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ENOCH of New Jersey e-Newsletter
FEBRUARY 2012
From the President’s Desk
Dear Friends,
In honor of President's Day, I am putting aside my monthly letter. I hope you enjoy the trivia.
Until next month,
Rich Millward
President
National Geographic News compiled the following presidential trivia:
How They Measured Up
The smallest President was James Madison (Presidential term 1809-17). The fourth President, Madison stood 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighed less than 100 pounds.
The oldest President ever elected was Ronald Reagan (1981-89). The 40th President took office at the age of 69
.
The youngest elected President was John F. Kennedy (1961-63), who reached the White House at 43. But the youngest President to ever serve was Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09), who was elected Vice President on a ticket with President William McKinley. In September 1901 a deranged anarchist shot McKinley twice in Buffalo, New York, and Roosevelt assumed the top office at 42.
Assassination and Death
Four sitting Presidents have been assassinated while in office: Abraham Lincoln (1861-65), James Abram Garfield (1881), William McKinley (1897-1901), and John F. Kennedy (1961-63).
Six other Presidents were luckier and survived their assassination attempts: Andrew Jackson (1829-37), Theodore Roosevelt (1901-09), Franklin Roosevelt (1933-45), Harry Truman (1945-53), Gerald Ford (1974-77), and Ronald Reagan (1981-89).
Other Presidents have died while in office:
• William Henry Harrison (1841), the ninth President, died of pneumonia one month to the day after making—in the snow—the longest U.S. presidential inauguration speech on record.
• Zachary Taylor (1849-50), the 12th President, died in 1850 of an inflamed stomach and intestines just 16 months after he took office.
• Warren Harding (1921-23), died suddenly on August 2, 1923 of a heart attack.
{Presidents that died on July 4th:}*
• John Adams (1797-1801), the second President, and Thomas Jefferson (1801-09), the third President, both died on July 4, 1826. Calvin Coolidge (1923-29), the 30th President, was born on July 4, 1872.
Geography
The first President born a U.S. citizen was Martin Van Buren (1837-41). Van Buren was delivered on December 5, 1782, making him the first President born after the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Virginia is the birthplace of the greatest number of Presidents. It boasts eight. Thirty-one states have never claimed a native son as President.
Teddy Roosevelt was the first President to travel abroad while in office; he visited the Panama Canal in 1906.
In 1943, Franklin Roosevelt made the first Presidential flight.
Richard Nixon was the first President to visit all 50 states.
Elections and Politics
George W. Bush, the 43rd and current President{at the time this article was written}*, lost the popular vote to Al Gore in 2000. Bush is the fourth President to attain the highest office in the U.S. without the backing of the majority of the people. He shares the distinction with John Quincy Adams, Rutherford B. Hayes (1877-81), and Benjamin Harrison.
James Monroe (1817-25), the fifth President, received every Electoral College vote except one. The holdout: a New Hampshire delegate who wanted to preserve the legacy of George Washington, the first and only President elected unanimously by the Electoral College.
Gerald Ford (1974-77) was the only President to serve who was not elected by U.S. voters either as President or Vice President. In 1973 then-President Richard Nixon (1969-74) appointed Ford Vice President after former Vice President Spiro Agnew resigned. When Nixon resigned from the White House on August 9, 1974 (the only President to do so), Ford became President.
George W. Bush is the second President to follow in the footsteps of his father. George Herbert Walker Bush was the 41st President. John Quincy Adams (1825-29), the sixth President, was the son of John Adams (1797-1801), the second President.
*inserts were
added by editor of ENOCH Newsletter, Toni DiGiovacchino
Encouraging Words For Homeschoolers Across The Nation
Finding
Encouragement in Christ while Homeschooling your Special Needs Child by
Annette Hooper
I
can’t help but look back at the past years when I was homeschooling my
now 14 year old autistic son. Even though my husband and I always knew
homeschool was the best fit for him, I wonder at times how we did it.
Years ago, I truly believed that my child’s progress was all dependent
on my works. The more done, the more covered, the better. The Lord
eventually revealed to me, that no matter how much I tried to plan out
our schedules and our lives, He decides the steps we will be taking (Proverbs 16:9).
I know now that I would have never been able to walk through this path,
assigned by the Lord, had it not been for my faith in Christ. One thing I wished I would have done in the past, that I felt led to do as a 2011 New Year resolution, was to shower myself with the Word of God in prayer. Little did I know a year ago, that this past year would be filled with so many challenges. At times I found myself so helpless, hopeless, confused, and frustrated. I constantly worried. I realized I lacked trust in the Lord. I knew God needed to work in me (Proverbs 3:12). I knew I needed to have a change in heart, and I couldn’t do this on my own. I needed God’s power to work through me (Psalms 37:4). Throughout the year the Lord poured scriptures to me. I didn’t understand at the time how the scriptures applied to my life. However, I started recording them into my Bible. Brothers and sisters in Christ were also praying with me and sharing scriptures, and I continued to record them. Had it not been for the Word of God, I would not have been able to find the strength and sustenance that I needed (2 Timothy 3: 16 & Hebrews 4:12). Little did I know, the Lord would later draw me closer to Him through these specific scriptures.
Throughout the year the Lord guided me to Proverbs 4: 4-27 and 1 Thessalonians 4: 1-12. God revealed to me how much I needed to seek His wisdom, His righteousness, His protection and guidance with all my heart, in all I do. I continued to come across scriptures that reminded me to stay steadfast in His Word. I needed not only to read His Word, seek His will, but also apply His Word into my life. I also felt compelled to talk to my son about it during his Bible lessons. My biggest lesson this past year was to trust God with everything (Proverbs 3: 5-6). We as parents need to stay on the righteous path for God’s protection, and our family’s protection. There is a lot of evil that surrounds us that we tend to overlook as we go through our daily lives. Following the Word of God is the most important thing we can do and teach to our children, our loved ones. All this can not be done overnight, it’s a daily process. But we can follow them with His strength (Philippians 4:19).
Your struggling and/or special needs child was given to you so the Lord could reveal His glory (John 9:1-3). He knew you were the best parent for this child. Providing for the needs of a struggling and/or special needs child can be very overwhelming. We can easily be absorbed by their needs. Trust in Him with all your personal matters and your child’s needs. The Lord is the only one that can guide us, provide to us, and help us prioritize our goals. When you feel weary and overwhelmed, ask for the Lord’s strength (1 Corinthians 1: 7-8, 2 Corinthians 12:9 & Zechariah 10: 12). When we are restored in the Lord we can think clearer and have a better perspective of life. Commit this year wholeheartedly to start your day in scripture and in prayer (Psalms 17:6 & 1Thessalonians 5:16-18). Let the Lord flow through you and your family. Pray that the Lord be in control of your day and guide you through. Read daily or try to memorize “the Armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10-18). Ask the Lord to help you avoid and turn away from all evil (1 John 5:14-15 & Psalms 119:11). I encourage you to fellowship and pray with other Christians who are steadfast in the Word of God. This has been a huge encouragement and priceless to me. May the Lord bless you this year, encourage you, and overflow you with His blessings!
HANDS-ON LEARNING
Part Two of a
Three-Part Series by Nancy Manos
There
are an unending number of activities you can incorporate into your home
education adventure with very little preparation, time, or
money!
Even if you’re not especially creative, don’t despair. This list will
inspire you and get your creative juices flowing. Use these
suggestions as a springboard to find resources at the library or on the
Internet that will give you more specific ideas and
directions. MOTION-BASED ACTIVITIES
Motion-based activities are perfect for the kinesthetic learner or a child with lots of energy!
Marching, Rolling, Jumping, Bouncing a Ball
Have your children say their math facts (skip counting, times tables, etc.), spell their spelling words, or answer questions while marching, rolling, jumping, or bouncing a ball.
One of my girls’ favorite activities when they were learning phonics was “Tumbling with Mom.” We would pick a word ending like “at” and then take turns doing a forward roll on the carpet while adding a letter and making a word (cat, bat, sat, rat) until we couldn’t think of any more words with that ending. What they loved most was that I wasn’t on the sidelines watching them; I was doing it WITH them.
Shooting Baskets
Have your child answer a question then toss an object into a basket. The object could be a ball, small stuffed animal, bean bag, or rolled up pair of socks; the basket an empty box, a laundry basket, a plastic bin, etc.
Felt Shapes
Felt is an inexpensive material that can be used for myriad activities. Use a permanent marker to write numbers, letters, facts, etc. on pieces of felt. Call out a question and have the child jump onto the correct answer. You can attach pieces of adhesive-backed Velcro® to a ping pong ball and have your child toss the ball onto the felt squares. The Velcro® will cause the ball to stick to the felt. This would be a great way to learn the books of the Bible in order, for example.
REVIEW GAME AND WORD GAME IDEAS
Anytime you can review what you’re learning in a fun, creative way the more apt your child is to remember it.
Concentration
A game of Concentration is a great way to reinforce vocabulary. Write each vocabulary word and definition on separate pieces of cardstock or index cards – use one color paper for vocabulary words and another color for definitions. Place the cards face down on the floor or table – definitions in one area, vocabulary words in another – and take turns choosing one of each to try to make a match.
Create a Word Puzzle
A favorite review exercise at our house was for the girls to take their vocabulary words and create a crossword puzzle or word search (plus answer key) on graph paper. We made photocopies of the puzzles for Dad and others to solve.
Create a Board Game
Let your children use a piece of posterboard or cardboard and other art supplies to create a board game. They can compose question cards that go with a topic they are studying. Designing the game board layout and rules of play helps them learn strategy and organization as well.
Pictionary, Scattergories, Trivial Pursuit
These are examples of board games you can play with words pertaining to what you’re studying. If you have any of these games, go through the cards and find ones that go with your topic, or you can create your own cards. Then play the game according to the rules using those cards you’ve selected or made.
Sorting Games
Younger children can learn to sort and sequence (smallest to largest, shortest to tallest, lightest to darkest, smoothest to roughest, etc.) using household objects, food, clothing, toys, and objects from nature.
Bingo
Create Bingo cards to go with a topic or theme. For example, your children could use stickers to create Animal Bingo cards, putting a different animal sticker in each box. You can create a grid on the computer or draw one by hand with as many boxes as you like. Nine to twelve boxes works well for younger children, and 16-25 boxes for older students. We often played Preposition Bingo with our girls when they were learning grammar. I would give them a blank Bingo grid and they would write prepositions they chose from a list that I would provide. I used the list to call off prepositions until someone got Bingo. To make your Bingo cards reusable, give your children little candies (a roll of Smarties works really well), cereal such as Cheerios, or plastic counters to mark the spots that have been called.
Songs
There are a number of good resources available for using songs to reinforce concepts and facts - or you can make up your own. Examples include multiplication, skip counting, addition, subtraction, etc. There is also a really good product called Lyrical Life Science that puts science information to familiar (and some not-so-familiar) tunes.
Words-within-a-Word
Words-within-a-Word is a great language exercise. Choose a long word or a short phrase that goes with what you’re studying (such as “The Human Body” or “The Declaration of Independence” or “Metamorphosis”). Set a timer for 2-5 minutes and have each person make a list of as many words as they can find using the letters in that word or phrase. Each letter may only be used once (i.e. if there are three E’s, then only three E’s may be used in any one new word).
Memorization Game
This is a very easy way to help children memorize a Bible verse, quote, or other saying. Write each word on an individual index card. Tape the cards to a wall, door, or other flat surface. Read the entire verse together out loud a few times. Then, one at a time, start removing the cards. (The cards do not necessarily have to be removed in order – a student can remove a card from anywhere in the saying.) Say the entire verse out loud after each card is removed until all of the cards are gone. If you have several children, have them take turns removing cards. At the end, have them say the verse together without any visual cues, and then see if they can put the cards back up in the correct order.
Jeopardy
A favorite review game for the end of a study is to make a Jeopardy game. Create categories and 4 or 5 questions for each category, giving each question a point value (100, 200, 300) with the lower point value questions being easier and the higher point questions a bit harder. Tape the cards to a wall with the point value side facing out (questions hidden) and have your children take turns asking for and answering questions (“I’d like Invertebrates for 400, please.”). Jeopardy is a great review game for the end of a co-op, too. For a study on the human body, for example, categories might be The Integumentary System, The Skeletal System, and The Circulatory System. Or for U.S. Geography, the categories might be Landmarks, Notable People, and Capital Cities.
Nancy Manos has been serving on the board of directors of Arizona Families for Home Education (AFHE) with her husband, James, since 2004. Nancy and James have two daughters whom they homeschooled through high school. The Manos’ home education journey was a rich, rewarding, sometimes challenging experience, and Nancy is passionate about encouraging others in the homeschool adventure.
check back next month for part III.....if you missed part I, check our website for the January Newsletter!
A WORD FROM OUR GUEST SPEAKERS ....
DON'T MISS THEM AT OUR ANNUAL ENOCH HOMESCHOOL CONVENTION COMING MAY 2012!
THE HIDDEN POWER OF GOD IN PARENTING…by Tracy Klicka
Every now and then I pull out an old photo album of our family, just for the laughs I get at seeing again some of the antics of our kids when they were little. From their experiments in the kitchen where my young girls would often seem to get more of what they were trying to bake on themselves than in the oven, to their elaborate productions complete with costumes, props and dramatic voices, I love seeing their smiling, giggly faces and remembering their laughter.Those days seem so long ago now. In the midst of raising five teens and having launched, but certainly not let go of two adult children, I sometimes miss the busy, boisterous, creative days of my young children and their smaller, more easily manageable challenges!
There is a beautiful discovery awaiting every parent, however, when their children reach the young adult years. It’s called growing up. I’m not talking about our kids growing into adult bodies; rather, I’m referring to our children growing in maturity and wisdom and fruitfulness for the Lord.
God has given us a gift during the years our kids are transitioning from children to adults. There is a tremendous amount of amazing development going on in our young people during this time, but it often is masked by the questions, doubts and struggles our children have along the way to adulthood.
The Example of Bamboo
I love the story of the farmer and the Chinese bamboo tree, for it accurately reflects what the teen years are often like. When a farmer plants a bamboo tree in the ground, though he waters and fertilizes it for a year, he sees absolutely no growth. The second year he does the same and he sees…no growth. The third year is spent doing the same. Again, no growth. At this point, I’m wondering how the first bamboo farmer kept going (!) for once again, in the fourth year, though there is the same faithful watering and fertilizing…there is alas, no visible growth.
This last adjective is important to notice—for several years the farmer sees no visible growth. This is where as parents so many of us can relate. We invest in our children’s hearts, giving them the Word of God, praying with and for them, seeking to bring the truth of the gospel into their lives. Then we wait with longing to see spiritual fruit and genuine faith come forth from their hearts. And for many of us, what we see is similar to what that bamboo farmer sees—a tiny, little stub of a bamboo shoot, certainly not reflective of what we’ve been pouring into our children for so many years!
What the bamboo farmer doesn’t see all those years he’s tending the bamboo is that the tree has been growing an extensive and powerful root system that finally, during its fifth year, will support an incredible growth spurt of as much as three feet a day! In just a few months’ time, that bamboo tree will grow 80-90 feet!
I confess that often in parenting my teenage children I’ve been tempted to anxiety and fear when a child questioned my authority, methods or direction. I’ve gotten discouraged when I’ve heard words that clearly were not indicative of faith in their hearts.
In addition, at times I myself have given in to anger and frustration, wanting to somehow mold my children into obedience and faithfulness. Parenting alone can be especially challenging, and I so miss Chris’s patient, faith-infused input as the spiritual head of our home.
Does the Farmer Make the Bamboo Grow?
God gives us solid wisdom in His Word that He is the one who guides, protects, and works in hearts, mine as well as my children’s! One very meaningful verse as I seek to nurture and train my children in the Lord is found in Philippians 2:13, “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” Knowing God is the one at work in our children’s hearts, and knowing that He can be trusted with the nurturing and shepherding of our children’s souls give parents great hope.
We can have certainty that, although we may not see a consistent season of fruitfulness in our children’s young adult lives, God can be trusted with their hearts. Does this mean, however, that as parents we just sit back and do nothing during our children’s teen years because God is at work? Never!
Just before this verse in Philippians 2 Paul instructs believers, “Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence, but much more in my absence work out your own salvation with fear and trembling…for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for His good pleasure.” (Phil. 2:12-13)
There is a beautiful balance between our faithfulness and God’s work. Just as in the Christian life we are to seek after God with all our hearts and ground ourselves in His Word that we might grow in godliness, God wants us to be busy as parents, teaching and training—studying our children, praying with and for them, giving them the wisdom and power of the Scriptures, and listening to their dreams and fears and frustrations and struggles—all with our eyes fixed on Jesus.
Our young people are often up and down moment by moment, and can sway widely in their desires and goals. Some of our children have God clearly in their viewfinder yet still need lots of direction; others seem to be chasing castles in the sky without a thought for their Creator. When we fix our eyes only on our children’s words and behavior, it can be like seeing just the little stub of the bamboo tree above ground.
Two Ways of Looking at the Bamboo
Looking at that little bamboo stub year one, two, three and even four, we might be seriously tempted to laugh and say, “You’re trying to tell me that is a bamboo tree? I’m just not buying it!” Likewise, looking at our children and seeing nothing but a little stub of Godwardness (I know, I made up that word!) may stir up unbelief in our hearts, as I know it has me, and cause us to weep for our children’s souls. We can give in to hopelessness or self-condemnation when we don’t see a tall, strong bamboo tree in our children.
Seeing spiritual growth in our children, however, can be just as much of a stumbling block as not seeing fruit. Our response as parents to seeing or not seeing maturity and spiritual fruitfulness in our children can either be one of pride and false confidence, or utter despair and condemnation. Neither of these is what the Lord wants for us.
When we see spiritual growth in our children we may somehow think we are the ones responsible for that fruit. Philippians 2:13 is a strong reminder, however, that it is God, and Him alone who works in us and our children not just to do good, but also to even desire to do good. Look at that bamboo; ultimately, we as parent farmers do not make it grow. God does. This is both humbling and comforting.
On the other hand, when our children seem to be in a state of spiritual stagnation, or worse, when they look like their hearts are being drawn away from the Lord, this is also the time to remember the bamboo plant. While there is no guarantee that their hearts are growing in the right direction, when we’re not seeing visible growth it may nevertheless, be an indication that God is still indeed at work in their hearts, though His power may be hidden from us for a season. This is also comforting and a reason for hope.
God wants us to look with eyes of faith, parents. He is the one who works in hearts; He delights to show Himself strong toward those who diligently seek Him with all their hearts (II Chronicles 16:9)—what is to keep us, as parents, from running after the Lord?
Our Father loves to magnify Himself in our eyes. We can cry out to God for Him to be at work in our children hearts, drawing them to Himself in faith, trust and surrender. This kind of prayer and our dependence on the Lord, even as we “work” to reach them for Christ is very God-glorifying!
After years of crying out to God on behalf of my children for Him to be their first, best and truest love, I am seeing strong shoots of faith in their lives. With trust in a great God who loves to see His children grow, we can anticipate God’s marvelous work of root building in our children that will, by His grace lead to hopefully, an explosion of spiritual growth just like that bamboo tree.
Tracy Klicka is the widow of Christopher Klicka, who was Senior Counsel of Home School Legal Defense Association. Married 21 years, they were blessed with seven children, whom they homeschooled since their birth. Through many trials over the years (including the near—death of their twins during her pregnancy, and Chris’ struggles with multiple sclerosis), Tracy has learned firsthand what walking by faith is all about. She has seen over and over again the outpouring of God’s grace in her life, and the precious importance of the Scriptures in sustaining and empowering believers. Her message for moms is one of hope and joy in God, who is able to make all grace abound to us (II Corinthians 9:8). She has written dozens of articles, has been interviewed on both national and international media, and has spoken at numerous state homeschool conventions to encourage women to see God’s faithfulness as they take him at His Word.
Socialization
in High School Oversold By J. Michael Smith, HSLDA
Every
parent wants his or her child to grow up to be a mature, responsible
adult. It's a natural desire, since well-behaved children reflect
favorably on their parents. Also, young adults with good character tend
to become good citizens who benefit society.But what's the best method to achieve this result? Parents' choices include sending their children to an institutional school or home-schooling. Home schools long have been criticized as not providing an adequate social environment for children to mature into good citizens. As we shall discover, this isn't true.
Of course, no one can guarantee a child will turn out well, but it's possible to avoid pitfalls. Almost everyone agrees that particularly difficult years for children and parents are the teenage years. Why do so many teenagers behave badly? This is the subject of a new study by Murray Milner, professor emeritus of sociology at the University of Virginia.
Mr. Milner concludes that because teenagers are sent to school by their parents and have little control over what happens in school, the students are rendered powerless. This encourages them to promote the only power they do have -- the power to decide who's cool and who's not. In other words, teenagers can control the status levels of their peers.
What makes the question of status problematic is that everyone can't be at the top at the same time. The amount of available status is fixed, so if someone moves up, someone else must move down. Many former high school students can attest to the vagaries of this system. Common sense dictates that if numerous students are focused on their status, with many enduring endless putdowns, it will negatively affect their academic and social development.
Critics of home-schooling often claim that this form of high school socialization is necessary so students can face the real world. But does the real world look like high school?
It's difficult to imagine a more artificial environment for socialization than the public high school. Children are segregated by age and move from grade to grade within a narrow band of their immediate peers. This is a completely foreign environment to the one high school graduates will face. The high school experience does not easily translate to the real world. Home-school critics falsely believe that in order to be properly socialized, a child needs to spend long hours with children in his or her peer group.
In contrast, the home-school environment is not a constant battle for status. Status in a home school also is fixed, but it is fixed within the family. The child is always the child, and the parent is always the parent. Home-school parents should take care, however, to avoid playing favorites with their children.
Home-schooling is a much healthier environment because home-school teens do not have to be exposed to the high school system. The constant presence of peer pressure simply doesn't exist in the overwhelming majority of home schools. It's unnecessary. The home-school teenager is able to focus on gaining an excellent education and interacting with more adults than children.
But what of the critics' claim that home-schoolers have difficulty socializing? According to a study by the National Home Education Research Institute, home-school graduates are happier and more involved in their communities than the average public-school student. Home-schooling helps children avoid the social problems of high school.
Therefore, home-schooled children are more likely to grow up to be the mature, responsible citizens our society desperately needs.
Attorney Mike Smith is the President of HSLDA, an organization that he helped found in 1983. Established to protect the right of parents to teach their children at home, HSLDA now represents over 80,000 member families. Mike and his wife Elizabeth began homeschooling their children in 1981. He has been defending families for 28 years. Mike has been speaking to homeschool audiences for 23 years. His columns on home education appear regularly in the Washington Times, and he has been a guest on numerous television and radio programs, including Focus on the Family with Jim Dobson and Hannity and Colmes on Fox News. He believes that there is a revival taking place in America through the homeschool movement and that, through the second and third generation of homeschoolers, there is great potential to return America to its moral and religious foundation.
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Why Join HSLDA?
Protects your right to homeschool and defends your family. A lawyer is on call 24/7.Provides fast help by phone or email: Get direct answers to your specific questions about home education. Veteran homeschooling parents are available to answer your questions and help you find resources for teaching your children:
• Early years (PreK–8th grade)
• High school (including preparing for college or career paths)
• Struggling learners (special needs/gifted and talented)
Preserves homeschool freedom for all families by promoting homeschooling nationwide, as well as by working with state homeschooling groups to pass homeschool-friendly legislation and stop unfavorable bills at the state and federal levels.
Partners you with the cause: Although homeschooling is recognized in every state, HSLDA receives phone calls each day from families whose right to homeschool is being challenged or discriminated against by school officials, social workers, employers, colleges, armed services recruitment officers, and government bureaucrats. The customizable nature of homeschooling defies the educational elite’s ideal of mandatory, uniform indoctrination—making parental choice in education a target for elimination. By joining HSLDA, you are supporting families who are fighting for their right to homeschool today and standing together to preserve homeschooling freedom for tomorrow.
You can receive ENOCH's Discount Number to save on your HSLDA Membership by contacting ENOCH via the Office Email, office@enochnj.org.
For more information visit the HSLDA website: www.hslda.org
OTHER EVENTS AND OPPORTUNITIES
The Michael Vey Challenge
If you are an educator, teacher or home school group organizer, register your class/group to participate in the Michael Vey Challengeto promote reading and creative writing with the #1 best-selling book, Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 and enter-to-win BIG prizes!
(Click here to register your class/group to participate in the Michael Vey Challenge). Please feel free to pass this information on to your educator colleagues.
Contest Assignment: Students will read Michael Vey: The Prisoner of Cell 25 as elective (AR) reading and write an essay (750 words or less) on the following question:
(Click here for Contest Description).
If you could join the Electroclan with Michael Vey, what would your special natural ability be, and how would you use your power to positively impact the world?
Contest Prizes: The winning essay will receive the opportunity to have his or her name and/or school written into the 2nd book in the Michael Vey series:Rise of the Elgen.
An autographed classroom set of Michael Vey books, posters and t-shirts. Author Richard Paul Evans will also make an appearance at the winning student’s school and
award the teacher with a $1,000 Gift Card to purchase classroom supplies. (Click here to view prizes).
Contest Submission: Teachers will read their students’ essays and select the best essay to submit into this contest. (Click here for contest rules).
Submit the essay along with the Michael Vey Challenge Submission Form**by February 28, 2012 to: (Click here for resources).
** (Please contact the Michael Vey Challenge website for form or Melissa at number below to obtain copy of Submission form)
Please send essay along with the submission form to:
Motive Entertainment
Attn: Michael Vey Challenge Entry
1149 3rd Street, Suite 210, Santa Monica, CA 90403
Winners will be announced on March 15, 2012
If you have any further questions please refer to the Michael Vey Challenge website or call Melissa @ (310) 393-9102.
Good Luck and thank you for participating in the Michael Vey Challenge
Research Methods and Writing Course
A high school-level course (for roughly ages 15 to adult) Winter/Spring 2012Dr. Brian Ray of the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI) is the instructor.
Dr. Ray is offering this Research Methods and Writing course to help you:
- Learn how to design a research project.
- Understand different types of research.
- Explore, in-depth, a subject of your personal interest.
- Critique research done by academics, think tanks, professors, and others.
- Broaden your understanding of and evaluate claims in newspapers and other news media.
- Enhance your knowledge and use of logic.
- Conduct a literature review founded on research-based sources.
- Write a social science research paper.
- Know when to use certain basic statistics.
Dr. Ray has taught students at all levels – elementary school, junior high school, high school, and undergraduate and graduate university – over the course of many years. He has taught private school, public school, and homeschool students. Dr. Ray is an energetic and engaging teacher and has received much praise for his teaching and speaking abilities. He serves as the president of the National Home Education Research Institute and is internationally known for his homeschool research, service as an expert witness in court cases and before legislatures, and speaking at educational conferences, including those for home educators. Dr. Ray and his wife have eight children and live on a small farm in western Oregon.
Students will receive careful and detailed review, critique, feedback, and grading from Dr. Ray on three written assignments. Students will also take one exam to show their understanding of basic research methods terms and concepts. Students who successfully complete the course receive a certificate of completion for this one-semester, research methods and writing, high school course.
Students who complete this course and are interested in completing the research project they design might be able to continue in a mentored project with Dr. Ray to execute their study.
Tuition is $795 and is due in full upon registration. Class size is limited – so students receive plenty of personal attention and feedback from Dr. Ray – so first come, first served. Late enrollments may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
The registration form explains details such as the beginning lecture date, possible payment arrangements, the tuition refund policy, forms of payment, the textbook to be used and its cost, and more.
Please call Dr. Ray’s office at 503-364-1490 or email Abbie at mail@nheri.org for a registration form or if you have any questions. Remember, space is limited.
Public Speaking Event arrives in NJ this March!
"Flood the Five" comes from the statistic that only 5% of Americans are ready and willing to command the public platform. The Institute for Cultural Communicators is committed to coaching Christian speakers to flood that 5%. This conference will provide Christian students of all ages with opportunities to develop skills through activities and training in three distinct areas: thinking, speaking and connecting with audiences.Sponsored by the local ICC Chapter, SayWhat?, this conference is for students ages 6 - 18 from home, private, and public school settings. Training for parents and coaches is complementary with a student registration.
Conference Date and Time: March 16th and 17th
Millington Baptist Church, Basking Ridge, NJ
FTF Conference Age Early Bird Price/Student (Ends 2/28) Standard Price/Student
Two-Day Applied 11+ $75 $90
Communications Training Conference
One – Day Beginning Public Speaking 6-10 $25 $25
Parents/Coaches Free with a paying student.
*After the first 40 students, registrants will be wait-listed pending space and available Student Leaders.
For more information contact: Eunice Au, eunice@iccinc.org, 732-937-8960
SAT-Winter/Spring Classes, Summer/Fall Math, Physics & Programming Classes!
SAT Math Prep Classes!And, Free SAT Math Prep Videos!
All classes are taught live by a fellow homeschooling Ph.D.
Prices are $40 registration fee + $40/month for summer and fall classes, and, $195 for SAT Math Prep classes.
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Here is the schedule of upcoming SAT Math Prep classes:
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SAT Math Prep: Jan 14 - Jan 21 Sat 10:30 - 12:30pm CST
SAT Math Prep: Feb 25 - Mar 3 Sat 10:30 - 12:30pm CST
SAT Math Prep: Apr 7 - Apr 14 Sat 10:30 - 12:30pm CST
SAT Math Prep: Apr 21 - Apr 28 Sat 10:30 - 12:30pm CST
SAT Math Prep: Private Class Varies By Appointment
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Here is the summer schedule:
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Summer Algebra 1 MF 10:30 - 11:20am CST
Summer Geometry MF 11:30 - 12:20pm CST
Summer Computer Programming MF 12:30 - 1:20pm CST
Summer Algebra 2 MF 2:00 - 2:50pm CST
Summer Precalculus MF 3:00 - 3:50pm CST
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Here is the fall schedule:
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Fall Algebra 1 MF 11:30 - 12:20pm CST
Fall Geometry MF 12:30 - 1:20pm CST
Fall Algebra 2 MF 2:00 - 2:50pm CST
Fall Precalculus MF 3:00 - 3:50pm CST
Fall AP Calculus AB TTh 10:30 - 11:20am CST
Fall Pre AP Physics MF 10:30 - 11:20am CST
Fall AP Physics B TTh 11:30 - 12:20pm CST
Fall Computer Programming TTh 12:30 - 1:20pm CST
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To access the videos that are part of the SAT Math Prep class for free, see the link at the top of this web page:
http://phil4.com/videos
You can also see the videos on You Tube with this link:
http://bit.ly/xtecUC
Please email Dr. Chris Seberino at info@phil4.com for more information or visit http://phil4.com .
Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area Morris County Park Commission
We hope to see you over the winter at one of the programs listed below, pre-registration is necessary. Be sure to check our website calendar too at – www.morrisparks.net.Sunday, February 5
Snowshoe Adventure: Moderate
Ages 8 & Up.
Enjoy an afternoon of snowshoes and trekking as we partner with REI of East Hanover. Snowshoes, basic instruction, and refreshments are included.
Time: 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Location: Pyramid Mtn.
Cost: $15 for ages 13 to adult/ $10 for ages 8-12
Tuesdays, January 31 - February 21
Nature’s Classroom Winter Session
Ages 6 - 8.
Learn about groundhogs, woodpeckers, ice & snow, and snowshoeing through indoor and outdoor activities, including a hike, during this four- week series of science education classes for home-schoolers.
Time: 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Pyramid Mtn.
Cost: $12 per class/ $45 for the series
Thursdays, February 2 - February 23
Nature’s Classroom Winter Session
Ages 9 - 12.
Learn about the night sky, plants and seeds, winter insects, and snowshoeing through indoor and outdoor activities, including a hike, during this four week series of science education classes for home-schoolers.
Time: 1 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Location: Pyramid Mtn.
Cost: $12 per class/ $45 for the series
Wednesday, February 15
Family Walk: The Snow Show!
All Ages!
Did you know that snow can keep you warm? Or that snow can make it easier for some animals to find food? Or that all snowflakes have six sides? Explore the wonders of the winter woods with a naturalist. Perfect for home-school families!
Time: 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Pyramid Mtn.
Cost: $2 per person age 3 and older
Wednesday, March 21
Family Walk: As the Earth Turns!
All Ages!
Welcome spring through exploration of the seasons and weather. A brief classroom discussion is followed by a woodland walk. Perfect for home-school families!
Time: 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Location: Pyramid Mtn.
Cost: $2 per person age 3 and older
See http://www.conservewildlifenj.org/getinvolved/volunteer/#2 for volunteer and citizen science projects with the Conserve Wildlife Foundation of NJ.
For more information you may contact:
Douglas Vorolieff
Senior Teacher Naturalist
Pyramid Mountain Natural Historic Area
Morris County Park Commission
973-334-3130
dvorolieff@morrisparks.net
www.morrisparks.net
The MasterWorks Festival
Who: The MasterWorks FestivalWhat: A 4 week Christian performing arts festival for students 14-26
When: June 17-July 15
Cost: $3070
Contact Information: email- mwfadministrator@christianperformingart.org. Website: www.masterworksfestival.org
About: MasterWorks is an intensive four-week festival for advanced and passionate students of music, dance, and theater. Each year 250 students from around the globe participate in this unique festival that combines artistic excellence and biblically sound teaching. Students and a faculty of 90 live and work on the campus of Grace College, in the quaint and picturesque community of Winona Lake, Indiana.
At MasterWorks, a wide variety of Christian backgrounds unite to glorify God in their art and grow deeply in their faith. Spiritual highlights include topical Bible studies for performers, faculty devotionals, and Sunday worship services. Prayer is an integral part of rehearsals, classes, and performances.
The Walnut Street Theatre
When we PLAY, learning happens! The Walnut Street Theatre would like you and your kids to join us in our delightful new production of Miss Nelson is Missing.As a child, my imagination took me to exciting new places outside this world! I encountered both new people and strange creatures - some nice, some wild, some helpful and some extraordinary. We all share these unforgettable childhood journeys that were inspired by the books we read at home and in school. Miss Nelson is Missing will send your students on an adventure they'll never forget as they go on a journey to find Miss Nelson and the pages of this book come to life LIVE on stage!
Miss Nelson is Missing
School Matinees at 10:30am on
Wednesday, March 28 · Friday, March 30 · Thursday, April 12 · Friday, April 13
Read the book, and then see the show! Based on the children's book Miss Nelson is Missing by Harry Allard, Full of music, laughter and excitement, this show takes reading to the next level with a live performance just under an hour making it suitable for grades K-5th.
There are countless ways to integrate Miss Nelson is Missing into your curriculum:
- PA Reading Assessment Anchors
- Extensive look at character development based on children's literature
- Building on simple stories and creating a complex plot; reading and interpreting literature
- Exploring the importance of appreciation and respect
The Walnut is proud to offer magical AND affordable theatre for kids and their grown-up friends! Treat your students to some great lessons in fun by visiting the Walnut! Special group rates, for as little as $10.50 per ticket, make this the perfect spring event! It's a great way to gather your group for a fun and educational adventure! Call Jan to can get the best seats for your students (215) 574-3550 x504!
For more information about the Walnut Street Theatre visit their website!
New York City Ballet
If you haven't ordered your Winter 12 or Spring 12 dates for some terrific ballet at discounted prices now is the time to pick a date and call soon (212-870-4213) to reserve your seating.Winter 12 and Spring 12 calendars are available upon request and have 44 dynamic ballets, at 10, 20 and 30% discounted dates. The Winter 12 season includes our new ballet "Ocean's Kingdom" by Peter Martins with Sir Paul McCartney, formerly of the Beatles, creating an orchestral score with libretto. His daughter, fashion designer Stella McCartney, created the costumes. This ballet is very popular so contact Linda soon if you want to attend this performance.
"See the Music" dates; January 24, February 18, May 2, and May 23 offer our orchestra pit raised to stage level and our conductor giving insights of one of the musical pieces and a short demonstration of the music behind the movement.
Repertory seasons, Winter and Spring, have add-on programs: Meet the Dancer, Meet the Musician and Dress Makes the Dance. These programs are very interesting and inexpensive and everyone is always happy with the experience.
Repertory pricing ranges from $116 to $20. 30% discounted dates are available, contact Linda for more information.
Please contact Linda Luongo at 212-870-4213( direct number ) or email lluongo@nycballet.com with any questions or your order and she will be happy to help you with everything.
For more information about the New York City Ballet visit their website!
The Printmaking Center of New Jersey
Would enjoy bringing you our award winning art programs.Offering one or multiple day art programs to schools, after care associations, Girl/Boy Scout Groups, homeschool groups, parent groups and summer camps.
For more than 38 years, the Printmaking Center of NJ (a fine arts nonprofit organization) has offered dynamic and high quality programs to thousands of children each year. Our Roving Press programs are offered in the following mediums:
Monotype, Collagraph, Drypoint, Lithography,Relief, Papermaking, Book Arts, Silkscreen, Photography, Alternative Methods, Gelatin Prints, Fish Printing, Marbling and Collage.
- Each lesson plan is based on your classrooms' individual needs and follows the New Jersey Core Curriculum.
- All Instructors at The Printmaking Center have been registered and fingerprinted with the NJ Department of Education.
- The Printmaking Center also offers Professional Development
classes for teachers.
For more information visit www.printnj.org
Contact us at: education@printnj.org or call us at (908)725-2110
Online Fencing Classes
Our Fencing program goes all over the United States. We teach through the internet and we can one student in a particular state up to 50 in groups. We specialize in beginning fencers. Most of our classes involve kids and we have the opportunity to reach out to a larger audience with the web. Your program just needs a computer with an optional camera set up (we can work with voice only also just as long as your students can see your coach). When we set up your class our coach will contact your students to size up your participants with jackets masks gloves and weapons. Our coach is in charge of mailing the fitted equipment to your facility for class use. You also have the choice of purchasing your own equipment.We are a staff of coaches and members of the United States Fencing Association (the people that run Olympic Fencing). Our main coach was trained for the Olympics by Cuban and Russian coaches; we are trained in the Russian style of Fencing. We just ask that if we are teaching kids under the age of 18 that there be adults present while the coach is instructing.
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Our class participants are in contact with our online coaches for support for proper use of the equipment and with a computer and camera we interact with our students (voice only is also acceptable). We teach online using the VZO, Skype, and the Moodle teaching software. We usually teach 6 lessons a hour long, once a week for six weeks. At $10 a lesson for each participant that equals out to $60 per participant. If you are using the option of free equipment for at least six participants we ask you to send out a deposit which we will return to you at the end of the session.
When you set up dates and times for your class the students / or Coach will contact the Instructor to arrange the weapons, assist with the sizing of equipment, and assist with mailing.
The class is done live for your program area. Students do need a computer. The coach can correct, and teach live within the space of an hour class time. We usually have a time period for questions and answers at the end of the teaching program. After six classes our program is over and they can just return the equipment for the class. We mail out certificates of completion when done. If you do a competition in your class, we can mail out the winner a real sword/trophy at no additional cost (depending on your numbers).
Our coaches are flexible and we can design our online program according to the times you request for your program. Contact Gerald *(information listed below) for availability of times.
Fencing
Fencing is a vigorous sport that requires and develops stamina, quick reactions, speed, accuracy of movement and excellent coordination. More than a game, fencing requires a mental attitude of self discipline
involving total manipulation of mind and body in perfect harmony. It utilizes natural body movement to create simple and effective self-protection techniques with the sword. Attacking, defense, timing
and intense tactics are all integrated into this beginning class. Whether you're fencing for a good work out, or gaining points for the Olympics fencing is fun for anyone. We provide everything needed to
fence (mask, jacket, glove, and weapon). The fencer need only to come dressed comfortably (for freedom of movement) including long sweat pants and running shoes.
Musketeers Fencing Classes available to ages 6-9
Children will learn real fencing skills while having fun in our special Musketeers Fencing Class!
Our new program introduces children to the fundamentals of fencing with the foil weapon. Our children's classes are performed in a non threatening environment. With an emphasis on skill building,
concentration, self discipline and fun. Classes are designed to enhance motor skill, social and perceptual growth by teaching safe, age appropriate foil fencing skills to each child.
Fencing can help children improve concentration and develop self-control through fun and organized activities that are developmentally correct.
For more information on these programs contact:
Gerald E. Benford Sr.
Coach and all around groovy guy..
Online Sword Play!
Teaching the fine art of Sword Play for more than 12 years!
Office Phone: (952) 435-6740 or email: Gbenford@prodigy.net
You can also visit the websites: http://www.livefencingcoach.com or http://www.angelfire.com/sports/swdply/
CHERRY HILL ROLLER SKATING
Come join us for 2 hours of fun, physical activity. Every third Friday there is roller skating for the home school community. The rink is open only for us. The games are turned off, the music is family friendly. Mom's get to socialize while kids skate with their friends. Come meet home schoolers from every area........open to all.Where: Cherry Hill Skate Center 664 Deer Road Cherry Hill
What: Private party 2 hours of skating with family friendly music
Who: Any home schooler please invite all put down your home school lists
When: 3rd Fridays (NOT December) from September-April 1-3PM
Cost: $3 per skater (non skaters do not pay) Max $12 per family (cash please!)
skate rental available for $3 from rink (last year's price) either quads or inline
You may bring your own skates
Please no outside refreshments as the snack bar is open. Consume your food before coming in.
Dates for 2011-2012 School year
September 16
October 21
November 18
January 20
February 17
March 16
April 20
PIANO LESSONS AT HOME
Focusing on the beginning and intermediate piano student.Private lessons in your home.
Over 25 Years Experience
For further information, please call Toni R. at 973-960-9797
Morris County Area.
PUBLICATION DATES
ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletter NEXT DEADLINE
Here are the deadlines for the upcoming ENOCH of NJ e-Newsletters. The deadlines are firm and coordinated so that we can get you a fresh newsletter by the first of each month. Thanks.March 2012: Friday, February 24th
April 2012: Sunday, March 25th
May 2012: Wednesday, April 25th
Send all submissions to newsletter@enochnj.org. This deadline serves the purpose of allowing time for editing and formatting the newsletter in order that time-sensitive information can be posted and mailed in a timely manner.
Final editing begins at the deadline. Submissions prior to the deadline are always welcome and encouraged.
Posting and emailing is normally by the 1st of the month (except for the June issue).
Thanks for your help in getting the newsletter delivered promptly.
SUBSCRIBE TO ENOCH'S e-NEWSLETTER
Why and How to SubscribeIf you are not already subscribed to this newsletter, you can subscribe now! If you would like the e-Newsletter delivered directly to your e-mailbox each month, go to Monthly Newsletter link on our website at www.enochnj.org.
Encourage your support group members to subscribe to the ENOCH email list! Include this portion of our newsletter in your monthly hardcopy newsletter. Get the word out that this newsletter is for them! We use our subscription list to notify the homeschooling community of changes to our website, of the Convention and our Leadership Conference, alerts, and other important news.
All submissions desiring consideration for publication in the e-Newsletter should be sent to newsletter@enochnj.org. Thanks.
ENOCH of NJ
Box 308
Atlantic Highlands NJ 07716
732.291.7800
office@enochnj.org
www.enochnj.org
Neither the ENOCH e-Newsletter, nor the Board of Directors for ENOCH New Jersey, endorses nor recommends any of the non-ENOCH programs, events, or opportunities listed. They are selectively provided as a service to those who wish to explore further. To remove your email from this mailing list, click here: http://www.enochnj.org/index.php?ACT=5&id=ZEbMxuzeJH