Magnolia Home Educators

June 20, 2009

2009-06-20T11:10:00.000-07:00

The FREE SPIRIT Newsletter is pleased and proud to be able to publish for the first time this article by Acadiana homeschooling mother 'L. ‘Ailina Laranang. She lives in Lafayette with her husband and five children. She is a member of Magnolia Home Educators homeschooling group and maintains a column, “Winds of Wonder,” in AcadianaMoms magazine. Contact 'Ailina at alaranang@gmail.com.

Crayons, Comic Strips, & Creative Writing

Through the course of my parent advisement sessions, a common complaint is, “My child is so imaginative but says she hates writing. She won’t do more than the minimum required for a passing grade!” I believe the root of the problem is, many children never learn to enjoy writing.

In homeschooling my own family, I discovered children "write" much earlier than they learn to construct words on paper. At three, my daughter, Maile, loved to color, and she loved to tell stories about the characters in her coloring book as she worked.

Maile was engaging in active composition, even if she wasn't committing her ideas to paper in sentences and paragraphs. She experimented with character development, plotting, and conflict in her own toddler way. I helped reinforce these ideas with guiding questions and comments: "Do you think Mackie will set aside his bullying ways and learn to be a friend?" "This is such a mystery! I wonder what will happen next!"

In time, Maile graduated from coloring books to creating her own drawings. Her elaborate scenes depicted children in sticky or surprising situations. She liked to include cartoon-style speech bubbles that contained nonsense scribblings representing words. When I asked her to explain her drawings, Maile narrated a story with a clear beginning, middle, and end; she’d successfully composed an early form of creative fiction. Again, I asked questions that allowed her to expound on the story unfolding in her head.

When Maile learned to write words and sentences, single-scene drawings no longer satisfied her need for expression. She moved on to produce comic strips with sequential scenes. Now, her speech bubbles contained "real" letters. Through a need for more tools of expression, she reached into the bag of punctuation marks and used them with enthusiasm!

By this point, Maile caught on to the use of dialogue, interrupted speech, and exclamations. She grew accustomed to creating unique characters with individual motivations, strengths, and quirks. She was acquainted with more complex conflicts (thanks to living with four siblings) and used different techniques, such as humor and suspense, to illustrate them. Finally, Maile learned how to end a story on a powerful note, whether it was the punch-line to a joke, or a neat-and-sweet happy ending. As we discussed her more sophisticated story form, I used important terms like, "plot," "climax," and "main character," laying the foundation for a wide literary vocabulary.

Now nine, Maile still enjoys drawing comics, but her love for storytelling has evolved. She doesn't always have to draw to satisfy her creative urges. In addition to writing on paper, she's also learned to type and compose in a word processing program.

When Maile envisions her original character drawings and visualizes her stories from scene to scene, she now translates her ideas straight to the page (or to the computer screen) in the form of true written narrative.

Maile may not have developed such a love for writing if she hadn't been encouraged in her artistic but "non-writing" pursuits. Many homeschooling parents may overlook the literary development taking place when their children color and draw.

Storytelling through art and sequential construction is a precursory form of creative writing. By asking guiding questions and drawing attention to subtle literary elements, parents reinforce the mental composition process. We do well to give our children the time and tools they ask for when they have an itch to put crayon and pencil to paper. Someday, that itch may turn into a real passion for writing.

_______________________________________________________________________

Art and science camps launched
The Acadiana Center for the Arts and the Lafayette Natural History Museum and Planetarium this week launched the first in a series of three weeklong summer art and science camps for children ages 6-12.
The camps combine art and science in a hands-on environment to explore engineering principles.
“The Art & Science of Mechanical Engineering” is scheduled to run from June 29 to July 3, and “The Art & Science of Electrical Engineering” is scheduled to run from July 27 to July 31.
Call (337) 233-7060.
______________________________________________________________________
I'm looking to borrow Abeka Algebra 2 books for a couple of weeks to look over it & make a decision before June 30th if this is the what I'd like to use for the coming year.

If anyone has Abeka Algebra 2 books that they'd be willing to loan out for a few weeks it would be a great blessing. We will buy whatever curriculum we decide on, so we're only looking to borrow them for a few weeks.

I can be contacted through email at m.neel@hotmail.com or 337-380-7112.
(from Monica Neel)
__________________________________________________________________
Reliable Teenager needed to work weekends at Youngsville barn. General horse care. If you are interested, please contact Kate at katecorkern@yahoo.com
_______________________________________________________________
The Lafayette Parish Public Library has loads of programs for children and teens in the summer. Below is a list from the Library's website. Please verify the event with the library and make sure that, if registration is required, you register.
MAY 29 –JULY 17, 2009 PRIZES
AWARDED IN EACH AGE CATEGORY
Kids can show off their natural talent by designing a bookmark using this year’s summer reading club theme, “Be Creative: READ!” Bookmarks will be judged on three criteria: design, originality, and theme. Bookmarks will be judged by age categories: 3– 5 years; 6 – 9 years; and 10 – 12 years. The word “Read” should be incorporated in the design. Kids may enter only once. A winner will be chosen from each libray location for each age category. Winners will have their entry posted on the library website. Entry forms are available at each library location.For further information, call the Children’s Department at 261-5779.

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

IT’S WHATEVA TWEEN BOOK CLUB
Tweens 9 - 12 years are invited to meet with others their age every two weeks during the summer to discuss books they have chosen to read. The Book Club will meet at the Main Branch at the times listed below.

Main Library downtown Browsing Room 12:00 – 1:30 PM on the following Tuesdays: June 30; July 14, 28
Preregistration begins on Monday, May 18. Call 261-5779 to preregister.

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

Book a Trip with Teddy
For ages 3 – 10
Teddy Bear Travels
June 2 – August 31
Teddy has packed his bag and is ready for boys and girls to check him out and take him on vacation. Children may check out one of the library’s traveling Teddies from any Lafayette Public Library location beginning Tuesday, June 2nd. Teddy can be checked out on a 14-day loan.

While on vacation, the child should take souvenir photos with Teddy, showing where he or she and Teddy have travelled. Once Teddy returns from vacation, the child should write a short note about the place(s)Teddy visited while on vacation and what the bear did.

There will be prizes awarded to the child who:
submits the best vacation photo with Teddy.
writes the best vacation adventure with Teddy.
mails the postcard from the farthest vacation spot.
Please Note: Remember to include the child’s name, address, and phone number on all entries. Winners will be notified by phone in September.

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

SUMMER FUN SCRAPBOOKING *
Make a record of your summer fun times by creating a colorful scrapbook. Preregistered participants are asked to bring photographs to use in making their personal summer scrapbook. Preregister your 7 - 12 year old by calling 261-5779 beginning Tuesday, May 26.

Main July 17 10:30

SWITCHPLATE FUN CRAFT
Brighten up your room with a handcrafted giraffe switchplate. Students 7 - 12 years will turn an ordinary switchplate into a work of art using craft sticks and paint. All materials will be supplied. Call (337) 261-5779 beginning Tuesday, July 7, to preregister.

Thursday, July 23 2:30 - 3:15 PM
Main Library downtown

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

OFFICIAL BOOK RELEASE AND SIGNING
As a child growing up in Southwestern Louisiana, Arthur “Roy” Williams heard many stories about the humorous Creole folktale characters “Bouki,” the tricky rabbit, and “Lapin,” the simple-minded donkey. Williams, a retired educator, will share his love of the Creole culture and its folktales during a reading and autograph session celebrating the official release of his book, Bouki’s Honey.

Bouki’s Honey, the first in a series of ten Creole folktales, has a rich and fascinating history, hundreds of years old. These folktales tales, originating from Senegal, Africa, were first recorded in the United States in 150-year-old cabins on the grounds of the Louisiana Creole Plantation, “Laura”. Bouki’s Honey includes words and phrases from the French Creole culture. A Zydeco band will be performing during the event. Books will be available for purchase. The program is open to persons of all ages.

Monday, June 22 10:30 am Meeting Room/Main Library downtown.

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

CARTOONING WORKSHOP WITH ROB GUILLORY
Rob Guillory brings his interactive art tutorial-style workshop to guide 9 - 12 year olds through the stages of producing comic art. Participants will also create their own comic character. Preregistration is required. Preregister at Main branch beginning Monday, June 8.

June 29 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM Main Library downtown 261-5779

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

ZOO ZOOM’S LITTLE TRAVELING ZOO ON WHEELS
The little zoo on wheels is more than just a petting zoo. Brett and Lori Matte will bring a collection of native as well as exotic animals to the Children’s Department at the Main Library downtown. The Mattes will educate young ones on how to interact with the different animals in their environments. Some of the animals they will bring include wallabies, snakes, guinea pigs, lizards, and more. Admission is free.

June 27 10:30 AM – 12:30 PM Children’s Pit Area/Main Library downtown

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

GET EXCITED ABOUT SCIENCE
Science Whiz Steve Belliveau delivers a fast paced science show that incorporates large props, music, humor, and audience participation. Recommended for ages five and up.

Thursday, July 9 10:30 - 11:15 AM 261-5779
Meeting Room/Main Library downtown

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

HARVEY RABBIT AND FRIENDS SHOW
Mr. Tim and Ms. Laura, a performing duo favorite engage the fun-loving large puppets Harvey Rabbit and his friends Cecil and TBoy with a mix of music, comedy, magic, ventriloquism, and audience participation. Don’t miss seeing one of two shows . Recommended for ages three and up.

Tuesday, July 28
Main Library 10:30 - 11:30 AM

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

MUSIC WITH FOX AND BRANCH
Dave Fox and Will Branch perform a crowd pleasing program of old blues, jug band songs, fiddle tunes, Cajun numbers, and New Orleans flavored jazz that is sure to please music lovers of all ages.

Thursday, July 30
10:30 - 11:30 AM Main Library downtown

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
*
TEENS, AGES 12-18, are invited to “Express Yourself” this summer at Lafayette Public Libraries. The “Express Yourself” Teen Reading Alliance offers a Fashion Illustration workshop, Wii Free Play, Photography course, 3-D Design Digital Art class, Website Design, and a Comic Book Workshop. The South Regional Library will host an All Day Anime as well as the Battle of the Wii Bands. From May 18th through July 31st, teens can join the Alliance and then read books of their choice, including comic books and manga or listen to audiobooks, to be eligible to win prizes in a weekly raffle. Teens can submit entry forms for every book read.

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

Photographing Your Life
Bring your digital camera or camera phone and learn how to take better photos of yourself, your friends and your life with Daily Advertiser multimedia editor Claudia Laws. Extra cameras will be on hand for those who cannot bring a camera. A photo consent form is required. Registration begins June 2.

June 23 1:00-3:00 PM Main Library, downtown

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

Cartooning Workshop
Rob Guillory, Lafayette artist and cartoonist will give insight into “breaking in” the design world, talk up the stages of the creative process, and answer questions on cartooning. Teens will get a chance to create their own cartoon character. Registration begins June 8.

June 29 2:00-3:30 PM Main Library, downtown

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

Digital Art
Teens will use GIMP imaging and freeware software similar to PhotoShop to manipulate photographs and other images. Computer graphics artists and interns with LITE will present this free workshop. A photo consent form is required. Registration begins June 2.

July 7 1:00-3:00 PM Main Library

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

All Day Anime at South Regional
Our mini-con offers hours of Anime, Japanese snacks, sushi making, art, and a cosplay contest with anime-related prizes. Co-hosted with the UL Lafayette Anime Club. Art contest entries due Monday, July 6.
Registration begins June 2.

Contest Registration Form

July 11 12:00-4:00 PM South Regional Library

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

Here is a link to the Library's calendar. From this page, you can access the programs available at any of the branches: http://www.lafayette.lib.la.us/evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp

December 29, 2008

2008-12-29T20:03:00.001-08:00

Amy Waguespack's acting classes will present their showcase Friday, January 23-Sunday, January 26, 2009. The show, "Opening Sequence" and "Something Old, Something New", will be held at the Acadiana Center for the Arts. The Friday and Saturday shows will start at 7:30 pm and the Sunday performance will be a matinee beginning at 2 pm. Tickets will go on sale after the holidays.
_______________________________________________________________________________
This was submitted by the Acadiana Arts Council: Bass and drums pound out the beat in perfect unison. Bodies spring to their feet and rush the stage; jumping, dancing and bouncing off each other like bumper cars. The concertgoers behave like children. Which is no surprise because they are children, participating in the kiddie mosh pit found at nearly every Justin Roberts concert. You will want to get your tickets now for his Lafayette performance on Wednesday, January 14th at 6:30 pm.

Justin Roberts is truly one of the “all-stars” of the indie family music scene. He logs thousands of miles on the road each year, leading some to call him the hardest working man in children¹s show business. With national awards and recognition and a devoted fan base, Justin and his wonderfully named bandmates“ The Not Ready for Naptime Players” dish out unexpectedly intelligent and whimsically rocking music for kids and their parents. Justin’s latest CD, Pop Fly , is filled with 11 high energy pop hits spanning topics from a dandelion watching ballplayer to a girl’s unusual hairstyle in which funky characters of all shapes and sizes take up residence. There are images of permission slips, first days, and grandmother’s home cooking. Gently plucked piano strings, vintage synthesizers, tender trombones, pounding drums, and giant electric guitars emerge on this journey through the pop flys and pratfalls of childhood. It’s yet another Justin Roberts home run filled with witty lyrics, sing-along choruses and touching insights. It continues a hot streak that started in the early 90s.

Justin Roberts and the Not Ready for Naptime Players will perform at Angelle Hall on the UL-Lafayette campus on Wednesday, January 14th at 6:30 pm. For tickets or more information, call the Acadiana Arts Council at (337) 233-7060.______________________________________________________________________________
Sheridan Productions has submitted their Spring 2009 schedule of classes:
Performing Arts Academy for the Home Schooled:
Spring 2009 Session begins Jan 12. The 12 week session ends April 9. Tuition begins at $10/hr and the rate decreases as your classload increases. There are also payment plans and great family discounts.
This is a unique Academy, offering a complete performing arts curriculum, no revue, created by and for Christian homeschoolers. This session's classes include:
Creative Movement for children ages 4-6 - a different kind of creative movement class, made for homeschooled kids and taught by a home-school mom with a college degree in dance and a life's degree in kids! It's all about creativity and exploring movement and music. Parents encouraged to observe.
Thursdays 3-4pm
Acting 2.1 - ages 10-17 - an intermediate level acting class exploring character development through monologue. Students use monologues from existing scripts and also create thier own monologue for character exploration. Class meets on Mondays 1-2pm.
Production 1.2 - ages 10-17 - students learn all the behind the scenes aspects of theatrical production including publicity, costuming, the structure of a theatrical company and the jobs of all the backstage crew. In this class, students will produce and direct a stage production to be performed by all the students of the Academy. Class meets on Thursdays 4-5pm
Dance - ages 9-17 - the Academy offers classical ballet, pointe and modern technique to students ages 9-17, beginners through advanced classes available. Call for complete schedule 896-1874
Boys ONLY! - an energetic, fun, beginning dance class for boys. Jazz, Hip-Hop and Creative Movement, taught without all the girlie stuff they hate about dance classes! Improve coordination, physical expression and creativity in this boys only dance class. Mondays 3:30-4:30
Sheridan Productions is run by Meghan Sheridan and is located at 316 Bechet Road in Carencro. Teachers include Meghan Sheridan and Shayna Falgout Broussard. Please call or email for more information. 896-1874 familysheridan@bellsouth.net
______________________________________________________________
My homeschool daughter is upgrading to a new piano and we are offering her student piano for sale. It is a nice maple spinet student piano. Recently tuned with all keys and pedals working. She has competed in The Louisiana Music Teachers Association Rally for the last 4 years and placed to go to State, as well as Festival and other fun piano opportunties with fellow students in Lafayette. We are asking $250.00 and live in Lafayette. Please ask for Christine at 268-4036. Thanks!!!)
__________________________________________________________________
The Lafayette Public Library is hosting a number of programs in the early part of 2009.
At the Main Branch (Congress St. in Lafayette): 261-5775
Movies:
January 14--The Cheetah Girls: One World
February 23--Beverly Hills Chihuahua
Pesentation:
Monday, January 12th at 6:30 pm in the Main Library's meeting room--Cajuns and Their Acadian Ancestors: A Young Reader's History by Shane Bernard. Meet Mr. Bernard, a professional historian specializing in recent US history, South Louisiana and Cajun culture in particular. Mr. Bernard is the historian and curator for McIlhenny ahd he will make a PowerPoint presentation about his latest book, a young reader's history of the Cajuns and their Acadian ancestors. Admisiion is free. No pre-registration needed.
At the North Regional Branch (Carencro): 896-6323
Movies:
January 10--Enchanted
February 7--Akeelah and the Bee
March 7--Dr. Seuss' Cat in the Hat
April 4--Artic Tale
Puppet Show:
January 28--White Rooster Makes Cookies
February 18--The Wolf and Granny's Lost Glasses
At all the Branches:
Storytimes, Toddler times, Craft programs. The Main Branch and the North Regional also host adult programs and discussion groups. For more information on these, call the 261-5775 (Main) or 896-6323 (North Regional)
________________________________________________________________
The Lafayette Public Library and the Magnolia Home Educators host a monthly homeschool meeting. In 2009, the first 2 meetings will be held on January 15 and February 26. All meetings begin at 2 pm and last until 3:30 pm.

The January meeting will give parents and students (above grade 6) the opportunity to learn about skills impovement using the Learining ExpressLibrary database. The presentation will cover the ACT and SAT prep courses and practice tests that are available through the library's database. For older and younger children (and their parents) there will be a presentation on Norway by a group member who recently traveled there.

The February meeting will feature Stacy Scarce of the Acadian Nature Station, who will talk about native Louisiana plants and animals, with suggestions for incorporating these subjects into curriculums with projects.

For more information, call 261-5779 (the Children's Department at the Public Library) or e-mail delennd@hotmail.com.
_____________________________________________________________
A representative for the Louisiana Office of State Financial Assistance will give an overview of financial aid forms, TOPS and FAFSA, with a particular focus on special rules and applications for homeschoolers on Tuesday, January 13 from 2:30 to 3:30 pm at the Main Branch of the Public Library. This meeting is very important for those parents who have children in high school--particularly for those in the last 3 years. For more information, call 261-5775.
____________________________________________________________________________

October 7, 2008

2008-10-07T07:24:00.000-07:00

Acadiana Symphony Orchestra presents “Picture This” - Works by Rachmaninoff and Mussorgsky. This event will present music of the two composers and will also present winning art from some of Acadiana’s most talented young artists. Take advantage of this FREE EVENT for all area schools and home schoolers.

Date: October 17, 2008

Time: 9:30 AM and 11:00 AM

Where: Heymann Performing Arts Center in Lafayette

To schedule for seating please call 337-232-4277 ext.201 or email conservatory@acadianasymphony.org

________________________________________________________________________________________

Dear Home School Families,

My name is Jill Griffin , Curator for the Louisiana State Museum – Patterson. I would like to invite you to our Home School Daythat has been rescheduled for October 16, 2008 due to Hurricane Gustav and Ike. We would like to give you an opportunity to view our changing exhibit gallery which is currently the home of works by world renowned artist George Rodrigue. Rodrigue: Cajuns and Blue Dogs Paintings from Louisiana Family Collections 1971-2008 exhibit features work spanning across thirty years of the artist’s distinguished career. Included in this exhibition are select “Cajun” works from the Begneaud Family Collection, theSaga of the Acadians series from the Gauthier family collection, and “Blue Dogs” from the private collection of George and Wendy Rodrigue.

Attached is a teacher’s guide that offers background information on George Rodrigue and his works as well as pre and post museum lesson plans to supplement your museum visit. We will also be offering a special scavenger hunt for the Rodrigue exhibit. This exhibit provides a great visual opportunity to teach about Cajun heritage. Please do not miss out on this wonderful opportunity

We would also like to give you the opportunity to view our two permanent galleries, the newly renovated Wedell-Williams Aviation Gallery and the Cypress Sawmill Gallery. Please see the information below describing each of the current exhibits.

We will be having a special presentation with educational activities for the George Rodrigue exhibit at 10:00AM. The Home School Day will be free of charge. Feel free to visit anytime that day between 9:00AM and 4:00PM. RSVP requested. Please either call the museum at 985-399-1268 or email us at jgriffin@crt.state.la.us to sign-up. Please specify on if you will be attending the 10:00AM program.

Thanks,

Jill Griffin
Curator
Louisiana State Museum
Wedell-Williams Aviation Museum
Cypress Sawmill Museum
(985) 399-1268
(985) 399-1270
(985) 399-9910 fax
jgriffin@crt.state.la.us
http://lsm.crt.state.la.us

We are proud to announce that the newly remodeled Wedell-Williams Aviation Exhibit is now open. Our facility is also home to the Cypress Sawmill Collection and a Changing Exhibit Gallery which currently features the George Rodrigue exhibit Rodrigue: Cajuns and Blue Dogs Paintings from Louisiana Family Collections 1971-2008.

The newly renovated Aviation Exhibit features state-of-the-art displays including numerous aircraft, 1930’s air race trophies and memorabilia, and an exciting new air racing film. The Aviation Exhibit also has a children’s interactive gallery that is still under renovation but will open later in the summer. An educational guide can be provided for those interested in incorporating materials that will reinforce what their children learn at the museum. I will be happy to provide an outline of these materials to you prior to your visit.

The Cypress Sawmill Exhibit focuses on the once thriving business of the cypress lumbering industry located in St. Mary Parish. In conjunction with the guided tour of this exhibit, the museum offers a scavenger hunt that can be adapted to many different age levels.

The museum also has a changing exhibit gallery that features a variety of exhibits throughout the year. Currently our changing exhibit gallery is the temporary home of works by world renowned artist George Rodrigue. This exhibit will also have interactive activities available to enhance the children’s learning experience. Please find information about the Rodrigue exhibit attached.

Second Saturday children’s programs are also offered at the museum. These are held on the second Saturday of each month to teach children about the rich heritage of Louisiana . Please find information about the Second Saturday Programs attached. I am willing to adapt any of these programs to meet your needs.
______________________________________________________________________________

Teacher of French and Spanish

My name is Danielle Grey and I am a grad student at UL Lafayette. I am interested in offering classes and tutoring to home schoolers interested in foreign languages. I have taught at many different levels from 5 year olds to adults.

The set up of the classes or private tutoring can be arranged to meet your specific needs. I will be attending the upcoming information meeting at the library and can offer more information to those interested.

Please feel free to contact me at (337)255-8000 or send me an email at deg0117@louisiana.edu.

_____________________________________________________________________

Field Trips to Stonewood Plantation for Home Schooled Children

At the request of friends who are parents of home-schooled children,
Jim Phillips and Christy Leichty are offering an organized series of
field trips for children ages 3-10 at their home, Stonewood
Plantation. Situated on 5 acres between Sunset and Opelousas,
Stonewood Plantation is in a beautiful, rural setting, surrounded by
working farms and offering opportunities for home schooled children to
engage in gardening, arts and crafts, music and dance, theater and
film, food preparation and healthy outdoor exercise activities. The
goal of this field trip series is to encourage development of solid
social/emotional skills for children in a dynamic, multi-age group
environment and through fun, hands-on activities.

The field trip series takes place Wednesdays from 9am to 1pm,
beginning October 15th and ending November 19th. We can accommodate
10+ children. Cost is $300 for the 6-week series; daily lunch is
included.

Our daily routine consists of large and small group activities and a
mix of creative projects and free time to encourage positive social
and emotional growth. Our schedule is flexible and will change to
accommodate the specific needs and interests of the children.

Approximate schedule (flexible and adaptable):

9:00 – 9:25 Meet and Play
9:30 – 10:00 Large Group Circle (songs, movement, storytelling,
theater, puppets, intro to activities, weather and measurements)
10:00 – 10:15 Small Groups (age-appropriate peer group activities)
10:20 – 11:30 Project Time/Free Choice/Art (gardening, nature studies,
arts, crafts, theater, film, activity stations, imaginary play,
outdoor play, special guest appearances—artists, musicians,
naturalists, etc.)
11:35 – 12:40 Lunch Prep/Eat/Clean- up (home schoolers will be involved
in the preparation, serving, eating, and clean-up of lunch together)
0A 12:45 – 1:00 Closing Circle (songs, movement, cultural celebrations)

To sign up or for more information, please contact us:
(337) 290-1601 or (337) 290-1549, email christyleichty@ gmail.com.

Who We Are:

Jim Phillips
Jim has been an innovative leader in education for over 34 years. As
creator and CEO of Neighborhood Montessori Schools, Inc., in San
Mateo, California he developed Infant-Parent, Toddler, Preschool,
Kindergarten, Parent Education, and Computer Learning programs. Jim
was co-founder of The Gourmet Language School, an imaginative and
highly successful foreign language program for children. Involved in
teacher training for 25 years, Jim has also taught at the graduate and
at the undergraduate level. Jim promotes education for all ages in all
his professional endeavors. For references/recommen dations, please see
Jim's LinkedIn profile: http://www.linkedin .com/pub/ 2/202/27b

Christy Leichty
Christy has worked as a teacher and school administrator since 1997.
At Neighborhood Montessori Schools in San Mateo, California, she wore
many hats, including: Pre-School and Kindergarten teacher, Head
Gardener, School Chef, Maintenance Person, and Assistant Director.
Christy is a talented educator, and also trained Neighborhood
Montessori teachers for the Toddler and Pre-School programs and worked
with children up to age 10 years in the Summer programs. Christy has
developed curriculum for in-house field trips and parent education
workshops. Her passion for early childhood education is apparent in
her relationships with children, teachers, and parents.

Johanna Divine
Johanna is assisting Jim and Christy with program development at
Stonewood. She has worked as an outdoor educator and administrative
assistant since 1992. She worked at Tremont Outdoor Education Center
and as an Instructor for the National Outdoor Leadership School in
Alaska and Mexico. She has developed two school gardens in Alaska and
Arizona and wrote and directed the film Young Agrarians, focused on
involving young people in agriculture.

--
Jim Phillips
337 290-1601

Work like you don't need the money.
Love like you've never been hurt.
Dance like nobody's watching.
Sing like nobody's listening.
Live like it's Heaven on Earth.
____________________________________________________________________________________

I'm Angela Averitt, the Glavez Chapter NSDAR chairperson for the American History Essays contests sponsored by the Daughters of the American Revolution. Christy LaFleur gave me your e-mail information to let you know of our chapter's American History contest. Our chapter encompasses two (2) parishes all school age children in these parishes are eligible to participate in these contests they are: Lafayette and Vermilion. There are two (2) contests- 1- American History Contest is for grades 5,6, 7, and 8; 2-Christopher Columbus Contest for 9,10,11, and 12th graders.

All participants will be given certificates of participation, winners will be awarded medals and a $100.00 savings bond. Each grade level will have a winner. The essays in the past have been judged by ULL's History Honor Society.

Deadlines for contests are as follows: American History-December 5, 2008
Christopher Columbus- December 15,2008

My phone number is 981-3396, Address is 160 Clark Court, Lafayette, LA 70503
National Society Daughters of the American Revolution

AMERICAN HISTORY ESSAY CONTEST 2008–2009

(This information is for chapter and school use)

TOPIC: 2008–2009 topic is: “What message did the Gettysburg Address communicate to our wartorn

nation in 1863? How are the ideals articulated in the speech still relevant for our

country today?”

PARTICIPANTS: All grade 5, 6, 7, and 8 students in a public, private, or parochial school, or those who are

home schoolers, are eligible. This contest is conducted without regard to race, religion, sex, or

national origin. DO NOT SUBMIT A STUDENT PHOTOGRAPH WITH ENTRY.

LENGTH: Grade 5: 300 - 600 words Grades 6, 7, and 8: 600 - 1,000 words (See Judge’s Guidelines)

FORM: Essay is to be handwritten in black ink, typed, or prepared on a computer or word processor, using

black type in a non-script font no smaller than 12 point or larger than 14 point. A limited vision

student may use Braille, a tape recorder, or very large type. A written transcript must be included,

as well as a teacher’s or physician’s letter attesting to the student’s special need.

All of the essay must be the student’s original work.

Each essay must have a title page listing the following:

Title or topic of essay: “The Ideals of the Gettysburg Address”

(A subtitle is permitted if written below the topic.)

Contestant’s full name and address. (Street, RR, PO Box, City, State, Zip Code) N ot e : If the

school’s regulations prohibit providing the student contact information, then school contact

information may be substituted.

Contestant’s telephone number (with area code) and e-mail address, if available

Name of contestant’s school with grade level indicated

Name of sponsoring DAR chapter

Number of words in essay

BIBLIOGRAPHY: Essay must have a bibliography listing all references utilized. Internet resources, if used,

should be cited in similar format to that used for printed resources. Add the electronic

address used to access the document as supplementary information.

Any essay with information copied directly from sources without using quotes will be disqualified.

JUDGING AND

AWARDS:

Judging will be based on historical accuracy, adherence to topic, organization of material,

interest, originality, spelling, grammar, punctuation, and neatness. Pictures, maps,

drawings, graphics, and other such additions will not be considered in judging and should

not be included.

Judging at the chapter level is by three judges, including at least one non-DAR judge.

Judging at other levels is by three judges, all of whom are non-DAR members.

CHAPTER: One essay at each grade level is selected as the chapter winner and forwarded to the

state American History chairman for state competition. American History essay contest chapter

winner certificates and bronze medals may be presented by the chapter if desired. In addition,

chapters may present certificates of participation to every student who participates in the essay

contest. These supplies are available from The DAR Store.

STATE: One essay at each grade level is selected as the state winner and forwarded to the

appropriate national division vice chairman of American History for division competition. The state

winner receives a silver medal and state winner certificate.

DIVISION: One essay in each grade is selected as the division winner and forwarded for national

competition to the national vice chairman. Division winners are presented a division winner

certificate.

NATIONAL: One essay in each grade is selected as the national winner. A certificate, gold pin and

monetary award is presented to each national winner at Continental Congress in July 2008.

Winning essays may appear in official DAR communications.

Note: All essays must first be submitted to a local chapter. Essays sent directly to the national

chairman or vice chairman of the essay contest will not be considered.

DEADLINE: Chapter Chairmen should determine date for students/schools to forward essays to them to allow

for judging to be completed prior to state deadline. States with district level judging should set

appropriate intermediate deadlines. Date Assigned:

NAME AND PHONE NUMBER OF CHAPTER CONTACT PERSON ______________________________________

NAME OF SPONSORING DAR CHAPTER _____________________________________________________________

If additional information about the contest is needed, please contact the Office of the Historian General, NSDAR, at

1776 D Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20006-5303 Phone: (202) 879-3256

Document No. AHC-1000 (Revised April 2008) (0408-3500-PS)

National Information Packet 2008–2009 · PART III—Page 2

____________________________________________________________________________

Here's a quote by Plato:

"Do not train children to learning by force and harshness, but direct them to it by what amuses their minds, so that you may be better able to discover with accuracy the peculiar bent of the genius of each."

September 22, 2008

2008-09-22T15:27:00.001-07:00

Elisa Monte Dance opens the PASA Series at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday October 11 with the world premier of Elisa Monte's latest choreographic work, Zydeco! Monte's spirited choreography, set to the vibrant beats of live music by Jeffery Broussard and the Creole Cowboys, in a unique marriage of modern dance and live music. The program also includes Monte's Pigs and Fishes--commissioned by Alvin Ailey for his legendary troupe--and Run to the Rock, set to Nina Simone's interpretation of the popular gospel song, "Sinnerman".

Pasa and Elisa Monte Dance will also present a performance for students at 10:30 am on October 9th at Angelle Hall on the UL campus.
For more information, or to purchase tickets, please contact PASA at (337) 237-2787
___________________________________________________________
Jill's Cooking with Kids
Presented by Jill Hyde
Enriching Children's Education
Boys and Girls ages 6 -16

Dear Parents:

I offer cooking classes in my home, for boys and girls ages 6 and up. I started Jill's Cooking with Kids in July of 2007 and teach a variety of beginner and advanced classes, beginning with the basics of cooking. Simply through parents networking and "word of mouth" advertising, I have had over 150 children to attend. I am now extending my classes to Home School Parents to be made a part of your child's educational enrichment program. I have attached the general information brochure about my cooking school. You can also visit my website for student photos and comments as well as sample class agendas. Please visit: www.jillscookingwit hkids.com

My regular classes are 2 1/2 hours each, but for scheduling and cost purposes, they can be modified to meet the time frames of your needs. I am flexible and can work with your schedules. I require a minimum of six students per class, but have a maximum of eight students in order to insure individualized attention to all students. I offer a discount to home school parents when there are at least two groups (or 15 students) that register for three or more classes. (Sorry, no additional discount for two or more siblings.)

You may choose a variety of individual classes or weekly sessions. I still have openings in September and classes may also be scheduled in October. I can work with your group as a whole, or with the individual families that are interested. In addition to the children's scholastic and spiritual education, I know you will find the cooking classes to provide valuable lessons and skills they can use throughout their life. Since many programs do not offer home economics, the cooking classes are a great addition to a childʼs education, even at the age of six.

My summer classes were for ages 6 to 12, but after several requests, I have extended the age to high school students also. All too often children find themselves needing to know how to prepare meals for the family. The cooking classes train them with the basic knowledge and skills needed to have fun and survive in the kitchen. My main mission is to make sure all students feel successful and have pride in their accomplishments.

About me: My husband Jeff, and two sons have lived in Broussard for 11 years. I have been associated with Katharine Drexel Elementary since that time, and have been a reading tutor at the school for the past seven years. I decided not to return to school, but will continue to tutor from my home and will expand my cooking classes. I have a Business Degree with a Teacher's Certification. After visiting my website, additional references are available.
___________________________________________________________________

The HOME SCHOOL COTTAGE
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS! FREE!!!
Please call the Home School Cottage Broussard (337.330.2356) to reserve.

Saturday, October 25th 10a.m.
Organizing Workshop
Where do I put all this stuff and who is going to keep it clean?
by Gail Lloyd
Gail has been a dear friend of Kelda's since high school.
What a blessing to have such a good friend... and fellow struggler with the clutter... come and speak to us with wisdom and experience.

Thursday, November 6th 1p.m.
Parent Writing Advisement Session: Creative Writing
by 'Ailina Laranang
For parents of children all ages
Reading /Writing poetry, short stories, personal essays, other forms
Writing process: analyzing other authors' works, choosing a topic, planning, drafting, revision
Finding inspiration
Handling problem areas (poor grammar/spelling, weak structure, writer's block)
Publishing/Contest opportunities
Opportunities/ Direction for advanced writers
Resources
Q&A

Saturday, November 8th 10a.m.
Why some children learn differently and what we can do about it.
by Shannon Fruge, MCD, CCC-SLP of Brainworks
Normal speech and language development
Learning Differences
Different approaches to learning problems and more...
Check out her website at BrainworksofLafayet te.com

Thursday, December 4th 1p.m.
Parent Writing Advisement session: The 5-Paragraph Essay
by 'Ailina Laranang
For parents of children who are writing independently (around junior high/high school level)
Writing process: choosing a topic, planning & research, organizing & outlining, drafting, revision, formatting
Handbook problem areas (poor grammar/spelling, weak organization, writer's block)
Publishing/Contest opportunities
Opportunities/ Direction for advanced writers
Resources
Q&A

ART CLASSES INFORMATION

Friday, October 3rd, 1-3 p.m.
Cave Paintings and Primitive Clay Art with Kate Corkern
Ages 10 and up. $20; all supplies included. Call 330.2356 to reserve.

Saturday, October 4th, 10 a.m.
Holiday Fun Craft with Mary Greer
Ages 6 and up. $20; all supplies included.
The children will be making and taking home simple craft projects for Halloween, Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Call 330.2356 to reserve.

Accepting consignments during our regular business hours: Tuesday-Friday, 1-4:30pm

10% off all Art Supplies in October.
10% off all new toys, puzzles and games in November.
________________________________________________________

September 10th, 2008

2008-09-10T19:55:00.000-07:00

Hello All! 4H Time!
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS! The turn out at the pre-registration meeting was a big success. Thanks to all who came out to get this important task taken care of. New members, we look forward to meeting you!
Location for Meetings:

A104 at First Baptist Church (the same place where the pre-registration was held) Here is Carla's cell phone number in case you need help finding the room...230-2656.

This new location gives us a space for those with younger children to romp a bit if needed. Feel free at any time to use this room. A108
Contacting Carla for Information:
IF for any reason a parent can not be in the meeting and needs to get information Carla can be reached on her cell phone. Carla is scheduled to be off of work on Thursdays until Christmas time. So, for this semester, Thursday is the best day to reach her to discuss 4H. However, feel free to call her on other days if you need to and she will be happy to help you the best she can. Those of us who know Carla also knows she is a great 4H Leader and will do her very best to serve you. Meeting Date / Day and Time:

This Thursday, September 11th, 9:30. Try to be there on time or early if possible as we have a lot to cover.

Have a Great Learning Day and see you all at the meeting!!

Blessings,
Mary Falgout

____________________________________________________________________

Wanted to buy or borrow: Please contact Ida Grissom at igrissom@centurytel.net.

Christian Heroes: Then & Now Series
Janet & Geoff Benge

The Sowers Series Biographies
soft cover by Mott Media

Leaders in Action Series
Edited by George Grant, Ph.D.

Heroes for Young Readers
Renee Taft Meloche

White Devil: The Life and Legend of Hudson Taylor
Tien Dao

Voices Against Injustice: Ten Christians Who Spoke Out
Catherine House

Lost on a Mountain in Maine
Donn Fendler with Joseph B. Egan

Not Too Small at All: A Mouse Tale
Stephanie Z. Townsend

Unwrapping the Pharaohs: How Egyptian Archaeology Confirms the Biblical Timeline
Book & DVD John Ashton & David Down

Big Thoughts for Little Thinkers (4 Books)
Joey Allen

Noah's Ark: Thinking Outside the Box
Tim Lovett

Biblical Creationism: What Each Book of the Bible Teaches About Creation and the Flooe Henry Morris

The Beginning of the World
Dr. Morris

Men of Science, Men of God
Henry Morris

God and the Nations: What the Bible has to Say about Civilizations
Henry Morris

In Six Days: Why Fifty Scientist Choose to Believe in Creation
Edited by John F. Ashton, Ph.D.

Wonders of Creation Series
by various authors

Acting Classes

2008-08-27T15:44:00.000-07:00

The Youth Acting Classes will begin on Monday, September 8 at 3 PM at Cite Des Arts (located at 3rd and Vine). Cost will be $45.00 per month with a discount for two or more students. Fees are due the first Monday of each month and cannot be prorated for missed classes. Cash or checks made out to Walter Brown.

We will divide the classes into a children's class (basically 6-12) and a teen class (basically 13-18). We will also offer an adult class for 19 and older.

Depending on the student's level of maturity, there may be some latitude in the age categories--the main thing is to keep appropriate levels of maturity and concentration in each class.

Students should wear comfortable clothing and be prepared to sit or lie on the floor--I suggest pants or leggings for the girls. Students should also bring notebooks and pencils and may be required to purchase scripts or books of monologues. These will not be expensive, I promise--but reproducing all the materials is expensive for me.

If you have any questions, email me at wfj5552@cs.com or call at 235-6284. I will answer within 24 hours.

Walter

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-26T08:42:00.000-07:00

CUB SCOUT ROUND-UP
Pack 455 in the Brousard Area is having it's annual round-up for boys who are interested in scouting.
Cub Scouts begins with 1st grade boys and the rank of Tiger and continues through 5th grade and the rank of Webelos 2.
St. Cecilia Gym, Main Street in Broussard, 6:30pm Wednesday, August 27th
Or if you have any other questions or live in another area of town, contact the scout office on College Street in Lafayette 235-8551.
________________________________________________________________
The homeschool 4H clubs are getting underway for the school year:
Enrollment TIME:
-First Baptist Church room A104 ( new construction, downstairs, door is marked with room number)
-Thursday August 28th
-Carla will be in this room from 10:30 to 12:00 She will leave promptly at 12:00.
-You may call Carla on her cell if you need help locating the room: 230-2656
-Project books will be there for us all to view so we can choose the one we want to work on this year.
-Enrollment cards will be there to fill out. If you know which book you want AND want to pay your dues this can be done at this time. IF you need to pay your dues at the meeting in September this is fine as well.
-Dues are $10 per child for the year.
*Note: This is NOT an regular meeting. This is only a time to enroll.

First 4H Meeting to be held on Thursday September 11th:
-Our 4H meetings will be held at First Baptist Church this school year. At this time we are unsure of the room our meetings will be held in. As soon as we get confirmation on this matter we will send out an email to inform you of the new location.

Let's get into motion for a great 4H year! Get to the enrollment meeting to choose a project book and pay dues (if you can at this time).

Blessings,
Mary Falgout
_________________________________________________________________________
I will be facilitating art classes again this year for ages 8 and up,
using Atelier, a video-based visual arts program designed specifically
for homeschoolers. Atelier is based on the teaching of art elements
and principles, including line, color, shape, form, texture, and
pattern, as well as art history, media exploration, creative
self-expression, cultural appreciation, and much more. Two semesters
are offered each school year. Fall classes will begin in late
September and continue weekly for seven or eight 2 hour lessons.
Class dates and times to be determined. The cost is $70.00, which
includes the cost of all supplies and materials for the semester.
Multi-child discounts also apply. Please contact me if you are
interested in enrolling your child(ren) or learning more.
Patricia Townsdin
pattownsdin@cox.net
237-6322 or 319-9553
______________________________________________________________________
The Lafayette Public Library has a number of fall programs for the teenagers:
Tuesday, September 2: Novel T Club (5:15-6:15). Join other teens who enjoy reading and talking about books
Tuesday, September 9: Board Game Challenge (4:15-5:15) Chess, checkers, dominoes, and other popular board games will be available for this afternoon challenge. Snacks will be served.
Tuesday, September 16: Podcasting (4:15-6:15) Teens will team up with other teens and ACFM to make their very own podcasts. A podcast is an audio show located on a website that is made available for download. Examples of what can be made into a podcast are interviews, tutorials, book talks, and rants. Call 261-5787 to preregister beginning Tuesday, September 2nd.
Thursday, September 18: ACT Prep (6:30-7:30) Students are invited to get ready for the ACT with free online ACT practice tests through the library database, LearningExpressLibrary. The staff will guide teens through all that this database has to offer teens preparing to take the ACT. Preregistration begins Tuesday, September 2nd. Call 261-5787 to preregister.
Tuesday, September 23: Animanga Club (4:15-5:45) Teens will watch clips from new Anime and discuss Manga favorites.
All Programs listed will take place at the main branch of the Lafayette Public Library. For more information, e-mail awander@state.lib.la.us or call
261-5787.____________________________________________________________

Tuesday, September 30 (4:00 pm):
The Little Mermaid: Ariel's Beginning
Rated G
For ages 3 and up Long ago in a kingdom where music is outlawed, King Triton’s youngest daughter Ariel discovers her love for music in a secret underground music club. Torn with the choice of whether to hide her passion or share it with her father, Ariel sets off on a daring adventure to restore music to Atlantica.

Wednesday, October 15 (4:00 pm - 6:15 pm)
Speed Racer
Rated PG
For ages 3 and up
Speed Racer is the adventures of a young racer car driver, his fabulous car, Mach 5, and his close-knit group of family and friends. This film has become a classic and one of the most popular “Japanimated” series to hit the U. S.
__________________________________________________________________

For Homeschool Families
Sessions held on designated Tuesdays
from 2:00 pm - 3:30 pm
Children's Department of the
Lafayette Public Library Main Branch
For more information, call 261-5779.

Meet and Greet for Homeschoolers Homeschool - families and those who want to know more about it are invited to a networking afternoon in the Children’s Department. Veteran home educators will answer questions and provide information about how to successfully homeschool. Tuesday, September 16 2:00 – 3:30 PM, Main Library, Children’s Department.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Homeschooling Styles and Curriculum : Home educators will present the different homeschooling styles and will also address choosing a curriculum for homeschooling. Tuesday, October 21 2:00 – 3:30 PM, Main Library, Children’s Department
_____________________________________________________________________________
Don't forget the Friends of the Library book sale. The preview night (for members of the Friends of the Library) opens at 6 pm on Wednesday,September 10th and the public sale opens the next day at 10:30 am and continues through Saturday, September 13th.
________________________________________________________________________
This link will take you to the Event Calendar for the Lafayette Parish Public Library, which lists events
at all of the branches: http://www.lafayette.lib.la.us/evanced/lib/eventcalendar.asp
________________________________________________________________________________________

FREE! 1 pair of boys lightweight dress slacks in charcoal grey. Size 10 slim, w/o cuffs. 85% polyester, 15% wool. Tag says "Dry clean only," but it's been in & out of our washer & dryer a few times and still looks very good. Please call Lisa and leave a clear message (include your 1st name, phone # and item(s) interested in) any day of the week between 2 pm and 5 pm: 232-7484.

FREE! 1 pair of boys swim trunks in very good condition. Size XS. Lime green w/ some Hawaiian flowers on the sides; it comes with a FREE matching short-sleeved polo top, also size XS. 232-7484.

FREE! 1 pair of boys Levi blue jeans in size 7 Regular. Looks new. 232-7484.

For Sale: 1 pair of black/white suede Puma running shoes (w/o cleats). Size 3.5, in good condition. $2 232-7484.

For Sale: 1 pair boys dark brown suede Puma running shoes (w/o cleats). Size 5, in great condition. Paid $45+. Son outgrew these in no time. :( $3 232-7484.

For Sale: 1 outdoor garbage cart. Welded metal, it holds 2 large trash cans, 32 gallons each. One front wheel is missing. $4 You'll probably need a truck to haul it home. 232-7484. Cans not included.

For Sale: 1 orange U.S. Coast Guard Approved Life Vest in the original package w/ instruction booklet included. Child size: Small (30-50 lbs.). $5 232-7484.

For Sale: 1 "Soft Bed Side Rail" in like-new condition. "Gerry" is the brand name. It has the original written care instructions in a side pocket. Bright teal green border w/ white mesh fabric inside. Paid $20. Selling for $6 232-7484.

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-22T19:15:00.000-07:00

The teen class to be taught by Walter Brown at Cite Des Arts beginning on September 8th will begin at 3 pm and run until 4:30 p. The class for younger children will be held immediately before the teen class, but the starting time has not been set.

The adult class, also to be held at Cite Des Arts, will begin at 6:30 pm and end at 8:00 pm.

For more information, or to register for the classes, contact Walter Brown by phone at 235-6284 or by e-mail at wfj5552@cs.com.

__________________________________________________________________________________
Mary M. Lobdell, PhD, CCC-SLP
Speech ~ Language and Literacy ~ Voice
612 Girard Park Dr.
Lafayette, LA 70503
337.232.0410

Lobdell Speech and Language Services offers speech and language evaluation and therapy for children and adults as well as intervention that treats literacy (reading and writing) problems. An initial evaluation identifies both strengths and weaknesses to ensure that the treatment focuses on what is “right” with the client and not simply what is “wrong”. Treatment programs also include family education in strategies that can be used to promote improved communication and literacy skills outside of the therapeutic setting. Published treatment programs that aim to teach pre-determined sequences of skills are not used since they do not address individual needs and differences.

Dr. Lobdell has extensive experience working with clients who have articulation, fluency/stuttering and voice problems, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder and other pervasive developmental disorders, auditory processing problems, attentional and behavioral concerns related to language, learning/academic difficulties, including dyslexia as well as speech and language problems as a result of stroke or other brain injuries, and dementia. She also works with clients on accent reduction/diversification and with singers and other professional voice users who have voice problems or are seeking to build vocal strength and efficiency.

Mary Lobdell received a PhD in Communication Disorders from the University of Louisiana in 2006. Areas of focus included language and literacy, educational reform and voice. She has 31 years of professional experience - 23 years in the Lafayette Parish School System as a speech-language pathologist and 8 years in private practice working with children and adults who have speech, language and literacy difficulties. She has presented professional workshops on language, literacy, and voice in Louisiana and across Texas. She has a Type A teaching certificate, national certification (Certificate of Clinical Competence) through the American Speech, Language, and Hearing Association, and is licensed by the Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech Pathology and Audiology to practice Speech-Language Pathology. Additionally, Dr. Lobdell has been a homeschooling parent since February, 2001.

The company’s mission is to work for a more humane and compassionate world in which everyone has a place and a contribution to make. This is achieved by (a) providing individualized intervention for speech, language, and literacy concerns to the client in a caring and positive learning environment, (b) empowering families to become informed partners in the remediation/rehabilitation process and (c) sharing information with others, including speech-language pathologists and teachers, as well as parents and care-givers regarding language and its relationship to learning and education.

________________________________________________________________________________

The Homeschool Bowling League (2 Kool for School) will begin at a registration party at Acadiana Lanes on September 6th from 9 am to 11 am. Registration for the league is $11.00 and there is a fee for each week of bowling. The League bowling will begin on September 10th at 1 pm. For more information, call Acadiana Lanes at 981-4034.

_____________________________________________________________________________________

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
337-232-0789
501 Fisher Road
Lafayette, Louisiana 70508

From Culture to Cultured
Lafayette: The Museum City

The National Park Service cares for special places saved by the American People so that all may experience our heritage!

EXPERIENCE YOUR AMERICA

We will soon have a form on our web site for making reservations and for defining offerings available to schools (both home and public/private) however until then let me tell you what we have to offer: We would be extremely happy to work with
home schoolers on other ideas as well. We have a museum with artifacts and exhibits as well as a book store with books, children's toys and craft items. (Most offerings are free, with the exception of some special programs and our boat tours(which are available through Vermilionville at a student rate)

Films:

Echoes of Acadie: 35 minute film profiles the Acadian Story from their deportation in Nova Scotia to their arrival to Louisiana, well done, dramatic, may be too intense for children younger than 8 (2nd graders).
Atchafalaya Revised : 15 minute film focusing on the Atchafalaya swamp and the inhabitants of a small community
Bayou Chenne.
Other film offerings on specific cultural titles (call to check)

Curriculum Based Educational Programs:

Grades 4 through 6
Grades 7 through 8

Scavenger Hunts:

We also offer different age levels of scavenger hunts through our museum for children old enough to read.

Bousillage Demo:
Children have hands on participation in this messy process.

Bayou Boat Tours:
Fall and Spring (also available in summer for group reservations, staffing permitting- see our web page.
Please check out our Acadian Cultural Center link for more details and please don't hesitate to contact me for further information.
http://www.nps.gov/jela/new-acadian-cultural-center.htm

_______________________________________________________________________

Dear Educator,

The staff at Audubon State Historic Site would like to invite you and your home school students to come join us this year for one of your field trips. We believe Audubon SHS will offer you and your students an enriching educational experience to cherish for years to come.

Audubon SHS, located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is a one hundred acre site with nature trails and a historic house museum. The Pirrie family built Oakley Plantation in 1806, when St. Francisville was a part of Spanish West Florida. Oakley's most famous visitor was the renowned artist and naturalist John James Audubon, who came in 1821 to tutor the Pirrie's 16 year-old daughter. During his three-month stay at Oakley, Audubon completed 32 paintings of his "Birds of America" series.

Audubon SHS has numerous educational programs for home school groups that interpret history as well as nature. Our interpretive programs are designed to meet several of Louisiana's educational benchmarks. A few of the programs offered are:
* Early Louisiana Plantation Life
* Slave Life in the Old South
* 19th century Crafts - candle making, soap making, basket weaving, spinning, weaving, and natural dyes
* Open-hearth Cooking Demonstrations (only available during cooler months, October - March)
* Cooking with Herbs and Herbal Medicines
* 19th century Fashions: Clothing, Etiquette, and the Language of the Fan
* 19th century Games
* Watching Wildlife
* Differentiating Animal Kingdoms

All home school groups are granted free admission to Audubon SHS; this includes students, teachers and chaperones. Reservations are required to schedule a tour of the historic house as well as the historic outbuildings, and we request at least a two week advanced notice to schedule a tour in order to ensure that enough staff will be on-hand the day of your visit. A ten to one student/adult ratio is recommended, but not mandatory. Interpretive programs can be added to any home school group's visit, if the request is given in a sufficient amount of time, which is a minimum of three weeks advanced notice.

Audubon SHS offers a number of annual events where visitors are invited to step back in time with us to learn about southern plantation life in the 19th century. For a few of these special events, the Friday before is set up as a "School Day" segment of the interpretive program. Home school groups are encouraged to attend these special Fridays, as they will be geared toward school-aged children. The days you may be interested in bringing your students for this next year's "School Day" events are:
Life on Plantation Row on September 26, 2008, Audubon Pilgrimage on March 20, 2009, and Audubon Nature Day on April 3, 2009. Admission for these events for home school groups is always free, but registration is required. Please call (225) 635-3739 or toll free at 1-888-677-2838 to register your home school group.

Sincerely,
Carrie Couvillon, Interpretive Ranger
Audubon State Historic Site, Oakley Plantation
225-635-3739 (main)
888-677-2838 (toll free)
225-784-0578 (fax)
audubon_int1@crt.state.la.us
www.lastateparks.com

____________________________________________________________________________
GUITAR LESSONS: My name is Daniel Bollich and I will be offering beginner and intermediate guitar lessons for all ages. I'm a high school senior and have been playing for 3 1/2 years. If you live within 30 minutes of Broussard, I will come to your home for the lessons. The charge will be $30 per lesson and each lesson is 45 minutes. Any additional siblings will be $20/45 min. lesson. (If you live farther than 30 minutes from Broussard, there will be an extra fee to cover gas/time.)
Requirements for learning:
A guitar (or the means to purchase one within a few weeks)
A willingness to learn
At least 30 minutes of practice time every day

Please contact me at fsad90@gmail.com or 315-9292.
____________________________________________________________________________
If you are interested in receiving the newsletter than Bonnie Bollich sends to parents of high school students (and you can recieve it even if your children are younger), please e-mail Bonnie directly at bbbollich@yahoo.com.
_____________________________________________________________________________________

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter--Special Edition

2008-08-21T12:02:00.000-07:00

HATS OFF TO HOMESCHOOLERS!!!!

Congratulations to Joseph Diaz, graduating senior, who is the recipient of one of UL-Lafayette's Academic Scholarships! He will start UL in August, majoring in Business Administration.

Congratulations to Eric Mitcham, graduating senior, who is the recipient of one of UL-Lafayette's Distinguished Freshman Scholarships. Eric will begin UL in August.

Congratulations to the homeschooled students who are on the winning team for the Louisiana State Envirothon competition. Daniel Bollich, Ethan Dugas, Rachel Zeringue, Monica Bollich and Christina Zeringue will represent Louisiana at the National Envirothon competition in Flagstaff, Az in July. They competed against students from Cameron, Zachary, Baton Rouge, New Orleans and the Louisiana School for Arts and Sciences. During the competition the students were tested in the areas of forestry, wildlife, aquatic ecology, soils/land use and a current environmental issue. We are proud of you! Good luck in Arizona!

Congratulations to Daniel Bollich, Monica Bollich, Ethan Dugas, Rachel Zeringue and Christina Zeringue who participated in the Canon Envirothon recently in Flagstaff, AZ. The Canon Envirothon is a multidisciplinary and environmental problem-solving competition. The teams, each consisting of five high school-aged students, exercise their training and problem-solving skills in a competition centered on four universal testing categories (soils/land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, and wildlife) and a current environmental issue, which is "recreational impacts on natural resources". Our team of 5, consisted of home schoolers from the Acadiana area and they represented the state of Louisiana at this national competition.

Although our teens did not place in the top 15, they did win a very coveted award called The Canon Envirothon Extra Mile Award. This award is given to the team which best exemplifies spirit, cooperation, friendship and leadership throughout the week. We are very proud of our Louisiana team.

Joanna LaFleur has been taking piano for 4 years under a fabulous instructor associated with the Louisiana Music Teachers Association and has placed 1st in Level B this year and will be going to state competition.

Philip Young has won the state Daughters of the American Revolution Essay Contest for High School, called the Christopher Columbus Essay. He also received the Italian-American Award from DAR.

Jacob Fontenot, son of Ernest and Tamara Fontenot of Church Point, received Cum Laude Honors in Latin I when he took the National Latin Exam. He's enrolled in the ninth grade with Mother of Divine Grace School.

Stuart Young has earned the highest award in Cub Scouting, the Arrow of Light, and has moved on to Boy Scouts. He expects to have earned the rankof Second Class before summer.

Both Philip and Stuart Young have earned the John Paul II Award, which is a Scouting religious award.

Congratulations to Joseph Diaz, who auditioned for and got a speaking role in a new movie being produced here in Lafayette. The movie is based on a H. P. Lovecraft story entitled "The Dunwich Horror".

8th grader Gage Seaux has won the following contest this year:
LUMCON's Boats of Louisiana Photography Contest - 3 place in the Teen Division(photo is on the website www.lumcon.edu)
2208 Wet Your Appetite: Cuisine for Critters Recipe Contest - Gage was one of the 6 winning entries chosen as exemplary out of all entries throughout the country

Congratulations to Madison Conrad, who will be receiving 2 awards this year for dance at River Dance Centre. She is getting her 3rd year award along with perfect attendance at her dance revue this year.

Congraulations to Samuel J. Campbell who achieved his Bear award in Cub Scouts this year.

Hannah West completed 3 years of dance at Angel Littleton's studio, MUSIC IN MOTION.

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-18T15:44:00.000-07:00

Firelight Children's Theatre will start its 2008-2009 season with classes commencing Monday, September 8th at 4:45-5:30p.m. for T'Lights (ages 4 to 8) and from 5:45-7:00p.m. for the Junior company, ages 9 and up. The senior company (ages 13 and up, with experience and by audition) will meet on Tuesdays, beginning September 2 from 6:00 to 8:00p.m. All classes will be conducted at the Firelight theatre studio in Milton and will consist of training in theatre arts including acting, staging, scenic design, singing and choreography. Performances will be held in November and April.

There will also be three new classes this year, featuring Broadway-style singing. The classes will focus on singing for the actor, acting for the singer, presentation, and movement. These classes will perform at Acadian Village during the Christmas season and will do a revue type show of Broadway music in the spring. The scheduled classes are as follows:

Ages 4-8: Wednesday 3:45-4:30p.m. beginning Sep. 3
Ages 9 and up: Thursday 6-7p.m. beginning Sep. 4
Adult/Teen: Monday 7-8:30p.m. beginning Sep. 8

For more information or to register, call Laura Blum at 856-0595, or visit their website at www.firelightenterprises.com.

Firelight Music is also registering students in piano, voice and guitar. Call 857-6991 for more information.
__________________________________________________________________

The Performing Arts Academy for the Home Schooled at Sheridan Productions is accepting enrollment for the Fall 2008 session which begins on September 15. Offering classes in ballet, modern dance, conditioning, and music, all classes are either on Mondays or Thursdays at the Sheridan Productions studio in Carencro.

Mondays:

1:00-2:00 Music 1.1

students learn to listen to, describe and critique music. They explore music from all around the world and from different genres and styles. Beginning rhythmic analysis exercises include hearing, repeating and creating clapped and stomped rhythms. This is a basic music literacy and appreciation course, part 1.

2:00-3:00 Ballet 1.0

Beginning ballet steps, terminology and technique, part 1.

3:00-4:00 Dance Improvisation

For students with at some modern training, this mixed-level class focuses on modern dance improvisation, increasing movement vocabulary, physical expressiveness and creativity using structured improve exercises for groups and individuals.

4:00-5:30 Ballet 4.0

Advanced level, maintaining technique and exploring a more challenging repertoire.

Thursdays:

1:00-2:00 Conditioning 2.0

A weekly workout for intermediate and advanced dancers. This class uses resistance bands and therapy balls as well as stretching and strengthening exercises from ballet, yoga, Pilates and modern dance to help students maintain health of muscles and joints.

2:00-3:00 Modern 4.0

An advanced class, maintaining technique through advanced choreography, as well as technique exercises from Graham and Horton techniques.

3:00-4:00 Modern 1.0

An exploration of movement, students learn to move freely and creatively and also learn basics including isolation, and the dynamics, rhythm, space and emotion of movement.

3:00-4:00 CREATIVE MOVEMENT FOR AGES 4-6

An exploration of movement and music for children ages 4-6. Best suited for children with no day-care or classroom experience. Taught by homeschooling mom and dancer, Shayna Broussard. For additional info, email familysheridan@bellsouth.net.

4:00-5:30 Ballet 2.0/3.0

Combining levels 2.0 and 3.0 offers the 3.0 class a chance to improve on grace and execution, while giving the 2.0 class the challenge of a quicker-moving class, with an increasingly harder repertoire.

Tuition: Fall Session tuition is due at registration. Payment installment plans are also available.
10% discount for second child

20% discount for third child

$30 registration fee for first-time students

Studio is located at 316 Bechet Road in Carencro. For a tour or for more information, please call Meghan at 896-1874, or email familysheridan@bellsouth.net.

___________________________________________________________________________________________

I think that this is all an indication of the direction that Lafayette and homeschooling is going in. When we started homeschooling, finding extracurricular arts activities for homeschoolers was much harder than it is now. These listings bring to 4 the theatrical arts opportunities available to area homeschoolers. Hooray!!!!!

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Homeschool Ice Skating
Join the Hockeyplex for our unique skating session offered to the homeschooled community. These sessions are provided at a discounted rate so skaters can earn their PE credits and participate in a fun activity outside of home.
THURSDAY & FRIDAYS
2008 FALL SESSION: SEPTEMBER 4 - OCTOBER 24
2009 WINTER SESSION: STAY TUNED!

LESSONS: $30 | 8 Week Session | 1:30-1:55pm
SKATE: $16 | 8 Week Session | 2:00-3:30pm
WALK-ON: $6 Admission| $2 Skate Rental
___________________________________________________________________
Port Hudson State Historical site will be hosting a home school day for the 2008-2009 school year. It will take place Friday October 17, 2008 from 9 AM to 12 PM. We ask that you call the park [225-654-3775] prior to the event so we know who all will be attending and plan accordingly. There will be no admission fees for this event. Thank you for your interest in Port Hudson SHS and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask.

Steve Ramke
Interpretive Ranger 2
Port Hudson SHS
http://www.nps.gov/history/nr/travel/louisiana/por.htm
__________________________________________________________________________________
This is our AHSA COMMANDOS game schedule for the season. Any questions, please respond to this email. Admission to all games is $6/adult; $2/student. Thanks! Please come support our new home school team!!!

AUG. 15 (FRIDAY) @ 7PM AT LCA (LAFAYETTE CHRISTIAN ACADEMY)
(this is actually one of our HOME games)

AUG.21 (THURSDAY) @ 7PM @ MOORE PARK (HOME)

AUG. 30 (SATURDAY) @ 7PM LIGHTHOUSE IN ABBEVILLE (AWAY)

SEPT.4 (THURSDAY) @ 7PM @ MOORE PARK (HOME)

SEPT.11 (THURSDAY) @ 7PM @ MOORE PARK (HOME)

SEPT. 20 (SATURDAY) @ 10 AM @ MOORE PARK (HOME)

SEPT.25 (THURSDAY) @HARVESTTIME IN ABBEVILLE TIME @7 PM(AWAY)

OCT.2 (THURSDAY) @ 6:30PM @ LCA (AWAY)

OCT. 9 (THURSDAY) @BREAUX BRIDGE, TIME &PLACE TBA (AWAY)

OCT. 16 @ 7PM @ ACADIANA PREP , DONALD GARDNER STADIUM OPELOUSAS (AWAY)

PLAYOFFS OCT. 23-25

STATE GAME @ LCA NOV.1 TIME AND TEAMS TBA
_____________________________________________________________
Walter Brown will be offering another set of acting classes. He will offer a class for younger students (ages 8-12, although he will meet and "audition" younger students at the parents' request), and a class for older students (ages 13+).

The younger class will focus on building confidence in speaking and interacting with and in front of others, as well as the foundations of techniques in acting. Emphasis will be given to theatre games which promote these goals.

The older class will focus on the techniques of acting, as well as the technical aspects of a stage production (lighting, set design, make-up). Depending on the expressed interests of the group, the class may also focus in part on what is more technically "speech", such as dramatic interpretation.

Both classes will work toward productions at the end of the year.

Walter also plans to offer an adult class.

Classes are tentatively scheduled for Mondays at Cite Des Arts (in downtown Lafayette). For more information, answers to specific questions or to register for the classes, please contact Walter Brown at 235-6284 or by e-mail at wfj5552@cs.com
___________________________________________________________________________
Acting Up (in Acadiana) 2008-2009 Registration

Company class auditions take place on Aug. 25th or my appointment (feel free to contact me for details). Classes are available for students ages 7-adult. All students, regardless of future work, can build confidence in public speaking, practice collaborative and group working skills, nurture the imagination and creativity, and just have fun!

All classes meet at the Acadiana Center for the Arts. Classes begin the week of September 8th and run through the first week of June (holidays are taken according to Lafayette Parish School Calendar). Students perform a public showcase in mid-January and host a classroom invitational in May. Waguespack and former students have worked in theatre, film, television, and commercials in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, and more.

Elementary School Class (Wednesdays 4:30-5:30 PM)
This class develops the young actors focus and concentration skills as well as collaboration and ensemble building. Improvisation is used as a tool to discover character.

Jr. High and Beginner High School Classes (Mondays 4:30-6 PM)
This class begins more complex character development through the
theories and practices of Stanislavski and Stanislavski inspired techniques.

Intermediate High School and Beginner Adults (Tuesdays 6-7:30 PM)
This class explores multiple acting theories and practices, helping the
growing actor to discover a method or combination of methods that works best for
him/her.

Company Class (Mondays 6:15-7:45)
Participation by audition or invitation.
The professional company continued training in voice, movement, dance,
theory and practice.

If you are unsure which class is best for you or your child, feel free to
contact me (Amy Waguespack of Acting Up in Acadiana) at (337) 739-4273.
_________________________________________________________________________
(The following is a letter from Lloyd Runyan to those who currently belong to the Homeschool Band and those who are interested in joining):

Dear Band Families,

These past few weeks have been difficult but promising for the Acadiana Homeschool Band Program. I was weighing very heavily whether or not to continue teaching in New Orleans. The New Orleans group was the baby that grew and taught me how to succeed with a homeschool band program and many of the families there have become like family to me. This past weekend I finally made the decision to discontinue teaching in New Orleans. This was a painful decision but was made based on what was best for my family and myself considering the time, travel, and energy I was expending and the fact that each location was being hampered with only one day a week to rehearse.

But God is Good. I was hoping that the program there could continue with another teacher. So I called the president of New Orleans Band Director's Association and informed him of the open position. After briefly talking to him about the situation he said, "Lloyd, you will never believe this but I just got an email from a lady who wants to teach homeschoolers". I spoke with the lady and she was very excited about the opportunity. She seems to have a heart to teach the group as well as to expand their horizons and bring the program back to its feet like we had it before the storm. I have much peace now that I believe the program will survive and keep growing and serving homeschool children in the New Orleans area. The New Orleans Band Program will be a sister band program to ours carrying the same name NOAH. As for us, we will be the Acadiana Homeschool Band representing NOAH. Stephanie, the new band director, and I will be meeting this weekend to discuss the whole program and how it has worked for the past seven years. I ask for prayers for a smooth transition with the New Orleans Band Program. And let's praise God for His hand carrying the baton and directing the program in the way He sees fit.

What does that do for us? First of all, I can spend all of my time and energy here. I will be able to plan accordingly and offer more services than I have in the past two years. These past two years we have actually had, in my opinion, only a skeleton of the program which I wanted for you. It is time to open up all of the flood gates and let all the possibilities start pouring in.

I am working on a new location on the south side of Lafayette in the Broussard/St. Martinsville area for homeschoolers on that side of Lafayette to more easily reach rehearsal. If you live in that area, let me know and I can start trying to schedule you on Monday. If you still want to come on Thursday afternoons, that is fine as well. We will still meet at the my home on Thursdays. Until we firm up the plans for the other location, we will continue to meet at the my home on Monday as well starting at 2:00. Once we find a location in that area we will start rehearsaing there on Monday. This will help with your time and gas and will hopefully bring more families into the program.

If you have a child who is 10 years of age or older and they are going to be in the band, I need to set up a tryout time to decide what instrument is best for them. Please call me at 235-6644 or on my cell 504-339-0727 or email me LYJSKFAM@aol.com to arrange that time.

We will have a kickoff meeting Thursday, Sept. 4th at 3:00 tentatively here in the Runyan studio, 136 Jerome Rd, Lafayette 70507. We may find another location due to size of the group. We would have started a couple of weeks earlier but I was still trying to decide what to do with the New Orleans program. And now I am changing my route on my day job to fit accordingly to our schedule.

Acadiana Homeschool Band Magazine Fund Drive VERY IMPORTANT PLEASE READ THROUGHLY
It is very important for us to raise funds for band equipment. In all, band equipment costs thousands of dollars for just a few items. What I need from each family is participation. Last year we had only 9 families participate but we raised just over a thousand dollars. What would happen if we had all of our families participate? This magazine fundraisier is a great fundraiser. Andrew Bollich, one of our band parents, is a professional fundraiser for many clubs, bands and athletic organizations. He is a part of what I see is the best organization to do this. Mr. Andrew will be speaking at the opening meeting and for now I need each student to come up with 10 addresses of families or friends that a magaizine brouchure can be sent to. If you know of a family member, or a friend or a business that buys magazInes this will be their opportunity to help your band program succeed in buying equipment that we desperately need. FAMILIES, please look at this sincerely, this is an easy fundraiser that returns almost half of the money to us to help us provide our needs in band equipment. So please don't take this lightly. Fundraising is necessary for us to survive and grow. All I ask is that you do your best and whatever comes of that is a blessing.

Thank you for your participation. It is truly an honor to teach your child in the field of music.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Don't forget the Friends of the Library sale at the main branch of the Lafayette Public Library!________________________________________________________________________________

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-13T08:49:00.001-07:00

Dear Home School Families,

My name is Jill Griffin , Curator for the Louisiana State Museum – Patterson. I would like to invite you to our Home School Day on September 4, 2008. We would like to give you an opportunity to view our changing exhibit gallery which is currently the home of works by world renowned artist George Rodrigue. Rodrigue: Cajuns and Blue Dogs Paintings from Louisiana Family Collections 1971-2008 exhibit features work spanning across thirty years of the artist’s distinguished career. Included in this exhibition are select “Cajun” works from the Begneaud Family Collection, the Saga of the Acadians series from the Gauthier family collection, and “Blue Dogs” from the private collection of George and Wendy Rodrigue.

Attached is a teacher’s guide that offers background information on George Rodrigue and his works as well as pre and post museum lesson plans to supplement your museum visit. We will also be offering a special scavenger hunt for the Rodrigue exhibit. This exhibit provides a great visual opportunity to teach about Cajun heritage. Please do not miss out on this wonderful opportunity

We would also like to give you the opportunity to view our two permanent galleries, the newly renovated Wedell-Williams Aviation Gallery and the Cypress Sawmill Gallery. Please see the information below describing each of the current exhibits.

We will be having a special presentation with educational activities for the George Rodrigue
exhibit at 10:00AM. The Home School Day will be free of charge. Feel free to visit anytime that day between 9:00AM and 4:00PM. RSVP requested. Please either call the museum at 985-399-1268 or email us at jgriffin@crt.state.la.us to sign-up. Please specify on if you will be attending the 10:00AM program.

Thanks,

Jill Griffin
Curator
Louisiana State Museum
Wedell-Williams Aviation Museum
Cypress Sawmill Museum
(985) 399-1268
(985) 399-1270
(985) 399-9910 fax
jgriffin@crt.state.la.us
http://lsm.crt.state.la.us

We are proud to announce that the newly remodeled Wedell-Williams Aviation Exhibit is now open. Our facility is also home to the Cypress Sawmill Collection and a Changing Exhibit Gallery which currently features the George Rodrigue exhibit Rodrigue: Cajuns and Blue Dogs Paintings from Louisiana Family Collections 1971-2008.

The newly renovated Aviation Exhibit features state-of-the-art displays including numerous aircraft, 1930’s air race trophies and memorabilia, and an exciting new air racing film. The Aviation Exhibit also has a children’s interactive gallery that is still under renovation but will open later in the summer. An educational guide can be provided for those interested in incorporating materials that will reinforce what their children learn at the museum. I will be happy to provide an outline of these materials to you prior to your visit.

The Cypress Sawmill Exhibit focuses on the once thriving business of the cypress lumbering industry located in St. Mary Parish. In conjunction with the guided tour of this exhibit, the museum offers a scavenger hunt that can be adapted to many different age levels.

The museum also has a changing exhibit gallery that features a variety of exhibits throughout the year. Currently our changing exhibit gallery is the temporary home of works by world renowned artist George Rodrigue. This exhibit will also have interactive activities available to enhance the children’s learning experience. Please find information about the Rodrigue exhibit attached.

Second Saturday children’s programs are also offered at the museum. These are held on the second Saturday of each month to teach children about the rich heritage of Louisiana . Please find information about the Second Saturday Programs attached. I am willing to adapt any of these programs to meet your needs
_______________________________________________________________

Brainworks Language and Learning Center offers speech and

language therapy as well as assistance for home school families who

may have a child who learns differently.

We offer programs that target the skills that may be holding your child

back. Calling us to schedule a cognitive skills screening is the first

step to unlocking your child's potential.

We specialize in helping children with:

Poor Grades

AD/HD

Memory Impairments

Speech and Language Delays

History of Ear Infections

Other developmental delays and disorders that interfere with

academic achievement

When a child is struggling academically, repetition of subject matter is

typically not enough. The student's cognitive tools must be

sharpened.

Deficits in the underlying cognitive skills that are required to achieve

academic success are the likely root of the problem. These abilities

include processing speed, working memory, attention, listening

comprehension, visual processing, auditory processing, logic and

reasoning, and integration of skills.

With the right intervention, underlying cognitive skills are

strengthened, and as a result, the student becomes a better learner.

Our focus is to target the student's entire learning system, not just the

surface skills. By improving these essential skills, the student

becomes a more efficient learner, thus making learning easier.

With the right program, a student can experience significant

improvement in reading, spelling, comprehension, memory, attention,

math, social skills, and other areas of academic and personal

success.

Our goal and commitment is to strengthen processing and learning

skills to help children and adults become successful in school and the

workplace.

We can be reached at 232-2680 or read more about us at

www.brainworksoflafayette.com

Shannon Fruge received her B.S. from Southeastern Louisiana University and

M.C.D. from LSU Medical Center in New Orleans. She is licensed in the State of

Louisiana by The Louisiana Board of Examiners for Speech-Language Pathology

and Audiology (LBESPA) and holds the Certificate of Clinical Competence (CCC)

from the American Speech Language and Hearing Association (ASHA).

All of the teachers and program specialists at Brainworks hold a minimum of a

Bachelor’s degree and have completed advanced certification in various

educational programs.
______________________________________________________________
"The Bridge to Terabithia", a production of The Acadia Players of
Crowley featuring children from Acadia Parish and surrounding areas,
announces its schedule. School performances will be Thursday,
September 25 & Friday, Sept. 26 at 9 a.m. Student rates are $1. per
student with teachers, chaperones, and bus drivers free. Schools
interested in attending Thursday's or Friday's performance need to
contact acadiaplayers@ yahoo.com attn: School Performance with name of
school, teacher name, grade level, number of students and chaperones,
any handicap needs, and date preference. Every teacher that attends
will receive a free teacher's guide with Internet activities and
GLE's. Schools are responsible for their own transportation. Public
performances are set for Sept. 26 & 27th at 7 p.m. and 28th at 2 p.m.
at the Crowley Rice Theater. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for
children 18 and under. Tickets may be purchased at the door.
_____________________________________________________________________________
Hi and welcome to the 2008-2009 school year! This is the first e-news I'm sending out for this school year, so if you know of anyone who might want to get on this "College bound" e-newsletter, please send me their e-mail address.

And please remember to share info with everyone. If you have information that you feel would be beneficial to homeschoolers with college bound highschool age students, please pass it on. Thanks so much!

May God bless your home school,
Bonnie

CORE CURRICULUM -

From the Louisiana Dept of Education website:
§2319. High School Graduation Requirements

A. Standard Diploma
1. For incoming freshmen prior to 2008-2009, the 23 units required for graduation shall include 15 required units and 8 elective units

2. For incoming freshmen in 2008-2009 and beyond, the 24 units required for graduation shall include 16 required units and 8 elective units for the Louisiana Core Curriculum, or 21 required units and 3 elective units for the Louisiana Core 4 Curriculum

For more detailed info, please refer to http://www.doe.state.la.us/lde/uploads/7516.pdf

ACT TEST - For more info, http://www.actstudent.org/

SAT TEST - Next SAT test date: October 4, 2008
Registration Deadline: September 9, 2008
________________________________________________________________________
If any of you are interested in helping to plan for community vegetable gardens wherever they are needed in Lafayette, please come to this meeting next week held at Sanjay Kharod's city government office. Teen activists are welcome!

This is an invitation to you all to our 3rd meeting to discuss neighborhood vegetable gardens in low income areas of Lafayette. This meeting will now take place at Sanjay’s office at 5:30 Wednesday, 20 August, the directions are written below. Don’t miss the start of this project, it is going to be huge and rewarding.
I really hope you guys can make it. Tell your friends and co-workers too.
If you have any questions, please call Stacey Scarce at 291-844.
From Jefferson Street (coming into Downtown from Evangeline Thruway) turn left onto Cypress Street.

On your left will be a branch Post Office and there will be chain fencing enclosing a parking area for post office vehicles. Immediately past the chain fencing there is a public parking lot - - - turn into the parking lot.

Entering the parking lot - - - - if you went straight you will run into the transit terminal and rail depot building (red brick and recently restored). If you are well into the parking lot - - - - turn to your left. You will see the post office building with two doors with two sidewalks leading to them. Green grass is overgrown between the sidewalks.

The door to the left has a sign which reads “MPO Planning Division” - - - that is where we are and where the meeting will be. You will enter into a hall. There is a door to your left opposite the entrance. We will be waiting for you in that meeting room.

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-08-02T09:06:00.000-07:00

Dr. James Haygood, Choral Director of Chorale Acadienne, will hold auditions for anyone desiring to sing with the group. Auditions will be held on August 11, 6 P.M. at First Presbyterian Church located on the corner of Johnston and University. Interested singers must be able to read music and have 2 copies of the sheet music from which they will audition. For more information, call the Chorale office at 337.269.8874. To learn more about Chorale, go to www.choraleacadienne.com.
__________________________________________________
The mission of The Ballet Studio is to provide its students with the highest quality dance education possible so that all of our students will gain a love and appreciation of the art of dance, as well as an enhanced sense of self-worth and accomplishment. Classes are offered at all levels from pre-school to adult ballet. We have classes to fill every dancer's needs whether training in our program to become a professional dancer or for fitness, enjoyment and the love of dance. We maintain an environment of positive reinforcement and loving discipline in our classes, which we feel is necessary to the progress and growth of any student, child or adult.

Several classes have low enrollment at this time. Those classes are: 3 year olds (Monday 9:15 - 10:05); 3 year olds (Thursday 10:00 - 10:50); and 4 year olds (Wednesday 1:00 - 2:00). The 5/6 year old class on Monday at 11:10 - 12:10 also has several more spaces available. There are also a few spaces in many of the other classes.

The Ballet Studio and Beverly Spell (the director) can be contacted at 856-5050 or by e-mail at theballetstudio@earthlink.net.

(Editor's note: My 14 year old, Martha, has taken classes with Beverly for 3 years now. I cannot begin to count the benefits that she has gotten from them. This summer Martha's class went to New York to study at the Alvin Ailey School. I would personally recommend The Ballet Studio to anyone whose child wants to dance, do theatre or needs improvement in posture or movement.)
________________________________________________________
The "Tween book club will meet at the main branch of the Lafayette Public Library on Thursday, Aug 7, 2008 from 12:00 to 1:30 pm. Finally a book club geared to kids ages 9 - 12! Tweens will make the selections of the books they will read and discuss following an introductory meeting. To participate, you need to call the Children’s Dept. at 261-5779. Bring a bag lunch. Drinks and snacks will be provided.Lafayette Public Library, 301 W Congress, Lafayette Parish.
More Information: 337-261-5779
___________________________________________________
The Children's Department of the Main Branch of the Lafayette Public Library will present "The Spiderwick Chronicles" on Wednesday, August 6th from 2:30 to 4:10 pm. Admission is free, and for more information, call the children's department at 261-5779.
__________________________________________________
Don't forget that the bi-annual Library sale is coming up at the Lafayette Public Library. The next sale will be held on September 11-13, 2008, with the Friends' Preview Night on September 10.

F.R.E.E. SPIRIT Newsletter

2008-07-31T13:48:00.000-07:00

Home School Day at Space Center Houston

Registration Opens This Friday, August 1st for exclusive
"Field Trip to the Moon" Day Adventure
Wednesday, October 8th, 2008
9:00 am-5:00 pm

Join families from all over Texas at Space Center Houston's new Home School "Field Trip to the Moon!" featuring age-appropriate learning programs and activities. Space Center Houston's professional educators will guide and assist your students through studies of rocketry, recent NASA discoveries, robotics and astronaut training. Also, see a special guest speaker presentation. Families will find these special days fundamentally educational and very memorable.
Our "Field Trip To The Moon" Day Adventure is designed for all ages! The Education Staff will have lots of hands-on activities and demonstrations that require NO pre-registration! !!
All of the following included with admission:

All NEW Special "Field Trip to the Moon" hands-on activities and demonstrations!
Discount Tire NASA Tram Tour with a rocket launch!
All exhibits and attractions!
All NEW "Giant Worlds" Exhibit!
And MUCH MORE!

Order and pay by September 23rd and the price is only $9.50 per person! Orders placed on or after September 23rd are $11.95 per person. Pre-registration is required 48 hours in advance.
*Space Center Houston is closed to the general public on this day! So register early and come enjoy a family friendly event!
For more information or to download a registration form, visit our website athttp://www.spacecen ter.org/HomeScho ol.html. Your family will thank you!Call (281) 283-4755
Email: reservations@ spacecenter. org

_____________________________________________________________

FREE LAPBOOKING WORKSHOP
Recently there has been a lot of interest in lapbooking. We will be hosting a workshop August at 9th at 10am at the Home School Cottage Broussard. The ladies from A Journey Through Learning will be presenting lapbooking basics: folds, assembly, and layout. They will also be sharing some of their new designs for lapbooks.

Please RSVP at 337.330.2356 and bring your own scissors, ruler and a pencil or pen, as we will be doing some hands-on learning.

__________________________________________________________________

Piano and Flute lessons by Lynne Duff
I taught for 18 years in Memphis. I had my own studio, and taught piano and flute. I would like to start teaching lessons again. We homeschooled our son, Colin, in highschool, and I feel a real connection with other homeschooling families. We live in Youngsville right behind Nu-Nu's on Youngsville Hwy. My number is 371-6697 and my e-mail is lynne.marco@yahoo.com

____________________________________________________________

HOME SCHOOL COTTAGE BROUSSARD
517 E Main Street, Broussard, LA 70518 (337.330.2356)
www.schoolcottage.com

What a great summer so far with science, photography and knitting! Thanks to everyone who participated. We are planning more activities for the fall. We hope to add writing and science activities throughout the year. We are currently accepting consignments during our regular business hours: TU-TH 1-4:30pm
PLEASE CHECK OUR LATEST NEWS AND CALENDAR FOR UPDATES.
http://www.schoolcottage.com/index.php?pg=latestnews

We have several ART classes planned for August, September and October.
Clay Play for K-3rd
Art activity with clay
Friday, August 22 1-2:30pm; $12

Clay Play for 4th and up
Art activity with clay
Friday, August 22 2:30-4pm; $12

Art through History
Ages 10 and up. Fridays in September 1-2pm; $60
Will do examples of Cave paintings and other samples of art to the present.

Art of Masks and Costumes
Ages 10 and up. Fridays in October 1-2pm; $60
Masks and simple costumes and cloaks will be created during this class.

FALL CLASS INFORMATION
Fall Classes begin the week of Labor Day, TU Sept 2nd through FR Sept 5th
Registration for fall classes beginning in August. Deadline to register August 22nd. Deposit and supply fee are due at registration.
A schedule, prices and payment information for classes are posted on the LATEST NEWS page of the website.
http://www.schoolcottage.com/index.php?pg=latestnews

Early Elementary Spanish K-3rd grade

Early Elementary French K-3rd grade

Beginning Elementary Spanish 4th – 6th grades

Sign Language All ages welcomed K – high school

Beginning Sewing Machine Sewing Ages 9 & up Must bring own sewing machine to class

Right Start Geometry 6th - 8th grades

Louisiana History 7th – 8th grades

Useful Links

2008-07-30T10:31:00.000-07:00

About Us

2008-07-30T10:30:00.000-07:00

Welcome Homeschool Families of the extended Acadiana area, Lafayette and surrounding parishes in south-central Louisiana.

Magnolia Home Educators is a secular group open and respectful to the beliefs of all of its members. Here we wish to form a support community, including resource sharing, friendships, planned play dates and fieldtrips.