2009

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2009 Class Descriptions

See what LDSEHE offered in the 2009!

All LDSEHE classes and workshops are ALWAYS RECORDED LIVE! All CDs are available for purchase. Click here for order form.

Jeff Benedict

Take the Long View

Jeff Benedict
In life, things don’t always work out the way they appear at first. Drawing from his own experiences and the lives of inspiring people he has written about, best-selling author and award-winning journalist Jeff Benedict will share true stories of determination and hard work that translated into unexpected experiences many years later.
Friday 8:30 -9:30 AM

Max Bertola

Karl G. Maeser Academy (Vendor Workshop)

Max Bertola
Max Bertola, the Director of Karl G. Maeser Academy, will be discussing and demonstrating the online programs and the Virtual Classroom technology offered by the academy, and answering any questions you may have. Karl G. Maeser Academy is a private fully-accredited, year-round, online school open to students in the U.S. and around the world. We offer education programs for Elementary, Jr. High, and High school students. Our program combines the advantages of home education with the benefits of a private LDS school. Students can enroll in individual High School courses or enroll full-time and work towards earning a High School diploma. We offer a variety of interactive web-based courses that have assisted students to enjoy and excel in a wide array of subjects.
Thursday 10:15 - 10:45 AM

Kari Brimhall

Change the World (a Mentor Mom© class)

Kari Brimhall
Would you like to develop a way for kids and parents to learn and share about the great men, women and events that have changed the world? The Brimhall family has developed a way to just that, and they LOVE it! Each month, they research a great person or event and then use a variety of ways to give a presentation. Each presentation involves severalareas of learning: research, writing, geography, history, creative thinking, and public speaking. The Brimhall family has done this for the last five years and feels it has changed their lives! Come learn how to change yours!
Download class handout HERE
Friday 8:30 - 9:00 AM

If you build it they will come (a Mentor Mom© class)

Kari Brimhall & Michelle Carbee
The "Passport Club", "Time Travelers", "Pencil Pizzazz", "Young Scientists"…sound intriguing? Come learn how to start a greatweeklyhomeschool group with just a couple of families in your area. Kari and Michelle have had afabulousexperience for the last 5 years with a dynamic group that changes yearly. These experiences will bring excitement, commitment and educational benefits to your family and others as you share in the learning process.Learn how to put together groups for elementary, middle and high school aged kids. We will “break down” classes for certain ages and offer time-tested tips on how to make your group manageable and FUN!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:45 - 3:15 PM

Heather Burton

Becoming a statesmother: Making a difference while making a home

Heather Burton
Mom's To Do List

Clean out the fridge
Inspire someone else to wash the floor
Finish War and Peace
Consult with Dad aboutwar and peacein our home
Plan menus for the next week
Plan Jr. Global Citizen Club for the next year
Save $ for church history trip
Save the world
Sound familiar? "Statesmothering" is not for wimps! Come bring your wonderful mind for a practical and hopeful look at "having it A.L.L." from a leadership education perspective. It can be done!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Loving the Things the Lord Loves, Even When They Are Our Own Troubled Children

Heather Burton
Rough spots happen. So, sometimes, do blame, fear, anger, frustration, hurt, and anxiety. But, do they have to go together? This presentation is a simple reminder of the helps we do have when even our best efforts and most dearly held beliefs and hopes are being challenged by the very people we have welcomed into the world. We’ll cover the parenting manual we do have from the Best Parent Ever, a (maybe) new ways to think about suffering and our children’s choices, sweet comfort from the lives of real people who were troubled children, and the “camaraderie of parents who are trying.”
Download class handout HERE
Friday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Relationships Rule!

Heather Burton
You’ve a wall of books, you have a philosophy of learning and a game-plan to match, you’ve got a stack of school supplies, an online support group, a library card, and a dedicated room in the house for homeschool. You’re all set, right? Well, maybe. The key to truly great education—and this is the big golden key that opens all the doors—is healthy relationships. In this workshop, Heather Burton offers some gleaned wisdom about learning with love. We’ll discuss the real source of our influence with our children, what studying our core books can do to fix us when we’re out of alignment, ways to help things go right, and the difference between what looks right and is right to do with learning in our homes. Bring questions!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

A Thomas Jefferson Education: What It Is, What It is not, What It Can Be For You

Heather Burton
When you consider the qualities you would like your children to develop and take with them into their adult lives, do any of these come to mind: an understanding of the connection between faith and study, self-leadership and responsible use of agency, a sense of personal mission and purpose, a love of truth, personal initiative, social fluency in diverse settings, a desire to serve humanity? According to the research and writing of Dr. Oliver DeMille and his colleagues at George Wythe University, these are some of the qualities of statesmen/stateswomen-leaders and can be developed through truly great education. In this presentation, you will be introduced to the “five pillars,” “the eight keys,” and the “five environments” of what has come to be known as Thomas Jefferson Education, all from the perspective of a “TJEd” mom of nine who is increasingly convinced that Leadership Education “á la TJEd” will help our children prepare well to be “men and women of virtue, wisdom, diplomacy and courage who inspire greatness in others and move the cause of liberty.” (GWU Mission Statement)
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Michelle Carbee

If You Build It, They Will Come: Successful Homeschool Groups (a Mentor Mom© class)

Michelle Carbee & Kari Brimhall
The "Passport Club", "Time Travelers", "Pencil Pizzazz", "Young Scientists"…sound intriguing? Come learn how to start a greatweeklyhomeschool group with just a couple of families in your area. Kari and Michelle have had afabulousexperience for the last 5 years with a dynamic group that changes yearly. These experiences will bring excitement, commitment and educational benefits to your family and others as you share in the learning process.Learn how to put together groups for elementary, middle and high school aged kids. We will “break down” classes for certain ages and offer time-tested tips on how to make your group manageable and FUN!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:45- 3:15 PM

Melissa Coombs

I'm Doing All I Can, and yet my child still struggles

Melissa Coombs & Ann Sharp
An educational researcher and a homeschool parent with dyslexic children have teamed together in order to bring you research-based instruction and practical hands-on help for your struggling reader. You will learn what processes are necessary and how they orchestrate together to create the symphonic results we call reading. You will also learn, metaphorically speaking, what to do when parts of the orchestra can’t play the instruments or forget to show up. You will learn strategies to help conquer reading problems, and learn how to find hope in the journey. As the scriptures remind us: “I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.” (Alma 36:3)
Download class handout HERE
Friday 8:30 - 9:30 AM

Keeping your marriage top priority in your homeschool house

Melissa Coombs & Sean Coombs
Keeping a marriage strong takes constant effort, even under the easiest of circumstances. Adding homeschooling to the family dynamic requires extra effort to make sure that “nurturing the marriage relationship” doesn’t fall to last place on Mom and Dad’s “to do list.” This class will focus on the necessity for keeping your marriage “top priority,” even when other responsibilities seem to take much of our time. Using the scriptures and words from our modern prophets, we will examine the need for unity and nurturing in the marriage. We will also discuss practical ways to “put each other first,” despite busy callings, business travel and the constant needs of our children. Husbands and wives should be each other’s best support, particularly in a homeschooling family. Come and learn how to help each other along this homeschool family path!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Sean Coombs

Keeping your marriage top priority in your homeschool house

Sean Coombs & Melissa Coombs
Keeping a marriage strong takes constant effort, even under the easiest of circumstances. Adding homeschooling to the family dynamic requires extra effort to make sure that “nurturing the marriage relationship” doesn’t fall to last place on Mom and Dad’s “to do list.” This class will focus on the necessity for keeping your marriage “top priority,” even when other responsibilities seem to take much of our time. Using the scriptures and words from our modern prophets, we will examine the need for unity and nurturing in the marriage. We will also discuss practical ways to “put each other first,” despite busy callings, business travel and the constant needs of our children. Husbands and wives should be each other’s best support, particularly in a homeschooling family. Come and learn how to help each other along this homeschool family path!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Brent DeGraff

World history: What if?

Brent DeGraff
To the casual observer, World History may seem like chaotic incidents: no thread, no system, no line of connection running through it. Kingdoms rise on the stage one after another and become great and powerful, then pass away and are forgotten. Changes swirl within and between countries seemingly without order or purpose. Yet all is not chaos. God is a God of order and the LDS student must be taught to keep his eye devoutly fixed on the hand of God. Bruce R. McConkie said, “From the beginning to now, the real history of the world has either been lost or so twisted and perverted that our present knowledge falls far short of the real truth about past events. When the real history of the world is written - as it will be by the spirit of inspiration - it will show God’s dealings with men, the place the gospel has played in the rise and fall of nations, and how eras of darkness and degeneration have resulted from apostasy from the way of the Lord.” In this lecture, we will ask and answer the question each LDS student of history should ask - What If? What if Charles Martell had not defeated the conquering Moors? What if Joan of Arc had not triumphed in France? What if the Spanish Armada had not been defeated? What if Luther had faltered at the Diet of Worms? What if Henry the VIII had not broken from the Catholic Church? By examining the importance of each of these and other incidents and answering “what if the outcome had been different,” one answer will be concluded. When great nations unexpectedly fall and victory is achieved by the most unlikely of heroes, we must recognize the hand of God in history. When LDS history students search out and recognize His hand in history, they not only see the plan for nations, kingdoms and civilizations but they also recognize that they, too, are a part of God’s plan.
Thursday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

Liahona Online Distance Education program (vendor workshop)

Brent DeGraff
This is your chance to find out why so many teenagers and their parents love Liahona’s Online Distance Education Program! Taught by two moms who actually use the program, you’ll discover why Liahona is so popular! Learn how we incorporate the gospel into a strong core of academics, why our student’s ACT scores are so high, and how it’s possible to have fun while learning those “tough to teach” courses. Liahona strives to answer Brigham Young’s challenge when he said, “ I hope to see the day when the doctrines of the gospel will be taught in all our schools, when the revelation of the Lord will be our texts, and our books will be written and manufactured by ourselves and in our own midst.” Online classes allow the convenience of watching anytime and anywhere, as Liahona seamlessly blends correct secular teachings with restored doctrines of the gospel. Students are taught how to apply revealed knowledge to academic subjects and thought. Come see how Liahona can enhance your home school program
Thursday 3:15- 3:45 PM

Kimberly Fletcher

How to save the world in 10 days (a Mentor Mom© class)

Kimberly Fletcher
We live in troubling times. That has never been more apparent than now. The principles our nation was founded on and the values society promoted are under constant attack. We witness evil forces at every turn uniting to destroy the family, distort the truth and deny freedom. Wars are a commonplace and Gadianton robbers fill the judgment seats of every nation—including our own. It seems easy to sometimes fall into despair for the future of our children and our nation. But God is counting on us to be the light of liberty in our homes, in our nation, and in the world. And though our times seem desperate and dismal they are not unique. For at one of the most wicked and perverse times of the Bible there was a woman named Ruth and at one of the most violent and wicked times of the Book of Mormon there was a man named Mormon. And at one of the most corrupt, perverse and ungodly times in American History…there is you.

If you have been feeling that deep prompting and urgency be more involved in your community, state and nation then this is the class for you. How to Save the World in 10 Days is a 30 minute infusion of information, inspiration and empowerment that will teach you how to be anxiously engaged as citizens in your home, your community and your nation—without sacrificing your families. Yes it really is possible and it all starts with the first 10 days.
Download class handout HERE
Download full booklet HERE
Thursday 3:15 -3:45 PM

Alan Fluckiger

What Happened to the economy?: An Austrian Explanation

Alan Fluckiger
Your youth have a critical mission to fulfill on earth, and their homeschooling is a huge part of that preparation. In order to raise sons and daughters of faith and help prepare them for life’s missions, their preparation must also include an understanding of correct principles in every subject. Then, whatever else they do, they will be teachers of correct principles to all those in their circles of influence. See how the Austrian theory is based upon discovery of natural laws or principles, (correct principles) which are as constant as gravity, given the consistency of human nature since the beginning of time. Learn how Austrian economics provides: a basis for a free market economy, an explanation for the current depression (recession), and a correct prescription for remedy—teach this to your children!
Download class handout HERE
Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Ensign Education - Internet based live home education (vendor workshop)

Alan Fluckiger
Ensign Education features “Live Distance classes.” This workshop explains the resources and advantages of Ensign Education in your home schooling curriculum. A parent says: “Since their preparation must include an understanding of correct principles in every subject, I am thrilled to have Ensign Education. Now I have a teaching assistant who is positive, encouraging and the kind of teacher I want my children to have. Online class always happens, no matter what. I can double up on duties because I can hear what the teacher is saying and I can see my student. I know how to reinforce what this positive, encouraging teacher who teaches right in our home. I wish Ensign Education had been available for all 22 years of my homeschooling! I just love it.” The company president says: “Critical thinking and learning how to discover truth is an invaluable skill that each must learn to develop. It is our view that a child’s open mind offers that which is as sacred as their virtue. In teaching, we tread there with great reverence. Providing the examples of living truths, (most importantly the truths of the gospel) and teaching them to have receptive hearts, will bring about disciple leadership in our children. We feel that until the Savior returns, such teaching is what we (as parents and at Ensign Education) are charged to do.”
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 11:00 - 11:30 AM

Diane Fluckiger

Preparing daughters to become mothers who know

Diane Fluckiger
There must be more to successful homeschooling than just academic success. Subtle messages inherent in our cultural paradigm, and too often in our own homes, will undermine our efforts and highest hopes for what Heavenly Father wants our daughters to become. This class will help you identify the attitudes, traditions, and influences in the background that can thwart your efforts as parents if you don’t recognize, guard against, and neutralize them. Learn what is real instead of what is apparent. God’s plan for His daughters is the path to ultimate fulfillment and happiness.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 1:30- 2:30 PM

Misty Foxley

Establish a House of Learning (a Mentor Mom© class)

Misty Foxley
After nearly fifteen years of teaching her own children, Misty has discovered a solid truth that we all discover, and often have a difficult time understanding and accepting. That is--we are limited, and therefore, we cannot give our children a “perfect education.” Still, knowing this, we often see our children's lives reflecting quite the opposite--that of educated, talented, faithful, confident young people and emerging adults. How is this accomplished? Misty believes it is by establishing an all-encompassing learning lifestyle in our homes, not just a “formal time” for educating our children. Children who grow up in this kind of home are literally “learning all the time.” They will naturally progress and will continue progressing throughout their adult lives. Come join Misty as she shares with you a few of the things that her family has done to “establish a house of learning.”
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:00- 2:30 PM

Meet Veteran Moms (Homeschool Beginners' Seminar)

Misty Foxley & Theresa Handy, Barbara Ritter, Denise Ward
This class will be an “open” question and answer session at the conclusion of our Homeschool Beginner’s Seminar. “Veteran” homeschool moms with years of experience will be on hand to speak with new homeschooling parents about specific questions and concerns. This is your chance to meet with moms who have “been there, done that” and can offer you encouragement and advice, point you in a direction you may not have thought of, or even just hold your hand! Bring questions!
Beginners' Wednesday 4:30 - 5:30 PM

John and Cheri Frary

Moving your children toward independEnce

John and Cheri Frary
As homeschooling parents, we know that we need to teach math, reading and other academic subjects. However, before our children leave our homes they also need to be able to cook, clean a toilet, change a tire, pay their bills, and nourish their own testimonies. Learning a strong work ethic seems to go against the worldy teenage messages of today, which seem to center around “have fun, fun, fun.” How do we teach our children the importance of becoming independent (financially, emotionally, spiritually, etc.) in a society that promotes perpetual adolescence?
Friday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Lara Gallagher

Get Organized Phase I - Learn How to Collect, Simplify and Store

Lara Gallagher
The first step to getting organized is finding out what you have so you can then decide how to deal with it effectively. All this STUFF that is constantly moving in and out of our lives can either create contentment or contention. Learn how to simplify the clutter in your physical space and your mind so you have room to create your dreams and fulfill your mission!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Get Organized Phase II - Learn How to Plan

Lara Gallagher
Are you hoping to stumble on happiness or are you determined to make things happen? How will you get what you want out of life if you don't even know what that is? Take a break from your frantic pace of life to chart a course of action. You will be able to accomplish more knowing that you are headed in the right direction and doing the things that matter. It's a simple skill that will make a big difference in every area of your life.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 8:30 - 9:30 AM

Get Organized Phase III - Learn How to Take Action

Lara Gallagher
Pick up the pace without wearing yourself down - We all want to accomplish amazing things in life yet we are also desperate for more time to relax or spend with family and friends. Many of us are homeschooling and running businesses. We're writing books and starting foundations. How do we do all of it without burning out or is it even possible? It's time for you to learn a few simple organizational secrets that will take you from frustrated to free!
Download class handout HERE
Friday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Teach Your Kids to Work Their Little Britches Off

Lara Gallagher
“It's my job to cook, feed, wash, iron, mend, chauffeur, bathe, scrub, clothe, disinfect, organize, and think for my children.” Think again! Everyone wants to feel successful and needed, including your children. Learning to take care of themselves and others when they are young is the best way for them to build confidence and character. If you are doing everything for your children, when are they ever going to learn to take care of themselves and who is going to teach them? Now is the time for you to graduate from Cleaning Lady to Mother, Father, Teacher.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Jennifer Georgia

Math is Beautiful: Learning (yourself) and Inspiring (your child) to Love the Cosmic Language (a Mentor Mom© class)

Jennifer Georgia
Handing a young child a pencil and a paper covered with arithmetic problems is the surest way to put him into a "hatred of math" phase. But what else is there? "The world is number," said Pythagoras. Math is all around us, and the beauty and mystery of the patterns can be grasped by even young children. This class explores the hands-on/real-world/open-ended approach, which we call doing "fun math" at our house. Why teach algebra to four year-olds, and calculus to seven year-olds? Not to make them prodigies, but to open the world to them and stimulate their minds in new and exciting ways.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 1:30 - 2:00 PM

Ultimate proof: SAT, ACT,and AP tests (a Mentor Mom© class)

Jennifer Georgia
SAT, ACT, and AP tests can lead to admission to the college of choice, scholarships, and earning college credit. How do you prepare your child for standardized-testing success, and what is the timeline that should be followed? How early should we start? This class will address the content that is covered in the tests, ways to help your child learn the content, resources that can be used to prepare for the tests, and much more.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 11:00 - 11:30 AM

You Don’t Have to be an Expert! (a Mentor Mom© class)

Jennifer Georgia
How are millions of parents helping their children achieve greater academic success than their traditionally-schooled peers? What do parents have that certified teachers do not? Jennifer Georgia, a fifteen-year veteran of homeschooling, shares five secrets that make all the difference. Want to know the secrets? Come to this class to find out!
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 4:30 - 5:00 PM

Theresa Handy

Forward With Faith: Just Do It! (Homeschool Beginners' Seminar)

Theresa Handy
As a new homeschool parent, you may find yourself asking “Can I really do this? I have a life, a calling and have to do laundry SOMETIME. Can I homeschool, too?” The answer is “Yes, you CAN do this!” This class will provide tips for incorporating your new homeschool into your already busy life. As a seven-year veteran homeschooling mom put it, “Moms are teachers. When we decide that we are going to homeschool our children, we tend to feel inadequate as a teacher. "How can I teach my own child?” What we forget is that we've been teaching our children since they were born. We teach them to walk, talk, love, and serve. Are academics any different? I truly believe that anyone who loves their child and has decided that homeschooling is the path they want to take can do it!” Come learn how you can do it, too!
Download class handout
Beginners' Wednesday 3:30 - 4:30 PM

Meet Veteran Moms (Homeschool Beginners' Seminar)

Theresa Handy & Misty Foxley, Barbara Ritter, Denise Ward
This class will be an “open” question and answer session at the conclusion of our Homeschool Beginner’s Seminar. “Veteran” homeschool moms with years of experience will be on hand to speak with new homeschooling parents about specific questions and concerns. This is your chance to meet with moms who have “been there, done that” and can offer you encouragement and advice, point you in a direction you may not have thought of, or even just hold your hand! Bring questions!
Beginners' Wednesday 3:30 - 5:30 PM

Julie Hansen

Being in the Moment With Your Child (a Mentor Mom© class)

Julie Hansen
Do you ever feel like you will never get things done if you stop to spend time with your children at their every demand? Be inspired by stories of women who have created small and simple traditions of connecting with their children that have had a huge impact. It truly is an art to be present in the moment and capture these moments. This class will supply you with a discussion and test that will help you identify and speak your child’s love language and learning style. By the end, you will understand the importance of doing “mini check-in rituals” that will tell your child, “I see you and love you” while allowing you to have your own time too.

Download class handout HERE
Thursday 4:00 - 4:30 PM

Preschool fit to your homeschool

Julie Hansen & Melissa Orton, Joy Petty
There is a lot of confusing information out there about the “best way” to teach your preschoolers. Do you really need to start with flashcards in the crib? Can you wait until age 9 to begin reading? Are worksheets bad? Is a box of Legos and a library card all you need? What if you envision a “natural, relaxed” approach to teaching your four-year-old, but she is clamoring for “real school” like her older brother? Or, what if your five-year-old sees absolutely no need for reading and you are getting a bit nervous? What does “homeschooling” a preschooler really mean? Come learn about different methods of homeschooling your preschooler, from structured to relaxed, and learn how to tell which might work best for you and your child.
Download class handout HERE
Download Phonics Fish HERE
Download class handout supplement (Hansen) HERE
Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Marty Huie

A Homeschool Built Upon the Rock (Part 1): Laying the Foundation

Marty Huie & Sherry Veach
As homeschool parents, we can sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. Nurturing our own spirituality can sometimes take a back seat to our other responsibilities. But, if we are not taking the time to work on our own foundations, how can we build our home (and homeschool) upon the rock of our Redeemer? Even though we know how vital prayer and scripture study are, how do we give them the attention they deserve in our very busy days? How do we get beyond just “reading” our scriptures and progress to the type of study that can be transformational in our lives? Come and learn how to make your own spiritual foundation strong enough to build your family on.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

Choosing a Teaching Philosophy to Meet Your Educational Goals and Your Child’s Learning Style (Homeschool Beginners' Seminar)

Marty Huie
There are many teaching philosophies that exist in the homeschooling community. Beginners may be confused or simply not be aware that they exist. Defining and explaining each of these philosophies help parents to make informed decisions for their individual families. As a veteran mom explains: “It is imperative to study about educational philosophies before looking at curriculum. These go from unschooling (like John Holt’s Growing Without Schooling movement), Thomas Jefferson Education, the Moore Formula, Montessori, Charlotte Mason, Classical Education (Susan Wise Bauer, The Well-Trained Mind), to more traditional schooling like ABeka provides. By the time you have researched this and know where you want to go with your homeschool, the curriculum question will already be answered.” Come learn more about the various teaching philosophies and how they might work with the learning styles of your children.
Download handout HERE
Beginners' Wednesday 2:30 - 3:30 PM

Dan Hunter

Raising Children with Character

Dan Hunter
The 1828 dictionary defines character as “the peculiar qualities, impressed by nature or habit on a person, which distinguish him from others”. Homeschool parents have the opportunity to teach their children how to prepare to accomplish that mission which they were sent to earth to perform. They have a greater opportunity to be self-motivated and not be “like everybody else”, to be a thinker and a leader and not a follower (or, as Oliver DeMille puts it, “to receive a conveyer belt education”). In this class we will discuss the principles that will bring about this opportunity for our children.
Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Living History Series History of Books (Vendor Workshop)

Dan Hunter
There was a time when history ruled the world. Sages, scientists, generals, artists, kings and merchants used history as the central textbook, and made decisions based on the lessons of the past. Investors looked to the past for guidance, as did statesmen and artisans. Stories are the foundation of history, the foundation upon which all societies base their view of the world and with which they face and choose the future, and God is the central figure. No honest reader of history can doubt that the great men and women of history were influenced by their religions, beliefs and relationships with God. The purpose of Living History is to provide parents a history text in story form (the method used by the Savior in His teachings) from which to teach their children, blending the secular and religious together, and putting God back into history. Students come to better understand their world and their place in it when history is taught in this format.
Thursday 2:45 - 3:15 PM

Jan-Erik Jones

Why a liberal arts education? What does it matter anyway?

Jan-Erik Jones
What is a "liberal arts education" and why is it important? This presentation will be a brief history of the liberal arts and the purpose of a liberal arts education in the Western world. We will examine the need to return to the content and purpose of a liberal arts education in the 21st century.
Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Tim Knudson

Starry, Starry Nights (evening activity)

Tim Knudson
This evening activity will involve looking at several objects through a telescope. Come join us as we examine the rings of Saturn and a nice crescent moon. (Sorry, Jupiter is not up until well after midnight.) Dr. Knudson will also provide some information about a number of great online resources for the amateur astronomer.
Thursday 9:30 - 10:30 PM

Lorelle McPhee

How do i apply the "five enviornments of Mentoring" when its just my family?

Lorelle McPhee
Living in a small community in southwest Wyoming, where travel is hampered by winter storms and icy roads that can occur anytime between October and May, Lorelle has had to search for other experiences for her children than the ones provided by the typical TJEd organizations. Using the scriptures, and classic literature she gives examples and ideas of how to implement the “Five Environments of Mentoring” in your family culture. She will explain how to get off the “Leadership Education conveyor belt,” find the principles behind the environments and apply them to your own unique situation. Often along the way, parents are hampered by doubts and stresses that their children are getting what they need to fulfill their missions here on this earth, especially when they hear all the wonderful things everyone else is doing. Lorelle will explain how to feel assured that the Lord has given you everything you need to become a successful educated family, and that He can take your own offering of two fishes and five loaves of bread to make an educational feast.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Lessons I’ve Learned from Lehi: How to Instill and Maintain a Great Core Phase Through Family Rhythms and Culture (a Mentor Mom© class)

Lorelle McPhee
The story of Lehi and his family traveling in the wilderness continues to be a great guide to Lorelle as she travels with her own family through the wilds of this world in search of the promised land. She will explain how Lehi and his family have influenced her family culture and rhythm. She will coach others on the Core Phase, explaining how family culture and rhythms give form for educational experiences in the family and allow everyone in their respective phases to have their needs met.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 10:15 - 10:45 AM

Tina Nokes

College Dual-Enrollment through High School: The Best Kept Secret (a Mentor Mom© class)

Tina Nokes
Would your youth benefit from lower college admissions requirements? Would you like to save thousands on college tuition? Would you like to avoid the dreaded ACT/SAT tests? I’ll share these and 7 other secrets that many don’t know about dual-enrolling in college during high school. In this class you’ll also learn how to qualify for dual-enrollment, success tips for starting college early, and how to mentor your student through the process.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Raising Up American Youth Statesmen: A How-to (a Mentor Mom© class)

Tina Nokes
President Kimball stated that “we must develop (our) precious youth to know the art of statesmanship.” This class will show you how to introduce your youth and other youth in your area to the principles of leadership, public speaking, and civics by holding your own American Youth Statesman class. You’ll get to watch as youth conduct a meeting according to Robert’s Rules of Order, share with you tips on good public speaking, and let you peek at our blog that displays highlights of the past year. You’ll receive a list of resources, class outlines, handouts, and support materials to get you started. Class begins with the bang of a gavel, are you in your seat?
Download class handout HERE
Friday 9:45- 10:15 AM

A Young Man Prepared

Tina Nokes & Sherry Veach
LDS boys have been called to serve a unique mission in the world. How do we as homeschooling parents prepare them for those responsibilities, especially if they aren’t really motivated to learn them? In this class you’ll find out how to not only survive homeschooling boys, but love the adventure as they learn, progress, and eventually step into adult responsibilities. You’ll learn how to better understand boys, what makes them tick, and how to tap into their energy. Specific topics will include creating an optimal learning environment, teaching techniques that work with boys, mentoring and motivating boys into adulthood, and preparing boys for college, serving missions, future employment, and stepping into future family roles.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 2:45- 3:45 PM

Melissa Orton

Preschool to fit your homeschool

Melissa Orton & Julie Hansen, Joy Petty
There is a lot of confusing information out there about the “best way” to teach your preschoolers. Do you really need to start with flashcards in the crib? Can you wait until age 9 to begin reading? Are worksheets bad? Is a box of Legos and a library card all you need? What if you envision a “natural, relaxed” approach to teaching your four-year-old, but she is clamoring for “real school” like her older brother? Or, what if your five-year-old sees absolutely no need for reading and you are getting a bit nervous? What does “homeschooling” a preschooler really mean? Come learn about different methods of homeschooling your preschooler, from structured to relaxed, and learn how to tell which might work best for you and your child.
Download class handout HERE
Download Phonics Fish HERE
Download class handout supplement (Hansen) HERE
Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Joy Petty

Preschool to fit Your homeSchool

Joy Petty & Julie Hansen, Melissa Orton
There is a lot of confusing information out there about the “best way” to teach your preschoolers. Do you really need to start with flashcards in the crib? Can you wait until age 9 to begin reading? Are worksheets bad? Is a box of Legos and a library card all you need? What if you envision a “natural, relaxed” approach to teaching your four-year-old, but she is clamoring for “real school” like her older brother? Or, what if your five-year-old sees absolutely no need for reading and you are getting a bit nervous? What does “homeschooling” a preschooler really mean? Come learn about different methods of homeschooling your preschooler, from structured to relaxed, and learn how to tell which might work best for you and your child.
Download class handout HERE
Download Phonics Fish HERE
Download class handout supplement (Hansen) HERE
Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Barbara Ritter

Homeschooling Through trials

Barbara Ritter & Denise Ward, Dana Wood
We all have trials in our lives, and in our homeschools. Come listen to three veteran homeschool moms and learn what did and didn’t help when dealing with a variety of challenges (including, but not limited to: pregnancy difficulties, epidemics at home, rebellious teens, long-term illness of mom or dad, military deployment, multiple moves, unemployment.) With the Lord’s help we can work (and homeschool) through these things. Let’s discuss how.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

In the Beginning: Creating a Spiritually Guided Homeschool (Homeschool Beginner’s Seminar)

Barbara Ritter
Most new homeschool parents have many questions about how to start this sometimes intimidating journey. The best answer is to start under the direction of the Lord. He will help you with setting goals, making decisions and choosing paths that are correct for your children. As one veteran mom put it, “By taking this [homeschooling] on yourself, you will be in control of what they learn, how they learn it, in what manner they are taught, who they are taught by, what kind of socializing they will have, when they learn something, the spirit in which they are taught, etc. It is, for me, a wonderful opportunity though, for the stars are the limit, and you can follow the Spirit for each one of your children and give to them what they each need personally to prepare for their adult lives and to have the most beautiful and ideal childhood in which to build their lives on.” In this class, we will also discuss options and decisions that have worked for other families that you can take to the Lord.
Download class handout HERE.
Wednesday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Meet Veteran Homeschool Moms (Beginner's Seminar)

Barbara Ritter & Theresa Handy, Misty Foxley, Denise Ward
This class will be an “open” question and answer session at the conclusion of our Homeschool Beginner’s Seminar. “Veteran” homeschool moms with years of experience will be on hand to speak with new homeschooling parents about specific questions and concerns. This is your chance to meet with moms who have “been there, done that” and can offer you encouragement and advice, point you in a direction you may not have thought of, or even just hold your hand! Bring questions!
Wednesday 4:30 - 5:30 PM

Ariel Rodriguez

The S-Word: Socialization and its implications for Home educators

Ariel Rodriguez
Let me guess... You know people who say they homeschool their children because of the socialization that goes on in the public schools. You also know people who say they would never homeschool their children because of the socialization that goes on in public schools. Both groups can't be right, can they? Come learn what research in the field of developmental psychology suggests about how healthy socialization is best facilitated, as well as the lessons home educators can learn from this research. Even if you're pretty sure you know how to socialize your children, come gain further insights and perspective, or come learn how scientific research can help you talk to your non-homeschool friends and family about the S-word!
Friday 9:45- 10:45 AM

Ann Sharp

Building a house of Readers

Ann Sharp
What is essential to establish a house of readers? What does a good reading program look like? Are there some programs more effective than others? How will I know? What do I look for in a reading program if my child is struggling? Where can I turn? What or who can I trust? What type of teaching techniques can I use that will work? Come and benefit from Dr. Sharp’s extensive experience in dealing with these questions and more.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

How to Prevent/help a struggling reader

Ann Sharp
Learning how to read requires a complicated process that good readers learn with ease and often even unconsciously; but for a struggling reader, the same learning process can be more like torture, sometimes eluding them completely and leaving in its wake a real dislike for reading. Why do some struggle to learn and others do not? How can you prevent your children from suffering as a poor reader? Come learn what predicts reading failure and how you can prevent it. You will come away with not only greater understanding, but with games and activities that can help your struggling reader. Note: Although this class will focus primarily on the beginning reader, it will have valuable information for anyone facing the problems of dyslexia.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

I'm doing all I can, and Yet My Child Still Struggles

Ann Sharp & Melissa Coombs
An educational researcher and a homeschool parent with dyslexic children have teamed together in order to bring you research-based instruction and practical hands-on help for your struggling reader. You will learn what processes are necessary and how they orchestrate together to create the symphonic results we call reading. You will also learn, metaphorically speaking, what to do when parts of the orchestra can’t play the instruments or forget to show up. You will learn strategies to help conquer reading problems, and learn how to find hope in the journey. As the scriptures remind us: “I do know that whosoever shall put their trust in God shall be supported in their trials, and their troubles, and their afflictions, and shall be lifted up at the last day.” (Alma 36:3)
Download class handout HERE
Friday 8:30 - 9:30 AM

Reading Horizons (Vendor Workshop)

Ann Sharp
Explicitly teaching the rules of phonics has been shown over and over again by reading scientists to be the most effective way to teach children how to read. Come and learn about a wonderful product that creatively teaches the basic rules of phonics, which effectively provide solid strategies for reading words, and unwittingly improves spelling.
Thursday 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM

Michael Strauss

Genealogy: A Journey of a Lifetime

Michael Strauss
Travel back in time to distant lands and historical events with your ancestors. This class will guide you through the search process to discover your ancestry. Along the way, you'll learn through hands-on examples and the research process how to dig deeper into your family's past. This class is geared for both students and adults who want to gain a better knowledge about their family past and have fun doing primary research. You'll also learn to develop strategies to accomplish your objectives, evaluate the results, and share your information with others.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

President Rodney Smith

Working together to Offer your son or daughter the opportunity to attend SVU: Presentation and Q&A

President Rodney Smith
What is an LDS-liberal arts education? Is SVU affordable? Would my homeschooled son or daughter do well in SVU's environment? If you want to find out more about Southern Virginia University and the opportunities it can provide to your college-bound son or daughter, you won't want to miss this informative presentation and Q&A session. Along with President Smith, you will also hear from Emilie Anne Davis (Director of Housing), Dr. Jan-Erik Jones (Assistant Professor of Philosophy), Dr. Richard Stuart (Institute Director), Jody Mask (Dean of Admissions), and Zachary Foxley (Southern Virginia University student). They will be able to answer all your questions and give you a real taste of the tremendous opportunities and experiences available at SVU for your homeschooled student.
Friday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Yvonne Swinson

Homeschooling the Real Mom Way - Polar Star (Vendor Workshop)

Yvonne Swinson
Sometimes we feel intense pressure to be the "perfect" mom, especially as we homeschool our families. The world's eyes always seem to be upon us, and perhaps we struggle with a sense of inadequacy. This workshop will talk about simplifying, prioritizing, and letting ourselves be "real" moms as we educate our children at home. It will include information on Polar Star's "Real Mom's Guides" and how to make the scriptures the central focus of our homeschool day.
Thursday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

Earl Taylor

The Making of America (Full-day Pre-Conference Seminar on May 27th)

Earl Taylor
See seminar page for full description!
Wednesday Full-Day Seminar 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM

The 28 Principles of Liberty —A Miracle that Changed the World (Vendor Workshop)

Earl Taylor
Learn about the principles discovered by America’s Founders that formed the basis of freedom and liberty in this nation. These inspired concepts made it possible for this nation to progress farther in 200 years than mankind had gone in over 5000 years before. The Founders said these principles will do the same for any nation that wants freedom and liberty.
Thursday 2:00 - 2:30 PM

Sherry Veach

A homeschool Built UPon the Rock: Laying the Foundation (Part 1)

Shery Veach & Marty Huie
As homeschool parents, we can sometimes feel like the weight of the world is on our shoulders. Nurturing our own spirituality can sometimes take a back seat to our other responsibilities. But, if we are not taking the time to work on our own foundations, how can we build our home (and homeschool) upon the rock of our Redeemer? Even though we know how vital prayer and scripture study are, how do we give them the attention they deserve in our very busy days? How do we get beyond just “reading” our scriptures and progress to the type of study that can be transformational in our lives? Come and learn how to make your own spiritual foundation strong enough to build your family on.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

A Homeschool Built Upon the Rock: Building on the Foundation (part 2)

Sherry Veach & Denise Ward
Even after we have begun laying a strong spiritual foundation in ourselves, our work is not finished. How do we then let what we are learning in our own study, guide our homeschools? Can we really learn to trust in the Lord enough to follow his plan for our children, even if it goes against what “makes sense” to us? How do we “fit in” everything we think our children need to know before they leave our homes? What if we forget something? And most importantly, how do we make sure that we are teaching our children how to build their own foundations? This class will cover the different aspects of following the direction of the Spirit in our homeschools, and helping our children be able to say “I have learned for myself.” (JSH 1:20)
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

A Young Man Prepared

Sherry Veach & Tina Nokes
LDS boys have been called to serve a unique mission in the world. How do we as homeschooling parents prepare them for those responsibilities, especially if they aren’t really motivated to learn them? In this class you’ll find out how to not only survive homeschooling boys, but love the adventure as they learn, progress, and eventually step into adult responsibilities. You’ll learn how to better understand boys, what makes them tick, and how to tap into their energy. Specific topics will include creating an optimal learning environment, teaching techniques that work with boys, mentoring and motivating boys into adulthood, and preparing boys for college, serving missions, future employment, and stepping into future family roles.
Download class handout HERE
Friday 2:45 - 3:45 PM

Denise Ward

A Homeschool Built Upon the Rock: Building on the Foundation (part 2)

Denise Ward & Sherry Veach
Even after we have begun laying a strong spiritual foundation in ourselves, our work is not finished. How do we then let what we are learning in our own study guide our homeschools? Can we really learn to trust in the Lord enough to follow his plan for our children, even if it goes against what “makes sense” to us? How do we “fit in” everything we think our children need to know before they leave our homes? What if we forget something? And most importantly, how do we make sure that we are teaching our children how to build their own foundations? This class will cover the different aspects of following the direction of the Spirit in our homeschools, and helping our children be able to say “I have learned for myself.” (JSH 1:20)
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Homeschooling DURING Trials

Denise Ward & Barbara Ritter, Dana Wood
We all have trials in our lives, and in our homeschools. Come listen to three veteran homeschool moms and learn what did and didn’t help when dealing with a variety of challenges (including, but not limited to: pregnancy difficulties, epidemics at home, rebellious teens, long-term illness of mom or dad, military deployment, multiple moves, unemployment.) With the Lord’s help we can work (and homeschool) through these things. Let’s discuss how.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Meet Veteran Moms (Homeschooling Beginner's Seminar)

Denise Ward & Theresa Handy, Misty Foxley, Barbara Ritter
This class will be an “open” question and answer session at the conclusion of our Homeschool Beginner’s Seminar. “Veteran” homeschool moms with years of experience will be on hand to speak with new homeschooling parents about specific questions and concerns. This is your chance to meet with moms who have “been there, done that” and can offer you encouragement and advice, point you in a direction you may not have thought of, or even just hold your hand! Bring questions!
Beginners' Wednesday 4:30 - 5:30 PM

Brad Wilcox

Bringing Down the Walls: Improving Communication in the Family

Brad Wilcox
Just as the Berlin Wall came down, we can bring down the walls that sometimes are built between children and parents. Communication walls are built for the same reasons as the Berlin Wall: distrust, fear, misunderstanding, and insecurity. It doesn't have to be that way. Let's take the wall down one brick at a time.
Friday 1:30 - 2:30 PM

Feed the Need to Read

Brad Wilcox
Pizza? Coupons? Stickers? Cash? Is that the level of motivation to which we have to stoop in order to get kids to read? No. External motivators don't do the trick for very long. Let's discuss how to create an internal motivation for reading that lasts. Reading can be its own reward.
Friday 9:45 - 10:45 AM

What Do You Get for Being a Mormon? A Better Education (Opening Keynote)

Brad Wilcox
Latter-day Saints are a better educated group than others. It's a fact. But why? What is it about our history, culture, and doctrine that set our views of education apart? Elder Ballard included education as being one of the fruits of Church membership. Truly we are blessed to have a legacy of learning.
Thursday 8:30 - 9:30 AM

If You can Laugh at it You Can Live with it

Brad Wilcox
Life is serious business and trials and challenges can be real and intense. Still, we can't allow ourselves to miss the joy to be found along the way. Keeping a sense of humor can help us keep perspective, build positive relationships with others, and deal with problems and the stress they create. Everyone can develop a better sense of humor and follow the scriptural command to be of good cheer.
Friday 4:00 - 5:00 PM

Russell Wilcox

Writing - the neglected R! (Vendor Workshop)

Russell Wilcox
Although writing is recognized as one of the three R's, an essential element in education, it is often neglected. Nothing motivates student writing more than publishing. Mightyauthors.com is a student-friendly web site to motivate mighty writing through easy, affordable, and speedy publishing opportunities.
Thursday 1:30 - 2:00 PM

Katie Wilson

Katie Wilson
Do you know the difference between the Pantheon and the Parthenon? What is a “quark?” Can you tell me who painted “Christina’s World?” What was the significance of the “crash of ’29?” Which countries made up the former U.S.S.R.? Do you know these bits of our cultural history? Do your children know them? Sadly, our society is moving away from teaching children a foundational base of knowledge from which to build. Fortunately, E.D. Hirsch (author of “The Core Knowledge Series”) has published a book, “The New First Dictionary of Cultural Literacy,” which contains a “common core of knowledge” that all children (and adults!) should be familiar with. But learning facts doesn’t have to be boring!!! Come to this class and learn how to hold “Cultural Literacy Bees,” using Dr. Hirsch’s book as a primary resource. These “Bees” inspire our children to strengthen their knowledge base in everything from literature to architecture to world geography while having tons of fun!
Download class handout HERE
Download Sample Flashcards for "Music, Art & Architecture" HERE!
Download Sample Jeopardy Game for "Mythology" HERE!
Friday 9:00 - 9:30 AM

Dana Wood

Homeschooling through Trials

Dana Wood & Barbara Ritter, Denise Ward
We all have trials in our lives, and in our homeschools. Come listen to three veteran homeschool moms and learn what did and didn’t help when dealing with a variety of challenges (including, but not limited to: pregnancy difficulties, epidemics at home, rebellious teens, long-term illness of mom or dad, military deployment, multiple moves, unemployment.) With the Lord’s help we can work (and homeschool) through these things. Let’s discuss how.
Download class handout HERE
Thursday 1:30 - 2:30 PM