Current

Military Families Homeschool Support Meeting

Just a reminder about our next Military Families Homeschool Support Meeting. June 26, 2009 2:30pm-3:30pm at the Airman & Family Readiness Center, Randolph AFB. Children are welcome but there is no childcare available at this time.

We have several new families to Randolph who are homeschoolers and a couple that have been here but are choosing to homeschool next  year.  I hope that they will be there and if you can be there to introduce yourselves and maybe share about groups & co-ops you are a part of to help them decide where to "plug " in to in San Antonio. The purpose of this group is to be a conduit of information for all military homeschoolers(active duty, reserve, & retired) and to allow a platform of discussion to raise any requests or concerns on how Randolph AFB and the military as a whole can better meet the needs of it homeschooling families. Already we have seen progress and it is exciting. For instance...the "interest list" at the base fitness center for family friendly exercise classes is already two pages long!  That helps all military families, too, not just homeschoolers.

I have two large binders full of homeschool "stuff" for the Airman & Family Readiness Center, but I still need your input.
Please continue to send me flyers, cards, etc about homeschool friendly activities and businesses.
Also, I would like to compile a list of community service opportunities.  Please send me any info you have or recommendations. Have a great rest of the week and I look forward to seeing you next Friday! 
 
Blessings,
Sandi Killough
killough4him@yahoo.com

Home School Book Swap

Buy and sell gently used curriculum and books. No entry fee or table fee. Please contact Oly Schaefer to reserve a table. 659-6833 or olypops@yahoo.com

Tuesday, June 30th
Northern Oaks church of Christ
17435 Redland Road
(Just inside 1604)
9am-noon

MTV True Life: I'm Homeschooled

My name is Morgan Robinson and I'm helping to produce and episode of MTV’s award-winning documentary series, “True Life,” about young people who are homeschooled.  We’re looking for people who want to tell their stories, share their opinions, and possibly dispel some misconceptions about what it really means to learn at home.  

Our goal -- as with all episodes of “True Life” -- is to help MTV’s young audience understand why many young people, and their parents, choose to homeschool.  We also want to show the benefits and challenges that home-schooled kids experience on a daily basis. We will treat the people who participate in this documentary -- and the educational, philosophical or religious beliefs they possess -- with respect.  

I'm reaching out to you in the hopes of finding young people with particularly interesting homeschooling stories who would like to share their stories on this episode of True Life.  I'm also hoping you would be open to helping us spread the word about this important documentary by distributing our flyer to people in your network.  We are considering both sports and non-sports related homeschool stories.  I've attached our flyer that provides more information about the episode, which you are welcome to distribute to anyone and everyone who might wish to share their story.

I look forward to hearing from you and hearing your ideas.  Please call or email me know if you know of any stories or if you can help us spread the word, 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Morgan Robinson
Associate Producer
718-422-0705
morgan@punchedinthehead.com
TLhomeschool@gmail.com

More Camps

Choreography Workshop. Erica Wilson-Perkins. 11 a.m. -1 p.m. Berta Almaguer Dance, 138 S. Josephine Tobin Drive. $40. Call 207-3132 for more information.

The Alamo Summer Camp

Session One July 6 – 10, 2009
Session Two July 13 - 17, 2009
Session Three August 3, - 7, 2009
The Alamo invites children ages 9 to 14 to make new friends, have fun and engage themselves in the history of the Texas Revolution and the Alamo. Learn what it was like to live in 1830’s to 1840’s Texas.
Some activities include:
Alamo History, School of the Soldier, Period Cooking, Fire Starting, Period Crafts, Period Games and Toys.
For more information Contact: Sherri Driscoll or Ernesto Rodriguez
erodriguez@thealamo.org 210-225-1391 x 28

Witte Summer Adventure Club

Summer Adventure Club at the Witte Museum is a great way for kids, grades 1-2 & 3-5, to explore the people, environment, science and history of this incredible place we call South Texas. Also, investigate the mystery of time in the summer exhibit Playing with Time.
All sessions are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Cost per week is $180 for museum members and $230 for non-members. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required to hold reservations. Limited, need-based scholarships are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Scholarships are generously provided by USAA Federal Savings Bank. To make a reservation call 210.357.1910 or for more information click HERE.

Home School Book Swap
Buy and sell gently used curriculum and books.
 
Tuesday, June 30th
Northern Oaks church of Christ
17435 Redland Road
(Just inside 1604)
9am-noon
No entry fee or table fee.
 
Please contact Oly Schaefer to reserve a table.
659-6833 or olypops@yahoo.com

Children's Vegetable Garden Program

The San Antonio Botanical Garden in partnership with Texas AgriLife Extension Service, provide an opportunity for children to grow their own vegetables and ornamental plants with the help of mentors from the Bexar County Master Gardeners.  Each child is allotted one plot, approximately 4’x 28’ in size. Children have fun growing different types of seeds, herbs, vegetables, and ornamental annual flowers. Weekly educational presentations pertaining to gardening will stimulate these young minds as well as children participate in fun, hands-on Junior Master Gardener activities after they have tended their garden chores.
 
In order to gain the most from the learning experience and to help ensure successful growing, participants are required to attend all sessions (two absences are allowed). Families are welcome to share the gardening experience with their child(ren); however, parents should remember that this is the child’s plot and learning experience.
 
How to Apply:
Legibly complete the attached application and submit it to the San Antonio Botanical Garden no later then Friday, July 24, 2009.  
Space is limited, so apply early. The submission of an application does not necessarily confirm acceptance into the program. 
Acceptance in the program will be based on completeness of the application and willingness to attend each Saturday morning session (two absences are allowed). Participants accepted into the program will be notified by August 16.

Submit Fall 2009’ Application no later then Friday, July 24, 2009 to:                               
Children’s Vegetable Garden Program
San Antonio Botanical Garden
555 Funston  ·  San Antonio, TX 78209
    

Upcoming Camps

San Antonio Museum of Art. What's in Your Museum? Stories and Myths from Around the World Monday - Friday, June 15 -19, 10 am to 4 pm Ages 6 to 8. $200/member, $225/non-member. Call 210.978.8183 to register. Space is limited.

Junior Naturalist Summer Camps June 15-19; Ages 6-8 years
July 6-10; Ages 9-12 years. 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Explore nature as you learn outdoor skills including native plant identification, birding, fishing, hiking and ethnobotany. Fee: $175/wk ($150 Botanical Society members)

Junior Gardener Summer Camps June 22-26; Ages 6-8 years.
July 13-17; Ages 9-12 years. 9:00 AM-4:30 PM. Participants get their hands on horticulture from flowers and vegetables to basic botany and garden design. With the help of garden experts, kids will learn to plant from seed, take cuttings, and design their own garden. Fee: $175/wk ($150 Botanical Society members)

Online Writing Workshops for Summer and Fall

My name is Jamie Miranda, founder and coordinator of Haven Home Educators. After homeschooling my own sons for 15 years, all of whom are now in college (one in grad school at Texas A & M University, one at Baylor University, and one at Texas State University), I returned to college to finish my degree. I have earned a Bachelor of Arts in English, graduating Magna Cum Laude, and have worked for the past two years to the present as an English, history, and speech tutor (Tutor V) at St. Philip's College as I attend grad school. In that capacity, I have developed two writing courses: a junior high creative writing course that focuses on poetry and short fiction, and 2) a high school composition class that mirrors college freshman composition. Both classes are online and consist of a series of weekly modules emailed to students and parents. The courses last twelve weeks. I limit the number of students in these courses so that I may provide quality feedback on student work. Comments such as, "Great job" or "Nice work" do not give students any information on how to improve their writing skills. I provide a combination of constructive criticism and praise to build confidence and enable students to hone their skills as writers. Registration for both summer and fall has begun. In developing these courses, I have combined expressivist, critical, and process teaching methods to impart skills to students in what I call a hybridized pedagogy. Even strong writers can benefit from detailed commentary to enable them to strengthen their writing further. The summer courses begin June 19, and the fall courses begin September 19. The deadline to sign up for summer is June 14. and Sept. 10 for fall. Space is very limited for the fall. Please feel free to pass this information along. For course outlines/syllabi and fees, please contact me at 210-733-1757, MirandaWorkshops@aol.com , or mypinkkoala@aol.com.

Curriculum Sale

Summit Christian Academy will be selling curriculum at the NW Home Educators Book Swap this Wednesday, June 10 from 9 am to 1 pm at NW Community Church at 8900 Guilbeau Road. We will be selling new curriculum at 25% off retail price and used curriculum at 50% off retail. The curriculum that we will be selling is listed below. Please feel free to email me at shawkins21@satx.rr.com if you would like additional information.

Story of the World (Volume I) Test and answer key
Story of the World Audio Set
All American History Book
Maps, Globes, Graphs Level E and F
Legends and Leagues Book and Workbook
Mystery of History Volumes I, II, III
The Light and the Glory trilogy
The Kids' Family Tree Book
The Family Keepsake Journal
A Reason For Science Level B, C & D
Phonics Museum Kinder and First Grade Sets
Phonetic Zoo Starter Set for 4th, 5th and 6th Grade
A Reason for Spelling Level A, B & C
Shurley Grammar Level 1, 2, 3 & 4
Math U See Primer, Alpha, Beta, Gamma & Delta (no manipulatives)
A Reason for Handwriting K-6th Teacher Guide
Handwriting Without Tears Cursive Success Teachers Edition
Bible for Children (Classical Academic Press) 

Free Lunches for Kids

Starting June 10 and ending July 7, Memorial Library is designated as a San Antonio Food Bank Summer Food Service Site. What does that mean? It means Memorial Library will start serving FREE lunches to kids, ages 1 to 18, Monday through Friday, in the Memorial Library Meeting Room!

Meals will be be served only between 12:00 noon and 1:00 pm. Sp please be sure to arrive during our set lunch hour to get your FREE lunch! We must observe strict government regulations and cannot serve before 12 noon or after 1:00 pm. Lunches are available on a first come, first serve basis, but let us know if your child will be joining us so we’ll have lunches for everyone! KIDS JOIN US FOR FREE LUNCHES THIS SUMMER!

Homeschool Research Survey

My name is Christine Bowman and I am a master's candidate in the Higher Education Administration program at the University of Texas. As a 15 year admission professional at Southwestern University, I have worked with many home school students and have been studying this population in relation to the college admission process. As part of an independent study, I am collecting data regarding perceptions from homeschool students and parents and would appreciate your insight. Below you will find two links to my survey--one for a student who is either A JUNIOR, SENIOR OR ENROLLING HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMAN IN THE FALL OF 2009, the other for the parent of the aforementioned student.  Each survey asks approximately 15 questions and should take no longer than 10 minutes to complete.

I appreciate your willingness to assist in my research and welcome any questions you may have to my email address: bowmanc@southwestern.edu
 
Christine D. Bowman
Master's Candidate 2010, University of Texas at Austin Associate Director of Admission, Southwestern University
 
Homeschool Student Survey Link:
 
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=2LDfeoIErGC6ZNZRSKgC0w_3d_3d
 
Homeschool Parent Survey Link:
 
http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=DhECOhdxh3ZRWarSD5suZQ_3d_3d

Texas Music Coalition 2009 Jack Skiles Music Scholarship

This scholarship continues the legacy of Jack Skiles, a noted musician and member of TMC, who fostered the growth of local community music, and is open to all South Texas residents currently enrolled in music classes on a high school (including home school), technical college, junior college, or university level, such as:

•  Music composition
• Music education
• Music/sound engineering
• Music journalism
• Music management
• Music performance (vocal or instrumental)
• Music production
• Music theory
• Music therapy
• Entertainment law

If you reside in South Central Texas and are currently enrolled in music composition, music education, music/sound engineering,
music journalism, music management, music performance (vocal or instrumental), music production, music theory, music therapy, or
entertainment law classes on either a high school (including home school), technical college, junior college, university level, you are
invited to share your talents, skills, and career goals for the opportunity to receive a one time award to assist you in furthering your studies. This scholarship is awarded to the applicant who best demonstrates their ambition to pursue a career in the music industry;
exhibits strong abilities in their field; and has maintained a good academic record. Previous and/or current membership with TMC is not a requirement. Previous and/or current

This year, the scholarship will give the winning student a Grand Prize of $500 to further their studies; the second-place student will receive $250 toward their studies.  Both students, and one or more runners-up, will also receive a complimentary one-year membership in TMC. To find out more, please visit TMC’s website, www.texasmusiccoalition.org/a>, or contact Scholarship Chair Nikki Young at 210.822.3552 or scholarship@texasmusiccoalition.org..

Teen Robotics Camp at Northwest Vista College/a>

San Antonio Homeschool Baseball

The San Antonio Homeschool Wolverines Baseball club is looking for
high school aged baseball players. We are a homeschool varsity level
baseball team. Unlike the traditional schools, finding players for a
homeschool team can be challenging. Based upon the numbers of
homeschool baseball teams in the Dallas and Houston areas, we are
convinced that there are players in the San Antonio area that we are
not finding.

Our organization is currently a varsity level team. We compete under
the rules of the Homeschool World Series Association. For varsity
baseball, the player must:
1. Be homeschooled on Jan 1 of the season that the player is
participating. This would be Jan of 2010 for next Spring.
22. Be at least 13 years of age and no more than 19 years of age as of the start of the academic school year (Sept 1, 2009).
3. Be certified at least 8th grade by the parents/guardians that are participating in the homeschooling of the player. An 8th grader is allowed 5 years of eligibility.
4. Be in good academic standing, as certified by the parent/guardian
of the player.

If we are able to get enough players, we will form a middle school and a JV program. This will mean that we are interested in contacting
players in 7th grade or above. We have started summer practice and plan to have a Fall camp to prepare for the Spring Season.

I would ask that you help us "get the word out" regarding the
availability of homeschool baseball in the San Antonio area. We are
looking for players with character and class, that are willing to work
hard to build a quality program. If you know of interested players
have them contact me by e-mail at sasoefje@sahomeschoolbaseball.org or
go to our website www.sahomeschoolbaseball.org.

I truly appreciate any help that you can provide as we are looking to
improve the quality of homeschool baseball in the San Antonio area.

Scott Soefje
President
San Antonio Homeschool Athletic Association
sasoefje@sahomeschoolbaseball.org

Animal Botanical

9 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. This multi-themed, five-day camp is for youth ages six and older with special needs. Animal Botanical activities include education on animals and plants living in the garden, crafts, recreation, music and daily snacks. Camp is located in the air-conditioned Auld House at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Fee: $125/wk.

Jr. Naturalists Ages 6-8 years. 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Explore nature as you learn outdoor skills including native plant identification, birding, fishing, hiking and ethnobotany. Fee: $175/wk.

June 15-19th. San Antonio Botanical Garden, 555 Funston Place. 207-3250. www.sabot.org.

You Rock! Get Outdoors Camp

Pre-registration deadline for You Rock! Get Outdoors Camp for youngsters in grades fourth through seventh in Jun 29th. The camp is July 6 - 10, 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Suggested donation is $50. Limited to 15 campers. Medina River Natural Area, 15890 Highway 16 South. Campers will learn about ethnobotany, geological forces of nature and GPS tree inventory techniques with nature craft activities included. 624-2575.

New Braunfels Swimming Lessons

All classes are held Tuesday - Friday. Class make-ups are held on Mondays. Fees are $45 for residents and non-residents. Parent Orientation will be held the Monday before each session begins.  Orientation starts at 5:30pm at the Landa Haus located directly next door to the Aquatic Complex.  Orientation is not mandatory, however, it is strongly encouraged that parents/guardians attend as valuable information will be given.  Come meet the Swim Instructors and learn important information about our program!  

Register soon - many popular times and age groups fill quickly!
Register via phone at 830-221-4350, 830-221-4370 or in person at the Parks Office or Landa Rec. Center.
http://www.nbtexas.org/index.aspx?NID=395

San Antonio Homeschool Baseball Summer Workouts

The San Antonio Wolverines, a high school level baseball team for homeschoolers, is starting their summer workouts. These will be held at Bain field on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2 PM. Bain field is on the corner of McCoullough and Basse Rds near the Quarry Market.

To play a player must meet the following criteria:

1.  Be participating in homeschool as of Jan 1 of the year we are playing.
2.  Be at least 13 years of age as of the beginning of the school calendar year (usually Sept 1)
3.  Be listed as an 8th grader by the parents/guardians of the homeschool student.
4.  Be listed as being in good standing academically by the parents.

We believe homeschool students should have the right to compete for baseball scholarships and recognition.  We strive to provide a team that provides for these goals. If you have questions contact:  admin@sahomeschoolbaseball.org or visit www.sahomeschoolbaseball.org for more information.

New Homeschool Broadway Offers

Feel free to pass this onto anyone who might be interested. These offers are open to homeschoolers, friends and family. Feel free to cross-post. If you order for any of these shows, please send an email to Susan Frederick at sjf@jsoft.com, that helps me keep track of if we are making our group min. The $5 circus in SA in particular is a real bargain!

Wicked! - They had enough inventory to put together one last offer for Wicked. This will expire May 28th!
Wednesday, June 17, 2009 at 8pm
Tuesday, June 23, 2009 at 8pm
Thursday, June 25, 2009 at 8pm
Sunday, June 28, 2009 at 730pm
Great discounts, tickets start at just $32!
Last offer from available inventory of tickets, new dates added.
Offer expires on May 29, 2009
226 tickets so far.

New Offer -
Ringling Brothers Circus at the Alamodome!
Wednesday, July 1, 2009 at 730pm
Thursday, July 2, 2009 at 730pm
Friday, July 3, 2009 at 730pm
Saturday, July 4, 2009 at 4pm
Sunday, July 5, 2009 at 3pm
Great discounts, tickets start at just $5!
Offer expires on June 29, 2009

Show Description - Ringling Brothers Circus Over the Top: OVER THE TOP, an all-new live entertainment extravaganza featuring the ultimate tug of war between Ringmaster Chuck Wagner and clown eccentric Tom Dougherty over a magical top hat that controls the circus. When the Ringmaster dons the hat he conjures stupendous spectacles for his circus like the stunt riding Royal Cossack Cavalry while the clown uses the hat to summon silly and whimsical acts for his circus such as a cavalry of goats riding on ponies in a Barnyard Bonanza. They continue to top one another until the Ringmaster and clown realize that the magic of the circus is not in the hat but in the hearts of everyone. The show culminates in an amazing display of gigantic glowing rainforest flowers surrounding Chinese acrobats swinging on vines and propelling through the air. Over the Top is two circuses in one providing excitement for the whole family.

You can also continue to order for Dora the Explorer through July 15th. Great discounts, tickets start at just $15.75! Special on Main floor seats - $24.25

http://www.jsoft.com/archive/taffie/BroadwaySA.html
Order your tickets by logging on to:
http://www.broadwayacrossamerica.com/groupsales
and enter your special password:
taffiesa

Home School Academics and Arts Class Day

Home School Academics and Arts Class Day is preparing for preregistration in classes for the year 2009 – 2010. Class offerings can be found at www.haaclassday.org. (Site is still under construction. Four forms will be required for registration.)

Preregistration: May 13, 2009 @ 2:30 at
The First Baptist Church of Bulverde
32445 US Hwy 281 North
Bulverde, Texas

For questions, please contact Sandy Graham at SandyG@gvtc.com.

Moving Waters Summer Art Camp Scholarship Opportunities

Students are invited to create art while exploring the Comal River.  Campers will observe what lives above and below the water and examine nature through contemporary art practices inspired by area-recognized artists.  Two one-week sessions are being offered in June.  If you live within the boundaries of the Edwards Aquifer Authority you may be eligible for a scholarship.  For more information contact Penelope Speier at (210) 913-1104.  To register contact Landa Parks and Rec at (830) 221-4370.  Moving Waters is sponsored by 04ARTS Foundation, New Braunfels Parks and Recreation Department, and the Edwards Aquifer Authority.

Create Art while Learning Nature’s Secrets
Location: Landa Park
Time: 10 am – 4 pm
Ages: 6 – 11
Fees: $250 per person*
Supervised art-making will take place in the park with snacks and drinks provided. BYO sack lunch to suit your taste. * A limited number of scholarships are available to students who enroll early.
Space is limited, so register today!
Camp Dates:
One Week Sessions:
June 8th – 12th
or June 22nd – 26th

Camp Humane

Summer Camp for Kids at the Humane Society

 It’s that time of year again! The Humane Society SPCA of Bexar County is hosting Camp Humane for children ages 8-10 from June 16-20, ages 11-13 from July 21-25 and ages 8-13 from August 4-8. Each day the camp will be held from 8:30am-5pm and the sessions are limited to 48 campers. The cost per session is $225 and this will include lunch (pizza and deli sandwiches), two snacks daily, one camp T-shirt, a bandana and a goody bag.

In order to promote humane education, we are going to have many fun and exciting animal activities and demonstrations for the children. Some of these are dog bathing, horse grooming and care, mammal introductions, first aid/CPR demonstrations, dog agility and guide dog demonstrations. We are excited to add reptiles from Sea World into our camp schedule this year.

We feel this is a great opportunity to educate and help children grow into wonderful young adults. Proper humane education and awareness will not only prepare and educate the children but it will also bring about a lifetime of happiness for the animals they treat kindly.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: (210) 226-7461 or www.humanesocietyspca.org

Registration for swimming lessons

May 16th. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. $25 for two-week sessions to be held during summer outdoor pool season. San Antonio Natatorium, 1430 W. Durango. Or register at outdoor pools offering lessons when pools open on June 6. 226-8541.

Help Needed for Environmental Science Class Project on Drinking Water

SA-HERO has a group conducting an environmental science project on drinking water. They are conducting a survey of people's attitudes about drinking and using recycled water. Below is the link. We would appreciate if you would take the few minutes (@ 5 minutes) to complete it. We want all ages to complete this survey. The results will be given to the city council and displayed in a library display. Please help our kids create a great project! If you have any questions contact Terry Duncan at tduncan1@satx.rr.com.

http://www.esurveyspro.com/Survey.aspx?id=f5a620c3-74eb-4b1d-b8a6-828b541045c9 

2009 Texas Governor's School

These are three week residential summer programs free for high school juniors and seniors. Last year, some of the programs extended their deadlines so it may not be too late to apply.

University of North Texas
Once again the University of North Texas is hosting the Texas Governor’s School in Math & Science for high achieving rising high school 11th graders from across the state. This three week residential program runs from June 7-June 27.  There is no cost to the student for the program, other than travel to and from Denton and personal expenses, while on the campus. We have provided an exceptional opportunity the past two years for hundreds of Texas students to experience college life and an expansion of knowledge in the areas of chemistry, physics, math, philosophy, history, music and art.  A variety of extracurricular activities are provided that range from student led activities, museum visits, and recreational activities.  Questions may be addressed to:  txgovschool@unt.edu visit our website at:  web3.unt.edu/tgs.  The application for 2009 must be postmarked by April 27.

Lamar University
"It was a life-changing experience for me." That comment is heard over and over from many participants in Governor's Schools throughout the nation. Encourage your students to attend the 2009 Lamar University Governor's school in Beaumont , Texas . The focus is on leadership development through mathematics, science, the humanities, and the arts. For an application, visit the Lamar University website www.lamar.edu and go to the College of Education, and then to the Governor’s School. It promises to be a GREAT program!

Texas A&M University in College Station
The Texas Governor's School in Arts and Humanities for Urban Leadership at Texas A&M University in College Station is a three-week intensive and exciting summer educational program from June 7-26, 2009 and is open to all qualified high-achieving Texas public high school students who will be in 11th or 12th grade in the 2009-2010 school year. The program will intentionally seek a diverse pool of applicants from every educational service center in the State of Texas . Applicants selected to attend the Governor's School will include female and male students from all racial, ethnic, cultural, social economic, linguistic, geographic, and gender groups. Every effort will be made to accommodate for students with special needs.  Students who are selected to attend the Governor's School will be responsible only for transportation to and from the Governor's School and other personal expenses such as linens, towels, toiletries, and other necessary personal supplies.

The Texas A&M University Governor's School philosophy, courses, staff, and activities can be found on our web page.  Students in the Texas A&M University Governor's School must demonstrate an interest in the arts, humanities, and urban leadership. High-achieving students might include one or more of the following: ranked in the top 10% of their class; excellent scores in TAKS test, SAT, or other similar tests; are currently enrolled in a gifted and talented program; are student government or community leaders; or, excel in one or more of the arts and humanities. Students will be responsible for documenting their interest in the program, qualifications, and evidence of high achievement in the application materials. For more information about the Texas A&M Governor's School, see the Frequently Asked Questions page on our web site:  http://governorschool.tamu.edu/.

Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi
Come to the beautiful island university – Texas A&M University – Corpus Christi , to participate in the newest Governor’s School in Texas . The Governor’s Academy for Teaching Excellence (GATE)Texas high school students who are interested in teaching careers, especially in the fields of mathematics and/or science at the elementary or secondary levels. The program will run from July 12 – August 1, 2009. Students participating in GATE will be enrolled in a full-credit university-level teacher education course. The program includes leadership training, field trips, guest speakers, mentorship from exceptional educators, and firsthand teaching experience in our "Kid's College," a summer program for younger students. - is a free three-week summer residential enrichment program for talented
In addition to tuition, the program will cover the costs of food, lodging, and instructional materials. Stipends are available for participants who express need. Additionally, GATE will cover travel costs (mileage or airline ticket) for students traveling more than 100 miles to Corpus Christi . For more information or to print a copy of the student application packet, go to http://gate.tamucc.edu.

Free Summer Robotics Program UTSA

This summer iTECH at UTSA will be holding several robotics camps.  These camps will be held at UTSA's 1604 campus.  Elementary age students are invited to participate in the first camp session to be held June 15-June 26.  Middle schoolers are invited to attend our second session June 29-July 10.  Both sessions will start at 8:30 am until 2:00pm. iTECH will provide both breakfast and lunch to all participants.  There is no cost to attend these camps, parents will have to register their students, and provide transportation to and from the UTSA 1604 campus.

Our elementary age program is open to students that have completed 3rd grade through sixth grade. The middle school program is open to students in 6th through 8th grade.  Sixth grade students may attend either camp.  These camps are geared to meet the needs of under served/inner city students and students with learning issues, although any student may apply to attend the program.  If your school is looking to host a First Lego League Team in the fall, or a GEARS team in the spring, these camps will prepare your students to compete in these programs.

All campers will be working in teams consisting of four people.  Each group will have access to an NXT robotics kit, assuring plenty of hands on time for the kids.  We will work on robot design and programing.  Campers will participate in a camp wide robotics tournament the last two days of the camp session.  Many of our mentors will be students who have competed in robotics at the international level, it is our hope that your students will gain some "real game" experience from these mentors.

Please feel free to direct any questions to Mary Stowers, via email, stowers.mary@gmail.com or to Moses Thompson at Moses.Thompson@utsa.edu. 

Water - A Living Lesson

Join us July 7 - 10 at Our Lady of the Lake University for the
2009 Summer Water Conference for Educators!

We have a lot in store for formal and non-formal educators at the 2009 Summer Water Conference for Educators titled Water: A Living Lesson.  Sponsored by the Edwards Aquifer Authority, Our Lady of the Lake University, San Antonio River Authority, and San Antonio Water System, this conference will provide a unique opportunity for educators to learn innovative, interactive, and tested methods of teaching water subjects. The conference’s target audience includes both formal and non-formal educators in settings serving Kindergarten through 12th grade.

This FREE conference will explore practical, up-to-date examples of successful educational programs and materials throughout fifty interactive sessions. Workshops and field trips will provide educators with physical resources and strategies for developing comprehensive water lessons to take back into the classroom. In addition, State Board of Education Credit (SBEC) as well as Gifted and Talented credit is available

Take advantage of this opportunity to meet people who have similar objectives and challenges and are concerned about the water issues facing our region.

Come and interact:

• Expand your collection of field, lab, and classroom activity options
• Learn creative ways to teach water concepts
• Broaden your water expertise
• Share your experiences at Share Fair
• Learn about products, services, programs and more at the Exhibit Fair
• Take a field trip
• Earn SBEC and GT credits
• And More!

We have already reached almost 100 registrants for this FREE conference meaning that space is becoming limited and that some elements like pre-conference field trips are almost full!

Once you register for the entire conference, you can then put together your own schedule of workshops that fit your needs
(**Exception-You must pre-register for any pre-conference field trip. Please see registration form for more information). We hope to see you all in July. If you have any additional questions, please
contact me at 210-233-3631.

Greg Wukasch
SAWS Education
http://www.wateralivinglesson.org/

College Algebra CLEP Course by Mrs. Bauml

College Algebra CLEP Course. Taught by Pauline Bauml on Mondays: May 18, 25; June 1, 8 from 10 – 12 noon. Cost: $50.  Materials provided. Call Pauline Bauml 210-287-1898 for registration.  
Site TBA

Scholastic Warehouse Book Sale

Build school, classroom, and home libraries at a fraction of the price at Scholastic Book Fairs BIG Event! Exclusively for educators and Book Fair chairpeople / volunteers, you'll find thousands of great books at incredible savings. Plus, choose from hundreds of items for $1 or less!

Register online now and receive a special coupon to save $10 off a purchase of $60-$100 or $15 off a purchase of $100 or more!

http://www.scholastic.com/bookfairs/events/warehouse/

Scholastic Book Fairs
Thu., 05/07/2009 - Sat., 5/23/2009
May 7th (P O Day): 9am - 7pm
Weekdays: 9am - 7pm
Saturdays: 9am - 5pm
Closed Sundays

4646 Perrin Creek Suite 200
San Antonio, TX 78217
(800) 633-4270
East On Loop 410
Exit 26 B Perrin Creek
Straight at Stop Sign
Enter Industrial Park
Second Building On Left

Enroll Children in the Math & Science Summer Academy

St. Philip's College is taking applications for the St. Philip's College Math & Science Summer Academy that runs from July 13 through Aug. 7 in the Science Building on the college’s Martin Luther King campus. Applications are being accepted until April 30 with acceptance letters being mailed in May. The Academy focuses on fun math and science activities for students grades 8-12 from San Antonio and surrounding areas. The Academy offers students the opportunity to see math and science in action. Themes for the 2009 Academy include Energy; Ecology & Pollution; Geology & Oceanography; and Space Exploration. Students will go on weekly field trips centered around lessons taught in class.  Main campus number is 531-3200.

REACH Used Book Sale

Here it is!  The info you've been waiting for about the REACH Used Book Sale.  Read carefully as there will be lots of good stuff sprinkled throughout this email!  Because you will not be manning your own table, all books will be "dropped off" and sold on a consignment- type basis.  "Drop off" will be explained below.  Since REACH hasn't used this way of having a used book sale, I will be explaining in detail all the info you need to have a great experience.

When:  May 30
Where:  Northeast Bible Church in Garden Ridge
Times:  9-11   book drop off
           11-12  volunteer shopping ONLY
            12-4  open shopping for all
            4 pm pick up leftover books (optional)

Details:  If you plan to bring books:
1. Members of REACH will pay $5.00 fee (non-members $8.00) to be paid when you drop off your books 
2. Those with the last name starting with A-M will email lisadebusk@sbcgloba l.net to be assigned a number
3.  Those with the last name starting with N-Z will email  phelpspj@sbcglobal. net to be assigned a number
4. Once you have been assigned a number, everything you bring will need to have your number and price written on a sticky label and AFFIXED to each piece.  You may bundle things together with rubber bands or string, but the whole bundle needs to have the number and price on it.
5.  You price your own items.
6.  You will drop off your books and YOU will place them on the correct table.  For example: Saxon Math 76 would be placed on the MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH table.
7.  If you want to take back any books of yours that don't sell, YOU need to come to NEBC at 4PM and collect them.  If you don't come to get them, or you don't want anything you bring back in your house (as I don't), then everything becomes the property of REACH.  We will sell them, donate them, or possibly add them to our REACH library to be checked out by the members.
8.  REACH will send you a check for what you have sold, minus 10%, within 6 weeks. (It will hopefully be sooner than that, but I can't promise sooner...I will try my darndest!)
9.  Anyone who wants to volunteer is welcome as long as you let me know ahead of time and for doing so, you will get to shop an hour early!  (Come on, you know that's a great perk!)
10.  Remember! This is NOT a garage sale...this is a used book sale!  We will allow any of the following items:  curriculum, readers, books, dvd's, puzzles, cookbooks, free items (there will be a FREE table), games, etc...Do not bring appliances, furniture, rugs, kitchen items, etc...you get the picture.

If you have any questions, need clarification, or want to volunteer, email me at lisadebusk@sbcgloba l.net .  Thanks for enduring through this. Lisa DeBusk

Bexar County Youth Project Show

I invite your students to enter the Bexar County Youth Project Show, a country fair-type contest. The event is sponsored by Bexar County 4-H, but the students do not need to be in 4-H to participate. We have ten divisions with 50 individual classes in four age groups. If your child loves arts & crafts, gardening, woodworking, cooking, and more, this is a wonderful opportunity to show off their talents and receive some recognition. The divisions are: Baking & Canning, Clothing (Sewing), Hobbies & Crafts, Horticulture, Photography, Wood & Metal Work, Art, Educational Poster Design, Needlework, and Nature/Botanical Collections. The fee is $2 per entry. A child may enter only one project per class, but may enter every class. That means a child could enter all 50 classes (if someone actually wanted to pay $100!). Every entry receives a ribbon. We award 1st, 2nd, & 3rd places in Elementary, Junior High, and High School age groups. We also award large rosette! ribbons for Best of Division and an overall Best in Show. Each of these prizes is accompanied by additional prizes -- art supplies, baking supplies, gift cards, etc. The Kindergartners  (called Clover Kids in 4-H) are not allowed to "compete" but receive a ribbon and a nice medal. 4-H maintains that children that young are not emotionally ready for competition; however, they may enter projects nonetheless. The contest is Saturday, May 16 at the Helotes 4-H Building across from O'Connor High School. The deadline to turn in entry forms is May 4. it's what I call a "Make it and Take it" contest. You make it, drop if off for judging, and come back for the awards and to pick up your entries. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or for registration forms. Please feel free to pass this along to other groups. We look forward to seeing your students' work!

Sincerely,
Jamie Miranda

Project Show Chair
Haven Home Educators Coordinator
Haven 4-H Club Asst. Manager
SAHERO Board Member
Miranda Writing Workshops
St. Philip's College Educational Support Services Tutor
(210)733-1757
mypinkkoala@aol.com

Summit Christian Academy Info Meeting

Please join us as we learn more about Summit Christian Academy a University-Model School offering grades k-6 in the Fall of 2009. Also, please pass this information along and bring any friends or family who may be interested. If you have any questions please contact SCA at school@scatx.net or visit www.scatx.net.

Location: Leon Springs Presbyterian Church (23943 IH-10 W)
Date: 05/05/09
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Please provide your own childcare

Summit Christian Academy is a University-Model School® located in the Hill Country of San Antonio. University-Model Schools allow parents more involvement in their children's education by combining the traditional private classroom environment with homeschooling. Classes are attended Tuesday and Thursday with optional electives on Wednesday. This allows for more family time on alternate days as parents guide their children through detailed lessons given by the teacher to complete their student's education. This formula allows for better character development as quality relationships between parents and children are fostered.

San Antonio College Homeschool Day

San Antonio Community College has invited all of us to an information Symposium. The Faculty at SAC for Dual Credits, Early Admissions, Testing and Scholarships will all be together so you can get all your questions asked at once! We will also be getting a guided tour of the campus. Bring all your homeschool highschool friends - you don't want to miss this!

Wednesday April 29, 2009 r>1:00-4:00pm

Due to the amazing response this event is being moved to the
McAllister Auditorium - please plan on using parking lot 2 or 3.
Click Here to Sign Up please sign up so we can give SAC an idea of how many to expect!

https://www. service-life. com/sysfiles/ member/index. cfm?memberid= 414 

Dual Credits are offered to students that pass the ACCUPLACER entrance test (posted online sample on our website to try) 2 Dual Credit classes per semester are free to qualifying students which means by the time your student graduates from homeschool highschool they could have earned more than 24 college credit hours!

SAC is also interested in offering Dual Credit classes at other facilities around the city that may be closer to your home and consist of just homeschoolers that may be ready for college level work but not mature enough for a college campus. If you know of a church that might be interested in hosting Dual Credit classes please have them contact me at gridjumpers@ yahoo.com

Please forward this to other homeschoolers you know, sign up and let's turn out in great numbers! Thanks.  Sue Laprise

Picture Your World Youth Photography Project Contest Deadline 

The Picture Your World Youth Photography Contest promotes awareness of the need for preservation of our natural environment through images that reveal the interconnectedness of earth, water, sky, and the creatures – including man – who live in the environment.

Entries must be received by April 17, 2009, unless the contestant attends the Portfolio Workshop on April 19, in which case the entries may be turned in to the instructor at the conclusion of that class. The contest is open to students age 8-18.

Three art professionals will judge the entries: Lyn Belisle, a photographer and professor in the graphic design program at Trinity University; Arturo Almeida, curator for the UTSA art collection; and Martin Rodriguez, an artist and filmmaker. Contest winners will be announced at an awards ceremony on May 17.

See the contest entry form for complete contest details.
Contact: For more information, call 210-222-8430 or e-mail us.

Informal Geometry

Six Weeks  (Twice Weekly) 9a.m. – 12 noon; Tuesdays and Thursdays

May: 19, 21, 26, 28
June: 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24

Program is designed to supplement the Saxon Math. It includes Proofs, Triangles, Circles, and more. Counts as a year of Informal Geometry. Call Pauline Bauml 210-287-1898. Cost: $100 per three week session

C.L.A.S.S. Caring, Learning and Some Smiles Support Group

This is class, which stands for Caring, Learning and Some Smiles. Which is something we all strive for---to help our kids learn with caring and support as well as having some fun doing it. This is a support group for parents and families primarily from the SW side of San Antonio and surrounding areas (but open to anyone wanting to join) who homeschool their kids. It's a place to discuss anything about homeschooling and to meet others who school their own children. This group is secular and is open to anyone and everyone so please be mindful of others beliefs and opinions. We also have park day at Medina Base Road Park on the 1st and 3rd Mondays of the month. We are new so any input is welcome. I'd also like to set up some Mommy's day out nights. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Its_our_CLASS/

Homeschool F.I.T. and Fun

My name is Claudia and I am a Recreation Assistant at the Enrique Barrera Community Fitness Center. We currently have a program specifically for children in the home school groups. The Home School F.I.T. and Fun Package contains various activities for children and teens. The two hour session is broken up into 30 minute group activities. The first activity is a 30 minute Fitness Assessment and nutrition tips. In this class children and teens will have their fitness level evaluated and basic healthy eating tips will be discussed. The second activity is 30 minutes on our indoor traverse wall. We have a floor to ceiling traverse climbing wall that kids love. The third activity is an obstacle course. Children of all ages love our challenging obstacle course guaranteed to be fun and exhilarating. The final 30 minute session is a circuit training class for teens or fitness related games for youngsters. If you would like further information on the Home School Fun package or our center, please contact me.

Claudia R. Trevino
Recreation Assistant
Enrique  Barrera  Community  Fitness  Center
City of San Antonio, Parks & Recreation
5800 Old Hwy 90 West
San Antonio,  TX 78227
(210) 207 - 3221
Claudia.Trevino@sanantonio.gov

Teen Art Guide Applications

What’s a TAG?
* Get other teens and families talking about art.
* Help with media and technology programs.
* Assist education department with programs for families and teens.

The McNay Art Museum is looking for a few teen volunteers or TAGs for the 2009–2010 school year. Do you have what it takes? At the Mcnay, TAGs:

* Get other teens and families talking about art.
* Help with media and technology programs.
* Assist education department with programs for families and teens.

Eligibility to be a TAG, you must:
* Be a current sophomore or junior in San Antonio area.
* Sign a pledge of commitment to program and policies.
* Have reliable transportation to and from the museum.
* Have at least a C average.
* Submit a teacher recommendation.
* Interview with McNay staff.
* Agree to work with the staff, families, and works of art
(media, technology, and Spanish language skills a plus).

Due date: April 24, 2009. http://www.mcnayart.org/images/PDFs/TAGApplication2009.pdf Submit applications by email to education@mcnayart.org or to McNay Art Museum, Post Office Box 6069, San Antonio, Texas 78209

100 Hours of Astronomy

San Antonio Astronomical Association, April 2-5, 2009.  We're starting a day early with our weekly Astronomy in the Park at McAllister Park, 13102 Jones Maltsberger Road [Map] event on April 1st and will have at least one event each night through April 5th.  SAAA members may be hosting their own events.  For more information contact our 100 Hours of Astronomy Coordinator, Keith Little.  

• April 1, 2009: Astronomy in the Park at McAllister Park, viewing begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting
• April 2, 2009: Telescope viewing at McAllister Park, viewing begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting
• April 3, 2009: Telescope viewing at McAllister Park, viewing begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting
• April 3, 2009: SAAA Night at the Scobee Planetarium on the campus of San Antonio College
• April 4, 2009: "Meet the Sky" Star Party with KLRN, at McAllister Park, viewing begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting
• April 5, 2009: Telescope viewing at McAllister Park, viewing begins at 7:30 p.m., weather permitting

Legacy Archaeology summer camps for children 7-12 years old

This year's theme is Ancient Rome. Join real archaeologists from the UTSA Center for Archaeological Research for hands on activities including learning about how archaeology is done, analyzing artifacts and participating in a mock dig! Dates: July 6-10 for 7-9 yr olds
           July 27-31 for 10-12 yr olds
           Aug 10-14 for 10-12 yr olds
Camp times are 9am-4pm daily.
Cost: $200 per camp (includes supplies, snacks and a t shirt)
Space limited to 18 children per week
For more info, visit http://car.utsa.edu or call 458-4462

Be Kind to Animals Poster Contest

National Be Kind to Animals Week is dedicated to raising awareness about treating animals with respect and kindness. The Helotes Humane Society will celebrate this special week with our first annual poster contest for young people. This year’s theme is “If Animals Could Talk”

Age Categories:
Entries from students in grades 1 – 5 may be submitted by schools or individuals. Judges will select winners from each grade.
Posters:
Posters must be no larger than 11” x 17” no smaller than 8” x 10” on white or buff paper or poster board. Crayon, pencil, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, magic marker and colored pencils may be used.
Theme: “If Animals Could Talk”
Identification: All entries must include the student’s name, grade, school address, teacher’s name and phone number. This information may be written on the back of the posters or an entry form may be attached to the back of the poster.
Tips:
Posters will be judged on originality, creativity and demonstration of the theme. Students making posters are encouraged to fill the page and make them colorful.
Deadline:
Friday – April 17, 2009
Drop off your entries at The Palms Pet Resort & Spa, 12410 Bandera Road @ Loop 1604

Prizes!!!  Entries will be judged within their own grade level. All winners will receive prizes and have their winning entries displayed at the Helotes Humane Society Booth at the Cornyval April 30 - May3.
 
For more information email: hhsanimals@yahoo.com or call Ph. 210-422-6242

Free Alamo Arts Ballet Theatre

Choreographic Collection: A morning of music and original choreography. This performance is free and open to local students and their chaperones only. It is closed to the public. AABT is excited to offer this free performance to help spread their passion for the arts with the students of San Antonio.

Thursday, April 16, 10:00 am. Jo Long Theatre, Carver Community Cultural Center. For information and to reserve seats contact Michelle at 210-844-5621 or email alamoartsballettheatre@gmail.com .

The Witte Museum will offer 2 “Project Wild” Workshops

The Witte Museum will offer 2 “Project Wild” workshops in April and May.   April 25 will be Project WILD and May 2 will be Project WILD Aquatic. Seating is limited, and these workshops have proven very valuable to homeschoolers.  Both programs are distributed through the Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Project WILD office. You can only receive the K-12 Curriculum and Activity Guides by attending these workshops.  Each session will be held at the museum from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM with a 1 hour lunch break.  There is a $10.00 museum facilities fee.  For reservations for either workshop contact Witte Reservations at 210-357-1910. 

Project WILD Workshop – Saturday, April 25  The Project WILD K-12 Curriculum and Activity Guide focuses on wildlife and habitat. The guide is full of 124 activities that emphasize hands-on, inquiry-based, and cooperative learning strategies with demonstrated classroom effectiveness. It is organized in topic units and is based on the Project WILD conceptual framework. Because these activities are designed for integration into existing courses of study, instructors may use one or many Project WILD activities or the entire set of activities may serve quite effectively as the basis for a course of study.

Each Project WILD activity contains all the information needed to conduct that activity including objectives, method, background information, a list of materials needed, procedures, evaluation suggestions, recommended grade levels, subject areas, duration, group size, setting, and key terms. A glossary is provided, as well as a cross-reference by topics and skills.

Project WILD Aquatic Workshop – Saturday, May 2 Learn how to teach young people about aquatic wildlife and ecosystems using fun, hands-on educational activities. During the six-hour training workshop participants will sample activities and receive a curriculum and activity guide. Activities are adaptable for all grade levels, integrated with core subject curricula and aligned to the TEKS. Teachers, homeschoolers, informal educators and youth group leaders may take the training.

The Project WILD Aquatic K-12 Curriculum and Activity Guide emphasizes aquatic wildlife and aquatic ecosystems. The guide is full of 48 activities that emphasize hands-on, inquiry-based, and cooperative learning strategies with demonstrated classroom effectiveness. It is organized in topic units and is based on the Project WILD conceptual framework. Because these activities are designed for integration into existing courses of study, instructors may use one or many Project WILD Aquatic activities or the entire set of activities may serve quite effectively as the basis for a course of study.

For more information on these programs go to: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/learning/project_wild/project_wild.phtml
or Tom Kinsey at tkinsey1@satx.rr.com
Tom Kinsey
Wildlife Education
Witte Museum
San Antonio, Texas
210-410-4564