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Adam Andrews

Adam Andrews received his BA in Political Economy and Christian Studies from Hillsdale College in 1991. He earned his MA in History from the University of Washington in 1994, and is currently a candidate for the PhD in History. He is writing his doctoral dissertation on the history of early American Presbyterianism. Adam is a Henry Salvatori Fellow of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and a founding board member of Westover Academy, a...

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Adam Andrews received his BA in Political Economy and Christian Studies from Hillsdale College in 1991. He earned his MA in History from the University of Washington in 1994, and is currently a candidate for the PhD in History. He is writing his doctoral dissertation on the history of early American Presbyterianism. Adam is a Henry Salvatori Fellow of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and a founding board member of Westover Academy, a Classical Christian school in Colville, Washington. He is the assistant director of the American Council for Accredited Certification, a nonprofit professional certifying body.

He and his wife Missy homeschool their six children, ages nine to eighteen. The family attends Christ Reformed Church in Colville, where Adam is the preaching elder.

They have long felt a calling to serve the homeschooling community and have constantly been on the lookout for ways to make high quality education accessible to committed parents and teachers.  Inveterate bookworms, they have spent the past twelve years making booklists of great literature for students of all ages and trying to find a literature curriculum that is both accessible and substantial. Teaching the Classics is the result of their conviction that the best curriculum is one that involves both teacher and student in a discussion of great ideas.

Adam and his wife founded The Center for Lit on 2003 to help parents and teachers provide high quality instruction in the important disciplines of the mind. 

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

"It's Onomatopoeia, Mom!" Using Children's Stories to Teach Literary Devices

Speaker(s):
Adam Andrews
Juxtaposition, metaphor, symbolism, irony, foreshadowing – HELP! Parents often avoid the subject of literature because of the intimidating vocabulary of literary analysis. The truth is, you don’t need a college degree in literature to understand this vocabulary; what you need is a well-written children’s story. Adam takes the audience on a guided tour of literary devices, making discerning literary analysts out of every audience member. Doing the same with your own children couldn’t be easier, but beware.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Paul Revere: A Case Study in the Unit Study

Speaker(s):
Adam Andrews
Adam discusses the relationship between history and literature, and suggests ways that close study of the one can help us understand the other. This workshop includes a discussion of context and style in Longfellow's classic poem Paul Revere's Ride. There are no handouts for this workshop.

Robert Andrews

Robert Andrews is a graduate chemical engineer who has been a college campus evangelist, high school chemistry teacher and basketball coach, church teaching elder, church planter, national conference speaker, and certified business and family coach. The emphasis of Robert’s ministry has always been the family; and the first of his six books, The Family: God’s Weapon for Victory (1995), is in revision for a third edition.

He...

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Robert Andrews is a graduate chemical engineer who has been a college campus evangelist, high school chemistry teacher and basketball coach, church teaching elder, church planter, national conference speaker, and certified business and family coach. The emphasis of Robert’s ministry has always been the family; and the first of his six books, The Family: God’s Weapon for Victory (1995), is in revision for a third edition.

He has been married to Jill for 40 years and they have three children and ten grandchildren. He is able to draw upon extensive “trial and error” experience for the anecdotes that fill his books and conference presentations.

Robert feels that there is no more important task today than winning the battle for the minds of our children.  Home educators are the most important warriors in that battle, the heroes in the culture war. It is from this conviction that Gospel Parenting was born. Its mission is to help parents equip their children to extend the rule of Jesus Christ into the next generation.

Gospel Parenting is built upon the firm belief that all of life, including parenting, is first anchored firmly in a clear understanding of the gospel of the unlimited grace of God extended to mankind at the cross; second, a vision for joining with Him in extending His kingdom over the whole earth; and third, our families are His primary weapons in doing so.  This is the task for which we were created and in which we and our children will find fulfillment in life.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Building Character into Your Child

Speaker(s):
Robert Andrews
When rearing their children, parents often confuse their job with God’s job. God has designed that He alone brings life; but He has given the parent the job of building character. What Biblical character traits can we as parents consciously set as a goal for our children and how can we train them in such a way that that goal will be achieved by the time they leave our homes as adults?
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Capturing the Heart of the Next Generation's Warrior

Speaker(s):
Robert Andrews
All the parenting techniques and methods in the world, even biblical ones, do no good if your child is resistant to receive your training. As long as he is a child and you can force him to comply with your wishes, all seems well; but if you have not captured his heart, that serenity often proves to be a mirage that disappears during the teen-age years. How can you capture your child’s heart to insure that he will follow as adults the direction for life you have pointed for them?

Nancy Bjorkman

Nancy Bjorkman began as the ultimate homeschool skeptic; but now, after 20 years teaching her own four children, she has become the resource and information lady for many and a champion of the cause.

She is a certified teacher and has spoken at homeschool conferences in ten states. She loves practical topics such as meal management, avoiding burnout, home schooling through high school, and using games to make learning meaningful.

...
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Nancy Bjorkman began as the ultimate homeschool skeptic; but now, after 20 years teaching her own four children, she has become the resource and information lady for many and a champion of the cause.

She is a certified teacher and has spoken at homeschool conferences in ten states. She loves practical topics such as meal management, avoiding burnout, home schooling through high school, and using games to make learning meaningful.

Though she stays busy as a support group leader and now bookstore owner, her favorite times are spent talking and laughing with her family at the dinner table. She is excited to have graduated all four of her children and has found it exciting to have graduated herself from being mentored to being a mentor for other homeschool families.

She and her husband own a homeschool resource store and catalog business in Elk River, Minnesota, where they delight in ministering to the unique needs of homeschool families year round.

Event activities / Sessions:

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Math outside the Book

Speaker(s):
Nancy Bjorkman
This interactive workshop will cover the why’s and how’s of using games to bring math to life and to increase understanding in students. We will discuss how to use games to enhance any curriculum. Then, we will dive into a highly visual and interactive review of games to use for everything from understanding number basics, to getting the facts straight, to learning the base ten system and operations. Responses to this workshop in the past have been overwhelmingly positive.

Derek and Cheryl Carter

Derek and Cheryl Carter have been joyfully married for 16 years and have three children. They are homeschooling parents and Chapter Leaders with the New York state Christian homeschool group, Loving Education At Home (LEAH).

Derek has a vision to see all men rise to be like Christ in their homes and is often heard to say, “Just like we want to be like Christ, our children should want to be like us.” He has a burden to reach...

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Derek and Cheryl Carter have been joyfully married for 16 years and have three children. They are homeschooling parents and Chapter Leaders with the New York state Christian homeschool group, Loving Education At Home (LEAH).

Derek has a vision to see all men rise to be like Christ in their homes and is often heard to say, “Just like we want to be like Christ, our children should want to be like us.” He has a burden to reach fathers so that they can reach their children and he regularly speaks on marriage, parenting and homeschool issues. Derek has a degree in Urban Studies and a Masters of Science in Urban Policy and Administration. Currently he is employed by the Family Preservation Program in New York City. He is President of Foundations for Family Success, a ministry which serves today’s fast-paced families. In addition, he does Biblical counseling as a Clinical Member of the National Association of Christian Counselors.

Cheryl is Founder and Director of Organize Your Life, an organization that helps Christian women - moms in particular - reach their maximum effectiveness and productivity. She is a former elementary school teacher and the author of five books on time management and organization, including 500 Ways to Organize Your Child and Put Your Life in Order. She has written Christian and secular curricula as well as parenting and family materials. She is also a columnist for the Long Island New York Christian Life Times and writes for various online publications. She is sought after as a homeschool and family speaker. In light of all these accomplishments, Cheryl considers mothering  to be her finest achievement.

The Carters have worked with at-risk families for over 20 years. They are founders of Family Success Ministries, a ministry dedicated to strengthening marriages, empowering parents, and helping families better manage their time. Both Derek and Cheryl are adjunct professors and freelance writers. They have written several books on parenting, fathering and time management. The Carters are active in the Christian homeschool community and enjoy encouraging others to draw close to Christ as they disciple their children.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

Seven Basic Truths Every Family Should Build On

Speaker(s):
Derek and Cheryl Carter
In this practical workshop, the Carters discuss seven Biblical foundations, including giving our family a spiritual identity, maintaining an ordered and purposeful lifestyle, building financial skills, teaching conflict and problem solving abilities, and more to help our families be successful.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Financial Wisdom for Families

Speaker(s):
Derek and Cheryl Carter
Learn practical ways to live debt-free, to create a workable budget, and to make reasonable financial goals. This workshop includes a section on teaching your kids how to manage their money.

Derek Carter

Derek Carter is the President of Foundations for Family Success, a ministry which serves today's fast paced families. The ministry conducts practical workshops and seminars on marriage, parenting and families. In addition he does biblical counseling. He is a Clinical Member of the National Association of Christian Counselors. He has worked with families in crisis for over fifteen years and has a degree in Urban Studies and a Masters of...

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Derek Carter is the President of Foundations for Family Success, a ministry which serves today's fast paced families. The ministry conducts practical workshops and seminars on marriage, parenting and families. In addition he does biblical counseling. He is a Clinical Member of the National Association of Christian Counselors. He has worked with families in crisis for over fifteen years and has a degree in Urban Studies and a Masters of Science in Urban Policy and Administration. Currently, he is employed by the Family Preservation Program in New York City. He is active in the Long Island, Greater New York Home School community. He is a home-schooling dad and is a Chapter Leader with the New York State Christian Home School group (LEAH). Carter is also a freelance writer who has written on fathering issues. He is active in his local church. He has been joyfully married for sixteen years to the only love of his life, his bride Cheryl, and has three young children. He has a vision to see all men rise to be like Christ in their homes and is often heard to say "just like we want to be like Christ, our children should want to be like us.' He has a burden to reach fathers so they can reach their children and regularly speaks on marriage, parenting and home-school issues.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

The Supportive Homeschool Dad: How to Have a Presence in Your Absence

Speaker(s):
Derek Carter
This workshop will focus on the practical, Biblical, and tangible ways that dads, especially those who work outside the home, can take an active role in homeschooling their children.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

What Every Son Should Know. What Every Father Should Teach.

Speaker(s):
Derek Carter
Carter discusses the Rites of Passage program he has used, and is presently using, with his son and he encourages churches, community groups, and other dads to embrace the model to raise mighty men of God for the twentieth century church.

Cheryl Carter

Cheryl Carter is Founder/ Director of "Organize Your Life," an organization that helps Christian women, moms in particular, reach their maximum effectiveness and productivity. Carter is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), Small Publishers of North American (SPAN) and a Clinical member of the National Association of Christian Counselors (NCCA).

Carter is a former elementary...

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Cheryl Carter is Founder/ Director of "Organize Your Life," an organization that helps Christian women, moms in particular, reach their maximum effectiveness and productivity. Carter is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers (NAPO), Small Publishers of North American (SPAN) and a Clinical member of the National Association of Christian Counselors (NCCA).

Carter is a former elementary school teacher and the author of five books on time management and organization including, 500 Ways to Organize Your Child and Put Your Life In Order. She has written Christian and secular curriculum, as well as parenting and family material. Carter is also a Columnist for the Long Island New York Christian Life Times and writes for various online publications.

She is the primary homeschool teacher for the Carter children and considers mothering her finest achievement. She is a sought-after home education and family speaker.

She assists her husband in Foundations for Family Success, a ministry to urban families where she does Biblical counseling and workshops. In her oft-stretched spare time she tutors at-risk youth and is active in her local church and community.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Organize Your Home

Speaker(s):
Cheryl Carter
In this workshop, Cheryl, a reformed “messie,” shares practical things families can do to become more organized, including getting rid of clutter, managing mail, and developing a personalized homeschool plan for their families.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Inspiring the Writer in Your Child

Speaker(s):
Cheryl Carter
In this fun and inspiring workshop, Cheryl, a columnist, author and freelance writer, shares ways she has motivated reluctant homeschoolers to become proactive writers. This workshop is based on her teaching writing in her homeschool co-op and her children's freelance writing experience.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Organize Your Child

Speaker(s):
Cheryl Carter
Participants will learn practical ways to teach their children organizational skills. Using the Bible and child development skills as a foundation, parents will learn easy ways to teach their child how to be organized and better prepared for life.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Creative and Critical Writing for the College Bound Student

Speaker(s):
Cheryl Carter
Research shows that college success depends largely on reading and writing skills. In this practical workshop, Cheryl shares some essential writing skills our homeschool college bound teens need to successfully navigate college.

Becky Cooke

Becky Cooke and her husband Jim home educated their three children from kindergarten until college using an eclectic assortment of teaching resources. She enjoys using these skills to equip parents to successfully teach their children through the high school years and to encourage them to enjoy doing so.

After sending her children off to university, Becky helped develop HSLDA’s Homeschooling Through High School program, including...

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Becky Cooke and her husband Jim home educated their three children from kindergarten until college using an eclectic assortment of teaching resources. She enjoys using these skills to equip parents to successfully teach their children through the high school years and to encourage them to enjoy doing so.

After sending her children off to university, Becky helped develop HSLDA’s Homeschooling Through High School program, including its high school website. She brings a wealth of experience and friendly advice to share with families who are navigating these challenging, yet exciting years. She ministers to families as she speaks at homeschool meetings and conferences. She co-authors articles on high school topics as well as writes brochures and a monthly high school email newsletter which reach homeschooling families nationwide. In addition, Becky provides personal consultation and a listening ear to HSLDA members with homeschool questions and concerns along with information and direction on college admission and testing.

In her “spare” time, she edits books, articles, and magazines for several authors and publishers; is active in Precepts upon Precepts Bible Study, and mentors international collegiate women studying in the Washington, D. C. area. She also serves on the board of Breakthrough Intercessors Prayer Ministry.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

Looking Ahead to High School: Preparing Now to Be Equipped

Speaker(s):
Becky Cooke
It’s never too early to think about homeschooling during the teen years. If that is your desire, what can you do now to build confidence and be better prepared to meet the challenge? Come hear practical information on record keeping, course and credit evaluation, development of a high school plan, as well as an introduction to transcripts and diplomas, to prepare you for the job of homeschooling through these important years.

Dianne Craft

Dianne Craft, MA, CNHP, a speaker and former homeschool mom, discovered that there are many bright, hardworking, homeschooled children who have to work way too hard to learn! As she speaks with homeschool leaders across the country, she hears that their fastest growing population of new homeschoolers is comprised of parents who are working with bright but struggling learners. This appears to be about 30% of our homeschooling...

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Dianne Craft, MA, CNHP, a speaker and former homeschool mom, discovered that there are many bright, hardworking, homeschooled children who have to work way too hard to learn! As she speaks with homeschool leaders across the country, she hears that their fastest growing population of new homeschoolers is comprised of parents who are working with bright but struggling learners. This appears to be about 30% of our homeschooling population. 

Her goal is to show parents how to identify if their bright, hard working child is truly struggling with a learning block (...or if he just has a character problem, the most common question?) and, more importantly, how to reduce the impact of that learning glitch and get the child moving forward quickly. We know that homeschooling is best, especially for a struggling learner; however in their frustration, many parents consider sending their child to the public school system, thinking that it is their only option. With just a little instruction, these wonderful parents can very successfully homeschool their child with reading, writing, math, behavioral or attention issues. 

Attendees to Dianne’s workshops often comment that her presentations are funny, entertaining, informative and chock full of ideas to help them understand their puzzling child. They say that it feels like she has been sitting in their house, watching their daily struggles with their child.    

Dianne has a Master’s degree in Elementary and Special Education with 25 years of teaching experience. She now teaches parents across the country how to help their child learn faster and easier using therapies and strategies that are very effective while being very inexpensive. She is a Certified Natural Health Professional specializing in natural treatments for children with attention, learning and behavioral issues.  Dianne is president of the educational consulting firm Child Diagnostics, Inc. in Littleton, Colorado. 

 

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

Identifying and Correcting Blocked Learning Gates

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
A child may be a reluctant learner for several reasons. A bright, hardworking child who has to work too hard to learn is ‘telling’ you that one or more of his Four Learning Gates is blocked. This workshop will help you identify which of the learning gates is blocked and what you can do about it at home! Find out specifically how the brain processes information and where that processing can break down; then receive the corrections for each processing area. A homeschooling mom with a Ph.D.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Training Your Child's Photographic Memory

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
Many people think that some are just born with a “photographic memory,” but we now know that this amazing ability can be easily taught. These visual memory techniques work with all types of learners and can be an essential learning tool for a child or adult who has an auditory processing glitch. You will learn the easy, powerful Right Brain Reading method Dianne used in her Resource room to help all of her students make a two-year gain in reading and spelling in one year!
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Kids and Teenagers with Focus and Attention Issues: A Healing Approach

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
Do you have a child who has to work too hard to stay focused on a task? Does his pencil become paralyzed when you leave the room for a few minutes? Does he seem lazy and unmotivated?  Are you at your wits end about how to help this child? You know he’s smart, but it takes him FOREVER to complete his work! This workshop will give you a totally different view of and approach to children and teenagers with attention and focus issues.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Smart Kids Who Hate to Write

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
Do you have a child who seems to be “allergic” to a pencil? If you have a child who groans and fusses about writing or still writes reversals or spells a word orally correctly but leaves out letters when he writes? This workshop is for you! These children are often thought of as sloppy, lazy, or unmotivated, when they really have a writing glitch. The writing learning gate is the most common gate that is blocked with gifted kids.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Photographic Memory for Math and Test Taking

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
Teach your children the lifelong skill of studying for tests by taking a picture of the contents of a chapter and reducing study time. For some children, math is a monster! They hate it and always feel dumb when doing it. These children have difficulty learning math facts and tend to do poorly on tests because they ‘forget’ how to do the math processes (division, fractions, algebra, etc.). In this workshop, you will learn how to help your child store the math facts and processes in his long term memory.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

The Biology of Auditory Processing and Memory Problems

Speaker(s):
Dianne Craft
Do you have a child whom you suspect has an Auditory Processing Problem? They tend to get easily confused because they do not process auditory information quickly enough. There are many learning tricks and therapies that we can do to make these processes easier. There are common physical problems that generally are at the root of Auditory Processing Problems and short term memory failure issues. Find out what they are and, what’s more important, what you can do to help your child (or your spouse or older parents) overcome these problems naturally.

Phil Downer

Phil Downer, a former machine gunner who served in Viet Nam with the United States Marine Corps in 1967 and 1968, received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University in 1972 and a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law in 1975. Phil was a successful lawyer before being led to Christ and discipled by fellow professionals. He left his position as one of the senior partners of a 50-...

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Phil Downer, a former machine gunner who served in Viet Nam with the United States Marine Corps in 1967 and 1968, received a Bachelor of Business Administration from Southern Methodist University in 1972 and a Juris Doctor from Emory University School of Law in 1975. Phil was a successful lawyer before being led to Christ and discipled by fellow professionals. He left his position as one of the senior partners of a 50-attorney law firm to serve as President of Christian Business Men’s Committee (CBMC) for a decade. Phil is on the Steering Committee of the National Coalition of Men’s Ministries, a former elder of his church, and a member of CBMC.

Phil currently serves as President of Discipleship Network of America (DNA). DNA is a nationwide network of people who are committed to following Christ’s example of winning and discipling others to become disciple makers. This Spiritual reproductive ministry emanates from the lives of people who focus on Christ in their work, marriage, family, neighborhood, and church. In April of 2007, the National Coalition of Men’s Ministries gave DNA the Ministry of the Year Award.

He is the author of Eternal Impact: Investing in the Lives of Others; A Father’s Reward - Raising Your Children to Walk in the Truth; and Brave, Strong, and Tender, a book that details how this Viet Nam veteran learned to transfer his leadership from the battlefield to his home, to his law practice, and, eventually, to running a nationwide ministry. He and his wife coauthored Unlimited Partnership: Building Intimacy & Teamwork into Your Marriage.  Phil edited and coauthored Effective Men’s Ministry.

Phil’s wife Susy, also an attorney, served as Assistant Corporate Secretary and legal counsel for Delta Air Lines for ten years. She resigned her position in 1985 to devote full time to their six children whom she has homeschooled throughout their education.

Phil will be presenting our two Keynote addresses and, along with his wife Susy, son Paul, and daughter and son-in-law Anna and Sam Youngs, will be bringing several of our conference workshops this year. This family has an amazing story to share.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

The Homeschool Marriage: From Surviving to Thriving!

Speaker(s):
Phil Downer, Susy Downer
Every day, the homeschool marriage experiences high levels of stress, a frantic pace of life, and competing priorities which work to pull it apart at the seams. If all these forces are carefully dealt with, however, the result can be a marriage and family that is not only surviving, but truly thriving. This workshop deals with planning, communication, teamwork, and the primary obstacles that threaten to rob your marriage and family of relational harmony, peace of mind, and fruitfulness.  There are no handouts for this workshop.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

06:30PM

08:30PM

Giving Homeschool Teens a Vision to Change the World

Speaker(s):
Phil Downer
In this session we will be confronting complacency, mediocrity and the sense of entitlement. The workshop provides building blocks for mentoring young people in preparation for great service with an expanding vision to serve their heavenly Father as kingdom builders. Discover the steps to channeling the energy, creativity, and imagination of children into the greater service of the Lord. There are no handouts for this workshop.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

Leaving a Godly Legacy: Discipling Your Children

Speaker(s):
Phil Downer
It is the passion and prayer of every loving parent’s heart; but what does it take to build the authentic relationships with our children necessary for them to become a lasting, living legacy? This session is dedicated to exactly that question and to sending you away with a toolbox packed-full with the everyday ideas, strategies, activities, and methods for being a fun parent, building strong relationships with your kids, and raising them to faithfully live for the glory of God and the good of others. There are no handouts for this workshop.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Supporting and Encouraging the Homeschool Mom

Speaker(s):
Phil Downer
This workshop offers encouragement for moms on the challenges of homeschool family life along with tips for how dads can be a vital support to her on issues of sibling conflict, character development, and discipline. Mom needs to take a breather from trying to do everything and find the keys to enjoying deeper relationships with her children. She will hear how to see and seize the opportunities in the problems of homeschool family life. There are no handouts for this workshop.

Susy Downer

Susy Downer, a former attorney, served as legal counsel for Delta Air Lines for ten years and was Assistant Corporate Secretary. She resigned her position with Delta in 1985 to devote herself full time to Phil and their children. Susy homeschooled their six children through high school, four of whom are now married.

Susy is a co-author of Unlimited Partnership: Building Intimacy and Teamwork Into Your Marriage,...

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Susy Downer, a former attorney, served as legal counsel for Delta Air Lines for ten years and was Assistant Corporate Secretary. She resigned her position with Delta in 1985 to devote herself full time to Phil and their children. Susy homeschooled their six children through high school, four of whom are now married.

Susy is a co-author of Unlimited Partnership: Building Intimacy and Teamwork Into Your Marriage, Optimize Your Marriage: Making an Eternal Impact on Family and Friends, and From Hell To Eternity: Life After Trauma. Susy speaks with her husband Phil Downer at marriage and family conferences and has appeared with Phil and various other family members on nationwide radio programs. Susy also appeared in the 2010 Day of Discovery documentary, The War Within: Finding Hope For Post-Traumatic Stress.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

The Homeschool Marriage: From Surviving to Thriving!

Speaker(s):
Phil Downer, Susy Downer
Every day, the homeschool marriage experiences high levels of stress, a frantic pace of life, and competing priorities which work to pull it apart at the seams. If all these forces are carefully dealt with, however, the result can be a marriage and family that is not only surviving, but truly thriving. This workshop deals with planning, communication, teamwork, and the primary obstacles that threaten to rob your marriage and family of relational harmony, peace of mind, and fruitfulness.  There are no handouts for this workshop.

Paul Downer

Paul Downer is the Director of Operations for DNA Ministries and Managing Director of Eternal Impact Publishing. He travels the country with his father, Phil Downer, speaking at one to two conferences per month, and appears with Phil on their daily one-minute broadcast, A Discipleship Moment, which airs on over 120 stations in America.

Paul came to Christ at five years old. Despite this, however, he was in a crisis of...

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Paul Downer is the Director of Operations for DNA Ministries and Managing Director of Eternal Impact Publishing. He travels the country with his father, Phil Downer, speaking at one to two conferences per month, and appears with Phil on their daily one-minute broadcast, A Discipleship Moment, which airs on over 120 stations in America.

Paul came to Christ at five years old. Despite this, however, he was in a crisis of anger and dishonesty by the age of twelve. His life began to fracture as he became conquered by lying, a fiery temper, stealing, and a deep-seated anger toward his father. God moved onto the scene and transformed not only their lives, but also their relationship.

Paul earned academic scholarships for college and attended Bryan College as a Presidential Scholar. He was a Student Life Staff Resident Assistant and an RA team mentor throughout his college career. He graduated magna cum laude from Bryan College in 2005 with a B.A. in Bible and a B.S. in Business Administration, and is currently pursuing an M.A. in Christian Studies from Regent College in Vancouver, Canada. 

He has been discipling guys one-on-one for eight years and speaking with Phil for ten years, including engagements in Canada, Peru, and Africa. He conveys a powerful message for young people on fighting their life-defining battles and imparts to both children and parents Godly principles for living the Christian life in godliness, purity, and purpose.

Event activities / Sessions:

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Living Counter-culturally in an Entertainment-saturated Society

Speaker(s):
Paul Downer
Did you know that entertainment in our culture is not merely a type of activity? It is a subtle, powerful, and holistic life philosophy that has persuaded each of us in countless ways (both with and without our knowledge) to buy into a specific belief system regarding every aspect of our culture and lives. Find out how these forces affect our thoughts (and actions) regarding ourselves, relationships, the purpose of life, heaven, pleasure, technology, the purpose of work, what we can expect out of life, who we should become, and even who we should marry.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Media and Entertainment: Monitoring What Influences Your Family

Speaker(s):
Paul Downer
This session will confront many head-on questions like... How can families avoid the opposite extremes of license and legalism? How can children become equipped and committed to standing alone? How can families engage their world without becoming conformed to its values? How can parents remain involved in their children’s decisions without becoming controlling or invasive? What is the right approach to making family rules and standards? What is the key to fostering character, virtue, and uncommon leadership in your children? 

Kay and Julie Hiramine

Kay Hiramine is the Catalyst for Humanitarian International Services Group (HISG). Kay was born into a first generation Japanese-American home. After graduating in 1986, with a Bachelor of Arts from Occidental College in Los Angeles, California, he worked for Procter and Gamble, where he was ranked as one of the top national salesman in 1988. Kay has an International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance (IDHA), a globally...

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Kay Hiramine is the Catalyst for Humanitarian International Services Group (HISG). Kay was born into a first generation Japanese-American home. After graduating in 1986, with a Bachelor of Arts from Occidental College in Los Angeles, California, he worked for Procter and Gamble, where he was ranked as one of the top national salesman in 1988. Kay has an International Diploma in Humanitarian Assistance (IDHA), a globally recognized diploma which was attained in Geneva, Switzerland. Kay was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Philosphy (PH.D) from Kathmandu International University in June, 2010, in the field of Philanthropy. Kay has a distinguished career in the non-profit sector. He has started multiple non-profits and has overseen global initiatives involving millions of people and every country of the world. Kay is one of the founders of Humanitarian International Services Group (HISG), located in Palmer Lake, CO. He has worked with NGOs, IOs, government officials, business leaders and faith based groups in humanitarian activities around the world.

Julie Hiramine is the Founder and Executive Director of Generations of Virtue, a ministry that equips parents to empower their children for purity in our world today. As an internationally noted speaker, author, and Christian leader, Julie has encouraged and impacted parents and teens both in the US and internationally through her speaking and written materials. Julie graduated from Pepperdine University with dual Bachelors' degrees in Non-profit Business Management and Sociology. Julie's background in youth ministry has shaped her into a passionate advocate for raising the next generation to fulfill their God-given destinies.

Kay and Julie homeschool their five daughters in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

 

 

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

03:45PM

Setting a Paradigm for Purity

Speaker(s):
Kay and Julie Hiramine
EXHIBITOR WORKSHOP presented by Julie Hiramine of Generations of Virtue. “How in the world am I supposed to tell my kids about sex?!” That seems to be the question (and fear) on every parent’s mind. We as parents realize that if we don’t talk to our kids, the media will. You’ll discover practical, insightful information on how to talk with your kids (preschool and up) age-appropriately, about virtue, character, purity, future relationships, Godly sexuality, media discernment, etc.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Raising a Family of World Changers

Speaker(s):
Kay and Julie Hiramine
Do you long to be a world changer for Christ? You don't have to travel the world to powerfully impact the lives of those in your community. Although many modern-day missionaries have been called internationally, what about those suffering right at your back door?  Just as Jesus and his disciples personally went and ministered in His time, you can learn how you and your family can impact the world around you for the kingdom of God. Join Kay and Julie Hiramine with their family for this exciting and enlightening workshop on becoming a "World Changer" right where you are!

Eileen Hoffman

Eileen Hoffman and her husband Kion started homeschooling when their first child was born in 1985. They have five children, all of whom they have homeschooled from birth through high school. Every day is an adventure when there is a child in it. Eileen always loves to talk about and encourage others in the great adventure of homeschooling. There is no better way to raise a family in the Lord. Their family is now starting on the next...

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Eileen Hoffman and her husband Kion started homeschooling when their first child was born in 1985. They have five children, all of whom they have homeschooled from birth through high school. Every day is an adventure when there is a child in it. Eileen always loves to talk about and encourage others in the great adventure of homeschooling. There is no better way to raise a family in the Lord. Their family is now starting on the next generation of students with their grand daughter Hope. Eileen serves as a MACHE Liaison in the northern Minnesota area. 

Event activities / Sessions:

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Hot Topics for Support Group Leaders

Speaker(s):
Eileen Hoffman
This workshop will be moderated by Eileen Hoffman. It will include a presentation on issues and solutions for support group leaders. Several veteran leaders will be present for a question/answer time. This will be a time to meet, talk, and encourage other leaders.  There are no handouts for this workshop.

Bill Jack

Bill Jack is an educator with ten years experience in secular schools and fourteen years with the Caleb Campaign, a creationist youth ministry.  He is faculty advisor for Worldview Academy, an academic leadership program which seeks to train Christian students to think and live in accord with Biblical worldview so that they will serve Christ and lead the culture.

Appearing on several radio and television programs...

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Bill Jack is an educator with ten years experience in secular schools and fourteen years with the Caleb Campaign, a creationist youth ministry.  He is faculty advisor for Worldview Academy, an academic leadership program which seeks to train Christian students to think and live in accord with Biblical worldview so that they will serve Christ and lead the culture.

Appearing on several radio and television programs, Bill’s passion is to raise up a generation of people who have the vision to reach their culture with the gospel, who have the valor to engage that culture with the truth, and who rely on the virtue of the Word of God. Students nationwide have learned from Bill at conferences sponsored by the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) and Answers in Genesis.  He is the producer of several videos including Simple Tools for Brain Surgery. He will be leading MACHE’s 2012 TeenTrack.

Bill and his wife Tabby homeschool their three children in Castle Rock, Colorado.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

The Ways of the Wizards versus the Way of the Wiseman (Colossians 2:8)

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
Train your students to discern worldviews and to understand their impact on every aspect of our culture. We will analyze the impact of worldviews on our culture through interviews with those who hold opposing worldviews. This is a great opportunity to learn practical tools to reach non-Christians and to confront the culture with the Truth.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Simple Tools for Brain Surgery (II Corinthians 10:5)

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
Non-Christians seem to have the advantage in our culture. We, as Christians, are sometimes intimidated by or even afraid to talk with many atheists, new-agers, evolutionists and other wizards. Too often, we fear we won’t have answers to their tough questions. Be encouraged. Learn four killer questions that will help to destroy the wizards’ secular thinking that is encasing the minds of friends, relatives and others. Learn to destroy the wizards’ sloppy, secular arguments without destroying the person.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Counterfeit Reality

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
The biggest and most enduring counterfeit reality of all time is most cleverly foisted upon people through film. See how moviemakers convey a secular worldview to the public…in the blink of an eye! Keep in mind Colossians 2:8 and keep focused on Bill Jack’s media examples and use of technological illusions. Otherwise, you may lose sight of true reality.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Is Following Christ Just a FAD?

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
Will following Christ pass the test of time? Christian parents and teachers want their children and their students to love God with all their “heart, soul, mind, and strength” and they commit to training their children to this end. Exactly how does that translate into our culture? What is a FAD? Learn the three characteristics Christians must have and must instill into their teens if they want Christianity to be a FAD for the next generation. The wizard’s promises become the illusion of a fad, a passing fancy.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

You Gotta' Have Heart (Jeremiah 17:9)

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
The secular wizards offer the appearance of compassion. In reality it is merely smoke and mirrors. Meet some of these wizards who claim love is a many splendored thing that begins with self-love. These wizards proclaim selfishness is the proper attitude. In contrast, come learn the way of the Wiseman. There are no handouts for this workshop.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Taking What Is Common to the Culture and Turning It into a Pulpit (Acts 17:22)

Speaker(s):
Bill Jack
From peach baskets to pitching mounds, from movies to museums, from…well, come discover what tools and opportunities you might be overlooking to use in reaching this culture. Learn practical strategies and insights!

Mary James

Mary James lives in Bastrop County, Texas, where she home educates her eight children. They have been homeschooling since 1989 and expect to be homeschooling for many years to come. In 1999, Mary co-founded an organization called Smoothing the Way, which seeks to satisfy the needs of new home educators during their first year of homeschooling. Currently, Mary serves on the Texas Home School Coalition Board of...

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Mary James lives in Bastrop County, Texas, where she home educates her eight children. They have been homeschooling since 1989 and expect to be homeschooling for many years to come. In 1999, Mary co-founded an organization called Smoothing the Way, which seeks to satisfy the needs of new home educators during their first year of homeschooling. Currently, Mary serves on the Texas Home School Coalition Board of Directors and continues her popular speaking ministry at several homeschool conferences each year. In her workshops, Mary draws not only from her personal experience as a homeschooling mom, but also from her many years of working with those families new to this lifestyle. Much of what she presents will also encourage home education parents who have been at it a while, but just need some review and encouragement. Speaking from her heart with warmth and humor, she encourages her listeners to face the often daunting task of educating their children at home.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

Which Way Do I Go?

Speaker(s):
Mary James
This workshop explains the most popular teaching methodologies (textbook, living book, unit studies, classical, and unschooling), and gives attendees a close-up look at the convention exhibitors. This workshop is personalized for each convention, using your workshop schedule and exhibit hall floor plan.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

Top Ten Homeschooling Myths

Speaker(s):
Mary James
Dispelling the top ten myths of homeschooling will clarify your understanding of what homeschooling should be.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Building Readiness Skills

Speaker(s):
Mary James
The 2 R's of teaching preschoolers are readiness and relationship. What activities are important during these formative years? How do you capture your child's heart and instill in them a love of learning that will carry you through their school years? Gain insight and inspiration from a homeschooling mother of eight.

Diane Kummer

Diane Kummer and her husband Tom home educated their two children from kindergarten through 12th grade using a variety of teaching options. The Kummers’ daughter has completed her master’s degree in government and their son earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications and public relations.

As an HSLDA High School Coordinator, Diane regularly speaks at homeschool conferences, writes articles and brochures on high...

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Diane Kummer and her husband Tom home educated their two children from kindergarten through 12th grade using a variety of teaching options. The Kummers’ daughter has completed her master’s degree in government and their son earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications and public relations.

As an HSLDA High School Coordinator, Diane regularly speaks at homeschool conferences, writes articles and brochures on high school topics, and has a heart to inspire moms in their teaching. “The joy and grace of the Lord are available—and He has provided many avenues of care and help along the way,” she says. She provides personal consultation to HSLDA members and encourages parents to keep going and to enjoy teaching high school!

During her homeschooling years, Diane coordinated events, activities, and support meetings for her church’s 190-plus homeschooling families while developing a program that provided evaluation of credits, diplomas, and transcripts for high school families.

Along with songwriters, singers, and actresses from her church, Diane was involved in two videos created by the FunnyMoms to encourage and uplift homeschooling mothers. Her love for math is evident as she continues to teach high school-level math classes for home educated students.

Event activities / Sessions:

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

09:00AM

10:15AM

The Scoop on Tests for Teens

Speaker(s):
Diane Kummer
Are you in a quandary as to what tests your teens need to take during high school? Do you know the array of possible tests—from college admissions tests to tests for college credit, placement, or military enlistment to tests necessary for certain scholarships to even career tests? When should they be taken? Where? How can your teen prepare for them? Come and get these questions answered.

Peggy Ployhar

Peggy Ployhar’s passion is to serve God wherever He calls and to motivate others to do the same.  The common thread in all of Peggy’s lessons, lectures, writings, and retreats is the truth that God is present in all of life’s circumstances, and believers need to be ready and always on the alert to see how God is uniquely revealing Himself in their lives.

For the Ployhar family, their homeschooling adventure began...

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Peggy Ployhar’s passion is to serve God wherever He calls and to motivate others to do the same.  The common thread in all of Peggy’s lessons, lectures, writings, and retreats is the truth that God is present in all of life’s circumstances, and believers need to be ready and always on the alert to see how God is uniquely revealing Himself in their lives.

For the Ployhar family, their homeschooling adventure began over 9 years ago when her oldest son was diagnosed with Asperger Syndrome. Over time, God increased the passion of the Ployhar family to not only homeschool their oldest son, but all of their children and likewise encourage other families they encounter with similar situations to follow in their footsteps.

Peggy is the former MÂCHÉ Special Needs Coordinator and MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Area Coordinator for Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. She is certified by the American Association of Christian Counselors and, with her training, she has given countless individuals the courage to step out in faith and trust God with the results of their faithful obedience.

Peggy lives in Kenyon, MN, on a hobby farm with her husband Doug, their three children, and an ever increasing menagerie of farm animals.

Event activities / Sessions:

Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Healthy Eating = Healthy Family

Speaker(s):
Peggy Ployhar
You have heard these suggestions over and over again: eat healthy...avoid bad fats...increase your bean consumption..and many more of the like.

Frank Sherwin, M.A.

Frank Sherwin, M.A., received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Western State College, Gunnison, Colorado, in 1978. He attended graduate school at the University of Northern Colorado, where he studied under the late Gerald D. Schmidt, one of the foremost parasitologists in America. In 1985, Mr. Sherwin obtained a masters degree in zoology. He published his research in the peer-reviewed Journal of...

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Frank Sherwin, M.A., received his bachelor’s degree in biology from Western State College, Gunnison, Colorado, in 1978. He attended graduate school at the University of Northern Colorado, where he studied under the late Gerald D. Schmidt, one of the foremost parasitologists in America. In 1985, Mr. Sherwin obtained a masters degree in zoology. He published his research in the peer-reviewed Journal of Parasitology.

He contributes his scientific expertise to a variety of Institute of Creation Research (ICR) publications on creation science. He is the author of The Ocean Book and co-author of The Fossil Record: Unearthing Nature's History of Life and The Human Body: An Intelligent Design. Frank Sherwin and is one of ICR's most sought-after speakers.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Mount St. Helens

Speaker(s):
Frank Sherwin, M.A.
Although only Noah and his family saw the Genesis flood occur, the Mount St. Helens explosion offers an outdoor laboratory of processes that probably occurred during the yearlong event (Genesis 6-9). Many of the features which geologists believe take long periods have been seen to form rapidly: deposition, erosion, fossilization, petrifaction, coal formation, and radioisotope dating. All these areas of study point to a young earth! Come learn insights which will help you reinforce Biblical truths about Creation - scientifically.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Evolution Is Against the Law!

Speaker(s):
Frank Sherwin, M.A.
Throughout our years of grade school and high school, we were taught that science has a number of laws, such as the law of cause and effect and the laws of genetics. Using nontechnical language and easy-to-grasp concepts, Mr. Sherwin takes the audience through six of the best-known laws of science showing why the biblical case for creation is supported by each and every law of science. Conversely, evolutionism fails at each one—it’s against the law!

Debbie Strayer

Debbie Strayer: After receiving several degrees in English and education, Debbie spent several years in the classroom - elementary school to the college classroom. She spent time understanding the needs of her students and finding creative ways to meet them.

In 1988, the Strayer family embarked on a different path - answering the call they felt to homeschool. It gave them a chance to know their two children deeply and...

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Debbie Strayer: After receiving several degrees in English and education, Debbie spent several years in the classroom - elementary school to the college classroom. She spent time understanding the needs of her students and finding creative ways to meet them.

In 1988, the Strayer family embarked on a different path - answering the call they felt to homeschool. It gave them a chance to know their two children deeply and to enjoy and appreciate their gifts and talents. Their son and daughter both received scholarships for college and the confidence for life produced by their customized education. 

In 1990, the Strayers began their years as creators of curriculum and resources for homeschoolers, notably as two of the co-authors of Learning Language Arts through Literature, and as founders of the Homeschooling Today Magazine. Debbie provides tutoring, evaluations, and consultations for homeschoolers and their parents, as well as speaking at conferences, moms‘ retreats, and graduations.

 

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Language Arts That Really Communicate

Speaker(s):
Debbie Strayer
Children are born with a God-given desire to communicate! In this seminar, Debbie will talk about the key areas of communication and how to develop your child’s skills in each area. As Christian homeschooling parents, we have been freed from “worldly philosophies” and are able to do what is efficient and effective. Come and learn about ways to decrease stress and increase productivity in your language arts instruction!
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

12:00PM

01:15PM

Giving and Receiving Grace for Leadership

Speaker(s):
Debbie Strayer
While the worldly model of leadership gives advice for success, servant leadership asks us to lay the groundwork for growth. As you lead and mentor leaders, grace is important in all you do. Come to hear ways to sow and reap a harvest of grace for your group, and more importantly, your family during your season of service! This is a "By Invitation Only" workshop.  There are no handouts for this workshop.

Vicki Tiede

Vicki Tiede, wife, mother, teacher, motivational speaker, and published author, has an enthusiasm about God’s grace that is contagious. She began Grace Lessons, her speaking ministry, in 2002 with the passion to encourage and equip women to face the inevitable challenges of motherhood, marriage, and walking with Christ.

Vicki shares her life with her husband and home educates their three children in Rochester,...

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Vicki Tiede, wife, mother, teacher, motivational speaker, and published author, has an enthusiasm about God’s grace that is contagious. She began Grace Lessons, her speaking ministry, in 2002 with the passion to encourage and equip women to face the inevitable challenges of motherhood, marriage, and walking with Christ.

Vicki shares her life with her husband and home educates their three children in Rochester, Minnesota. Vicky taught deaf and hard-of-hearing children for 12 years before staying home with her family. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree in ministry through the Antioch School of Church Planting and Leadership Development, BILD International.

Vicki is the author of When Your Husband Is Addicted to Pornography: Healing for Your Wounded Heart (due to release in October 2012) and Plug Me In and Let Me Charge Overnight. She is a contributing author of six books and has written numerous articles and supplements. Vicki also co-authored Sippies, Bubbles, and Big Fun: Oodles of Options for Rochester Families in the Rochester, Minnesota area.

 

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Parenting on Your Knees: Prayers and Practical Guidance for Parents

Speaker(s):
Vicki Tiede
In the unique seasons of parenting, there are many obstacles to overcome in order to spend time with God. Vicki offers hope and encouragement to parents of preschool, school age, and teenage children as they learn to scale the walls and approach Christ's throne on behalf of their children.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

This Is NOT What I Signed Up For!

Speaker(s):
Vicki Tiede
Is it only January and hair is being pulled out and there's an awful lot of kicking and screaming when it's time to start school...and that's coming from you, the parent? Perhaps you are thinking this homeschooling thing is not what you signed up for. Participants will laugh and cry together as we celebrate the good, bad, and ugly sides of homeschooling. Vicki will equip you to find joy in this journey of homeschooling.

John Tuma

John Tuma and his wife Wendy live in Northfield, Minnesota, with their two children. They met while John was in law school and Wendy was working as a legal secretary. John’s career began as an attorney for a firm in the Northfield area. In 1991, he opened his own solo practice and Wendy stepped in to assist him. John entered the political arena in 1994, when he was elected State Representative for their district,...

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John Tuma and his wife Wendy live in Northfield, Minnesota, with their two children. They met while John was in law school and Wendy was working as a legal secretary. John’s career began as an attorney for a firm in the Northfield area. In 1991, he opened his own solo practice and Wendy stepped in to assist him. John entered the political arena in 1994, when he was elected State Representative for their district, and he served in office for four consecutive terms. As a Representative, John had the honor of chairing the Crime Prevention Committee and was one of the chief authors of the state’s terrorist bill developed as a result of the September 11 terrorist attack. John remains active at the Capitol as a lobbyist. John’s and Wendy’s desire to give their children a Biblical foundation and to be involved in their education, as well as their need for a flexible schedule in order to spend time together as a family, led them to homeschool their children. John and Wendy have served on the MACHE Board since 2002.  Both feel God has called them to be a part of this ministry to homeschooling families. John has a deep desire to use his God-given gifts and legal training to assist homeschooling families understand the law and legislation. His struggle with dyslexia since his youth has also given him a heart for parents with special needs children.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

12:15PM

01:15PM

Questions and Answers on the New Minnesota Homeschool Law

Speaker(s):
John Tuma
MÂCHÉ board member and attorney John Tuma will give a brief overview of what is new in Minnesota homeschooling law. Most of this session will be given over to a time for questions and answers, so come with any questions you may have. There are no handouts for this breakout session.

Cindy Wiggers

Cindy Wiggers is an author, publisher, and national speaker, and she established a family business, Geography Matters, with her husband in 1989.

She has a heart to help parents inspire their children with a love for learning. Her workshop presentations are full of practical ideas from true-life experiences gained from home schooling her three very different children and her intense desire to see homeschool families succeed beyond their...

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Cindy Wiggers is an author, publisher, and national speaker, and she established a family business, Geography Matters, with her husband in 1989.

She has a heart to help parents inspire their children with a love for learning. Her workshop presentations are full of practical ideas from true-life experiences gained from home schooling her three very different children and her intense desire to see homeschool families succeed beyond their hopes and dreams.

She is the author of Trail Guide to World Geography and Trail Guide to U.S. Geography, and co-authored two other books and published several articles in various homeschooling magazines. Cindy is an interpreter for the deaf, leads a women’s in-home Bible study group, and is a MOPS mentor. Her interests include nutrition and fitness, spending time with her grandchildren, and engaging in adventure with friends.


Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

The Secret of Adding Spice to Any Curriculum

Speaker(s):
Cindy Wiggers
Did you know George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and Thomas Jefferson all kept notebooks? Explore this natural approach to education that encourages your students to be lifelong learners! Open the door to self-motivation, academic excellence, creativity, and true learning for your children through notebooking. See how readily it adapts into any home education program and how to start your family on this exciting journey of discovery learning.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Thinking outside the Box

Speaker(s):
Cindy Wiggers
Do you have trouble keeping your students interested in learning? Perhaps it’s time you begin to think outside the box. Leonardo da Vinci approached knowledge from a unique perspective. Discover techniques used by da Vinci that, when implemented, will improve critical thinking and creativity, inspiring your students to want to gain knowledge. You can create an environment that develops a delight for learning and improves your children’s ability to excel in any area they choose to pursue.

Anna Downer Youngs

Anna serves as the full time Field Staff Director of the DNA Young Women's Ministry with Discipleship Network of America. A Presidential Scholar, she is a 2009 graduate of Bryan College where she studied Spanish and Bible. At Bryan College, Anna served as Vice President of her freshman class, a traveling presenter on the World View Team, and has been an adjunct speaker at conferences and conventions with DNA Ministries...

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Anna serves as the full time Field Staff Director of the DNA Young Women's Ministry with Discipleship Network of America. A Presidential Scholar, she is a 2009 graduate of Bryan College where she studied Spanish and Bible. At Bryan College, Anna served as Vice President of her freshman class, a traveling presenter on the World View Team, and has been an adjunct speaker at conferences and conventions with DNA Ministries for eight years.

Anna was homeschooled and was a member of the back-to-back national championship mock trial team. Anna is passionate about mentoring and discipling girls and enjoys traveling the country speaking to high school students and their parents about the core identity, cultural, and spiritual issues that are facing the up and coming generation.

Sam and Anna are passionate about one-on-one and small-group ministry that emphasizes both the deep truths of Christianity alongside discipleship and relationality. They currently live in Dayton, Tennessee.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

10:30AM

11:45AM

God's Design and a Girl's Fractured Identity

Speaker(s):
Anna Downer Youngs
We have the story wrong!!! Girls today are bombarded by false and destructive messages from every direction. Even girls who are being raised in strong Christian families often buy into these cultural messages. Girls learn that their worth and beauty are found in being sexually enticing, their strength is found in being manipulative, their safety is found in being in control, and their confidence is found in perfection, productivity, and high performance.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Perfectionism and Grace in the Christian Family

Speaker(s):
Anna Downer Youngs
There is a common, strong, and dangerous tendency for those who are raised in faith in the local church and in Christian families to be so surrounded by messages on the importance of character, obedience, correct beliefs, loving actions, sacrifice, generosity, service, and more that the gut-level summary of the Christianity they begin to live out is nothing more than a graceless perfectionism. Perfectionism is a prison of performance and a cage of conditional love. This is not a depressing presentation!

Sam Youngs

Sam is Adjunct Professor of Worldview and Christian Thought at Bryan College and Adjunct Professor of Religion at Chattanooga State Community College. He earned his B.A. in Religious Studies and Literature at the University of South Florida and his M.A. in Religion at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. While earning his graduate degree he served as both a research assistant and a teaching assistant in the...

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Sam is Adjunct Professor of Worldview and Christian Thought at Bryan College and Adjunct Professor of Religion at Chattanooga State Community College. He earned his B.A. in Religious Studies and Literature at the University of South Florida and his M.A. in Religion at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in South Hamilton, Massachusetts. While earning his graduate degree he served as both a research assistant and a teaching assistant in the areas of philosophy and theology.

Sam is a longtime colleague of Summit Ministries, which specializes in intensive conferences for high school and college age students, focusing on apologetics, engaging the culture, and reaching people for Christ. After serving as a Summit counselor for two years, he was promoted to the Director of the Men's Staff in 2010, which focused intensely on staff training and discipleship.

Event activities / Sessions:

Friday, April 13th, 2012

01:30PM

02:45PM

Preparing Teens for the Spiritual Battles after Graduation

Speaker(s):
Sam Youngs
Our children have so many choices before them these days when it comes to choosing a college. How can we as parents help and guide them to make the right choice? This session focuses on the necessity of giving Christian students a healthy and intellectually engaged outlook on their faith before they go off to college.
Friday, April 13th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Why Worldview Thinking Changes Everything

Speaker(s):
Sam Youngs
As parents, we have chosen to disciple our children to grow and walk with the Lord, but now we are preparing them to be salt and light in a needy world.  This session focuses on explaining the most pivotal moral, religious, and cultural viewpoints of the Western World, including Humanism, New Age, Postmodernism, and Islam. Sam Youngs will not only describe key facets and thinkers within these worldviews, but will also discuss how students (in particular at the college level) can apply this knowledge in a critical yet Christ-affirming manner.
Saturday, April 14th, 2012

03:00PM

04:15PM

Truth in An Age of Pluralism: Understanding Other Faiths

Speaker(s):
Sam Youngs
How well do you understand the world we live in and the various belief systems by which people live? In order for us (as well as our children) to be bright lights in this dark world, we need to know what we can expect to encounter when sharing the gospel with others. This session focuses on a fair and thorough examination of non-Christian belief systems. A vast plurality of religions exists today, especially in America, that Christians are ill-prepared to understand or discuss.