HEART of Texas

Homeschool with HEART!
Mid-September 2015 HEART OF TEXAS   
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.

MID-SEPTEMBER 2015 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.

Support group meeting listings are free.  
Non-profit clubs and organizations that are in partnership with HEART of Texas can also promote their meetings in our newsletter.  Advertising space is available for those wishing to advertise their businesses, classes, workshops, job listings, or other opportunities.  Special rates and other benefits are given to businesses and organizations which partner with us. Email us for more information about our Partnership Programs.

Additionally, if you or anyone in your homeschool group would like to submit articles, or volunteer to serve on our newsletter or advertising teams, 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.

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MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
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SEPTEMBER
GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY!
HEART OF TEXAS HOMESCHOOL NIGHT WITH FC DALLAS
FC DALLAS vs QUAKES

Game:  October 25, 2016
6pm Kickoff
Cost:  
Save up to 30% on tickets!!

Details: All students, family, and friends are invited to enjoy the last match of the regular season.
Save up to 30% on tickets!!   FC Dallas is a partner with HEART of Texas and is offering these special tickets to our homeschooling audience.  

For More Information:  Click Here


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SEPTEMBER 25 - OCTOBER 18
STATE FAIR OF TEXAS
FAIR PARK, DALLAS

Parking Gates and Ticket Booths:  
Open daily at 7am
Parking: Official State Fair lots -- $15 per space
There is a DART station at the front gate of Fair Park
Wheelchairs, electric carts and baby strollers rentals:  
Gate 10 (Pennsylvania), Gate 5 (Grand) and at the front gate (DART)

Hours of Operation:  
Sunday-Thurdays: 10am-9pm
Fridays-Saturdays: 10am-10pm
State Fair of Texas Midway & Fair Park Museum hours vary.
       
Admission:
$18;  $14 child under 48" in height;  FREE children under age 3;  $14 Seniors ages 60 & older;  
Seniors are free every Thursday (Oct 1, 8, & 15)
Ticket & Coupon Packages: Click here
Purchase Tickets:  Can be purchased in advance at North Texas Kroger Food Stores (at check-out counter or service desk)
Online Tickets:   click here
Group Tickets:  Groups of 20 or more save on advanced group tickets or call 214-565-2917
Food & Ride Coupons:
.50 each
Seasons Pass:  $39.95

Discounts Good Any Day of the Fair (discounts cannot be combined with any offers):
Dr. Pepper HALF PRICE after 5pm:  
Bring empty Dr. Pepper can after 5pm; one can per person.
McDonald's Any Day Discount:
Bring discount coupon (on McDonalds tray liners) and save $5 off general admission or HALF OFF children's tickets (with purchase of general admission).  One coupon per person.

Daily Discounts (discounts cannot be combined with any offers):
Dasani HALF PRICE Opening Day (Sept 25):  
Bring FULL 20oz bottle of Dasani water (or any Coca Cola product) for donation to North Texas Food Bank and get a coupon for HALF PRICE admission on opening day, Sept 25 (one donation per person).
Dr. Pepper $5 Tuesdays:  
Bring empty Dr. Pepper can and receive coupon for $5 admission ticket.  Discounts extend to the Midway - most rides are 6 coupons on Tuesdays.  One can per person.
$4 Admission - any Wednesday:  
Bring 4 cans of food for donation to the North Texas Food Bank any Wednesday of the Fair and recieve coupon for $4 admission ticket.  Enjoy the fair for just $4 and help stock the North Texas Food Bank.  One donation (4 cans)
per person.
Coca Cola $6 Thursdays - any Thursday:  
Bring empty 20oz bottle of a Coca-Cola product and recieve coupon for a $6 admission ticket. One bottle per person.
KISS-FM Fridays - any Friday:  
Save $5 off general admission tickets to the State Fair on Fridays.  Download and print a coupon from the KISS-FM website.  Bring coupon to the gate and admission to the Fair is $13. One coupon per person.

       
For additional information about the State Fair of Texas, check out the FAQs.

To Learn More:  
Click Here

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SEPTEMBER 26
FORT WORTH "DAY IN THE DISTRICT"
FREE ADMISSION

10am-5pm
Cost:  
FREE ADMISSION to 10 destinations

Details: Bring your family out to the celebrated Cultural District in Fort Worth and enjoy
free admission to 10 cultural destinations.  Enjoy family-friendly activities, and live performances by some of Fort Worth
favorite art groups.

For More Information:  Click Here

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SEPTEMBER
"HOMESCHOOLING 101" INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
IN BEDFORD

Time: 7pm-8:30pm
Cost: FREE

LOCATION:
HEB area -- Date and Time TBA

Details:  Thinking about homeschooling? 
Wondering what's involved, how it works, and if it's right for your family?  
Our "Homeschooling 101" informational meetings are designed to teach you the basics of homeschooling and give you the information you need to help you get started on the right foot.   

Some of the Questions answered during the session:
What is required to homeschool in the state of Texas?
Where can I find curriculum?
What about teacher certification?
How do homeschoolers perform on standardized tests?
Can homeschoolers go to college?
How do homeschoolers perform in the real world?
and MORE!!

For Registration or Questions:  Click Here


Other Homeschooling 101 Informational Meetings: TBA 
If you would like to help us provide Info Meetings throughout North Texas, p
lease contact us
via our website.  

BECOME A MENTOR!!
Mentors Needed for our NEW Homeschool Mentor Program.  Mentors assist new homeschool families with getting started on their journey.  It is not a tutoring service or classes for homeschool students.  This is strictly a ministry to adults who are seeking help in getting started homeschooling their children.  If you are a veteran home school mom or dad homeschool group leader and would like to stay connected to the homeschooling community by serving in this way, we would love to hear from you. For more information, please contact us via our website.

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SEPTEMBER 27
TOTAL LUNAR ECLIPSE
7:30PM ON SEPT 27 TIL 12:30AM ON SEPT 28

In the US, Canada, and Central and South America, this rare Total Lunar Eclipse of a Supermoon will begin on the evening of September 27, 2015. In Europe, South/East Asia, Africa, the Arctic, and in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian Oceans it starts after midnight on September 28, 2015.

Also called a Blood Moon this eclipse will last for about 1 hour and 12 minutes.

To view the animation for how the total eclipse will look, click here.

To view Nasa's brief (3 min, 11 sec) video explaining the event: click here

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SEPTEMBER
READING PROGRAMS

Chuck E. Cheese -- Read 14 Day & Get 10 free tokens
Expires Dec 31, 2015
Download the Reading Log Here

H.E.Buddy Reading Program -- Read 10 books for tee shirt & prizes.
Download Reading Log.
Form must be postmarked by October 1, 2015
Program is intended solely for children who are residents of Texas between the ages of 3-12.


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SEPTEMBER 30
REGISTRATION DEADLINE 
FOR HOMESCHOOL DAY AT FORT WORTH ZOO

OCTOBER 1 -- Home School  Day at the Fort Worth Zoo
Admission:
$6 Adults (13+);  $4.50 ages 3-12;  FREE ages 2 and under
Online Registration: Click Here  (Online registration closes at 5pm on Sept. 30)
Tickets nonrefundable, non-exchangeable and no rain-checks will be issued
At the Gate Admission:  $7 Adults (13+);  $5.50 ages 3-12

Home school students and 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 aksing Zoo staf your best animal questions around the Zoo's world-class exhibits.

Parking:
 $5 per vehicle.
Featured Programs:  
    Animal Senses (
Noon-2pm): Explore your five senses and learn how animals use their senses to survive.
   
Egg-Cellent! (11am;  1pm;  3pm): Discover eggs-traordinary facts about animals that lay eggs.


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OCTOBER 3

HORSEMANSHIP DAY CAMP
AT CAMP TONKAWA


10am-2:30pm
Cost:
$50/rider; Parents or scout leaders who will NOT be riding are FREE. Group Rate available for 12+ participants. Camp will not be held for less than 6 participants.
Location:   Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center, 1036 CR 203, Collinsville, TX  76233
Details: Ages: 7 and up. Adults welcome.
For Information: 
940-440-8382 or Click Here to email

To view other camps offered at Camp Tonkawa, click here

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

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OCTOBER 5 & 19

HOMESCHOOL CLASSES 
AT FOSSIL RIM


OCTOBER 5 -- Wolves:  Friend or Foe? Class + Behind-the-Scenes Tour
10am-3pm
Cost:
$28/person
The relationship between man and wolf has been a rocky one.  We have made pendulum swings from trying our best to wipe them off the face of the earth… to straining to save them at all costs.   Fossil Rim currently has Red Wolves, Mexican Grey Wolves and Maned Wolves. Discover the habits and history of these amazing animals, and spend some incredible moments watching our resident  wolves – possibly all three species! 
For homeschoolers age 7 and up.  
To Register: 254.897.2960.

OCTOBER 19 -- 
Fossil Fun!  Class/Dig + Tour 
Time: 1
0am-3pm
Cost:
$23/person
Fossil Rim used to be under a whole lot of water!  Many sea creatures left a lot of interesting evidence that they lived here - evidence found in rocks!  Find and identify fossils, understand them and how they got here, even take one or more home! 
To Register: 254.897.2960.

To view other classes at Fossil Rim:  click here

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OCTOBER 10-18

EDUCATOR APPRECIATION WEEK
BARNES & NOBLE BOOKSTORES


All of the Barnes & Noble stores will be hosting at least one event geared specifically toward homeschoolers.  During this week, educators will receive extra discounts, free give-a-ways, and we will be doing exclusive previews of our Mini-Maker Faire products, including a 3D printer demonstration.  

To learn about the Barnes & Noble Educator Discount Card (available in-stores only): click here

Your HEART of Texas membership card can be used to verify that you are a home educator for the purpose of applying for your discount card.  To learn about HEART of Texas membership, click here 

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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
CERTIFIED MASTER PHYSICS TEACHER

Highly respected high school and college Physics teacher, Mr. Jim Sitton, recently retired from full time teaching and is now offering his Physics course to high school age homeschool students. This is a complete Physics Laboratory course, taught in his family home, using Mr. Sitton’s personal extensive inventory of high school and college Physics apparatus.

Mr. Sitton has received over 70 awards for teaching excellence from institutions such as The American Association of Physics Teachers, The University of Texas, Who’s Who Among American Teachers, The Dallas Morning News, The University of New Mexico, The United States Navy, and Irving ISD. In addition, he has been the perennial selection as “Favorite Teacher” by students on his campus. His Physics students have gone on to acquire scholarships and experience great success at every major university in the continental United States as well as many in foreign lands. With over four decades of Physics teaching experience he is recognized statewide as a true “Master Physics Teacher”.

Course Highlights:
    •    Mr. Sitton caters his course to the needs of his students.
    •    Text will be: Exploring Creation with Physics 2nd Edition
    •    Apologia Physics curriculum comprehensively covered in one year (two semesters)
    •    Prerequisite – Algebra
    •    One class per week. Typically three hours each. Students usually spend 50% of class time doing actual hands-on lab work.
    •    Over 300 intriguing Physics demonstrations are presented using unique time tested handmade equipment.
    •     Jim Sitton, BS, MS, is fully certified in Physics, Advanced Placement Physics, GT Physics, and Mathematics.
    •    He is an enthusiastic teacher who actually makes Physics interesting.
    •    Parents are always welcome anytime in Mr. Sitton’s Classes.
    •    Sixteen total sessions per semester.
    •    Anyone wishing to meet the Sittons (Mrs. Betty Sitton is also a 35 year teaching veteran) before enrolling, is welcome at their home anytime by appointment. You can see the facilities where the course will be taught and get a glimpse of how a real Physics teaching lab is set up.

To Register:  click here to download the registration form.
For more information, to arrange a visit, or to obtain a registration form, contact Jim Sitton at 469-672-6622 or click here to email


Discount:
 
Mr. Sitton 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

Testimonial:  
Dear Jim Sitton,
It has been 2014 – 1989 = 25 years since I graduated. Wow! You must really love teaching. I owe a lot of what I do today to you and your efforts. Today, I am an electrical engineer working at Advanced Micro Devices in Austin, Texas. I remember so much from your classes. The daily demonstrations were my favorite. Each day, I could not wait to see what you were going to do to keep us captivated. You have made a great impact on the lives of kids. Here’s to the best of the best in my book. Thank you for teaching!
Best Regards,                                      
Cass Arnett



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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
HOMESCHOOL PE PROGRAMS
ROANOKE, PROSPER, HALTOM CITY, McKINNEY, FLOWER  MOUND

PE 101 is a 90 minute class that allows students to explore many sports in a short time. This porogram is designed so that students can be active and learn about athletics and team sports. Each class begins with a dynamic warm-up and stretch. We rotate through agility sations and drills.  Each unit of study includes sport specific drills and games, including rules of the game, strategy and the fundamentals required to play.  We also enjoy fun classic games like kickball, dodgeball, whiffleball and capture the flag.  

Roanoke Classes:  
Meet Fridays at 10:30am
Location: Ronoake Recreation Center, 501 Roanoke Rd, Roanoke, TX 76262
Click Here to register.

Prosper Classes:  Meet TBD 
Click here to register

Haltom City Classes:  Meet Tuesdays at 9:30am
Location:  Haltom City Recreation Center, 4839 Broadway Ave
Click here to register or 817-831-6464

McKinney Classes:  Meet Thursdays at 10:30am
Location:  McKinney Community Center, 2001 S Central Expy, McKinney, TX 75070
Click here to register

Flower Mound Classes:  Meet Tuesdays at 12:30pm
Click here to register

Discount:  HEART of Texas members (with current HEART of Texas member card) will receive a $5 discount off monthly class fees.  Some classes are eligible to combine for an additional sibling discount - ask at registration.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership
 
Email:  click here to email or 817-929-3333

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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
TCIIS
REGISTRATION OPEN
UNDERSTANDING ISLAM ONLINE COURSE

This 16-week, three-hours per week online course includes everything you need to know about Islam, including the history and development of Islam, the five pillars of Islam, beliefs and practices of Muslims, Muhammad, the Qur’an, the hadith, sharia law, women and Islam, terrorism, sects and movements within Islam, and practical instruction on evangelism and ministry to Muslims.
My name is Mark Pfeiffer.  I am an evangelical Christian lawyer with a Master’s degree in Islamic Studies. I have lived and worked in the Middle East, and traveled extensively throughout the region, including various parts of Iran. I teach Islamic Studies courses at Christian colleges and universities, including Houston Baptist University, Dallas Christian College, and several others.  I founded The Christian Institute of Islamic Studies five years ago to educate and equip the church to effectively minister the gospel to Muslims. 
I am making the course “Understanding Islam” available to homeschoolers through my TCIIS website.  I recommend the course to high school homeschoolers only, as the course is virtually the same one I teach at the university level. 
 *Through 8/31, tuition is discounted 50%. HEART members take an additional 10% off using your special "members only" discount code, which is available by emailing HEART of Texas. Please include "DISCOUNT CODE" in the subject line when you inquire. Please i
nclude your name, address, and phone number.
*Dual credit (not yet available but in progress)                  
 For more information, please visit the website of The Christian Institute of Islamic Studies, www.tciis.org and click on “Courses.”
I hope this will be of interest to you and your teenagers.  If you have questions, please write me at markp@tciis.org.

Discount:
 
HEART of Texas members (with valid membership card) can receive an additional 10% off the course using your special discount code, which is available by emailing HEART of Texas.  Please include "DISCOUNT CODE" in the subject line when you inquire. Please include your name, address, and phone number so we can verify membership and get back with you with the code.  If you are not yet a member, but would like to join see link below.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
PHYSICS & CHEMISTRY CLASSES
IN SOUTHWEST FORT WORTH

Registration is now open for Physics & Chemistry Classes in SW Fort Worth!

2 Hours of Instruction/week
3-6 Hours of Homework/week

Location:  SW Fort Worth
Cost: $360/semester
Class Size: 8 Students
Documentation for Transfer Credit

About the Teacher:
Bachelor Degrees:
Zoology
Petroleum Engineering
Secondary Science Education
Private High School Instructor (9 yrs)

Email:  westclifftutoring@gmail.com
Website: westclifftutoring.com

Discount:  WestCliff Tutoring is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid membership card) a 5% discount on Physics & Chemistry Class Tuition.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
BOOKING FOR FALL 2014 AND BEYOND!
RIVER ROAD CHATEAU WEDDING VENUE

Elegant Country. . . outside and in!

Weddings are special days, but we feel they should be elegant, unique, and affordable… amid nature and antiques, a true mix of casual and traditional!
Our country-French, just under 5,000 square foot Chateau, is situated on 76 acres of farmland peppered with trees, fields, creeks and bridges .

We are located in Anna, TX, just north of McKinney, TX. 

We would be honored to show you the simple, romantic possibilities River Road Chateau has to offer. We treat you as family with all newly weds taking home a jar of homemade jam, grown and canned from the orchard trees of the place you were married!

Come and experience an amazing wedding! 

"Hospitality has always been an important part of our home from classes, hayrides, campouts, church picnics, to fireworks shows. Though we may open a wedding venue up for business, we do not ever want you to forget, you are first a guest in our home." – Jessica Hulcy, Owner

For more Information: RiverRoadRetreat.com or call 972-567-1001

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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 named "Best Golf Instructor Denton County 2011, 2012, and 2013" and a member of the PGA President’s Council for his continuing efforts to promote and grow the game of golf.

Program scheduled to begin week of Sept. 8 and end week of Nov. 3 (no clinics week of Oct. 6)

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

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

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE
Sept -- Reading Programs
Sept
-- Amon Carter Museum Exhibits
Sept -- Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits
Sept -- Kimbell Museum Exhibits
Sept -- Nasher Sculpture Center Exhibits
Sept -- Camp Tonkawa Camps and Activities
Sept -- Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
Sept -- Dallas Arboretum
Sept -- Fort Worth Botanic Garden Programs
Sept -- Texas Discovery Gardens
Sept -- Library Used Book Sales Across North Texas
Sept -- Library Programs
Sept -- Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs (Select Parks)
Sept -- Purtis Creek State Park -- Athens
Sept -- Cedar Hill State Park -- Cedar Hill
Sept -- Ray Roberts Lake State Park -- Denton
Sept -- Eisenhower State Park -- Denison
Sept -- Fort Richardson State Park/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway -- Jacksboro
Sept -- Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway -- Mineral Wells
Sept -- Tyler State Park -- Tyler
Sept -- Lake Tawakoni State Park -- Wills Point
Sept -- 3D Films at Perot Museum's Hoglund Foundation Theater -- Dallas
Sept -- Films at Omni/Imax (FW Museum of Science & History)
Sept -- Homeschool Classes at the Fort Worth Zoo
Sept --  "Homeschooling 101" Informational Meetings
Sept -- Perot Museum:  Open Enrollment for Homeschool Classes
Sept -- Perot Museum: Open Enrollment for Junior Master Naturalist Program
Sept -- Registration Open:  Ft Worth Symphony Orchestra's Young Persons Concerts
Sept -- Discount Tickets for Oct 25:  FC Dallas vs Quakes - HEART of Texas Home School Night
Opens Sept 11 -- Perot Museum's Hoglund Foundation Theater:  Jerusalem 3D
Opens Sept 14: Ft Worth Omni Theater: D-Day Normandy 1944
Sept 24 -- LLELA [Homeschool Nature Science Class]:  Web of Life (K-2); Entomology (Gr 3-8)
Sept 24; Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 -- Lewisville Public Library:  STEAM Activities (Thursdays through Dec 3)
Sept 18-Oct 17 -- Artisan Center Theater [Children's Theater]:  Aladdin, Jr.
Sept 18-Oct 25 -- Dallas Children's Theater:  Fancy Nancy the Musical
Sept 20 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Birds on the Move, Oak Motte
Sept 22 -- Fossil Rim:  Rhino Reality Class & Behind the Scenes Tour (ages 7 & up)

Sept 24 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum: How to Care for Your Family Treasures
Sept 25 - Oct 18 -- State Fair of Texas -- Fair Park, Dallas
Sept 25 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Preschool Discovery Club
Sept 25 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum [Fun on the Farm]:  Johnny Appleseed
Sept 25 & 26 -- LLELA: Migration Bird Banding (ages 7+)
Sept 26 -- Fort Worth "Day in the District" (Free Admission)
Sept 26 -- Fort Worth Botanic Gardens: Iris & Daylily Sale
Sept 26 -- LLELA: Kayak Tour (ages 7+);  Twilght Kayak Tour (ages 16+)
Sept 26-Oct 4 -- Casa Manana: Fiddler on the Roof
Sept 26 -- Old Red Museum:  Border Studies
Sept 26 -- Nasher Sculpture Center [Kids Club]
Sept 27 -- Total Lunar Eclipse [7:30pm on Sept 27 – 12:30am on Sept 28]
Sept 27 -- Lewisville Public Library: Legomania!
Sept 27 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Soils & Plant Community
Sept 28 -- Lewisville Public Library: Maker Mondays -- Legos
Sept 28 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Full Moon Paddle
Sept 30 & Oct 7 -- Lewisville Library: Intro to Microsoft Powerpoint for Students (Two Part Class)
OCTOBER 
Oct -- Old Red Museum:  On the Homefront: Dallas During WWII (through June 2016)
Oct 1 -- Fort Worth Zoo: Home School Day (Online Registration Ends Sept 30)
Oct 2 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum:  Home School Day - Life at the Farm
Oct 2 -- Nash Farm [First Fridays at the Farm]: Campfire Cooking
Oct 2 -- Plano Children's Theater: CATS (Plano)
Oct 1, 8, 15, 22, 29  -- Lewisville Public Library:  STEAM Activities (Thursdays through Dec 3)
Oct 3 -- Nasher Sculpture Center [First Saturdays]: Drama
Oct 3 -- Camp Tonkawa:  Horsemanship Day Camp

Oct 3 -- LLELA:  Nature Walk & Camp Fire
Oct 3, 10, 31 -- Kimbell [Kids Drop-In Studio]: Carving in Clay
Oct 3-4 -- Camp Tonkawa:  Breathe AIR (using your senses to connect with nature)
Oct 5 -- Fossil Rim: Wolves: Friend or Foe?  Class & Behind the Scenes Tour
Oct 6 -- Fort Worth Botanic Gardens [Family Discovery Program]: Monarch Tagging
Oct 6 -- Kimbell Art Museum [Pictures & Pages]: Geraldine, the Music Mouse, by Leo Lionni
Oct 9 -- Fossil Rim:
Fossil Fun!  Class/Dig + Tour
Oct 9 -- Registration Deadline for Nov 7 SAT Test
Oct 9; 10; 16; 17; 30; 31 -- LLELA:  Migration Bird Banding (ages 7 and up)
Oct 9-10 -- Fort Worth Botanic Gardens: Fall Plant Sale
Oct 10 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum:  Farmfest 2015
Oct 10-18 -- Educator Appreciation Day:  Barnes & Noble Bookstores
Through Oct 10 -- Artisan Center Theater [Mainstage]: The Secret Garden
Oct 10 -- Lewisville Public Library:  Star Wars Reads Day (for all ages)
Oct 10 -- Camp Tonkawa: Self-Defense Class (Martial Arts)

Oct 10 -- LLELA: Guided Kayak Tour (ages 7 and up)
Oct 10-12 -- Primitive Survival Skills Combo Class (1 & 2)
Opens Oct 11 -- Dallas Museum of Art: International Pop
Oct 12 & 26 -- Perot Museum [Home School Programs]:  Weather Day
October 14 & 17 -- 2015 PSAT Dates (Ask local high school which date they offer the test)
Oct 14 -- Dallas Heritage Village: Barnyard Buddies: Edgar Gets Ready for Bed, by Jennifer Adams
Oct 15 -- Fort Worth Botanic Gardens [Family Drop-In Program]: Pumpkins
Oct 15 -- LLELA [Homeschool Class]:  Habitats & Hazards (K-2); Ichthyology & Herpetology (Gr 3-8)
Oct 16 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum [Fun on the Farm]: Deputy for a Day
Oct 16 -- Nash Farm:  Frugal Farmwife Series
Oct 16 -- LLELA:  Photo Safari (ages 10 and up)
Oct 16-Nov 1 -- Casa Manana: Junie B. Jones the Musical
Oct 16-Nov 7 -- Artisan Center Theater [Mainstage]: Arsenic & Old Lace
Oct 17 -- Nash Farm:  15th Annual Fall Roundup
Oct 17 -- Dallas Children's Theater: Fancy Nancy the Musical (Sensory Friendly)
Oct 17 -- Kimbell Art Museum: Bella Italia Family Festival
Oct 17 -- LLELA: Log House Open House & Night Hike
Through Oct 17 -- Artisan Center Theater [Artie's Children's Theater]:  Aladdin, Jr.
Oct 17-18 -- Camp Tonkawa: Wonders of Water
Oct 18 -- Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra: Flute Choir - Concert
Oct 19 -- Dallas Heritage Village:  Lone Star History Day
Oct 24 -- Fort Worth Japanese Gardens:  Japanese Garden Fall Festival
Oct 24 -- Log Cabin Village:  Frontier Fall Fest
Oct 24 -- Nash Farm:  Bewitched by the Barn
Oct 24 --
Nash Farm[Farmhouse on the Grapevine Prairie]:  Fall Harvest
Oct 24 -- Kimbell Art Museum [Children's Workshops]: Think Like a Curator: Gallery Dioramas
Oct 24-25 --
Camp Tonkawa:  Primitive Survival Skills Class 1
Through Oct 25 -- Dallas Children's Theater:  Fancy Nancy the Musical
Oct 25 -- FC Dallas vs Quakes:  HEART of Texas Home School Night (Discount Tickets)
Oct 25 -- Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra:  "Adventure & Romance" Concert
Oct 26 -- Lewisville Public Library [Maker Mondays]: Contraptions
Oct 29 -- LLELA [Homeschool Class]:  Swamper's Feathered Neighbors (K-2); Ornithology (Gr 3-8)
Oct 30 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum:
Trick or Treat at the Farm (ages 1-9)
Oct 31 -- Perot Museum:  Creatures of Light: Nature's Bioluminescence (Opens)
Nov 1 -- Daylight Savings Time:  Set your clocks one hour backward at 2am
Nov 6 -- Heritage Farmstead Museum [Fun on the Farm]: Let's Build a Scarecrow (ages 2-5)
Nov 9 -- Fossil Rim:  Plants at Home and in the Wild  Class + Tour 
Nov 19 -- LLELA [Homeschool Class]:  Life Cycles in the Swamp (K-2); Mammalogy (Gr 3-8)
Nov 23 -- Fossil Rim:  African Safari Day Camp  
Nov 30 -- Lewisville Public Library [Maker Mondays]: Scratch (programming language)
Sponsor -- Physics Classes Taught By Master Physics Teacher Jim Sitton
Sponsor -- Homeschool PE Classes (Roanoke, Prosper, Haltom City, Flower Mound, McKinney)
Sponsor -- Registration Open: Understanding Islam Course through TCIIS
Sponsor -- Physics & Chemistry Class in SW Fort Worth
Sponsor -- Booking for Fall 2014 -- River Road Chateau Wedding Venue
Sponsor -- Registration Open: Home School Golf Program at Lantana Golf Club

FEATURED ARTICLES
How to Register Your High Schooler for the 2015 PSAT/NMSQT Test -- Anne Gebhart, HEART of Texas

Top Ten Signs That You are Ready for Back-to-Homeschool -- Lea Ann Garfias

Finding Support for Your Home School -- Anne Gebhart, HEART of Texas

Wanted: Homeschool Veterans to Help Get Families Off to a Successful Start


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

NEST Family Learning Offering Discount to Our Newsletter 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

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

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 2014-2015
   
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
4.   BEST Robotics
5.   FIRST Lego League: WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

6.   Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Deadline March 31, 2016 (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

HOME SCHOOL CLUBS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your Club

31.  GEMS Girl's Club
31.  Dallas STEAM Explorers
31.  Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering

BOOK SALES & OUR PARTNERING HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
32.  Library Used Book Sales in North Texasd
33.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
34.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
 
NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS, & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your program
35.  Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
36.  Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
37.  Dallas Zoo -- Dallas
38.  Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
39.  Fort Worth Botanic Gardens -- Fort Worth
39.  Fort Worth Japanese Gardens -- Fort Worth
40.  Fort Worth Zoo Homeschool Classes -- Fort Worth
41.  Fossil Rim
42.  Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
43.  Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
44.  Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
45.  Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
46.  
Nash Farm -- Grapevine
47.  Oliver Nature Park -- Mansfield
48.  Ride with Pride -- Southlake
49.  Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
50.  Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
51.  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
52.  Artisan Center Theater Performances -- Hurst
53.  Breitling Youth Theater/Acting for Children Performances -- Garland
54.  Cantare Performance Choir -- Southlake
55.  Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse Performances -- Fort Worth
56.  CATS Theater Performances -- Arlington
57.  Cottage Theater Performances -- Watauga
58.  Dallas Children’s Theater Performances -- Dallas
59.  Dallas Summer Musicals -- Dallas
60.  Dallas Symphony Orchestra -- Dallas
61.  Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra -- Fort Worth
62.  Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra -- Dallas
62.  Park Cities Studios/The Dallas Conservatory -- Dallas
63.  Plano Children’s Theater Performances -- Plano
63.  Shine -- Plano
64.  Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
65.  Texas Ballet Theater Dance School -- Dance Classes -- Fort Worth
66.  Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
    
ART AND SCIENCE MUSEUMS
67.  Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
68.  Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
69.  Kimbell Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
       Admission to the museum's Permanent Collection is always FREE
70.  Perot Museum -- Dallas
       Homeschool Programs  and Exhibits                                
71.  Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
72.  Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas

OMNI & 3D FILMS 
73.  Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
74.  3D Films at the Perot Musuem in Dallas -- Perot Museum
  

HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
75.  Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
76.  Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
77.  Old Red Museum -- Dallas

SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
78.  Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
79.  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
80.  Aledo Christian School's Basketball, Baseball, Volleyball, Softball Teams -- Aledo
81.  Berne Academy's Varsity Boys Basketball Team -- Lancaster

82.  Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
83.  Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen
84.  Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
85.  Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization -- Registration Open
86.  Elite Track Club/Cross Country Program for Home Schoolers  
87.  Home School Athletic Association
88.  Hulcy Home School PE Classes -- Richardson
89.  Home School PE Classes -- Velocity in Southlake
90.  Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
91.  Parker-Tarrant Home School 
92.  Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
93.  THESA Riders Home School Association
94.  Training For Confidence Martial Arts School -- Colleyville
95.  Best Gymnastics -- Flower Mound
96.  Home School Golf Program -- Lantana Golf Club

SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Become a HEART of Texas Support Group Partner to list your Support Group here!
97.   HEART of Texas Mentor Program
98.  
DFW Speech and Debate Club -- Coppell
99.   Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton

100. Irving Home Schoolers -- Irving
101. PEACH -- Plano

COLLEGE PREP
102.  SAT Test Dates
103.  SAT Prep Classes with Jean Burk -- Across North Texas   

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

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteer opportunities must indicate a direct homeschool interest to be included in this listing.
105.  Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
106.  Learn to Laugh in Another Language: Be a Host Family for a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO                     EdvENTURES
107.  Home School Weekday Volun-Teens Program -- Fort Worth Zoo
108.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals; Friendship -- Meals On Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County
109.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Johnson & Ellis Counties
110.  Home School Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
110.  Texas Global Education and Cultural Exchange Program 

OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
111. Free Organ Recitals -- Dallas
112. Summer Reading Programs -- Summer 2015

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FEATURED ARTICLE

How to Register Your High Schooler for the 2015 PSAT/NMSQT Test
-- Anne Gebhart, Regional Director, HEART of Texas

The beginning of the school year is the appropriate time to contact your local public high school to get your child registered for the PSAT/NMSQT, if you are planning to have your high school student take the PSAT this fall.   The PSAT/NMSQT is only administered once each year, usually in October.  Test scores only count toward the National Merit Scholar awards in a student's eleventh grade year, but it is a good idea for students to take the PSAT/NMSQT for practice in the years preceding their eleventh grade year.

The 2015 PSAT/NMSQT testing dates are October 14 & 17.  Schools will administer the test on only one of the official testing dates.  Check with your local public school to find out which date they are offering the test.

Most high schools begin registering their students during the first couple of weeks of school, so you will need to contact your public school counseling office or principal as soon as possible to ensure that you do not miss the registration deadline.

The PSAT/NMSQT, also called the Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test, is a standardized test that serves as a practice test for the SAT Reasoning test.  It also gives students a chance to enter the competition for scholarships from the National Merit Scholarship Corporation.  Some students, including homeschoolers, have been able to win full scholarships through the National Merit Scholarship competition.  It is wise to encourage your student to learn test-taking skills, take practice tests, and even take the full-fledged PSAT in the 9th and 10th grades for practice.  Even if your child does not earn National Merit status on the PSAT test, the experience of taking the test will help prepare your student for the more intense (and more expensive) SAT test.  

The Texas Home School Coalition was instrumental in getting a law passed by the Texas legislature requiring independent school districts to allow home school students residing within their district to take the PSAT/NMSQT test with their students.  The law went into effect September 1, 2007.

Additionally, the law states that public schools may not charge homeschool students a higher testing fee than they charge their own students.  This means that if the school charges its students $20, homeschoolers cannot be charged more than $20;  if students at the school take the test for free, homeschoolers must be able to take the test at no cost as well.

Some home school parents prefer that their child take the test at a private school which offers the test.  While there is that option, please be aware that private schools are not required to open their testing to those outside of their student body, and are not subject to the state law. 

When contacting your local public school to register your child for the test, if you experience resistance, confusion, or receive conflicting information from the school official, please contact the Texas Home School Coalition by email .  In your correspondence, include the following information:  the date you contacted the school, the school district, the school name, the name of the person with whom you spoke, and the essence of the conversation, including the reason(s) given for not allowing your child to test at their school.  

Since the law has been in effect for several years now, most of the kinks have been worked out; however, there may be a few school districts which may need to be familiarized with the law, and THSC can assist with that if necessary.

When your child takes the PSAT/NMSQT, he will need to include a School Code on his test sheet.  The College Board's code for Texas Home School Students is "994499".

On test day, your student will need to provide a form of picture ID, such as a driver's license, state-issued ID, valid passport, or a school identification card with a picture.  This has been an issue in the past, as homeschoolers do not have school-issued photo ID cards, such as those provided to public school students.

The College Board's listing of acceptable forms of photo ID includes a more accessible and less expensive option for homeschoolers taking the SAT test:  a Student ID Form that can be prepared by a local support group or by the local public school.  If you student does not have a driver license or other "acceptable" form of photo identification, let the school representative know this at the time you register your child for the PSAT test -- do not wait until the day of the test -- and see if they can accept the College Board's Student ID Form for your student taking the PSAT.

The SAT Student ID form can be downloaded from the College Board website and printed on official letterhead.  The form must be dated and accompanied by a "recognizable" photo of the student.   The student will need to sign the ID form in the presence of the organization's representative or public school principal.  The student will also be asked to sign the ID form again at the testing center to verify the signature.  The Student ID Form is valid for one year, and must be presented each time the student tests.  

We hope that this information makes registering your student for the PSAT test a little easier.  If we can help you with any questions, please contact us by clicking here to send us an email.

 

Anne Gebhart, is the regional director of HEART of Texas, and co-founder with Dave, her husband of 25 years.  They have homeschooled their 6 children for 19 years.  For more information about HEART of Texas, or to subscribe to their FREE newsletter of activities, events, and field trip ideas, visit heartoftex.org.  

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FEATURED ARTICLE

Top Ten Signs that You are Ready for Back-to-Homeschool

-- Lea Ann Garfias

Contrary to public opinion, homeschoolers love summer, too. After all, a teaching mom deserves a break, right? Even year-round homeschoolers enjoy the change of pace when friends and activities flow freely.

But all good summer breaks must come to an end. Every year, that end seems to come sooner and sooner. How do you know if your summer break is over and the school year should commence? Here are the top ten signs that even you are ready for Back to Homeschool 2015.

10. Your doorbell is broken. Every day for the past three months, the neighborhood children have come looking for your child – the one with the creative ideas, ability to entertain himself and a friend for hours, and dare-we-say social skills. Daily they demand he lead the block in entertaining and exciting activities. You have finally decided it’s time to give the front door a rest.

9. You are banned from book clubs. After cleaning up at the library and every area book store, you are no longer allowed to participate in summer reading programs for at least one year. Your children mourn that now they will have to read…for free.

8. You are also banned from office supply stores. After you visited, in the space of one week, three office supply stores, a big box store, and two more department stores for those blessed Back to School sales on office supplies, your husband has declared a moratorium on pens, post-its, and composition notebooks. It’s time to hoard your haul.

7. Bookshelves beckon. Where are we going to put the new curriculum for this year, let alone all these notebooks and binders and research material? You’ve started measuring walls for bookshelves and tearing out pictures of shelving from Ikea.

6. Planners don’t count as office supplies. So now we need to buy planners, lots of them. Day planners, lesson planners, family planners, student planners, online planners, scrapbooking planners…We also need a planner to organize the planners. Let’s plan on getting that next.

5. Co-op is calling. Your friends in support group miss you, and your children are asking about their classmates in co-op. Maybe a pre-year planning meeting is in order? Let’s get out the planners…

4. We want to go to a museum. The public is crowding out all the interesting air-conditioned places. Maybe we need to organize a co-op field trip so we can jostle our way to the front. Let’s get out the planners…

3. It’s too hot to do anything else. It’s Texas in August, synonymous with heat and death. There is nothing to do outside but die and there’s little to watch on TV, so we may as well get out the lesson planners…

2. OOPS! The children accidentally learned. It was clearly unintentional. All the neighborhood children had retreated to their air conditioned video game sanctuaries. Yours started playing a Civilization, then had to research an ancient empire, then before you know it they were looking things up in last year’s history books. Just in time, you bit your tongue before you demanded they write a report on their findings. But you did write it down in the lesson planner…
Finally, how do you know for sure it’s time to be back to homeschool?

1. The children keep grabbing the new school books “just to see what they are like” and studying. It’s clearly time. Education is calling.
How do you know you are ready to start homeschooling again? Drop me a line at lagarfias.com/contact. I’d love to hear from you.


Lea Ann Garfias is a writer, musician, and homeschool mom of four in the Dallas area. She helps moms use their ordinary life for extraordinary influence. Join her at lagarfias.com.


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FEATURED ARTICLE

Finding Support for Your Home School
-- Anne Gebhart, Regional Director, HEART of Texas

A couple of years ago I was interviewed by a national news network which was filming a story about homeschooling in America.  One of the questions the interviewer asked me was, "What is the most difficult thing about homeschooling?"  If I had been answering this question twenty-plus years prior, my answer may have been "teaching Algebra or Chemistry" or "finding homeschool curriculum."  

Today, however, with the plethora of homeschooling resources available and an increasing number of curriculum choices to fit just about every educational philosophy and family situation, the issue of teaching a particular subject or purchasing a curriculum is no longer the challenge it once was.  Perhaps the most difficult thing about homeschooling today is knowing where to look for resources such as a local support group, co-op classes, curriculum, or other needs.

Fulfilling that need is one of the primary reasons HEART of Texas was formed.
 HEART of Texas has developed an extensive database of homeschool groups and resources located in North Texas, and part of what we do in serving the North Texas region is to help families get what they need to be successful as they endeavor to teach and train their children.   Our mission is to provide leadership, information, training, and educational support for the families and support group leaders in our regional service area, and to be a point of connection between people and resources.

We fulfill this mission in a number of ways.

We publish a free biweekly enewsletter (such as the one you are reading now) that is chock-full of events and activities going on all across the region.  We host a variety of regional events such as our annual HEART of Texas Regional College Night which draws nearly 100 public and private universities & colleges under one roof; our Regional Home School Expo where families can learn how to get started homeschooling and visit with various organizations that wish to offer classes or other resources to homeschoolers;  informational meetings where new homeschoolers can find out about homeschooling and what it involves; our annual Nuts & Bolts Conference where parents can learn more in-depth how to homeschool from Kindergarten through High School and Beyond;  and other special events directed at homeschool families when we see an opportunity to coordinate an event that will be beneficial.

We also have a ministry to homeschool leaders.  We offer a leader training conference for support group leaders and their boards, Leader Round Table discussions with leaders in various areas to help us gain feedback for how we can better serve their groups, as well as leader appreciation events just to tell our leaders, "thank you for all you do to serve homeschoolers."
We couldn't do what we do if it weren't for the many leaders throughout North Texas giving their time and expertise to help other families.

HEART of Texas also partners with businesses and organizations who wish to provide their services to the homeschooling community, and we pass along those partner benefits to our member-supporter families. To learn how to become a member of HEART of Texas, click here.

We represent homeschooling to community leaders around North Texas, and speak at various community events to help others understand what homeschooling is and find ways that we can work together.  We also work with other homeschool organizations such as Texas Home School Coalition, the state advocacy organization for homeschooling in Texas, to find ways that we can better serve North Texas families.

Every day, HEART of Texas receives phone calls and emails from families looking for help with how to get started, find support groups and other resources, and learn how to educate their children at home in a way that is best for their family. We come alongside those families and guide them to the resources they need.  These requests for support have become more and more frequent as families are choosing, at ever-increasing rates, to educate their children at home.  This is, indeed, an exciting time to be homeschooling, and we are excited to be able to play a part in helping to launch the next generation of homeschool families.

We also have an amazing board of directors who serve with us, and each of them also has a desire to serve homeschool families and help them be successful.

In short, our heart is to build relationships.  
Our motive is to serve people.  
Our agenda is Proverbs 3:27.

If you share this same desire to serve others, we would love to have you as part of our organization.  Please consider volunteering with us and
contact us if you are interested.  If you are a veteran homeschooler or support group leader looking for a way to stay connected with helping homeschoolers, please consider volunteering as a Mentor.  Click here for more information.

Thank you for allowing us the privilege to serve you.
 

Anne Gebhart, is the regional director of HEART of Texas, and co-founder with Dave, her husband of 25 years.  They have homeschooled their 6 children for 19 years.  For more information about HEART of Texas, or to subscribe to their FREE newsletter of activities, events, and field trip ideas, visit heartoftex.org.  

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FEATURED ARTICLE

Wanted: Homeschool Veterans to Help New Families Get a Successful Start

We are excited to announce that we are rolling out our new HEART of Texas Homeschool Mentor Program for homeschooling families!  The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide real-time, face-to-face, one-on-one help for new homeschool moms and dads who are starting their homeschool journey.

If you are a veteran home educator who would like the opportunity to encourage and support the next generation of home schoolers, please consider becoming a HEART Mentor.  Please email Anne regarding the program (include Mentor in subject line) and she will connect you with our Mentor Coordinator.



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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.

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FEATURED ARTICLE

NEST Family Learning Offering Special 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.

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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

Spring 2015-2016 Dates
TBD


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

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FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY

CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location:      500 W. 3rd St
        817-871-7701

DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location:      NE 35th Street
        817-624-7331

EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location:      4300 E. Berry St.
        817-536-1945

EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location:    6301 Bridge St.
        817-871-6436

MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location:      2800 Stark St.
        817-451-0916

NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location:    601 Park Street
        817-626-8241

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


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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


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


2015-2016 Events
THURSDAYS at 4 p.m. (SEPT 10 - DEC 3)
STEAM Activities
Our weekly S.T.E.A.M. activities incorporate age-appropriate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics especially for students in grades K-2. Space is limited, and a free ticket is required to attend. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis at the Youth Services desk beginning 30 minutes before the start of class on the day of the event.
 
SEPT 30 & OCT 7 at 4:30pm (Two Part Class)
Introduction to Microsoft PowerPoint (for students in grades 4-5)**

**Pre-registration is required.  Call 972-219-3577 or visit the Youth Services desk to sign up.


2015 MONTHLY EVENTS FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES
4TH SUNDAYS (SEPT 27; OCT 25; NOV 22)-- LEGOMania! (for all ages)*
 
2nd MONDAYS at 7pm -- Family Craft Night (for all ages)*
Sept. 14; Oct. 12; Nov. 9; Dec. 14
 
*Note: Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult during these events.


2015 SPECIAL CHILDREN’S EVENTS
OCTOBER 10 -- Star Wars Reads Day (for all ages)
We love to celebrate this annual event!  More details coming soon – visit or call the Youth Services Desk for more info!
 
OCTOBER 31 -- Halloween ComicFest (for students in grades K-5)
Kids in grades K-5 can “trick-or-treat” for a free Halloween-themed mini-comic book while supplies last. We will have small prizes for younger children, too!  Costumes encouraged.
 
NOVEMBER 25 at 3pm -- Thanksgiving Break Movie (for students in grades K-5)
Join us for a free afternoon matinee!  Movie TBA.
 
DECEMBER 19 -- Teddy Bear Sleepover (for all ages)
What will your stuffed animal do after the library closes?  Have a blast! 
Drop off your stuffed animal Friday, December 18, between 3 p.m. - 4:45 p.m. 
Pick up your animal on Saturday, December 19, between 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 
This event is presented by the Lewisville Public Library Teen Advisory Group.
 
DECEMBER 31 at 11:30am -- Noon Year’s Eve Party (for all ages)
It’s OK if you have an early bedtime!  We’ll count down and ring in the New Year early so that nobody has to miss out on a little New Year’s Eve fun!


CLASSES AND ACTIVITIES FOR MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOL-AGE STUDENTS
LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH at 4:30pm -- Maker Mondays
Put your creativity to work in these maker workshops for teens (grades 6-12)!
September 28 - Lego
October 26 - Contraptions
November 30 - Scratch (programming language)
 
THIRD THURSDAYS at 7pm -- Teen Advisory Group (Grades 6-12)
Calling all teens!  Let your voice be heard -- help create the teen experiences you would like to see at your library.
Pick up an application at the Youth Services Desk.


We look forward to seeing you at the library!


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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  


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

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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

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TYLER PUBLIC LIBRARY
(all events are free and open to the public)
Location:  201 S. College Ave
One block southwest of the square in downtown Tyler
Contact: Evelyn James – 903-593-7323 – programs@tylertexas.com

Preschoolers DayCare StoryShare
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
Time:  10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Friends share stories, songs, and books with childcare groups.
Please email or call to register

ReadAloud Crowd
WEDNESDAYS &  THURSDAYS
Time:  10:30 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”


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ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS
The Southeast Branch of the Arlington Library is starting a program called: “Homeschool Thursdays”. Being held every other Thursday from 1:30pm to 3:00
and will include science projects, books, crafts, poetry and more.
 
(Events are free)

Event Dates:  TBA
 
For More Information: Contact Here
 

Finding Your Own Voice (Junior High) 6 week session
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: Click Here
 
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2.  BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM

MAY 1, 2015 -- 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, 2015)

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


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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  
   
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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 2014-2015 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.


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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


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5.  FIRST LEGO LEAGUE:  2015 FLL WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

Challenge Release: Click here for more information about the 2015 FLL WORLD CLASS Challenge

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

About the 2015 Challenge:  We’re not talking trash – we’re cleaning it up!  In the 2015 FIRST® LEGO® League TRASH TREKSM Challenge, 290,000 children ages 9 to 16* from over 80 countries will explore the fascinating world of trash.  From collection, to sorting, to smart production and reuse, there is more to your trash than meets the eye.  Join FIRST LEGO League teams on a Trash Trek to discover the hidden (or not so hidden) world of trash!

FIRST LEGO League (FLL®) challenges kids to think like scientists and engineers.  During the TRASH TREKSM season, teams will choose and solve a real-world trash problem in the Project.  They will also build, test, and program an autonomous robot using LEGO MINDSTORMS® technology to solve a set of missions in the Robot Game.  Throughout their experience, teams will operate under FLL’s signature set of Core Values, celebrating discovery, teamwork, and Gracious Professionalism®.
- See more at: http://www.firstlegoleague.org/challenge/2015trashtrek#sthash.lfo2nw30.dpuf


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.

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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



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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


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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.

To view Solutions for each round of the USAMTS
:  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.)

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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.

To Learn More:  Click Here

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


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10. TEXAS BEEF LEADERS OF TOMORROW CONTEST

DECEMBER 1, 2014 – Contest Registration Deadline
(This is an annual contest -- Date TBD)

Who Can Participate:
Any student, aged 17-20 (not over 20 by Sept 1 of the contest year), 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


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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
    

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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.
    

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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.
    

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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/
 

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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. Since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.


24th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2015 ART COMPETITION
Open to all high school students living in the 24th Congressional District, including homeschoolers.

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.
SUBMISSION DEADLINE:  APRIL 13TH, 2015 (Stay Tuned for next year's competition)
For More Information or to Enter: click here



26th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2015 ART COMPETITION
The juried contest is open to public, private and home-schooled high school students residing and/or attending schools located in the 26th Congressional District.  Each art teacher may submit up to 5 entries with no student allowed to submit more than one entry; all works must be submitted as a group through the art teacher. 

The Grand Prize is the display of the winning student's artwork for an entire year in the U.S. Capitol. 
The First Place winner will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in my Lake Dallas district office for the upcoming year.
 
From Monday, March 30th through Friday, April 3rd, all qualified submissions will be posted in a virtual gallery on my website: http://burgess.house.gov.    The "Best of School" awards will be selected by the art juror and will be given to one student artist from each school; as a finalist, they will have their artwork further considered for the Grand Prize and First Place. 
 
In addition, the public will be able to vote online for their favorite pieces in a virtual gallery on my website; the artwork earning the most votes will be named the "Texas Choice" winner.  Please encourage your school's students and teachers to vote for their favorites online.  On Tuesday, April 7th, the "Texas Choice" and "Best of School" awards will be announced online and via email to art teachers.  Art teachers must then deliver finalists' artwork on April 13th or 14th to Congressman Burgess' Lake Dallas district office or the Center for the Visual Arts in Denton.
 
Competition finalists, their parents, teachers and school administrators will be invited to attend a reception on Monday, April 27th, at 5:30 p.m. to view the "Best of Schools" and "Texas Choice" artwork on display at the Center for the Visual Arts in Denton.  All the student finalists will be honored during the reception.  The Grand Prize and First Place winners will be announced at the reception.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:  5pm MARCH 23, 2015 (Stay tuned for next year's competition!)
For More Information or to Enter: click here



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16.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION - WATAUGA

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

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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


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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.



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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


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20.  EASTFIELD COLLEGE

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


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21.  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
    

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22.  HOMESCHOOLERS EAST CO-OP CLASSES -- EAST DALLAS
    
Classes Offered:
Mock Trial I (Grades 1-3)
Mock Trial II (Grades 4-6)
Model United Nations (Grades 9-12)
Youth and Government I (Grades 6-8)
Youth and Government II (Grades 9-12)
Ballroom Dancing (Grades 4-6)
Readers’ Theater I (Grades 1-3)
Readers’ Theater II (Grades 4-6)

Contact For More Information:  Click Here to send an email

Location:  The Summit Church
        4101 East Park Blvd.
        Plano, TX  75074


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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.


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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.

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26.  MORNING GLORY ACADEMY

Morning Glory Academy (MGA) is a classical Christian school located in the Keller area.  MGA uses a college-style schedule of classes, offering classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students study at home according to their family's schedule the other days of the week.  


Contact: 
Grammar School Director Susan Riddle, 817-706-9888 (k-5th).  
              Upper School Director Leslie Kent, 817-905-3861  (6th-12th).

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    



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

REGISTRATION DEADLINE:  August 15

SE Campus 2100 SE Pkwy Arlington TX (Off 20 and New York)
MW Classes
Algebra I MW 1-230
Algebra II MW 230-4

Friday
Geometry -- F -- 9-Noon
Advanced Algebra -- F -- 12-3pm

Cost: 
$175 including software.

For more info contact:
Maurine Amend
mdamend@tx.rr.com
maurine.amend@tccd.edu
972-660-8414
cell:  972-743-9179

Cost:
$175 for class and software.

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

First come first serve


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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.  Testing is also available.

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

For Complete List of Available Classes or More Information:  www.THEOsonline.org

Location:  1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
                Plano, TX 75075
                214-282-6936

For Questions:   Click Here to email


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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


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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



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31.  GEMS GIRLS CLUB

Fall 2015 Registration Open GATE GEMS Girls' Club
Our GEMS club welcomes interested girls of the ages 6 - 13 to come and experience GEMS (Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior)!  We are a mentoring ministry just for girls led by moms with a heart for guiding and training in godliness.  We meet twice a month during the school year at an Allen church, on Wednesdays from 1:30 - 3:00.  Our club meetings include worship time all together in a large group and then small group time with age-appropriate groups.  Our club meetings are fun and dynamic and include various types of activities to learn about Jesus and serving others.  GEMS members can have membership in any local Christian home school organization to attend.  Group size is limited. 

To Learn More About Becoming a Member of GATE GEMS Girls' Club: Email Here
To find out more about the GEMS organization: Click Here


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31.  DALLAS STEAM EXPLORERS

Dallas STEAM Explorers is a Club for students interested in careers in Science, Technology,
Engineering, Tech Art, & Math


Meetings are held the first Monday of the Month at the UTD Campus
Although we recommend that you RSVP, walk-ins are welcome. We encourage parents and/or teachers to attend with students. Participation is free and there is no membership or dues.

For More Information:  
Click Here


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31.  TEXAS ALLIANCE FOR MINORITIES IN ENGINEERING (TAME)

TAME is a science and math non-profit organization geared to create interest in STEM. Regional events take place during the winter.  State events take place in the spring.  There is no cost to families.
If you or your organization is interested in starting up a TAME club, please click here to send
an email
to the Dallas Chair.

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32.  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.
To advertise your library book sale in our newsletter, please contact us by email.


WICHITA FALLS -- OCT 3, NOV 7, DEC 5, JAN 2, 2016; FEB 6, MAR 5, APR 2
Time: Mon: Noon-6pm;  Thu: 10am-2pm; Sat: Noon-5pm
Location: Wichita Falls Public Library
                  600 11th St
                940-767-0868 x248
Books: 3,000 books; .50-$2;  Half-price sale on most books 1st Sat of each month

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BRECKENRIDGE -- OCT 5, NOV 2, DEC 7; JAN 4; FEB 1
Time: Mon: 11am-5:30pm
Location: Breckenridge Library
               209 N. Breckenridge Library
                (enter through back door)
                254-559-5505
Books:  
hardcovers $1 or 6/$5; paperbacks $3/small bag, $4 large bag (bags provided)
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KERRVILLE -- OCT 10; NOV 14; DEC 12; JAN 9; FEB 13; MAR 12; APR 9
Time:
10am-4pm
Location: Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library
              505 Water St.
               830-895-0592
Books:   .50-$2.50, coffee table books $4

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DALLAS -- OCT 8-10
Time:
Thurs: Noon - 7:30;  Fri/Sat: 10am-5:30pm
Location: Lockwood Library
                 11221 Lochwood Blvd
                   214-670-8403
Books:   4,000 books; 100% donated; 70% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; $.50-$2; Sat half price

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EULESS -- Oct 9-11
Time: Sat 10-4; Sun: 1-3
Location: Mary Lib Saleh Euless Public Library
                 201 N. Ector Dr
                 817-685-1679
Books:  
10,000 books; 50% donated; 50% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; paperbacks .50; hardcovers $1
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GRANBURY -- OCT 24-25
Time: Sat 9-6; Sun 1-4
Location: Hood County Library
                222 N. Travis St.
                817-408-2570
Books:  
Thousands of books; .25-$1; Sun $5/box
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DENTON -- NOV 7
Time: Sat: 10-4
Location: North Branch Library
               3020 N. Locust St.
Books:  
paperbacks .50; hardcovers $1
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33.  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


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34.  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


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35.
 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.

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

Location:  
Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center
1036 CR 203
Collinsville, TX  76233
For Information: 940-440-8382 or Click Here to email


CAMP SCHEDULE


OCTOBER 2015
3 --
Horsemanship Day Camp
       Time: 10am-2:30pm
       Cost: $50/rider
3-4 -- Breathe AIR (using our senses to connect with nature)
           Time: 9:30am Sat to 2:30pm Sun
           Cost: $45/person
10 -- Self-Defense Class (basic martial arts)
          Time:  9am-10:30am
          Cost: $50/person
                    or $35/person if taking with Primitive Survival Camp that weekend
10-12 -- Primitive Survival Skills Combo Class 1&2
               Time:  9am-10:30am
               Cost:  $160
               Family rates:  Children 15-13/$130; 12-8/$110)
17-18 -- Wonders of Water
       
        Time: 9:30am Sat to 2:30pm Sun
                Cost: $45/person
24-25 --
Primitive Survival Skills Class 1
                Time: 9:30am Sat to 2:30pm Sun

                Cost: $80/person

NOVEMBER 2015
7 --
Horsemanship Day Camp
       Time: 10am-2:30pm
       Cost: $50/rider
7-8 -- Outdoor Cooking
            Time: Fri 5pm - Sat 8pm
            Cost: $65/adults;  $55/children
14-15 -- Earth & Sky
                Time: 9:30am Sat to 2:30pm Sun
                Cost: $45/person
14-15 -- Native American Indian Camp
                Time:  9:30am Sat to 5:30pm Sun
                Cost: $45/person
21-22 --
Native American Indian Camp
                Time:  9:30am Sat to 5:30pm Sun
                Cost: $45/person
26 -- Thanksgiving Day Pot Luck Feast
           Time:  Noon til Dark (come anytime)
            Dinner at 3pm
            Bring food for your crowd, beverages, dishes
            RSVP: 940-440-8382
            Horseback Riding: $10/half hour (RSVP for a time)

DECEMBER 2015
12 --
Horsemanship Day Camp
        Time: 10am-2:30pm
        Cost: $50/rider
5-6 -- Wildlife Camp
       Time:
Time: 9:30am Sat to 2:30pm Sun
       Cost: $45/15 and under;  $60/adults

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36.  DALLAS ARBORETUM

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 blooming in the middle of winter.

Location:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX  75219
214-515-6500
http://www.dallasarboretum.org  

Hours:  Open Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
(Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & New Year's Day)
Admission: 
$15 for adults (13-64)
$12 for seniors (65+)
$10 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children ages 2 and under
Children's Adventure Garden Admission: $3 (in addition to general garden admission)
Senior Citizens (65+):  $12
Onsite parking:                                                                
$15 per vehicle self-parking or parking garage
$8 daytime parking pass available by online purchase only                                                


DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE (Spring & Summer)

 
FALL EVENTS at the ARBORETUM
SEPTEMBER 19 -- Tour des Fleurs
10K & 20K Races
Presented by W.B. Carrell Memorial Clinic benefiting the Dallas Arboretum
Registration for the 10th annual Tour des Fleurs race is now open.
Register at the Tour des Fleurs website.  

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37.  DALLAS ZOO

Location:
650 South RL Thornton Fwy
Dallas, TX  75203

The Zoo is located 3 miles south of downtown Dallas, on I-35E at the Marsalis exit.

Hours of Operation:
9am-5pm daily
(Closed Christmas Day)

Admission:
Adults (12-64):
  $15 (Mar - Dec);  $5 (Jan-Feb)
Children (3-11):
 $12 (Mar-Dec); $5 (Jan-Feb)
Seniors (65+):
   $12 (Mar-Dec) ; $5 (Jan-Feb)
Children (2 and under):
FREE all year
Parking:
$8 per car

APRIL 11, 2016 -- Homeschool Day at the Dallas Zoo
Time:
9am-3pm
Homeschoolers and their families are invited to spend the day at the Dallas Zoo.  Fun, interactive, and educational activities are available for Kindergarten – 8th grade!
To Learn More:  
Click Here


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38.  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
-Active/Retired
For More Information:    817-392-7410  

Refuge Hours:  8am-5pm daily
Extended Hours Beginning Sept 7 (Labor Day):  
7am - 7pm (Refuge only)
Hardwicke Interpretive Center:
9am-4:30pm daily

Monthly Programs
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.




SEPTEMBER PROGRAMS
SEPTEMBER 4 -- Early Birds
8:30am - 10:30am
FREE (with paid admission).  Preregistration 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 beginning their day. This is the best time of the day to see our fine feathered friends. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from us.

SEPT 5 -- Canoe Tour
7:30-10am
$20 (includes admission).  Preregistration Required
Tour a stretch of the West Fork of the Trinity River to view ducks, herons, beaver and other critters. Sunscreen, water and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Wear shoes that can get wet. Canoes, paddles and lifejackets are provided. Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children. Some previous experience is recommended. Minimum - 5 / Maximum - 12 participants. Meet at Big River Parking Lot.

SEPT 5 -- Greer Island Hike
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission)
The Nature Center began here 50 years ago. Many reptiles, birds, insects and plants have been documented here. Join us as we explore the island and survey which species still call Greer Island home. Recommended for ages 10+. Dress for the weather. Bring water and insect repellant.

SEPT 6 -- Riverbottom Trail Hike
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission)
Come join us for a quiet leisurely hike along the riverbank under the shade of giant cottonwood trees. We will especially look at the grasses and sedges and be amazed at 4 inch thick poison ivy vines climbing 40 feet up into the trees. We will learn to tell the difference between small poison ivy plants and box elder (both have leaves of 3). Dress for the weather. Bring water and insect repellant.

SEPT 12 -- Deer Mouse Trail Hike
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission)
From prairie to riverbottom forest, join us in exploring the diversity of habitats and animals on the Refuge. We will have an opportunity to view prairie dogs, large cottonwood trees, and the West Fork of the Trinity River on this 2.2 mile trail.


SEPT 13 -- Intro to Kayaking
8am - 11:am
$55 (includes admission)
Come explore the fascinating world of kayaking. With instruction from an ACA Certified Instructor you will learn the basics you will need to paddle your own kayak safely and confidently. Kayaks, paddles, and PFD's are provided. Wear clothes/shoes that can get wet and are quick drying because you will get wet during this class. Class size is limited to 8 individuals and each person will paddle their own solo kayak.

SEPT 13 -- Fish Prints
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission
They inhabit our lakes, ponds, and rivers. Come by the refuge to learn about the incredible diversity of freshwater fish in our waters. Bring your family by the Nature Center and make your own fish print without having to catch a real fish.

SEPT 19 -- Birds on the Move, Boardwalk
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission
September means migration season. Join a naturalist as we search in and around the Boardwalk area for birds that are moving through. Stopping by the Lotus Marsh allows birds a source of water as they migrate to the tropics. In years past, Roseatte Spoonbill and White-faced Ibis have made an appearance at the marsh. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from us.

SEPT 20 -- Birds on the Move, Oak Motte
1-3pm
FREE (with paid admission
September means migration season. Join a naturalist as we search in and around the Oak Motte area for birds that are moving through. The Oak Motte provides wooded area for birds to rest and open prairie for a great place to hunt prey. Perhaps we can catch some warblers in the trees resting up for their long trip south. Bring your binoculars or borrow some from us.

SEPT 25 -- Preschool Discovery Club
10:30-11:30am
$10/child (includes admission fee and one adult). Preregistration Required
We invite preschoolers, ages 3 - 5, and their adult companions to join us in discovering the exciting world of nature. Snakes are the spotlight animal for September. We will examine our education snakes up close and learn about their world.

SEPT 27 -- Soils & Plant Community
1-3pm

FREE (with paid admission). Pre-registration required.  Group size limited to 25.
When it comes to plants soil makes all the difference. The Refuge encompasses 9 different soil types each associated with different flora and fauna. Join park staff to compare and contrast several different areas of the Refuge. We will also discuss restoration techniques and survey methods used at the Nature Center. Be prepared to walk approximately 3 miles. Dress for the weather and bring water. Insect repellent highly recommended. This class is approved for Master Naturalist Advanced Training hours.

SEPT 28 -- Full Moon Paddle
$20 (includes admission fee); Preregistration Required.
Come and join us for a different type of canoe tour in the evening hours. This program will present new opportunities, like hearing beavers slap the water with their tails and seeing deer and raccoons. Canoes, paddles and lifejackets are provided. Dress for the weather. Wear shoes that can get wet. Children must be 5 years or older. Parents must sign a liability waiver for minor children. Some previous experience recommended. Minimum - 5 / Maximum - 12 participants. Meet at the Back Gate.


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39.  FORT WORTH BOTANIC GARDENS PROGRAMS

Location:  3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth  76107

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.
Registration required: 817-392-5534
For more information: Click here

Family Drop-In Program (Once a month, April - November)
Come-and-go craft time for all ages, and all supplies are furnished. We meet throughout the Garden. Find out some Garden history from our Garden educator and tour the area with your family! Bring a picnic for afterwards.
6pm-7pm
OCTOBER 15 -- Pumpkins
NOVEMBER 12 -- Flashlight Fun!
For More Info:  Click Here

Family Discovery Program (Once a month, April - November)
Program is for children ages 4 and up.
Free to the public.
Two children per caregiver please.  
No registration required.
11am-Noon
OCTOBER 6 -- Monarch Tagging
NOVEMBER 4 -- Leaves

For More Info:  Click Here

Programs

SEPT 26 -- Iris & Daylily Sale
9am-5pm

OCT 6 - Plant Sale Preview Class
7pm-8pm
A sneak peek at what will be at Plant Sale. Find out interesting facts, tips, and useful information about the plants at Plant Sale.

OCT 8 -- Fall Plant Sale Pre-Sale
5pm-7pm
The Pre-Sale is for Botanical Society members only. Members also get a 10% discount at the Plant Sale.

Oct 9-10 -- Fall Plant Sale
9am-2pm
Take this opportunity to browse among the cream of the crop perennials, specially selected to stand up to all the challenges of Texas gardening. Cozy up to your favorites and adopt them for your own yard! Bring your landscape plan and take advantage of our Horticulture Staff’s expertise in selecting just the right plants for your garden.

OCT 24-25 -- FW Orchid Society Show & Sale
Oct 24: 9am-5pm;  Oct 25: 1pm-4pm

OCT 24-25 -- Fall Festival in the Japanese Garden

Oct 24: 10am-5pm;  Oct 25: 11am-5pm

DEC 5 -- Bird's Christmas Tree
10am-11am
Ft Worth Botanic Garden
FREE Admission
Since 1935, this holiday event draws area children into the Garden to share a little holiday gift-giving with our feathered friends.  Children bring homemade, biodegradable bird feeders to hang in the trees of the Botanic Garden’s “Grove.” 
Important Note:  (Children need to BRING these treats to the Garden rather than make them on site.)  Recipes for feeders are available at the Garden Center’s information desk and on the Garden’s website, www.fwbg.org.  Santa and Mrs. Claus, penguins, B.G. Squirrel, Cardinal, Smokey the Bear will be on hand to welcome children of all ages.  Local students and talent provide musical entertainment.

MAR 1-APR 3 -- Butterfles in the Garden
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
 




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


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39.  FORT WORTH JAPANESE GARDENS

Location:  3320 Japanese Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX  76107

Hours:  March-November (DST):  9am-7pm
November - March (ST):  9am-5pm
Admission:  
$5/adults;  $3/ages 4-12;  $4.50/ages 65+;  FREE/ages 3 and under
Parking is free


EVENTS
OCT 24 -- Japanese Garden Fall Festival
Time:  10am-5pm (Oct 24)
            11am-5pm (Oct 25)
Last admission sold at 4:30pm on both days
Admission:
$6/adults;  $3/ages 4-12;  FREE/ages 3 and under
Enjoy traditional Japanese dance, music, martial arts, sword demonstrations, papermaking, raku, and tea ceremonies.


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40. FORT WORTH ZOO HOME SCHOOL CLASSES

Location:  1989 Colonial Park
Fort Worth, TX 76110
Hours:  Monday-Friday:  10am-5pm
            Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm


OCTOBER 1 -- Home School  Day at the Fort Worth Zoo
Admission:
$6 Adults (13+);  $4.50 ages 3-12;  FREE ages 2 and under
Online Registration: Click Here  (Online registration closes at 5pm on Sept. 30)
Tickets nonrefundable, non-exchangeable and no rain-checks will be issued
At the Gate Admission:  $7 Adults (13+);  $5.50 ages 3-12

Home school students and 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 aksing Zoo staf your best animal questions around the Zoo's world-class exhibits.

Parking:
 $5 per vehicle.
Featured Programs:  
    Animal Senses (
Noon-2pm): Explore your five senses and learn how animals use their senses to survive.
   
Egg-Cellent! (11am;  1pm;  3pm): Discover eggs-traordinary facts about animals that lay eggs.


2015 Home School Classes (Aug 25-December)

Time:  8:45am-10:45am
Cost: $25/student
Ages 6-12
Includes snack, Interactive Lab, live animal presentation, and admission to the Zoo on class day.
Class Schedule:  See listing below for monthly class themes
To Register or For More Information:  Click Here
Location:  Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110

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 FIVE Zoo Home School Classes (notify the zoo and they will have your backpack when you come to class).
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Ages 6-8:
Sight, sound, taste, touch and smell – Explore the five senses and find out how animals use their senses to live in the wild. Each student will learn grade-appropriate information based upon Texas Department of Education standards for science, math, and English language arts.
Aug 25 -- Sight: Raptor Canyon
Sept 8, 22 -- Sound: Texas Wild! Mountains & Deserts
Oct 13, 27 -- Taste: Musuem of Living Art (MOLA)
Nov 10, 24 -- Touch: African Savannah
Dec 8, 29 -- Smell: Australian Outback/Great Barrier Reef
To Register:
 Click Here

Ages 9-12:

All living organisms are arranged into different groups. The more features a group shares, the more specific the group is. Discover the
levels of classification, the history of how scientists have organized different species and what they do when a new species is discovered. Each student will learn grade-appropriate information based upon Texas Department of Education standards for science, math, and English language arts.
Aug 25 -- What are the levels of classification?
Sept 8, 22 -- Key figures that have shaped modern classification
Oct 13, 27 -- How does a species get its name?
Nov 10, 24 -- Word origins & their meanings
Dec 8, 29 -- Discover a new species

To Register:  
Click Here

Ages 13-15:  Fort Worth Zoo's Nature Educators in Training (NET)
Cost:  
$75 (includes 10 one-on-one classes, offered Monday-Friday)
Want to learn more about zoology, ecology and the natural sciences? The Fort Worth Zoo’s Nature Educators in Training (N.E.T.) program provides local high school students the opportunity to learn more about environmental sciences and prepare for their fields of study, as well as earn class credit. Over the course of 10 weeks, students will take 10 two-hour classes and participate in 20 hours of homework, 10 hours of field trips and 10 hours of volunteer work, totaling the state-required 60 hours for class credit.  Classes will take place at the Zoo and are offered five days a week, year-round. (Students who wish to only audit the classes will receive a certificate for 20 hours.)
To apply for the NET program:
1.  Download the application
2.  Email your completed application to the Zoo Education Staff
3.  You will be contacted for an interview time.
4.  After an interview, you will be provided a link to register.



WEEKDAY HOME SCHOOL VOLUNTEENS (ages 12-17)
This program provides local home-schooled teens the opportunity to assist our Zoo Preschool teachers. They help set up, clean up and assist students with crafts and excursions into the Zoo. Volunteens come in once a week for half of the day, either from 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. or 12:45 to 4:15 p.m. The fall session runs from September to December and the spring session runs from January to May. Applications are completed online and interviews are scheduled after the final application date. After interviewing all applicants, the Education staff will make selections. Selected Volunteens are required to attend a mandatory orientation prior to the start of the semester.
For Information about Registering for this program:
Click Here

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


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41.  FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS


Fossil Rim is located 55 miles southwest of Fort Worth and 75 miles southwest of Dallas, near Glen Rose.
GPS address is:
2299 County Road 2008
Glen Rose, Texas, 76043
254.897.2960


HOME SCHOOL CLASSES/EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 22 --
Rhino Reality Class & Behind-the-Scenes Tour (Ages 7 and up)
10am – 3pm

Cost: $28/person
Come see these true giants of the animal kingdom!  We have a small herd of both black and white rhino…watch them, learn about them, find out why a white rhino is poached in South Africa about every 7 hours, and decide what role you will play as they are either pulled back from the brink of extinction… or pushed over!
To Register:  254-897-2960

OCTOBER 5 -- Wolves:  Friend or Foe? Class + Behind-the-Scenes Tour
10am-3pm
Cost:
$28/person
The relationship between man and wolf has been a rocky one.  We have made pendulum swings from trying our best to wipe them off the face of the earth… to straining to save them at all costs.   Fossil Rim currently has Red Wolves, Mexican Grey Wolves and Maned Wolves. Discover the habits and history of these amazing animals, and spend some incredible moments watching our resident  wolves – possibly all three species! 
For homeschoolers age 7 and up.  
To Register: 254.897.2960.

OCTOBER 19 -- 
Fossil Fun!  Class/Dig + Tour 
Time: 1
0am-3pm
Cost:
$23/person
Fossil Rim used to be under a whole lot of water!  Many sea creatures left a lot of interesting evidence that they lived here - evidence found in rocks!  Find and identify fossils, understand them and how they got here, even take one or more home! 
To Register: 254.897.2960.

NOVEMBER 9 --
Plants at Home and in the Wild  Class + Tour        
10am-3pm
Cost:
$23/ person.
Fossil Rim knows that species often become endangered because their habitat (mainly the plants in them) becomes endangered. We face that issue
with Texas species: bees, birds, bobcats, bison….   Learn the roles plants play in preserving biodiversity and how we can help pull plants/habitats and the species in them back from the brink of extinct!  See our pollinator garden and keyhole gardens and get some practical ideas and skills for your own home and yard.
To Register: 254.897.2960.
 
NOVEMBER 23 --
African Safari Day Camp   
9am-4pm
Cost:
$32/person.
There is a story that Africa will tell you if you will listen! 
Get to know the story’s setting, the savanna ecology, and the main characters – zebra, giraffe, rhino, ostrich and cheetah.  Then watch the story unfold… predators looking for prey, prey looking for safety, ‘everyone’ looking for their basic needs and the chance to raise the next generation.  Hands-on activities make the learning engaging and memorable.
End the day by enjoying a guided tour -an opportunity to be immersed in the savanna right here in Texas!
To Register: 254.897.2960

DECEMBER 14 --
Birding:  Beak to the Basics  Class + Modified Tour
10am-3pm   
Cost:  
$23/person. 
This class is held in conjunction with the national Christmas Bird Count, December 14 – January 5.
Join us for fun in the classroom – learning the basics about birds (bird families, feathers and flight, bird behaviors) and birding (finding and identifying birds in the wild); then fun in the field –finding and identifying some of the 200+ bird species of Fossil Rim. 
To Register: 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. 


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41. HAVEN'S HORSES HORSEMANSHIP & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASSES AT CHRIST'S HAVEN

Christ's Haven is offering homeschoolers Christian Horsemanship and Outdoor Education programs at their facility in Keller, Texas.  The classes will be held during the day, while their foster children are at school.

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  

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.


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42.  THE HEARD MUSEUM–HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
 
These Homeschool Classes will introduce your student to the Natural Sciences. Students will experience learning through classroom activities, outdoor field investigations, laboratory science, small group activities and take-home study packets.  Each course curriculum is developed by the Heard Museum's education staff who strive to recognize and meet the needs of home school families.  All curricula are based on current scientific theory.

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


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43.  HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
 
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Location:      Heritage Farmstead Museum
                    1900 West 15th Street
                    Plano, TX
Discount:  Heritage Farmstead Museum is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid membership card)
$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


Preschool Programs:
Fun on the Farm:
Ages 18 months – 5yrs

Time: 10:30am-Noon
Admission: $11 for 1 Adult/1 Child Combo;  $6 additional child;  $3 additional adult
Registration Required
To Register and for More Information:  972-881-0140 
Themes:
Fall Dates for 2015 TBA


Events:

SEPTEMBER 24 -- How to Care for Your Family Treasures
6pm-8pm
Admission:
Cost is $15.00 per person and includes a small gift bag.
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes SEPT 23 at 9pm
To Register:  Click Here or 972-881-0140
Details:  Have you ever wanted to know how to property store your great grandmother's wedding dress, family photographs and letters, or your father's military medals?  This hands-on class will show you how to preserve your family heirlooms.

SEPTEMBER 25 -- Fun on the Farm:  Johnny Appleseed
(ages 2-5)
10:30am-Noon
Admission:
Cost $11 (includes adult and child); $7/additional child; $4/adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes SEPT 23 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here or 972-881-0140
Details:
Learn the tall tale about American pioneer Johnny Appleseed.  Children ages 2-5 learn about themes through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride. Fee includes one parent and one child.  Space is limited.  Registration will close end of business day the Wednesday before each program as long as there is still availability.

OCTOBER 2 -- Home School Day - Life at the Farm
10:30am-1:30pm
Online Registration Ends:  OCT 1 at 9pm
Admission:
$8/children;  $5/adults;  FREE ages 2 and under
Register in Advance and save $1 on Child's Ticket ($7 instead of $8)
Experience life at the farm on Home School Day at the Heritage Farmstead Museum.  Help with farm chores such as chicken feeding and washing clothes the old fashion way.  Other activities include tractor driven wagon rides, tours of the Farrell Wilson house, school house visit, a craft, and so much more!
To Register:
 Click Here or call 972-881-0140

OCTOBER 10 -- Farmfest 2015
10am-2pm
Admission:  
$10/person;  Advance Registration:  $7.50/person;  Family Fun Pack: $25 (4 admissions and 4 lemonades)
Details:  
The Heritage Farmstead Museum presents the Third Annual FarmFest, a fall family event  celebrating our agricultural heritage.  The Farmstead invites you to come and experience a “county fair” type atmosphere including blacksmith demonstrations, tours of the historic Farrell Wilson home, hands on activities, animal exhibits, tractor rides, live entertainment, food, contests, beverages and so much more.  Special exhibits include Tractors and Hit 'n Miss Engines from the Wylie Tractor Club, as well as Romulus and Remus: the Tallest Donkeys in the WORLD.
The Farmstead will also present a new theme for 2015-2016 entitled Our Town featuring two new exhibits. In the Farrell Wilson House Life on the Blackland Prairie 1891 will be on display while the Young House feature Our Town Plano: Remember When.

OCTOBER 16 -- Fun on the Farm:  Deputy for a Day
(ages 2-5)
10:30am-Noon
Admission:
Cost $11 (includes adult and child); $7/additional child; $4/adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes OCT 14 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here or 972-881-0140
Details:
Howdy Partners!  Some varmint has been stealing the Farmstead chickens and we need your help! Follow clues around the Farmstead to locate the robber and put them in them in the Heritage Farmstead Jail.  Children ages 2-5 learn about themes through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride. Fee includes one parent and one child.  Space is limited.  Registration will close end of business day the Wednesday before each program as long as there is still availability.

OCTOBER 30 -- Fun on the Farm:  Trick or Treat at the Farm
(ages 1-9)
10:30am-Noon
Admission: 
$7/children ages 1 and up;  $8/child admission at the gate;  $3/general admission for adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes OCT 29 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here or 972-881-0140
Details:
Put on your favorite costume and come Trick or Treat at the Farmstead.  Activities include trick or treating, chicken feeding, tractor rides, a craft, and so much more!  Open to ages 1-9.


NOVEMBER 6 -- Fun on the Farm: Let's Build a Scarecrow
(ages 2-5)
10:30am-Noon
Admission:
Cost $11 (includes adult and child); $7/additional child; $4/adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes NOV 4 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here or 972-881-0140
Details:
Children will help plow, plant, and water seeds in our children's garden then make a scarecrow to keep watch over our crops.
Children ages 2-5 learn about themes through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride. Fee includes one parent and one child.  Space is limited.  Registration will close end of business day the Wednesday before each program as long as there is still availability.

NOVEMBER 13 -- Fun on the Farm: Thanksgiving on the Farm (ages 2-5)
10:30am-Noon
Admission:
Cost $11 (includes adult and child); $7/additional child; $4/adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes NOV 11 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here  or 972-881-0140
Details:
Help us prepare for Thanksgiving at the Farmstead. Children ages 2-5 learn about themes through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride. Fee includes one parent and one child.  Space is limited.  Registration will close end of business day the Wednesday before each program as long as there is still availability.

DECEMBER 11 -- Fun on the Farm: Reindeer Friends
(ages 2-5)
10:30am-Noon
Admission:
Cost $11 (includes adult and child); $7/additional child; $4/adults
Registration Required
Online Registration Closes NOV 11 at 11:59pm
To Register:  
Click Here  or 972-881-0140
Details:
Learn about Reindeer and even play a few Reindeer games.  Children ages 2-5 learn about themes through a story and a unique activity, enjoy a fun craft project and have a wagon ride. Fee includes one parent and one child.  Space is limited.  Registration will close end of business day the Wednesday before each program as long as there is still availability.



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:  $3 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.

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                                                   
           

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44.  LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING AREA

Hours of Operation:  
Winter Hours (Nov 1-Mar 1):  Fri, Sat, & Sun:  7am-5pm

Summer Hours (Mar 2-Oct 31):  Fri, Sat, & Sun: 7am-7pm

Entrance Fees:

$5 person;  Children 5 and under FREE
Cash payments only;  Prescheduled groups can pay by check or cash.
Annual Passes:  
$30/Individual;  $60/Family

FALL EVENTS 2015:  
SEPTEMBER 25; 26 -- Migration Bird Banding (ages 7 & up)
8pm-10pm
Cost:
$20/person;  ($60/family of 4-6 people) + $5/vehicle
YOU are invited to join LLELA staff and volunteers as we study migrating bird populations IN PERSON. See birds up close in scientists’ hands, witness this important catch-and-release research method, and learn what you can do to help birds every day.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
PLEASE NOTE: The birds’ safety is our first priority, so stations MUST close for high winds, heavy precipitation, and other inclement weather. In case of cancellation or rescheduling, LLELA staff will contact you.
Registration required:  
link coming soon
For More Information About the Program: click here

SEPTEMBER 26 -- Kayak Tour (ages 7 and up)
9am-11am
Location: 201 Jones St., Lewisville, TX  75057
Cost: $20/paddler
All skill levels are welcome; paddlers receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided.
Registration required:  
click here or 972-219-3930
For More Information About the Program: click here

SEPTEMBER 26 -- Twilight Kayak Tour (ages 16 and up)
7pm-9pm
Location: 201 Jones St., Lewisville, TX  75057
Cost: $25/paddler
Prior kayaking experience required.  Paddlers receive only a brief introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided.
Registration required:  
click here or 972-219-3930
For More Information About the Program: click here

OCTOBER 3 -- Nature Walk
10am-Noon
Location:
201 Jones St., Lewisville, TX  75057
Cost:  
$5/vehicle (entrance into LLELA)
Join us for our monthly naturalist-led nature walk. Animal tracks, deer trails, wildflowers, butterflies, singing birds…we never know what we’ll find! The hike will last about two hours. There is no additional fee for this activity beyond regular admission to LLELA ($5/vehicle. To be sure you have a spot, .
Registration Required (link coming soon)

OCT 3 -- Campfire
7pm-9pm
Cost:  
$10/person or $30/family of 4-6
Pull up a chair at our cozy campfire... Watch the sun set and the stars appear as you enjoy traditional campfire fun: stories, songs, and of course, s'mores!  
Registration required: link coming soon

OCTOBER 9; 10; 16; 17; 30; 31 -- Migration Bird Banding (ages 7 & up)
8pm-10pm
Cost:
$20/person;  ($60/family of 4-6 people) + $5/vehicle
YOU are invited to join LLELA staff and volunteers as we study migrating bird populations IN PERSON. See birds up close in scientists’ hands, witness this important catch-and-release research method, and learn what you can do to help birds every day.
Minors must be accompanied by an adult.
PLEASE NOTE: The birds’ safety is our first priority, so stations MUST close for high winds, heavy precipitation, and other inclement weather. In case of cancellation or rescheduling, LLELA staff will contact you.
Registration required:  
link coming soon
For More Information About the Program: click here

OCTOBER 10 --Guided Kayak Tour (ages 7 and up)
Noon - 2pm
Cost:  
$20/paddler
Registration Required:  click here

OCTOBER 16 -- Photo Safari (ages 10 and up)
5pm-7pm
Cost:
$5/vehicle
Meet at the Cicada Pavillion
Whether you're a beginner or a master, if you love nature photography, Photo Safaris are for you! Explore different areas of LLELA and learn from your fellow outdoor photography enthusiasts. FREE with entry to LLELA ($5 per vehicle). For important information about this event, contact . Be prepared to stay the whole time and be safe in the outdoors. Photo Safaris will be scheduled at different times from month to month.
For More Information:  Click Here

OCTOBER 17 -- Log House Open House
Noon - 3pm
Cost:  
$5/person; ages 5 and under FREE
Completely restored and furnished with all the trappings of everyday frontier life, the log house gives visitors to LLELA a window on life in Denton County in 1870. Interested visitors of all ages are welcome to arrive at any time during the open hours and tour at their own pace. Knowledgeable volunteers will guide visitors through the structures and answer questions in this informal tour, and local musicians may be there to provide a bit of toe-tapping rhythm.

OCTOBER 17 -- Night Hike (ages 5 and up)
6:30pm-8:30pm
Cost:
$10/person
Join our trail guides as they lead a twilight/moonlight stroll down the Cottonwood Trail. We may hear some bumps in the night, but have no fear...it’s probably just an armadillo. Howling coyotes, hooting owls, and other nocturnal sounds will provide an out-of-the-ordinary hiking experience. No flashlights are necessary.
Registration Required:  click here

NOVEMBER 7 -- Dutch Oven Cooking (first Saturdays Sept through May)
9am-12:30pm
Cost:  $5/vehicle
Interested in learning how to cook mouth-watering foods the old-fashioned way? Join the Lewisville Lake Armadillos, your local chapter of the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society, as they cook up a storm of delicious dishes. Cooking starts at 9am on first Saturdays, September through May.
For More Information:  click here

NOVEMBER 7 -- Photo Safari (ages 10 and up)
9am-11am

Cost:
$5/vehicle
Meet at the Cicada Pavillion
Whether you're a beginner or a master, if you love nature photography, Photo Safaris are for you! Explore different areas of LLELA and learn from your fellow outdoor photography enthusiasts. FREE with entry to LLELA ($5 per vehicle). For important information about this event, contact . Be prepared to stay the whole time and be safe in the outdoors. Photo Safaris will be scheduled at different times from month to month.
For More Information:  Click Here


NOVEMBER 7 -- Nature Walk
10am-Noon
Location:
201 Jones St., Lewisville, TX  75057
Cost:  
$5/vehicle (entrance into LLELA)
Join us for our monthly naturalist-led nature walk. Animal tracks, deer trails, wildflowers, butterflies, singing birds…we never know what we’ll find! The hike will last about two hours. There is no additional fee for this activity beyond regular admission to LLELA ($5/vehicle.
Registration Required (link coming soon)

NOVEMBER 7 --Guided Kayak Tour (ages 7 and up)
Noon - 2pm
Cost:  
$20/paddler
All skill levels are welcome; paddlers receive an introduction to kayaking on dry land before pushing off into the water. All equipment is provided.
Registration Required:  click here


NOVEMBER 7 --Stars on the Prairie
5:15pm - 7:15pm
Cost:  
$10/person
Join us for a fascinating evening as we view the wonders of the nigh sky from LLELA’s prairie restoration. Constellations both familiar and unusual, satellites, and sometimes planets and the moon are features of the ever-changing night sky. If the sky is cloudy, we will have a night hike.
Registration Required (link coming soon):  click here


NOVEMBER 14 -- Bird Walk (ages 10 and up)
7:30am - 10:30am

Bird watchers of all skill levels are welcome to join expert guides Keith Lockhart and/or Sue Yost as they guide visitors to prime birding locations along LLELA’s nature trails.
Registration Required (link coming soon)

NOVEMBER 14 -- Night Hike (ages 5 and up)
6:30pm-8:30pm
Cost:
$10/person
Join our trail guides as they lead a twilight/moonlight stroll down the Cottonwood Trail. We may hear some bumps in the night, but have no fear...it’s probably just an armadillo. Howling coyotes, hooting owls, and other nocturnal sounds will provide an out-of-the-ordinary hiking experience. No flashlights are necessary.
Registration Required:  click here


NOVEMBER 21 --Kayak Power River Trip (3rd Sat of each month)
9am-2pm
Kayak down the Elm Fork with KayakPower.com

Whether you’ve got lots of river time under your belt or have never set foot in a kayak, you’re welcome here! Kayak Power will provide equipment and instruction followed by a six-mile trip down the Elm Fork to a shuttle vehicle.
For Information:  click here or 214-669-1663
Reservation Required:  KayakPower.com


NOVEMBER 21 -- Log House Open House
Noon - 3pm
Cost:  
$5/person; ages 5 and under FREE
Completely restored and furnished with all the trappings of everyday frontier life, the log house gives visitors to LLELA a window on life in Denton County in 1870. Interested visitors of all ages are welcome to arrive at any time during the open hours and tour at their own pace. Knowledgeable volunteers will guide visitors through the structures and answer questions in this informal tour, and local musicians may be there to provide a bit of toe-tapping rhythm.


NOVEMBER 21 -- Campfire
5pm - 7pm
Cost:  
$10/person or $30/family of 4-6
Pull up a chair at our cozy campfire... Watch the sun set and the stars appear as you enjoy traditional campfire fun: stories, songs, and of course, s'mores!  
Registration required: link coming soon

DECEMBER 5 -- Dutch Oven Cooking (first Saturdays Sept through May)
9am-12:30pm
Cost:  $5/vehicle
Interested in learning how to cook mouth-watering foods the old-fashioned way? Join the Lewisville Lake Armadillos, your local chapter of the Lone Star Dutch Oven Society, as they cook up a storm of delicious dishes. Cooking starts at 9am on first Saturdays, September through May.
For More Information:  click here

DECEMBER 5 -- Nature Walk
10am-Noon
Location:
201 Jones St., Lewisville, TX  75057
Cost:  
$5/vehicle (entrance into LLELA)
Join us for our monthly naturalist-led nature walk. Animal tracks, deer trails, wildflowers, butterflies, singing birds…we never know what we’ll find! The hike will last about two hours. There is no additional fee for this activity beyond regular admission to LLELA.
For More Information:  
972-219-3930
Registration Required (link coming soon)




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
Grades K-2
SEPTEMBER 24:  The Web of Life
OCTOBER 15:  Habitats & Hazards
OCTOBER 29: Swamper's Feathered Neighbors
NOVEMBER 19: Life Cycles in the Swamp
Grades: 3-8
SEPTEMBER 24: Entomology
OCTOBER 15: Ichthyology & Herpetology
OCTOBER 29: Ornithology
NOVEMBER 19: Mammalogy


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

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45.  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.

Location:  
626 Ball Street, Grapevine, TX  76051

UPCOMING EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 12 -- 12th Annual ItalianCarFest
10am-4pm
FREE admission
Get your motor running at the GrapeFest ItalianCarFest, presented by Boardwalk Ferrari Maserati, one of the most anticipated countdowns to the 29th Annual GrapeFest®! The event is free for all ages and a great way to spend the Saturday afternoon before GrapeFest.  More than 80 of the most beautiful Italian speedsters ever produced will be showcased. Some of the automobiles are valued at close to $500,000. Cars are positioned so that guests can walk completely around the car and interact with the car owners. Car fans of all ages will want to come see a variety of cars. Festival food and drinks will also be available for purchase so bring the entire family!

Heritage Workshops
OCTOBER 17 -- 15th Annual Fall Roundup
10am-2pm
Cost:  Coupons can be purchased for activities that require a fee. Concessions are also available.
Celebrate the harvest season with our annual family-friendly event. Activities include heritage toys, kitchen gardening, cotton planting, farm animals, wagon rides, wood carving demonstrations, jump rope making, wood stove cooking and blacksmith demonstrations. A special baking contest,
Somethin' Pumpkin will be a treat to participate in and pumpkin decorating is sure to delight children of all ages.
Registration is not required and all ages are encouraged to attend.

OCT 24 -- Bewitched by the Barn
7pm-9pm
Admission:
FREE
Be transported to another time and place for this family event with stories from the Tarrant Area Guild of Storytellers. The stories will get progressively scarier as the sun goes down. Popcorn and cider will be available.
Registration is not required and all ages are encouraged to attend.


NOVEMBER 7 -- Blessed are the Cheesemakers Workshop
10am - 2pm
$15/person (participants must be 16 or older)
Registration Required:  click here for online registration
Learn how to make and age a wonderful variety of farmhouse cheese.  This workshop offers adults the opportunity to get hands-on experience with making cheese and also learn how it can be aged for great flavor.

DECEMBER 5 -- Victorian Christmas
3pm-6pm
Admission: FREE
Come experience how the Nash family celebrated in Victorian times. Learn about the roots of many Christmas traditions. Make a Victorian ornament to decorate your own tree. Cider and cookies will be available.
Registration is not required and participants of all ages are encouraged to attend.


FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE FARM
10am-Noon
Cost: $3/person ages 3 and up
Each program has a different theme that highlghts the heritage skill that you can use to enrich your life today.
Registration Required.  Space is limited.
To Register Online:  Click Here
Themes:  
SEPTEMBER 4 -- Craftmanship
Farmers relied on many crafts people to help keep their farms running.  Experience many peoples’ crafts and trades.
OCTOBER 2 -- Campfire Cooking
Experience the skill of campfire cooking and learn how you can incorporate it into your next camping trip or backyard activity.
NOVEMBER 6 -- Crochet, Knit and Sew
Witness domestic arts being done that have created innumerable objects, many of which have become valued family heirlooms.
DECEMBER 4 -- Christmas Fun
Make a Victorian Christmas ornament to decorate your own tree, sing carols and experience the joys of an old fashioned Christmas.


Frugal Farmwife Series
SEPT 18, OCT 16, NOV 20, DEC 18
9am-4pm
$3 per person
Step into a 19th century home and watch costumed interpreters perform seasonal chores using tools and techniques of the period, such as sewing, spinning, weaving, dying, cooking, washing, ironing, cleaning, gardening, harvesting, preserving, candle-making, and other chores.  Following your visit to the farmhouse, you may visit the farm grounds to complete your experience. Registration is required, but walk-in registration is also encouraged. Participants of all ages may attend. Space is limited.
For Online Registration:  Click Here

Farmhouse on the Grapevine Prairie
10am-Noon
$3/person
Follow the stories of Laura Ingalls Wilder's "Little House on the Prairie," and experience the daily life activities that will bring this story to life. This series is designed for 3rd-7th grade, but all ages welcome.
Registrations is required:  Click here to register.  Space is limited.
Themes:
OCT 24 -- Fall Harvest
Harvest the seasonal crops that provided fresh food this time of year. Work in the garden and watch a demonstration of indoor cooking on the wood burning stove.
NOVEMBER 21 -- Winter Preparations
Help make winter preparations at Nash Farm. Experience house and garden chores that are necessary as a farm prepares for winter.
DECEMBER 19 -- Christmas Celebration
Observe Christmas just like Laura Ingalls Wilder and her family. Make Victorian ornaments that you can take home to your own family tree.



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46. 
OLIVER NATURE PARK-- MANSFIELD TX

Located at the intersection of two ecoregions: the eastern Cross Timbers and the northern Blackland Prairies. The 80 acres of the park contains several different ecosystems such forests, prairies, and riparian areas.  Each section is unique in plant and animal life. Each animal and plant is adapted to a certain area of the park.  Look for other examples of these kinds of adaptations along approximately 1 mile of trails.

Location: 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield, Texas


HOMESCHOOL NATURE WALK WITH A NATURALIST
Cost: $5 per child
Time:  9-10am
AUGUST 5, AUGUST 25
Future Dates TBA

For More Information and to Register: Click Here (Click on "Nature Education Programs")

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47.  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


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48.  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?

WILD HOMESCHOOL DAY
Date: TBD
Time:
10am-5pm
Cost: $5 per attendee
Pre-registration Required!: Click Here or call: 940-686-4600

Open to the Public Days -- 2015
Saturdays and Sundays -- Mar 7 - Nov 29 (all other events require advance reservation)
Time:
  10 a.m. (last tour begins at 4)  
We recommend arriving no later than 2pm to ensure you are able to see lots of animals at the front of the ranch and are able to ride the Safari Tram.
Admission:  $12/ages 13+; $10/ages 3-12 and Seniors 65+; children 2 and under are free
Season Passes: $30/Child & Seniors 65+; $36/Adult Pass $36, $115/Family of 4 ($30 additional)
Season Passes are good for one year from date of purchase
Ticket Includes:
– Animal Presentations: Lemurs, Kangaroos, Black Bears, Cobra and more!
Safari Tram: 35 minute ride through exotic pastures to see camels, zebras, emus, endangered deer, zedonks, zorses and more!
– Small Barn Viewing: Walk around small animal barn and see a variety of animals up close in their habitats
– "Kangaroo Kourt" Marsupial Habitat & Joey Junction: Watch Kangaroos & Wallabies!!
– Kids Barrel Train Ride: Our popular 3 minute ride; adults are welcome to ride too!
– Meet and Greets with our Education Animals: Kangaroo Joeys, Camels, Lemurs, Lizards, Snakes and more! (Animals available for meet and greet vary with the season and temperature).
– Use of our two covered picnic areas for lunch: bottled water, soda & snacks are available in our gift shop. Snow Cone Shack is now open and The Bears Dens Restaurant will be open for lunch! www.bearsdentx.com
– Entry to the Petting Zoo ( feed is available at an additional $2 )


Schedule a Field Trip, Private Tour or Party:  Click here for details.
Field trips are scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:30am or 10:30am
Cost is $8 person

For More Information:  Click Here
940-686-4600 (main)
940-686-3715 (fax)

For Directions:
Click Here
Please do not use MapQuest it WILL get you lost!


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49.  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.


Regular Admission & Hours:
$8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.
Group Pricing Available for 10 or more:  Call 214-428-7476 ext 343
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.
Closed New Years Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, & Christmas Day
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.



September Programs
SEPT 3:  Stories & More! Bye, Bye Butterflies by Andrew Larsen
11am
Join our butterflies for story time! We’ll make crafts, read a book, meet special friends and enjoy themed snacks! The programs end with our daily noon butterfly release and are geared for the under-five/stroller crowd. Let's read!
Cost:
Adults pay regular admission. $8/ages 3-11;  $3/ages 1-3;  At door: $2/child surcharge. 

SEPT 5: Butterfly House Discovery Tour
11am
Join entomologist John Watts for a family friendly tour of the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, followed by our daily noon butterfly release!
Cost:  Included with regular admission.

SEPT 12:  Garden Explorers Walk: Fall Wonders
11 am
Get out in the garden on this family friendly walk! Search for fall color and texture, and then catch the Butterfly Release talk at noon in our conservatory.
Cost: Included with admission.

SEPT 25 through OCTOBER 18 -- State Fair of Texas
Extended hours 10 am to 7 pm.
Texas Discovery Gardens is on Fairgrounds, so a visit to the Gardens entails State Fair of Texas parking and admission (and, while not mandatory, we strongly recommend a corny dog).
Cost:  Enjoy our special exhibits and reduced admission:  
$4/adults, $3/ages 60+;  $2/ages 3-11;  free for under 3

October Programs
OCT 24: Drought Tolerant Plants
3pm-5pm
$25 -- Register in Advance
Some common – and not so common – landscape plants are tough enough to survive Stage Four Water Restrictions. Director of Horticulture Roger Sanderson will showcase drought-tolerant plants available at our Fall Plant Sale, as well as fall planting tips.  

OCT 30-31: Members Fall Plant Sale
3pm-4pm (Oct 30 - Preview attendance allows entry to Member's Plant Sale)
Cost:
$10, $5 for TDG Members. Advance registration strongly encouraged.
This pre-sale tour by TDG’s Director of Horticulture Roger Sanderson shows you how to incorporate native and adapted plants into your landscape. Learn about the environmental conditions they thrive in and the beneficial insects they attract. Our Member's Plant Sale allows you to shop before the Saturday rush! Members also receive 10% off plants. Rare native pollinator-friendly plants are our specialty.

OCT 31: Fall Plant Sale
9am-10am (regular sale)
Enjoy native and adapted plants that are rare to find in local nurseries!

November Programs
NOV 5:  Stories & More! Yucky Worms! by Vivian French
11am
Join our butterflies for story time! We’ll make crafts, read a book, meet special friends and enjoy themed snacks! The programs end with our daily noon butterfly release and are geared for the under-five/stroller crowd. Let's read!
Cost:
Adults pay regular admission. $8/ages 3-11;  $3/ages 1-3;  At door: $2/child surcharge. 

NOV 7: Butterfly House Discovery Tour
11am
Join entomologist John Watts for a family friendly tour of the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium, followed by our daily noon butterfly release!
Cost:  Included with regular admission.



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)



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50.  TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES

ATHENS, TX -- Purtis Creek State Park

Location: Purtis Creek State Park, 14225 FM 316, Eustace, TX 75124
903-425-2332

Things to do:
Camping, picnicking, boating, hiking

Upcoming Events at Purtis Creek State Park:
OCT 24 -- Kayak Basics Class
9am-10:30am
Instructional and hands-on training program to learn proper safety, functionality and paddling of kayaks.
Introduction to the sport of kayaking, learn the types of equipment needed, safe use and proper procedures.  Play games and get familiar with the use of our kayaks or bring your own. Wear clothing you can get wet in.
Meet at the boat ramp parking area for the class.
Reservations are required:  903-425-2332  Class size is limited.



For details about these and other Upcoming Events: click here

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CEDAR HILL, TX -- Cedar Hill State Park

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

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

Upcoming Events at Cedar Hill State Park:
SEPTEMBER 5 -- Go Fish! Learn to Fish Event
9am-Noon
Youth and adults can learn the basics of fishing
Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Take away a fishing fun pack and enter the drawing for door prizes. Equipment and bait provided or bring your own. No license necessary. Adults must accompany children. Bring sun protection and water. Registration and start time is 9:00 A.M.
 

OCTOBER 17 -- Go Fish!  Learn to Fish Event
9am-Noon
Youth and adults can learn the basics of fishing
Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Take away a fishing fun pack and enter the drawing for door prizes. Equipment and bait provided or bring your own. No license necessary. Adults must accompany children. Bring sun protection and water. Registration and start time is 9:00 A.M.
 

Oct 24 -- Texas Outdoor Family - Harvest Days Event

9:30am Oct 24 til 11am Oct 25
Join us for a fun filled weekend designed to help your family discover the joys of camping and Texas State Parks. All camping gear and equipment required for an overnight stay at the park is included with each reservation! Click for a list of activities offered and specific information for this workshop.
Click here for Details
Fees:  $65/family of 6
Registration:  Call 512-389-8903 to speak to one of our "Texas Outdoor Family" customer service representatives Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.



For Details about these and other Events: 
click here


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DENTON, TX -- Ray Roberts Lake State Park/Isle du Bios Unit

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

Upcoming Events at Ray Roberts Lake State Park/Isle du Bois & Johnson Branch Unit:
July 26, 2015 - Due to recent flooding, the Isle du Bois and Johnson Branch Units are closed; other facility closures include all of the boat ramps on Ray Roberts Lake, and the FM 380 part of the Greenbelt Corridor. The hard surface trail of the Greenbelt Corridor between Hwy 428 and Hwy 455 is open, but the equestrian trail remains closed, as work continues to resolve severe erosion issues and washed out bridges. Please contact the park for additional information.

For Details about these and other Events:
click here


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DENISON, TX -- Eisenhower State Park

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

Upcoming Events at Eisenshower State Park:
SEPT 3 -- Eisenhower Book Club
6pm-7:30pm
Start reading now! Our first book will be "Into the Wild" by Jon Krakauer.
We'll meet at the Sherman Public Library this fall to explore nature literature, and eventually we'll plan our own outdoor adventure! The first meeting will be on September 3rd (first Thursdays of the month) from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Light refreshments will be offered.  For more info and to vote on the next book go to our Goodreads Group.

SEPT 19 -- Go Fish!  Learn to Fish

9am-Noon
Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Take away a fishing fun pack and enter the drawing for door prizes. Equipment and bait provided or bring your own. No license necessary. Adults must accompany children. Bring sun protection and water. Registration and start time is 9:00 A.M.

OCT 10 --
Go Fish!   Learn to Fish (DATE CHANGE)
Youth and adults can learn the basics of fishing.
Families can learn the basics of fishing through fun, hands-on activities. Take away a fishing fun pack and enter the drawing for door prizes. Equipment and bait provided or bring your own. No license necessary. Adults must accompany children. Bring sun protection and water. Registration and start time is 9:00 A.M.
This event was previous scheduled for Oct. 17th but has been moved to Oct 10th.
For More Info:  Click Here


For Information about Events: click here


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JACKSBORO, TX -- FORT RICHARDSON STATE PARK

Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historic Site/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway, 228 State Park Road 61, Jacksboro, TX 76458
940-567-3506

Upcoming Events at Fort Richardson State Park:

TBD

For Details about these and Other Events: click here


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MINERAL WELLS, TX -- Lake Mineral Wells State Park 

Location:  Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
940-328-1171

Upcoming Events at Lake Mineral Wells State Park
SEPT 5 -- Cross Timbers Cowboy Poetry and Stories
8pm-9:30pm
Cost:
The program is free with paid park entrance fee or a State Park Pass.
“Learning about our cowboy heritage can be fun!” oin David Owens, park interpreter and Cowboy Poet, at the Lone Star Amphitheater for a fun evening of cowboy poetry and stories. Experience cowboy lifestyle and local history through the poetry and stories of the Texas cowboy.
Held at the Lone Star Amphitheater in Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX, 76067. Accessible for the mobility impaired.

SEPT 11 -- Master Outdoor Leadership Training | Texas Outdoor Family | Lake Mineral Wells State Park | (Open)
6:30pm Fri, Sept 11 to 2pm Sun, Sept 13
Cost:  The training is FREE, but space is extremely limited; meals not provided
Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway
Master Outdoor Leadership training is designed to provide you with hands on experiences and scenarios to build outdoor leadership skills. We will provide you with specific information that will allow you to best utilize the Texas Outdoor Family program gear, equipment, locations and expertise to make a positive impact in your community and our State Parks.
For More Information and to Apply: Click Here

SEPT 12 -- Stargazing the Texas Night Sky
8:30pm - 10pm
Cost:  The program is free with paid park entrance fee or a State Park Pass.
“The stars at night are big and bright …” Learn more about one of Texas’ best natural resources – the night sky.  Observe stars, planets and constellation through two of the park telescopes! Learn about constellations and basic astronomy! This is a come and go event. Come by any time between 9:00 pm and 10:30 pm! Held at the Lone Live Oak Camping Area in Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX, 76067.
HEART of Texas Editor's Note:  Please verify the timeframe for this event with the park, as the website states two different times, 8:30 to 10pm and 9pm to 10:30.  

SEPT 19 -- Night Sounds
8pm-9:30pm
Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway
“After attending the Night Sounds program, I found my daughter sitting on the back porch the next night, not watching TV or playing video games, but listening to nature!” – Park Visitor
Listen to the sounds of a Texas night. Actual and recorded sounds of the insects, birds, frogs and mammals will be heard and identified with slides of the animals. Bring a lawn chair. Held at the Lone Star Amphitheater in Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX, 76067. Accessible for the mobility impaired.
Cost:  The program is free with paid park entrance fee or a State Park Pass.

SEPT 26 -- Kid’s Wilderness Survival
8:30am - 11:30am
Cost:  The program is free with paid park entrance fee or a State Park Pass.
A great program for your child’s outdoor safety and parents learn as much as the kids.
This 2 ½ hour course is a fun was for kids to learn how to stay safe in the outdoors and learn what to do if they become lost. The course includes interactive games, demonstrations and a hike on a nature trail. The course requires kids accompanied by a parent, guardian or youth group leader.
Reservations are required. Call 940-328-1171.
Held at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX, 76067.



For Details about these and Other Events: click here


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GLEN ROSE -- Dinosaur Valley State Park

Location:  The park is located four miles west of Glen Rose. Take U.S. Highway 67 to FM 205 for four miles to Park Road 59; then go one mile to the headquarters. Use the honor box located at headquarters to pay fees after office hours.
254-897-4588 

Upcoming Events at Dinosaur Valley State Park

SEPT 5 -- Limestone Ledge Hike
10am-Noon
 
The Limestone Ledge Trail Family Hike will begin at the park store parking lot. The hike will follow the river, stopping to view dinosaur tracks along the way. This hike is an intermediate level hike and is approximately 2.5 miles long. No strollers please. Wear good walking/hiking shoes. Plenty of water and protein snacks recommended!

SEPT 26 -- The Monarch Butterfly
10am-11am
Meet at the Park Store first for a brief presentation on Monarch butterfly life cycle and biology.
Presentation followed by participation in field survey of milkweed host plants, Monarch larvae and other insects in Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) registered site.
Leaders: Bob & Gail Bullard.
Program suitable for all ages.

OCT 3 -- The Monarch Butterfly
10am-11am
Meet at the Park Store first for a brief presentation on Monarch butterfly life cycle and biology.
Presentation followed by participation in field survey of milkweed host plants, Monarch larvae and other insects in Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) registered site.  
Leaders: Bob & Gail Bullard.
Program suitable for all ages.

OCT 10 -- The Mammoth Race
Cost:  
Admission Fees to the park are included for each pre-registered participant. Event day registrants are subject to the $7.00 per person Day Use Fee. Admission fee for children 12 and under is FREE.
The Mammoth is a FAMILY FRIENDLY, single day, multi-distance trail run. Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen
Rose, TX will be home to this years race. With FOUR different distances to offer, all ages and athletic abilities will be able to run their race. Race individually or with a non-competitive team. The courses will utilize a part of the parks 20 miles of single-track dirt and limestone trails. Mild to moderate elevation gains, low level water crossings, natural obstacles and amazing scenary will make THE MAMMOTH a trail run not to be missed. Post-Race Celebration will include Family Friendly activities, a 25 foot Rock Wall, food and drink vendors, as well as other various vendor and sponsor booths. Participants are encouraged to make a day (or a weekend) of enjoying this HISTORIC parks features and attractions. Explore the pre-historic dinosaur tracks, have a picnic, pitch a tent and have a campfire! Alcoholic Beverages are NOT permitted inside the park. The Mammoth is RAIN or SHINE. In the event of inclement weather that would threaten the safety of the racers, the event or courses may be altered or the event may be delayed or canceled. Entry Fees are Non-Refundable
For more information: click here

OCT 10 -- The Monarch Butterfly
10am-11am
Meet at the Park Store first for a brief presentation on Monarch butterfly life cycle and biology.
Presentation followed by participation in field survey of milkweed host plants, Monarch larvae and other insects in Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) registered site.
Leaders: Bob & Gail Bullard.
Program suitable for all ages.

OCT 17  -- The Monarch Butterfly
10am-11am
Meet at the Park Store first for a brief presentation on Monarch butterfly life cycle and biology.
Presentation followed by participation in field survey of milkweed host plants, Monarch larvae and other insects in Monarch Larva Monitoring Project (MLMP) registered site.
Leaders: Bob & Gail Bullard.
Program suitable for all ages.

NOV 14 -- Dinosaur Valley State Park | Texas Outdoor Family | Dutch Oven Cooking | Ft Worth Area | (Open)
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Join us for a fun filled weekend designed to help your family discover the joys of camping and Texas State Parks. All camping gear and equipment required for an overnight stay at the park is included with each reservation! Click for a list of activities offered and specific information for this workshop.
To Learn More:  Click Here


For Details about these and Other Events: click here

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TYLER, TX -- Tyler State Park

Location:  Tyler State Park, 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX 75706
903-597-5338

Upcoming Events at Tyler State Park:
SEPT 5 -- Dutch Oven Cooking: History in a Black Pot
10am-11:30am
Caution, you will be hooked!  Learn the basics of the fine art of historic camp cooking with cast iron!

SEPT 5 -- Caddo Culture
2pm-3pm
Explore the Caddo Confederacy.Learn about their culture, their trade routes, mound building, ceremonies, and agriculture.

SEPT 12 -- Tyler State Park Birding Tour
8am-10am
Let's Go Birding!  We’ll go find where the birds are, observe them in the wild, and add them to your lists. Bring binoculars and a field guide (if you have them), comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. Easy to moderate hike can be expected. Recommended for ages 7 and up. No pets. No large groups please. Great for beginners through experts.

SEPT 12 -- Birding 101: Introduction to Birding
10:30am - 11:30am
Everyone's a Birder!  Discover one of the fastest growing hobbies in the nation. Learn how to identify birds by sight and sound. Learn the tools of the trade and simple skills to make birding easier and fun!

OCT 17-18 --
Texas Outdoor Family (Two Night Event)
9:30am Oct 17 to 11am Oct 18
Join us for a fun filled weekend designed to help your family discover the joys of camping and Texas State Parks. All camping gear and equipment required for an overnight stay at the park is included with each reservation! Click for a list of activities offered and specific information for this workshop.
Click here for Details
Fees:  
$85/family of 6
Registration:  Call 512-389-8903 to speak to one of our "Texas Outdoor Family" customer service representatives Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.



For Details about these and Other Events: click here

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WILLS POINT, TX -- Lake Tawakoni State Park

Location:  Lake Tawakoni State Park, 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point, TX 75169

Upcoming Events at Wills Point State Park:
NONE SCHEDULED AT THIS TIME



For Details about these and Other Events:
 click here


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

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51PERFORMANCES 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.


THROUGH SEPT 5 -- Rapunzel! Rapunzel!  A Very Hairy Tale
Visit an enchanted fairy tale land with dragons, a handsome prince, an evil would-be Queen, a really great hair stylist, and that famous princess with the long, long, long hair! Hold on to your hair and prepare for a brand new magical musical re-telling of the classic fairy tale! On the edge of glory, the evil Lady Za Za determines to rule the kingdom by keeping the beautiful Princess Rapunzel – with the long, long, long hair – trapped in a tower in the deep, dark, dank, dismal, dreary forest. It’ll be up to Sir Roderick and his hair stylist friend Edgar (who is on a quest to find the perfect head of hair) to rescue Princess Rapunzel and restore the kingdom – with the help of a slightly neurotic Gypsy Woman (isn’t there one in every fairy tale?), and a tired, yet witty, old dragon named Socrates, who has lost his poof!
For More Information:
click here

SEPT 18 - OCT 17 -- Aladdin, Jr.
All of your favorite characters from the hit Disney film – Aladdin, Jasmine, Iago, Jafar, the Genie, and more – are here in Disney’s Aladdin JR., a musical adventure filled with magic, mayhem, and flying carpet rides. Disney’s Aladdin JR. ‘s tuneful, accessible Academy award-winning score, with songs by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, and Tim Rice, including “A Whole New World” and “Friend Like Me,” will send audiences soaring.
For More Information:  
Click Here

OCT 30 - NOV 14 -- Pinkie & Blue
On a magic night, two famous paintings, Pinkie and The Blue Boy are brought to life by magical moonlight. Now, they have till the next rising of the sun to help the Man in the Moon grant three impossible wishes or else it’s the end of Dreamland!
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.



SEPT 4 - OCT 10 --- The Secret Garden
This enchanting classic of children’s literature is reimagined in brilliant musical style by composer Lucy Simon and Marsha Norman, the Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright of ‘Night Mother.’ Orphaned in India, 11 year-old Mary Lennox returns to Yorkshire to live with her embittered, reclusive uncle Archibald and his invalid son Colin. The estate’s many wonders include a magic garden which beckons the children with haunting melodies and the “Dreamers”, spirits from Mary’s past who guide her through her new life, dramatizing The Secret Garden‘s compelling tale of forgiveness and renewal.
For More Information:  Click Here

OCT 16 - NOV 7 -- Arsenic & Old Lace
We meet the charming and innocent ladies who populate their cellar with the remains of socially and religiously “acceptable” roomers; the antics of their nephew who thinks he is Teddy Roosevelt; and the activities of the other nephew—these require no further description or amplification here. ARSENIC AND OLD LACE is a must for all nonprofessionals, a ready-made comedy hit.
For More Information:  Click Here

Birthday Parties at Artisan!
For more information about how to schedule a birthday party, call
817-284-1200.

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

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52.  BREITLING YOUTH THEATER

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


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 becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Homeschool Classes  $55  Includes Costume
"ANNIE JR."  Ages 4-19
Performance the week of Nov. 9th-11th.
Thursdays    1:45-3:00pm   Class starts Aug. 20th

"WIZARD OF OZ"  Musical Theater Classes -Enrolling NOW! (Homeschool class)
Cast A Performance Nov. 16-20th / Cast B Performance Nov. 21st-23rd
Thursdays     12:30-1:45pm      Sept 3rd            ages 10 & up(homeschool class)

"101 Dalmatians KIDS" Musical Theater Classes start the first week in September.
This is about a 40-45 minute performance-great for younger kids! (Homeschool class)
Performance Dec. 16th or 17th
Thursday 11:45-12:30pm September 3rd for kids ages 4-11

After School Classes
"ANNIE JR."  $75/mo.  Ages 4-19 Includes Costume
Performance the week of Nov. 9th-11th.
Mondays       6:45-8pm       Class starts Aug. 17th for Ages 4-11
Wednesdays 6:00-7:15pm  Class starts Sept. 2nd for Ages 4-11
Wednesdays 6:45-8:00pm  Class starts Sept. 2nd for Ages 10 & up
Thursdays    1:45-3:00pm   Class starts Aug. 20th (Homeschool Class
   
"WIZARD OF OZ"  Musical Theater Classes -Enrolling NOW!
 $75/mo. Includes Costume
Cast A Performance Nov. 16-20th / Cast B Performance Nov. 21st-23rd
Mondays        4:30-5:45pm        Aug. 31st          ages 6-11
Mondays        5:30-6:45pm        Aug.  31st         ages 10 & up
Tuesdays       5:15-6:30pm        Sept. 1st           ages 6-11
Tuesdays       6:15-7:30pm        Sept. 1st           ages 6-11
Thursdays     12:30-1:45pm      Sept 3rd            ages 10 & up(homeschool class)
Thursdays     6:00-7:15pm        Sept. 3rd           ages  6-11
Thursdays     7:00-8:15pm        Aug.  13th         ages 10 & up
   
"101 Dalmatians KIDS" Musical Theater Classes start the first week in September.  $60/mo. Includes Costumes
This is about a 40-45 minute performance-great for younger kids!
Performance Dec. 16th or 17th
Wednesdays 4:30-5:15pm September 2nd for kids ages 4-11
Wednesdays 8:00-8:45pm September 2nd for kids ages 4-11
​Thursday 11:45-12:30pm September 3rd for kids ages 4-11
​Thursday 3:45-4:30pm September 3rd for kids ages 4-11
​Thursday 5:15-6:00pm September 3rd for kids ages 4-11

"A CHRISTMAS CAROL"- Choose ONE Class time
Classes start the week of Aug. 31st, Auditions are Sept 7th-19th
Performances Dec. 16th-18th
Musical Theater Classes-Speaking & Singing Parts Class Times  $75/mo. Ages 11-19
  Tuesdays       7:30-9:00pm

Musical Theater Classes-Ensemble(dancing & singing, non-speaking) $60/mo. Ages 7-19
   Tuesdays        4:30pm-5:15pm
  Thursdays       4:30pm-5:15pm



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53.  CANTARE PERFORMANCE CHOIR IN SOUTHLAKE

Cantare 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


AUDITION SCHEDULE
Register For An Audition date/time:  Click Here

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54.  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:


SEPT 26-OCT 4 -- Fiddler on the Roof
Rich in historical and ethnic detail, Fiddler on the Roof's universal theme of tradition cuts across barriers of race, class, nationality and religion, leaving audiences crying tears of laughter, joy and sadness. Set in the little village of Anatevka, the story centers on Tevye, a poor dairyman, and his five daughters. With the help of a colorful and tight-knit Jewish community, Tevye tries to protect his daughters and instill them with traditional values in the face of changing social mores and the growing anti-Semitism of Czarist Russia.
This show is suitable for all audiences.

OCT 16 - NOV 1 -- Junie B. Jones the Musical (Children's Theater)
It’s Junie B.’s first day of first grade and a lot of things have changed for her: Junie’s friend Lucille doesn’t want to be her best pal anymore, and on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. Also, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher Mr. Scary thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a “Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal,” and first grade has never been more exciting.

NOV 7-15 -- On Golden Pond
Presented to great critical and popular acclaim, On Golden Pond centers around Ethel and Norman Thayer as they spend the summer at their beloved cottage on a lake in Maine. The sentimental comedy explores the often turbulent relationship with their daughter while growing up and the difficulties faced with a couple entering their twilight years.  And as they come to terms with the realities of aging, reexamining the past and worrying over the fleeting future, they discover how precious time really is.
This show is suitable for all audiences.


NOV 27 - DEC 23 -- Frosty the Snowman (Children's Theater)
Frosty, the beloved snowman, is back in a new musical adventure to melt your entire family's hearts! Based on the classic tale enjoyed by millions around the world, Frosty the Snowman is sure to put a smile on your face and get the entire family in the holiday spirit! Don't miss your chance to enjoy this classic holiday tradition in a new, musical way!

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

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55.  PERFORMANCES AT CATS THEATER IN ARLINGTON


CATS PRESENTS:
TBA August 14

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


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56.  THE COTTAGE THEATER – CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education’s Cottage Theater Presents:

Upcoming Performances:
OCTOBER -- The Wizard of Oz
JANUARY 2016 -- Sleeping Beauty of Loreland Cmedy
APRIL 2016 -- You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown
JUNE 2016 -- The Lion, the Witch & the Wardrobe
JULY-JULY 2016 -- Godspell Musical Theatre Camp


Admission:  $10 for adults, $8 for students. Small children who sit in laps are no charge. No baby carriers or strollers, etc.
Student Night Thursday:  
$5 student tickets
To purchase tickets:
Call 817-281-2293;  Sorry, no refunds


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

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57.  DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

Location:    Baker Theater
                 Rosewood Center for Family Arts
                 5938 Skillman Street
 

2015 Season:
(Please note that not all productions may be suitable for all audiences.)  


SEPT 18-OCT 25 -- Fancy Nancy the Musical
Take a trip to the tres irresistible world of the fanciest, funniest kid to ever take the stage.
Nancy's refined etiquette is not enough to get her the lead role in the upcoming school play. C'est la vie! She must summon the strength to forge ahead when a sudden turn of events casts her best friend as the lead. Every kid can relate to Nancy, with her boisterous attitude and tangled up feelings... Grown-ups will be equally dazzled while noting the (wink, wink) heart-warming lessons that we never outgrow. The Mermaid Ballet recital, complete with a scene-stealing dancing shark, will have your spirit dancing and your children hysterically happy.
SEPT 19 -- Fancy Nancy Party
(Fundraiser) before the play: Click Here


Sensory-Friendly Performances
General production adaptations include leaving the house lights up a few levels higher than for a standard performance and reducing the sound level. We also offer a "Quiet Room" for children who need a break.
There will be some fun and engaging activities presented before the play, so plan to come as early as one hour before the show.

Sensory Friendly Performance Tickets:  $5 per person

OCT 17 -- Fancy Nancy the Musical (Sensory Friendly)
1:30pm (doors open at 1pm)
Take a trip to the irresistible world of the fanciest, funniest kid to ever take the stage. Nancy's refined etiquette is not enough to get her the lead role in the upcoming school play. C'est la vie! She must summon the strength to forge ahead when a sudden turn of events casts her best friend as the lead. Every kid can relate to Nancy, with her boisterous attitude and tangled up feel-ings... Grown-ups will be equally dazzled while noting the (wink, wink) heartwarming lessons that we nev-er outgrow. The Mermaid Ballet recital, complete with a scene-stealing dancing shark, will have your spirit dancing and your children hysterically happy. Recommended for ages 5 and up
To Purchase Tickets:
214-740-0051

FEB 20 -- A Year with Frog & Toad
(Sensory Friendly)
1:30pm (doors open at 1pm)
The three-time TONY-nominated Broadway hit with its jazzy score hops to DCT just in time for spring. This whimsical musical follows two unlikely best friends and their quirky egos from hi-bernation to planting, to swimming, to sledding with plenty of fun and lots to learn along the way. This adorably charming story captivates audiences of all ages - even those who think they're too old for make-believe. Join Frog and Toad as they weather the seasons and celebrate the differences that make them special. You and your best friends will be tapping your webbed toes all the way home! Recommended for ages 4 and up
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

MARCH 12 -- Hansel & Gretel (Sensory Friendly)
4:30pm
You don't always need a prince and princess for your heroes to live happily ever after. Two children in search of food for their hungry family get lost in an enchanted forest. They must depend on all their powers of imagination to save them from the crafty, mysterious old woman in the candy house and (in this less "grim" version) lead them back to the loving arms of their parents. The familiar, melodic music of Engelbert Humperdinck brings an inventive theatricality to the retelling of this beloved fairy tale adventure. HANSEL AND GRETEL brings another feast for the eyes and ears to the stage from Kathy Burks' Master Puppeteers. Recommended for ages 4 and up
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

APRIL 9 -- The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane (Sensory Friendly)
1:30pm
The award-winning author of Because of Winn-Dixie and The National Ambassador for Young People's Literature launches the extraordinary pilgrimage of Edward, a beautiful, much-loved toy rabbit who loves only himself. When he is ripped from the arms of his doting young owner and lost, Ed-ward finds that his breakable heart can learn to love, lose, and love again. This stunning, highly theatrical play became an immediate must-see hit following its premiere and is sure to go down in history as a family classic with your family being among its first audiences. Trust us, you'll be sorry if you miss this one. Recommended for ages 7 and up
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

APRIL 23 -- Balloonacy (Sensory Friendly)
1:30pm
BALLOONACY had people expressing all kinds of emotion in 2015! Now, we're bringing it back so many can see it again and others can experience it for the first time. Audiences were truly smitten with Karl Schaeffer's lonely old birthday boy and the unlikely friend he makes in a wandering red balloon. This inclusive, non-verbal play invites the audience to direct the action making no two shows ever alike. You'll be in awe of your child's (and your own) laughter and reaction to the adventure between the old man and the balloon. Squirmy toddlers, their parents, and grandparents are invited to experience what could be the most valuable hour of the year! Recommended for ages 2 and up
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

MAY 14 -- Roald Dahl's The BFG (Big Friendly Giant) (Sensory Friendly)
1:30pm
In the much beloved tradition of Roald Dahl (Charlie and the Chocolate Factory), we join two misfits on an unforgettable odyssey. For a young orphan "human bean", the sight of a giant outside her window is terrifying, and she fears for her life when he whisks her away to an enchanted land. This Big Friendly Giant is not like other giants, however. The job of this larger-than-life vegetarian is to blow magical dreams into children's bedrooms, and together they embark on a quest to save England from the "gizzard-gulping" giants who don't have the BFG's tender heart. The cheeky BFG ultimately shows that heroes can come in all sizes. See the play that inspired the new Steven Spielberg movie coming out July, 2016. Recommended for ages 7 and up
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

JULY 2 -- Pinkalicious (Sensory Friendly)
4:30pm
Pink-A-Boo! DCT audiences were tickled...that's right - PINK the last time PINKALICIOUS was on our stage, so we're bringing her back in this exhilarating musical! When Pinkalicious doesn't heed her parents' warnings and indulges in too many pink goodies, she has to make some healthy choices to fight off a bad case of Pinkititis. Pinkalicious will finally eat a little green, her little brother will no longer be blue, and all kids will learn to show their true colors! The popular book pops off the stage in this high-energy musical treat that kids will love even more than pink cupcakes! Recommended for ages 5 and up

To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051

Sensory-Friendly Resources for Visiting the Dallas Children's Theater:

Click Here for a Pictorial Guide
Click Here for Parent Tip Sheet


Box Office Hours

9am to 5 p.m., Monday–Friday
On performances days: Friday evenings until 30 minutes past curtain.
Saturdays 11:00am until 30 minutes past last curtain.
Sundays 11:00am until 30 minutes past last curtain.
214-740-0051
Ticket Sales are subject to availability. No refunds or exchanges on single tickets.
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.
Ticket Prices: Range from $13 - $28
For Ticket Information: Click Here
               

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58.  DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS

Location: The Music Hall at Fair Park
909 1st Ave
Dallas, TX 75210   
          

2015-2016 Season:
(Please note that not all productions may be suitable for all audiences.)
HEART of Texas is proud to partner with Dallas Summer Musicals!
Your family or homeschool group (group of 10 or more) can get discount rates to great family-friendly performances for the upcoming season.  
Be sure to mention HEART of Texas when you order. 

Check out the Group Discount Form on our Downloads page for details.
Special Discounts for Groups with 10 or More:  Click Here for pricing and show times
(Then scroll to the bottom of the page to see the Performance Schedule and Pricing)


NOVEMBER 3-22 -- The Sound of Music
The classic Rodgers and Hammerstein musical returns to Dallas!

DECEMBER 8-20 -- Elf
ELF is the hilarious tale of Buddy, who embarks on a journey to NYC to find his birth father and discover his true identity.

FEBRUARY 2-14, 2016 -- Briges of Madison County
One of the most romantic stories ever written, is now an irresistible, two-time Tony Award®-winning Broadway musical.

MARCH 11-27, 2016 -- The Little Mermaid
THE LITTLE MERMAID returns to Dallas with the story about a mermaid who dreams of the world above the sea and gives up her voice to find love.

APRIL 20 - MAY 22, 2016 -- Wicked
Back by “popular” demand, long before that girl from Kansas, two girls meet in the land of Oz!

MAY 24 - JUNE 5, 2016 -- Ragtime
The lives of a family of upper-class WASPs, an African-American couple and some Eastern-European Jewish immigrants intersect as they try to make a success in America.

JUNE 14-26 -- Bullets Over Broadway
Based on the Woody Allen and Douglas McGrath film, this musical comedy is loaded with big laughs, colorful characters, and the songs that made the 20s roar!

JUNE 28 - JULY 10 -- 42nd Street
Facing adversity from all directions, the young but talented Peggy Sawyer learns about show business and discovers which relationships are most important in life.



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59.  DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCES

2015-2016 Youth Concerts:
Young Person's Orchestra Guide
OCT 21 at 10am
OCT 21 at 11:30am
OCT 22 at 10am
OCT 22 at 11:30am
Details: Get to know the orchestra up close and personal! Masterpieces by Mozart, Mussorgsky and Britten make this program a perfect introduction to classical music for the young listener.
Repertoire List:  
Mozart: Overture from The Abduction from the Seraglio
Mussorgsky: 5 movements from Pictures at an Exhibition
Britten:  The Young Person's Guide to the Orchestra


American Celebration
JAN 20 at 10am
JAN 20 at 11:30am
JAN 21 at 10am
JAN 21 at 11:30am
Details:
Dallas Black Dance Theater II joins the DSO for this celebration of some of the greatest music ever made in America.  Works include Gershwin's American in Paris and Rhapsody in Blue and Copland's iconic "Hoe Down" and Billy the Kid.
Repertoire List:
Berstein: Candide Overture
Copland: "Prairie Night" & "Celebration Dance" from Billy the Kid
Copland: "Hoe Down" from Rodeo
Ives: "The Housatonic at Stockbridge" from Three Places in New England
Gershwin: American in Paris suite
Gershwin: Rhapsody in Blue

Cinco de Mayo
MAY 5 at 10am
MAY 5 at 11:30am
MAY 6 at 10am
MAY 6 at 11:30am
Details:  From the sublime to the exhilarating, Mexican, South American, and Spanish composers have given us a rich diversity of beautiful music.  Join us for this unique orchestral and cultural experience.
Repertoire List:
Revueltas: Sensemayá
Marquez: Danzon No. 2
Piazzolla: Oblivion
Chavez: Sinfonia India
Villa Lobos: Aria from Bachianas brasileiras No. 5
Defalla: "Ritual Fire Dance" from El amor brujo


Admission:  $6.50/person (payment must be received with all reservations).  Only reservations confirmed in advance can be seated.  No walk-ins.
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 Order Tickets Online or by Phone:
 Click Here or call 214-871-4006.  
To Pay by Check or Money Order:  Please fill out this PDF form and mail it with the check or money order attached.
Please note that reservations will not be held without payment. The DSO will not process your request unless the reservation form is fully complete.
Read Youth Concert Logistics and FAQ’s before making a request.


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


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60.  FORT WORTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA YOUNG PERSON'S CONCERTS

Designed to engage the interest of children of all ages, these concerts are open to school groups, home school groups and individuals.
You must have a reservation.  No walk-ins.

2015-2016 Concerts 
Visions of America (Young Persons' Concerts)
JANUARY 20, 2016 at 10:30am & 12:30pm
JANUARY 21, 2016 at 10:30am & 12:30pm
Tickets:
$5/person (youth & adults)
Location:
Bass Performance Hall, 525 Commerce Street, 76102
Details:
Join the Fort Worth Symphony and Kids Who Care as we discover how composers interpret the American landscape and people through music. You’ll hear selections by Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, John Williams, and others. This program also features images from the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Young Persons’ Concerts last approximately 45 minutes and are appropriate for children ages 7 through 13.
Order Tickets Online
Groups of 20 or Fewer (click on links below):
Jan 20 at 10:30am
Jan 20 at 12:30pm
Jan 21 at 10:30am
Jan 21 at 12:30pm
Groups of more than 20: Click here for online Reservation Form

KinderConcerts: My Many Colored Days
FEBRUARY 18, 2016 at 10:30am & 12:30pm
FEBRUARY 19, 2016 at 10:30am & 12:30pm
Tickets: $5/person (youth & adults)
Location:  Arborlawn United Methodist Church, 5001 Briarhaven Road, 76109
“Some days are yellow. Some days are blue. On different days I’m different too.” Accompanied by Kids Who Care, the Fort Worth Symphony explores the wonderful world of Dr. Seuss’ My Many Colored Days and demonstrates how feelings are expressed through music and colors. Kinderconcerts are approximately 35 minutes and are appropriate for children ages 3 through 6.
To Order Tickets:  
Groups of 20 or Fewer:
Thursday, February 18 10:30 AM
Thursday, February 18 12:30 PM
Friday, February 19 10:30 AM
Friday, February 19 12:30 PM
Groups of more than 20:  Click here for online Reservation Form
Study Guide for My Many Colored Days:  
click here

Family Concert: Peter & the Wolf
JANUARY 17, 2016 at 2pm & 3pm
Tickets:  
$10/person (youth & adult)
Location: White's Chapel United Methodist Church, 185 S. White Chapel Boulevard, Southlake
Family Concert lasts approximately 45 minutes. The classic story of an enterprising little boy named Peter, who, together with a duck, a cat and a bird, outsmarts a wolf and hunters. Children and their parents will enjoy listening to this unique musical story as every character is portrayed by a different instrument from the orchestra.
To Purchase tickets to Family Concerts: Order online or by calling the FWSO Box Office at 817.665.6000.


1 adult chaperone per 10 children is required.
Orders for Fewer than 20 Seats:  
Must be paid at time of reservation.
Orders for 20 or More:  May be reserved without advance payment.
You will receive an invoice within a week of making your reservatin.  Full payment is due no later than 14 days prior to the concert.
No refunds will be given after this date.
The FWSO does not distribute tickets or assign individual seats for educational events. If you require special seating for any members of your group, please indicate this at the time of your reservation.
Prior to the performance, you will receive an email outlining concert policies and procedures.
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 email message or call 817-665-6500.

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61.  GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA

2015-2016 Concert Schedule
OCT 18 -- Flute Choir - Concert

2:30pm
Cost:
FREE Concert
Location:
Frisco's White Wedding Chapel, Frisco Heritage Center, 6455 Page Street, Frisco
For More Information:  Click Here

OCT 25 -- GDYO "Adventure & Romance" Concert
7:30pm
Join the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra as we open our 44th season with a program full of adventure and romance.  The program will feature Rossini’s William Tell Overture, Ravel’s Daphnes et Chloe, Suite No. 2, and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4.
For Tickets:
Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)
Location:
Morton Meyerson Symphony Center
For More Information:  
Click Here

NOV 15 -- DSE, YPO, Sinfonietta

2:30pm
Location:  City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
Ticket Information:  Click Here

NOV 15 -- GDYO Jazz Institute

2:30pm
Cost:
FREE
Location:
City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Ticket Information:  Click Here

NOV 15 -- Philharmonic & Wind Symphony - Concert
7:30pm
Location:  
City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Tickets: Click here
   
DEC 14 -- GDYO - "Holiday Magic" Concert
7:30pm
Location:
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

JAN 12 -- Wind Symphony with the Dallas Winds
8pm
Location: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

FEB 7 -- Philharmonic & Wind Symphony - Concert
2:30pm
Location:
City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

FEB 21 - GDYO Jazz Institute - Concert
Details: TBA

FEB 21 -- Sinfonietta, DSE, YOP - Concert
This is a shared concert with: Sinfonietta, Dallas Strings Ensemble, & Young Performers Orchestra
2:30pm
Location:
City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
To Purchase Tickets:  Click Here

FEB 28 -- Flute Choir - Concert
Featuring guest artist Daniel Pardo
Details:  TBA

MAR 6 -- GDYO "On Thousand & One Tales of Young Virtuosos
" CONCERT

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)

Details:  Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra will feature a young virtuoso.  Each year, the GDYO program offers concerto competitions for four of the ensembles, including the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra.   These competitions cultivate solo performance, encourage personal excellence, and acknowledge the high degree of talent and hard work exhibited by individual musicians in the program.  Dallas area professional musicians will judge the orchestra members at their competition in mid-September, 2014.  The winner of the competition will be featured on this concert, along with Sibelius’s Pohjola’s Daughter and Rimsky-Korsakov’s, Scheherazade.
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

APR 24 -- Flute Choir - Concert
Combined concert with the UNT Flute Choir
Details:  TBA

MAY 1 -- Sinfonietta, DSE, YPO - Concert
2:30pm
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

MAY 1 -- GDYO Jazz Institute - Concert
6pm
Location:  Sambuca, 2120 McKinney Ave, Dallas, TX 75201
Cost: FREE Concert; Sambuca is donating 10% of all sales of the day back to the jazz program. So, let’s make it a great evening. Bring all your friends and family for a great night out, eat dinner, listen to jazz, and finish our first year with a bang ;) (Seating in the dining area in front of the stage requires food purchase.)
Parking:  Strongly suggest using the valet service in the Sambuca parking lot -- $3 to $5
Reservations:   Click Here for Information

MAY 1 -- Philharmonic & Wind Symphony - Concert
7:30pm
Location: City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
For Tickets: Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)


MAY 15 -- GDYO - "Emperors & Titans" Concert
7:30pm
Location: Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora St, Dallas, 75201
Details:  Featuring Dvorak’s Slavonic Dance,  Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 “Emperor” with soloist and Gold Medalist Leeds Piano Competition Alessio Bax, Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 “Titan.”
Preceding the concert will be the GDYO Spring Gala (dinner, auction, and music by a GDYO Jazz Institute combo), held in the lobby of the Meyerson Symphony Center. This is the only fundraising event for the youth orchestra, and we hope you will attend. The Gala benefits the GDYO Scholarship Fund and the GDYO Tour Fund, allowing deserving students a chance to not only experience the GDYO program, but also to be further enriched by experiencing new cultures while traveling and performing with their peers. Tickets to the Gala include a concert ticket, in most cases.
For Tickets:
Click here or 817-528-7747 (M-F, 9am-5pm)

Auditioning for GDYO
GDYO is no longer accepting applications for auditions for the 2015-2016 season.
If you would like to be added to the audition email list, please
click here
Audition information for the 2016-2017 season will be available by February of 2016. 
If you have not done so already, you can look over the Audition FAQs, Audition Requirements, etc. 
If you have any questions, please email us
If you auditioned this spring (for the 2015-2016 season), results will be mailed May 17, 2015. 
Under NO circumstances will results be given over the phone

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62.  PARK CITIES STUDIOS/THE DALLAS CONSERVATORY

Park Cities Studios offers world-class instruction for ages 18 months and older, in dance, singing, and acting.

Discount:  Park Cities Studios/The Dallas Conservatory is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID) 10% off their class tuition.
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Location:  7979 Inwood Rd, Suite 201, Dallas, TX  75209
Phone:  214-357-8888
For More Information:  Click Here

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62.  PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES


Location:  Plano Productions: Plano Children’s Theater, 1301 Custer Road, Plano, TX 75075
                McKinney Productions: Heard Craig Hall, 306 North Church Street, McKinney, 75069
                Frisco Productions: Frisco Discovery Center, 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco 75034
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.

Now Showing:

2015-2016 Season
SEPT 4-12 -- Disney's The Jungle Book (Plano)
Performs at:
Plano Children's Theater Mainstage,
1301 Custer Rd in Plano
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: On the run from Shere Khan, a ferocious tiger who has banished him from the jungle, a human boy named Mowgli is aided by an agile panther named Bagheera. Along the way, the two meet a sinister snake named Kaa, a herd of elephants, and a giant bear named Baloo, who teaches them the swingin’ musical rhythms of the jungle. After surviving a dangerous encounter with a band of monkeys led by King Louie, Mowgli and Bagheera are forced to run for their lives. Shere Khan returns, leading our protagonists to rally their follow jungle creatures into battle and restore peace to the jungle.
For More Information about this performance:  
Click Here

SEPT 11 - 20 -- Guys & Dolls Jr (Frisco)
Peforms at: 
Frisco Discovery Center, 8004 Dallas Pkwy, Frisco 75034
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: Set in Damon Runyon's mythical New York City, Guys And Dolls JR. is an oddball romantic comedy. Gambler Nathan Detroit tries to find the cash to set up the biggest craps game in town while the authorities breathe down his neck; meanwhile, his girlfriend, nightclub performer Adelaide, laments that they've been engaged for 14 years. Nathan turns to fellow gambler Sky Masterson for the dough, but Sky ends up chasing the straight-laced missionary Sarah Brown.
For More Information about this performance:  Click Here

SEPTEMBER 18-26 -- The Drowsy Chaperone
Performs at:
Plano Children's Theater Mainstage
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: With the houselights down, a man in a chair appears on stage and puts on his favorite record: the cast recording of a fictitious 1928 musical. The recording comes to life and The Drowsy Chaperone begins as the man in the chair looks on. Mix in two lovers on the eve of their wedding, a bumbling best man, a desperate theatre producer, a not so bright hostess, two gangsters posing as pastry chefs, a misguided Don Juan and an intoxicated chaperone, and you have the ingredients for an evening of madcap delight.
For More Information about this performance:  Click Here

SEPTEMBER 18-26 -- Charlotte's Web (Plano)
Performs at:  
Plano Children's Theater Black Box
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: A young farm pig Wilbur is attempting to avoid a dire fate. Of all the barnyard creatures, Wilbur's staunchest ally is Charlotte, a thoughtful spider who devises an intriguing plan to keep the gentle little swine out of the slaughterhouse. Although Charlotte's efforts, which involve words written in her delicate web, seem far-fetched, they may just work.
For More Information about this performance:  Click Here

OCT 2-10 -- CATS (Plano)

Peforms at:
Plano Children's Theatre Mainstage, 1301 Custer Rd in Plano
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: The musical tells the story of a tribe of cats called the Jellicles and the night they make what is known as "the Jellicle choice" and decide which cat will ascend to the Heaviside Layer and come back to a new life.
For More Information about this performance:  Click Here

OCT 15-24 -- Legally Blonde, Jr (Plano)
Peforms at:
Plano Children's Theatre Mainstage, 1301 Custer Rd in Plano
Tickets: $8 in Advance and $10 at the door.  Front Row Seats are $18.
Your tickets will be available at will call the day of the performance.

Details: Elle Woods appears to have it all. Her life is turned upside-down, however, when her boyfriend dumps her so he can start getting serious about his life and attend Harvard Law. Determined to get him back, Elle uses her charm to get into Harvard Law. At school, she struggles with peers, professors, and Warner Huntington III. With the help of Paulette and Emmett, though, Elle quickly realizes her potential and sets out to prove herself to the world.
For More Information about this performance:  Click Here



To Learn More:  www.planochildrenstheatre.com


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62.  SHINE

Shine is a family-friendly, faith-based performing arts studio for kids and teenagers to hone their skills in singing, acting, and dancing.

Discount:  Shine is waiving their $25 class registration fee for HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID).  
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Location:  3616 Churchill Lane, Plano, TX  75075
Phone:  214-218-4779
For More Information:  Click Here

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63.  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.

2015-2016 Schedule TBA

Performances:
MAY 29-31 (2015) -- Artistic Director's Choice (Bass Hall in Ft. Worth)
HEART of Texas Discount Day (20% Discount):  MAY 30 at 2:00 pm
Rubies is a "crisp and witty" collaboration between choreographer George Balanchine and composer Igor Stravinsky. Balanchine worked to put into dance form the essence of the jewels that he admired. Rubies is one act of from the world's first ever plotless ballet, Jewels. In this act, the dancers race like lightening across the stage to an upbeat jazz-inflected score.  Petite Mort is an intense piece that juxtaposes pleasure and death. Set to movements composed by Mozart, this is a breathtaking work that showcases the unique vision of Jiri Kylian, including demanding choreography that features foils as dance partners.  Texas Ballet Theater is pleased to present a world premiere by Jonathan Watkins, commissioned specifically for our dancers. Watkins is an internationally recognized choreographer and a former company member of The Royal Ballet.


To Purchase Tickets By Phone: 
Call 877-828-9200, opt 1
You must mention HEART of Texas Home School Discount Program to get the discount.
Any homeschooler may take advantage of this program
 

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.

           


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64.  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


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65.  HOME SCHOOL DISCOUNT TICKETS TO DALLAS THEATER PERFORMANCES

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

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

Offer open to homeschoolers, friends and family.  Unlike some of the other theater offers, DSM gives a different link each time so contact Susan at the email above for the link to the current offers. 

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66.  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:
OPENS SEPTEMBER 5 - FEBRUARY 21, 2016 -- Tales from the American West: The Rees-Jones Collection
Dallas collector Trevor Rees-Jones first became interested in art and the American West when visiting the Amon Carter Museum of American Art as a young boy.  Years later that experience led Rees-Jones to gather one of the finest private collections of art of the American West, spanning the eighteenth century through the 1920s, including paintings, watercolors, sculpture, and photographs. The selection of the Rees-Jones Collection on view marks its debut showing in a museum.  The exhibition includes stately portraits, accurate renditions of daily life, majestic landscapes, and romantic visions, all of which contribute to our present understanding of the West today. Visitors to the exhibition will enjoy examples by well-known artists Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell, as well as George Catlin, E. I. Couse, Henry Farny, and Joseph Sharp, among others.

OPENS SEPTEMBER 5 - FEBRUARY 14, 2016 -- That Day: Laura Wilson
This exhibition of seventy-one photographs introduces us to worlds that are hard-bitten and fiercely independent. Framed equally by beauty and violence, the images reflect the artist’s challenge to today’s homogenized America.  That Day: Laura Wilson is organized by the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. It is supported in part by generous contributions from the Alturas Foundation, Mollie and Garland Lasater Charitable Fund of the Community Foundation of North Texas, Ruth Mutch, Salle Stemmons, and Worthington National Bank.

THROUGH MAY 30, 2016 -- Pasture Cows Crossing Indian Creek, Comanche, Texas, Looing for the old Civilian Fort of 1851, North of Gustine and a mile west of Baggett Creek Church
A visionary storyteller, Esther Pearl Watson (b. 1973) blends memories and imagination to capture her Texas upbringing. A mural-size painting (about 13 feet tall and 10 feet wide), Pasture Cows Crossing Indian Creek, was created specifically for the Amon Carter’s atrium. It is part of the museum’s program of rotating contemporary artworks in the atrium space and an exciting addition to an ongoing exploration of Texas artists and their contributions to modern American art.


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


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67.  DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS 

Location:  Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas, Texas 75201
Hours: Monday:  Closed
            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 on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
            Late night Fridays (3rd Friday of the month, excluding December) museum open until Midnight.


General Admission:  General admission is FREE every day
Special Exhibit Admission:  $8/person;  Ages 11 and under:  FREE


CURRENT AND UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS:
OPENS Oct 11, 2015 - January 17, 2016 -- International Pop
International Pop, organized by the Walker Art Center, chronicles the global emergence of Pop in the 1960s and early 1970s. While previous exhibitions and prevailing scholarship have primarily focused on the dominance of Pop activity in New York and London during this time, this exhibition examines work from artists across the globe who were confronting many of the same radical developments, laying the foundation of the emergence of an art form that embraced figuration, media strategies, and mechanical processes with a new spirit of urgency and/or exuberance. This groundbreaking exhibition follows the trajectories of Pop and its critical points of contact with global developments in art such as Nouveau Réalisme (France), Concretism and Neo-Concretism (Brazil), The Art of Things (Argentina), Anti-Art (Japan), Capitalist Realism (Germany), Happenings, and Neo-Dada.
International Pop will require an $16.00 special exhibition ticket.

THROUGH MAY 29, 2016 -- Modern Opulence in Vienna: The Wittgenstein Vitrine
The Wittgenstein Vitrine reveals these results by exploring the conservation effort and charting the context and history of this masterwork’s design and fabrication, iconography, and provenance. The exhibition also presents new perspectives on designer Carl Otto Czeschka, his work for the Wiener Werkstätte, and the important patronage of the Wittgenstein family.
Admission is included in your general admission

THROUGH November 15, 2015 -- Saints & Monsters: Prints by Albrect Durer
Saints and Monsters: Prints by Albrecht Dürer explores works in the DMA's collection by the Renaissance German artist Albrecht Dürer (1471–1528). Dürer left a profound mark on the course of art history through his contributions to the field of printmaking. He elevated the relatively new print medium, made possible by new technologies, by establishing innovative technical standards and formulating original iconographic models that would be repeated by many generations of artists. Deeply religious, Dürer’s work often depicts saints or spiritual scenes while other prints featured terrorizing monsters, which served as warnings for those who did not follow Christian teachings.
Admission is included in your
general admission

THROUGH Nov 15, 2015 -- Inca: Conquests of the Andes/Los Incas y las conquistas de los Andes
Inca: Conquests of the Andes explores the dynamic nature of state expansion and imperial conquest on Andean visual arts. The Inca Empire developed through the 15th and early 16th centuries, encompassing the central Andes of South America. Before and after the Inca Empire, political expansions by local states or foreign empires continually transformed the Andean coast and highlands. The visual arts of these periods reflect the dynamism of such cultural convergence.  The exhibition presents over 70 works exclusively drawn from the DMA’s collection, many of which are on view for the first time. The Inca and their imperial impact are framed by pre-Inca cultures, such as the Wari (Huari), and the successive early Spanish colonial period. The exhibition reflects the traditional media of Andean visual arts, from ceramic and wood to gold, silver, feather, and textile objects. They convey the richness and dynamism of over 1,000 years of Andean cultural history.
Requires $8 Special Exhibition Ticket

OPENS November 15, 2015 - March 20, 2016 -- Jackson Pollock: Blind Spots
Blind Spots will illuminate this underexplored but pivotal part of the artist’s practice. The exhibition will explore the Pollock’s practice via a selection of paintings made between 1947 and 1949; these works will serve to contextualize the radical departure represented by the Black Pourings, a series of black enamel and oil paintings that Pollock created between 1951 and 1953.


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.
DEC 2: Jolly Holiday


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:
$8/child (ages 6 -12). Adults do not require a ticket.
To Register/
To Purchase Tickets:  Click Here  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. Class size is limited to 20 students.  When classes are filled, call 214-922-1818 or click here to send an e-mail to be placed on a waiting list.
Themes:
NOVEMBER 19; DECEMBER 17: Exploring International Pop:
Learn how artists used advertisements, celebrities, TV, brand names, and more to create an art movement that really POPS as we investigate works in the International Pop exhibition. Then try your hand at creating your own colorful Pop art.


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.


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


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68.  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, Cezanne, Matisse, and Picasso, as well as antiquities, Asian, African, and pre-Columbian art.

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



CURRENT & UPCOMING EXHIBITS
THROUGH SEPTEMBER 20, 2015 -- Botticelli to Braque: Masterpieces from the National Galleries of Scotland
On view in the Renzo Piano Pavilion
The 55 paintings in the exhibition span a period of more than 400 years (1490–1932) and include some of the greatest holdings of the Scottish National Gallery, Scottish National Portrait Gallery and Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art—the three institutions that comprise the National Galleries of Scotland in Edinburgh. Ten paintings in the exhibition, all from the Scottish National Gallery, will first be presented at the Frick Collection in New York City as Masterpieces from the Scottish National Gallery, on view there from November 5, 2014, through February 1, 2015.

NOVEMBER 8, 2015 - FEBRUARY 14, 2016 -- Gustave Caillebotte: The Painter's Eye
On view in the Renzo Piano Pavilion
During the height of Impressionism in the 1870s and 1880s, Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894) produced some of the movement's most daring and bold paintings. Experimenting with radical points of view and audacious perspective, he created images of Paris streets, of domestic life and of country pursuits that are unforgettable. Some 50 paintings from 1875 to 1882—the time in which Caillebotte was most committed to the Impressionist movement—will reveal his genius.

NOVEMBER 22 - FEBRUARY 14, 2016 -- Castiglione: Lost Genius;  Masterworks on Paper from the Royal Collection
On view in the Kahn Building
This exhibition of drawings and prints by Giovanni Benedetto Castiglione aims to reinstate the 17th-century master as one of the greatest graphic artists of the Baroque. Much of what is known about Castiglione, born in the cosmopolitan port of Genoa, comes not from his artworks but from court papers documenting his acts of violence, possibly even murder. He was, however, arguably the most innovative and technically brilliant Italian draftsman of his time.

MAY 22, 2016 - SEPT 11, 2016 -- The Brothers Le Nain: Painters of Seventeenth-Century France
On view in the Renzo Piano Building
The Brothers Le Nain: Painters of Seventeenth-Century France will be the first major exhibition in the United States devoted to the Le Nain brothers, Antoine, Louis and Mathieu, who were active in Paris during the 1630s and 1640s. It will gather more than 50 of their best paintings and highlight the brothers' full range of production, with altarpieces, private devotional paintings, portraits and those poignant images of peasants on which their celebrity rests.



FAMILY FESTIVALS
OCTOBER 17 --  Bella Italia
1pm-4pm
FREE - No reservations necessary
Piano Pavillion
This fun afternoon event for all ages features art-making activities, gallery tours, and live performances inspired by Italian masterpieces. Children's films are made possible by the Lone Star Film Society.


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.
Registration: 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
Themes:
SEPT 5, 12, 19 – Ancient Animal Mosaics
OCT 3, 10, 31 – Carving in Clay
DEC 5, 12, 19 – Salty Seascapes
JAN 2, 9, 16 – Great Cities
FEB 6, 13, 20, 27 – Into Monet's Garden

PICTURES & PAGES
Time:
Select Tuesdays, 10:30-11:30am
Museum learning begins early with this special program for preschoolers (ages 4–6) and their adult partners. Popular children’s books inspire group conversations and simple art activities.
Free Program, but Registration is required:  
817-332-8451, ext. 351, or click to email
Space is limited. Maximum two children per adult.
Themes:
OCT 6 -- Geraldine, the Music Mouse, by Leo Lionni
NOV 3 -- The Three Little Pigs: An Architectural Tale, by Steven Guarnaccia
DEC 1 -- Chasing Degas, by Eva Montanari
JAN 5 - The Colors of Us, by Karen Katz
Feb 2 -- Little Whistle's Dinner Party, by Cynthia Rylant


Children's Workshops

Time:  10am-Noon on select Saturdays
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; series of 3 sessions for $37.
To Register:  817-332-8451, ext. 351.
Themes: 
2015 Program Dates TBD.
OCT 24 -- Think Like a Curator: Gallery Dioramas
NOV 14 -- Fort Worth Bridges: Collages Inspired by Caillebotte
JAN 23 -- Strokes of Genius: Drawing with Catiglione

Family Educator Morning
Time: Selected Fridays, 10am-Noon
Free learning experiences structured for homeschool students (ages 8–16) and their adult partners include a staff presentation, interactive gallery tours, and hands-on learning activities.
Free; registration required.
Each program is limited to 25 children, plus their adult companions.
For questions or more information: 
817-332-8451, ext. 351. or click to email
Programs:
DEC 11 -- Caillebotte's Paris
FEB 5 -- Caillebotte's Paris


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69.  PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE IN DALLAS

Location:  2201 N. Field Street in Dallas, 75201 (located at the corner of Woodall Rodgers and Field Street
Phone: 214-428-5555  
Museum Hours:  Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm
(Moody Family Children's Museum (Lower Level) Mon: Noon-5pm, Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm)
                        Sunday: noon-5pm
                        First Thursday Late Night: 5-9pm
Extended hours first Thursday of each month. Also enjoy a late-night film and special interactive programming!
Last exhibits entry at 3:30pm regular hours, or an hour and a half before closing for extended hours.

School Group/Field Trip Traffic Calendar:
                            Monday-Friday: 9am-2:30pm, September-June 5
                            Tuesday-Friday: 9am-2:30pm, limited groups June-August 28 


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.


Traveling Exhibits

OPENS OCTOBER 31 - FEBRUARY 21, 2016 -- Creatures of Light; Nature's Bioluminescence
Explores the natural phenomenon of ‘living light’ with a vast array of organisms, from the flickering fireflies in your backyard to the deep-sea fishes in our oceans’ darkest depths. While the ability to generate light is rare among plants and animals that live on land, up to 90 percent of animals at depths below 2,300 feet provide the only source of light for the largest habitable space on Earth, the ocean.  Spark your curiosity with larger-than-life models, live fish, and interactive displays in this exhibition! You will be able to move through a series of re-created environments to discover the glowworm webs on the ceiling of New Zealand’s Waitomo caves, the ‘pyrotechnic’ plankton in Puerto Rico’s Mosquito Bay, and special lighting on the coral walls of the Cayman Island’s Bloody Bay. Use iPads featuring videos, photographs, and more to discover the diversity of bioluminescent creatures. Creatures of Light will help you answer questions of how these organisms use light to attract mates, lure prey, or fight off predators. Learn where, why, and how scientists study these amazing creatures that glow!
Admission:  
$7 adults; $6 youth and seniors (plus general museum admission)
To Purchase Tickets:
Click Here

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 7 --  Amazing Animals
Feel the pressure of a giraffe's heart, catch the wind with your own simulated wings, slow down the graceful gate of a sprinting cheetah and more as you make your way through this wild exhibition. Digital interactives, immersive movies, hands-on displays and incredible specimens create an experience you won't soon forget! 
You will experience and explore how plants and animals stay in one piece and withstand the elements using an astonishing array of internal apparatuses. Through comparing the similarities between muscles and motors, legs and springs, claws and clamps, and many more mechanisms you will discover how all living things have the right tools for the job of survival.
To Purchase Tickets:  Click Here

THROUGH SEPTEMBER 7 -- Build It! Nature

Are you ready for a roll up your sleeves experience where you can get a crash course in designing, building, engineering and testing? Let your inner engineer run wild with new exciting and interactive stations at Build It! Nature. This knowledgeable and enjoyable exhibit provides the opportunity to not only build your very own wings, but also test what size and shape is needed to reach different strength levels. For the creative minds, craft your own animal mask masterpiece, or visit the imagination playground to build a one-of-a-kind structure. Discover the magic behind building and creation in your visit to these stations and many more! 
Recommended for ages 6 and older. All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Admission to Build It! Nature: $5 + materials fee, in addition to general Museum admission.  
It is recommended that you arrive prior to your designated ticket time to ensure a timely entry to Build It! Nature. Strollers are not allowed inside the exhibit.
To Purchase Tickets: Click Here

HOME SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Times:  
Mondays: 9am-11am or 1pm-3pm (October November, December, January, February, April, May)
For Ages:
5-13 (Max 5 children per adult. Adult must be over age 21 and must remain with child/children)

Cost:  $25/person.   All attendees must be registered.  Fee includes admission into the regular exhibits.
Parking: One parking voucher will be issued at check-in for each family. The voucher is valid program day for the main Museum Parking lot, located under Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Once you park, there is a safe crosswalk to the north (away from downtown) that leads visitors up the ramp toward the main entrance.
To Enroll:  Click Here
For Additional Information:  Click Here to send an email
Please note:  
the Museum is a state-licensed facility, which requires all children be vaccinated or have a vaccine affidavit exemption form from the state, which can be requested here.
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. 
Themes:  

OCTOBER 12 & 26:  Weather Day
NOVEMBER 2 & 16: Space Day
JANUARY 11 & 25: Animals Big & Small Day
FEBRUARY 8 & 22: Robotics & Engineering Day
APRIL 11 & 25: Conservation Day
MAY 9 & 23:  Museum Day
Overall themes are the same for all grade levels each month, however activities and curriculum will be age specific.

JUNIOR MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM
Times:  
1st Thursdays from 6pm-7:30pm at the Museum;
                and Saturdays 10am-Noon at north Texas parks (see schedule for locations)**
For Ages:  4th - 6th Grade
Cost:  
$150/person.
Location:
Perot Museum Learning Labs, plus 4 field trips to natural parks
Do your kids get excited about catching bugs, collecting rocks or tracking wildlife? The Junior Master Naturalist program offers a whole new way to explore and protect the natural wonders of Texas. Led by Perot Museum education staff and North Texas Master Naturalist volunteers, this program combines engaging classroom training with inspiring field-based discovery to help kids develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of Texas ecosystems. Through exciting hands-on explorations and outdoor adventures, your child will gain the skills and knowledge to become good stewards of the environment.  Classes take place during First Thursday Late Nights at the Museum — and on Saturdays, participants and their parents meet at different parks in the North Texas area to explore Texas terrain, vegetation and wildlife firsthand. Once they’ve completed the program, your kids will even have the opportunity to help train future Junior Master Naturalists by becoming volunteers themselves!
**Please note that at least one guardian must provide transportation and accompany his or her children during each field trip.
2015-2016 Schedule
Orientation:  Thursday, September 3 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
Geology:
Thursday, October 1 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                Saturday, October 3 | 10am-noon | Ash Grove Cement Co.

The geologic history of Texas is recorded in the rocks. Explore the unique geologic formations of Texas and learn how to start a fossil collection!
   
Mammology:
Thursday, November 5 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                     Saturday, November 7 | 10am-noon | Coppell Nature Park
Skulls, tracks and scat, oh my! Discover the wide variety of mammals that live in North Texas and learn how to track them in the field.

Botany:  
Thursday, January 7 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                Saturday, January 23 | 10am-noon | Coppell Nature Park
Plants play a very important role in our ecosystems. Learn some key points about plant biology, and put your knowledge to work to identify local flora.

Aquatic Science:
Thursday, February 4 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                             Saturday, February 20 | 10am-noon | John Bunker Sands
Discover the many small organisms inhabiting local aquatic systems, and learn how they act as indicators of environmental health.

Ornithology:
  Thursday, March 3 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                        Saturday, March 5 | 10am-noon | White Rock Lake

Explore the basic biology of birds as you discover the keys to identifying them by sight and sound.

Entomology:  
Thursday, April 7 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                        Saturday, April 23 | 10am-noon | Cedar Ridge Preserve

Invertebrates (bugs!) are EVERYWHERE! Learn how to collect and classify the many invertebrates found in Texas.

Herpetology:
 Thursday, May 5 | 6-7:30pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs
                        Saturday, May 14 | 7-9pm | White Rock Lake

Explore the fascinating lives of amphibians and reptiles through live animal encounters and frog call surveys.

Awards Ceremony:  Thursday, June 2 | 6-8pm | Perot Museum Learning Labs


PARENT/CHILD PROGRAM
Time:
Mondays 9am-10:30am (For children ages 4-5)
Classes begin an hour before the Museum opens to the public, to allow children access to the galleries without distractions or interruptions.
Parents participate alongside the children.
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
For more Information: 214.756.5728
To Register: Click Here

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 PEROT MUSEUM

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.



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70.  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.

Location:  1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, 76107 (corner of Montogomery & Gendy)
Admission:  $15 for adults;  $11 for children (2-12);  $13 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.
)

EXHIBITS:
THROUGH SEPT 7, 2015 -- Design Zone
What does it take to create an addictive, fun video game, line up rhythms like DJ’s, or design a roller coaster that produces the biggest thrills?  Whether it is art, music or engineering, it takes math, science and creative problem solving to meet these design challenges.
Teacher Guide:  Click Here

OPENS DEC 19, 2015 -- Exploring America: A Photographic Journey
Exploring America: A Photographic Journey explores our great country’s National Parks and the places in between. So far David's adventures have taken him over 30,000 miles in an attempt to capture the beauty and uniqueness of our country's treasures. These photographs are meant to trigger memories of times you may have spent in these wonderful places, to inspire you to see them again or experience them for the first time. Join us on this journey Exploring America.


PLANETARIUM SHOWS:
One World, One Sky:  Big Bird's AdventureJoin Big Bird, Elmo and their friend, Hu Hu Zhu as they introduce children to the night sky and very basic astronomy. Recommended for very young audiences (ages 2 to 7), and the very young at heart!
Back to the Moon, for Good! – In case you haven’t heard, the Moon is trending again… and in a big way. Like in the glory days of the 1960s and 1970s, our big white space neighbor is enjoying the attention of lunar explorers. Only this time, they’re going back to the moon for good.
LASER Light Family Style
Our Amazing Solar System – Climb aboard for a fun and informative journey through the planets, from the center of our solar system to its very edge.
Fragile PlanetFly from the oceans of Earth, to the towering peaks of Mars, and out to the unexplored landscapes of the Milky Way galaxy. Could there be life out there and, if there is, could we ever find it?
Two Small Pieces of Glass Follow two students as they learn how the telescope has helped us understand our place in space.
IBEX  – IBEX stands for the Interstellar Boundary Explorer. This mission has helped us to better understand where our solar system ends, and where the rest of the Milky Way galaxy begins.
Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity – Dare to get up close as a star ends its life with a cataclysmic explosion and collapses into one of the most mysterious and destructive objects of the universe.

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71. NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER

Location:  Dallas Arts District
                2001 Flora Street
                214-242-5100
Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
Closed Mondays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Cafe Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11 am – 3:30 pm (for food services) & 4 pm (for beverage services)
Please note that hours are subject to change depending on private events and/or volume of business.
Closed Mondays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Admission:  
Adult: $10; Seniors 65+: $7; Military w/ID: $7; Student w/ID: $5; Child under 12: FREE
Regular admission includes a free audio tour and entrance to special exhibitions.
FREE admission every first Saturday of the month, 10 am – 5 pm.

Til Midnight at the Nasher:
6pm-Midnight
FREE Admission
'til Midnight at the Nasher presents live outdoor concerts featuring the best in regional music talent and film screenings in the Nasher Garden. Guests have the opportunity to engage in social media scavenger hunts, progressive tours and to view the permanent collection and special exhibitions.  Nasher Cafe by Wolfgang Puck offers special reserve-ahead picnic dining for two and grab & go food items the night of the event.
SEPTEMBER 18 -- Click for details
6pm: Acoustic Singer-Songwriter Showcase
7pm: Concert: The Roomsounds
9pm: Film: Empire Records (PG-13, 1995)

Reservations for Picnic Dining (required): Reservations for picnic dining are required and may be made online Monday, September 14- Wednesday, September 16 at 5 pm

EXHIBITS:

SEPT 19 - JAN 10, 2016 -- Guiseppe Penone: Being the River, Repeating the Forest
Working in a stunning variety of materials—including clay, wood, stone, metal, plaster, resin, acacia thorns—the artist makes palpable and present the analogous processes of nature and art: carving large trees along their growth patterns to reveal the sapling contained within; elaborating the interior space of his closed hand into a large-scale sculpture that both contains his hand and enlarges the space it contains; rendering the swirling mists of his breath in the cold in tactile clay forms that contain the impression of his body.

First Saturdays (FREE Admission)
10am-5pm (family activities from 10am-2pm)
Bring the kids and enjoy free admission and fun family programming on the first Saturday of every month.  
Themes: 
SEPT 5 – Heritage  [art project: family frames]
                OCT 3 – Drama [art project: dramatic entrance masks]
                NOV 7 – Togetherness [art project: family meal placemats]
                DEC 5 – Environment [art project: happy habitats]
                JAN 2 – Part/Whole [art project: shape trains]
                FEB 6 – Light [art project: nightscapes]
                MAR 5 – Innovation [art project: thinking caps]
                APR 2 – Growth [art project: "when I grow up" portraits]
                MAY 7 – Adventure [art project: art-venture totes]

Kids' Club
9am-11am
EEEERRRRR slow down! Or ZOOOOOOOOOM speed up! Learn different ways that artists move to create their work. Join us for an action-packed day filled with art activities, family tours, scavenger hunts, and more!
Click for Details
SEPTEMBER 26
NOV 7


HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOPS
TBA



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

NOW SHOWING:
SEPTEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 17, 2015 -- Robots (40min, Rated G)
ROBOTS is a sneak peek into the future at what might be possible as scientists use innovative engineering and design to make cyber characters less "humanoid" and more just plain human. Robot "actor" RoboThespian will introduce you to CHIMP, ATLAS, PR-2, Herb the Butler, ICUB, and others as he takes you on an amazing tour of what's going on in robotics labs around the world.
For More Information: Click Here
Teacher Resources: click Here

Jerusalem
(40min, Rated G)
Tickets:  $7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: Jerusalem, sacred to half the people on earth; fought over more than any other place in history; conquered and destroyed, rebuilt and reinvented repeatedly over 5,000 years. Now, for the first-time ever, a new giant screen film adventure immerses audiences in a spectacular cinematic journey—soaring high above the Holy Land and plunging deep into the vibrant Old City—so they can experience as never before the iconic sites cherished by billions. Jerusalem is a breathtaking new film that explores on a grand scale the intersection of science, history and religion in this ancient, enigmatic place.
For More Information: Click Here


SEPTEMBER 14 - DECEMBER 17, 2015 -- Humpback Whales
Tickets:
Details:
An extraordinary journey into the hidden world of nature's most awe-inspiring marine mammal, Humpback Whales takes you to Alaska, Hawaii, and the Kingdom of Tonga for a close-up look at how these whales communicate, sing, feed, play, and care for their young.
For More Information:  
Click Here

Tornado Alley
Tickets:  
$7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: Join Storm Chasers star Sean Casey and the researchers of VORTEX 2, the most ambitious effort ever made to understand the origins and evolution of tornadoes, on this heart-pounding science adventure. Armed with a 70mm camera, a fleet of customized vehicles designed to withstand gale force winds, torrential rains and unrelenting hail, and an arsenal of the most advanced weather measurement instruments ever created, the stars of Tornado Alley take audiences on a thrilling quest to experience a tornado’s destructive power at point blank range. Experience the adrenaline and the science of nature’s most dramatic phenomena, now showing in the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History’s Omni Theater, an IMAX dome.
For More Information:
Click Here

Journey to the South Pacific

Tickets:  $7/adults; $6/children 2-12 and Seniors 65+
Details: Narrated by Cate Blanchett, Journey to the South Pacific will take moviegoers on a breathtaking adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Join Jawi, a young island boy, as he takes us on a journey of discovery to this magical place where we encounter whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and other iconic creatures of the sea. Home to more than 2,000 species of sea life, this exotic locale features the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth. An uplifting story of hope and celebration, Journey to the South Pacific highlights the importance of living in balance with the ocean planet we all call home.
For More Information: Click Here


OPENING SEPT 14, 2015-MAY 27, 2016 -- D-Day Normandy 1944 (40 min; Rated G)
June 6, 1944: The largest Allied operation of World War II began in Normandy, France. Yet, few know in detail exactly why and how, from the end of 1943 through August 1944, this region became the most important location in the world. Blending multiple cinematographic techniques, including animation, CGI and stunning live-action images, “D-Day: Normandy 1944” brings this monumental event to the world’s largest screens for the first time ever. Audiences of all ages, including new generations, will discover from a new perspective in breathtaking IMAX® how this landing changed the world. Exploring history, military strategy, science, technology and human values, the film will educate and appeal to all. Narrated by Tom Brokaw, “D-Day: Normandy 1944” pays tribute to those who gave their lives for our freedom… A duty of memory, a duty of gratitude.
For More Information: Click Here
Educator Guide: Click Here

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 17, 2015 -- Polar Express

JANUARY 5 - MAY 27, 2016 -- Coral Reef Adventure

FEBRUARY 12 - MAY 27, 2016 -- America Wild: National Parks Adventure

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73. 
FEATURED 3D FILMS AT THE HOGLUND FOUNDATION THEATER AT PEROT MUSEUM

MARCH 6 - SEPTEMBER 7 --
DEEPSEA CHALLENGE 3D (40 minutes)
Why would James Cameron, world-renowned, award-winning filmmaker, put his very life on the line to dive alone to the deepest place on Earth? What kind of passion and drive and spirit would impel him to risk everything he has achieved to descend to the Ocean’s darkest and most unknown depths? Cameron is also a passionate ocean explorer, driven by a lifelong dream to be the first man to dive solo to the bottom of the forbidding and mysterious Mariana Trench. As deep as Mount Everest with a lesser Alp stacked on top, the Trench is the ultimate last frontier on Earth.
DEEPSEA CHALLENGE follows the dramatic story — all in eye-popping 3D —of Cameron’s personal odyssey as he undertakes an expedition of such historic proportion and personal danger that it has been compared to walking on the moon.
To View Trailer:
Click Here
Tickets: Click Here

OPENS SEPTEMBER 11 - JANUARY 3, 2016 -- JERUSALEM 3D (40 minutes)
JERUSALEM gives a tour of one of the world’s oldest and most enigmatic cities. Destroyed and rebuilt countless times over 5,000 years, Jerusalem’s enduring appeal remains a mystery. To discover the truth behind the mysteries, the film takes us on a journey following three young Jerusalemites and their families, as well as noted archaeologist, Dr. Jodi Magness. Through their eyes we learn what it means to call Jerusalem home, and experience celebrations and events that mark the high points of a year in the life of the city. This awe inspiring film provides a completely unique perspective of a part of the world that captivates the imagination of billions of people.
To View Trailer:
Click Here
Tickets:
Click Here

Living in the Age of Airplanes
(47minutes)
Narrated by Harrison Ford and featuring an original score by Academy Award® winning composer James Horner (Avatar, Titanic) Living in the Age of Airplanes presents a story that renews our appreciation for the amazing invention of the airplane as it stunningly conveys the wonder and grandeur of flying. The films explores the countless ways the airplane affects our lives, with a fascinating take on history, breathtaking visuals, and spectacular music making it enjoyable for all! Beautifully filmed in 18 countries, across all 7 continents, the film renews our appreciation for one of the most extraordinary and awe inspiring inventions in the modern world.
View Trailer:   Click Here
Tickets:  Click Here

Meerkats 3D
(20 minutes)
Meerkats 3D takes audiences on a journey into the world of a family of meerkats — headed by fierce matriarch Klinky — as they cope with the challenges of life in the Kalahari Desert. Klinky and the rest of her family, including regular babysitters Miss Bean and Harry, must survive turf wars from rival clans and attacks from vicious predators big and small, all the while keeping one eye on the precious pups. Cute, cuddly, and full of mischief, meerkats are also tough, tenacious, and not to be messed with if their pups are threatened. Their adorable looks belie strength of purpose and innate intelligence that will amaze and beguile audiences of all ages!
View Trailer:   Click Here
Tickets:  Click Here

Walking with Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Planet 3D (20 minutes)
Take off on a prehistoric adventure with dinosaurs from over 70 million years ago with the film, Walking with Dinosaurs. A playful Pachyrhinosaurus named Patchi, the smallest of the pack, embarks on the biggest journey of his life as he tries to find his place in a spectacular world filled with fun-loving friends and a few dangerous foes. Watch Patchi discover the courage needed to become the leader of the heard and a hero for the ages. For the first time in movie history, see and feel what it was like when the astonishing dinosaurs ruled the Earth in stunning 3D.
View Trailer:   Click Here
Tickets:  Click Here


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74.  PROGRAMS AT LOG CABIN VILLAGE

Location:  2100 Log Cabin Village Lane, Fort Worth, TX  
Phone: 817-392-5881
Admission:  $4.50 ages 4-17 and 60+;  $5 ages 18+
Groups:  $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


AUGUST 22 - SEPTEMBER 7 --LOG CABIN VILLAGE CLOSED FOR MAINTENTANCE

OCT 24  -- Frontier Fall Fest
1-4pm
Grab your pumpkins and shuck your corn...it’s time for a good old-fashioned Frontier Fall Fest!  We’ll be celebrating with music from Buttermilk Junction and guests from the Embroiderer’s Guild of America, the Fort Worth Herd, the Greater Fort Worth Herb Society, and more!
Cost:  Regular Village Admission, plus $3 craft fee if you would like to make the corn husk doll

NOV 7 -- Cherokee Basket Weaving
1-4pm
Join Hannah as she guides you through the process of making your own beautiful Cherokee-style double walled basket.  Class is designed an adult or adult/child activity. 
Cost: $25 (includes general Village admission and class materials)
Reservations required: Registration opens in September

Limit of 2 children (ages 8 and up) per adult.

NOV 24 -- Firepit Cooking Class
9am-Noon
Participants for this camp will learn a bit about 19th century food preparation and prepare a meal of their own with fellow campers! Program is designed to be an adult or adult/child activity. 
Cost:
$25 per person (includes general Village admission, meal, and recipes to take home)
Reservations Required:  Registration Opens in September
Limit of 2 children (ages 8 and up) per adult. 

NOV 26 & 27 -- Closed for Thanksgiving

DEC 5 -- Holidays at the Hearth
1-4pm
Enjoy holiday music, string popcorn, spin the dreidel, and more!  You can even have your photo taken with our historic St. Nick ($5 fee for photo and folder). 
Cost:  Regular Village admission plus $2 craft fee if you would like to make an ornament.
No reservation required

DEC 19 -- Rag Doll with Embroidered Apron/Cape Class
1-4pm
Join Teresa as she guides you through the process of making your own rag doll with an embroidered apron/cape.  Program is designed to be an adult or adult/child activity. 
Cost:  $15 per person (includes general Village admission and class materials). 
Reservations Required:  Registration Opens in September
Limit of 2 children (ages 8 and up) per adult. 

DEC 24, 25, 31, 2015 & JAN 1, 2016 -- Closed for Holidays

JAN 9, 2016 -- Dutch Oven Cooking
1-4pm
Join us for a dutch oven cooking demonstration by our friends, the Prairie Dogs (Lone Star Dutch Oven Society)! 
Cost: Regular Village admission. 
No reservations required.


For More Information about the programs:  Click Here

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75.  DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE AT OLD CITY PARK

Location:  
Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park, 1515 South Harwood St.
                  (
located near the heart of downtown Dallas, close to the junction of Interstates 30 and 35)
Admission:  $9 Adult;  $7 Senior (65+);  $5 Child (4 to 12 years)
Dallas Heritage Village members are admitted free.

Group Pricing:
 15 - 49 People Adults: $8 per person; Seniors (65+): $6.50 per person
                       
  50 - 99 People Adults:  $7 per person; Seniors (65+): $6 per person
                         
100+ People Adults: $5 per person; Seniors (65+): $5 per person
*Admission prices for special events vary. Detailed information about upcoming events is listed in our Calendar of Events.

Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
           
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
           
Monday: Closed to the public
Closed:
January and August
Closed the following holidays:
Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

EVENTS

OCTOBER 9 -- Lone Star History Day
Mark your calendar for our annual home school event!
Details TBA

OCT 14 -- Barnyard Buddies:  Edgar Gets Ready for Bed by Jennifer Adams

Time: 11am
Admission: 1 Accompanying Adult FREE;   Additional adults $9;   $5/Ages 4-12;  FREE under 4
Details:  Details available soon

NOV 11 -- Barnyard Buddies:  The Poppy lady by Barbara Elizabeth Walsh
Time:  11am
Admission:  
1 Accompanying Adult FREE;   Additional adults $9;   $5/Ages 4-12;  FREE under 4
Details:  Details available soon

DEC 9 -- Barnyard Buddies: Dream Snow by Eric Carle
Time:  11am
Admission:  
1 Accompanying Adult FREE;   Additional adults $9;   $5/Ages 4-12;  FREE under 4
Details:  Come to “la cocina en mi casa” (the kitchen in my house) or to Mrs. DeLeon’s kitchen in the Section House as she shows us how to grind corn to make delicious foods from family recipes!

For More Information or to Purchase Tickets:  
Click Here


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


Homeschool Workshops:

Cost:  $15 per participating student;  Parents & children 3 and under free
Registration Details:  Workshops & tours must be booked at least 3 weeks in advance,
and are conducted during regular museum hours.
Workshops are held rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Topics Offered:
--Teens Telegraphing

How did kids know what the weekend plans were? What did they do to let friends know what was happening? Today, everything and everyone is connected, and within seconds of something happening, texts and photos are being sent across town and the country. How did people communicate long ago? Learn how we kept in touch when we were restricted by technology, etiquette, and social rules.
--Home Arts of the Pioneers
Pioneers knew how to spin, weave and sew along with the many other chores needed just to survive. With all the labor required every day just to persevere, why would they take the extra time to learn the additional skills and techniques to decorate basic everyday objects? We’ll go back in time and try to understand the creative heart of the pioneers.
--Pioneer Pets
Could your pet make it in the Old West? How do you pet a chicken? Can you envision your pampered lap cat with the job title of “Rat Killer”? Just like the pioneer children, the animals had chores too! During your workshop, learn a lesson in Donkey Care 101, what Fluffy would have to do to earn her keep and more.
For More Information:  Click Here to email or 214-413-3664

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76.  OLD RED MUSEUM OF DALLAS COUNTY HISTORY AND CULTURE

Location:  Old Red Museum, 100 South Houston Street, Dallas, TX  75202
Phone: 214-757-1949
Hours:
The Museum is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
The Museum will be closed on the following days:
December 24th & 25th

Admission:
General admission: $8
                 Senior (64+)/Student admission: $6 (students must show current high school or university ID)
                 Children ages 3-16: $5
                 Children under age 3: Free
                 Old Red Members: Free (Must Provide Proof of Membership)
                 Sunday Only – Early Bird Special: $5 for tickets purchased before noon
                 Jury Duty – Visitors can receive a reduced admission of $4 with proof of jury duty
General Admission tickets include admission to both the permanent galleries on the second floor and any special exhibit on the first floor.
Special Exhibits Only:  
Free with Old Red Museum General Admission
Special Exhibit Gallery Only: 
$3.00 adults; $1.00 children 3-16; Free for children under 3 years of age
Groups:  
Groups of 20 people or more, $5 each. This special pricing is ONLY AVAILABLE BY MAKING ADVANCED ARRANGEMENTS. Please call the group sales department at 214-757-1949 or click to email to book a group sale to take advantage of this price.

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



CURRENT EXHIBITS
THORUGH SEPTEMBER 26, 2015 -- Border Studies
The Texas-Mexico border is more than a line between two countries. It is a realm unto itself with a culture of its own, shaped partly by forces from the interior on both sides, but more decisively by the millions who choose to live and work there. The border is a cradle of hope—and anxiety—for the well-being of both Mexico and the United States. “Border Studies” features images by eight gifted photographers and maps showing historical relocations of the border. This exhibition highlights the vitality of places, people and patterns of culture along the Texas-Mexico Border.  Additionally, the museum will display hand-crafted Mexican dolls and clothing from its own collection.  These objects were originally purchased by a Texas ranch family who crossed the border to acquire laborers under the Bracero Program, which lasted from 1947 to 1964.

OCTOBER 2015 - JUNE 2016 -- On the Homefront:  Dallas during World War II
In celebration of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II, this exhibit will examine the everyday lives of women and men on the homefront.  Artifacts, stories, photographs and letters will illuminate the process of converting a domestic economy to war production where scrap drives, rationing and war bond sales became a reality for the Dallas community. Educational programming for school groups will be integrated into this exhibit.

OTHER EXHIBITS:
Early Years: Prehistory to 1873
Trading Center

Big D
World Crossroads


HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Future Home School Programs TBA

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.
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.

HISTORY CONFERENCE FOR EDUCATORS
SEPTEMBER 19 -- Old Red: An Annual Conference on Texas, United States, and World History
8:30am - 3:30pm
Cost:  $25
Theme: Immigration.
    ·         Speakers from leading area universities will present informative immigration perspectives on Texas, United States, and World History.
    ·         Keynote speaker is former Secretary of Education, Margaret Spellings.
    ·         Teaching credits available through Region 10.
    ·         Lunch will be served and teachers will also have the benefit of breakout sessions where curriculum materials will be provided.
 To Register:  oldred.org

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77.  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.

Stars & Stories (In the Planetarium Gallery)
10:15am
Cost:  Regular museum admission
Details:  Join the Noble Planetarium and the Fort Worth Public Library for Stars and Stories!  This storytime for our youngest astronomers will feature a story read by librarians from the Fort Worth Public Library and then the planetarium show One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure!  Stars and Stories is FREE with museum admission!
OCT 13
NOV 10


2015 Star Parties
:
SEPT 19*; OCT 17;  NOV 21
*September 19 -- Stars Over Euless
-- The September star party will take place at Bob Eden Park in Euless, Texas.  There will not be a star party at the museum this month
Cost:  
Free
Location:   In the Musuem's South Parking Lot. (Except for September 19)
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
              

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78.  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

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79.  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
 

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80.  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
 

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81.  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

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82.  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/


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83.  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

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.

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



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84.  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 


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85.  ELITE TRACK CLUB/CROSS COUNTRY PROGRAM


For More Information:  Click Here to email or 817-800-3922                                
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86.  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.
 
Cheerleading:  Girls junior high cheerleading squad for the 2015 football season.  Click here to contact the coach.  

Cross Country:
If you are interested in joining HSAA Cross Country, p
lease click here to contact the Track Commissioner.

Football: 11-Man Tackle Football...Middle School, JV, and Varsity!
Open to boys, ages 11 to 18 and in grades 6 through 12, HSAA Football promises to provide each student-athlete with a Christ-centered approach to sports. Though competitive in nature, to be sure, HSAA will not sacrifice core values to win at all costs.

Instead, coaches and parents – and team mentors (varsity players and those who have recently graduated) – work with the players to build character for life.

Registration details: Click Here

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87.  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.

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



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

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88.  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.

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89.  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.

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



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


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90.  PARKER-TARRANT HOME SCHOOL SPORTS

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/

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91.  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


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92.  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 2014-2015.
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

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93.  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

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94.  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

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95.   HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM AT LANTANA GOLF CLUB

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM
SPRING 2015 SESSION

Experience the Game of Golf! Lantana Golf Club is offering three separate golf programs for juniors, age 8-17, in 2015. 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 named "Best Golf Instructor Denton County 2011, 2012 and 2013" 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 ext. 308 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


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96.  HEART OF TEXAS MENTOR PROGRAM

We are excited to announce that we are rolling out our new HEART of Texas Homeschool Mentor Program for homeschooling families! 
The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide real-time, face-to-face, one-on-one help for new homeschool moms and dads who are starting their homeschool journey.

If you are a veteran home educator who would like the opportunity to encourage and support the next generation of home schoolers, please consider becoming a HEART Mentor.  Please email Anne regarding the program (include Mentor in subject line) and she will connect you with our Mentor Coordinator.

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97.  DFW SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

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

 

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98.  DENTON COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ASSOCIATION

This group has no announcements this month.

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99.  IRVING HOME SCHOOLERS

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

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


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100.  PEACH

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


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101.  OFFICIAL 2015 COLLEGE BOARD TEST DATES

2015 PSAT TEST DATES: 
OCTOBER 14
OCTOBER 17
To Find out When Your Local High School is Offering the PSAT Test:  Click Here

PSAT TESTING FEE:  $15 (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.
PSAT Code for Texas Homeschoolers:  
994499

Information for Students with Disabilities: Click Here

2015 SAT TEST DATES:

OCTOBER 3 -- Registration Deadline Sept 3
NOVEMBER 7 -- Registration Deadline Oct 9
DECEMBER 5 -- Registration Deadline Nov 5
JANUARY 23 -- Registration Deadline Dec 28
MAR 5 -- Registration Deadline Feb 5
MAY 7 -- Registration Deadline Apr 8
JUN 4 -- Registration Deadline May 5
To Register For SAT Test:  Click Here


For SAT Subject Test Calendar:  Click Here

For More Information:
Click Here



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102.  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
                     
 
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103.  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, 2015

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
 (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.


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104.  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
                                  

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105.  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    


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106.  VOLUNTEER AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO -- WEEKDAY HOME SCHOOL VOLUNTEENS PROGRAM

The Fort Worth Zoo's Weekday Home School Volunteens Program provides home-schooled teens, ages 12-17, the opportunity to assist Fort Worth Zoo Preschool teachers by helping set up, clean up, and assist students with crafts and excursions into the Zoo.

Volunteens come in once a week, for half of the day -- either from 8:45am to 12:15pm or from 12:45pm to 4:15pm.
The fall session runs from September to December;  the spring sessions runs from January to May.

Applications are completed online and interviews are scheduled after the final application date.  After interviewing all applicangs, the Education staff will make selections.  Selected Volunteens are required to attend a mandatory orientation prior to the start of the semester.

Registration ends JULY 7
For More Information, or to Apply:
 Click Here


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107.  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 the 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


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108.  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.


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109.  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    

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110.  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


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111. FREE ORGAN RECITALS IN DALLAS

FREE ORGAN RECITAL DATES
FUTURE DATES TBA -- No recitals are given during the summer months.

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

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

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112. READING PROGRAMS 2015

Barnes & Noble -- Read 8 Books & Earn a Free Book
May 19-Sept 17, 2015
Download the Reading Journal.
Read any 8 books this summer
Record them in the Reading Journal
Bring completed Journal to Barnes & Noble store
Choose your Free Reading adventure from the book list featured on the back of the Journal.


Chuck E. Cheese -- Read 14 Day & Get 10 free tokens
Expires Dec 31, 2015
Download the Reading Log Here

Half Price Books -- Read 300 minutes each month for $5 Bookworm Bucks
8th Grade & Under:  Read 15 minutes a day for a month in June & July (grown ups may read aloud to kids who are still learning).  
Download the Reading Log.
Program runs through July.  HPB Bookworm Bucks coupons are valid through August 27.
High School: Read a book each month in June & July and write a short review. No reading log.
Just bring your review to your local Half Price Books to claim your Bookworm Bucks.
Submit your review here starting June 1.

H.E.Buddy Reading Program
-- Read 10 books for tee shirt & prizes.
Download Reading Log.
Form must be postmarked by October 1, 2015
Program is intended solely for children who are residents of Texas between the ages of 3-12.

PBS Summer Reading Camp -- Everything you need for 10 fun weeks of reading
Weekly Themes:  Bugs, Heroes, Reading Quest, Animal Antics, Make Music, Dragons & Dinos,
Play Outside, Get Wet!, Sports & Games, and World of Words
Must Subscribe to Education.com to Access

Public Library Reading Programs -- Click here to locate a library near you.



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You are receiving this newsletter because you have requested it through our website or on a sign-up sheet at an event or at a booth.

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 $20 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!


To subscribe:  Visit 
http://www.heartoftex.org  Scroll to the bottom of the page and enter your email address in newsletter field.
To unsubscribe, go to: http://www.heartoftex.org/unsubscribe


HEART of Texas     P.O. Box 211882    Bedford, TX  76095-1882    http://www.heartoftex.org