2008
2008 Conference Photo Gallery
2008 Youth Class Schedule
TJEd for Latter-day Saints Youth Conference
- Wednesday, May 28
| Date | Time | Class | Speaker | Room |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WEDNESDAY | 7:00 - 7:45 | Registration for TJEd Seminars in Beach Club Lobby | ||
| 8:00 - 8:50 | An Introduction to Thomas Jefferson Education | Kyle Roberts | Captain B | |
| 8:50 - 9:35 | Fulfilling Your Mission | Zach Foxley | Captain B | |
| 9:45 - 10:15 | Entrepreneurship | Gregory van Duyse | Captain B | |
| 10:15 - 11:00 | TJEd Your Way to (Any) College | Dana Wood & the Wood Boys | Captain B | |
| 11:10 - 11:55 | Finding and Nurturing Your Inner Mathematician | Elizabeth Merrell | Captain B | |
| 12:00 - 1:30 | Lunch Break | |||
| 1:30 - 2:15 | Wanna Be Smart? Get Creative! | Kyla Thomas | Captain B | |
| 2:15 - 3:00 | Preparing to Be Mentored | Dr. Julie Earley | Captain B | |
| 3:10 - 3:40 | Political Simulation | Captain B | ||
| Article Discussion | Captain B | |||
| 3:50 - 4:20 | Popsicle Simulation | Captain B | ||
| Politcal Simulation | Captain B | |||
| 4:20 - 4:35 | Debriefing | Captain B | ||
| 4:35 - 5:00 | Snack on the Beach / Visiting | Captain B | ||
| 5:00 - 5:30 | How Does This Really Work? Panel Discussion | Captain B | ||
| 7:00 - 10:00 | Evening Entertainment: Phun with Physics | Dr. David Wright | Captain C | |
LDSEHE Youth Conference - Wednesday, May 28
Any or all families may choose to spend an extra day together at the beach on Saturday, May 31.
2008 Youth Class Descriptions
Check out our 2008 classes...
See something you'd like to listen to? Our audio recordings are available through mail order!
Angela Baker
Take Off the Mask-Put on the Crown: Girls Class
Angela Baker
As young women, you are part of an incredible army of youth. You have a mighty work to do in your life. You know this. You feel it and you want to prepare now. Your preparation must be an individual and personal journey. It will be challenging and sometimes very hard, but it will also be joyful. No one can make this journey for you. But you are up to the task. You can do it. The world will send counterfeit, confusing ideas about who you are and what you need to do. Following them will lead you to wear a mask or rather a fake representation of who you are. But you were created to wear an amazingly beautiful crown of royal heritage. This is who you are. To discover this crown and learn to wear it you must make your journey with a true compass. Come, learn what this compass is and how you can successfully chart your preparatory journey so that you can be and do all you were created to be and do.
Thursday 3:30 - 4:10 PM
Dr. Andrew Behnke
Financial Smarts for Winning: Straight Talk on your Financial Future
Dr. Andrew Behnke
This workshop will help you prepare for a future of winning financially. Topics include: financial myth-busting, buying smart, credit cards/debit cards, investing smart, professional degrees, starting a budget, avoiding debt, and giving back. We will practice the concepts that will help you gain financial freedom and change the world. You will also receive links to various sites to help you start winning financially. It’s never too early.
Thursday 11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Living in a Spiky World: Do You Have the Skills to Compete Globally?
Dr. Andrew Behnke
This isn’t the economy your parents grew up with! Whether you are planning to be a “Statesman,” a “Scientist,” or part of the “New Creative Class,” you will need entrepreneurial skills that will help you network across the globe. In this workshop, we will look at Freeman’s “Ten World Flateners” and the 21st century skills you will need to get ahead and stay ahead in the global economy. You will also receive links to all kinds of sites to help you get started as an entrepreneur.
Thursday 4:20 - 5:00 PM
Michelle Carbee
Book Discussion: The Great Brain
Michelle Carbee
There will be two book discussions this year (occurring at the same time) so you will have to take your pick! In this session, we will be discussing the book The Great Brain by John Fitzgerald. This book is about the life of a boy living in southern Utah at the turn of the 20th century…a non-Mormon living in a Mormon world. The true hero of the book is the boy’s older brother, “The Great Brain,” known for his abilities to solve any problem, especially if there is money in it for him! You will want to read the book (available at libraries, bookstores and on-line stores) before you arrive at the conference so that we can move right into an energetic dialogue!
Friday 10:20 - 11:00 AM
Dr. Julie Earley
Preparing to be Mentored 
Dr. Julie Earley
Mentors are vital to a great leadership education and yet they seem so hard to find today. It might be that we aren't looking hard enough…or we aren’t famous enough…or it might be that we aren't ready enough. To paraphrase a Buddhist maxim: “when the student is ready the mentor appears.” So what are you doing to be ready, how are you preparing to be mentored by a great mentor?
TJEd Youth Wednesday 2:15 - 3:00 PM
Zach Foxley
Fulfilling Your Mission: Principles You Can Live by that will Help You Fulfill Your Mission Every Day
Zach Foxley
All of us have an important role to fulfill in life. We may have even heard presentations about finding your mission or purpose in life. But what does this really mean? How do you know when you’ve found your unique purpose in life, and how do you actually go about fulfilling it? These questions can be answered (through diligent searching and honest prayer) by finding out who we really are. Our Heavenly Father has given us a royal heritage. He wants us to learn to be like him, in order to qualify as heirs to His throne. Our choices will determine whether we earn this inheritance or follow other paths. Come learn how discover your own royal birthright, and the steps you need to take to live up to it.
TJEd Youth Wednesday 8:50 - 9:35 AM
Dr. Andrew Groft
Keynote: A Renaissance of Kings Thursday
Dr. Andrew Groft
Thursday 8:45 - 9:30 AM
Moral Courage for Future Husbands and Fathers
Dr. Andrew Groft
The young men of the church aren’t mere teenagers, but princes who were born to be kings. Learn five timeless truths that have been twisted by the masses and rulers alike to justify laziness, greed and war. And learn how those truths, once rightly understood, become weapons in the only battle that really matters—the battle for men’s souls.
Thursday 3:30 - 4:10 PM
Chad Hymas
Closing Keynote: Who Needs Legs…When You’ve Got Wings
Chad Hymas
Friday 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Dr. Glenn Kimber
What Does it Mean to be a Chosen Generation?
Dr. Glenn Kimber
Time and time again the youth of today are told that they are the chosen generation. Have you ever wondered what they are chosen for? What are they chosen to do? And what makes them unique from other youth of this dispensation? Will they succeed in their mission? How will they know when they have completed their mission. Dr. Kimber will answer these questions in his presentation called "Today's Youth in Tomorrow's World – Youth in Prophecy."
Friday 3:10- 3:50 PM
Elizabeth Merrell
Finding and Nurturing Your Inner Mathematician
Elizabeth Merrell
Come play math games and puzzles to recharge your interest in mathematics! As a TJED youth do you wonder if math is a part of your mission? Though many youth claim that math is not integral in their life mission, Elizabeth Merrell challenges this assumption, claiming that significant math study adds power to any leadership role. Math opens doors of opportunity and increases logical reasoning skills. Real statesmen and stateswomen must have a strong understanding of numeracy and logic. Just as literacy is the ability to read, write and understand words, numeracy is the term given to a solid understanding of numeric values and the ability to manipulate and use numbers in effective problem solving. Come find the innner mathematician in you!
TJEd Youth Wednesday 11:10AM- 11:55PM
Kyle Roberts
An Introduction to Thomas Jefferson Education
Kyle Roberts
What is A Thomas Jefferson Education? Well, it’s not an education where you learn all about Thomas Jefferson, but it is a model of education based on the same kind of education he received. It will help you have the wisdom, intelligence, understanding, depth, influence, and overall genius as Thomas Jefferson did. This class will give you an introduction as to how it works and what it can mean for you.
TJEd Youth Wednesday 8:00-8:50 AM
How Do I Do It? Principles You Can Live by That Will Help You Fulfill Mission Every Day
Kyle Roberts
Are you tired of hearing that you need to find your mission? Do you know what mission is but are struggling with how to do it? Do you find yourself wondering how you actually fulfill your mission? This class will teach you powerful principles you can use that will help you both find your mission, and fulfill it every day.
Friday 8:35 - 9:20 AM
Robin Schneider
Public Speaking 101
Robin Schneider
As an LDS youth, you've probably been asked to speak in public--no doubt, more often than you'd like. How did you feel last time you did that: scared? embarrassed? incompetent? How all about all of the above? If giving a talk causes you to quake in your boots, you need to attend this workshop. We will cover topics like dealing with anxiety, deciding what you're going to say, holding your audience's interest, and delivering your address properly.
Thursday 11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Earl Taylor
Statesmen in the 21st Century: "Honest Men and Wise Men Should Be Sought For Diligently"
Earl Taylor
Thomas Jefferson said future leaders must come from the “natural aristocracy.” America’s Founding Fathers trained themselves, while in their youth, to be part of this special group. Young people who want to be the statesmen of tomorrow must do the same. This presentation will describe what kind of individuals the Founders became, so that today’s youth can become like them and be ready to help America fulfill its manifest destiny.
Friday 11:10 AM- 12:00 PM
Kyla Thomas
Wanna Be Smart? Get Creative!
Kyla Thomas
Learning doesn’t have to be run-of-the-mill or boring. One way to spice up your education is to incorporate the arts into your schedule The arts improve mental clarity and even enhance the ability of the sides of your brain to connect. If you apply your creativity and imagination to your studies, you can actually learn more than you originally intended. Kyla will teach you how to incorporate the arts into your education and show you how to learn…creatively!
TJEd Youth Wednesday 1:30 - 2:15 PM
Gregory van Duyse
Entrepreneurship
Gregory van Duyse
Are you planning to accomplish something important during your life? Like maybe raising a family, building a business/career or even changing the world? That is what's called "entrepreneurship." In a way, LIFE is like a business. You have to take the resources around you and try to produce positive results. So don’t think this class is only about making money...it’s about making things work out around you. Come and see how you can take ideas that are used to run a business and apply them to your life.
TJEd Youth Wednesday 9:45-10:15AM
Obstacles Could Not Stop Me
Gregory van Duyse
Thursday 10:25 - 11:10 AM
Dana Wood
TJEd Your Way to (Any) College
Dana Wood, Spencer Wood, Matt Wood and Andrew Wood
So you love your TJed high school experience… How do you translate that into getting into college? Into a decent job out of high school? This class will let you see how these young adults have used their TJed education to find and follow their own path of talents and abilities.
TJEd Youth Wednesday 10:15 - 11:00 AM
Book Discussion: The Alliance and The Giver
Dana Wood
There will be two book discussions this year (occurring at the same time) so you will have to take your pick! In this session, we will be discussion 2 books (for those who are interested in a challenge!). We will be comparing and contrasting The Alliance by Gerald Lund and The Giver by Lois Lowry. Both of these books deal with the concepts of self, agency and freedom, but are written from different perspectives. We encourage you to read the books before the conference so we can have an energetic and informed dialogue! The Giver is widely available in bookstores, libraries and on-line stores. The Alliance may be more difficult to locate in libraries, but it is available from several on-line retailers, including deseretbook.com and amazon.com.
Friday 10:20 - 11:00 AM
Dr. David Wright
Evening Entertainment: Phun with Physics
Dr. David Wright
You won’t want to miss this physics magic show. But unlike a regular magic show, Dr. Wright will explain why it all works. There will be clouds of smoke, cinder blocks, sledge hammers, flying eggs and toilet paper. It’s spinning, splatting, squeaking, bouncing and a whole lot more. You may have the chance to pull the table cloth out from underneath the dishes, or be vacuum packed. Come enjoy physics as you have never seen it!
Wednesday 7:00 - 10:00 PM
Science and Religion
Dr. David Wright
We’ll discuss everything from the role of faith in science to the infinite nature of the universe. From Moses to Einstein, we’ll examine the how and why of our existence. We’ll also use magnets, raw eggs, and bicycle wheels along the way to help us understand this relationship between science and religion. Parents are invited to attend this class. Parents are also invited to attend this class.
Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
Panel Discussion
Panel Discussion: How Does This Really Work?
Panel
Have you wondered if you are doing TJed right? How do you keep track of what you are learning? How do you decide what you want to study? This panel will give you the opportunity to find out how TJed has worked for other teens. Each of them has done high school a little differently, yet they have all been actively working towards their individual goals of making their education work for them. Some have pursued art, others are into music, and others have a particular interest in history… Where do your studies fit in the picture? Come find out how you can make TJed work for YOU.
TJEd Youth Wednesday 5:00-5:30 PM
Panel Discussion: Navigating the College Admissions Channels
Zach Foxley, Karen Thomas, Kyla Thomas, Cecelia Ward, Rebecca Watson
Moving from high school to college is a huge transition, and one that requires a lot of planning and preparation. You probably have a lot of questions: “When should I start preparing?” “How do I best prepare?” and even “WHY should I prepare?” Our panelists range from students preparing for college now, to students who have successfully entered college and the parents who have helped them get there! They will answer the most important questions facing you, including “What classes do I need to take?,” “How do I prepare a transcript or portfolio?,” “What about the SAT/ACT?,” and more. This class is a must for every homeschool student because as we know, “if ye are prepared, ye shall not fear.” (D&C 38:30) Parents are also invited to attend this class.
Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
2008 Youth Education Conference
Want to listen to the 2008 Youth Education Conference? You can order CDs here.
Announcing the 6th Annual LDSEHE Youth Education Conference (for ages 12-18)! If you’ve attended before, you know that great things are in store for you again. If you’ve never attended…what are you waiting for? With outstanding teachers, interesting classes, and lots of fun, this conference is sure to be a highlight of your summer.
Prepare to be inspired by great teachers, challenged by new concepts, and stretched by new insights as you learn more about your unique mission in life, and how to fulfill it. The LDSEHE Youth Education Conference brings together great minds from all over the United States to inspire your generation of home schooled youth.
But it’s not just about classes. There’s also our annual Talent Show and Display Showcase—your chance to strut your stuff. In addition, many activities are planned throughout the days, to keep you energized, while still giving you plenty of time to meet and mingle with other home-schooled youth. After all, making and renewing friendships is one of the great things about this conference—we bet you’ll leave with new friends from all across the country.
- Make friends from all over the Eastern United States
- More than 20 interesting classes
- 12 outstanding and entertaining LDS educational speakers
- Outdoor activities, games and book discussions
- Dance, talent show and more...
- Special family rates
- Participate in lively book discussions
- Need another reason? How about... the beach!
The price for the Youth Conference is $45. Also, be sure to pick up your LDSEHE Youth Conference shirts.
The LDSEHE Youth Home Education Conference—you have to experience it to understand what all the excitement is about. Come see for yourself—plan to bring a great attitude and leave with a wonderful experience!
 “Set your mind to it, and you can accomplish anything.” Chad Hymas is a nationally recognized speaker, entrepreneur, wheelchair athlete, and Latter-day Saint husband and father. His story will inspire you. |
 Dr. Andrew Groft A popular speaker and teacher from George Wythe College, Dr. Groft is guaranteed to make you laugh! |
 Dr. Glenn Kimber One of our most popular youth speakers, Dr. Kimber, is back again—teaching about your role in preparing for the Second Coming! |
For Mutual aged youth--you must be graduated from Primary to attend.
Important Notice: All youth registered for the LDSEHE Youth Conference must have a parent who is registered for the LDSEHE Conference present.
2008 Youth Speakers
We thank our our 2008 speakers!
Audio recordings of all classes available through mail order
2008 Keynote Speakers
 Dr. Andrew Groft of George Wythe College |
 Chad Hymas of Chad Hymas Communication |
Youth Speakers
Youth Panel Members
 Zach Foxley |
 Karen Thomas |
 Kyla Thomas |
 Cecelia Ward |
 Rebecca Watson |
Angela Baker
Angela Baker knows how to speak to the young women--she has young women daughters herself. She knows what you are facing in this world and knows what you are meant to be. She is ready to inspire you to walk past those worldly masks and take up, instead, your divine heritage.
Angela Baker is the mother of seven children, ages 2-18. She and her husband Roger have home schooled their children for 12 years, the last 6 of which have been strongly influenced by the principles of Thomas Jefferson Education. She holds a Masters Degree in education from GWC; and a Bachelor’s in Family Science from BYU. The Bakers live in Utah with an assortment of animals, including goats, chickens and a pig.
Classes
Girls Class - Thursday 3:30 - 4:10 PM
Andrew Behnke
If you’d like to get a good introduction to the global economy of today’s world, and if you would like to find out where it may take you in tomorrow’s world, Andrew is here to present two great classes, tailored especially for the next generation.
Andrew O. Behnke, PhD, is assistant professor of human development and an extension parent specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. He holds master’s and doctoral degrees in family studies from Utah State University and Purdue University. He conducts applied research in many areas, including academic achievement among Latino youth, parent involvement in academics, and family and community partnerships. He is married to his best friend and has three adventuresome boys and one little princess of a daughter.
Classes
Financial Smarts for Winning: Straight Talk on your Financial Future - Thursday 11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Living in a Spiky World: Do You Have the Skills to Compete Globally? - Thursday 4:20 - 5:00 PM
Michelle Carbee
Ever wondered what it would be like to live with a genius? Read The Great Brain and come ready to participate in a lively discussion!
Michelle and her husband Todd have been homeschooling their two boys, Chase (17) and Bryce (15) since they were born. This year they have added homeschooling their niece, Brooke, age 11, to their routine as she came to live with them in September. Michelle has been active in homeschooling by organizing and running group activities and classes for the past 8+ years.
Classes
Book Discussion: The Great Brain - Friday 10:20 - 11:00 AM
Dr. Julie Earley
Dr. Early is one of those few scholars in her generation who was homeschooled herself. She’s flying here from Utah to speak in the TJEd for Latter-day Saints Youth Seminar to share her ideas with you about how to prepare yourself to be mentored, and how to find the finest mentors.
Dr. Julie Earley holds Masters and Doctorate degrees in Education. Currently, she is a Professor of Liberal Arts and also serves as Dean of Extension Studies at George Wythe College. Dr. Earley has lectured in many different forums, and has spent the last 6 years assisting parents who have chosen to educate their children at home. She has a unique insight in this area as she herself was homeschooled. Dr. Earley is presently publishing a series of books to assist parents in mentoring their children in classical literature. She and her family reside in Utah.
Classes
Preparing to be Mentored - TJEd Youth Wednesday 2:15 - 3:00 PM
Zach Foxley
Being raised as a child in the countries of China, Morocco, and France, Zach Foxley had had the opportunity to develop a love and appreciation for many different cultures around the world. Zach has just returned from serving a mission in Long Beach, California, where he served in both Spanish and English wards as one of the first assigned bilingual Elders in his mission. He loves to study music, and studied jazz guitar for five years. Zach enjoys doing a variety of things in his life, such as serving in the Church, hiking, camping, and reading. He is also an Eagle Scout. Zach is enrolled in Lord Fairfax Community College where he will begin the next phase of his pursuit of knowledge and learning. People say he's easy to get along with and friendly, but you'll have to find that out for yourself by COMING TO HIS CLASS!!!
Classes
Fulfilling Your Mission - TJEd Youth Wednesday 8:50 - 9:35 AM
Dr. Andrew Groft
Dr. Groft will kick off our conference by inspiring you to want to find the “royalty” within yourself. Later, he’ll be speaking to the young men. Be prepared to laugh--Dr. Groft is a popular teacher of college students and youth--but at the same time be inspired to become a better person and a better man. (And watch out for his light saber!)
Andrew Groft was awarded his Doctor of Education Degree from George Wythe College in 2001. Dr. Groft has taught and consulted for the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, Tennessee School for the Deaf and Blind, George Wythe College , Southern Utah University, Iron County Public Schools, and several schools, businesses and governmental forums throughout the Western United States, Europe and Eastern Africa . Dr. Groft formerly served as Caucus Chair to the Family Caucus and Public Relations Liaison at the United Nations in New York and Istanbul. He has served on several business and academic boards. Dr. Groft, his wife Leslie and their five children reside in Utah.
Classes
Keynote: A Renaissance of Kings - Thursday 8:45 - 9:30 AM
Moral Courage for Future Husbands and Fathers - Thursday 3:30 - 4:10 PM
Chad Hymas
Chad Hymas is a speaker you will not want to miss. His own life’s story has been an inspiration to Latter-day Saint youth across the US. He is a devoted husband and father, and works hard to serve and strengthen others as he shares with them how he has faced his challenges, and come off a winner.
On April 3, 2001, Chad's life changed instantaneously when a falling one-ton bale of hay broke his neck leaving him a quadriplegic. Doctors and others said that he would never walk again and would be confined to an electric wheelchair for the rest of his life. But Chad's dreams were NOT paralyzed that day, as he will tell you! His list of achievements include: company president, author, world-class wheelchair athlete (basketball and full-contact rugby!), world-record holding marathoner (500 miles from Salt Lake to Las Vegas), and two-time recipient of the Superior Civilian Award for the state of Utah. Yet, Chad's greatest accomplishment is that he remains a devoted husband to his loving wife, Shondell, and proud father to their two boys and daughter. The Wall Street Journal has described Chad as one of the “10 Most Inspirational People in the World.” His message is amazing and motivating—so get ready to soar! After all, “Who Needs Legs, When You Have Wings!”
Classes
Closing Keynote: Who Needs Legs…When You’ve Got Wings - Friday 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Dr. Glenn Kimber
Ever a popular speaker, year after year, with our youth. Dr. Kimber loves the youth of today, he sees in them the promise of the future and he believes in the great work that you have been called up to accomplish. He’ll do all he can to help you understand your important mission for the Lord.
Glenn J. Kimber was born and raised in the Ogden, Utah area. He and his wife, Julianne Skousen Kimber, currently reside in Utah, and are the parents of eight children (six living), and grand-parents of nineteen. Glenn received a B.S. in Accounting and Business Management from Brigham Young University, a Doctorate of Religious Education from Coral Ridge Baptist University and a Doctorate of Constitutional History from George Wythe College. Brother Kimber travels throughout the U.S. presenting training conferences to those interested in religious private education. He and his wife have founded many private academies, and authored 77 textbooks covering the subjects of History, Science, Math, Language Arts, and Religion from an LDS viewpoint. Currently, Brother Kimber holds the position of President of American Founders Academy, and Vice President of American Founders University, both based in Provo, Utah. A well-known speaker on many topics, one of Brother Kimber’s favorite subjects is testifying of Jesus Christ and the incredible world events that are preceding His Second Coming.
Classes
What Does it Mean to be a Chosen Generation? - Friday 3:10- 3:50 PM
Elizabeth Merrell
Have you ever asked WHY you need to study math? Elizabeth Merrell is passionate about Science and Math and wants to help you understand how meaningful and exciting these two subjects really are!
Between loads of laundry and shifts in the garden Elizabeth Merrell can be found exercising, reading or practicing experimental cooking. In 2007, after a 17-year break from “school,” Elizabeth went back to finish her degree. In 2011, she expects to receive her Master’s in Science and Nutrition (CMP), with a BIS in Chemistry, Nutrition and Zoology and a Master's in Herbology. Passionate about science, Elizabeth created the “Eureka! Studies” program to stimulate interest in the sciences, to meet her children's friends and to find excuses to interact with upcoming scientists. Elizabeth has enjoyed teaching math and science to homeschoolers; homeschooling her own family for ten years, and assisting in the founding of a charter school based on the book "A Well-Trained Mind." She and Kent have three sons followed by three daughters and reside in Bountiful, Utah.
Classes
Finding and Nurturing Your Inner Mathematician - TJEd Youth Wednesday 11:10AM- 11:55PM
Kyle Roberts
Kyle has mentored hundreds of youth in the process of implementing true principles in every day life. He loves youth and you will love him! He comes with great energy and a yearning to teach—while you’re being inspired by Kyle, you’ll be having a great time as well.
Kyle Roberts is a student at George Wythe College and has been involved with the Face to Face with Greatness Seminars. He is the Vice President and Marketing Director of Personal Ponderings L.L.C., a family business he helped build over the last couple of years. Kyle is also the co-founder of the Founder’s Commonwealth School in Payson Utah. He taught there for a year before returning to George Wythe College to finish his undergraduate schooling. For the last four years Kyle has been extensively involved in running simulations for various organizations in Utah. He has mentored hundreds of youth in the process of becoming and implementing true principles in every day life. He enjoys using the gifts and talents he has been given to help others grow. Kyle, his wife Kimberly, and their energetic son live in Utah.
Classes
An Introduction to Thomas Jefferson Education - TJEd Youth Wednesday 8:00-8:50 AM
How Do I Do It? - Friday 8:35 - 9:20 AM
Robin Schneider
Robin Schneider comes all the way from California to teach you how to give better public speeches! Learn how to improve your masterful skills of presentation and persuasion--or at least a simple lesson on “how to keep your knees from knocking” for starters!
Robin grew up in a family that valued both education and science and later earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry. She developed her methods of teaching based on these early experiences, as well as wisdom gained during years of homeschooling her four boys. Her book, Teaching Science Skills at Home (Without Being a Rocket Scientist) was written to show parents how to give their children the best possible science education. She has been a guest on a homeschooling radio show, enjoys emergency preparedness and loves teaching!
Classes
Public Speaking 101 - Thursday 11:20 AM - 12:00 PM
Earl Taylor
Have you ever read The Five Thousand Year Leap, by Cleon Skoussen? Mr. Earl Taylor is well known for his wonderful seminars on the Principles of Freedom and Constitutional Studies. As President of the National Center for Constitutional Studies, he is well suited and respected on the topic of being a statesman, and working to make a positive difference in a nation and in the world.
Earl Taylor, President of the National Center for Constitutional Studies, has taught “The Making of America Constitutional Study Course” to thousands of people throughout the nation, over the past twenty years. The purpose of the NCCS is to teach Americans the exciting message of the Founding Fathers – where they got their great ideas and how they put them all together into a Constitution for the establishment of the first free people in modern times. Mr. Taylor has also served as a coordinator for the Winter Conference for State Legislators, written a special Citizenship study guide for the Boy Scouts, helped structure courses on the U. S. Constitution for college re-certification of public school teachers and established one of the first charter high schools in Arizona. His work is also instrumental in encouraging the celebration of Constitution Week in many cities and schools throughout the nation. Mr. Taylor and his wife, Ruth, are the parents of ten children and reside in Arizona.
Classes
Statesmen in the 21st Century - Friday 11:10 AM- 12:00 PM
Kyla Thomas
Young students teaching young students—that’s what Kyla Thomas is all about! She’s “been there” as a TJEd home school student, and knows what you’re going through. Now she is nearing graduation at GWC and starting to pursue her degree at BYU. Kyla will be lots of fun as well as a model to inspire you in the Liberal Arts.
Kyla Thomas has played the violin for 11 years, and has performed musically since she was 7 in a variety of events. She has a passion for all the arts, and loves beautifying life with them. Kyla is the oldest of six children, and is a senior at George Wythe College. Some of her favorite pastimes are reading, hiking, science, learning languages, spending time with family and friends, and teaching. She is excited for every opportunity to speak to youth about seeing and fulfilling their incredible potential. Kyla lives with her family in Enoch, Utah.
Classes
Wanna Be Smart? Get Creative! - TJEd Youth Wednesday 1:30 - 2:15 PM
Gregory Van Duyse
Those who know Gregory VanDuyse, know of his great gift for taking our divine missions in life to a more committed level. He takes his own talents and inspires others in theirs—to take them to that level of “genius.” He can teach you about Entrepreneurship because that’s what he does. He loves the youth of the church and mentors them whenever he can.
Gregory and his wife Evelyn have been home schooling their five children (10, 8, 7, 2 years old and a new baby!) for the past five years in Montreal, Canada. They have been inspired by the Lord to educate them and consider it a blessing. Gregory is an entrepreneur at heart, and brings a quick businessman’s mind to everything he does. Over the past several years, Gregory has shared his knowledge and experience with the homeschooling community by serving as the LDSEHE Vice President, and now, Chairman of the Board.
Classes
Entrepreneurship - TJEd Youth Wednesday 9:45-10:15AM
Obstacles Could Not Stop Me - Thursday 10:25 - 11:10 AM
Dana Wood
Dana Wood loves the youth—she ought to—she has ten of her own! You’ll be seeing plenty of her once again in this year’s youth education conference and TJEd youth seminar. She works tirelessly and devotedly to directing a conference that reflects what YOU, the youth want.
Dana and her husband, Spencer, have been homeschooling their 10 children since 1987. As a military family, they have lived all over the country, including 9 years in Alaska. Besides homeschooling, Dana enjoys reading, sewing, gardening, knitting and quilting. As LDSEHE Vice President, Dana is primarily responsible for the extraordinary success of our youth education conference over the past two years. She is also becoming an oft-requested and trusted speaker. She and her family reside in New Jersey.
Classes
TJEd Your Way to (Any) College - TJEd Youth Wednesday 10:15 - 11:00 AM
Book Discussion: The Alliance and The Giver - Friday 10:20 - 11:00 AM
Spencer, Ben, Matt, and Andrew Wood
The Wood boys, as they are usually referred to, have all been homeschooled using the TJed model. Spencer's mom discovered TJed when Spencer was in high school and started using the principles with him. Ben, Matt and Andrew (and their older sister Debbie) have benefited from the trial(s) and errors from Spencer's experience. Spencer took GWC classes his senior year and attended one year at BYU_ Salt Lake before deciding his talents branched out in another direction- sales! He is a diamond consultant for the Shane Company in Salt Lake City. Ben plans to attend Southern Virginia University in the fall to study music. Matthew is a student at BYU-I as a Jazz Performance Major and was pianist for the BYU-I jazz swing band "Sound Alliance". Andrew is a senior this year and is deciding between continuing his education at Southern Virginia or Kettering University.
Classes
TJEd Your Way to (Any) College - TJEd Youth Wednesday 10:15 - 11:00 AM
Dr. David Wright
Science classes are always popular in our conference and this year we’ve found one of the best science teachers in the US! You’ll love his class and his Wednesday evening show! Don’t miss it!
Dr. David Wright has his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physics from Brigham Young University, and his PhD in Physics from Virginia Tech. He teaches Physics and Astronomy at Tidewater Community College in Virginia Beach, VA, where he has been for 33 years. Popular for making science fun, he has appeared on “Live with Regis and Kathy Lee” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien”. He is known as Dr. D in the “NASA Science Files” TV show, and also performs physics shows at Busch Gardens. He and his wife have four grown children. Dr. Wright has served as a bishop, Stake President and Stake Young Men’s President.
Classes
Evening Entertainment: Phun with Physics - Wednesday 7:00 - 10:00 PM
Science and Religion - Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
Youth Panel Members
Zach Foxley
Being raised as a child in the countries of China, Morocco, and France, Zach Foxley had had the opportunity to develop a love and appreciation for many different cultures around the world. Zach has just returned from serving a mission in Long Beach, California, where he served in both Spanish and English wards as one of the first assigned bilingual Elders in his mission. He loves to study music, and studied jazz guitar for five years. Zach enjoys doing a variety of things in his life, such as serving in the Church, hiking, camping, and reading. He is also an Eagle Scout. Zach is enrolled in Lord Fairfax Community College where he will begin the next phase of his pursuit of knowledge and learning. People say he's easy to get along with and friendly, but you'll have to find that out for yourself by COMING TO HIS CLASS!!!
Karen Thomas
Karen Thomas was born in Illinois and attended college in New York,
where she met her husband of 30 years and started her life as a military wife. Karen is the mother of 8 children and has homeschooled all of them through high school. She still has two children at home and the three middle ones are attending different colleges. The three oldest have already graduated from college. One child is currently working on his master's degree and the other two have already received their masters degrees.
Cecelia Ward
Cecelia (age 17) is the fifth of twelve children, and currently the oldest kid at home. She loves to draw and write, and is currently writing her second novel. She plays the piano, sings, and has dabbled with the violin. She is her mom's right-hand woman, and teaches creative writing and English to three of her younger siblings in 7th and 8th grades.
Rebecca Watson
Rebecca Watson graduated from high school in Morocco before attending BYU, where she was the only physics major enrolled in children's literature classes. She met her husband, Mike, at BYU and they are the parents of 6 children, including two adopted from Ukraine. The Watsons have lived in Saudi Arabia, South Korea, and the Netherlands. Their children attended both public and private schools before convincing their parents to homeschool them. Their oldest daughter attends BYU Provo and their second daughter will start there this fall. Besides homeschooling, Rebecca writes and reviews children's books and tutors math. She currently lives in northern Virginia.
2008 TJEd for Latter-day Saints Youth Seminar
See something you'd like to listen to? Our audio recordings are available through mail order!
I want to be responsible for my own education, but how do I go about it?
How do I discover my own life’s mission? What should I be doing until I find it?
Can I really do TJEd and be accepted into college?
Will following the TJEd principles really prepare me for leadership?
How do I use my education to help me feel the Spirit’s influence in my life?
If you have ever asked yourself these questions, you are not alone. This year, for the first time ever, LDSEHE is offering a TJEd for Latter-day Saint Youth seminar, which will occur at the same time as the adult TJEd seminar. Specially selected speakers, both adults and young adults with many years of experience with TJEd will help you find the answers to your questions about Leadership Education. If you like the principles of leadership education but don’t know exactly how to implement it in your own life, this is the seminar for you!
And don’t forget—when you attend this seminar, you get to stick around for the next two days and attend the LDSEHE Youth Education Conference for FREE! (when accompanied by a parent who is attending the LDSEHE adult conference.) There is also special pricing available to families with several youth coming.
2008 Evening Activities for the Whole Family
Many thanks to Dr. Wright and all our talented youth for last year's GREAT evening entertainment!!
Wednesday Night
Phun with Physics: Hovercraft, Beds of Nails, Exploding Shaving Cream and More
Our Wednesday night activities will start off your conference experience with a bang…literally. (Watch out for the exploding shaving cream!)
Fun and physics…together? Is that possible? It is, if you have Dr. David Wright to show you how! Dr. Wright, Professor of Physics at Tidewater Community College, will help us see that science is anything but boring. A dynamic speaker, Dr. Wright frequently performs physics demonstrations at well-known theme parks, including Busch Gardens in Williamsburg and Tampa Bay. We are thrilled that he is coming to entertain and enlighten us with the wonders of science.
After Dr. Wright’s presentation, plan to linger for awhile to enjoy some refreshments and of course, the fabulous ocean view. This is a great time to socialize with the other LDSEHE families, catch up with old friends, and make new ones.
Thursday Night
Youth Talent Show and Family Beach Dance
Even after a full day of fabulous classes, you will want to save some energy for our Thursday night activities.
First, we will have what is quickly becoming a favorite part of the annual conference: the Youth Talent Show. This is the chance for families to sit back, relax and enjoy the performances of our many talented teens—and when we say talented, we mean it! From tap-dancing to Tae Kwon Do and everything in between, our LDSEHE youth are amazing.
After the talent show, it’s time for the whole family to kick up its heels and dance. With lots of music and mingling, our Family Dance will have something for everyone to enjoy.
Saturday at the Beach
A full day of just pure play in the sun! Although the conference officially ends Friday evening, your family may choose to stay an extra day and spend Saturday at the beach together with other conference families. No schedules, no classes, no plans, just relaxation and family togetherness. It’s a public beach, so there is no charge. Bring picnic lunches and spend the day together getting to know each other--family to family.
Wednesday:
Phun With Physics: Hovercraft, Beds of Nails, Exploding Shaving Cream and More! 7:00 p.m.
Thursday:
Youth Talent Show 7:30 p.m.
Family Beach Dance 8:30 p.m.
“Activities are a wonderful icing on the cake.”
“Dancing was great! It was wonderful to have a family dance to reward our patient children who had to wait all day while we were at the conference.”
“Since we are so spread out I feel these opportunities are important so the whole family has the chance to bond and relate with other homeschoolers.”
“…Loved the family group activities you included this year. I am excited to bring my family next year.”
2008 Vendors
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Personal Ponderings has developed journaling systems to organize not only the record of daily life and deep spiritual thoughts and feelings, but also insights and understandings of literary works. These journals are simple tools that provide a safe place for powerful personal thoughts and beliefs. They easily organize the record of one's experiences. By dividing life into three areas: day-to-day living, literary works, and spiritual experiences, we can more easily organize our own record, the great ideas of others, and our personal revelations.
Our Computerized Learning Assessment and Intervention System helps identify many of the different learning problems children have. Home educators may use these assessments to monitor their children’s progress over time allowing you to quantify the effectiveness of an intervention strategy. Use our Skill Builder Intervention Exercises to improve reading & math fluency and to supplement standard instruction. These exercises are particularly effective with children who have struggled with phonics-based instruction. Our products are 100% research-based and are the culmination of over 20 years of learning research at the LATAS Learning Lab at the University of Massachusetts. As a liberal arts institution, Southern Virginia University focuses on the best Western civilization has to offer. Our rich general education program immerses students in the study of great human accomplishments in the letters, arts and sciences. Students study Greek, Roman and European works that helped lay the foundation upon which our modern political, economic, scientific and artistic thinking is based. Our students learn how to think critically, analyze information rigorously and communicate ideas effectively.
View and learn first hand the advantages of several of the best wheat grinders and other preparedness products on the market, such as the Bosch Universal Kitchen Machine, the Wonder Mill, NutriMill, Country Living Grain Mill, The Pump N Seal (for vacuum sealing jars), and the Campo Flaker and Roller (for making fresh rolled oats). Melissa Coombs will have her book The Hows and Whys of the Year Supply available for purchase. This practical book will help you learn all you need to get started on your year supply of food, and how to incorporate it into your everyday cooking.
Come visit Melissa Coombs as she launches her newest adventure in serving and supporting the LDS community-- as she now begins to market her "very favorite homeschool books." Melissa is anxious to help her homeschooling friends on the Eastern US. " As a new homeschooler, I wasted tons of money trying out curriculum that I ended up not liking. So I have decided to offer what I think are the best of the best!" Here's a sampling of books she will offer: Real Science 4 Kids, Apologia Science, Story of the World, Math It, Writing Strands, Explode the Code, Saxon Math, Dive CDs, Rosetta Stone, Sequential Spelling (great for those with dyslexia!), and much more. BYU Independent Study offers distance learning courses that are truly for anyone, anytime, anywhere. We offer over 200 high school and over 250 university courses that can help students make up credit, graduate on time, enhance their curriculum, or earn university credit. Students can sign up at anytime and have one year to complete each course, allowing them to work at their own pace. All courses are accredited and are generally transferable to other educational institutions. BYU Independent Study is known as an organization with integrity, and our primary goal is to help students receive a high-quality, affordable education. |
We republish historical Mormon books that tell the stories of the LDS Church's growth through its formative years from the vantage of those who lived through the events. They are "first-hand" accounts by the makers of history. Classics such as The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo and The Mormon Battalion written by B.H. Roberts; Voice of Warning by Parley P. Pratt; Joseph Smith as Scientist by John A. Widtsoe; The Great Apostasy by James E. Talmage; The Mediation and Atonement of Jesus Christ by John Taylor. LDS classics written for youth and children From Plowboy to Prophet and Mother Stories from the Book of Mormon by William A. Morton; Jacob Hamblin by James A. Little; George Q. Cannon’s books History of Joseph Smith, Life of Nephi, and My First Mission - just to name a few of our more than 90 books. Dedicated to bringing you the very best in educational & classical literature, with a particular emphasis on the education of young people. Whether you want to study science, math, history, or read wholesome literature, we offer books that build character and faith. Are you looking for a book about a certain person or time period? Let us help you find it. We feel everyone learns best through uplifting real life experiences and out of the very best books. World, U.S., and Native American history books with an LDS Perspective, written by Dan Hunter. Dan started writing these books when he was teaching at a private school. Researching people and events of history take much time and soon other teachers were asking for the stories Dan was using to teach history. History is more interesting and better remembered when told in stories about the people and events of that time period. It is also important to learn history with an understanding of God’s laws and His hand in dealing with people as they obey or disobey those laws. These books have map outlines you can copy for your children and a list of books and videos that go with the time period being studied. President Monson said, "You don't find truth groveling through error. You find truth by searching the holy word of God." President Kimball also taught that "The secular without the foundation of the spiritual is like the foam upon the milk, the fleeting shadow. One need not choose between the two, for there is opportunity to get both simultaneously. "Even though these concepts have been taught by our Church leaders, most curriculum is void of the teachings from the Standard Works. The Kimber curriculum is established to be a GUIDE to assist the student to progress through their learning experience by joining the Standard Works with the secular learning in every subject. We have intertwined INTRINSIC VALUES throughout the curriculum to help students reach their maximum spiritual and academic potential. This curriculum, along with catalogs and sample packets, will be available at the Conference. Distance Learning is also offered with Dr. Kimber's lectures and teachings at Kimber Academy, videoed from Salt Lake City. |
Maeser Academy
The Five Thousand Year Leap describes the miracle that is changing the world. When your friends and neighbors express doubts about America, give them this book to read. It will give them answers to their questions.
Award winning account of the creation of the Constitution of the United States. Nearly 400,000 distributed in last two years to schools and families. Teachers and parents love it, students are drawn to it. This DVD is given away FREE as a complimentary gift to all families who register for the LDSEHE conference.
The Five Thousand Year Leap DVD Study Course Twenty-seven lessons presented in classroom style with PowerPoint notes. Complete with quizzes and examinations. Judged by many to be the best course teaching the foundations of liberty and the Constitution.
Research shows that children are the most receptive to learning between the ages of two and six. Learning to Read Using the Book of Mormon takes that early zest for learning and combines it with the scriptures and the educational tools needed to teach children how to read. Each chapter of the Book of Mormon consist of lessons that have been carefully outlined to reinforce the development of phonological skills as well as the development of sight (memorization) words. Be sure to take advantage of the carefully detailed, researched, and pre-planned lessons to enhance your child's understanding of both literacy and the Book of Mormon.
TJEd for Latter-day Saints Seminar
Many thanks go to our local and national TJEd experts, who gave us an information-packed seminar!
"Fabulous, very inspiring and touching! I learned something valuable in each and every class!"
-2008 TJEd Attendee, J.V. Charlestown, WV
"I appreciate the LDS perspective. This is what I need right now to help me raise my part of God's children."
-2008 TJEd Attendee, M.A. Hayward, MN
Professional audio recordings of this entire seminar are available through mail order. Click here.
After last year’s pre-conference Thomas Jefferson Education seminar, the comment we heard most often was “do it again!” So, we are. We know that many LDS home educators are interested in the TJEd principles and are always looking for more help at implementing them. But, as the board and conference committee of LDSEHE, we felt that we could, and should, offer you more.
This year we are offering a brand-new, unique seminar—TJEd for Latter-day Saints. This is the only seminar of its kind that we know of…anywhere. Hear of the principles, philosophies and practices of a TJEd homeschool as taught within the walls of a Latter-day Saint home. Learn about TJEd principles as they come directly from our own core book, the Book of Mormon, and further testified of from our Latter-day prophets.
Our theme for this special seminar is “Parents on the Path of Wisdom: How to Follow the Spirit in your LDS TJEd homeschool.” It’s not about “how to TJEd” like Sister X’s family, or “how to mentor” like Brother Z. It’s all about how to discern through the Spirit your children’s needs and how to meet them, all the while recognizing the special and unique missions that you and your children have.
Our speakers for this seminar, Angela Baker, Elizabeth Merrell and Dr. Julie Earley, have years of experience in leadership education and are popular speakers at TJEd venues and conferences. We feel confident that they will inspire you to better implement the TJEd principles in your LDS home.
The morning portion of the seminar will be divided into two separate tracks; one aimed at the those who don’t know too much about TJEd but are interested in learning more, and the other aimed at more experienced TJEd homeschoolers. Then, the afternoon classes will bring us back together to discuss issues aimed at both the novice and the veteran. Overall, we hope you will leave this seminar informed and inspired to do a little better, and reach a little higher in your leadership education home.
If you are interested in the principles of TJEd, this is one seminar you won’t want to miss.
$75 Adult Registration (Spouse is free) Learn about special rates for combined seminar and conference registration.
2008 Speakers
We thank our our 2008 speakers!
Audio recordings of all classes available through mail order.
2008 Keynote Speakers
Dr. Andrew Groft of George Wythe College |
Chad Hymas of Chad Hymas Communication |
2008 Speakers
2008 Panel Members
Angela Baker
"I have listened to your workshop...'Statesmanship and the Handcart Principle' three times and what an impact is has had on me. I love your down-to-earth way of sharing your insight and experience. You inspire me to want to do better in a way that is not intimidating or doesn't seem unreachable." R. Gurney
"I have pondered over the notes I took in your class and have shared parts of your presentation with several of my friends so your influence has been far reaching! It was good for me to hear that certain kinds of doubts are still felt by others who have been at it longer and it is only when taken to the right source and trusting His understanding over ours, that true growth and wisdom is gained. Please know you are making a difference for people like me." -B.
Angela Baker is the mother of seven children, ages 2-18. She and her husband Roger have home schooled their children for 12 years, the last 6 of which have been strongly influenced by the principles of Thomas Jefferson Education. She holds a Masters Degree in education from GWC; a Bachelor’s in Family Science from BYU; is 5 Pillar certified; directs the 5 Pillar Certification Program at GWC; and is a teacher in The Lexington Commonwealth (a group of TJEd families that meet together). Angela also enjoys her work as the director/mentor of the 5 Pillar program at GWC. A popular speaker for retreats and education venues, she also enjoys teaching in a variety of settings. Angela’s “down time” is filled with personal study and writing, running, singing and occasional quiet dinners with Roger. The Bakers live in Utah with an assortment of animals, including goats, chickens and a pig.
Angela Baker will be sharing her insights at the TJEd Seminar - listen to interview with Angela Baker
Classes
If Any of You Lack Wisdom... TJEd Parents on the Path of Wisdom - TJEd Wednesday 8:00-9:00 AM
7 Keys of Great Teaching - TJEd Wednesday 10:00-11:00 AM
Plato and the Handcart Principle - TJEd Wednesday 11:00AM-12:00PM
Power of Classics in Education - TJEd Wednesday 1:30- 2:30 PM
The Eighth Key of Great Teaching - TJEd Wednesday 4:30-5:30PM
If Any of You Lack Wisdom... Parents on the Path of Wisdom - Thusday 9:45 - 10:45 AM
A Joyful Mother - Friday 1:30-2:30 PM
Kari & VonLogan Brimhall
"Kari gives simple and wonderful ideas that can be implemented in your home." P. Berge
"Kari's delivery is concise and to the point. Very helpful!"
Kari and VonLogan Brimall have been married for 19 adventurous years and have four fabulous children (ages 9-16). They have lived all over the country and in Mexico. It's never a dull moment as they love exploring new places, serving in the church (he is in the Stake presidency, and she teaches early morning seminary), writing and making movies with their family and friends.
Classes
Why Homeschool? - Wednesday Beginners 1:30- 2:30 PM
Melissa Coombs
"I loved Melissa's openness and real practicality. Melissa has true, humble passion!" —2007 Conference Attendee
"Melissa has such energy in her classes! I love to hear her speak because she is so "real" and tells it like it is. I appreciate her positive attitude and I always feel encouraged and motivated when I hear her speak. She is an inspiration to all of us!" -Tammy G. Detroit, MI
Melissa Coombs grew up in Lugoff, South Carolina. An excellent student, she was awarded academic and Journalism scholarships to the University of South Carolina. She later attended UVSC and BYU in Provo, Utah and it was there she met and married her “tall, dark and handsome” husband, Shawn. They have been married for 16 years and have five children.
The author of “The Hows and Whys of the Year Supply,” Melissa is passionate about food storage and preparedness and is a popular speaker on these subjects. She and her family raise a huge garden every summer and bottle hundreds of jars of fruits and vegetables each year. Melissa and her family also love outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, canoeing, fishing and rappelling. Melissa is knowledgeable and enthusiastic about a wide range of topics, from scrap-booking and photography to raising Buff Orpingtons (that’s laying hens, to us city folk!).
Melissa used to think that homeschooling was the craziest thing she ever heard of, until the Lord told her that she needed to homeschool her own children. Although she really knew very little about the subject, she jumped in with both feet and quickly learned a lot! She now knows that it is the best thing she has ever done for her family. She has been homeschooling her three sons and two daughters for the past seven years, and although “it’s the hardest thing [she] has ever tried to do,” she absolutely loves it!
Classes
Happy Mommy: Tips to Help New Homeschool Moms… - Wednesday Beginners 3:30- 4:30 PM
Dr. Julie Earley
“[Julie Earley] is so polished and an effective presenter. She always has things of great substance to offer…” –Diann Jeppson, President, American Youth Leadership Institute
“I loved [Dr. Earley’s] presentation, very warm and informative.” --2006 TJEd Forum attendee, Utah
[Julie Earley] was fabulous. Everything was applicable, easy to understand, she was witty, easy to follow, excellent info much needed.” –2006 TJEd Forum attendee, Utah
Dr. Julie Earley holds Masters and Doctorate degrees in Education. Currently she is a Professor of Liberal Arts and also serves as Dean of Extension Studies at George Wythe College. Dr. Earley has taught in primary, secondary and post-secondary institutions and has lectured in many different forums. She has spent the last 6 years assisting parents who have chosen to educate their children at home. She has a unique insight in this area as she herself was homeschooled. Dr. Earley is presently publishing a series of books to assist parents in mentoring their children in classical literature. She and her husband, Daniel reside in Lehi, Utah and were recently blessed with their first child.
Classes
The Four Phases of Education - TJEd Wednesday 9:00 - 10:00 AM
Adult Phases of TJEd - TJEd Wednesday 10:00 - 11:00 AM
Vendor Workshop: Introduction to Thomas Jefferson Education (TJEd) - Thursday 1:30 - 2:30 PM
The Power of an Educated Woman - Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Camille Funk
“I have sold reading programs for thirty years. In the process, I became a critic, and I must say that few reading programs have met my approval. I have found that splashy and attractive covers often hide the content that doesn’t help kids learn to read. Learning to Read Using the Book of Mormon has passed muster for me. I like it! Congratulations to Camille Funk for crafting a masterful work for teaching reading. Who would have thought that the Book of Mormon could be used as such a wonderful primer?”
--R. Dwight Laws, Ph.D.
Camille Funk was born and raised in South Pasadena, California. She graduated from Brigham Young University with a BS in Elementary Education. She received an MA in International Education Development, with a minor in Curriculum and Development from Teachers College, Columbia University. Camille has taught kindergarten and fifth grade and is a part-time faculty member for Brigham Young University's College of Religious Education. She currently works as an Educational Administrator for Brigham Young University Independent Study.
Camille also served as a missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the New York Utica mission. In her free time, she loves spending time with her family and enjoys oil painting, photography, soccer, softball, and football.
Classes
Vendor Workshop: Teaching Your Child to Read Using the Book of Mormon - Thursday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Teaching Children with Special Needs to Read - Thursday 4:00- 5:00 PM
Vendor Workshop: BYU Independent Study - Friday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Dr. Andrew Groft
Dr. Andrew Groft was awarded his Doctor of Education Degree from George Wythe College in 2001. Dr. Groft has taught and consulted for the Pennsylvania School for the Deaf, Tennessee School for the Deaf and Blind, George Wythe College , Southern Utah University, Iron County Public Schools, and several schools, businesses and governmental forums throughout the Western United States, Europe and Eastern Africa . Dr. Groft formerly served as Caucus Chair to the Family Caucus and Public Relations Liaison at the United Nations in New York and Istanbul. He has served on several business and academic boards. Andrew, his wife Leslie and their five children reside in Utah.
Classes
Keynote: A Renaissance of Kings - Thursday 8:45- 9:30 AM
The Way You See Government is the Way You See Education - Friday 8:30- 9:30 AM
Teacher of the Year - Friday 2:45-3:45 PM
Marty Huie
Marty Huie, and her husband, Mark, have been homeschooling for 8 years. They live in Virginia with their four children; the oldest just entering the high school years and the youngest just getting baptized.
Marty joined the LDS church while in college and soon transferred to BYU. She then served a full-time mission in Los Angeles , returning home to marry her sweetheart and graduate from BYU with a degree in Civil Engineering. As a career-driven convert to the church, the thought of being a stay-at-home mom took some soul searching. However, after she felt led to the decision, she has never regretted it. Subsequently, the idea of home schooling was an alien concept. However, circumstances forced them to consider home schooling as a “temporary” option. The big surprise was when the circumstances ended, that it was the thought of sending their children to public schools had become the real alien concept. They have been home schooling ever since.
Marty and Mark’s approach to home schooling has evolved through the years, changing according to the needs of their family and inspiration. Currently, they draw from many sources, combining a classical education with a Thomas Jefferson Education approach.
The Huies love living in the country where they can own horses, 4-wheel to their hearts content, and “live” nature rather than just read about it. Their favorite part of the school day is when they gather together and “devour” a great classic. Marty currently serves on the 2008 LDSEHE Conference Committee.
Classes
Homeschool Philosophies - Wednesday Beginners 2:30-3:30 PM
Dan Hunter
“…Very impressed with Dan’s knowledge about what is, to me, an incredibly difficult subject. Made it very interesting.”
—Tony E., NC
Dan Hunter and his wife Janice have been married for twenty-eight years, and have 5 children, ranging in age from 19 to 27. They have homeschooled for 15 years. They currently have 3 married children, 1 child attending college, and 4 grandchildren. As a young man, Dan received his Duty to God award and served a mission in Sweden from 1975-1977. He has held many callings in the church, beginning with Deacon’s Quorum president and ranging from seminary teacher, Young Men’s President, Bishop’s counselor and more.
Dan is a graduate of George Wythe College in Business and Biblical Studies and was a private school teacher for ten years. While he was teaching, he found himself spending a great deal of time researching the people and events of history. Soon, other teachers expressed interest in the fruits of Dan’s research and he began writing his books. Currently, Dan has written nine history books which are used in private schools and homeschools across the nation. When Dan started this writing in 1999, he also founded his first publishing company, Living History. Dan’s Living History’s books cover U.S. and world history from an LDS perspective. Dan feels that history is more interesting and better remembered when told through the stories about the people and events of the time period. He also believes that it is vitally important to study history with an understanding of God’s laws, and his hand in dealing with his children when they obey or disobey those laws.
In 2004, the Hunters bought Archive Publishers and Wholesome Books, which they run with a lot of help from their children! Archive Publishers republishes historical Mormon books that tell the stories of the growth of the LDS church from the vantage point of those who lived through the events. Wholesome Books pursues the very best in educational and classical literature, with a particular emphasis on the education of young people. The Hunters believe that each of us has a mission to perform on this earth, and that the purpose of education is to help us in our unique missions.
Classes
Vendor Workshop: Living History - Thursday 2:45- 3:45 PM
How Did the Native Americans Get Here? - Friday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Chad Hymas
"...laughter rolled through the auditorium the whole time he was speaking. He's got great stories (on subjects ranging from his kids to discouragement to wheelchair rugby, he's smart...he's warm and personable." R. Nash, Public Relations, IHC
"Chad's story needs to be told to everyone. Outstanding plus!' T. Lawler, DLR
If there is one thing that is constant in our personal and professional lives, it is change! The Wall Street Journal hails our speaker as one of the 10 most inspriational people in the world. In an era of unprecedented change and constant challenges, Chad Hymas is in high demand as an inspirational speaker. Traveling to businesses and organizations worldwide, Chad speaks as many as 150 times a year sharing his personal message.
On April 3, 2001, Chad's life changed instantaneously when a falling one-ton bale of hay broke his neck leaving him a quadriplegic. Doctors and others said that he would never walk again and that for the rest of his life he would be confined to an electric wheelchair.
Chad's dreams were NOT paralyzed that day, as he will tell you! He is the President of his own communications company. He is the author of the book entitled Soaring To New Heights. Chad is a world class wheelchair athlete playing basketball, full contact quad rugby, and he races marathons. In July of 2003, Chad set a new world record by wheeling a personal marathon of over 500 miles from Salt Lake City to Las Vegas. Also in 2003, Chad was one of two recipients in the state of Utah to receive the Superior Civilian Award. Yet, Chad's greatest accomplishment is that he remains a devoted husband to his loving wife, Shondell, and proud father to their two boys and daughter.
His message is inspiring! His experiences are amazing! So get ready to soar as Chad will tell you "Who Needs Legs, When You Have Wings?"
Classes
Closing Keynote: Who Needs Legs…When You’ve Got Wings - Friday 4:00-5:00 PM
Dr. Glenn Kimber
"I loved the keynote speech by Glenn Kimber! I love attending a homeschool conference that has focus on the gospel. -Thank you!!" -2007 Conference Attendee
"Brother Kimber empowers with his speech. He makes me feel that I can." -2007 Conference Attendee
“Dr. Kimber's talk truly was superior and life changing. He spoke with power, conviction, and helped me love my children more. Fabulous!” -2007 Conference Attendee
Brother Glenn J. Kimber was born and raised in the Ogden, Utah area. He and his wife, Julianne Skousen Kimber, currently reside in Utah, and are the parents of eight children (six living), and grand-parents of nineteen.
Glenn’s undergraduate studies at Brigham Young University were in Accounting and Business Management where he earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in 1971. He has also received two Doctorate Degrees, a Doctorate of Religious Education from Coral Ridge Baptist University of Florida, and a Doctorate of Constitutional History from George Wythe College in Cedar City, Utah.
Brother Kimber has always had a love for America and our inspired Constitution. He was instrumental in developing a television program called “The Miracle of America,” which was presented nation-wide during the 1980s. He has also appeared before legislative committees in several states pertaining to religious education and other Constitutional issues. In addition, Brother and Sister Kimber have formed private schools called Kimber Academies (formerly known as The Benjamin Franklin Academy private schools). Brother Kimber travels throughout the U.S. presenting training conferences to those interested in religious private education. He and his wife have authored 77 textbooks covering the subjects of History, Science, Math, Language Arts, and Religion. All these textbooks are based on LDS principles and emphasize community service, and a love of learning for students of all ages.
Brother Kimber has also led over 30 tours to Israel during the past several years. While there, students and parents have the opportunity to participate in an excavation 20 miles south of Jerusalem called the Beit-Lehi Excavation. It is here that the Bedouin and Arab people claim that many years ago a prophet named Lehi lived and taught the people of Ishmael and Isaac.
Currently, Brother Kimber holds the position of President of American Founders Academy, and Vice President of American Founders University, both based in Provo, Utah. A well-known speaker on many topics, one of Brother Kimber’s favorite subjects is testifying of Jesus Christ and the incredible world events that are preceding His Second Coming. Dr. Kimber has also become a favorite presenter at homeschool conferences around the country. His warm speaking style is appreciated by parents and students alike.
Classes
American History and Prophecy, Part 1 - Thursday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Preparing for Cities of Zion, Part 2 - Thursday 11:00AM-12:00PM
Vendor Workshop: Kimber Curriculum - Friday 8:30- 9:30 AM
Elizabeth Merrell
“Clearly Eureka! is needed by home schoolers. I like the format: the 4 semesters are interesting and well designed, and I love your chapter headings--Inspirements! I like the Modern Quadrivium Model, and the way writing, history, science, etc. are all part of the mathematical study. Quotes, poetry, assignments, biographical summaries, surveys, officer guidelines, portfolios, lecture outlines--it has it all! --Oliver DeMille, President of George Wythe College and father of 8 childrenEureka! Club is delightful! We spend half the day researching and discovering together, from our six month old baby to our eleven-year-old son. This is so much more than a math class. It is an entire school in itself, centered on teaching truth and the love of finding it! ...The things we are learning together will serve our family for generations! --Stephanie S., UT, mother of 5
Between loads of laundry and shifts in the garden Elizabeth Merrell can be found exercising, reading or practicing experimental cooking. Passionate about science, Elizabeth created the “Eureka! Studies” to stimulate interest in the sciences, to meet her children's friends and to find excuses to interact with upcoming scientists.
Elizabeth Merrell grew up in Houston, Texas as the second of twelve children born to Robert and Debbie Ahlborn. Life in the Ahlborn home focused around the family, with many home projects and an abundance of work opportunities. Elizabeth knows firsthand how trials are the crucibles for growth. Each crisis and the resolution thereof transforms and teaches her, and she claims her "real age" is at least 108 years. As her sons grow through their teenage years she expects to add many additional decades to this sum. She and Kent have three sons followed by three daughters and reside in Bountiful, Utah.
In 2007, after a 17-year break from her educational pursuits, Elizabeth went back to school to finish her degree. In 2011 she expects to finish a Masters in Science and Nutrition (CMP), with a BIS in Chemistry, Nutrition and Zoology and a Master's in Herbology. When she is finished she hopes that she can still remember how to sleep at night! Her goal is to use her educational training as a Registered Dietitian to change lives through better health while contributing to the education and missions of her 6 children. She also plans to cash in on her husband's promise to serve a mission together, perhaps dealing with third world nutrition issues or other humanitarian causes.
Fulfilling moments of Elizabeth’s life include the opportunity to serve as the Vice-President of the Norma I. Love Foundation, offering aid to Mosquito Coast villagers over a span of 6 years; serving as the Young Women's president in Frisco, Texas; teaching swimming lessons, especially to near-drowning victims; teaching math and science to homeschoolers; homeschooling her own family for ten years, and assisting in the founding of a charter school based on the book "A Well-Trained Mind." Despite the joys found in these activities, Elizabeth cherishes most the daily pleasures found in the faces of her children and in the constancy of her husband's love and support.
Classes
Real Math in TJEd - TJEd Wednesday 9:00-10:00 AM
Eureka! Inspiring Math and Science! - TJEd Wednesday 2:30-3:30 PM
Math Your Kids Need to Know - Thursday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Leaping Into Mathematical and Scientific Discovery - Friday 8:30- 9:30 AM
Nicholeen Peck
"I asked my son if he noticed any difference in our home since we had been using the Teaching Self Government Model. He said, 'Yeah, I am able to control myself now. I didn't really think I could before." J.R.-------Utah
"I feel so empowered and am consistently in control of my parenting for the first time in 10 years!!! Thanks, Nicholeen." -K. Alba ~Herriman, Utah
Nicholeen lives with her amazing husband, Spencer and their four children in Tooele, UT. She and Spencer have spent 13 years focusing on building a structure for an effective, joyful family. Nicholeen has a passion for helping families recognize principles that can help lift their families to the level of excellence which they desire. She has been trained and certified in using the “Teaching Family Model”, which was developed at Boys Town and is used by the Utah Youth Village. Nicholeen has presented parenting and leadership classes and seminars for 9 years throughout the United States and is currently working on a book on this subject.
The Pecks were foster parents to troubled youth ages 12-18 for four years, and credit their parenting paradigm shift to that experience. During these years, Nicholeen taught children with ADHD, OCD, kleptomania, compulsive lying, and anger control issues. She said, “I taught behaviors, not medication. They would come to us on many medications and usually leave not on any medications. Many children are misdiagnosed. They just need to learn cause and effect better.” Nicholeen is 5 Pillar Certified from George Wythe College. She leads an adult scholar group in her area, and is addicted to classics in all of their forms.
Nicholeen Peck will be giving seminars on Effective Parenting and Family Government - listen to interview with Nicholeen Peck
Interested in Nicholeen's Parenting Seminar? Now you can listen to her entire seminar in our LDSEHE eConference! Or purchase the CDs or better yet, purchse the instant Downloads! Don't wait, this eConference is only available through December 31, 2009!
Classes
Parenting Mini-Seminar Part 1: The Foundation for Effective Parenting - Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
Parenting Mini-Seminar Part 2: Building Good Family Government - Thursday 2:45- 3:45 PM
Parenting Mini-Seminar Part 3: Teaching Self Government - Friday 8:30- 9:30 AM
Parenting Mini-Seminar Part 4: We are as the Parents of the Army of Helaman - Friday 9:45 - 10:45 AM
Kyle Roberts
Kyle Roberts is a student at George Wythe College and has been involved with the Face to Face with Greatness Seminars. He is the Vice President and Marketing Director of Personal Ponderings L.L.C., a family business he helped build over the last couple years.
Kyle is also the co-founder of the Founder’s Commonwealth School in Payson Utah. He taught there for a year before returning to George Wythe College to finish his undergraduate schooling.
For the last four years Kyle has been extensively involved in running simulations for various organizations in Utah. He has mentored hundreds of youth in the process of becoming and implementing true principles in every day life. He enjoys using the gifts and talents he has been given to help others grow.
Kyle currently lives in Cedar City, Utah, is married to the former Kimberly Wright, and has one, very energetic, one year old boy.
Classes
Vendor Workshop: Personal Ponderings - Friday 1:30-1:55 PM
Robin Schneider
"I went to your class three years ago. It totally changed the way I did science. My daughter's really got into science during the last couple of years, and I credit that to you." —2007 Attendee of a California HS Conference
Many homeschooling parents feel intimidated by the thought of teaching science; Robin Schneider has long felt inspired to educate and encourage moms and dads in this area. Her book, Teaching Science Skills at Home (Without Being a Rocket Scientist) was written to show parents how to give their children the best possible science education. She has been a guest on a homeschooling radio show.
Robin grew up in a family that valued both education and science and later earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry. She developed her methods of teaching based on these early experiences, as well as wisdom gained during years of homeschooling her four boys.
When not caring for her family, reading about science, or writing, Robin dabbles in her hobby of emergency preparedness. She's the author of the EmergencyPrep.net website as well as a member of the instructor committee for her city's Community Emergency Response Team.
Robin's past callings have been numerous and varied, but she's most enjoyed the twelve years she spent as some sort of teacher (Primary, Teacher Development). She currently serves as the Assistant Stake Preparedness Director in the Los Altos California Stake but looks forward hopefully to another teaching calling in the future.
Classes
Questions, Questions: Teaching with the Socratic Method - Thursday 2:45 - 3:45 PM
Teaching Science: The Three Pillars and the Scientific Method - Friday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Alison Moore Smith
"I always look forward to what Alison has to say--on any topic. Besides being VERY entertaining (and an all-around fun person), she has a way of getting to the point and explaining herself well. Because of that knack she has in catching the essence of a topic and laying it out so clearly-not to mention her wealth of knowledge--I know that when Alison is talking I want to be around to hear it!" --LauraLyn E., UT.
Alison Moore Smith was born in Provo, Utah, in 1964, and handed over to her real, loving parents two days later in the Skaggs parking lot. (Is this what we call a blue light special?) In 1985 she married her dream man, Dr. Samuel McArthur Smith, in the Salt Lake Temple. She graduated from BYU in 1987, three weeks after her first child was born.
She is now in her 14th year of homeschooling her six children. Her oldest daughter is a junior at BYU (on academic scholarship) and her youngest is four.
Alison loves singing, writing, computers, reading, karate, and rice crispies with sugar free chocolate milk powder and skim milk. She ran (using the term loosely) the Top of Utah Marathon to celebrate her 40th year on earth in 2004 and directed an awesome homeschool, teen, swing choir called SwingShift. She also serves as the CFO of Adept Systems Inc, owner of BookAlmighty.com, and creator of MormonMomma.com.
Classes
7 Habits of Highly Effective Home Schoolers - Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
A Super-Charged Home School Mom - Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Rodney K. Smith
“President Rodney Smith's class on higher education was the most profound 50 minutes of this conference.” --2007 Conference Attendee
President Smith was appointed President of Southern Virginia University on June 1, 2004. Before coming to SVU, he served as interim dean and Herff Chair of Excellence in Law at The University of Memphis. He also has taught or served as dean at The University of Arkansas at Little Rock, Capital University, The University of Montana, The University of San Diego, Widener University and The University of North Dakota.
Classes
Vendor Workshop: Southern Virginia University - Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Sasha Takis
"I wanted to tell you again what a wonderful presentation you made last Saturday. I am impressed with the energy and effort you put into your children's education. I have three boys -- and you made it all seem possible! Thanks so much for that!!!" —Michaela B., UT
Sasha Takis was born and raised in Idaho. Graduating from Nampa High School in 1991 as an Honor Student, She attended Westminster College of Salt Lake City with numerous academic, literary, and music scholarships. While at Westminster, she distinguished herself as an accomplished musician (testing out of various classes, earning her Minor in Music while a freshman, becoming the first freshman ever admitted into Westminster’s Renaissance Singers) and editor of the literary magazine. .
While at Westminster, Sasha met her future husband, Phil, and then proceeded to “serve a mission” in introducing him to the gospel. She left Westminster and pursued writing, graduating from The Institute of Children’s Literature. After her husband’s college graduation, they moved to the Seattle, Washington area, where they lived for 11 years. Their 5 children were born in Washington. Their 4 sons (ages 12, 10, 7, and 5) and their daughter (age 3) have always been homeschooled.
Sasha has a vast love for learning and education, and especially for bringing the gospel truths into each “subject.” While taking a Homeschool Qualification Course (a Washington State law), she decided to finish her Bachelor’s degree. That was all fine and good until she “got into it” with a Sociology professor over the vulgar required reading for the course. She told the professor what was what, dropped the course, and burned the book. This experience only fueled her fire for homeschooling!
Sasha has authored close to 50 published homeschool articles. She is a popular speaker at various homeschool conferences around the country. Sasha served for 5 years as a board member for the Washington State Latter-day Saint Family Educators, and for 2 years on the board of the National LDS Homeschool Association. Sasha was an assistant editor for a year for the Utah Home Education Association’s newsletter, Right at Home, and the Editor in Chief for a year of LDS-NHA’s publications, The Sentinel, The Quarterly Bulletin, and The Leaders’ Post.
Sasha is currently settled in Nibley (Logan), Utah, where she is heavily involved in her local support group, the Cache Valley Homeschoolers. She puts on a huge Fall Festival for the group every year, as well as a few smaller activities. In addition to enjoying eternal education with her children, Sasha is a piano teacher and likes writing and performing music. Her hobbies include hiking, tennis, archery, gardening, photography, scrapbooking, canning, and (blush) shopping. Her dream is to one day have a home library just like the one pictured in Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” (She keeps telling her husband she needs more bookshelves and he tells her to “just stop buying books.” It’s then that she loves to quote the prophet regarding having good books in our homes!) Sasha loves to do laundry.
Classes
The Sizzle, Spice, and Specifics of Unit Studies - Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
Terrible or Terrific? Home Schooling with Toddlers in the Midst - Thursday 4:00 - 5:00 PM
Come, Follow Me – Homeschooling in the Footsteps of the Savior - Friday 11:00AM-12:00PM
Bringing the Scriptures into Every School Subject (part 1) - Friday 1:30-2:30 PM
Bringing the Scriptures into Every School Subject (part 2) - Friday 2:45-3:45 PM
Earl Taylor
“Earl Taylor and the NCCS has made the Founders’ story so easy to understand and so economical to have in our home. From now on, our family will be into this much more!” —NCCS Seminar Attendee
Earl Taylor, President of the National Center for Constitutional Studies, has taught The Making of America Constitutional Study course to thousands of people over the past twenty years throughout the nation. He has developed other study courses for a wide range of participants, from high school students to state legislators.
Educated in Washington State and Arizona, Mr. Taylor graduated from Arizona State University and received his Masters Degree in Political Science from George Wythe College and Coral Ridge Baptist University. He has had the privilege of being privately tutored by Dr. W. Cleon Skousen over the course of many years. He became President of the National Center for Constitutional Studies in 1995, an organization founded by Dr. Skousen in 1971 as the Freemen Institute. The purpose of the NCCS is to teach Americans the exciting message of the Founding Fathers – where they got their great ideas and how they put them all together into a Constitution for the establishment of the first free people in modern times. In 1998, Mr. Taylor was awarded an Honorary Doctor of Law degree from George Wythe College and Coral Ridge Baptist University. He also serves as a member of the adjunct faculty of George Wythe College.
Mr. Taylor served as coordinator in 1985 of the Winter Conference for State Legislators where nearly 400 elected officials from 30 states met to study The Making of America. He has written a special study guide for Boy Scouts to help them earn their Citizenship Merit Badges. He also helped structure courses on the U. S. Constitution for college re-certification of public school teachers.
In his desire to begin to train young people in this most important area, Mr. Taylor established one of the first charter high schools in Arizona, Heritage Academy, where he has developed a special curriculum for the teaching of hundreds of students the exciting message of the Founding Fathers. Mr. Taylor has also been instrumental in encouraging the celebration of Constitution Week in many cities and schools throughout the nation. Mr. Taylor and his wife, Ruth, are the parents of ten children and reside in Mesa, Arizona.
Earl Taylor will be speaking on the Miracle of the Constitution - listen to interview with Earl Taylor
Classes
Vendor Workshop: The 28 Principles of Liberty —A Miracle that Changed the World - Thursday 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
A More Perfect Union - Friday 1:30-2:30 PM
Gregory van Duyse
Gregory and his wife Evelyn have been home schooling their five children (10, 8, 7, 2 years old and a new baby!) for the past five years in Montreal,Canada. They have been inspired by the Lord to educate them and consider it a blessing. Gregory is an entrepreneur and loves to be engaged in building the Kingdom. The 2004 LDSEHE conference inspired him to help make the conference accessible to as many saints as possible. He feels it is a pleasure to work beside so many good people who strive to building the kingdom of God one child at a time. Gregory has contributed in exceptional ways towards developing the vision, clarifying the mission, and ordering the organizational framework of LDSEHE. His leadership and support of the executive board is extremely valuable and appreciated.
Classes
Love of Learning in Our Home - TJEd Wednesday 11:00AM-12:00PM
Denise Ward
Married to Craig Ward for 26 years. I'm a mom to twelve kids, ages 25-3yrs. Seven girls, and five boys. I also have two grandchildren, with more on the way. I've been homeschooling 11 years--I can't believe it's been that long!!! I started homeschooling when my oldest hit high school. One day I had finally had enough of the rat race and pulled all my children out of public school in the middle of a year. I have four homeschool graduates, (BYU, BYUI and SVU and one on a mission) and eight still in homeschool. Preschool through 12th grade. I've had four babies while homeschooling, so I know how hard it is to teach multiple grades, and handle babies at the same time! I've learned organization is a blessing, not a chore.
Classes
Happy Mommy: Tips to Help New Homeschool Moms… - Wednesday Beginners 3:30- 4:30 PM
Katie Wilson
Katie Wilson and her husband, Dave, are the parents of four children, three boys (ages 13, 11 and 7) and one girl (age 4). They live in Virginia and have been homeschooling for eight years. She served for 5 years as a seminary teacher, and is currently enjoying sleeping past 5 a.m.! Katie also enjoys singing, directing choirs and composing music.
Katie grew up in Northern Virginia and for the most part, enjoyed her own public school experiences. After graduating from BYU with a B.S. in Psychology and a minor in English, she returned to Virginia with West-Coast husband, Dave, in tow. She continued her studies at George Mason University, where she received her Master’s Degree in School Psychology. Although she always knew she would stay home with her children when they were small, Katie never suspected that she would be homeschooling them. In fact, throughout her graduate program she was firmly committed to making public schools better. However, by the time her oldest son started 1st grade, Katie knew that homeschooling was the path her family was to take. She started attending LDSEHE home education conferences in 2002 and has been serving as the secretary since 2006.
The Wilsons love to take road trips, spend time with extended family and read. Their favorite part of the day is dog-piling on the couch while Mom reads aloud.
Classes
What Does TJEd Look Like in Your Home? - TJEd Wednesday 3:30- 4:30 PM
The Power of Family Reading - Friday 9:45- 10:45 AM
Jeremy Wise, PhD.
Jeremy Wise is Dir. Of R&D for Educational Help, Inc, the parent company of Reading Success Lab. Jeremy was born in Cleveland, Ohio and grew up in Cleveland and New York City. After graduating high school he attended Cornell University and received a B.S. degree in 1969. After graduating, he spent 3 years teaching Junior High Science. In 1972 he entered the University of Massachusetts enrolled in a physics Ph.D. program. In 1979 he was awarded a Ph.D. in Experimental Particle Physics. After finishing graduate school, Jeremy left the world of physics for computer software and hardware development. He has developed software used by NASA, Kimberly Clark and numerous smaller entities. He has developed software for controlling computerized exercise equipment and analyzing human motion in addition to developing the Reading Success Lab software.
Classes
Vendor Workshop: Computerized Educational Assessments and Interventions from Reading Success Lab - Friday 11:00 - 12:00 AM
Dr. David Wright
“David Wright’s presentation is a hair raising, science filled, roller coaster of FUN! His hands on experiments make science come to life. He is enthusiastic, energetic and witty. He is Virginia Beach’s Science Guy.” – Kari B., Virginia
Dr. David Wright has his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Physics from Brigham Young University, and his PhD in Physics from Virginia Tech. He teaches Physics and Astronomy at Tidewater Community College in Virginia Beach, VA, where he has been for 33 years. He has appeared on “Live with Regis and Kathy Lee” and “Late Night with Conan O’Brien”. He is Dr. D in the “NASA Science Files” TV show. He also performs Physics shows at Busch Gardens in both Williamsburg, VA and Tampa, FL. He has a wife and four grown children. He has served as a Bishop and a Stake President, and currently serves as Stake Young Men President.
Classes
Evening Entertainment - Wednesday 7:00- 10:00 PM
Making Science Fun - Thursday 11:00AM-12:00PM
Science in Religion - Youth Thursday 1:30- 2:30 PM
Panel Members
Jamie Anderson
Jamie Anderson, a current resident of VA and mother of 4, has been home-schooling “officially” for 4 years. During her undergraduate studies, she felt inspired that at some point in her future, she would need to teach her children at home. Subsequently, she received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary and Special Education from Brigham Young University- Hawaii. Her home-schooling approach has evolved from traditional conveyor belt to a mixture of TJE and classical. Jamie and her husband, Travis, enjoy their role as the primary educators and mentors for their children—who range in age from eight to two years. As a family, they enjoy spending their free time accomplishing running goals, drawing, studying a good read, playing soccer and softball, and are big fans of outdoor recreation.
Andrew Behnke
Andrew O. Behnke, PhD, is assistant professor of human development and an extension parent specialist at North Carolina State University in Raleigh. He holds master’s and doctoral degrees in family studies from Utah State University and Purdue University. He conducts applied research in many areas, including academic achievement among Latino youth, parent involvement in academics, and family and community partnerships. He is married to his best friend and has three adventuresome boys and one little princess of a daughter.
Michelle Carbee
Michelle and her husband Todd have been homeschooling their two boys, Chase (17) and Bryce (15) since they were born. This year they have added homeschooling their niece, Brooke, age 11, to their routine as she came to live with them in September. Michelle has been active in homeschooling by organizing and running group activities and classes for the past 8+ years. She has taught a class for LDSEHE in the past. This is her first year of working with the Conference Committee.
Shawn Coombs
Shawn Coombs grew up in St. George , Utah with 2 brothers and 4 sisters. He served his mission in Guayaquil , Ecuador and attended Dixie College , where he was the Student Body President and Sophomore Student of the Year. He then finished his Degree in Civil Engineering at Brigham Young University , where he met his amazing wife, Melissa. They are the proud parents of 5 children, and have been homeschooling for over 7 years. His wife says that while she is the main teacher in their homeschool, Shawn is the much-appreciated and talented “entertainment committee!” Although Shawn travels frequently with his job and currently serves as Bishop in his ward, he still finds time to enjoy rappelling, hiking, camping, and other outdoor adventures with his family.
Lindsey Forero
Lindsey and her husband Fernando live in Virginia. They began homeschooling their seven children four years ago. They started thinking about homeschooling when they had their first child but didn’t actually start until he turned ten. Lindsey loves teaching her children at home and can’t believe it took them so long to begin. Science is her favorite subject to teach. Over the years, Lindsey, has taught science classes within her homeschool group and is currently putting together a cooking class for her girls. She currently serves as the sunbeam teacher and the wolf/bear cub scout leader for her ward. Lindsey enjoys working on her homeschool blog, reading, baking, scouting, collecting shells at the beach, playing games with her family and going to museums.
Cheri Frary
After celebrating 26 years of living in Virginia, Cheri Frary, a Wyoming native, finally feels like it’s home. Certainly all ten of the Frary children consider themselves easterners. Cheri and her husband, John, have been raising their brood in northern Virginia suburbia and have just completed their 17th year of homeschooling.
Cheri received an Associate Degree from Ricks College and then went on to BYU where, while waiting for a mission call, she met John. Instead of entering the LTM (now known as the MTC), she entered the temple with John and they were married. After struggling to both finish their degrees (Cheri was in labor with her last final), they settled in Nebraska for four years and then moved to Virginia. Cheri has a B.S. in Early Childhood Education. She is also a musician, a piano teacher, a grandma and a florist.
The Frarys began homeschooling the year after comprehensive sex education was put in place in Virginia schools. Their oldest had just finished seventh grade. Originally they made this move as a response but soon began to see the benefits that are inherent in homeschooling. It has become a way of life for their family. They now have 2 college grads, 6 college students (one in grad school), and only three studying at home. Cheri’s approach to schooling has been varied and has fluctuated according to the needs of each child. She has discovered through the years that not only are there no perfect students or perfect teachers, there is no perfect curriculum and has a complete library which proves it. She has also discovered that the book which was unused for years and finally sold is exactly the one a particular child needs now. Just like life, homeschooling if full of surprises.
John Frary
John and Cheri are the parents of ten children and have home schooled for over 18 years. They have been married for 32 years. John works as a Security consultant/contractor in Information Assurance. He has spent over 25 years in retail businesses and possess extensive customer service skills. He was a training manager for many years training hundreds of managers, in operations, HR, P&L responsibilities. He served a mission to France in the early 70's. He met Cheri at BYU and they finished their Baccalaureate degrees at the university. John has been active in Boy Scouts for over thirty years. He and Cheri have been active in numerous church callings, and are waiting patiently to spoil their grandchildren.
Jennifer Georgia
Jennifer grew up in Idaho , became a critical care nurse, served a mission in Peru , married her sweetheart, and has four "blessings" (children). Jennifer keeps busy homeschooling her children, while serving as Relief Society President and working part-time as a nurse. The Georgias began homeschooling when their oldest child was three. Now, that child is successfully navigating her freshman year of college! Jennifer says: “What a blessing homeschooling has been to us -- allowing us to spend lots of time together, prompting us to have deep, important discussions, helping us to enjoy each other and have fun together.” Her homeschool has evolved over the years; from a traditional "public-school" type approach to other options, including Classical Education, Charlotte Mason, and Thomas Jefferson Education. The Georgias live in Virginia.
Julie Hansen
Julie Hansen is becoming an “expert” in cramped-quarters-homeschooling (which started with a return to student life) with her husband, 6-year old daughter, and almost 4-year old son. Her husband recently graduated from law school and they are now enjoying all that city life has to offer in the Washington D.C. metro area, fourteen stories above the ground. After studying elementary education at BYU, she was a regional manager for eight years and a gourmet foods business owner. For the last five years, Julie was mentored in behavior and habit training for a child’s early years by a large group of homeschool moms. After visiting the homes of over 40 homeschool moms, she has learned techniques to parent with love and without anger and to enjoy the art of being fully present with her children. Julie enjoy’s her co-ops that focus on Teri Ebert’s work and Montessori manipulative presentation. When she is not schooling, she enjoys reading, mentoring, correspondence, walking to everything, museums, and doing anything at all with her husband.
Tina Nokes
Tina Nokes has homeschooled her four sons for eight years. Two of her sons are currently attending BYU. She has researched and implemented different teaching philosophies, methods, and techniques, as well as advised several beginning homeschoolers on how to get started. She lives with her family in Vienna , VA.
Cynthia Olson
Cynthia and Jarom Olson have been married for over 10 years, have 3 beautiful daughters (ages 4, 6 and 9) and are in the process of adopting another child. They began homeschooling their oldest daughter a few months after first grade began. Cynthia’s passion for learning has increased since beginning homeschooling. She loves that each child can be taught at her own level and speed, with an individualized schedule, to receive her own “private education.” Cynthia feels “blessed to spend every day with [my children]…seeing their stepping stones accomplished instead of just hearing about them. What a blessing to be so involved in their lives!”
Bente Rodriguez
Bente Rodriguez and her husband, Todd, have been married for 14 years and have 9 wonderful children (ages 12, 10, 9, 7, 6, 5, 3, 2 and 4 months). They started homeschooling when their oldest child reached kindergarten age. At first, they were “taking one year at a time,” but eventually decided that homeschooling was just a way of life for them. Over the years, Bente has used a variety of approaches, including making her own curriculum, using The Well Trained Mind, using a charter school and a combination of the above. She continues to fine-tune and adjust their homeschool as her children grow. Bente says, “Situations change, and we adjust and just keep moving forward…learning and growing together.” The Rodriguez family resides in Ohio .
Sherry Veach
Sherry Veach has four children aged 16, 14, 11, and 5. She and her husband, Jeff, have been homeschooling for 6 years. Sherry graduated from BYU with a B.S. in Clothing and Textiles and was married the next day in the Salt Lake City temple. The Veach family has lived in New Jersey , Switzerland and currently lives in North Carolina . Sherry loves to read, travel, swim and even quilt when she has the time (which is not very often!).
Juventa Vezzani
Juventa grew up in the Washington D.C. area, and currently lives in Charles Town, West Virginia. Juventa graduated from BYU Provo with a BA in Latin American Studies. She and her husband, Dave, have 5 children (ages 10, 9, 7, 4 and 2) who are their greatest treasures and opportunities for growth. In addition to being a wife, homemaker and homeschool mom, Juventa enjoys music composition, scrapbooking and is currently writing a cookbook for families with milk allergies. Of homeschooling, Juventa says “There is nothing quite like watching [my children’s] testimonies and their understanding of the world around them grow on a daily basis.”
Dana Wood
Dana and her husband, Spencer, have been homeschooling their 10 children since 1987. As a military family, they have lived all over the country, including 9 years in Alaska. Besides homeschooling, Dana enjoys reading, sewing, gardening, knitting and quilting. As LDSEHE Vice President, Dana is primarily responsible for the extraordinary success of our youth education conference over the past two years. She is also becoming an oft-requested and trusted speaker. She and her family reside in New Jersey.