equipment is leased out at "Zero-net-cost". Just a deposit check is required.
Parents need to provide only a cup, cleats and a mouthpiece.
See website for details and stop by 2129 North Josey Lane Carrollton, TX to pick up and be fitted for the equipment needed.
Cost: Our registration is sponsored, so the registration cost to a parent is only $100.00. Athletes will be required to participate in a fund raiser.
Questions: Please contact Turk Akturk (Director of Athletic Development) 214-675-8740.

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
JOB OPPORTUNITIES AT CHICK-FIL-A, COPPERAS COVE

Details: At Chick-fil-A, the team member role is more than just a job, it's an opportunity. In addition to working directly for an independent Operator, team members gain life experience that goes far beyond just serving a great product in a friendly environment. Chick-fil-A is a great opportunity for people of all ages and backgrounds, and no experience is necessary. Please consider visiting your local Chick-fil-A restaurant if you'd like to learn more about the team member experience.
 
Flexible Hours  You probably have commitments to your family, friends, school or sports teams. We will try to arrange your work schedule around them.
 
Closed Sunday’s All Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed on Sundays so you can have a day off to spend with family and friends.
 
Work Directly With A Chick-fil-A Operator The Operator is an independent business person, responsible for the operation of the restaurant, who invests time in his or her employees, teaching them important business skills for the future.
 
Competitive Pay  Along with a competitive paycheck, you will work in a nurturing environment where you will learn valuable business and people skills.
 
It's a Great Place to Work  At Chick-fil-A, our Operators consider their team members to be more than just employees, they are a highly valued part of each Chick-fil-A restaurant. Our high retention rate is proof that team members really enjoy working at Chick-fil-A.
 
No Experience Is Necessary We are looking for friendly, enthusiastic people who enjoy serving customers. We will teach you everything else you need to know.
 

202 RG III Blvd. Copperas Cove, TX 76522
Contact: Jobs@cfacopperascove.com

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------


A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
REGISTRATION OPEN
HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM

LANTANA GOLF CLUB

Experience the Game of Golf!  Lantana Golf Club is offering three separate golf programs for juniors, age 8-17. The Spring, Summer and Fall programs will each offer weekly clinics over a period of 8-10 weeks.

Participants will receive instruction on full swing, short game (chip, pitch, putting) and bunker play.  Participants will also receive a basic introduction to the rules & etiquette of golf and the opportunity for quality time on course.

Our objective is to introduce juniors to the game of golf, improve playing skills and provide the opportunity for personal growth and learning.  We hope to build and strengthen character, develop new friendships, and enjoy the experience and life lessons this great game provides. 

Marc Brooks will provide lead instruction with assistance from other local golf professionals as needed.  Mr. Brooks is a PGA member and currently Director of Instruction at Lantana Golf Club.  He was recently named "Best Golf Instructor Denton County 2012" and a member of the PGA President’s Council for his continuing efforts to promote and grow the game of golf.

To Register:  click here to download the registration form.
For more information, contact Marc Brooks, PGA at 940-728-4653 or click here to email

Discount:
 
Marc Brooks is offering HEART of Texas supporting members (with a current HEART of Texas member card) a 10% discount.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
     (Click on the links below)

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE
Mar -- Camp Tonkawa Camps and Activities
Mar -- Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
Mar-- Home School Activity Days at Fort Worth Library Branches
Mar -- Museum Exhibits in Dallas & Fort Worth
Mar-- Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs at Select Parks
Mar -- Homeschool Classes at the Fort Worth Zoo
Mar -- Perot Museum: Parent/Child Classes
Mar --Library Used Book Sales Across North Texas
Mar -- Imax and Omni Movies
Mar -- Registration Open for Speech & Debate Summer Camp
Mar 1 -- (DFW) HEART of Texas 30% Discount: Texas Ballet Theater: Serenade and Gloria (2pm)
Mar 1 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Kids' Fishing Day
Mar 2 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Intro to Kayaking
Mar 3 -- Perot Museum: Weather & Climate
Mar 7 -- Registration Deadline: Homeschool Day at the Dallas Zoo
Mar 7 -- Fun on the Farm at Heritage Farm: Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!
Mar 7 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Gather Around the Campfire
Mar 7 - Apr 10 -- The Scarlet Pimpernel Opens at Artisan Theater in Hurst (Main Stage)
Mar 7 - 30 -- Beauty and the Beast (Dallas Children's Theater)
Mar 8-- Fort Worth Museum of Science and History Star Party
Mar 8 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Bird Walk
Mar 8 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Nature Hike
Mar 8-- Texas Discovery Gardens: Garden Explorers Walk: Greenhouse Tour
Mar 8 - Apr 12 -- Peter Pan Jr. Opens at Artisan Theater in Hurst (Artie's Children's Playhouse)

Mar 10-14 -- Texas Discovery Gardens: Spring Break Safari Week
Mar 13 -- Log Cabin Village: Garden Thyme
Mar 15 -- Registration Deadline: Joy Christian Academy's Cotillion: "A Midnight's Summer Dream"
Mar 15 -- Log Cabin Village: It's All Fun and Games
Mar 15 -- Grapevine:  Nash Farm: Tales at Twilight
Mar 17 -- Perot Museum: Weather & Climate
Mar 18 -- Texas and Her Wildlife at Fossil Rim
Mar 20 -- Homeschool Dodgeball Tournament
Mar 21 -- Homeschool Scavenger Hunt
Mar 21 -- Fun on the Farm at Heritage Farm: Stone Soup
Mar 22 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Night Hike
Mar 22 -- FREE Bancroft Family Concert: All Brahms All the Time
Mar 23 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Intro to Kayaking
Mar 28 - Apr 13 -- How I Became a Pirate Opens at Casa Manana
Mar 28 - Apr 6 -- The Sound of Music! A Musical at the Cottage Theater
Mar 29 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Intro to Kayaking
Mar 29 -- Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Center: Stars on the Prairie
Mar 31 -- Texas Critters and the Story of Red at Fossil Rim
Apr 17 -- Home Education Day at the Rangers Ballpark

Sponsor -- Carole Joy Seid Returns
Sponsor -- TACA Football Eleven Man Middle School & JV Football Team for 2014 Season
Sponsor -- Job Opportunities at Chick-fil-A: Copperas Cove
Sponsor -- Registration Open: Home School Golf Program at Lantana Golf Club

FEATURED ARTICLES

Judge Removes Children Illegally -- Tim Lambert, President of THSC

No Greater Joy Ministries Offering FREE Magazines to Support Groups and Home School Families!

NEST Family Learning Offering Discount 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 editor@heartoftex.org

     Bedford Public Library    
     Fort Worth Public Library
     Hurst Public Library
     Lewisville Public Library
     McKinney Public Library System
     Rockwall County Library
     Tyler Public Library 
        Arlington Public Library (Homeschool Thursdays at the Southeast Branch)

READING REWARD PROGRAMS
2.   Book It!  Reading Program -- Enrollment:  May 1 through 2nd Friday in June each year
3.   Braums Book Buddy Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
      Six Flags Read to Succeed -- Enrollment for 2013-2014
   
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
4.   BEST Robotics
5.   FIRST Lego League: 2014 FLL WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

6.   Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Deadline March 31, 2014 (yearly contest)
7.   National Engineers Week
8.   USA Mathematical Talent Search 
9.   Igniting Creative Energy Challenge for K-12 -
10. Texas Beef Leaders of Tomorrow Contest --
    
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
11.  City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
12.  City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
13.  Hurst-Euless-Bedford Teen Court -- Hurst-Euless-Bedford

CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
14.  Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
15.  National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30

HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your Enrichment Program or Homeschool Classes

16.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
17.  Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
18.  Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas -- Cedar Hill/SW Dallas area

19.  E.A. Young Academy -- North Richland Hills
20.  Eastfield College -- Mesquite
21.  Enrichment Classes, Inc. -- Grapevine

22.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
23.  Homeschoolers East Co-Op Classes -- East Dallas
24.  JOY Christian Academy
-- Decatur
25.  Matthew Road Academy -- Grand Prairie
26.  Morning Glory Academy -- Hurst
27.  Tarrant County College -- High School Math Classes
28.  
THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
29.  Quo Vadis Educators -- Garland
30.  Vine Academy -- McKinney

BOOK SALES & OUR PARTNERING HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
31.  Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
            CARROLLTON -- Mar 2
            WICHITA FALLS --  Mar 1; Apr 1; May 1
            JACKSONVILLE --   Mar 13-16
            ARLINGTON -- Mar 19-23
            CORPUS CHRISTI -- Mar 19-24

            DENTON -- Mar 27-30
            BEDFORD -- Mar 28-30

32.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
33.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
 
NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS, & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your program
34.  Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
35.  Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
36.  Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
37.  Fort Worth Botanic Gardens -- Fort Worth
38.  Fort Worth Zoo Homeschool Classes -- Fort Worth
39.  Fossil Rim
40.  Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
41.  Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
42.  Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
43.  Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
43.  
Nash Farm -- Grapevine
44.  Ride with Pride -- Southlake
45.  Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
46.  Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
47.  Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas
        Purtis Creek State Park -- Athens

       
Cedar Hill State Park -- Cedar Hill
        Ray Roberts Lake State Park -- Denton
        Eisenhower State Park -- Denison
        Dinosaur Valley State Park -- Glen Rose
        Fort Richardson SP and HS/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway -- Jacksboro
        Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway -- Mineral Wells
        Tyler State Park -- Tyler
        Lake Tawakoni State Park -- Wills Point 


PERFORMING ARTS
48.  Artisan Center Theater Performances -- Hurst
         Artie's Children's Playhouse:  
               
Peter Pan Jr -- Mar 8 - Apr 12
                My Son Pinocchio Jr -- Apr 19 - May 10
         Main Stage Performances:         
                The Scarlet Pimpernel -- Mar 7 - Apr 10
                Lost In Yonkers -- Apr 18 - May 10
49.  Breitling Youth Theater/Acting for Children Performances -- Garland
50.  Cantare Performance Choir -- Southlake
50.  Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse Performances -- Fort Worth
51.  CATS Theater Performances -- Arlington
52.  Cottage Theater Performances -- Watauga
53.  Dallas Children’s Theater Performances -- Dallas
54.  Dallas Symphony Orchestra -- Dallas
55.  Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra -- Fort Worth
55.  Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra -- Dallas
56.  Plano Children’s Theater Performances -- Plano
57.  Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
            Serenade & Gloria -- February 28-March 2
                    HEART of Texas Discount Day -- March 1 at 2pm (30% Discount)
            Swan Lake -- May 30-June 1
                    HEART of Texas Discount Day -- May 31 at 2pm (30% Discount)

57.  Texas Ballet Theater Dance School -- Dance Classes -- Fort Worth
58.  Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
      
ART MUSEUMS
59.  Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
60.  Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
        Variations on Theme: Contemporary Art 1950s - Present
        Through Encountering Space in the Center for Creative Connections -- Throughout Spring 2013

61.  Kimbell Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
        Admission to the museum's Permanent Collection is always FREE
62.  Perot Museum -- Dallas
        Homeschool Programs:
                                        Mar 3 & 17: Weather & Climate
63.  Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
        Air Park -- now through January 28
64.  Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas

OMNI THEATERS   
65.  Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
        Rocky Mountain Express
        Bugs! A Rainforest Adventure
        Animalopolis
        Forces of Nature
  

HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
66.  Programs at Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
67.  Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
68.  Old Red Museum -- Dallas

SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
69.  Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History --  Mar 8; Apr 5; May 10
70.  North Texas District Science Fair for Home Schoolers

HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your non-profit Sport/PE program
70.  Aledo Christian School's Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, Softball Teams -- Aledo
71.  Berne Academy's Varsity Boys Basketball Team -- Lancaster

72.  Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
73.  Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen
74.  Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
75.  Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
76.  Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers  
77.  Home School Athletic Association
78.  Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
79.  Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Southlake
80.  Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
81.  Parker-Tarrant Home School 
82.  Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
83.  THESA Riders Home School Association
84.  Training For Confidence Martial Arts School -- Colleyville
85.  Best Gymnastics -- Flower Mound
86.  Home School Golf Program -- Lantana Golf Club 

SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Become a HEART of Texas Support Group Partner to list your Support Group here!
87.  Smoothing the Way Meetings in North Texas
88.  
DFW Speech and Debate Club -- Coppell
89.  Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton

90.  Irving Home Schoolers -- Irving
91.  PEACH -- Plano

COLLEGE PREP
92.  SAT Test Dates
93.  SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas   

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
94.  Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteer opportunities must indicate a direct homeschool interest to be included in this listing.
95.  Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
96.  Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdVENTURES
97.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals; Friendship -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
98.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Johnson & Ellis Counties
99.  Home School Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
100. Texas Global Education and Cultural Exchange Program 

OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
101. Free Organ Recital -- Dallas
102. Greater Plano Area Cotillion -- 2013-2014 events


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE

Judge Removes Children Illegally
Tim Lambert, President of Texas Home School Coalition

Reprinted with permission from Tim Lambert's blog on THSC.org, Jan 2, 2014

On November 21 seven children from a home school family in Duncanville were forcibly removed from their home, in spite of no evidence of abuse or neglect, by order of Judge Graciela Olvera of the 256th District Court of Dallas County. Judge Olvera issued a removal order at an ex-parte hearing in which the parents were not represented nor notified.

This action against the Tutt family reminds me of that saying, “No good deed goes unpunished.” The Tutts are a Christian family who have five biological children, three adopted children, and one in the process of private adoption. (Three of the biological children are grown and living outside the home.) The Tutts spent several years as a licensed CPS foster home, adopted a child from CPS foster care, and now serve with Safe Families, working with at-risk families and directly with CPS to help children who are in need of care as a result of abuse or neglectful situations. At the time of the incident that drew CPS’s attention, they were caring for a sibling group of five, including a child with autism, through Safe Families. Additionally, CPS had independently placed an infant with them, knowing that they already had 12 children in their home. This family obviously has a heart for helping children in bad situations, and CPS itself was aware of this goodwill and has called on the family as a resource for such children for many years.
 
Sign the Petition to Support the Tutt Family

 On September 21 the four year-old child with autism wandered away from the home. The Tutts’ eight-year-old went after him but could not bring him back, so he stayed with the child while the other Tutt children notified their father, who immediately got in his car and began to search for them. Unfortunately, he turned right at the end of the block while the children turned left, and a police officer picked them up and returned them to the home before Mr. Tutt could find them. Without entering the home, but seemingly upset with the number of children there, the fact that the shaded yard did not have grass, and the fact that the autistic child had soiled himself, the officer contacted CPS. Mrs. Tutt’s documentation from the local school and from Safe Families that the child was autistic and that CPS was well aware how many children were in the home was ignored by the officer.

This call by the police resulted in an investigation by a CPS caseworker who, after walking through the home, acknowledged, “There is no problem here.” Mrs. Tutt was cordial and fully cooperative with the caseworker. In the course of this conversation the caseworker questioned Mrs. Tutt about her ministry to the homeless and asked why she would choose to stay at home with her children. The caseworker said, “Nobody in their right mind would want to stay home all day with so many children!” Apparently this was not a figure of speech, because the caseworker issued a “Safety Plan” requiring the Tutts to take parenting classes and requiring Mrs. Tutt to have a psychological examination. Mrs. Tutt made sure the caseworker put an expiration date on the Safety Plan before she left. The expiration date was October 20.

In spite of the “Safety Plan” expiring on October 20, on October 31 the caseworker returned. Mrs. Tutt produced certificates documenting that they had already taken the requisite parenting classes within the last year and had had two family therapy sessions in the previous two weeks. In addition, Mrs. Tutt produced a certificate from her doctor noting her physical and mental fitness to care for children. The caseworker signed a copy of the doctor’s certificate to show she had received it and noted that CPS had no services that could be offered to the family because the Tutts had already taken so many parenting classes on their own as part of their work with Safe Families. She told Mrs. Tutt she would see if the doctor’s certificate would be sufficient proof of mental fitness and then handed her a listing of all the service providers used by CPS for everything clinical, without any further instructions. The list was basically a “phone book” of all services, from drug rehab to prenatal care. The Tutts did not hear again from the caseworker

On November 14 there was an ex-parte hearing in which Judge Olvera issued an order to remove the children from the Tutt home, in spite of the fact that CPS had acknowledged, “There is no problem here.” Under Texas Family Code, Chapter 262, removal from the home requires immediate threat of harm to children, but no immediate action was taken by CPS for a full week.

On the morning of November 21 three cars of armed constables arrived at the Tutt home and took possession of the children, not allowing their mother to put shoes on them and refusing to put them in their car seats. The constables told Mrs. Tutt that they were taking the children and herself to a meeting with a judge and CPS, a statement that was untrue.

On arrival at the local CPS office, the caseworker there informed Mrs. Tutt that her children were being removed by order of a judge. The caseworker would not tell Mrs. Tutt the charges and would not show her any paperwork. When Mrs. Tutt attempted to have her children placed with friends and family, as is standard CPS procedure, she was told, “We don’t do that anymore.” Mrs. Tutt cited the CPS Handbook, Section 4511, but was rebuffed, and the caseworker refused to allow any of the children to be placed with friends or family. Mrs. Tutt was told the children would be placed in foster care and that there would be a hearing on December 4 to discuss the matter further. It gets worse!

In the interim, the guardian ad litem appointed by Judge Olvera to represent the “best interests of the children” did her own “educational examination” of the traumatized children and concluded they were not being “properly educated.” Her descriptions of the children’s inability to count objects, say the alphabet, or spell their names were unbelievable to the Tutts’ many friends and family who had witnessed their academic ability over the years. The guardian ad litem also told the Tutts’ attorney that the children were being “brainwashed” to think they did not need education.

On December 4 a full hearing was scheduled for December 16. Judge Olvera dismissed the Tutts’ attorney’s concerns that she did not have jurisdiction over the case and responded to her request to move the hearing on this matter to another court by saying, “If you don’t like my ruling, you can appeal it.”

On December 16, in spite of protests by the Tutts’ attorney that it is not lawful to remove children or keep them in CPS foster care without evidence of abuse or neglect, the attorney ad litem recommended to Judge Olvera that the children remain in CPS care. No charges of abuse. No charges of neglect. No charges at all, in fact. There were simply the GAL’s concerns that the children were “severely behind educationally.”

According to witnesses in the courtroom, the hearing quickly devolved into a relentless attack on this family’s religious beliefs, community service, and right to home school their children—with no legal basis at all. Mrs. Tutt herself was on the stand for three full hours.

CPS attorneys berated Mrs. Tutt for not using a “state-certified home school curriculum,” in spite of the fact that there is no such thing in Texas. The guardian ad litem denigrated her for not submitting documentation of her home schooling to the state on a regular basis, including state-mandated tests. This, of course, is not only not required, but there is no way for someone to do so in Texas.

According to another witness, the guardian ad litem told the court that she herself had a home school friend who turned her children’s work into the Texas Education Agency for academic credits, a claim that is ludicrous.

When the Tutts’ attorney was finally given the floor, she had almost no time to present her case. She had to reduce her witness list from 20 to only six (two of them taking the stand for fewer than five minutes apiece), was unable to fully cross-examine, and was unable to present her closing arguments. By that time it was 9 p.m. The case had been going on for more than 12 hours.

The next day Judge Olvera issued her ruling: The Tutts’ children would not be returned to them but would be kept in foster care. Again, no abuse, no neglect—nothing but a rogue judge who decided to place her view of what was best for these children regarding home education above the law. The Tutts’ appealed.

A hearing before a new judge has been set for January 7, and the new judge has stated that the only evidence she will hear is the justification for the children’s removal. To this day, the Tutts have never been charged with abuse, neglect, or anything at all. The papers they were finally given five days after the removal only contained anecdotes about the caseworker’s visit—nothing actionable by CPS. The guardian ad litem, in the meantime, met with the Tutts in their home with their attorney and acknowledged she has no concerns about the children’s safety, the parents’ parenting ability, the ministry in which the family is involved, or how many children they have in their home, but she will not recommend to the court that the children be returned unless the Tutts agree to place their children in public school and never home school them.

THSC wrote a letter to this attorney to clarify as to the status of home schooling in Texas and to note that her assertion that the children are behind academically does not meet the statutory definition of neglect according to the Texas Family Code. To support our position, we also shared with her the policy statement of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services regarding investigations of abuse/neglect with regard to home school families. Finally, we shared with her the most recent letter from the TEA regarding Texas laws related to home schooling to help her understand that the state of Texas does not regulate, monitor, or oversee home schooling. Of course, we also copied this information to the attorney representing the Tutts as well. These egregious actions and violations of the law have earned Judge Olvera a place on our Texas Judicial Wall of Shame. Look for a public announcement when her addition is posted.

What can you do to help the Tutts? First, pray for them and for their attorney and that the new judge will follow the law and return their children. Secondly, sign our online petition to show you support for this embattled home school family and sign up for our updates to keep abreast of developments in this case. Thirdly, share this information with your friends and ask them to take action as well.


Tim Lambert is the president of the Texas Home School Coalition, the state advocacy organization whose purpose is to help protect home school freedoms.  For more information about THSC, please visit www.thsc.org.

Back to Featured Articles Listing

View Month at a Glance

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE

No Greater Joy Ministries Offering FREE Magazines to Support Groups and Home School Families!

Mike & Debi Pearl of No Greater Joy Ministries would love to send your home school group FREE magazines!  They have set aside some extra copies just for your group to pass out at your monthly meeting.  To request copies for families in your group, please email Debi Pearl with the number of magazines you need, and where to mail them.

Or, if your family would like to get your own FREE subscription, visit their site
and sign up for their
magazine.

Back to Featured Articles Listing

View Month at a Glance

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FEATURED ARTICLE

NEST Family Learning Offering Discount to Our Readers!

NEST Family Learning has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer a special discount to readers of our newsletter!

Simply visit this link 
to start shopping and begin enjoying your savings today!  Use coupon code "HEART" when placing your order.

Back to Featured Articles Listing

View Month at a Glance

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1.    LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES

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:  2424 Forest Ridge Drive
                Bedford, TX  76021
                817-952-2373
Contact:  Carrie Glinderman

TUESDAYS -- Sprouts Story Time
(for the more active child)
Time:  10 a.m.–10:20 a.m.

TUESDAYS -- Story Book Club
(for the child who is ready to be a sitter and listener)
Time: 11 a.m.11:25 a.m.

THURSDAYS -- Peapods Story Time
(for babies 2 years and under and their caregiver.)
Registration is required for this program.
For More Information:  Contact Kids Help Desk at 817-952-2373

Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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

NORTHWEST BRANCH
Location:  
6228 Crystal Lake Dr
        817-392-5420

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


Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location:  901 Precinct Line Road
               Hurst, TX  76053
               817-788-7300
Contact:  Click Here to email

For Kids--Birth through Elementary
 
Chapter Chats
Who: 3rd-6th graders
When: 2nd Tuesdays
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Do you love books? Do you enjoy talking about them with others? Here’s your chance! Share your views with other kids who have read what you have. Interested parents are welcome, too.
 
Puppet People
Who: 4th-8th graders
When: Wednesdays
Time: 4:00-5:00 p.m.
Calling Puppet People—old and new!  Would you like to try your hand—or two—at puppetry? Now’s your chance!  We’ll be working on shows for kids this summer.  Call 817-788-7302 to register.
 
Babygarten
Who: Children birth-18 months and an accompanying caregiver
When: Saturdays
Time: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Babygarten is an educational curriculum involving songs, rhymes and activities that help babies with language acquisition and preliteracy skills.  Space is limited, so please register at 817-788-7302.

Bedtime Stories
Who: For all ages
When: Tuesdays
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Wear your pajamas and slippers and come for some stories and fun that might (or might not!) make you ready for bed!
 
 
Teen Zone --7th through 12th graders
 
Anime Club
Who: For 7th-12th graders
When: 1st Thursdays
Time: 6-8 p.m.
If you enjoy anime—watching it and talking about it—this is the place for you! Come to the Teen Zone with other teens that love anime, just for fun!
 
Teen Night
Who: For 7th-12th graders
When: 2nd Thursdays
Time: 7 p.m.
Can’t wait to share your thoughts on some popular books? Join together in the Teen Zone to voice your opinions!
 
TUESDAYS & WEDNESDAYS -- Story Time for ages 3-6
Time: 10:45 a.m.–11:15 a.m.

MONDAYS & THURSDAYS -- Toddler Time for ages 1-3
Time: 10 a.m.–10:30 a.m.

MONDAYS -- Chess Club (elementary ages and up)
Time: 4 p.m.–5 p.m.


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:  3 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost:  Free - must have a Hurst Library Card
How To Access: V
isit 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:  C
all Youth Services at 817-788-7302 or www.hurst.lib.tx.us


Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LEWISVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location:  1197 W. Main Street, Lewisville, 75067
               972-219-3577
Contact:  Click Here to email  or call 972-547-7319

Homeschool Tours of Library
Would you like to know more about your local library and its many resources?  The Lewisville Public Library invites Lewisville-area homeschooling families to learn how they can get the most out of their public library!  We are happy to conduct library tours for groups of homeschooling students and their parents; call the Youth Services Desk at 972-219-3577 to make a tour reservation.  If you prefer to do a tour on your own, we also offer a self-guided tour of the Cynthia Bennett Children's Wing.  Just ask for a self-guided tour sheet at the Youth Services Desk.  The tour is a little like a library scavenger hunt, with tasks to complete and questions to answer along the way.  The activity is designed for elementary-aged students with parent guidance.

Library Resource Training
If you have a group that would like a more in-depth library orientation including an overview of electronic resources such as the library catalog, databases, and eBooks, we are able to offer such trainings by request as time, staffing, and library event schedules allow.  Contact the Youth Services Desk at 972-219-3577 and ask to speak to a librarian if you are interested in discussing opportunities.  This type of activity is best-suited to upper elementary, middle, or high school students.

Classes and Events
Lewisville Public Library offers a variety of classes and events throughout the year, and homeschooled children and teens are always invited to join us.  To see a list of upcoming classes and events, visit the library's webpage at library.cityoflewisville.com, and find us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/LewisvillePublicLibrary) for the latest updates, reminders, and announcements.

We look forward to seeing you at the library!


Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
McKINNEY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Location:  101 E. Hunt Street
               McKinney, TX  75069
               972-547-READ
Contact:  Click Here to email  or call 972-547-7319

Program Calender:
Click Here  


Spring 2013

Preschool Programs: For children from birth through entering Kindergarten. Tickets will be handed out for all preschool programs beginning at 10am

STORYTIMES
Fun with Baby:
6-17 mos & caregiver
When: Tuesdays
Time: 10:15am

Hold My Hand: 18mos-3 yr & caregiver
When: Tuesdays
Time: 10:15am

On My Own: 3-5 yr olds
When: Tuesdays
Time: 11am

MUSIC & MOVEMENT
18 mos-3 yrs old: child and caregiver
When: Mondays
Time: 10:15am

3 through 5 year olds: Independent child
When: Mondays
Time: 11am

FAMILY STORY TIME
For caregiveres and children of all ages
When: Wednesdays
Time: 6:30pm


SCHOOL-AGE PROGRAMS
Details: For children in Kindergarten through 5th grade.
Animal Kingdoms: Learn about different areas of the world and the animals who live there.
Time: 3:30-4:15pm
When: Jan 15: Super Heroes; Feb 12: Artists

Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROCKWALL COUNTY LIBRARY
Location:  1215 E. Yellowjacket Lane 
               Rockwall, TX  75087
               972-204-7700
Contact:  Click Here to email 
 
Registration required for programs:  Click here to register

•    An Intermediate Computer Class will be held on May 9 from 10:00-11:30am. Call 972-204-7770 to register.  
•    The Library has book bags available at the front desk for a donation of your choice.

FREE CONTACT SCIENCE EXHIBIT NOW OPEN
This exciting interactive science exhibit known as Contact Science is at the Rockwall County Library. The first explorative unit is called MicroWorld Adventures. Discover what your skin looks like up close. Examine the legs and wings of a grasshopper and see penicillin the way scientists see it. This unit has both a "scope on a rope" microscope and a high magnification microscope. Come and learn to use them to view prepared specimens as well as other objects of your own choosing and start exploring the micro-worlds around you. MicroWorld Adventures will be at the Rockwall County Library through May 2012 and is available most hours the Library is open.

While the exhibit is primarily for children in grades 3-6, younger and older children and adults may enjoy exploring it as well. For more information about the exhibit, contact the Youth Services Department of the Library at 972-204-7740.

Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS

Back to the top 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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 a.m. 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 p.m. – 5 p.m. 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”


Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
                                  
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

NEW PROGRAM FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
The Southeast Branch of the Arlington Library is starting a program called: “Homeschool Thursdays”. Being held every other Thursday starting January 16th.
 
(Events are free)
 
MAR 13 - “Poetry”
-- this program is funded by a grant and is exclusively for 4th grade.

MAR 27 - “Science Project” --  Lava Lamps!  3rd-6th

APR 10 - “Science Project” --  Volcanoes!  3rd-6th

APR 24 - “Game Day” --  final celebration for all ages

To Register: Click Here
 

Sharing Our Voices (High School) 8 week session
Date: Sat afternoons from Sept 14-Nov 2
Location: George W Hawkes Central Library
Time: 1:30-3:30pm
Details: High School students will learn to use poetry as a means of creative expression and will use art to create an enhanced eBook with the guidance of UTA professor, Dr. Cedrick May.
For more information and to register online: http://www.arlingtonlibrary.org/calendar/sharing-our-voices-poetry-workshop-high-school-students
 
Finding Your Own Voice (Junior High) 6 week session
Date: Tues afternoons Oct 8 through Nov 12
Location: George W Hawkes Central Library
Details:  Led by local, award-winning poet and the DFW National Youth Poetry Slams founder Mike Guinn. Junior High students will build an appreciation for the art of poetry and develop creative performance skills through SLAM (Spoken Language Arts Method) poetry
For more information and to register online (starting September 16): http://www.arlingtonlibrary.org/calendar/finding-your-own-voice-poetry-workshop-junior-high-students-0
 
Both of these workshop series are made possible by a grant from the National Endowment of the Arts in Education.


Back to LIBRARY PROGRAMS
                                  
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2.  BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM

MAY 1, 2014 -- Enrollment Opens for Home School Students

Who Can Participate:
  Children in grades K-6.

The Book It! Reading Program is sponsored by Pizza Hut and runs from October 1 through March 31 each school year. 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:  Support groups may not register families for the program.  Each home school family will need to enroll individually to be able to participate, for their children in grades K-6th grade.  They must not be attending another educational facility.

For Detailed Program Information: Click Here

To Enroll Your Homeschool: Click Here  (Enrollment opens in May 1, 2013)

Book It! Hotline:  1-800-426-6548
Hotline hours:  9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CT (Monday through Friday)


Back to READING REWARD PROGRAMS
                                 
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.  BRAUMS BOOK BUDDY PROGRAM

The Braum's Book Buddy program gives children the opportunity to read for delicious prizes from Braum's!  This program is open to home school families!

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:  Click Here  
   
Back to READING REWARD PROGRAMS
                                 
Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SIX FLAGS READ TO SUCCEED

Read to Succeed is an exciting program that encourages students in grades K through 6 to read for fun. Students who complete six hours of recreational reading earn free tickets to Six Flags! The program is available to teachers and schools at no cost to participate, and it's a great way to motivate kids to read.
 
To register for Read To Succeed for the 2013-2014 school year, please click the Registration link below.  Even if you participated last year, you will need to register again for the new school year. Click here to register.


Back to READING REWARD PROGRAMS
                                 
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.  BEST ROBOTICS 
     

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 sports-like, science- and engineering-based robotics competition.

Get a glimpse of the teaser video for this year's competition:  Click Here

For Rules:  Click Here


Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5.  FIRST LEGO LEAGUE:  2014 FLL WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

Challenge Release: Click here for more information about the 2014 FLL WORLD CLASS Challenge
Tournament Season: Coming August 2014
World Festival: TBA

If you are interested in coaching or being involved next year:
visit the website to learn more.

About the 2014 Challenge:  What is the future of learning? FIRST® LEGO® League teams will find the answers.  In the 2014 FLL WORLD CLASS℠ Challenge, over 230,000 children ages 9 to 16 from over 70 countries will redesign how we gather knowledge and skills in the 21st century. Teams will teach adults about the ways that kids need and want to learn.  Get ready for a whole new class – FLL WORLD CLASSSM!

FLL challenges kids to think like scientists and engineers.  During FLL WORLD CLASSSM, teams will build, test, and program an autonomous robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS® to solve a set of missions in the Robot Game.  They will also choose and solve a real-world question in the Project.  Throughout their experience, teams will operate under FLL’s signature set of Core Values.

Core Values of FLL:
The FLL Core Values are among the fundamental elements that distinguish FLL from other programs of its kind. By embracing the Core Values, participants learn that friendly competition and mutual gain are not separate goals, and that helping one another is the foundation of teamwork.
    * We are a team.
    * We do the work to find solutions with guidance from our coaches and mentors.
    * We honor the spirit of friendly competition.
    * What we discover is more important than what we win.
    * We share our experiences with others.
    * We display Gracious Professionalism and "Coopertition" in everything we do.
    * We have fun.

Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.  TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST

ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31 (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.

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.

Who Can Participate:  All Texas students in grades K through 12.  Four winners from each state will be selected, one winner per grade group (K-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12), for a total of 200 winners nationwide.

Prizes:  All contestants will receive a certificate of participation. Four winners from each state will be selected, one winner per grade group (K-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12), for a total of 200 winners nationwide. Participants will compete within their own state and grade category regardless of species submitted. Winning designs will be displayed at the Wildlife Forever State-Fish Art Expo in the summer following the contest deadline. All winning designs will be displayed on the State-Fish Art website.  

The Art of Conservation Stamp Award:  Each year Wildlife Forever will select one design (based on specific criteria) from all the entries for an attractive fish stamp.

How to Enter:  Students must create an illustration of the Texas state fish or one of the other state fishes (see list of official fish) 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.

For Rules, Prizes and Other Details:  Click Here

For More Information:
Click Here



Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7.  NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION FOR 6-8TH GRADERS

The North Texas Regional Competition is open to all public, private, parochial and home school 7th and 8th grade classes.  Teams must be willing to make the trip to Arlington to present their designs.  The Competition offers students a hands-on way to build their math and science skills and learn about engineering by solving the real-world problems in designing cities of the future.

Program Timeline: Click Here

Through the program, students will:
    * Work as a team under the guidance of a teacher and a technical professional,
    * Use a popular award-winning computer game, SimCity, to design a logical model of a future city,
    * Realize their design with a physical scale model built with recycled materials,
    * Research and write an essay on an assigned engineering topic,
    * Communicate their design to a panel of judges in a public presentation, and
    * See firsthand how engineers turn ideas into reality.

Nominal Cost: $25 per school for registration, and we provide the software.
Registration is by school. Schools may have more than one team competing.
Schools are limited to spending no more than $100 per team on the model and presentation, combined.

Upon receipt of registration and fee, you will receive:
    • One copy of SimCity (for either Windows or Mac operating systems)
    • The Teacher-Mentor Handbook - more than 150 pages of basic rules and information on the competition, lists of resources, ideas on how to incorporate the program into the curriculum, and hints for teachers
    • A tutorial CD
    • Specific rules and schedules for the North Texas regional competition
    • Posters

Teams:  3 students, 1 teacher-sponsor, 1 engineer-mentor.
The program employs a team-based approach. All members of the team have an important role that is necessary for the completion of the project.

Benefit:  The winning team gets a trip to Washington, DC to compete in the national finals.

Details:  TBA

To Register:  Click Here
To Download Brochure:  Click Here

For More Information:  Click Here to send email or visit http://www.dfwfuturecity.org


Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8.  USA MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH

The USA Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS) is a FREE mathematics competition open to all United States middle and high school students.

The USAMTS allows students a full month to work out their solutions. Carefully written justifications are required for each problem. The problems range in difficulty from being within the reach of most high school students to challenging the best students in the nation. Students may use any materials - books, calculators, computers - but all the work must be their own. The USAMTS is run on the honor system - it is an individual competition, whose competitive role is very secondary. (Although we do give prizes.)

The USAMTS consists of three rounds, with each round featuring five problems. Each round of problems is published at least four weeks before solutions are due.

Student solutions to the USAMTS problems are graded by mathematicians and comments are returned to the students. Our goal is to help all students: develop problem solving skills, improve their technical writing abilities, and mature mathematically.  We wish to foster not only insight, ingenuity and creativity, but also the virtue of perseverance, which is equally essential in scientific endeavors.

The USAMTS is one of the ways to enter the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad team, which participates in the International Mathematical Olympiad. The USAMTS score necessary to qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) is set by the American Mathematics Competitions (which run the AIME) and varies from year to year. Students who score well on the USAMTS after the first three rounds are invited to take the AIME, the second step in the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad Team.  With permission, USAMTS participant's names and addresses are provided to colleges, universities, and employers for recruitment purposes.

Round 3 Solutions of the USAMTS
is now available:  Click Here

Rules governing the USAMTS:  Click Here

Rules for submitting solutions: Click Here
Submissions that do not follow these guidelines may be rejected.

To Register:  Click Here
(If you have already registered in a past year, you do not need to register again.)

Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
9. IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CONTEST FOR K-12

About the Challenge:  Igniting Creative Energy (ICE) is a national student contest promoting creativity and environmental stewardship. ICE is unique in the realm of student contests due to a commitment to allowing rather than restricting. Entries in the contest range from poetry, videos, essays, 3D models, games to anything else a student may be able to imagine and create.

Rules of Eligibility: (subject to change)
• No purchase necessary. This is a competition of skill.
•Entries must be postmarked
• The Challenge is open to all students in grades K-12 in the U.S. and Canada. Void in Quebec.
• Entries must be submitted individually with the exception of group projects.
• Group projects may be submitted, however each individual in the group must submit his/her own entry form and written explanation and will be judged independently. All prizes will be awarded to individuals.
• Entries must relate to the theme "Igniting Creative Energy".
• Entries must be the student's original work.
• Entries must be complete, legible and include required signatures.
• Students may enter multiple projects in any creative form within the following limits:
• Documentation or written entries (500 words or 3 page limit).
• Audio or Music (3 minute limit).
• Media or electronic (10 minute limit). Videos in VHS or DVD format only.
• All entries must include a written explanation (not to exceed one page) describing how the entry relates to the theme. (see judging criteria below)
• Entries must be accompanied by the official Igniting Creative Energy entry form (click here).
• Entry forms must include signatures of the student and parent or legal guardian.
• Employees of Johnson Controls, Inc. and the National Energy Foundation and their immediate families, household members and dependents may participate, but are not eligible for prizes.
• The Challenge is open to all students K-12, however only students enrolled in accredited public and private schools are eligible for the grand prize.
• State winners will be selected from each state that has a minimum of 25 entries
 

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 and Other Details:  TBA


Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10. TEXAS BEEF LEADERS OF TOMORROW CONTEST

JULY 1, 2013 – Contest Registration Deadline 

AUGUST 3, 2013 – Texas Beef Leaders of Tomorrow Contest Takes Place
at Kleberg Center, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX

Who Can Participate:
Any student, aged 17-20 (17 as of July 30, 2012, and not over 20 by Jan 1, 2013), who is enthusiastic about the beef industry is eligible to compete. The four individuals with the highest combined scores are selected to join the team.
To be eligible to compete, contestants must complete the following:
1) One Media Interview: local, state, or national print, radio or television media
2) One Consumer Promotion: such as in-store demonstrations and health fairs
3) One Youth Presentation: made to elementary age youth. If it is not possible to make the presentation in the classroom, after school programs or youth organizations such as 4-H, YMCA or scouts groups may be used.

Awards:
The top four winners of the TBLT contest will be awarded a $2,000 scholarship. In addition, the winners receive industry and media training, travel opportunities across Texas, invaluable experience and exposure in the beef industry. The high point winner will represent Texas in the National Beef Ambassador Competition which affords more opportunities for prizes and scholarships. Expenses to the National Beef Ambassador Competition will be funded by the Texas Beef Checkoff.

Contestants compete in four categories:
1) Media Interview – The contestant will participate in a mock media interview. The interviewer will have pre-determined questions to ask each contestant with the option to ask follow-up questions in order to extrapolate additional knowledge or clarify a point. A panel of judges will observe the interaction for: knowledge, articulation, poise and the contestant’s ability to “Tell the Beef Production Story” and present the industry in a positive light. Scoring will be done by the judges only. The contestants should be well versed in all areas of beef production and the beef industry relating to consumers. Questions will be taken from the website www.explorebeef.org; however, special attention should be paid to all current industry issues.

2) Consumer Promotion – A mock consumer promotion event will be set up for the contestants. Each contestant will be provided with a “sample” to serve as well as beef industry production and nutrition literature and recipes. Scripted “Consumers” will approach the table to take the sample. They will ask questions to test the contestant’s knowledge, capacity to perform in the field and ability to present beef in a positive light. A panel of judges will observe and score each contestant on their ability to educate the consumer and provide the consumers with the appropriate information to answer their questions.

3) Youth Presentation – On competition day contestants will submit a report to represent the presentation made to youth. The report must contain the following items:
1. A lesson plan
2. An overall written report detailing your presentation and the response of your students.
3. A Teachers Evaluation form (provided)
4. Four pictures of you presenting to students
5. Examples of any items used in presentations may be included in two additional photos.
This report will be evaluated at the competition by two judges. Contestants will not be present at the evaluation nor will they be required to make a youth presentation at the competition. Reports and all materials contained in them become the property of the Texas CattleWomen.

4) Issues Response – Contestants will be provided with a recently published news article regarding the beef industry. Each contestant will compose a brief (150 words or less) response to the article. The judges will score the contestants on their ability to respond to an industry article by thoughtfully answering questions, identifying misinformation and listing positive consumer information.
  
For Contest Information, Rules & Forms:  Click Here

For More Information:  
Click Here to Email                  
 
Contest hosted by Texas CattleWomen and sponsored by the Beef Checkoff


Back to CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11.  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.
 
For More Information:  Click Here to Email
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
    

Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12.  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:  Click Here to email

For More Information: Click Here

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.
    

Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
13.  HURST-EULESS-BEDFORD TEEN COURT

The Hurst-Euless-Bedford Teen Court is a program that allows juveniles with Class C misdemeanor offenses an alternative to the criminal justice system. Offenders' cases are presented to a jury of their peers by volunteer teen attorneys. Teen jury members assign community services sentences, and upon completion of the program the offenders' case(s) are dismissed and removed from their record.

HEB Teen Court is currently open for both ADULT AND TEEN VOLUNTEERS! Adult volunteers can serve as Jury or Master Jury Monitors. Teens can serve as clerks, bailiffs, and attorneys. Teen Court is held on various Monday evenings, usually twice a month. If you have a few hours you can spare on a Monday evening, come volunteer with HEB Teen Court.

There are many great benefits for teen volunteers such as earning community service hours for school (National Honor Society, CAS, International Baccalaureate), your college resume, and for scholarship opportunities. For more information contact Mindy Eichorst in Teen Court at the number or email below.

Location:  HEB Teen Court
        2000 Forest Ridge Drive
        Bedford, TX 76021
        817-952-2468


To Volunteer:  Click Here to email

For More Information: Click Here

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.
    

Back to CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
14.  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 call 972-556-0162 or Click Here to send an email with the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to.
  
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/
 

Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
15.  ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL HIGH SCHOOL 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.


24th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2014 ART COMPETITION
The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! Additionally, the winner will be provided airfare and lodging for two to visit Washington, DC where he or she will be recognized among the other winners from across the country.
Every contestant will have his or her artwork digitally displayed on the Congressional website and receive a special certificate of recognition. A group of 5 finalist will be invited to a special ceremony where the winner will be announced.  The 4 runner-ups will receive a special consolation prize of showcasing their artwork in North Texas gallery.

Who Can Participate:  All high school students living in the 24th Congressional District, including homeschoolers.

All Entries Must Meet the Following Criteria:  No larger than 28 inches wide by 28 inches tall by 4 inches thick. All work must be original in concept, design, and execution, and must not violate any U.S. copyright laws.
Artwork must be two-dimensional and cannot weigh more than 15 lbs.


DEADLINE APRIL 15

Each Contestant needs to complete the Art Contest Application: Click Here
And submit a digital photo no larger than 1 MG : Click here to email




26th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2014 ART COMPETITION
The Grand Prize for the competition is the display of the winning student's artwork for an entire year in the U.S. Capitol.  In addition, the First Place winner will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in Congressman Burgess' Lewisville district office for the upcoming year. The 26th District winner and a guest will be invited to Washington, D.C. in the summer to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony honoring the winning artists and the opening of the exhibition. In addition, the competition’s second and third place winners will have the opportunity to have their work displayed publicly in my Lewisville and Fort Worth offices for the upcoming year.  

Who Can Participate:  All public, private, and home-schooled high school students living in the 26th Congressional District.

DEADLINE MARCH 5th 5:00pm
For More Information: Click Here Or call: 972-434-9700


Back to CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
16.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION - WATAUGA


THE SOUND OF MUSIC
Performances: March 28- April 6

Details:
An exalted ex-military man in Austria takes on a new governess, Maria, a nun too free spirited for any convent, to look after his over-disciplined children. The rebellious children first reject Maria then learn to love her because Maria was able to introduce art and freedom to the youth-deprived children and eventually their father as well. Captain Von Trapp does not agree with Austria's position in the war, and he and his family must flee from the Nazis who want to tear his family apart, newly invigorated with love and joy thanks to Maria.


Ticket Prices: $10 for adults, $8 for students
Tickets may be purchased at: 817-281-2293
 

Center for Home Education provides, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.

Enrichment Classes

See our website for details about these and other classes, and call 817-281-2293 or visit the store to register.

Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)

Website:  http://centerforhomeeducation.com/

 
Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
17.  CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER IN ROWLETT

Christian Educators Resource Center has a full line-up of electives for the elementary student through the high school student!

Discount:  CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any in-stock items.  You must present your current HEART of Texas Family I.D. card to qualify for the discount.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Location:  Christian Educators Resource Center
        4501 Rowlett Rd., Suite 105
        Rowlett, TX 75088

Contact:    972-475-4138
        http://www.cerconline.org


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18.  CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ALLIANCE OF TEXAS

Enrichment Days is a fun, exciting, and educational learning group that meets six times each semester at a local church.

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. 
 
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.



Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
19.  E.A. YOUNG ACADEMY -- North Richland Hills

E.A. Young Academy is offering summer programs and enrichment classes to home school students.

Location:
8521 Davis Blvd
N. Richland Hills, TX  76182
For More Information:  Click Here

Discount:  E.A. Young Academy is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid ID Card) a
$45 discount off each Ignit Summer program Intensive.  Members will also receive discounts off
enrichment classes as they are developed.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
20.  EASTFIELD COLLEGE

For Class Registration or Other Information:  972-860-7113


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
21.  ENRICHMENT CLASSES, INC, IN GRAPEVINE

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. 

For More Information:  940-455-7000 or Click Here


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23.  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.

For Class Descriptions, Fees and Other Information: Click Here

Classes Offered:
Art

Science
English
Foreign Language
Girls Gymnastics
Guitar Lessons
History
Math
Physical Education
Robotics
World View

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: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership
    

Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
23.  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


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24.  JOY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY IN DECATUR
    
For more information on the JOY Christian Academy and the home school enrichment courses we offer, please go to www.joyca.org.


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
25.  MATTHEW ROAD ACADEMY

An affordable Christian university model school, we offer academic and elective courses from Kinder to Highschool. Pick and choose courses from Art to English Composition to Algebra and more! Limited spots available in each course.

Please check out our website for more information: http://matthewroad.org/#/schools/matthew-road-academy

Or call Candice McClellin, 469-261-3779, MR Academy Registrar

Matthew Road Academy opens registration March 1st for the 2013-2014 school year.

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

26.  MORNING GLORY ACADEMY

Morning Glory Academy (MGA) is a classical Christian school in the university model, offering classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students study at home according to their family's schedule the other days of the week.  
 
To Register:  Click Here to email
For more information:
http://www.themga.org/
Location: Morning Glory Academy -- The Mount Church: 860 Keller-Smithfield Rd. Keller, TX  76248

MGA:  Your Home . . . Our School . . . Perfect Fit.


Discount:
  HEART of Texas Members receive a discount on tuition at MGA!

See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about  HEART of Texas membership:
http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership    



Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
27.  TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL MATH CLASSES
FOR HOME SCHOOLERS

TCC SE and South Campus offering homeschool math classes this spring. 
This may be our final semester depending on enrollment.

Classes offered:

South MW FW
Tri:  1-2:30pm
College Algebra:  2:30-4pm
Alegbra I:  4pm-5:30pm

SE Campus Arlington
College Alegbra:  Fridays, 8:30am-11:30am
Geometry: Fridays: 11:30am-2:30pm
PreCal Part 2:  Fridays: 2:30-4:30pm
Algebra II:  Tues/Thurs 2:30-4pm

Cost:
$173 for class and software.

Classes start second week in Jan and end second week in May

For more info contact:
Maurine Amend
mdamend@tx.rr.com
maurine.amend@tccd.edu
972-660-8414

First come first serve


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
28.  THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

Located in Plano, THEO’s 20 Christian, talented teachers—most homeschool momsoffer a myriad of classes for 6-12th grade home educated students.

Discount:  THEO is offering HEART of Texas family members with valid ID cards 20% off their regular application fee.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


SPRING 2014
REGISTRATION OPEN
Dual Credit Speech Communication with Collin College: Click Here

LEGO MINDSCALE LEARNING FOR 2-8th GRADERS
Date:
January 9 - February 27
Time: 8:50-9:50 is for 2nd-5th graders;  9:50-10:50 is for 6-8th graders
Cost: $135 flat fee for an 8 week class
Application fee for new THEO students is reduced to $25 if this is their own class

Mindscale Learning uses LEGO to promote conceptual learning solutions in science, math and technology while inspiring innovation, problem solving, self-confidence, communication and team-working skills. Using their Lego based technology, students will work in teams to create towers, cards, merry-go-rounds or a variety of other cool working gadgets.
(Minimum 10 students)

For More Information: Click Here

Current THEO students will not need to re-apply to join the class, but students new to THEO will need to complete a THEO application and pay the reduced spring application fee of $25.


For More Information:  
214-282-6936

For Complete List of Available 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
                214-282-6936


For Questions:   Click Here to email


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
29.  QUO VADIS EDUCATORS

"Serving the Home-School Community"
Classes held in Garland, TX

To Learn More:  click here to email or 972.271.0673.
For More Information:  
www.quovad2000.org

Discount:
  HEART of Texas Members (with a valid, current HEART of Texas Family ID card) receive
$5/month off tuition all year (up to 9 months per student per school year) AND Children's Theater Workshop Half-Price Tuition ($45 value, limit one discount per workshop) See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about  HEART of Texas membership:
 www.heartoftex.org


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30.  VINE ACADEMY -- McKINNEY

The Vine Academy seeks to assist home school parents by providing classes for middle and high schol students.  Classes meet once a week, with the student completing homework during the week.  All classes taught from a Christian perspective.  

For More Information:  
Click Here

Discount:  HEART of Texas Members (with a valid, current HEART of Texas Family ID card) receive $5/month off tuition all year.  See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about  HEART of Texas membership:
 www.heartoftex.org



Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top 


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
31.  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.


WICHITA FALLS --  MAR 1; APR 1; MAY 1
Time:
 Wed: noon-7:45pm; Thurs-Sat 10am-5:45pm
Location:   Friends of the Library Bookstore Book Sale
                600 11th Street
                940-767-0868 x 248
Books: 3,000 books; 100% donated; 85% hardcover; sorted; .50 to $2; Sat half price. 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CARROLLTON -- FEB 27 -MAR 2
Time: Thurs/Fri: 10am-9pm; Sat: 10am-7pm; Sun: Noon-6pm
Location:    Carrollton-Farmers Branch ISD Council PTA
                 at Northcrest Village Shopping Center
                 3044 Old Denton Rd. Ste 131
Books: 90,000 books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; paperback $1; hardcovers $2;                  Credit cards accepted

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WICHITA FALLS -- MAR 6-8
Time: Fri; Sat: 9am-8pm
Location:    Wichita Adult Literacy Council
                 Midwestern State University
                 Sikes Lake Center
                 3410 Taft Blvd
                 940-767-5257
Books: 40-50,000 books; 100% donated; 40% hardcover; sorted; paperbacks .50; hardcovers $1; A/V $1

Credit cards accepted
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JACKSONVILLE -- MAR 13-16
Time: Fri 10-6; Sat: 9-4; Sun: 1-5
Location:    Jacksonville Public Library
                 502 S. Jackson St.
                 903-586-7664
Books: 2,500+ books; 50% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; .25-.50; Sun half price or $5/box
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARLINGTON -- MAR 19-23 (Public Sale)
Time:
Thur 3pm-7pm; Fri: 9am-5pm; Sat: 9am-5pm; Sun: Noon-4pm
Location:    Friends of the Arlington Public Library
                 at Meadowbrook Recreation Center
                 1400 Dugan Street (Meadowbrook Park)
                 817-548-9768
Books: Paperbacks .50; Hardcover $1; Cash-Check-Credit Cards

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CORPUS CHRISTI -- MAR 19-24
Time:
Mall Hours: Wed-Mon: 10-9; Sun: 12pm-6
Location:    Brandeis Univ. Nat'l Woman's Committee
                 Sunrise Mall
                 5858 South Padre Island Dr. (Corner of McArdle Rd and Ailrline Rd)
                 361-548-5698 or 361-815-0850
Books: 15,000 books; 100% donated; 75% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; $1-$10

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DENTON -- MAR 27-30
Time:
Fri-Sat: 10-9; Sun: 11-6
Location:    Denton Public School Foundation & Denton ISD Council of PTA
                 Golden Triangle Mall
                 2201 South I-35E
                 940-369-0005
Books: 40,000 books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; no buyer restrictions; paperbacks $1; hardcovers $2; Credit cards accepted

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DENTON -- MAR 27-30
Time:
Fri-Sat: 10-9; Sun: 11-6
Location:    Denton Public School Foundation & Denton ISD Council of PTA
                 Golden Triangle Mall
                 2201 South I-35E
                 940-369-0005
Books: 40,000 books; 100% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; no buyer restrictions; paperbacks $1; hardcovers $2; Credit cards accepted
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BEDFORD -- MAR 28-30
Time:
Fri-Sat: 10-4; Sun: 1-3
Location:    Bedford Public Library 
                 2424 Forest Ridge Dr      
Books: 10,000 books; 75% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; no buyer restrictions; .50-$2;Credit cards accepted


Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
32.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education 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.centerforhomeeducation.com/   

Discount:  Center for Home Education 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: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
33.  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 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: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Back to BOOK SALES & HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
34.
 CAMPS AT CAMP TONKAWA

Camp Tonkawa is an Outdoor Learning Center, where we teach nature through hands on experiences.  Located outside of Collinsville, TX, on a 35 acre tract of land certified as a wildlife refuge.


MARCH 2014
5-- Nature Awareness Day Camp
Come for a Fun Day of Outdoor Learning about the plants and animals in your own backyard in the North Texas area. Become comfortable and knowledgeable in your own environment. We need at least 12 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early to reserve your places.


9-11 --  Primitive Survival Skills Combo Class 1&2
At any time, anywhere, things can go wrong and you might find yourself in a survival situation. Together you have the whole "Shelter, Water, Fire, Food" bases covered for complete survival. 3 FULL Days and 2 Nights.

13-15 -- Western Days
This camp was designed for horse lovers, aged 9 to 14 years. A three day camp will have half a day with horses: controlled riding sessions, grooming, feeding, and a trail ride. Camp will also include archery, canoeing, a scavenger hunt, games and crafts. Sleep in Indian Tipis, eat Dutch oven cooking, and just have a rodeo of fun.
Register early this is our Most Popular Kids Camp!

13-15 --  Spring Nature Camp
Three days of FUN in the woods, for your 7-14 year olds. Learn about the plants and wildlife in our area through fun games and nature awareness activities. Your will also be taught basic camping skills, canoeing, archery, songs, games and crafts.

22-23 -- Native American Indian Camp
Our camp is named after the Native American Indian Tribe that lived in its immediate area, the "TONKAWAS". This camp will explore, through lots of fun activities, this particular tribe along with other plains Indians. Let us take a look at their lifestyle. You will get to sleep in our real Tipis and learn how to set them up.

26 --  Primitive Survival Skills Day Camp
At any time, anywhere, things can go wrong and you might find yourself in a survival situation. During the course of the five workshop day camps you will have hands on learning that will keep you alive.  You are welcome to come to just one class if you like, just sign up for that day to attend. Also, you are welcome to make up a class you might have missed in your session.



APRIL 2014
5-6-- Backpacking Camp
Class Content:
Hazards one may encounter in nature; Backwoods basic first aid; Protecting your feet; Water purification methods; Modern Survival Kit; Types of Equipment; How to distribute the weight in your pack; Orienteering course to learn how to use a compass; Understanding Maps; Setting up a backpackers camp; Meal preparations out of your pack; Edible plant nibbles; Bear bags; No trace camping

All classes have a minimum number of registrants. So bring your friends and tell everyone you know.

9-- Nature Awareness Day Camp
Come for a Fun Day of Outdoor Learning about the plants and animals in your own backyard in the North Texas area. Become comfortable and knowledgeable in your own environment. We need at least 12 children to run a camp and limit it to 30, so register early to reserve your places.


12-13 -- Native American Indian Camp
Our camp is named after the Native American Indian Tribe that lived in its immediate area, the "TONKAWAS". This camp will explore, through lots of fun activities, this particular tribe along with other plains Indians. Let us take a look at their lifestyle. You will get to sleep in our real Tipis and learn how to set them up.

All classes have a minimum number of registrants. So bring your friends and tell everyone you know.

16 --  Primitive Survival Skills Day Camp
At any time, anywhere, things can go wrong and you might find yourself in a survival situation. During the course of the five workshop day camps you will have hands on learning that will keep you alive.  You are welcome to come to just one class if you like, just sign up for that day to attend. Also, you are welcome to make up a class you might have missed in your session.

19 --  Horsemanship Day Camp
This class is for all of you who wish they had a horse. You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size. Wear your old blue jeans and boots, if you happen to have them. You will get a chance to do some basic riding. Make sure to bring suncreen and drinking water for sunny days.

26 --  Spring Festival


For More Information: 940-440-8382 or Click Here to email
http://www.camptonkawatexas.com      

Discount:  Camp Tonkawa is offering HEART of Texas members a  10% discount for HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card.  Offer not valid in conjunction with semester discount rates for Nature Awareness Camps.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
35.  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.

Hours:  Open Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Admission:
 
$15 for adults
$12 for seniors (65+)
$10 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children under 3 years
Senior Citizen Thursday Discount:  Seniors get in for just $5 with photo ID and can receive 20% discount at gift shop.
   
Onsite parking:                                                                
$10 per vehicle                                                     
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

http://www.dallasarboretum.org    


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36.  FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS

Location:  9601 Fossil Ridge Road
                Fort Worth, TX 76135
Located on the northwest side of Fort Worth, four miles west of I-820 on Jacksboro Hwy (TX Hwy 199), just inside the city limits of Fort Worth.

Admission: $5 ages 13+; $2 ages 3-12; under 3 free; $3 Seniors (65+)
$1 discount per person with military ID

For More Information:    817-392-7410  

Refuge Hours:  8am-5pm daily
Hardwicke Interpretive Center:
9am-4:30pm daily

Programs
MAR 1 -- Reptiles Emerging
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
After months of very little activity, reptiles are beginning to emerge and start feasting. Come and learn about some ofthe reptiles that may be emerging and how they are adapted for everyday survival. 

MAR 2 -- Greenhouse Green Thumbs
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
Our Restoration Greenhouse & Seed Collection Program is growing by leaps and bounds and we could use help to expand our native plant inventory. If you’d like to be a part of this exciting, growing program, come out to help us and learn more about propagating native plants! Meet at the Hardwicke Interpretive Center and we will drive to the greenhouse. Please dress for weather, bring gloves, hat and drinking water.

MAR 8 -- Animal Ambassadors
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
In addition to staff and volunteers, the Nature Center employs Animal Ambassadors to help us educate young andold about native Texas wildlife. Come learn about our scaly, finned, and shelled coworkers and watch them eat their “paychecks” at feeding time.
For all ages.
 

MAR 9 -- Painting on Location, Watercolor Tips for Nature Sketches
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
Using simple sketching and watercolor techniques come join us and create
artwork while relaxing in nature. A demonstration of this media will quickly get you started exploring a fun way to record imagery in a sketchbook.
If you have these please bring: a sketchbook, pencil, eraser, school grade watercolor paint and a lidded container for water. Apointed #10 paintbrush makes it easy to apply color. Paper, a few brushes, paint and other supplies will be available for use. Art experience helpful but is not necessary. Wear weather appropriate clothing and be prepared for a short walk.


MAR 14 -- Early Birds
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission) PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Come and join a naturalist as we try to wake up with the birds. We will take a leisurely hike around the Nature
Center to see if we can find birds beginningtheir day. This is the best time of the day to see our fine feathered friends. Bring your binoculars and cameras to enhance your experience.


MAR 15 -- Traces of Animals
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
Much of our wildlife is found mainly at night. However, being at the right place at the right time can provide you with an opportunity to see some of our nocturnal critters. If a sighting is not in order, then perhaps the evidence of their wanderings can be spotted.
Join us as we seek out evidence of their existence which they left behind.

MAR 16 -- Evergreen vs. Deciduous
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
As you hike throughout the Nature Center, you can point out the deciduous trees without their leaves. You will
also find some that have leaves. Join us as we discuss why some trees are still green and the rest are not. 

MAR 22 -- Knee High Naturalists
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
If you are “knee high to a grasshopper” and love to learn about the outdoors, then you are a Knee High Naturalist. Join us for an afternoon of fun as we learn about birds from your backyard and beyond.
This program is geared for children ages 6-9
 

MAR 23 -- Buds and Scales
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
With days getting longer and warmer, plants are starting to bud. Hike with us as we look at trees getting ready for spring. We will look at limbs and try to determine their age.


MAR 30 -- Is Spring Here Yet?
Cost:
FREE (with paid admission)
It might appear quiet and uneventful in early spring, but things are moving and hustling to get ready. Join us as we hike the Refuge in view of early blooming wildflowers, migratory birds, and hatching insects. Discover on your own if spring is here yet. 


SATURDAYS, Naturalist-Led Hikes

10am-Noon
Cost: FREE (with paid admission).
Join a naturalist for a leisurely hike on the trails of the FWNC&R. Hikes feature current natural history events such as blooming wildflowers, commonly seen insects, birds, other animals and current projects on the Refuge. Bring water and dress for the weather
MAXIMUM 15 participants. FIRST COME, FIRST SERVED

THURSDAY & SATURDAYS, Natural Guard Volunteer
9am-Noon
Cost:
Free
Individuals can help keep the Nature Center beautiful by volunteering for the Natural Guard. Volunteers assist Refuge staff in trail maintenance, brush clearing, bridge building and much more. Please call 817-392-7410 for information on projects and meeting places.


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
37.  FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDENS PROGRAMS

YEAR ROUND -- Green Thumb Club
Little Diggers -- Age 4 by class date
Green Thumb Club Juniors -- Grades K-2
Green Thumb Club -- Grades 3-5
Details: Green Thumb Club provides children the opportunity to learn more about the natural world around them. We use the Fort Worth Botanic Garden as a living laboratory for students to explore topics such as native plant studies, pollination, tree structure, climate change, and more.
For more information: Click here


For more information about the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens: call 817-871-7686


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38. FORT WORTH ZOO HOME SCHOOL CLASSES


2014 Classes

Time:  9:30am-11:30am
Cost: $25/student
Ages 6-12; $50/student Ages 13-15 
Includes snack, Interactive Lab (For Ages 13-15), live animal presentation,
and admission to the Zoo on class day.
Class Schedule:  See listing below for monthly class themes
To Register:  Click Here
Location:  Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110
For more information: Click here

Ages 6-8
Mar 4 & 18 -- Jumpers - Hop on over and join us for a class all about animals that bounce and leap.
Apr 8 & 22 -- Climbers – Look up to discover a few critters with a different point of view.
May 6 & 20 -- Flyers – Soar to new heights with some high-flying friends.


Ages 9-12

Mar 4 & 18 -- Teeth - Take a bite out of learning and explore animal dentition.
Apr 8 & 22 -- Wings – Find out the ups and downs of aerodynamic animals.
May 6 & 20 -- Tails – Learn about the tail end of things.


Ages 13-15

Mar 18 -- Zookeeper Lab - Spend some time with a Fort Worth Zoo zookeeper and explore a few of their responsibilities.
Apr 22 -- Nutrition Lab – Discuss animal nutrition and take a tour of the commissary.
May 20 -- Zoo Photography Lab – Perfect your photography skills with this beginner class. Bring your own camera!


HOMESCHOOL DAY
Date: March 27, 2014
Cost: Children 3-12yrs: $4;  Adults 13+: $6;  Children 2 and under are free.
Details: All home-schooled children and their families are invited to a fun-filled educational day in the wilds of the Zoo. Learn amazing facts from our zookeepers at more than 20 Wild Encounters and enjoy asking Zoo staff your best animal questions around the Zoo’s world-class exhibits!


TEXAS NATURE TRADERS
Details: Located in Texas Wild! near the wishing well, the Zoo’s newest building is the home base for many Texas-based education programs, primarily the Zoo’s latest offering, Texas Nature Traders. This formalized program encourages kids (age 3 and older) to explore the outdoors and bring to the building fossils, rocks, bones, plants and other artifacts in exchange for points. Traders can redeem points (or save them for future use) for items in the Nature Trader inventory. Texas Nature Traders operates seven days a week, opening at 11 a.m. and closing one hour before the Zoo closes. Stop by to look around, ask questions and become a nature trader!



SAFARI SAM
Details: Sam is a fictional character that the Zoo has created to teach wildlife biology and conservation lessons to students, mostly 3rd through 5th grade. Sam posts a “brain teaser” every Monday, the brain teaser answer on Tuesday, a “spotlight” blog on Wednesday (usually telling a specific animal’s conservation story), teacher resource on Thursday and occasionally an applicable video on Friday. Safari Sam is busy! 

Safari Sam's “Nature Finders Contest”
Get kids outside on a nature journaling activity!
For more information: click here 
Visit Safari Sam's Blog at:  Click Here

Discount:  The Fort Worth Zoo is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid ID card) a free Ft. Worth drawstring backpack when they register for Spring Zoo Classes (classes are monthly, January through May).  Offer not valid in conjunction with semester discount rates for Nature Awareness Camps.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
39.  FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS

MAR 18 -- Texas and Her Wildlife
Time:  
10am-4pm
Cost:  $23/participant
Details:
(Class + Tour) We will do a sweeping survey of the habitats and wildlife from the Red River to the Rio Grande, from Big Bend to Caddo Lake! We will look at interactions between species, what is causing species to become endangered and what we can do about it.
To Register, Call: 254-897-2960

MAR 31 -- Texas Critters and the Story of Red
Time:  
10am-4pm
Cost:  $23/participant
Details:
(Class + Tour) In this case, ‘critters’ means arthropods – arachnids (spiders, scorpions and such), insects and more. Many are helpful; a few are deadly; all are beautiful. One Texas insect is the star of an amazing story… ‘The Story of Red!’ Find this insect in the wild, then dye a bandana or T-shirt with dye from this insect.

To Register, Call: 254-897-2960



APR 1 -- Fossil Dig
Time:  
10am-4pm
Cost:  $23/participant
Details:
(Class/Dig + Tour) This place used to be under a whole lot of water – and a lot of living things left a lot of exciting evidence - buried in rock - that they used to live here! Find and identify fossils, understand them and how they got here, even take two home!
To Register, Call: 254-897-2960


APR 14 -- Speed on the Savanna
Time:  
10am-4pm
Cost:  $23/participant
Details:
(Class + Tour) This amazing cat is designed for maximum speed! That comes with great advantages, as well as some disadvantages. Come learn about, see and fall in love with our amazing cats!
To Register, Call: 254-897-2960




For more information about homeschool events, click here


In addition to their scheduled homeschool events, Fossil Rim offers their faculty, teachers, and curriculum for privately-scheduled events. For more information, please click here or call 254-897-2960 and ask for the Homeschool coordinator. 


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
40. 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 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m.
Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m.; Mondays at 4 p.m.


Christian Horsemanship
Ages 4-18

Cost:  
$25/child
Class Length:  1 hour, 15 min.
Details:  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:  
Teaches children about God's creation in an outdoor spiritual setting.  Activities include:  day hikes, fishing, flying kites, and much more!  Outdoor Adventure classes focus on: Science in the Outdoors, Servant Leadership, Self Expression, Self Reflection and Silent Retreats.

Group rates available. Please call for details.

Location:  
4150 Keller-Haslet Road
                Keller, TX  76248
For More Information:  817-925-1982 or click here to email



Discount:  Haven's Horses is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid Family ID card) 50% off their first ride! You must show your card to be eligible for this discount!
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://heartoftex.org/resources/membership  


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

41.  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.


Please note that you will need to submit a medical record form including immunization history to be able to participate in their programs.

Fall 2013 & Spring 2014 CLASS --REGISTER NOW!
Click here for information

For more information: Click Here to send an email
                                  972-562-5566 x237
                                                       
Location:  One Nature Place
                McKinney, TX  75069
               
www.heardmuseum.org


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42.  HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
 
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday–Sunday 9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Preschool Programs:
Fun on the Farm: Ages 2-5

Cost: $10 for 1 Adult/1 Child Combo;  $5 additional child;  $3 additional adult
Registration Required
To Register and for More Information:  972-881-0140.

Events:
MAR 7 -- Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss!
Time:
10:30am-Noon
Join us for this special day to celebrate the birthday of Dr. Seuss and Read across America. Children learn through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride.
Online Registration Closes Mar 5: Register Here


MAR 21 -- Stone Soup
Time:
10:30am-Noon
Children will learn about sharing when we make our own special version of stone soup. Children learn through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride.
Online Registration Closes Mar 19: Register Here



Docent-Led Tours
Time:  1:30 p.m. Tues-Sun. (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

Time:  9:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Tues–Sun
Tour the grounds only.  No access to the Farrell-Wilson house or 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 (PreK- 3) --
Based on the book, "Farmer Duck" by Martin Waddell and Helen Oxenbury. We begin the tour reading aloud to the group. We discuss chores; comparing turn-of-the century chores with modern chores. Feeding chickens, washing dishes in washtubs, and even milking Buttermilk, our incredible milking cow. Each activity teaches a very important lesson.

Tag-Along Tom (Grades 1-4) -- Loosely based on Mark Twain’s, "The Adventures of Tom Sawyer." Visitors tour the Heritage Farmstead Museum with Tom’s playful character in mind. Children experience the HFM as if it were the farm young Tom grew up on with his Aunt Polly. Children learn of all the chores that were expected of them. Visitors will beat rugs, enter the storm cellar, “whitewash” a garden fence, plant seeds, take a walk to the creek and so much more. They will find jump ropes, beanbags, skipping rocks and a pirate ship along the way.

Blackland Prairie Tour  (Grades 2-5) -- The tour is led by volunteer docents and includes the historic Farrell Wilson House as well as the complete 4 acre site. Visitors experience and interpret life on the Blackland Prairie with a series of “hands-on” activities which could include beating rugs, feeding chickens, milking our Incredible Milking Cow, washing clothes, and visiting a turn of the century school house to scrutinize replica artifacts.

Sarah Plain and Tall (Grades 3-5) -- The tour captures the theme of Patricia MacLachlan’s wonderful story about a widowed Midwestern farmer with two children who places a newspaper ad for a wife. A woman from Maine named Sarah answers the ad. The widower and his children are worried she will miss her home too much and leave them. In the end Sarah convinces them that while she would always miss her old home, she would miss them more. Visitors experience the HFM as if it were the farm where Caleb and Anna are living somewhere on the Kansas Prairie. Children try charcoal or pencil drawing, see and discuss different modes of transportation, visit the ram barn and learn about farm animals upclose; take a walk down to Pitman Creek; play turn of the century games and visit the replica turn-of-the century school house.


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.

For Registration and Other Information:   972-881-0140 or Click Here                                                   
           
Location:      Heritage Farmstead Museum
                    1900 West 15th Street
                    Plano, TX

Discount:  Heritage Farmstead Museum is offering HEART of Texas members a $1 off the adult regular admission price (up to 4 people) and .50 cents off child's regular admission, good for either the 1:30 p.m. Historic Farrell-Wilson house tour or for the following special events: Harvest Festival, Lantern Light, Spring Festival.   
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42.  LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING AREA

Events and Activities:
MAR 1 -- Kids' Fishing Day
Time:
10am-Noon
Details: Children 7 and up can learn to fish from expert instructors at the
Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area. Children must be accompanied by an adult.
LLELA will provide all necessary gear, but bring your own if you plan to stay and fish after the workshop.
Cost: Entrance fee + additional $2 per child
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or click here to email



MAR 2 -- Intro to Kayaking on McWhorter Creek
Time:
2-4pm (Ages 7 and up)
Details: LLELA staff is leading kayak tours on McWhorter Creek this spring.
All skill levels are welcome; paddlers receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided. Don’t delay in registering; these trips fill up quickly.
Cost: $15/person plus $5 gate fee
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or
click here to email

MAR 7 -- Gather Around the Campfire

Time: 6:30-8:30pm
Details:  Campfires S’mores, songs, stories, and more. Save your spot by the fire!
Cost: $5 person + $5 Admission, ages 5 years and up.
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or click here to email

MAR 8 -- Bird Walk
Time: 7:30am
Details:  No Registration is Necesary
For Details, Contact: 972-219-3930 or click here to email


MAR 8 -- Nature Walk
Time: 10am
Details:  No Registration is Necesary
For Details, Contact: 972-219-3930 or click here to email


MAR 22 -- Night Hike
Time: 7:30-9:30pm
Details:  Follow our trail guides on a moonlit stroll down the Redbud Trail. Coyotes howling, owls
hooting, and other night sounds will provide an out-of-the-ordinary hiking experience.
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or click here to email


MAR 23 -- Intro to Kayaking on McWhorter Creek
Time:
9-11am (Ages 7 and up)
Details: LLELA staff is leading kayak tours on McWhorter Creek this spring.
All skill levels are welcome; paddlers receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided. Don’t delay in registering; these trips fill up quickly.
Cost: $15/person plus $5 gate fee
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or
click here to email

MAR 29 -- Intro to Kayaking on McWhorter Creek
Time:
2-4pm (Ages 7 and up)
Details: LLELA staff is leading kayak tours on McWhorter Creek this spring.
All skill levels are welcome; paddlers receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided. Don’t delay in registering; these trips fill up quickly.
Cost: $15/person plus $5 gate fee
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or
click here to email

MAR 29 -- Stars on the Prairie
Time:
7:30-9:30pm
Details: Explore the night sky with Clyde Camp, an amateur astronomer with over 30 years of experience
Cost: $10/person
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or
click here to email




HOMESCHOOL NATURAL SCIENCE CLASSES:

Classes are for students K-8th grade.

Time:
10am-1pm
Cost:
$12 per class, or enroll your child in four classes for $40
Details: Students in each class will participate in hands-on outdoor activities related to the day's theme. Parents may choose to attend with their students, or may drop the student off after submitting a medical release form.
Younger siblings are welcome, but must be supervised by a parent during class time.
Each student should bring a water bottle and sack lunch and wear closed-toe shoes with long pants.
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or click here to email


Upcoming Classes:

K-2nd grade
-- North Texas: Home Sweet Home
Settlers traveled long distances to live in North Texas. What made our area so special?
We'll take a look at our wetlands, prairies, and forests today, and talk about how they might have looked different when the settlers first arrived. We'll end with a visit to the past by spending a day at our log cabin built in 1869.

Each class will include as hands-on activity, story time, and a nature walk.
Class Dates:
April 3:
Exploring our Watery World
April 24: What is a Prairie?
May 8:
Into the Forest
May 29 Window on the Past


3rd-8th grade -- North Texas Ecosystems
If you'd visited Denton County 150 years ago, what would you have seen?
What pieces of long-ago remain, and what is different? We'll examine life in Denton County at a moment of great change, then take a look at our native ecosystems, past and present.

Each class includes discussion, a nature walk or field study, hands-on activites, and more.
Seperate sessions for 3rd-5th and 6th-8th graders (subject to minimum enrollment).
Class Dates:
April 3:
Window on the Past (Minor-Porter Log House and early Lewisville)
April 24: Acquatic Ecosystems
May 8:
Prairie Primer
May 29 Into the Forst


Discount:
  HEART of Texas members (with valid ID card) receive $1 per child discount.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42.  NASH FARM -- GRAPEVINE TX

Nash Farm, circa 1859, is the oldest operating farmstead in Tarrant County. Through interpretive programs, events and exhibits, Nash Farm educates the community about the heritage and importance of the Grapevine Prairie and Grapevine’s pivotal role in the development of North Texas.

UPCOMING EVENTS


MARCH 8  -- Blessed are the Cheese Makers
Time: 
10am-12pm
Admission: 15$ per person
Details: Learn how to make and age a wonderful variety of farmhouse cheese. This workshop offers you the opportunity to get hands-on experience with making cheese and also learn how it can be aged for great flavor.
Pre-registration is required to attend the event.
This workshop is not available for all ages.
Click here to purchase tickets

MARCH 15  -- Tales at Twilight
Time:  
7pm-9pm
Admission: FREE
Details:
Family event with free popcorn & cider.


APRIL 12 -- Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Time: 
9:30am-12:30pm
Details: Open to the Public


APRIL 26
  -- Spring into Nash
Time: 
10am-2pm
Details: Experience heritage toys, kitchen gardening, cotton planting, FFA animals, tractor-drawn wagon rides, field cultivation, wood carving demonstrations, jump rope making, cooking demonstrations on a wood burning stove and blacksmith demonstrations.


FIRST FRIDAYS: Life Skills Demonstrations by Nash Farmhands
Cost: Tickets $3 per person.
Time:  10am-12pm
Details: Step back in time and join us. Daily life in late 19th century Texas required knowledge of a number of skills, methods and even recipes that will be demonstrated by Nash Farmhands. Each month features a different theme, so be sure to check the website for more information regarding the demonstrations and activities of that month. Help us preserve and protect our great heritage with First Fridays at the Farm. Demonstrations are on the first Friday of the month.

Location:  626 Ball Street, Grapevine, TX 76051
Contact: 817-410-3185
For more information: click here

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
43.  RIDE WITH PRIDE

Ride With Pride, Inc. Horsemanship School in Southlake specializes in teaching students ages 3 and older how to care for and ride a horse safely.  Ride With Pride, Inc. has been in operation since 1980.  They offer Western & English lessons, and their instructors are certified with the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). 

For Enrollment Information:  Click here to send an email or 817-481-2893

Discount:  Ride with Pride is offering HEART of Texas members (with a current HEART of Texas Family ID card) a 10% discount on tuition.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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
TBA
Time:
  10 a.m. (last tour begins at 4)

Admission:  $10/ages 13+; $8/ages 3-12 and Seniors 65+; children 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:
Click Here
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:  Click Here
940-686-4600 (main)
940-686-3715 (fax)


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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.


MAR 1 -- Butterfly House Discovery Tour
Time: 11am
Details: Join entomologist John Watts for a family friendly guided tour of the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium. Enjoy a behind the scenes look at these winged wonders. The tour is followed by our daily noon butterfly release! Included with admission.

Admission: $8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.

MAR 8
-- Garden Explorers Walk: Greenhouse Tour
Time: 11am
Details: Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of our greenhouse on this family friendly walk! It ends in time for the Butterfly Release talk at noon in our conservatory. Included with admission.

Admission: $8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.

MAR 10-14 -- Spring Break Safari Week
Time: 11am- 3pm daily
Details: Get out of the house and into the gardens with your family during Spring Break. Enjoy discovery-themed family friendly activities:
Monarch and Mockingbird Monday
Creepy Crawly Tuesday
Wacky Water Wednesday
Green in the City Thursday
Fur & Fangs Friday
Included with admission.

Admission: $8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.



APR 5
-- Butterfly House Discovery Tour
Time: 11am
Details: Join us for a family friendly guided tour of the Butterfly House. Included with admission.

Admission: $8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.

APR 12 -- Garden Explorers Walk: First Flowers
Time: 11am
Details: Get out in the garden on this family friendly walk! Search for early spring blooms. It ends in time for you to catch the Butterfly Release talk at noon in our conservatory. Included with admission.

Admission: $8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.


Regular Admission & Hours:
$8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.
Each Tuesday:  Gardens are open for free (butterfly house admission is regular admission price)
Hours:  Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.  Last ticket to Butterfly House sold at 4:45 p.m.
For More info:  214-428-7476 ext. 341 or Click Here
Location:
3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Fair Park.
Fair Park is
two miles east of downtown Dallas just south of Interstate 30.

Children's Outdoor Education Programs:
Cost:  $5/person;  $60 minimum fee per program
Availability:  Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
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)



Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
 
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
46.  TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES

ATHENS, TX

Location: 14225 FM 316, Eustace, TX 75124
903-425-2332

Things to do:
Camping, picnicking, boating, hiking

For upcoming events:
click here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CEDAR HILL, TX

Location: 1570 West FM 1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104
972-291-3900

Things to Do:
Camping, Mountain Biking, Birdwatching, Picnicking, Fishing, Swimming beach, Playgrounds, Boating

For upcoming events:
click here

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DENTON, TX

Location:  Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Isle Du Bois Unit:
100 PW 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
940-686-2148

Johnson Branch Unit
100 PW 4153, Valley View, TX 76272
940-637-2294

Things to Do: picnicking, camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, rollerblading, swimming on a beach area (unsupervised), boating and fishing. Johnson Branch also offers backpacking

For upcoming events: click here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DENISON, TX

Location:  50 Park Road 20, Denison, TX 75020
903-465-1956

For upcoming events: click here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JACKSBORO, TX -- FORT RICHARDSON STATE PARK

Location: 228 State Park Road 61, Jacksboro, TX 76458

940-567-3506

For upcoming events: click here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINERAL WELLS, TX -- Lake Mineral Wells State Park 

Location:  100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067

940-328-1171

For upcoming events:
click here

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TYLER, TX -- Tyler State Park

Location:  789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX 75706

903-597-5338

For upcoming events: click here

Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WILLS POINT, TX -- Lake Tawakoni State Park

Location:  10822 FM 2475, Wills Point, TX 75169

For upcoming events, click here


Back to NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Free TPWD Coloring and Activity Books to Download: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/learning/color/

Back to NATURE CENTERS & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS

Back to the top

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

48.  PERFORMANCES AT ARTISAN THEATER IN HURST

Artisan Center Theater holds quality, "in the round" performances that are family-friendly, entertaining, and affordable!  The theater's full-length stage productions include musicals, comedies, and family dramas which are entertaining, as well as family-friendly. Past performances have included such classics as Godspell, Cheaper By the Dozen, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Sound of Music.

Artie's Playhouse, their Interactive Children's Theater, offers original, fun-for-all-ages productions featuring familiar characters and themes, but with fresh twists that keep it entertaining and exciting for parents as well as children. Each story has its own character focus, which is reinforced throughout the play.
 The "Artie's Playhouse" productions are about 30-45 minutes long, and include lots of audience participation to hold the interest of even the youngest child in the family.

Location:  420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information:  Click Here

Artie’s Children’s Playhouse Productions:
Cost: $5/Children;  $7/Adults
Showtimes: Shows are Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10 am; Fridays at 5pm.


MAR 8 - APR 12 -- Peter Pan Jr  
Details: Wendy Darling loves to tell stories to her brothers, Michael and John. But when her father announces she must move out of the nursery, Peter Pan comes to visit the children and whisks them away to Never Land. Their adventure introduces them to the Lost Boys, Mermaids, Indians and even the infamous pirate, Captain Hook! Based on the Disney film and J.M. Barrie’s enchanting play, Disney’s Peter Pan JR. is a modern version of the timeless tale about a boy who wouldn’t grow up with no flying required!
For more information: Click here


APR 19 - May 17 -- My Son Pinocchio Jr  
Details: In DISNEY’S MY SON PINOCCHIO JR., the classic tale of toymaker Geppetto’s little wooden puppet is given new life. This new musical, which retells the classic Disney story from Geppetto’s perspective, features the beloved classic songs “When You Wish Upon a Star” and “I’ve Got No Strings,” alongside a host of new songs by Oscar- and Grammy Award-winner and master melodist Stephen Schwartz, tackling timely issues about what it means to be “the perfect child” – and what it means to be “a real father.”
For more information: Click here



Artisan Main Stage Productions:

Showtimes:
Mon & Tues: 7:30 p.m.;  Thurs/Fri: 7:30;  Sat: 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:
Mon, Tues, Thurs: $12/Adults; $12/Students & Seniors (60+); $7/Ages 12 and under
            Fri & Sat: $16.00/Adults; $14/Students & Seniors (60+); $9/Ages 12 and under.

MAR 7 - APR 10 -- The Scarlet Pimpernel
Details:It is Paris, May of 1794, the bloody peak of the French Revolution, and the beautiful French actress, Marguerite St. Just, marries an Englishman, Sir Percival Blakeney.  Chauvelin, her former sweetheart and a high-ranking revolutionary official, is furious.  Before she leaves for England he blackmails her into giving him secret information that sends many to their death via guillotine. When Percy learns his bride was responsible for these deaths and is a possible spy, he puts up an emotional wall against her.  He then gathers his close friends together to become The League of the Scarlet Pimpernel and work through disguise and diversion to save the lives of as many innocents as they can.
For more information: Click here


APR 18 - May 10  -- Lost In Yonkers
Details: Considered one of Simon’s comic masterpieces, there are moments in this play when you will experience a new kind of laughter – the silent kind that doesn’t explode into a laugh, but just goes straight into your heart.
For more information: Click here




Artisan Theater can come to you!!!
For more information about how to schedule a performance at your location, contact the theater at 817-284-1200. They can perform for events, birthday parties, church functions, and more!!! Bring their family-friendly, entertaining shows to your front door!! Very reasonable prices!

SPRING 2014 ACTING, DANCE, AND VOICE CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS:
For more information:
Click here

To Register for classes or for more information:  817-929-0852 or click here to email

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
49.  BREITLING YOUTH THEATER

Performances:
Cost:
Advance tickets are $8 (add $1 at the door). Children 3 and under are free.
Performance Location:  
The Plaza Theater, 521 West State Street, Garland, TX 75040

Auditions & Classes:
Be an Extra (non-speaking part) in Narnia: The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe
– Nov 5 - Dec 14 (no class the week of Thanksgiving)
– Play ogres, cyclops, gorillas, wolves, voxes, fauns, dogs in the big battle
– Ages 4-19/No experience necessary
– Have fun, learn, gain confidence
– $50 plus costume fee
– Or work on the tech crew!

Discount:  Breitling Youth Theater is offering $10 off their annual family registration fee of $20 to HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card. 
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

Breitling Youth Theater is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing theater opportunities to children ages 2-19 in the North Texas area.  Whether your child is attending one of our Acting Workshops, or particpating in one of our productions, they will have fun, learn, and create lasting friendships!
 
Location:  303 Main St, Garland, TX  75040


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50.  CANTARE PERFORMANCE CHOIR IN SOUTHLAKE

Contare is an auditioned choir available for exception 3rd-12th grade singers in the NE Tarrant County are. Previous experience is not necessary; however, an audition is required.
 Auditions are by appointment only.

Location:  The choir rehearses at the White's Chapel United Methodist Church in Southlake, TX.
Rehearsals are Thursdays from 5:45pm to 7pm, with additional rehearsals leading up to performances.
For More Information:  Click Here
To request an audition:  Click Here

Discount:  Cantare Performance Choir is offering HEART of Texas members (with calid ID card) a $15 discount off annual tuition.  
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
50.  THEATER PERFORMANCES AT CASA MANANA CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE

For over 40 years, Casa Manana's Children's Playhouse has introduced children of all ages to the magic of live theatre.  This tradition continues as Casa Manana's Children's Playhouse proudly presents:


MARCH 28 - APRIL 13 -- How I Became a Pirate


APRIL 25-MAY 18 -- Peter Pan


Order Season Tickets!
Order a 5-Show Season Ticket package to secure GREAT SEATS for these fantastic, family fun productions at Casa Manana Theatre. 
For More Information:  Call 817-332-2272  

Location:  3101 West Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Box Office: 817-332-2272
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-4pm;  Saturday 12pm-5pm;  Sunday and Monday Closed
Open one hour prior to every show

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
51.  PERFORMANCES AT CATS THEATER IN ARLINGTON


CATS PRESENTS:

HOMESCHOOL CLASSES

Intermediate Acting: Ages 10-11
Time:
Wednesday: 1:00pm-1:55pm
Details:  
A creative imagination experience!  Every child will engage in imagination, vocalization, and movement activities that will prepare them for the stage. They will learn how to act out favorite stories, learn improvisation techniques, and use their bodies and voices to become different characters! Basic stage and blocking direction and an understanding of theatre terminology will help the young actors explore their creative process.
 
Advanced Acting: Age 12+
Time:
Wednesday: 12:00pm-12:55pm
Details: Think like an Actor! The actors learn how to implement an analysis through improvisation-based exercises and scene work. The focus is on how to simplify acting and find the parallels between behavior in real life and behavior on the stage. As the year progresses, students will have identified a specific and repeatable set of skills, which can be used to approach any scene work they perform.
 

For More Information:
Click Here

Location:  1100 West Randol Mill Road
                Arlington, TX  76012


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
52.  THE COTTAGE THEATER – CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education’s Cottage Theater Presents:

Upcoming Performances:
MARCH 28-APRIL 6 -- The Sound of Music!  A Musical
An exalted ex-military man in Austria takes on a new governess, Maria, a nun too free spirited for any convent, to look after his over-disciplined children. The rebellious children first reject Maria then learn to love her because Maria was able to intro-duce art and freedom to the youth-deprived children and eventually their father as well. Captain Von Trapp does not agree with Austria's position in the war, and he and his family must flee from the Nazis who want to tear his family apart, newly invigorated with love and joy thanks to Maria.

JUNE 6-JUNE 14 -- Cheaper By the Dozen
The charming story of a family in the 1920s with 12 children and an efficiency engineer as the father. Based on the 1950s film.

To purchase tickets: Call 817-281-2293

Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas members a 20% dicount off all show tickets for HEART of Texas members (with valid ID Card).  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
53.  DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

2013-2014 Season:
(Please note that not all productions may be suitable for all audiences.)  

MAR 7- 30 -- Beauty and the Beast
A young girl, a beast, a rose, a curse. Can love break the spell?  See the story you know told as you’ve never seen it before! Pure joy!


APR 25 - JUN 1 -- Charlotte's Web  
The best-loved children’s story of all time and winner of The Newbery Honor Medal!  Discover the true meaning of friendship and life’s everyday miracles. Get caught in Charlotte's web to save Wilbur, the “radiant” and “humble” pig, and make friends once again with all his loveable barnyard neighbors.



Box Office Hours
9am to 5 p.m., Monday–Friday
Ticket Sales are subject to availability.
Reservations are recommended and require prepayment with either
Cash, Check, Mastercard,Visa, or Amex.
Coupons and discount offers must be arranged in advance with the box office and may be suspended at any time.

Student Matinees: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Time: 10 a.m.
Cost:  $7.50/person for groups of 10 or more $7.50 per person (1 FREE chaperone per 20 student tickets)
Deposit required with reservation
Balance due SIX WEEKS before performance.
All plays, locations, dates and times are subject to change.
To Make Reservation:  Call 214-219-2049 or click here to email

Locations:  (refer to individual production to determine location)
               
 Rosewood Center for Family Arts
                 5938 Skillman Street
               
                 El Centro College Theater
                 801 N. Main St.
               


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54.  DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCES

GENERAL DSO INFORMATION
Admission:  $6/person (payment must be received with all reservations)
Parking:  $6 per car in the Arts District Parking Garage
Please arrive at least 30 minutes before concert time.
Concerts last approximately 45 minutes.
Special Students at the Symphony Program: Free seats are available to mentally and physically challenged students.  To participate, complete the appropriate information on the reservation form.
To Reserve Tickets:  Click Here or call 214-871--4006.  Mention that you saw their ad in the HEART of Texas newsletter when you contact them.

Only reservations confirmed in advance can be seated.  No walk-ins.

Concert Location:  Meyerson Symphony Center
                            2301 Flora Street
                            Dallas, TX  75201
                            (intersection of Pearl & Flora Street in the heart of the Downtown Dallas Arts District)
For Directions:  Click Here

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
55.  FORT WORTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA YOUNG PERSON'S CONCERTS


Orders for Fewer than 20 Seats:  
Must be paid in advance.
Orders for 20 or More:  May be reserved without advance payment.
Approximately one month before the concert, you will receive a notice confirming the number of seats you have ordered and the total amount due (if applicable). If the final number of seats needed for the concert is different from that listed on the notice, please call with a corrected number immediately upon receiving the confirmation. Full payment is due two weeks before the concert date for groups of 20 or more.
Absolutely NO refunds for changes in reservation numbers after this date.
Special Note for Groups of 20 or More:   When you reserve a seat, that seat is held for you and not sold to another individual until you release it. Therefore, we ask you to verify the actual number of seats needed before making concert reservations. We understand that you may need to adjust the number of reserved seats before the payment due date, and those emergencies may cause cancellations. However, the privilege of reserving seats without advance payment may be revoked if your organization cancels more than 20% of its total reserved seats or fails to attend a concert for which it has reserved seats. 
Children Under Age 3:  Because of the nature of the event, we request that children under age three not be brought to these concerts, particularly to the concerts at Bass Performance Hall. You must purchase a seat for each person to be admitted to a concert, regardless of age.

For Questions:  Click Here to send an e-mail message 817-665-6500.

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
54.  GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA

MAY 18 -- Grand Finale
Time: 7:30pm
Location:  Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, TX  75201
(at the intersection of Pearl & Flora St. in the heart of Downtown Dallas Arts District)
Cost: $10/Dress Circle;  $20/Orchestra Floor
;  $25/Orchestra Terrace; $40/Loge Tickets
Details:  Join us for the final concert of the 2013 – 2014 season!
Featured on this program will be:
    Dvorak’s Slavonic Dance No. 8 (with the winner of the GDYO Student Conductor Competition)
    Bernstein’s Three Dance Episodes from “On the Town”
    Williams’ Escapade from “Catch me if you can” with saxophone soloist
    Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 5.
Pre-concert activities include a catered dinner and silent auction. Come celebrate the end of a great year!
To Purchase Tickets Online:  Click Here  (Loge Tickets not available online)
To Purchase Tickets By Phone:  214-528-7747, Mon-Fri; 9am-5pm
We accept Visa, Mastercard, cash, or checks made out to "GDYO". 
You may request your tickets to be mailed or placed under your name at Will Call.
Tickets also available for purchase on the day of the concert.

For Directions and Seating Chart:  Click Here



GDYO Subscription Tickets: $24-$100

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
56.  PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES


Location:  Plano Children’s Theater, 1301 Custer Road, Plano, TX 75075
Website:  www.planochildrenstheatre.com

NOTE:  Some productions may not be appropriate for children.  Each family is encouraged to exercise discretion when considering  to allow your children/family to view these productions.  

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
57.  TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCES

The Texas Ballet Theater is once again partnering with HEART of Texas to offer our newsletter readers (that's you!) and other homeschoolers special ticket pricing during select performances. The dates and times of these select performances are listed below.  You can purchase tickets as a group or as a family -- all homeschoolers can enjoy these great discounts.  You do not have to be a member of HEART of Texas or any other home school support group, but you must mention HEART of Texas when you call.  Also, you must speak with Jana Landin when you call or email (see below) for ticket information.

Tickets are sold on a first-come, first served basis, so please reserve your tickets as soon as possible to ensure the best section seating available during our select performances.  All tickets, even group tickets, must be paid for up front.  Please be aware that all sales are final. 

Please Note:  Some performances may not be appropriate for all audiences.  Please use your own judgment when considering allowing your children/family to view these productions.

             

2013-2014 SEASON 

FEBRUARY 28-MARCH 2 -- Serenade & Gloria
HEART of Texas Discount Day (30% Discount):  MARCH 1 - For 2pm Show Only
Choreographer Sir Kenneth MacMillan uses Francis Poulenc's gorgeous choral score to create a haunting tribute to World War I in Gloria. Inspired by Vera Brittain's autobiography, Testament of Youth, which describes how her life changed during World War I, MacMillan began to create a piece in honor of his father who was killed in the Battle of the Somme. The men portray soldiers and the women ghosts, as they illustrate the devastation of war and the memory of happier times. Gloria's depiction of the futility of war is as relevant today as it was for its premiere in 1980.

Serenade
The flowing blue skirts of Serenade exemplify beauty and innocence in what George Balanchine called "a dance in the moonlight" that was inspired by the student dancers of the School of American Ballet. When Balanchine came in one day, a student was standing with her arm up, blocking her eyes from the sun, and he thought it was so beautiful that it became the opening pose. The movements are accompanied by Tchaikovsky's gorgeous Serenade for Strings in C. The composer claimed that the brilliant strings in the piece were "his favorite child," written from "inner compulsion from the heart." He also added, "I am terribly in love with this Serenade."

MAY 30 - JUNE 1 (2014) -- Swan Lake

HEART of Texas Discount Day (30% Discount):  MAY 31 at 2pm
Swan Lake's romance and beauty has mesmerized audiences for over 100 years. Always a crowd favorite, Swan Lake takes Russian folklore to tell the story of young Odette who is turned into a swan by the evil Von Rothbart. Despite her new physical form, Odette falls deeply in love with Prince Siegfried. At the Royal Ball, Prince Siegfried is fooled by Von Rothbart into believing the sorcerer's daughter, Odile, is his love Odette. He unknowingly professes his love for Odile, leaving Odette sick with heartbreak.  Texas Ballet Theater is thrilled to announce that the romantic Swan Lake will be accompanied by the Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra to celebrate Tchiakovsky's work and present this classical ballet at its best.

To Purchase Tickets By Phone:  Call Jana Landin at 877-828-9200, ext 101 or click here to email
You must mention HEART of Texas Home School Discount Program to get the discount.
Any homeschooler may take advantage of this program


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
57.  TEXAS BALLET THEATER DANCE SCHOOL -- DANCE CLASSES -- FORT WORTH

$50 Discount for HEART of Texas newsletter readers!
The Texas Ballet Theater School is offering our readers a $50 discount on registration if you mention HEART of Texas.

They currently offer classes during the day for 3 & 4 year olds, but if you have a group of at least 6 students who are close in age/ballet experience, they will try to put together a class for your students!

For more information:  Click here to email Ashley Friedman or 877-828-9200, ext 108


Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
58.  HOME SCHOOL DISCOUNT TICKETS TO DALLAS THEATER PERFORMANCES

Save 20% on regular priced tickets.
Location:  Music Hall at Fair Park

New season includes Cathy Rigby's PETER PAN, The Addams Family, and Mamma Mia!

Offer valid on Tues, Wed, Thurs, & Sun evening performances in price level 2-4
To Order Tickets Contact Susan Frederick at: Click here to email

Offer open to homeschoolers, friends and family. The TX State Fair show is The Addams Family. Free admission to the Fair with your theater ticket. Contact Susan Frederick for details on TAFFIE offers and how to order. Unlike some of the other theater offers, DSM gives us a different link each time so Susan will need to provide the correct link for the current offers. 

Back to PERFORMING ARTS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

59.  AMON CARTER EXHIBITS

The Carter houses one of the nation’s preeminent collections of American art, from works by the early nineteenth-century artist-explorers through those of the mid-twentieth-century modernists and up to the work of contemporary photographers. The museum also holds one of the most comprehensive collections of work by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

Museum Exhibits:
FEBRUARY 22 - MAY 18 -- Art and Appetite: American Painting, Culture, and Cuisine
This mouthwatering exhibition of sixty paintings explores the art and culture of food, investigating the many meanings and interpretations of dining in America. Depictions of food in art frequently celebrate the pleasures of eating: elegant and orderly arrangements of cookies or cakes, lavish and overflowing arrays of fruit, or the remnants of a gluttonous feast all convey the passion for consumption. Yet paintings of edibles also speak volumes about their cultural context.

APRIL 30, 2013 - APRIL 20, 2014 -- Texas Regionalism
This installation of Texas paintings captures a pivotal moment in the state’s cultural history. In the 1930s, a group of young artists—including Jerry Bywaters, Alexandre Hogue, William Lester, Thomas Stell, Harry Carnohan, and Coreen Spellman, among others—gained national recognition for their scenic and ideological interpretations of the local environment. Although they depicted the people and landscapes of Texas in identifiable and representational manners, each artist possessed their own style, often combining realism with modernist influences ranging from Cubism to Surrealism. These evocative paintings provide a poignant glimpse of life and art in Texas during the era of the Great Depression.


Guided Tours for Students:  
Click Here

Museum Hours:      
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday:  10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday:  Noon – 5 p.m.
Closed Mondays and major holidays

Admission:
 Admission to permanent collection is FREE.
Tickets for special exhibitions can be purchased
at the information desk.
All galleries in the Amon Carter Museum offer barrier-free access.


Location:  Amon Carter Art Museum
        3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard
        Fort Worth, TX 76107
        817-738-1933


Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
60.  DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS  

FREE First Tuesdays of each month
Time: 1-2pm
Cost:  
General admission to the Museum is free on the first Tuesday of every month.
Location:  
Center for Creative Connections (C3)
Ages:  Programming is designed for children ages five and under, but all are welcome.
Details: Enjoy thematic art-making activities, story times, performances, and gallery activities.

Exhibits:

THROUGH MARCH 30 -- CONCENTRATIONS 56: STEPHEN LAPTHISOPHON - COFFEE, SEASON FRUIT, ROOT VEGETABLES, AND "SELECTED POEMS"
Details:
The inclusion of food materials such as rosemary, saffron, or bacon fat mixed with pigments challenges ideas of permanence, skill, and process as they relate to art making. For Concentrations 56: Stephen Lapthisophon—coffee, seasonal fruit, root vegetables, and “Selected Poems," the artist will create a series of tableaus incorporating anachronistic objects with more recent works on paper. The gallery will feature architectural elements inspired by his studio space: exposed wood beams and drywall create a visual layering of space and materials.


NOVEMBER 24 - APRIL 27 (2014) -- Robert Smithson in Texas
Details:
Best known for his large-scale earthworks, Robert Smithson visited the state of Texas multiple times in the years 1966-1973, conceiving works that utilized the Texas land as his medium. Robert Smithson in Texas is the first examination of five projects Smithson proposed throughout the state of Texas. The exhibition presents lesser-known drawings, photographs, and sculpture related to Smithson’s Texas-based projects from a period of his career that was bookended by the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport project from 1966-67 and Smithson’s only realized work in Texas, the 1973 Amarillo Ramp.


HOMESCHOOL CLASS
Fourth Thursday of every month, with some exceptions.
Time:
11am-12:30pm
Details:
The Dallas Museum of Art’s homeschool classes offer an interactive Museum experience for families with children ages 6 and above. Parents and children learn about works of art together in the galleries, participate in hands-on activities as a family, and create a work of art together in the Art Studio. During the program, parents learn techniques and skills for creating their own educational experiences in the gallery.
Cost:
DMA members $5 per participating child (ages 6 and up).
To Register:
To register for the class, click here to go to the ticketing website, select Family Programs from the sidebar on the left, and follow the instructions to add the number of tickets you need for the class (one ticket per child). Participating adults do not require a ticket. If you have any difficulties with the new system, call 214-922-1270 or 214-922-1822. When classes are filled, call 214-922-1818 or e-mail familyexperiences@DallasMuseumofArt.org to be placed on a waiting list.
 
Homeschool classes are on summer break, but please check back in August for information about fall class registration. For a variety of summer experiences for families, please check out our Summer Programs information here.

For more information: click here


 
Family Activities:
Tuesday–Friday, 2:00­–3:00 p.m.
Cost: Family activities are free with paid admission. No registration is necessary.
Please call 214-922-1822 for more information.
Experience the Museum's premier collection through a cinematic lens with Summer Spotlight drop in activities for families. Meet in the Center for Creative Connections.

Sketching in the Gallery for Kids
EVERY THIRD SATURDAY with some exceptions
1 p.m.-3 p.m.

Families are invited to sketch from original works of art. All supplies are provided.


Collections Connection:
SUNDAYS
1:30–3:30 p.m., Level 3
Take an in-depth look at a different work of art each month. A trained volunteer will be in the galleries with engaging materials for all ages


Family Films
SATURDAYS & SUNDAYS at 2 p.m. in the Theater, Center for Creative Connections
Catch a showing of one of these Reading Rainbow films featuring animals:
The Legend of the Indian Paintbrush
The Paper Crane
The Piggy in the Puddle


Location:  Dallas Museum of Art
1717 North Harwood
Dallas, Texas 75201

Hours:  Tuesday and Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Closed Mondays, New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
Late night Fridays–museum open until Midnight.

General Admission:  
The general admission fee includes viewing the Museum’s permanent collection and most exhibitions.  An audio tour of the permanent collection is included in general admission. Audio tours for adults and families are available.
Ages 12 and under:  FREE;  $5/Students (with current school ID card);  $10/Adults $10; $7/Seniors (65 and over)

FREE on Thursday evenings from 5:00 to 9:00 p.m. (special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)
FREE on the first Tuesday of each month (special ticket prices may apply to exhibitions)

Group Discounts (10 more more):   Call 214-922-1222 or click here to email
To Purchase Advance Tickets:  214-922-1803

For more information about family experiences:  214-922-1822 or click here to e-mail


Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
61.  KIMBELL ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS

The Kimbell Art Museum’s holdings include artworks ranging in period from antiquity to the 20th century. The collection includes masterpieces by Fra Angelico, Caravaggio, El Greco, CÄ Ĺ zanne, Matisse, and Picasso, as well as antiquities, Asian, African, and pre-Columbian art.

FREE Admission to view the museum's Permanent Collection

KIMBELL KIDS DROP IN STUDIO
Time:
1pm-1:45pm
This free program introduces children (ages 12 and younger) and their adult companions to fun and inspiring ways to enjoy art together. Each session features a brief gallery activity and a related studio art project.

Upcoming Programs: TBA


No advance registration for this drop-in program; space is limited to 20 children, plus adults.
Sign up at the entrance to the education studios in the Renzo Piano Pavilion, beginning one hour before the program.


For More Information: Contact Here or call: 817.332.8452


       
Exhibits:

FEBRUARY 16 - AUGUST 31 -- Samurai: Armor from the Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Collection
Travel back in time and discover the life, culture and pageantry of the revered and feared Japanese samurai warriors through more than 100 remarkable objects from one of the best and largest collections in the world. Samurai: Armor from the Ann and Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Collection features the extraordinary artistry of the armor used by samurai—the military elite led by the shoguns, or warlords, of Japan from the 12th through 19th centuries.

Children's Workshops

Connect with artworks, new friends, and creative activities during Saturday workshops for children (ages 6–14) and their adult partners. Limit three children per adult; no charge for parents. Individual session fees are $15 ($12 for Kimbell members). To register, call 817-332-8451, ext. 351.



Museum Hours:  Mondays – Closed
            Tuesdays–Thursdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
            Fridays, noon–8 p.m.
            Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
            Sundays, noon–5 p.m.
            Closed New Year's Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, & Christmas Day

Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free.

There is a charge for special exhibitions.
Half-Off Admission:  Tuesdays from 10am to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 5 p.m.-8 p.m.
                          (not applicable for Member audio tours).

Group Sales:  Discounted tickets for groups of 20 or more are available with a reservation for a specific date and time, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For reservations, call 817-332-8451, ext. 229. Reservations for groups should be made at least two weeks in advance.

Location:  Kimball Art Museum
        3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard
        Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2792
        817-332-8451
        Metro: 817-654-1034
        Fax: 817-877-1264


Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
62.  PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE IN DALLAS

NEW PARENT/CHILD PROGRAM
Time:
Mondays 9am-10:30am (For children ages 4-5)
 
Registration is now open, classes start Monday, January 13, 2014.
 
Classes begin an hour before the Museum opens to the public, so the children will get unprecedented access to the galleries without distractions or interruptions.

Classes are 1.5 hours to allow time for supplemental hands-on experiences such as art projects and experiments that reinforce the concepts learned while visiting each of the four galleries:

The Texas Instruments Engineering and Innovation Hall

The Lyda Hill Gems and Minerals Hall
The Rees-Jones Foundation Dynamic Earth Hall
The Rose Hall of Birds

Parents participate alongside the children, and we predict parents will learn almost as much as the children!
 
Classes start soon, so remember to register today!
 
For more Informtion:
214.756.5728
To Register: Click Here



HOME SCHOOL EVENTS
(Mondays from 10am-Noon)
For ages: 3-5 years; 5-7 years; 8-10 years; and 11-13 years


MARCH 3 & 17 -- Weather & Climate

APRIL 7 & 14 -- Habitats & Animals

To Register:  
Click Here
For Additional Information:  Click Here to send an email
Details:
Beyond our upcoming Homeschool days, we offer additional time in the Museum and recommend that you stay and take advantage of visiting all five levels. Five floors house 11 permanent exhibit halls containing state-of-the-art video and 3D computer animation with thrilling, life-like simulations where visitors can exercise their brains through hands-on activities, interactive kiosks and educational games. The extraordinary building and outdoor space serves as a living science lesson, offering provocative illustrations of engineering, technology and conservation. 

FEATURED FILMS AT THE PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE
THROUGH MAY 23, 2014 -- Bugs! 3D
Come face-to-face with some of our world's smallest inhabitants in Bugs! – a big look at a microscopic world. Bugs! is a breakthrough live-action nature film that explores the lives of an old-world praying mantis and a beautiful butterfly, known by their Latin names, Hierodula and Papilio. Born in the same part of the exotic Borneo rainforest, Hierodula develops by incomplete metamorphosis emerging from his egg as a mini-mantis and shedding his skin regularly on the way to gaining his adult wings. Papilio goes through a complete metamorphosis from caterpillar to butterfly via the pupal stage. Discover a fascinating array of creatures in this lush and awe-inspiring habitat.

THROUGH MAY 23, 2014 -- Mysteries of the Unseen World 3D
Mysteries of the Unseen World will take audiences to places on this planet that they have never been before, to see things that are beyond their normal vision, yet literally right in front of their eyes. High-speed and time-lapse photography, electron microscopy, and nanotechnology are just a few of the advancements in science that now allow us to see a whole new universe of things, events, creatures, and processes we never even knew existed and now give us new "super powers" to see beyond what is in front of us. Visually stunning and rooted in cutting-edge research, Mysteries of the Unseen World will leave audiences in complete thrall as they begin to understand the enormity of the world they can't see, a world that exists in the air they breathe, on their own bodies, and in all of the events that occur around them minute-by-minute, and nanosecond-by-nanosecond. And with this understanding comes a new appreciation of the wonder and possibilities of science.


THROUGH MAY 23, 2014 -- Titans of the Ice Age 3D
Titans of the Ice Age transports viewers to the beautiful and otherworldly frozen landscapes of North America, Europe and Asia 10,000 years before modern civilization. Peer through the 3D canvas to an ancient world of ice — a time when humans shared the tundra with majestic woolly beasts. Dazzling computer-generated imagery brings this mysterious era to life, from saber-toothed cats and cave bears to dire wolves and woolly mammoths — giants both feared and hunted by prehistoric humans. The Ice Age marks a dynamic chapter in the development of the human spirit as our Pleistocene ancestors developed language, created art and learned to tame fire.

COMING 2014:  
APRIL 4 - SEPTEMBER 1, 2014 -- Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia 3D

Walk the Earth with dinosaurs... If it weren't for a series of cataclysmic events, a comet impact being first on the list, our planet could still be the domain of dinosaurs. Dinosaurs fascinate us so much, that many people wish they were still among us. Fortunately, Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia will be the one of the closest encounters your students will have with these extraordinary creatures. Deeply rooted in science, the film carries the audience back in time to witness these amazing beasts come to life. Meet the largest living animals to have ever walked Earth: the titanesque plant-eating Argentinosaur and its nemesis the Giganotosaur, a bipedal carnivore that could easily challenge the famous T. rex! Dinosaurs: Giants of Patagonia follows Dr. Rodolfo Coria, a world-renowned Argentinean paleontologist, as he visits sites of major discoveries.


Planetarium Shows
Secrets of the Sun
From the nuclear forces churning at the heart of the sun to the mass ejections of solar material into the surrounding space, we will experience the power of the sun and its impact on the planets and ultimately life on Earth. We will trace the life cycle of the sun itself, going back to its beginnings and moving forward in time to its eventual death.
Universe
Universe allows audiences to experience an historical look at how we have envisioned the universe though the ages. We visit some of the ancient sites where our ancestors erected great structures with special astronomical significance. Finally we look at the Universe through the eyes of today’s science and space explorers to build up a spectacular overview of the heavens.
Texas Night Sky
Enjoy this informal narrated introduction to the wonders of the sky featuring a view as it may appear tonight in your own backyard. Learn which planets, stars, and constellations are currently visible, the unique stories behind their names, and tips on how to locate them in the night sky. The things available to see change as the calendar changes and so do these shows!
Seven Wonders
Turn back the pages of time and witness the ancient wonders of the world as they have not been seen for thousands of years. Travel to Egypt to visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria and the Great Pyramids, to Persia to see the original Mausoleum, to Babylon to explore the fabled Hanging Gardens, to Greece to tour the Temples of Zeus and Artemis, and to Rhodes to stand in the shadow of the towering Colossus. We will investigate the theories of how these wonders were created and get a glimpse of some of the universe’s greatest wonders. Narrated by Sean Bean, Boromir from the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
Wonders of the Universe
Peer deep into space through the eyes of the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope and travel back billions of years in time to witness the birth of the universe. On this breathtaking excursion you’ll witness the formation of galaxies and explore some of the most wondrous nebulae and astronomical structures yet discovered. As your travels continue, you’ll fly deep into our own Milky Way galaxy and return home to Earth on a spectacular tour through the solar system.
Hubble Space Telescope Images
The Orion Nebula, a cavern of rolling dust and gas some 1,500 light-years away, is the nearest star-forming region to Earth. This image is the sharpest ever taken of the nebula.  The bright central region is home to the four heftiest stars in the nebula, collectively called the Trapezium. Ultraviolet light from them is carving a cavity in the nebula and disrupting the growth of hundreds of smaller stars. Nearby are stars still young enough to have disks of material encircling them, too small to be seen clearly in this image. The disks are the building blocks of solar systems. Faint red stars near the bottom are myriad brown dwarfs. Sometimes called “failed stars,” brown dwarfs are cool objects too small to be ordinary stars because they cannot sustain nuclear fusion in their cores the way our Sun does. Astronomers used 104 five-color Hubble images to make this composite picture, adding ground-based photos to fill out the edges. The mosaic covers approximately the apparent angular size of the full moon. The observations were taken between 2004 and 2005.


Permanent Exhibits at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science (Open Dec 1, 2012):

Moody Family Children's Museum
Where Little Children Make Big Discoveries: Park your stroller-and rev up for a day of discovery with your child! Here, kids 5 and younger can climb a replica of Reunion Tower, discover Texas wildlife or simply paint a picture.   
Sports Hall
Give Your Mind and Body a Workout!: Could you outrun a Tyrannosaurus rex, or through a football better than a pro? Get ready, get set-and get active as you explore your body in motion!
Discovering Life Hall
The Power of Adaptation: What is life, and how do different species adapt over time? From single-cell organisms to the largest creatures on the planet, this exhibit hall explores and celebrates the diversity of life on earth.
Being Human Hall
What Does it Mean to be Human?: Study a sliver of real human tissue-or use your brain waves to launch a ping-pong ball. There's more to being human than you may realize!
Texas Instruments Engineering and Innovation Hall
How Does it Work? Ask an Engineer: What do bridges, prosthetics and robots have in common? Discover how engineers use math and science to solve everyday problems.
The Rees-Jones Foundation Dynamic Earth Hall
Forecast: 100 Chance of Change: Where else can you experience an earthquake, touch a tornado and broadcast a weather forecast all in the same day? Discover how earth, air, and water interact to provide dynamic results.
Tom Hunt Energy Hall
Empowering the Future of Energy: Take a virtual expedition deep underground to explore a drilling rig from the inside out! From natural gas to solar and wind energy, every source of energy is fueled by science.
Gems and Minerals Hall
Natural Brilliance: Gems and minerals not only serve as as the building blocks of our planet-many of them also happen to shimmer, sparkle and glow! Explore both the practical side and beautiful aspects of these complex structures.
Expanding Universe Hall
Your Space for Discovery: Embark on a journey through our solar system and beyond, and discover how scientists uncover the secrets of the universe.
T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall
Clues and Insights from the Fossil Record: Discover how studying the bodies and behaviors of modern-day animals can give scientists a glimpse of dinosaur life.
Rose Hall of Birds
Let Your Mind Take Flight: Create your own virtual species of bird as you explore the adaptations that help birds thrive in diverse environments.


Museum Information:
The Museum of Nature & Science consists of several buildings all located in Fair Park, Dallas. The Nature Building is located at 3535 Grand Avenue, the Science Building is located at 1318 South Second Avenue and the Planetarium Building is located at 1620 First Avenue.

Location:  
2201 N. Field Street in Dallas (located at the corner of Woodall Rodgers and Field Street
Phone: 214-428-5555     
Email: info@natureandscience.org

Hours and Admission:
All buildings: 10am-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, Noon-5 p.m. Sunday
(In the event of inclement weather, please call 214-421-3466 ext. 382)
Admission Pricing: http://www.natureandscience.org/information/admission.asp


Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
63.  FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Explore innovative learning studios and a wide variety of interactive exhibits in the new Museum of Science and History.

Admission:

$14 for adults
$10 for children (3-12) and seniors (60+)
Admission to ExploraZone and all National Cowgirl Museum exhibits is one price and free for all Museum members
For Ticket Information: 817-255-9540
(
Exhibit admission includes half-price admission to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.  
The National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame is open daily Mon – Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
)

Location:  1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, 76107 (corner of Montogomery & Gendy)


Planetarium Shows:
One World, One Sky:  Big Bird's Adventure
LASER Light Family Style
Our Amazing Solar System

Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
64. NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER

Location:  Dallas Arts District
                2001 Flora Street
                214-242-5100

Exhibits:

THROUGH MAY 11 -- David Bates
Details:
This spring, the Nasher Sculpture Center and the Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth present a joint exhibition of the work of artist David Bates. A retrospective of Bates’s work, the exhibition is installed in both locations with an emphasis on sculpture and works on paper at the Nasher and painting in Fort Worth.
For More Information: Click Here
 

First Saturdays (FREE Admission)
10 a.m.–noon–Children’s Art Activity
Express yourself by creating unique artworks connected to the month’s Big Idea.
10 a.m.–12:30 p.m.–Art in Action Sculpture Demo  
See how sculpture is made and feel the materials artists use at our live artist demos. 
10 a.m.–2 p.m.–Art Scavenger Hunt
Exercise your detective skills to search the Nasher for art related to the month’s Big Idea. Complete the hunt for a special prize!   
10:15 a.m.; 11:15 a.m.; 12:15 p.m.–Family Tours
Discover and discuss each month’s Big Idea on an interactive tour for the whole family.  
11 a.m.–2 p.m.–NasherKids Meal Available at Nasher Cafe (for additional charge)
11:30 a.m.–Yoga
12:30 p.m.–Storytime with the Dallas Public Library
Share in the joy of reading with storytellers from the Dallas Public Library.
1 p.m.–NasherKids Live!
Join in the fun with an exciting, live performance for families and young children.


http://www.nashersculpturecenter.org


Back to ART MUSEUMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

65.  SHOWS AT THE FORT WORTH OMNI THEATER–MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Now Showing

Rocky Mountain Express
Tickets: $7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: Climb aboard the Rocky Mountain Express, a steam train journey through the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian Rockies, highlighting the adventure of building the nation’s first transcontinental railway. Retrace the original route aboard the majestic steam engine 2816.  You'll be transported back to the age of steam to re-live this incredible engineering feat. The film weaves together spectacular IMAX aerial cinematography, breathtaking vistas of the west, archival photographs and maps and the potent energy and rhythms of a live steam locomotive to immerse audiences in a an era of remarkable ingenuity and struggle and a region of stunning natural beauty. Ride the rails along deep river canyons and over high mountain passes. Discover some of the most beautiful and rugged landscapes on earth and the heroic human drama and epic engineering that shaped a continent.
For More Information about Rocky Mountain Express: Click Here
 
Bugs! A Rainforest Adventure
Tickets: $7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: One of the Omni Theater’s all-time favorites is back! Bugs! A Rainforest Adventure is a live-action nature drama filmed on location in Borneo and in a purpose-built studio in Oxford, England, Bugs! explores the dramatic and savage lives of an Old World praying mantis and a beautiful butterfly, known by their Latin names, Hierodula and Papilio. This 40-minute feature combines incredible footage with cutting-edge IMAX® technology to deliver a fantastically entertaining and enlightening experience about the little guys in life.
For More Information about Bugs! A Rainforest Adventure: Click Here
 
Animalopolis
Tickets:  
$7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: Take a voyage into the magical world of animals in Animalopolis. It’s a bit fanciful, a bit "Seussian" perhaps, and just plain fun for kids and their parents.  The whimsical film is done in rhyme and verse with a humorous tone while concentrating on real-world animal activities. It takes a lighthearted and imaginary look at a variety of animals, including cheetahs that race like a Ferrari, bears that run their own fishing school, an operatic lion, scary crabs that hold a town hostage and even attempt to cuddle with children, and much more. Whether going nose to nose with hippos as they graze upon nature's massive salad bar, or eye to eye with dancing bears, sea lions turning somersaults, or an otter that prays, we are reminded that nature provides us with humor and wonder everywhere.
For More Information About Animalopolis: Click Here


Forces of Nature
Tickets:  $7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details:It’s one thing to contemplate the immense power of nature, quite another to experience it first-hand. Forces of Nature showcases the awesome spectacle of earthquakes, volcanoes, and severe storms and follows scientists on a ground-breaking quest to understand what triggers these natural disasters. You travel to the very brink of erupting volcanoes, into the paths of deadly pyroclastic flows, along massive fault lines, and aboard vehicles barreling toward tornadoes. Along the way, you learn what can be done to predict and prepare for these events and minimize their deadly effects.
For More Information about Forces of Nature: Click Here



Back to IMAX/OMNI THEATERS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
66.  PROGRAMS AT LOG CABIN VILLAGE

MAR 13 -- Garden Thyme
Time: 
10am-12pm
Cost:
Regular Village Admission
Details: Come learn about a variety of gardening and nature topics in this brand new monthly series hosted by our resident gardening guru, Master Composter, and Master Naturalist Pat.  Topics will vary by month, but may include anything from herbs to bluebirds.  Come dressed to get dirty!  No reservations required.

MAR 15 -- It's all Fun and Games
Time:
1pm-4pm
Cost:
Regular Village Admission (Plus $2 fee if you want to make a craft to take home)
Details: It’s time for spring at the Village!  Cap off your spring break by playing with old-time toys and games, plowing the field...and more!   No reservations required.


APR 12 -- Making Your Own "Housewife"
Time:
1pm-4pm
Cost:
$15 per person program fee includes general Village admission, and class materials.
Details: A Civil War soldier was often sent to battle with a small rolled up fabric wallet (“housewife”) containing items to make emergency repairs to his uniform. Learn the process of making your own kit/fabric wallet that can be used for everything from sewing to carrying tools. 
Program is designed to be an adult or adult/child activity.  Limit of 2 children per adult.
Click Here for Registration Form Reservations required by April 4.


Location:  2100 Log Cabin Village Lane, Fort Worth, TX  
Admission:  $4.50 ages 4-17 and 60+;  $5 ages 18+
$4.00 each for groups of 10+;  Free for ages 3 & under
Hours:  Tue-Fri, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.;   Sat & Sun, 1 p.m.- 5 p.m.;   Closed Mondays
Phone:
817-392-5881

For More Information:  Click Here

Back to HISTORICAL PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
67.  DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE


Family Past Times
3rd Sunday of the Month
Time:  
Noon - 4pm
Admission:  
Children FREE; Adults $9; Seniors $7
Bring the whole family for historic fun and participate in themed activities.


Nip & Tuck
Stories, Music and Hands-On Activities for Preschoolers
Please RSVP:  214-413-3674 or e-mail us. You can even purchase your advance tickets online.
Tickets can be purchased by phone, at the gate or online.
RSVP: 214-413-3674 or by email

Back to HISTORICAL PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
68.  OLD RED MUSEUM OF DALLAS COUNTY HISTORY AND CULTURE


Home School Programs
Future Home School Programs to be announced


Chose your Date, Chose your Program:
Your group can schedule the date and choose the program from the many we offer.  The date and program can be scheduled Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 2:00pm or on limited Saturdays from 9:30am till noon. 
All visits will include:  Four interactive galleries, over forty computer touch screens, the Children’s Education Center, Discovery Carts and Interactive Gallery Guides.
 
Time:  Registration: 9:15 a.m.-9:45 a.m.
          Program Begins: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Cost:  $6/children;  $3 Adults
Includes program, all day admission to the museum galleries and program supplies.
Please note that we have changed to a cash only admission the day of the program.
Location:  Old Red Museum
                100 South Houston Street
                Dallas, TX  75202
                214-757-1949
To RSVP: 
 Click here to email the sales dept with the following info:
Names of attending adults, email address, phone, number of adults, number of children, ages of children.  If you are a group leader, please list your group name with each family unit listed separately, as this makes preparation and registration run more smoothly.
Parking:  Museum guests may purchase an
underground parking vouchers for $2.
Details: Everyone enjoys a celebration!  What brings families and communities together?  How are traditions enjoyed? Come and join us at Old Red as we discover some of the rich traditional celebrations that help create the great city of Dallas. Students will enjoy music, making sand art, designing special placemats, creating cards and other items to be taken home and shared with family and friends.

CURRENT EXHIBITS
NOVEMBER 6 - AUGUST 31, 2014 -- Dream No Small Dreams: How Erik Jonsson Led Dallas from
Tragedy to Triumph in the 1960s
Details:  This exhibit will tie in to other events throughout the city commemorating the 50th anniversary of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination. David Biegler, Chairman of the Board, remarked that “the Old Red Museum will tell the rest of the story with a particular emphasis on the aftermath of the assassination.  It is a story of civic action that pulled the city from depression and helped it regain the pride and momentum that had been so much a part of its past. The story will be examined through the individual leader who, as Mayor, took the helm of the city.  [Dream No Small Dreams] will focus on his extraordinary leadership after the dark days in 1963.”

Other Exhibits:
Early Years: Prehistory to 1873
Trading Center

Big D
World Crossroads


Discount:  The Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID) a $1 discount per person/ticket. Discount may not be used for the Home School Workshops.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership:
Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Back to HISTORICAL PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
69.  STAR PARTIES at  FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND HISTORY

Have you ever seen the rings of Saturn? Have you ever wanted to view the moons of Jupiter? Have you been dazzled by a star cluster? Are you in the market for a telescope and don't know where to start? This and more can be discovered every month outside the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History during the free monthly telescope observing. The star gazing events are held every month on area north of the Museum on the Saturday nearest the first quarter moon, weather permitting.   They are presented by the Noble Planetarium staff and members of the Fort Worth Astronomical Society.

The Noble Planetarium is under construction, but you can still gaze at the stars and learn about the night sky during our free monthly  Star Parties.

2014 STAR PARTIES
MAR 8
APR 5
MAY 10

Cost:  
Free
Location:   In the Musuem's South Parking Lot.
Parking:  
Parking is available in the lot south of Harley Street.
Time:  Dusk–10:30 p.m.
Details:
Join the Noble Planetarium staff and members of the Fort Worth Astronomical Society in front of the Museum on Gendy Street.  You’ll find plenty of telescopes for viewing and even more astronomy buffs to help you navigate your way through the skies. This event is weather permitting. 


For more information:  click here
              

Back to SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70.  NORTH TEXAS DISTRICT SCIENCE FAIR FOR HOME SCHOOLERS

Need a boost to your homeschool science curriculum? Have a detail inclined child or one who loves science or technology? Need something on a college application to convince the staff your child can compete with the best? Science fair should be in your future!

Your 6th graders have a chance to participate in the Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair (DRSEF) too!

Private homeschooled students in grades 3-12 may enter in one of 4 divisions. Those living in TEA region 10: Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Kaufman and Rockwall counties compete for the opportunity to enter the DRSEF. Students in other near-by counties may compete at our NDTSF for awards, but cannot be guaranteed entry into a regional ISEF event: some have gone on to the FortWorth Regional event.

All 6 - 12 grade projects need some ISEF forms (like the research plan) to be filled in BEFORE experimentation begins! 6th graders' projects may NOT include any handling of toxic/dangerous substances or require permission for human or animal subjects. Higher grades must submit forms for these BEFORE experimentation begins - start early. Please find out more on our website. This is the most confusing part of science fair participation, so let's get it worked out early - contact us. We don't want students eliminated on technicalities.

Students from our NDTSF have done very well at DRSEF (placing and even Grand Prize!) and at the Texas Science and Engineering Fair (placing). You don't have to place to win a special prize. Add that "WOW" factor to your project by checking out our new links to give your project even more "Marvelocity". Ask how we can help. Don't forget to check our "Links" page for more homeschool friendly science competitions (some links need to be fixed at Texas A&M).

For More Information:  Click Here to email

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
70.  ALEDO CHRISTIAN SCHOOL'S BASKETBALL, BASEBALL, VOLLEYBALL, SOFTBALL TEAMS

Aledo Christian School, located in Aledo,TX, is offering their sports programs to home schoolers.

Who:  7-12th grade boys and girls
Girls Sports:  
Volleyball, Basketball, Softball
Boys Sports:  Basketball & Baseball

Location:  Aledo Christian School
                400 Queen Street
                Aledo, TX  76008

For Information About Baseball:  817-939-2979 or click here to email
For Information About Other Sports: Contact 817-441-7357
 

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
71.  BERNE ACADEMY'S BOYS VARSITY BASKETBALL

Berne Academy, located in Lancaster, TX, is looking for homeschoolers to play on their Boys'  Varsity Basketball Team.  They are associated with T-CAL (Texas Christian Athletic League) out of San Antonio.

Who:  7-12th grade boys
Location of Practices:  Tommie Allen Recreation Center on Bonnie View Road
For More Information:  972-218-7373 or click here to email
 

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
72.  HOMESCHOOL SWIM-- The Colony Aquatic Park

Brand New!  Expanded Homeschool Swim in The Colony!!
The price for fall season passes are very reasonable, especially since there are now three different days a week that you can come!
 

When: 
Monday/Wednesday/Friday
Time:  
12:30-1:30pm

Location:  
The Colony Aquatic Park
               5580 N. Colony Blvd  
               The Colony, TX  75056


Cost:
$4 per person or purchase a season pass

Note:  Children 6 and under MUST be directly attended by a swimming adult within arms reach.

Seasonal Passes available:
 $45–Individual
                                          $60–Micro-family (2-3 members)
                                               
  $80–Family (4+ members)

For More Information: 972-624-2225 or Click Here to email
http://www.TCpard.com

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
73.  HOME SCHOOL SWIM AND SWIM TEAM AT DON RODENBAUGH NATATORIUM
IN ALLEN

Home School Open Swim
Half-Price Fridays at the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium!

Time:  1 p.m. – 3 p.m. during the school year
Who:  Home school students and their families.
Cost:  $2/Students;  $2.50/adults
For More Information:  Call 214-509-4770 or visit http://www.allenparks.org/


City of Allen Home school Swim Team
Practices:  Monday through Friday from 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location:  Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium
For more information:  Call 972-992-3996 or visit http://www.metro-aquatics.org/


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
74.  CHRISTIAN MARTIAL ARTS

Christian Martial Arts, an outreach of First Baptist Church of Euless, is offering a free month of classes to HEART of Texas newsletter readers who wish to try out their program.  Christian Martial Arts has been ministering to the physical as well as spiritual needs of local families for almost ten years at First Euless!

It is a fun way to get plenty of exercise in an environment that seeks to honor God and teach respect for others. The tenets of CMA are Courtesy, Humility, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable spirit. Students learn fundamentals of self-defense, balance, flexibility, practice and repetition. We encourage progress through belt promotions but each student is only in competition with himself to advance. We have sparring nights, optional board breaking, tournaments and special events including Christmas parties and demonstrations. If you are looking for a great family activity, you've found it!


Cost: $25/month per person

Times/Class Descriptions:
Monday: 6:00  p.m.–6:30  p.m.–Children only
Monday: 6:30  p.m.–7:30  p.m.–Beginners & Advanced of all ages
Thursday: 6:30  p.m.–7:30  p.m.–Beginners of all ages
Thursday: 7:30  p.m.–8:30  p.m.–Advanced students
Saturday: 10:00 am–12:00  p.m.–Open Workout for all students



For More Information: Click Here


Discount:  Christian Martial Arts, an outreach of First Baptist Church of Euless, is offering a free month of classes to HEART of Texas newsletter readers who wish to try out their program.


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75.  DALLAS THUNDER HOME SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Dallas Thunder is a home school competitive basketball organization.
Dallas Thunder offers:
Christ-centered, competitive Basketball for Home schooled boys and girls
Experienced, Professional Coaches.
The opportunity to play top public and private schools in the area
Participation in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament.

Website: http://www.dallasthunder.org 


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
76.  ELITE TRACK CLUB/CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM


For More Information:  Click Here to email or 817-800-3922                                
Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
77.  HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

The Home School Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization providing athletics for homeschoolers through volunteer home school parent. They provide various programs including football, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and basketball for high school and middle school home schoolers.
 
If you are interested in joining HSAA Cross Country, please click here to contact the Track Commissioner.

If interested in a two day football camp for middle schoolers this summer, please click here.

2014 HSAA Track & Field Registration
The HSAA Track & Field team gives homeschooled athletes an opportunity to compete against local schools in the sprints, distance, hurdles, throws (shot put/discus), jumps (long, triple, and high), and relays.  Team practices are on Monday and Wednesday and begin in Plano on January 13, 2014, for High School and January 27, 2014, for Middle School.  Meet schedule will not be finalized until Feb 2014 but will be similar to the 2012-13 season, which is still posted on the HSAA website.
Information/Registration: There will be TWO information/registration sessions for the 2014 Track & Field teams. Prospective athletes and a parent must attend one: November 9, 2013 or January 2, 2014.
Tryouts: Tryouts are not held for Track & Field.  Therefore, registering for the track team is your commitment that you will participate in the upcoming season.  Please speak to your child to ensure they want to participate in a competitive sports program and put in the necessary hours practicing before you register. 
Practices:  Practices and meets are mandatory and at-home workouts are assigned for the days we don’t have team practice (athletes will log their weekly workouts online on the team’s digital running log).  There will be a meeting at registration explaining the program and requirements.  Additionally, you may email Kara Schmidt if you have specific questions or concerns, click here to email Kara.
Volunteers:  If you are interested in volunteering with our team, please contact Kara Schmidt for an interview.  No experience is necessary!  There will be plenty of on-the-job training!
Registration Dates (must attend ONE):
 1.  Sat, Nov 9, 10:00-12:00 am, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, TX, Plano TX.  Mandatory  meeting begins at 10:30 am.
 2.  Thu, Jan 2, 6:30-8:30 pm, Haggard Library, 2501 Coit Road, Plano, TX, Plano TX.  Mandatory  meeting begins at 7:00 pm.
2013-14 Fees:
$300 for High School
$200 for Middle School
$19 Tank/$18 Shorts (same uniform as 2013 season) for HS/MS
 Multiple Payment Plans if register in November (contact Kara Schmidt if you need another option):
$300 High School---3 plans (H1, H2, H3)
            H1:  In full, $300 at registration, November 9 or January 2
            H2:  $150 at November 9 registration + $150 due at January 2 meeting
            H3:  $100 at November 9 registration, $100 due by mail December 15, and $100 due January 2
 $200 Middle School---2 plans (M1, M2)
            M1:  In full, $200 at registration, November 9 or January 2
            M2:  $100 at registration, $100 at January 2 Meeting
 
Uniforms:
There will be a full run of sizes tank/shorts for the athletes to try-on at registration.  We are using the same uniforms (tanks/shorts) for the 2014 season so only new athletes will need to purchase uniforms.  Uniform cost is NOT included in the registration fees.  Cost for a new uniform is $37:  $19 for single tank and $18 for shorts.  Uniform fee must be paid in full at registration.
 
Important Payment Notes:
1.  NO CASH.  Cash cannot be directly deposited by HSAA.  Please have a check, cashier’s check, or money order made out to “HSAA”.  Put your child’s name and “track” on the memo line.  There are several businesses located near the registration site if you need to have cash converted to a money order the day of registration!
2.  Fees paid at registration are non-refundable.
What to Bring/Read Prior to Registration:
Forms are located in the HSAA "Forms" section online at www.hsaa.org.  There will be limited blank copies at registration, so please print out ahead of time.
1. Bring Completed Spring 2014 Track & Field Application
2. Bring HSAA Athletic Release and Medical Authorization for 2013-2014
3.  Bring 2013-14 Physical Evaluation Form (this is an example; other forms are acceptable; physicals for 2013-14 year due prior to first practice)
4.  Read HSAA Appearance Code
5.  Read HSAA Expectations
6.  Read HSAA Eligibility Requirements


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
78.  HULCY HOME SCHOOL PE CLASSES IN RICHARDSON

Come try your first class for free and see if our 20 year reputation of helping kids enjoy  in a competitive Christian atmosphere is right for your family. 100% of the children that have tried it... have stayed.
 
Ages:  6-12
Cost:  $20 a month for first child... $15 a month for any additional children.

When:  Tuesdays (once a week)
Girls meet from 2:00-3:30 p.m.
Boys meet from 3:30-5:00 p.m.
To sign up just call 214-695-5560
 
Where:–Heights Park in Richardson on Floyd
in between Belt Line and Arapaho on the West  side of 75 (south of Arapaho).
 
We play an array of competitive  for kids at any skill level: dodgeball, football, kickball, flag tag, capture the flag, war, softball, baseball, crazyball, flipperball, Frisbee golf, soccer, circle dodgeball, track and field, and tons more.  We also play fun and easy games such as:  squirrel in a tree, two headed monster, parachute games, and much more!

We have a family camp out in January, and a Field Day at the end of the year that includes a picnic dinner, volleyball, hay ride, playing in a tree house, games, a bonfire, and cooking hotdogs outside!
  
Call RHETT HULCY directly to enroll or for any questions about the class:
214-695-5560

Discount:  Rhett is offering HEART of Texas members one free month of classes, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
79.  HOME SCHOOL PE PROGRAMS AT VELOCITY  IN SOUTHLAKE

Location:  Velocity Sports Performance
                1800 East Highway 114, Suite 101
                Southlake, TX  
                817-416-0606

Discount:  Velocity /Southlake is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on all training, whether it is with the Home School program, regular training program or any camps that are held at this location., with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.   
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Velocity Sports Performance in Southlake has designed a program to meet the needs of Home School Families!

Location:
     1800 East Hwy 114, Suite 101
, Southlake, TX  
For More Information: Call 817-416-0606
To Learn More About Velocity:  www.velocitysp.com/southlake

Velocity  Performance is a  training facility with a staff of degreed and certified coaches.  Their programs focus on all facets of athletic performance, including speed and agility, strength and explosive power, flexibility and mobility, endurance and energy system develo p.m.ent, and injury risk prevention.

Their 18,200 sq. ft. indoor facility includes a 30 yard turf field, 60 yard speed track, regulation volleyball court, Olympic weight area, comfortable viewing area for parents/coaches with wireless internet, men's and women's showers, electronic timing system and video analysis, and SPARQ testing.

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
80.  HOME SCHOOL FENCING CLASSES AT FENCING INSTITUTE OF TEXAS

Fencing Institute of Texas is committed to supporting our Home Schooled children by providing physical fitness that challenges the mind as well as the body.  

Home School Classes
Times:  4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Tuesdays and Thursdays
        10:00 a.m. – 11:30 am. – Saturdays

Instructor:  Coach Rhonda Trietsch
For More Information: 972-444-8498 or visit: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html

Students enjoy private lessons, group training, and mini-tournaments during this time.

Parents are welcome to participate along with their children in these programs.

Additional classes during the week between the hours of 10 AM and 4  p.m. will be added
as this program and need grows.  

Open Enrollment: Students may join this program at any time; the first month's fees are prorated.  There is no pro-ration of fees after the first month.  Fees are $90 per month plus $50 tuition ($140), and are due by the 5th of the month.  Fees are due in advance and are non-refundable.

Students may take additional private lessons outside of the class meeting time for an additional fee.

To Register: Class size is limited to 15 students; pre-registration is required.  If you are interested, please call our school at (972) 444-8498, or complete and mail or FAX the Home School Registration form.

To Download Registration Form: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html

Discount:  Fencing Institute of Texas is offering HEART of Texas members a $10 discount off the monthly tuition (individual or family) with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.   HEART of Texas students participating in the FIT Saturday Page or Squire programs receive a $5 discount off the monthly program fee with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here



Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
81.  PARKER-TARRANT HOME SCHOOL 

Parker-Tarrant Home School  exists to promote and accomplish  education for the Texas Home School student in a Christian environment. With a focus primarily in the Parker County and West Tarrant County areas of North Texas, the organization’s objective is to provide a competitive environment for middle school and high school  competition that is not normally provided by traditional home school organizations or support groups. PTHSS desires to accomplish this goal in a way that both works alongside the parents and honors Jesus Christ.

Currently the PTHSS organization offers boys' Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball, boys' Basketball from middle school through high school, girls' high school basketball and girls' Varsity and Junior Varsity Volleyball. Six-Man boys' football is being added this fall! Other  programs and age divisions may be offered in the future.

Many of the PT Warriors athletic activities occur at Birchman Baptist Church in West Fort Worth.


For More Information:  click Here to email or www.pthss.org/

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
82.  POP-IN PLAYTIME AT PUMP-IT-UP OF GRAPEVINE

WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Time:  10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ages:  2-6 years old

WEDNESDAYS
Time:  3:30–5:30 p.m.
Ages:  6-12 years old

Discount:  Pump-It-Up of Grapevine is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on private parties. Members also receive $1 off Pop-In-Playtime on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for ages 2 through 6, and on Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 for ages 6-12.   Members must present their valid HEART of Texas Family ID card to take advantage of these special offers.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


For More Information:  817-329-1332 or grapevine@pumpitupdfw.com


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
83.  THESA RIDERS HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

THESA Riders is a home school  association, providing the DFW area with competitive and Christ-centered athletic programs for home schoolers at the high school and junior high level.

THESA offers the following:
Baseball -- 
Boys Basketball -- Girls Basketball -- Girls Cheer -- Boys Football -- Boys and Girls Golf -- Girls Softball -- Girls Volleyball

THESA Riders is offering a competitive HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER program for 2013-2014.
TRYOUTS:  Dates to be announced SOON – check web site or email us

Who is THESA?
THESA  (Texas Home Educators' Sports Association) exists to support families with a calling to home educate their children by providing high quality, competitive sports programs, enabling children to grow in Godly character and skills at the junior and senior high level.

What does a THESA soccer tryout look like?
The coaches will spend about 20 minutes at the beginning of the tryouts with a parent/player orientation – expectations, what a season looks like, practices, commitment. 
The coaches will then put players through 1 Ä‚ -2 hours of stretching, conditioning, skills, drills, and team play.

Do players need to attend all the tryouts?
If your schedule allows, attending all the tryouts is best.  While attending all the tryouts is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged for each player to make the best showing, get to know the other players and coaches.

What does a player need to bring?

Players need to come with a GREAT attitude, dressed in appropriate soccer attire and equipment, bring a personal ball (only size 5) and LOTS of water, maybe even a snack.

Questions?
Web site:  http://www.thesariders.net/
Email us at thesaridersoccer@gmail.com


For More Information: http://www.thesariders.net

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS
 
Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
84.  TRAINING FOR CONFIDENCE MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL IN COLLEYVILLE

Training for Confidence is a full-time martial arts school in Colleyville.

We currently have several families at our Colleyville school location who home school
their children.  We would welcome the opportunity to partner with Heart of Texas and
offer discounted tuition to your members.

Discount:  Training for Confidence is offering HEART of Texas members a 25% discount off the monthly student membership fee, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here



To Learn More:  TFCKarate.com

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS
 
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
85.  BEST GYMNASTICS IN FLOWER MOUND 

Gymnastics is the best sport available to create young athletes and proper athletic foundations for all future sporting endeavors.  We offer several classes for all ages including: Little Tots class for 14mo-3 years, Best Kids 3-4 years.  For ages 5 and up we offer Tumbling, Girls Gymnastics, Boys Gymnastics and a Home schooling class. 

Location:  601 Cross Timbers Rd. Suite 100 in Flower Mound.
To Learn More: 972-874-8800 or click here

Home School Class
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 1:00pm-2:00pm
Details: Best Gymnastics does not have sessions, so you can join at anytime! This co-ed class for ages 5 and older will focus on athletic conditioning, tumbling, flexibility, core strength, and of course, fun! The class has a 10:1 student/teacher ratio.
Cost: $59/month
For more information: Click here

Open Gym
Date: Every Friday
Time:  6:00pm-9:00pm 
Cost: $12/child
Details: This is a drop off event. Lots of exercise and lots of fun! No reservations required.
For more information: Click here


Best Night Out
Date: Swpt 14
Time:
6:00-10:00pm
Cost:
$25/child; siblings receive $5 discount
Details:
Best Night Out is designed for parents to get the night off while kids have a blast at the gym! Dinner and a drink are provided. Children 3 (potty trained) and older may attend Best Night Out.
For more information:
 Click here
Upcoming dates: 
Sept 14: Best Bucks Spending Spree; Oct 19: Monster Mash Madness; Nov 9: Pirates and Princesses Party; Dec 14: Winter Wonderland

Discount:  Best Gymnastics is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount off all of their recreational gymnastics classes, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


To Learn More about Best Gymnastics: 972-874-8800 or click here

Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS
 
Back to the top
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
86.   HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM AT LANTANA GOLF CLUB

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM
SPRING 2014 SESSION

Experience the Game of Golf! Lantana Golf Club is offering three separate golf programs for juniors, age 8-17, in 2014. The Spring, Summer and Fall programs will each offer weekly clinics over a period of 8-10 weeks.

Participants will receive instruction on full swing, short game (chip, pitch, putting) and bunker play. Participants will also receive a basic introduction to the rules & etiquette of golf and the opportunity for quality time on the course.

Our objective is to introduce juniors to the game of golf, improve playing skills and provide the opportunity for personal growth and learning. We hope to build and strengthen character, develop new friendships, and enjoy the experience and life lessons this great game provides.

Marc Brooks will provide lead instruction with assistance from other local golf professionals as needed. Mr. Brooks is a PGA member and currently Director of Instruction at Lantana Golf Club. He was recently named "Best Golf Instructor Denton County 2012" and a member of the PGA President's Council for his continuing effors to promote the grow the game of golf.  

To Register: click here to download the registration form.

For more information: Contact Marc Brooks, PGA at 940-728-4653 or click here to email

Discount:  Marc Brooks is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Back to HOME SCHOOL /PE PROGRAMS
 
Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
87.  SMOOTHING THE WAY MEETINGS -- NORTH TEXAS

Smoothing the Way is a support group dedicated to serving first-year homeschooling mothers. Each month a topic of specific interest to the new homeschooler is offered.  We will offer you information that will make your first year less confusing. We will also offer you the opportunity to meet other new homeschoolers who are sharing your experiences — both good and bad! You will meet veteran homeschoolers who can reassure you that these experiences are very normal and can help you to navigate through your first year.

For Information about Smoothing the Way groups near you, or to find out how you can lead a group: http://www.smoothingtheway.com/


Back to SUPPORT GROUPS

Back to the top    

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
88.  DFW SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

REGISTER NOW FOR 2014 SPEECH & DEBATE SUMMER CAMPS!
Camps are held in July and August
Cost:
Click Here
Details: Expose your students to the benefits of speech and debate training firsthand at DFW Speech & Debate camps this summer. Beginners age 12-18 are encouraged to sharpen their critical thinking and communication skills at their 2-day Intro to Speech and 3-day Intro to Policy Debate camps. Younger students age 6-11 can also get started at their Junior Speech camp.

To Register:
Click Here
For More Information:
Contact Here



DFW Speech & Debate is committed to providing quality communications training to help students sharpen their ability to analyze problems, think and listen critically, and communicate their ideas in an organized and compelling manner. Our communications training includes:
 
Speech & Debate Summer Camps
We train hundreds of students each summer who go on to excel in competition! Our camps are engaging and fun and serve to inspire students to cultivate their critical thinking and communication skills. We offer a wide variety of training including introductory, intermediate and advanced Speech and Debate camps, Model UN, Moot Court and much more for ages 12-18! This summer we are expanding our offerings to include Junior Speech for ages 6-11!
 
Private Coaching! - for speakers, debaters and writers who would like to advance their skills at a faster pace
Most great competitors have great coaches. Our veteran team of coaches provide individualized training for students prior to and during the school year. Coaching sessions include helping students develop a high level of competency writing AP quality essays, writing and performing speeches, and writing and arguing their debate case. See specific Coaching Services here.
 
Tools for Debate Curriculum
Most great competitors also have great TOOLS. Our easy-to-use 12-week curricula puts valuable instruction in the hands of debate students and club leaders to prepare students for Policy and Lincoln Douglas debate competition. Our curriculum includes a dual track approach to help beginners master foundational skills such as Writing a Case, 4-Point Refutation, Organization and Cross-Examination (C/X) and more. Experienced debaters will advance to the next level with round-winning techniques on C/X Strategies, and NEG strategies (e.g. identifying unproven or faulty assumptions). Packed with examples, drills, quizzes and a FREE affirmative case!
 
For More Information:  dfwspeechanddebate.com
 
Discount:  DFW Speech & Debate is offering HEART of Texas member-supporters  (with current Family ID) 10% off their Summer Camp fee.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

 

Back to SUPPORT GROUPS

Back to the top    

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
89.  DENTON COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ASSOCIATION

This group has no announcements this month.

Back to SUPPORT GROUPS

Back to the top 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
90.  IRVING HOME SCHOOLERS

A support group for families in Irving and all surrounding communities.

Time:
7pm
Details:
We are a volunteer, non-profit organization committed to serving home school families in Irving and all surrounding communities. Our mission is to reach out to all homeschooling families - providing resource information, ongoing activities, and support. All are welcome. We meet the 1st Thursday of the month (Sept. - May except Dec.) at Lee Park in Irving.
For more information:
click here


Back to HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES

Back to the top  



Back to SUPPORT GROUPS


---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
91.  PEACH

A support group for families in the Plano area
Click Here for More Information


Back to SUPPORT GROUPS

Back to the top  
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
92.  OFFICIAL 2012-2013 COLLEGE BOARD TEST DATES

2014 PSAT TEST DATES:
We will announce the 2014 dates when they are available. 
To Find out When Your Local High School is Offering the PSAT Test:  Click Here

PSAT TESTING FEE:  $14 (some schools charge an additional fee to cover administrative costs)
Homeschoolers who take the test at their local public school should not be charged more than the school charges its own students.  The College Board makes fee waivers available to schools for students in eleventh grade from low-income families who can't afford the test fee. See the school counselor for more information about fee waivers.  Special testing situations are also available for special needs students.  Ask the school counselor for more details.

2014 SAT TEST DATES:

TBA

For SAT Subject Test Calendar:  Click Here


For More Information: http://www.collegeboard.com/student/testing/sat/calenfees.html


Back to COLLEGE PREP

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
93.  MASTER THE SAT CLASSES WITH JEAN BURK

College Prep Genius will be offering their incredible "MASTER THE SAT CLASS" in several Texas cities. This revolutionary course will give students all the tools needed to conquer the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. Students will learn the logical patterns behind standardized test questions as well as necessary strategies that could help increase their test scores tremendously. A high score on the SAT or PSAT/NMSQT can open doors to college entrance and colossal scholarships that could include full tuition, room and board, honors dorms, graduate money and stipends to study abroad! Many of their students have raised their test scores as much as 600 points and received scholarhips over $200,000 from Ivy-League schools. College Prep Genius has been featured on NBC, CBS, Fox, TXA21 and The Homeschool Channel.

Their carefully selected teachers will show students how to ace the SAT so they can raise their scores and get scholarships to college. The SAT and PSAT are tests of logic (not high school subjects) and most students do poorly on them because they don't understand the test. She will teach how to look at the test questions correctly so they don't fall for the wrong answer and she will not only explain why the right answer is right but also why the wrong answer is wrong. Students will gain confidence in their test-taking skills and be given the necessary tools for scoring high on these standardized tests.

Watch College Prep Genius founder, Jean Burk, give speeches on "How to Ace the SAT" and "Free College Can Happen to You" click here

What's Covered in Class:
"Master the SAT Class” is a thorough investigation of the SAT and PSAT including an extensive review of all three test sections: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.


Register at collegeprepgenius.com

Download the e-book “15 Secrets to FREE College” for a penny at www.collegeprepgenius.com  Use code: heart

Discount:  College Prep Genius is offering a $5 discount off classes and products to HEART of Texas family members.  You must have a valid membership card to qualify for the discount.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here
                     
 
Back to COLLEGE PREP

Back to the top
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
94.  BAYLOR & AIR FORCE ROTC (AFROTC) SCHOLARSHIP

Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) have teamed up to provide an enormous scholarship opportunity to help students afford a Christian college education while pursuing their dream in a career in aviation, medicine, science, engineering, law, space, business, etc. 

DEADLINE:  DECEMBER 1, 2014

To Apply:  Visit http://www.afrotc.com/ and fill out the on-line application.


Highlights:

• We appreciate the homeschooled student and know first-hand the talent and intellect they offer.  Our Cadet Wing Commander last Fall was homeschooled and she was outstanding!
 
• Who do we want to help?  Your students interested in leadership who are about to graduate, applying to a service academy (Baylor would be a great Plan B), excels academically, involved in Eta Sigma Alpha or other honor societies and service organizations, as well as competitors of all kinds.
 
• The application deadline for AFROTC high school scholarships is December 1, 2012. 

• AFROTC’s best scholarship (Type 1) pays full tuition and fees (~$25,000/year at Baylor).
The second best scholarship (Type 2) pays $15,000/year. 
The majority of our cadets are on these two types of scholarships.

 
• Baylor is very generous with their merit scholarships which range from $3,000–$14,000/year.  Have your student go to http://www.baylor.edu/admissions/calculator/ and input their ACT/SAT scores and class ranking into the Scholarship Calculator to see what they could be offered.  You will be amazed.
 
•  If your student receives an AFROTC high school scholarship and brings it to Baylor, they will receive the Baylor AFROTC Incentive Scholarship worth $3,000/year.  They get this just by simply bringing the AFROTC scholarship to Baylor!
 
•  Students on scholarship also receive $900/year for books and a monthly, tax-free stipend of $300-$500.  They can use this stipend however they like (cheeseburgers and coffee??).
 
•  A student with a high school scholarship can try AFROTC their freshman year, and if they decide not to continue, they can simply walk away without having to pay back their scholarship.  No kidding!
 
•  If your student does not receive a high school scholarship, there’s an even greater opportunity to receive an AFROTC scholarship once they are at Baylor.  AFROTC has a $60 million scholarship budget to award scholarships from and as of the end of the Spring semester, 86% of Baylor cadets were on scholarship.
 
•  Baylor AFROTC is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year (the Air Force is 61 years old) and for the first time in our history, we are opening an AFROTC Living & Learning Center where cadets have the option to live among themselves.  Visit http://www.baylor.edu/rotc/llc/ for more information.

•  If you would like to come for a visit, we have a “Bunk with a Bear” program where your students can spend the night with a cadet, attend classes, eat with them, meet other cadets, take the campus tour, talk to academic advisors, and get the feel of Baylor. 

For More Information:  Click here to email or call 254-710-3513.


Back to COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
95.  VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE for HOME SCHOOLERS IN 21 COUNTIES ---- AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The American Cancer Society is the largest nonprofit voluntary organization in the world. The Society depends on the competence, creativity and dedication of its 2 million volunteers nationwide to   achieve   its   mission.  Along  with  learning  the value  of volunteering in your community we can offer your home schooled student a way to apply all they are learning in a real world atmosphere.

Counties in the North Texas Region of the American Cancer Society:  Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Rockwall, Parker, Palo Pinto, Wise, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Collin, Hunt, Rains, Kaufman, Ellis, Johnson, Eastland, Comanche, Erath, Hood, Rockwall

For more information:  817-570-0612 or Click Here to email
                                  

Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
96.  BECOME A HOST FAMILY FOR A FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT THROUGH INTO EdVENTURES HIGH SCHOOL EXCHANGE ORGANIZATION

Learn to Laugh in Another Language!

INTO EdVENTURES High School Exchange Organization offers you the opportunity to host a young high school student from another nation in your own home...let these incredible young people from other countries  show you their culture, up close and personal.  Welcome them as a son or daughter...touch their lives, and change their world, and your's too.  The experience will teach you and your children how another family lives across the world, while they, in turn, learn about you and the American culture...many of them love to cook and share themselves and their family with you.. They become part of your family for a lifetime.

Share your heart, your faith, your family and your home with a high school foreign exchange student. 

IF you have children at home, they can learn so much and make a life long friend.  If you do not have kids at home you will LOVE the new dimensions they will add to your life, and the new life they will give to your home.

There are boys and girls ages 15-18 from South america, Asia and Europe.  They bring their wide-eyed enthusiasm and a desire to learn our culture, and in turn share their's.

They will attend your local high school for the academic year.

IF THIS SPEAKS TO YOUR HEART...you can make a huge difference in a young person's life.  You will touch a nation, and change the world!!

All host families are volunteer
Who can become a Host Family:  
Young families with small children, families with teens, empty nesters, grand parents, even single parents!

Our host families must provide:  Room, Board, Food, and Transportation.  Host families
Must also be financially able take in another child.

The students have:  Full health insurance coverage and their own spending money ($200-$300/month, which takes care of personal things or extra things they want, and school activity expenses).  These will not have to be provided by the host family.

Student information:  Our students are boys and girls ranging in age from 15-18.  They are from South America, Asia, and Europe.   They arrive the third week of August, hopefully a week or two before school starts.

They will attend the LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL for either the ENTIRE ACADEMIC YEAR...OR ONE SEMESTER (either spring for fall)  

INTO EdVENTURES will share with the prospective host families the student's & letters to the host family from the student and their parents...  

How are families and students matched:  We do our best to match common interests, etc.  And once a match is made, host families can begin communicating with their new "son/daughter"...usually, the student overseas emails as soon as they hear they have been placed with a family...  THEN, MEETING THEM AT THE AIRPORT IN AUGUST… IS AWESOME!!

For more information:  817-545-5058  or Click Here to email    


Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
97.  MEALS ON WHEELS, INC. OF TARRANT COUNTY SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS AND FRIENDSHIP

Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County is a community based agency that provides meals to the homebound in Tarrant County. Delivering meals is a great community service as well as a unique learning opportunity, and we welcome students, along with adults, to be involved in the meal delivery.  Our clients depend on volunteers to deliver hot, nutritious meals along with care and compassion.

Several home school families currently volunteer for our program and we would like you to join us. 
Weekly and substitute volunteers are needed now. 
Meals are picked up from local distribution sites and delivered to homes within close proximity. 
Delivery typically takes about hour. 
If you join our volunteer team you will feel great ensuring that several Tarrant County neighbors
have received food and a friendly visit.


From a Homeschool Mom's Perspective–by Trudi L.
Benson (age 10) and I started delivering meals when he was two years old.   It's been a very rewarding experience.  We both have learned so much and met some really nice people along the way.  I incorporate our volunteer activities into our daily lessons.

Math:  We count the number of clients, meals, and milks on a route sheet; use a lot of addition and subtraction.

Reading and Spelling:  Letters and words are everywhere on a route sheet.

Science and Health:  We've learned about diabetes and good nutrition.  We also talk about different disabilities.

Social Studies/Geography: We interact with people from different socioeconomic groups.  as we deliver meals, we discuss surrounding terrain, lakes, rivers, and teh weather.  Map reading skills are also developed.

Community Service:  By providing hot, nutritious meals, we help a lot of people in our community.


For More Information:  817-336-0912


Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
98.  MEALS ON WHEELS OF JOHNSON & ELLIS COUNTIES SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS

Volunteers Needed!!!
Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties serves the children of yesterday by helping needy elderly and disabled persons to remain independent and healthy in their own homes by providing home-delivered meals, daily personal contact, and support for individuals and their families. 

Meals-on-Wheels could not operate one day without the help of volunteers.  Dedicated, caring volunteers assist in providing hot, noontime meals.  Not only do our volunteers deliver nutritious meals, they also ensure the safety of our clients.  Daily contact is as important as the meals we serve. 

A meal route takes approximately 45 minutes to deliver with convenient pick-up sites located throughout each county.  By volunteering, you help bring hope, love, and friendship to the elderly and disabled homebound in your community. 

To Volunteer:  817-558-2840 or 972-351-9943.


Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
99.  VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO SERVE MEALS AT THE STEWPOT IN DALLAS

Is your family or support group looking for an opportunity to help the needy?

The Stewpot is a 501c(3) organization that reaches out to the homeless of Dallas by providing meals and other services.

The Stewpot serves 3 meals a day, every single day of the year.

To meet this great need, The Stewpot is seeking volunteers  (individuals or groups of 10-15) to serve a meal once a month.

For more information:  214-746-2785 ext. 320 or Click Here    

Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.  TEXAS GLOBAL EDUCATION AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM

Experience the world and expand your family's horizons this summer!

Open your heart and your home to a global visitor and enable your teenager to stay with a family abroad. 

Details: Texas Global Education and Cultural Exchange provides several one-month home-stay opportunities.

Home-stays (instead of staying in a hotel) have many advantages:

•Experience life from the inside - not as a tourist
•Learn, appreciate, understand and evaluate another culture - and your own
•Establish a close relationship with someone - from another culture
•Develop cross-cultural understanding through communication and interaction

The focus of a cultural exchange is friendship, but lasting friendships and warm memories aren't the only results. Young people who have the opportunity to live with a host family in a foreign country or to host an international youth in their home enjoy a priceless educational experience that better prepares them for a life in a global society.
 
For more information: Call 940.241.3097
Info.texasglobaleducation@gmail.com
www.texasglobaleducation.org


Back to VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Back to the top

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
101. FREE ORGAN RECITALS IN DALLAS

Time: 12pm-12:30pm (followed by a one hour tour of the Center)
Cost: FREE

2014 Recital Dates:
APR 4; MAY 9

Location:  Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora, Dallas, 75201
Details: Recital given by Mary Preston, resident organist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, on the Lay Family Concert Organ. This 30 minute presentation will be followed by a one-hour tour of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
Reservations not required, but requested for groups of 15 or more.
For More Information or for a Group Reservation: 
214-670-3331

View Highlight

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

Back to OTHER EVENTS BY DATE

View Newsletter Headers


----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

102. 2013-2014 GREATER PLANO AREA COTILLION

When:  We will hold three fall and four spring cotillions, excluding December and April. Dates should be considered tentative, however, until the receipt of your invitation approximately two weeks beforehand. Tentative dates for the 2013-2014 year are: 9/15, 10/20, 11/10, 1/19, 2/16, 3/16 & 5/11
Details: We are a fellowship of homeschooling parents offering instruction to teens in etiquette and various forms of traditional dance along with the opportunity to build socialization skills and new relationships for God’s glory. The cotillion is open to homeschoolers aged 12 to 18. 2013—2014 Selective Sundays of the month 4:00 to 7:30 p.m.
Location: Gleneagles Country Club: 5401 W Park Blvd, Plano, TX 75093
Cost: $50 non-refundable, annual registration fee per family; $25/per person for each cotillion (includes meal and dance instruction); parents may R.S.V.P. for dinner as space allows for $25
:

Back to OTHER EVENTS BY DATE

View Newsletter Headers

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you enjoy this newsletter, please consider becoming a member supporter!  For $25 a year, your family can receive all of the benefits of membership, including $15 off THSC annual membership, discounts at various area homeschool stores and other businesses and
organizations that have partnered with us.  

Support groups can also partner with us for just $25/year, which includes a FREE HEART of Texas family membership for the primary leader of the group. Board Members of Partnering Support Groups will also receive a discounted rate to our annual Leadership Conference.  

To learn more about becoming a member supporter:  www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership 
To view our growing list of partners:  www.heartoftex.org/partners/

This newsletter is free to any and all homeschool families and support group leaders who wish to receive it!

HEART of Texas     P.O. Box 211882    Bedford, TX  76095-1882    http://www.heartoftex.org    
To subscribe:  Visit http://www.heartoftex.org  Scroll to the bottom of the page and enter email address in newsletter field.
To unsubscribe, go to: http://www.heartoftex.org/unsubscribe