Homeschool Nations - Maine - Homeschool Blogger

Home Update

Fri, 18 Sep 2009 08:56:00 -0500

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HOME Update, September 18, 2009

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Please forward information on the following issues to homeschoolers that you are in contact with:

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1. HOME Upcoming Events

2. ParentalRights.org

3. Opportunities of Interest

4. Please Support HOME!

5. Visit our Website for the Latest News and Information!

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1. HOME Upcoming Events

*** Upcoming Getting Started in Homeschooling Workshops

Are you just beginning to homeschool? Are you researching the option for your family? Plan to attend this workshop!

We will cover the following topics:

Maine’s new homeschooling law

Record keeping

Curriculum planning

Helpful resources

Portfolios and evaluations

Support groups

Special needs

And much more!

Ø Saturday, October 3, 2009 at 2:00pm at the HOME Office in Hope. Call the HOME office at 763-2880 to register.

Ø Saturday, Oct 24, 2009 at 10:00am at First Free Will Baptist Church in Hollis. Several other workshops will be offered during this day-long event for homeschoolers. For more information, contact Brett Davis at brettdavis@securespeed.us

*** HOME Moms' Retreat, Saturday November 21, 2009

Join other homeschool moms and singer/songwriter Paulie Heath (www.paulieheath.com) for a day of refreshment! Come with another homeschooling mom for the day, or have an overnight time of rest relaxation. If you stay in the surrounding Camden area, you can plan a walk along the harbor, browse in local shops and visit the wonderful Owl and Turtle Bookstore. For suggestions for accommodations, contact the HOME Office at 207-763-2880.

Presenter: Paulie Heath

Time: 10 AM to 3 PM

Place: HOME Office in Hope, ME

Cost: $10.00 per person (include with registration)

-- Parking space is extremely limited at the HOME office. If it is possible, please consider carpooling!

-- Please bring a bag lunch. Hope General Store nearby offers pizza, soups, salads and excellent sandwiches!

-- Because of our early March Convention, the November Moms' Retreat will be the only one offered this year.

To register please send your name, address, email, phone number and payment to:

Homeschoolers of Maine

PO Box 159

Camden, ME 04843

*** For more details or if you have questions, please contact: The HOME Office at (207) 763-2880 or email homeschl@midcoast

*** For a list of all upcoming HOME Events in 2009, visit http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/event_calendar.htm

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2. ParentalRights.org

*** Calls to Congress

In celebration of Constitution Week, ParentalRights.org has scheduled a major call-in blitz to Congress, urging members to cosponsor the Parental Rights Amendment.

If you are anxious to preserve your parental rights, urge everyone you know to call their congressman and senators throughout the week. Get started today, and maybe even call back in a few days, just to see if they’re listening.

Here’s what you can do:

Check ParentalRights.org’s lists of House cosponsors and Senate cosponsors.
If your congressman or senator is not on the list, go to the States Watch page and click on your state to find their contact information.
Call your congressman and ask him to sign on to cosponsor H.J. Res. 42, the Parental Rights Amendment, to protect parental rights and American and state sovereignty.
Call your senators and urge them to cosponsor S.J. Res. 16, the Parental Rights Amendment, to protect parental rights and American and state sovereignty.
Call or email friends and family and urge them to get in on this campaign as well. Let’s make this a very busy week for the Capitol switchboard!

*** War on homeschoolers spreading?

*** Help Us to Spread the Word

Are parental rights issues important to you? Do you want to learn more, or share these issues with others? We can help! If your church, homeschool group or NAPS group would like to hear more about the current critical issues involving our parental rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, or if you would like more information, please call the HOME Office at 207-763-2880!! The issues are that important!

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3. Opportunities of Interest

*** Exciting Homeschool Field Trip Opportunity!

The Chewonki Foundation will be offering one of their traveling natural history programs especially for homeschoolers just a mile from the HOME Office in Hope! The program will be "Owls of Maine -Habits and Adaptations of Maine's Native Owls" featuring a special appearance by LIVE owls! They specifically list this program as suitable for all ages. You can read more about the Chewonki Foundation and find a description of this particular workshop at www.chewonki.org. The HOME Office/Bookstore will be open for the day. Plan to stop in to visit!

When: October 21, 2009 10:00-11:00 AM

Where: Hope Public Library (also the town hall), 441 Camden Road Hope, Maine

Cost: $12 per family. Please RSVP to Megan at megan.macmillan@gordon.edu or 763-4534, and send a check (made out to HOME) no later than Oct. 1st to: Megan MacMillan 963 Barnestown Road Hope, Maine 04847 to reserve your spot.

*** Folkstory Puppetry Workshop

Join puppeteer Nancy Tyndall this fall and put on a puppet show of a wise and humorous folkstory. Each student will make their own puppet and learn how to use voice and movement expressively. This 6-week workshop series will be held in Liberty at the Liberty town office on Thursday mornings from 9:30 to 11:30, on October 15, 22, 29, and November 5, 12, and 19th. Fee is $75. Contact Nancy Tyndall at 342-2466 or milkweedpuppet@yahoo.com to register or for more information.

*** Merryspring Nature Center

Autumn is a wonderful time of year to wander in the woods. The weather is cool, the footing is dry, the bugs are (almost) gone, leaves on trees make identification easier and the fall colors are beautiful. It’s the perfect season to learn more about the trees and forests around us. This month, Merryspring Nature Center in Camden will offer a variety of programs for people who would like to become better acquainted with one of Maine’s most valuable natural resources. Many of the programs may be of interest to homeschool students.

A few programs are listed below, along with approximate age recommendations:

Tree Identification Talk/Walk
Tuesday, Sept. 22 from 2:30-4:30 p.m.
(Appropriate for high school age; 14 and up; this program is free for children)

Join Midcoast district forester Morten Moesswilde from the Maine Forest Service to learn how to identify some of Maine’s common tree species. The program will start inside with a talk, followed by a walk around the park to practice identification techniques. ($5; free for children and Merryspring members)

Tree Talk Family Workshop
Sunday, Sept. 27 from 1-3 p.m.
(Designed for ages 5-12; fun for all; this program is FREE for all)

Tree Talk is a free program for kids and grown-ups! Meet a Maine forester, sample some tasty treats from trees and join a tree scavenger hunt around the park to learn how to identify common Maine trees. Attendees can also learn more about invasive pests that threaten Maine’s forests—and what to do about it—at the USDA’s information booth. Activities are designed for ages 5-12 but are open to all ages. All children must be accompanied by an adult. In case of rain, activities will be moved indoors. (FREE)

Arboretum Trails
Open Every Day, Sunrise to Sunset

If formal programs aren’t your thing, you might prefer to take a stroll through Merryspring’s 10-acre Kitty Todd Arboretum. The arboretum is home to a wide variety of tree and shrub species—along with birds, animals and wildflowers—and is the sight of some of the park’s best trails. If you are lucky, you might even spot the pair of barred owls that nest there!

Merryspring is a member-supported, non-profit nature education center and park located at the end of Conway Road in Camden. The park grounds and trails are open free of charge, every day, from sunrise to sunset. For more information

For more information, contact:

Rachel Potter
Merryspring Nature Center
P.O. Box 893
Camden, ME 04843
Phone: 207-236-2239
Fax: 207-230-0663
rachel@merryspring.org

*** From Stand for Marriage Maine - Volunteers Needed!

Visit www.standformarriagemaine.com for news and events information, and to find out more about volunteering and supporting the efforts of this organization.

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4. Please Support HOME!

*** Homeschooling Across America: Academic Achievement and Demographic Characteristics

HOME Used Curriculum Sale

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 09:16:00 -0500

The Homeschoolers of Maine's annual Used Curriculum Sale is this coming weekend, June 6th at the St. Paul center.
Below is the information from the website at http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org.

HOME's Used Curriculum Sale!

Be a participant! Sell or buy at this year's used curriculum event!

Countdown to the sale

Date: Saturday, June 6, 2009
Time: 9:30am - 1:00pm
Place: St. Paul’s Center in Augusta

Volunteer & Seller Registration must be in by June 1st!

HOME's 2008 Used Curriculum Sale was a huge success! It was wonderful to have so many dedicated volunteers who helped the sale go so smoothly! The new sales tags and check out procedure allowed buyers to move through the check out line within 10 minutes! This year's sale is coming soon and we look forward to seeing you there. The rules and sales tags will stay the same as last year. (If you participated in the 2008 sale and are participating in the 2009 sale with items that were in the 2008 sale, you will need to retag your items with the current year tags to eliminate loss of tags due to age.) Please help HOME by sharing information of the 2009 Used Curriculum Sale with your friends, and plan to participate as a seller, a buyer or both! HOME will be holding a Getting Started Workshop at the sale, and The Heart of HOME Bookstore will also be at the sale!

Used Curriculum Scholarships
Buyer Information
Important Information
Driving Directions
Questions?
Sellers Information
Sale Tags (these are new and must be used!)
Volunteer Information
Sellers Register Online
Seller - Print & Mail Registration
Volunteers Register Online
Volunteer - Print & Mail Registration

Used Curriculum Scholarships

The HOME Used Curriculum Sale provides a great opportunity for homeschooling families to save money and recycle items that are no longer being used. This can be such a blessing to those trying to stay within a tight, one-income family budget! Even so, there may be some families who are in need of a greater blessing. If you or someone you know needs help with curriculum purchases, please contact the HOME Office in writing. We may be able to offer some assistance at our Used Curriculum Sale. Please submit a letter explaining your situation. Do not call. You will be notified regarding your eligibility. Send your letter to the HOME Office, no later than June 1, 2009.

To purchase items at the sale. . .

. . . you may use a check or cash, we are not equipped for credit cards
. . . bring sturdy bags in which to carry your purchases
. . . wear comfortable shoes and clothing
. . . bring a list of needed curriculum
. . . You will have 3 1/2 hours to shop. This will be an intensive time of shopping. You will find it easier to concentrate if you can make childcare arrangements for your children.

We would like to point out IMPORTANT information for the Used Curriculum:

Location—St. Paul’s Center in Augusta

New format from years past—no long lists of books that must be sent to us!
Sales tags—you MUST use copies of our new Curriculum Sales Tag.
Sales money will be sent within three weeks to the seller. We will NOT be giving out money at the sales.
You may bring a friend’s items to sell—All sellers must have their own participant number. Numbers may not be shared by more than one seller. - HOME must have a Sellers Release signed by each seller.
You will have 3 1/2 hours to shop—this will be an intensive time of shopping. You will find it easier to concentrate if you can make childcare arrangements for your children.

Directions to the St. Paul Center in Augusta
From the North take Exit 109A from the Maine Turnpike (I-95), and from the South take Exit 109 onto Western Avenue. Drive approximately one mile to the rotary (traffic circle). Continue 3/4 around the circle to a one-way road. Take the left fork to State Street. Make a right turn onto State Street. The parking lot entrance to the Center is on the left (before you reach Green Street).

Driving Distances: Kittery - 105 miles, Freeport - 39 miles, Boothbay Harbor - 36 miles, Camden - 42 miles, Bar Harbor - 123 miles, Bangor - 77 miles.

Sellers Information

HOME would like to thank you for your interest in participating in our Curriculum Sale 2009. The used curriculum sale is a highlight for many homeschoolers in Maine and it is an easy way for you to support Homeschoolers of Maine. It is also an easy method to support HOME. Your participation as a seller is crucial to the event’s success. Your used books and educational materials may be just what another homeschooler needs! HOME will keep 20% of your sales to help finance the ministry to Maine homeschoolers. Please be sure to read over the instructions for selling as they have changed a great deal from past years.

To participate you will need:

To Register by June 1, 2009
A Participant Number (provided by HOME) Participant numbers may not be shared by more than 1 person.
HOME Used Curriculum Sale Tags properly filled in with your information (You must use a copy of these tags!)
A pen with black or blue ink. (please no crayons) Please be careful to write legibly.

It is very important that the following instructions are followed when selling your items

Before the sale. . .

You must register by June 1, 2009 and receive a Participant Number.

If you participated in the 2008 sale and are participating in the 2009 sale with items that were in the 2008 sale, you will need to retag your items with the current year tags to eliminate loss of tags due to age.

You must tag your own items before delivering them to the sale.

You must remove all old stickers from previous sales before putting on your new tags. (Check for old prices on the inside of the cover also.)

You Must use a copy of the HOME Used Curriculum Sales Tag. We recommend you copy the tags several times, write in all the information which will be the same on a number of tags (such as participant number, category, price, etc.) and then make as many copies as you need. (Each item will need two tags.) On the tag you will write the participant number, price, grade, category, and title. Tape a tag on the upper right hand corner of the front cover, and a duplicate tag on the inside front cover. Please adhere them with scotch tape on the vertical edges. (See example above, right.) (Duplicate tags identify an owner if the outside tag comes off. We cannot sell items that do not have tags! The tags are the only record we will have of the item you are selling.) When an item is purchased, the tag on the front cover will be cut off and used as verification of the sale. Please write with blue or black ink, not crayon or markers, and please do not let the children help unless they are very neat and their writing is legible.

For non-book items please tape two tags to each item. Games and Manipulatives that have little pieces need to be in Ziploc bags.

The sale categories to list on the tags are:

Art	Bible	CD’s & Videos
Foreign Languages	Games	Geography
Grammar	Health	High School
History	Home Ec.	Language Arts
Literature	Manipulatives	Math
Music	Phys Ed.	Pleasure Reading
Reading & Phonics	Reference Books	Science
Spelling & Vocabulary	Unit Studies	Complete Curriculum
Miscellaneous

When selling a set of materials, please tape a completed tag on each item. (The selling price will be for the set , not each item as if sold individually.) Fill in the # __ of ___. (For example, if the set has three items in it, you would fill in #1 of 3 for the first item in the set, #2 of 3, for the second, and #3 of 3 for the last item. You need to bind them together with heavy elastics. (Please put an elastics on vertically and horizontally.)

Please be sure the selling price you give to an item is the correct price you desire on it. We will not have time for price changes at the sale.

It is your responsibility to keep track of the items you are selling. This year we will have no records of the items you are placing in the sale.
Please sign the Sellers Release and send with your registration or bring to the sale. We MUST have the Sellers Release in order to put your items into the sale.

At the Sale . . .

Please follow the signs to the sale room to deliver your items. On Friday you may deliver your items from 12pm to 6pm.
Please bring your Sellers Release (see below) signed, and give to the Used Curriculum worker at the Sign In Table. You MUST check in with one of the Used Curriculum workers when delivering your items.
If you are bringing a large quantity of items you may be asked to help distribute the items to the various tables. Also, with large quantities of items (over 100 pieces) it would be very helpful if you would separate your items into categories. (I. e. science in one box, reading materials in another, etc.)

After the Sale . . .

At the end of the sale Saturday, please pick up your unsold items, they will be ready at 2:00pm and must be picked up no later than 2:30pm.
You may arrange for someone else to pick up your unsold books if you are unable to pick them up after the sale.
HOME cannot send or deliver them to you.
If you do not arrive by the end of the pickup time, your unsold items will be considered a donation to HOME.

- HOME appreciates your donated items that are used to bless other families and support HOME's ministry.

Due to new postal regulations, tags from your sold items will *not* be mailed to you this year. HOME will keep the tags on file for six weeks after the sale (until July 18), should there be any questions. After that time, the tags will be discarded. Money from the sale of your items will be mailed to you by check within three weeks of the sale. No monies will be given out at the end of the sale day."

To register on line please click here to reach the on line registration.

If you prefer click here to print and mail the forms.

Volunteer Information

Thank you for your desire to volunteer. Your desire to volunteer is the ONLY way HOME can have a Used Curriculum Sale, we rely upon your dedication to the homeschoolers in Maine. The deadline for volunteer registration is June 1, 2009. As a volunteer, who has committed to working a total of 3 hours throughout the event, you will be allowed to shop early— one hour before the sale is open to the public at the Volunteer Sale. YOU will have the first choice of items. ONLY volunteers, working a total of 3 hours or more, are allowed the opportunity to shop at the Volunteer Sale. We have a limited number of volunteer slots to fill, if you desire to volunteer and be a part of the Volunteer Sale, you will want to register early! We have a great need for teens to volunteer on Friday from 12noon - 6pm and Saturday after 1:30pm to help carry boxes of books, help with set up, and take down. If you have good strong teens we would greatly appreciate their help in serving other homeschoolers for several hours during these two days!

HOME Requirements to volunteer. . .

a desire to serve others

a willingness to work hard

ability to smile, even though you are tired!

appropriate clothing—you will probably get dirty!

bring your own meals

We will need volunteers on Friday to. . . We have all the help we need for Friday, Thank you.

carry boxes of books, help collect, sort, distribute, set up, and organize books

We will need volunteers on Saturday to. . .

sort, distribute, and organize books, help direct shoppers and assist those with needs, keep books neat and in their assigned areas, assist with breakdown and clean up, and carry boxes of books.

Please Note:

The Volunteer Sale will take place Saturday, before the general population sale from 8:00am—9:00am.

Teens may volunteer along with their parent. Parent is responsible for their child at all times. (Teens may be a part of the Volunteer Sale if they work 3 hours.)

There will be no walk-in volunteers accepted this year.

The Volunteer slots are limited, register early—the slots are allotted on a first come basis.

To volunteer on line click here.

If you prefer click here to print and mail the form.

SIMPLE MACHINES & INVENTIONS

Wed, 18 Feb 2009 09:27:00 -0600

*SIMPLE MACHINES & INVENTIONS*

They're everywhere! Those simple machines are simply everywhere and
they make our lives easier. What are the simple machines and how do we
recognize them? Where do we find them and how do they really help us?
How many of them are there? Do you have any personal simple machines
of your own? What simple machines have you used today and how did they
make your life a little easier? Will you use them again before you go
to bed again tonight? Who invented/discovered these simple machines
and when? Join us and discover the answers to these questions and a
whole lot more!

WHERE: Central Square Baptist Church in Portland

LEVEL: approximate age 5-8
WHEN: Mondays 9:00-10:00

The dates for this Spring's sessions are
March: 2, 9, 23, & 30
April: 6, 13, 20 & 27
Storm Date: May 4

COST: $13.00 per session (for Greater Portland Homeschooling Family
members) plus a $2.00 activity fee

OR

COST: $15 per session (for non Greater Portland Homeschooling Family
members) plus a $2.00 activity fee

$1.00 per week for the church

GREATER PORTLAND HOMESCHOOLING FAMILIES IS FREE TO JOIN!

This comes to a total of : $8.00 for Central Square Baptist Church and
$106 (GPHF members) / $122 (non GPHF members) for Gordon Corbett.

Please bring full payment on first day of class.

*** For families with two or more siblings taking a class with Gordon
Corbett, the first child pays full price and the siblings' session
fees are discounted 10%. (The full price will be the class that costs
the most.)

Buzz about Bees

Thu, 11 Dec 2008 17:46:00 -0600

The Buzz about Bees

*** Register for the Maine GeoBee by December 15th!

This year, Maine homeschoolers in grades 4-8 have an opportunity to
participate in the National Geographic GeoBee. A local event is being
held Thursday, December 18th at 10:30 a.m. at the York Public Library
located at 15 Longs Sands Road, York, ME 03909.

To register a homeschooler or seek more information, contact Linda at
mainehs@earthlink.net or 207-289-9048. Those registering will receive
additional materials to help prepare for the GeoBee.

To learn more about the GeoBee go to
http://www.nationalgeographic.com/geobee

*** National Bible Bee

The Shelby Kennedy Foundation is launching the first-of-its-kind,
world-class National Bible Bee Competition. The competition will begin
with local contests in communities nationwide on September 12, 2009.
The top 100 finalists from each age group will advance to the National
Contest in Washington D.C. to compete on November 5-6, 2009.

For more information, go to http://www.biblebee.org

TOS Black Friday sale!

Thu, 27 Nov 2008 12:56:00 -0600

The Old Schoolhouse^® Magazine is having an amazing sale on subscriptions during their annual Black Friday Sale November 26 – 30. For those 5 days only, they are actually lowering their new one-year U.S. subscription price to $7.95! That's the price you would usually pay for just one issue at a bookstore!

This is their lowest price ever on the magazine and they want all of you to take advantage of this offer and share the info with your friends.

Please don't miss out. Your one-year subscription will pay for itself time and time again as you receive practical tips and Biblical encouragement to keep going strong in your commitment to homeschooling and to the Lord. Since it's a quarterly magazine, they even have a monthly subscriber's only E-Newsletter called Teacher's Toolbox that will give you seasonal teaching ideas and a free E-Book download! It's like joining a unit study of the month club! The free E-Books alone are valued at almost $250/year. It's really perfect for people who are homeschooling on a shoestring or just wanting to add in some little extras to your teaching.

Plus during the Black Friday Sale, they have all kind of bonus gifts when you spend $50, $75, $100, or $150. Some are electronic downloads that you can download immediately, while other are physical products mailed from various vendors directly to your home.

Visit The Old Schoolhouse store at: www.TheOldSchoolhouseStore.com

Order Yours Today! And don’t miss out on this great price!!!

Great page for Field Trips

Sat, 15 Nov 2008 07:25:00 -0600

I found this link on a homeschool loop.
It lists field trips in Maine.
Happy Homeschooling.

http://www.homeschoolbuyersco-op.org/all-field-trips/?input_state=ME

Forces of Flight

Tue, 28 Oct 2008 08:25:00 -0500

Don't miss the

FINAL EYU EVENT FOR 2008!

CLC's free public science series
Expanding Your Understanding

FORCES OF FLIGHT
OCTOBER 30

(last Thursday of the month, Jan-Oct)

                   6:30-7:30pm
                        Venture Way, Bangor

          Please pre-register by replying to this email or calling

990.2900 x3

Pilot Mike Lessard, FAA Certified Flight Instructor and FAA FAASTeam Lead Representative, will demonstrate a working wing model to visualize air flow over the wing of a plane and the characteristics of a stall.

Following the demonstration youth and adults will have a chance to take part in an interactive discussion and powerpoint on basic aerodynamics and forces, facilitated by Mike.

Younger children will have the opportunity to take part in a flight-related activity with Robin Kennedy, CLC Education Director.

Everyone involved will end the evening by joining together to complete a plane-building challenge!

Cole Transportation Museum

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 09:03:00 -0500

Cole Land Transportation Museum

405 Perry Road
Bangor ME 04401

Monday 10 November 2008

9:45AM

Welcome To Cole Land Transportation Museum

Our purpose at the Cole Land Transportation Museum is to collect,
preserve, and display (before they disappear forever) a cross section
of Maine's land transportation equipment from which this and future
generations will gain knowledge of the past.

We also wish to remember, record and display U.S. military
memorabilia to forever remind this and future generations of the high
price our comrades have paid to protect our freedom

In doing so, we hope to inspire and challenge the young people of
today to continue on in the footsteps of pioneers who have built our
state and country.

Where History Comes Alive!
The Cole Land Transportation Museum's goals include the eight
conditions, identified by the National Center for Student
Aspirations, proven to make a difference for kids. The Museum
experience can be meaningful and thought provoking for children of
all ages:

Heroes
The Museum honors and celebrates the accomplishments of war veterans
and pioneers of the Land Transportation Era. The stories of Allie
Cole, Charlie Flanagan, and our volunteer veterans will inspire your
students.

This is a free field trip!

Please REMEMBER to dress warm!

READY TO SIGN UP?

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?

Please contact Amy Bartlett at 785.2423 or riaabartlett@yahoo.com
with the number attending (as well as ages of the children attending)

BEFORE Friday 24 October 2008.

HOME UPDATE

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 17:08:00 -0500

HOME Update, September 30, 2008

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Please forward information on the following issues to homeschoolers that you
are in contact with:

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1. HOME Upcoming Events
2. Maine News
3. Great Resources
4. Visit our Website for the Latest News and Information!

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1. HOME Upcoming Events

*** Getting Started in Homeschooling

- Saturday, October 4, 2008 at 2:00pm at the HOME Office in Hope

Are you just beginning to homeschool? Are you researching the option for
your family? Plan to attend this workshop!

We will cover the following topics:

Maine’s new homeschooling law
Record keeping
Curriculum planning
Helpful resources
Portfolios and evaluations
Support groups
Special needs
And much more!

Call the HOME office at 763-2880 to register.

*** HOME Moms' Retreat, Saturday November 8, 2008

Come with another homeschooling mom for the day, or have an overnight time
of rest. If you stay in the surrounding Camden area, you can plan a walk
along the harbor, browse in local shops and visit the wonderful Owl and
Turtle Bookstore. For accommodations, visit http://www.camdenme.org

Presenter: Sandra Lovelace of Lifework Forum
Time: 10 AM to 4 PM
Place: HOME Office in Hope, ME
Cost: $10.00 per person (include with registration)
Topics:

Raising Children in God's Peace and Power
Sandra will share some basic truths about approaching parenting under our
heavenly Father's influence. Join us as we come into a fuller understanding
of who God is and what the required disciplines are for the Christian.

Homeschooling on the Domestic and International Front
Sandra will bring a report directly from the International Conference for
Christian Homeschool Leaders recently held in Buffalo NY. She will share
about the exciting gathering of over 600 leaders from more than 12
countries. Sandra will also brief us on the latest developments both in the
USA and around the globe.

Find out more about Sandra and her ministry at www.LifeworkForum.org

-- Parking space is extremely limited at the HOME office. If it is possible,
please consider carpooling!

-- Please bring a bag lunch. Hope General Store nearby offers pizza, soups,
salads and excellent sandwiches!

-- Because of our early March Convention, the November Moms' Retreat will
be the only one offered this year.

To register please send your name, address, email, phone number and
payment to:

Homeschoolers of Maine
PO Box 159
Camden, ME 04843-0159

For more details or if you have questions, please contact:
The HOME office at (207) 763-2880 or email homeschl@midcoast

*** HOME's 19th Annual Convention, March 13 and 14, 2009

Mark your calendar and plan to attend the next convention at the Samoset
Resort in Rockport. In addition to the many blessings you'll receive,
you will be supporting your state organization! Watch our website at
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/convention.htmfor for all of the
latest convention details.

*** HOME Graduation Ceremony at the Convention

Do you have a student graduating from high school in 2008? Please
considering joining other homeschoolers at the HOME Convention to mark
this important milestone.

For all the details, visit our website at
http://homeschoolersofmaine.org/convention_graduation_and_more_8.htm

*** For a list of all upcoming HOME Events in 2007, visit
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/event_calendar.htm

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2. Maine News

*** Non-Approved Private School Letter Due

If you are the administrator of a non-approved private school, and it
is your school's policy to comply with the Board of Education's
"Guidelines for Equivalent Instruction in Non-approved Private
Schools," this is a reminder that your school's annual letter to the
Commissioner of Education is due by October 1. Your letter should
affirm that the school:

1. Meets applicable fire and health laws;
2. Keeps attendance records;
3. Teaches at least 175 days per year; and
4. Provides instruction in the required subjects.

While complying with the guidelines is voluntary, we recommend it,
since it can provide significant legal protection for your school and
students.

*** Subsequent Letters of Intent are Past Due!

In order to comply with Maine law, homeschoolers must file Subsequent
Letters of Intent to homeschool and annual assessment results by
September 1. The Department of Education does not mail out
reminders. Annual assessment results must be included in the same packet
with the Subsequent Letter of Intent. Please go to the link below to
review the process:
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/Complying_easy.htm

If you need assistance, please feel free to contact
the HOME office.

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

3. Great Resources

*** From HSLDA

It’s time to plan for the SAT/ACT college admission tests.
Register online for these tests at the College Board website
or the ACT website. Test schedules and fees are listed there,
as well.

A word to the wise—encourage your teen to prepare before taking
these tests. On HSLDA’s website you can find test prep resources
and tips or purchase an SAT/ACT prep CD. Remember, HSLDA members
are always welcome to call or email the high school coordinators
with questions.

*** Maine State Museum News

Wednesday October 22, 2008 from 9:00am-3:00pm is Earth Science Day at
the Maine State Museum in Augusta. Admission is free for all, with
exhibits and demonstrations focusing on Maine's geology and how it
contributes to our economy, education, and enjoyment. Scientists,
industry professionals, artists and educators from around state will
present hands on activities and information about rocks, fossils, gold
panning, pottery making, and much more. For more information, or to
schedule a visit with a school group, please contact Marion Smith at
207-287-2301. For more info, visit www.mainestatemuseum.org

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

4. Visit our Website for the Latest News and Information!

*** Watch for Legislation News in Maine

Be sure to visit the link below for Maine legislative news.
Also, stay up to date and informed with HOME's Email Updates.
We'll always let you know of any issues that need action!

For more information:
http://homeschoolersofmaine.org/legislative_information.htm

*** The Heart of HOME Newsletter: 2008 Online Issue Available

Great articles are available in the Winter 2008 issue of the Heart
Of HOME Newsletter, Online at
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/current_issue.htm

*** Subscribe to the Heart of HOME

Be sure to subscribe or renew your subscription to the Heart of HOME
Newsletter online with Paypal! Check it out at
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/subscription_form.htm

*** Notice of Intent

For a sample "Notice of Intent" form, visit the HOME website at
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/Directions_for_Notice_of_Intent.htm

*** Maine Law Summary

The HSLDA Maine Law Summary is posted at the HOME website at
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/law_summary.htm

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

*** HOME updates are sent upon request. If you have received this message in
error, if you have received duplicate copies, or if you wish to have your
name removed from our update list, please email us at:
homeschl@midcoast.com. Thank you!

*** If you have found our ministry to be a blessing, please consider sending
a tax-deductible donation to HOME at the address below. Thank you!

Homeschoolers of Maine
PO Box 159
Camden, ME 04843
207-763-2880
homeschl@midcoast.com
www.homeschoolersofmaine.org

Common mistakes made by new homeschoolers

Sat, 2 Aug 2008 09:17:00 -0500

Common Mistakes Made by New Homeschoolers

The following list contains some of the more common mistakes that are often made by families new to homeschooling. These items are in random order and are by no means all of the mistakes that could be made, nor is the existence of this list a guarantee that all new homeschoolers will make these mistakes. In an effort to help families avoid these errors, I have included links to other articles containing further help, encouragement, or explanations.

1. Doubting their ability to teach their own children

2. A. Attempting to copy the schedule, curriculum, or lifestyle of another homeschooling family
B. Attempting to copy public school classroom models for time schedules, room arrangements, or teaching methods

3. Being overly strict with schoolwork, teaching methods, and discipline, thinking that is how to avoid homeschooling failure

4. A. Leaving the house too often, due to over-involvement
B. Not leaving the house enough, due to fear or due to a too-intensive load of schoolwork

5. Trying to do too much -- too many subjects, too many activities, or too many projects

6. Viewing the household chores as Mom's Work, instead of as a team activity that benefits everyone

7. Assuming that what they may have heard about homeschooling is true, without checking into the facts: legal accountability requirements, time or financial commitment, or curriculum availability

8. Giving too much information on official documents

9. Refusing to try alternate methods or materials, even when something is not working well, feeling that changing methods will bring inconsistency

10. Giving up too quickly, instead of allowing themselves time to adapt to this totally new lifestyle (the second year is much easier than Year #1)

Once again, beginning to homeschool your children does not mean that you will make any or all of the above mistakes, especially if you attempt to tailor the academics to your children's interests and fit the educational experiences into your family's lifestyle (instead of the other way around). Guilt-Free Homeschooling is based in the homeschooling method which is comfortable for you and keeps you relaxed (not tense and stressful). Guilt-Free Homeschooling fits your family's lifestyle -- and there can be few mistakes in that.

For more encouragement, browse through the Titles Index for intriguing articles, or check out the category listings in the Topical Index for help with a specific problem you may be enduring.

Posted by Carolyn M @ 4:07 PM | 4 comments

Given permission to reprint by Carolyn Morrison, thank you Carolyn.
Carolyn wants to extend a hello to all Maine homeschoolers.

Drawing Camp Wintergreen Art Center

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 08:04:00 -0500

Drawing Camp

Event Start Date: Monday, August 11, 2008

Event End Date: Friday, August 15, 2008

Event Location: Wintergreen Art Center

Event Description: Grades 7 to 8 Noon to 3pm. Cost $105. Also Grades 9 to 12. Class will focus on classical methods of drawing realistically. Students will be taken step by step as they develop their drawing skills and learn how to draw with more accuracy and beauty. Register by July 1st.

For More Information: Call Molly Hamel at 227-5292

HEART (Home Educators of Aroostook Reaching Tomorrow) Aroostook County Group

Wed, 23 Jul 2008 11:34:00 -0500

Roy and Annette McEndarfer

HOME (Homeschoolers of Maine) Representatives in Aroostook County. 498-3041 mcendarfer@gwi.net

HEART (Home Educators of Aroostook Reaching Tomorrow) is our homeschool support group. We are in the Woodland/Caribou area and meet every Friday. During the summer we have informal kickball here at our home in Woodland. We have ten or so families. If you are interested in learning more about our group or have any questions regarding homeschooling in Aroostook County please contact me... Annette McEndarfer at the above phone number or e-mail which is really best for us.

St. Albans Summerfest 2008

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 17:16:00 -0500
St. Albans Summerfest 2008
Schedule of Events

Friday, July 18th
4:30 to 6:30 pm
grange supper: A Public Supper will be served at the St. Albans Grange Hall, located on Water Street.
7 PM
Zevulon Musical Performance: Family group Zevulon will perform live country, bluegrass and Gospel music at the St. Albans Town Hall, located on Water Street. Visit www.zevulon.com for more information.

Saturday, July 18th
6 to 9 AM
Public Breakfast: The St. Albans Fire Department, located on Water Street, will serve a Public Breakfast.
8 AM
Horseshoe Tournament Registration: Registration for the Horseshoe Tournament begins at Indian Stream Hardware, located off the Palmyra Road.
8:30 AM
Parade Line-Up and Judging: Parade line-up and judging begins at the St. Albans Elementary School, located on the Hartland Road.
9 AM
Decorated Bicycles Assemble: Decorated bicycles will assemble for the Parade at the corner of the Palmyra Road and Main Street for registration and judging.
Horseshoe Tournament: The Horseshoe Tournament, featuring 100% payback, begins at Indian Stream Hardware.
9 AM to 2 PM
Community Services Health and Welfare: Community Services Health and Welfare will be offered at the Town Hall.
10 AM
Parade: The Parade begins from the St. Albans Elementary School and continues through town.
10 AM to 2 PM
Historical Society Open House: The St. Albans Historical Society is holding an Open House in the Heritage Room of the Town Hall and at the East St. Albans Library, located near the Veteran’s Monument.
11 AM
Games Open: Games are offered at the Grange Hall and at Indian Stream Hardware.
Chicken Barbeque: The Hartland-St. Albans Lions Club will serve a Chicken Barbeque at the Grange Hall.
11:30 AM
Money and Toy Piles: There will be Money and Toy Piles at Indian Stream Hardware. Categories are as follows: (1) Toys – 5 years and younger; (2) Money – Ages 6 through 8; (3) Money – Ages 9 through 12.
1 to 2 PM
Three-Legged Sack Races: Three-Legged Sack Races will be held for (1) Ages 5 through 8; (2) Ages 9 through 12; (3) Ages 13 through adult at Indian Stream Hardware.
1;:30 PM
Canoe/Kayak Races Registration: Registrations begin for the Canoe/Kayak Races at the Upper Dam.
2 PM
Canoe/Kayak Races: Canoe/Kayak Races begin on Big Indian Lake by the Upper Dam.
Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest: A Rubber Chicken Throwing Contest is being held at Indian Stream Hardware.
3 PM
Men’s hammer throw: A Men’s Hammer Throw Contest begins at Indian Stream Hardware.
3:30 PM
Pie Eating Contest: A Pie Eating Contest for (1) Ages 5 through 8; (2) Ages 9 through 11; (3) Ages 12 through teen at the Grange Hall.
5 to 7 PM
Pig Roast: The St. Albans Fire Department is sponsoring a Pig Roast.
7 PM
Bluegrass Country Concert: A Bluegrass Country Concert featuring the Misty Mountaineers and Nashville recording artist Perley Curtis is being held at the St, Albans Town Hall. Admission is by donation. Refreshments will be served and a 50/50 Raffle will be drawn.
9 PM (approx.)
Fireworks Display: A Fireworks display will be shown over Big Indian Lake.

Sunday, July 20th
10 AM
Morning Worship Service: A Morning Worship Service is being held at the St. Albans Union Church, located on Main Street.
11:30 AM
Free Barbeque: All are welcome to attend a free Barbeque at the St. Albans Union Church.
12 PM
Musical performance: Dean and Lisa Neal and Family will perform live in concert.
1:30 PM
Old Time Gospel Concert: Kevin Breau and Burleigh Raven will perform old time Gospel musical selections.

Getting Started Homeschooling Workshops

Thu, 10 Jul 2008 12:25:00 -0500
Jim White, Vice President of Homeschoolers of Maine will be presenting a workshop on
Getting Started Homeschooling at two locations and times.

The first location and date is:
Sebec Corner Baptist Church
Sebec
July 26, 2008
10:00 am

The second location and date is:
United Baptist Church
Dover-Foxcroft
Aug 9, 2008
10:00 am

Jim White will present the law, information on support, curriculum and facing challenges.
If you are interested or need more information please contact Jim White at 564-7308.

Subways Every Sandwich Tells a Story contest now open to homeschoolers.

Wed, 9 Jul 2008 11:09:00 -0500
Subway contest, for homeschoolers too!
Enter today.

http://www.subwayfreshbuzz.com/kids/contest.aspx

Here are the rules and regulations from the website.

SUBWAY® is a registered trademark of Doctor's Associates Inc.
©2008 Doctor's Associates Inc. All rights reserved.

EVERY SANDWICH TELLS A STORY – SUMMER SPECIAL CONTEST OFFICIAL RULES

1. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. A purchase will not improve your chance of winning. To enter, visit www.subwaykids.com and submit your child's story and your name, address, daytime phone number, e-mail address, your child's name and grade level. Your child must be in Grade Pre-K – 6. You can also send your child's story along with the information above to: Every Sandwich Tells a Story Contest Summer Special, c/o Scholastic Inc., P.O. Box 711, New York 10012. Contest begins July 1,2008, 12:00 a.m. EST and all entries must be received by August 31, 2008, 11:59 p.m. EST. Parents can enter only one entry for each child in the household.

2. ELIGIBILITY. Contest is open only to legal residents of the United States who are currently over the age of 18 and the story submitted must be by such entrant’s child in Pre-K – 6. Employees and members of their families of Scholastic and Subway Franchisee Advertising Fund Trust, Doctor’s Associates Inc., their parent organization, subsidiaries, and affiliates, and their advertising, promotion and production agencies are not eligible to enter. Void where prohibited or restricted by law.

3. WINNERS. One Grand Prize Winner and Six Runners-Up will be selected by Scholastic from among all eligible entries on or about September 17, 2008 and notified by phone on or about September 22, 2008. One Grand Prize Winner and Six Runners-Up will be chosen based on the creativity and quality of their essay, adherence to the proposed theme, and use of story starters. One Grand Prize Winner will receive a Scholastic gift basket (Approximate retail value: $500), $100 Subway® Card and athletic equipment (Approximate retail value: $5000). Six Runners-Up Winners will receive a Scholastic gift basket (Approximate retail value: $100) and a $100 Subway® Card Prizes are non-transferable, non-assignable and no cash alternative will be offered except by Scholastic in the event of unavailability, in which case a prize of equal or greater value will be awarded. Athletic equipment awarded to the Grand Prize Winner will be selected by Contest Sponsors. Taxes on prizes, if any, are the responsibility of the winners.

4. GENERAL. All entries will become the property of Scholastic and Subway Franchisee Advertising Fund Trust and will not be returned. By entering, entrants agree to abide by these rules, warrant and represent that their entry is accurate and their child's original work and grant to Scholastic and Subway Franchisee Advertising Fund Trust the right to use the winners names, information provided and likeness for purposes of advertising and/or promotion. Winners may be required to sign and return an affidavit of eligibility and liability/publicity release within ten (10) business days of notification attempt or an alternative winner may be selected. By accepting a prize, winners and family members also agree to release Scholastic, Subway Franchisee Advertising Fund Trust, Doctor’s Associates Inc., their parents, subsidiaries, and affiliates, and their advertising, promotion or production agencies from any and all liability, claims or actions of any kind whatsoever for injuries, damages or losses to persons and property which may be sustained in connection with the receipt, ownership or use of the prize and/or participation in the Contest. Taxes, if any, on prizes are the sole responsibility of the winners. Subject to all applicable laws.

5. WINNERS' LIST. The names of the Grand Prize Winner and Six Runners-Up will be available after October 8, 2008. You may request these names by sending a self-addressed, stamped envelope by November 17, 2008 to: Every Sandwich Tells a Story Contest Summer Special Winners List, Scholastic Inc., 557 Broadway, 5th Floor, NY, NY 10012.

Contest Sponsors:
Scholastic Inc., 557 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
SFAFT, 488 Wheelers Farms Rd., Milford, CT 06461

Homeschoolers of Maine upcoming Events.

Sat, 21 Jun 2008 07:48:00 -0500
HOME Upcoming Events

*** Barry Stebbing Returns to Maine!

In July, Barry Stebbing, artist, author and teacher, will be in Maine to
present art classes for homeschoolers aged 5 - adult. Three-day classes are
scheduled for July 21, 22 and 23 from 9:00am - 11:30am or 1:00pm - 3:30pm
in Skowhegan and July 24, 25 and 26 in Rockland from 9:00am - 11:30am.
Classes will include instruction in art appreciation, beginning drawing,
beginning painting, and more!

Register now to receive a reduced rate. Late fees will be applied to those
registering after July 7. For more information and to register for the
Skowhegan class, please contact Tracy Smith at 474-5349 or
onaturel@o-nature-l.com. For more information and to register for the
Rockland class, please contact Kathy Green at 763-2880 or
homeschl@midcoast.com.

For more information on Barry Stebbing, his books and his
classes, please visit www.howgreatthouart.com

*** Getting Started in Homeschooling

- Saturday, August 16, 2008 at 2:00pm at the HOME Office

Are you just beginning to homeschool? Are you researching the option for
your family? Plan to attend this workshop!

We will cover the following topics:

Maine's new homeschooling law
Record keeping
Curriculum planning
Helpful resources
Portfolios and evaluations
Support groups
Special needs
And much more!

Call the HOME office at 763-2880 to register.

*** Saturday Morning Coffee at the HOME Office

Are you in need of support, encouragement, answers or ideas? In some areas
of our state, local support can be hard to find. Help is never really very
far away, though. You are always welcome at the HOME Office! Support from
HOME is always just a phone call or email away. Visits to the HOME Office
are welcomed, too (please call ahead first). Now you can also join other
homeschoolers on the third Saturday of each month at the HOME Office for an
informal time of fellowship and sharing over a cup of coffee. Join us at
10:00am on any or all of the following Saturdays in 2008:

June 21, July 19, August 16, September 20, October 18,
November 15, and December 20 (please call ahead to confirm).

*** For a list of all upcoming HOME Events in 2008, visit
http://www.homeschoolersofmaine.org/event_calendar.htm

Portfolio Reveiws

Fri, 13 Jun 2008 09:58:00 -0500
Portfolio Reveiws
********************************************************************************************************************
Jacquelyn Chovanes, M Ed: Homeschool Portfolio Reviewer

I am a certified teacher and homeschooling mom with quite a few years of experience doing portfolioreview process as convenient and stress-free as possible. I can conduct reviews in person in the Augusta area, or via mail, phone, or email. Please contact me at jchovanes@verizon.net for further details.

***********************************************************************************

I am taking appointments for portfolio reviews at the Penobscot County Cooperative Extension office in Bangor on May 27 and June 17. I have been doing homeschool portfolio reviews since I started homeschooling the first of your five sons, sixteen years ago. I love talking to other homeschool parents about what they have been doing with their students and I've even made some new friends along the way. I charge $50 per family. I will need the name of the child/children being reviewed and your phone number. Please email me at guerin@midmaine.com to sent up an appointment.

Happy Homeschooling,

Stacey Guerin

******************************************************************************************************************
I found this article on the HOME website on portfolio reviews. Did you know that HOME offers portfolio reviews?
You can mail your portfolio to them and they will mail it back to you. You need to get them to HOME by July 1st though so don't delay.
Happy Homeschooling!

Creating a
Meaningful Portfolio

_{by Ellen L. Stanclift}

In many states, creating a portfolio of your child's work is a legal requirement for homeschoolers. Doing so gives the state authorities the reassurance that your child is making sufficient academic progress, as well as provides a written record for your homeschool's program. But, creating a portfolio with meaning and memories can add so much more to your family's homeschool journey. By creating one that is personalized and tailored to your child and your program, you will be creating a book that will be cherished for years to come. Additionally, a well organized, personalized portfolio will give its evaluators a better understanding of your child and your family. This way, your evaluation will be far more significant than one for a more generic or haphazard collection of your child's work.

Compiling your children's portfolios does not have to be difficult, but it can be time consuming. Here are some ways to stay on top of things, as well as ways to put your own personal mark on these "end of year" collections:

Begin organized and stay organized. Keep a file for every subject area, for every child. You will find that just having a folder into which your children can place their work will save you hours of running around at the end of the year. Date all completed worksheets and place them in the appropriate file immediately. For books (like math consumables), you can date the appropriate worksheet and leave it in the book, tearing out examples when you put your portfolio together.

Document everything you can. It's a great deal easier to document field trips, books read, and schedules as you are accomplishing them, then to try to reconstruct the year after it's complete. You can do this on the computer, or simply keep a notebook into which you write all relevant events as they happen.

Write a weekly log. Writing daily lesson plans in advance can be helpful, but for most of us, schedules can change as the week goes by. Doctor's appointments, unforeseen events, needing extra time to complete an assignment or simply moving ahead more quickly can all lead to those lessons changing on a daily basis. If you keep a weekly log for what did take place in your homeschool, you will be able to provide an accurate, written account of what was covered and any special classes your children were able to take.

Take lots of pictures! Not only do photos provide a visual aid in helping to envision your homeschool program, they also afford you the chance to record events as they happen. Pictures don't have to record only the "big" events. Doing a science experiment, curling up reading a book, playing a math game or reading a map are all day-to-day events that you will want to remember in pictures. There are many ways to document these pictures, the most popular of which is the hobby of scrapbooking. Scrapbooking materials and supplies are available from private consultants and in hobby stores. You can decorate pages with journaling, explaining what's happening in each photo, and enhance them with your own creative flair.

Take photos of items too large to fit into the scrapbook. For example, if your child has created a number of wonderful art projects or science experiments, make sure you not only photograph your child working on them, but take ones of the finished project, as well. So many of these special "treasures" are fragile and photographing them will preserve them forever. For prolific artists, you can also assemble an art "show" monthly and photograph the group of projects altogether.

When in doubt, keep it! It's a good idea to keep all sketches, diagrams, spelling tests, maps, current event projects, reports, handwriting samples, book reports, creative writing examples, math worksheets & tests, foreign language samples, ticket stubs to special events (such as museum trips, theater events, etc.) and map & timeline projects. You can always weed out later ! But by saving them in an organized, methodical way, you will be able to pick and choose which samples you can best include.

Give yourself plenty of time to sort and compile your portfolio. Don't wait until the last minute ! I like to give myself some time every day for a few weeks to really create the picture of each of my children I wish to convey. Rushing will only stress you out and make you want to hurry through the process. Take the time to create organized groups for every required category and then pick the 'best' reflections for every quarter for every subject. Using a three-ring binder, I use standard section separators and create different sections for required forms given by the evaluators, book logs, field trip logs, weekly logs, calendar (attendance chart), writing samples (creative writing, as well as reports), handwriting samples, math samples (worksheets & tests), spelling (worksheets & tests), science logs, foreign language samples and photos.

Neatness does count! To provide the clearest record, I take my scrapbook pages and take them to the local copy center and have them color copied. I also find that this presents a tidier, less bulky 'feel' to the pages in our portfolio. Additionally, this keeps our cherished family photos in the family album. Copy centers will reduce and/or resize your scrapbook pages if they don't fit onto a standard 8" x 11". I also have color copies made of my children's writing samples so I don't have to tear out samples from their "final copy" books & journals. Copy centers will do this for you for a nominal fee but some copy centers will allow you to make the copies yourself. Standard Xerox does work but doesn't look as crisp or presentable. Scanning on a high quality scanner on your own home computer might be another viable option, but may not offer you the same resize opportunities as a copy center's professional touch.

Don't forget the basics. Make sure your child's name, address, phone number, age, grade and other relevant information is right on the front of your portfolio. It makes it far easier for evaluators to pertinent information first thing. Additionally, it helps evaluators to know if you use a specific method in your homeschool. For example, if you employ the Charlotte Mason, unit study or Classical methods, it helps your evaluators to have that information right away so that they can best read your portfolio with that in mind.

Have fun! Remember to look at this as your opportunity to share your year with your child's evaluators. Express your passion for homeschooling and your child's special gifts on every page. The love that you convey for your child will clearly show on the pages of your portfolio!

In conclusion, remember that your child's portfolio is a memento that will record his homeschool journey. Ask yourself what meant the most to you this year and make sure all those events or projects are included. Look at this book as your own keepsake, as well as the message you hope to convey to your evaluators. Taking the extra time to make it special will make it a treasure for you, but it will also help to give the best window into your homeschool. Make sure that window is one you want everyone to see! In doing so, you will provide yourself with a record of a moment in time that will last a lifetime.

Author's bio: Ellen Stanclift is a freelance writer and homeschool teacher in Camden, Maine. In her "before children life", she taught 2nd grade in public school, but now enjoys teaching her favorite students, Joshua (9) and Caroline ( 6 1/2).

Editor's note: With Ellen's great ideas you can start the year off right by planning for the end of this year's evaluation today! How easy it will then be to send the portfolio to HOME for your review!

For a portfolio packet visit
http://homeschoolersofmaine.org/portfolio_evaluation_packet.htm

Natural History Series at the Pine Tree State Arboretum

Tue, 3 Jun 2008 13:03:00 -0500

"Take It Outside" Natural History Series at the Pine Tree State Arboretum

Every Thursday in June,12:15-1pm, free (meet at the PTSA Visitor Center)

Thursday, June 5th: "A Walking Natural History Tour of the Pine Tree State Arboretum", lead by Executive Director of the Arboretum, Steve Oliveri.

Thursday, June 12th: "Caring for Bluebirds", lead by Volunteer Extraordinaire, Bernie Slofer.

Thursday, June 19th: "Tree Identification", lead by Naturalist, Dorcas Miller.

Thursday, June 26th: "Beautiful Bugs and Interesting Insects", lead by Maine Forest Service Entomologist, Charlene Donahue.

*To learn more about the Maine Department of Conservation's
"Take It Outside" initiative & to see a calendar of events,
click here.

Desert of Maine

Thu, 8 May 2008 09:29:00 -0500
I found this place to appear very cool.
http://www.desertofmaine.com/index.html
I don't know much about it, but if you know anything about it could you please comment here?

Here is a youtube video about it.

I also found this one that someone took while there. Thank you, Trisha White

Spring Fest Saturday May 10th

Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:49:00 -0500

Spring Fest Saturday, May 10th at Field's Pond Audubon Center
Come to the nature center for an all ages, all day, free event celebrating International Migratory Bird Day.

7 - 8:30am Birding By Ear Walk with Bruce Barker

7 - 8:30am Bird Walk with Medea Steinman

9 - 10:00am Yoga with John Yasenchak (bring mat if you have one)

9 - 10:00am Children's Walk (parents can enjoy yoga or Birding by Ear)

9 - 11:00am Birding By Ear Walk with Steve Coleman (open to the visually impaired community & anyone interested in learning bird songs)

10 - 1:00pm NATIVE & ORGANIC PLANT SALE BY REBEL HILL FARM

10 - 4:00pm Children's Activity Area

10:30 - 11:30am Walk and Talk with Merle Hetley: Native Plants

10:30 - 11:30pm Children's Nature Exploration with Ruth Perry (parents enjoy plants walk)

11:30 - Noon Lunch Break: sandwiches, chips, cookies & juice will be for sale

Noon - 1:00pm Live Turtles with Jean Adamson

1:30 - 2:30pm Pollinators Presentation with Pat Synder: Bees, Butterflies, and Hummingbirds

3:00 - 4:00pm Music Together with Surya Mitchell (children with their parents)

4:00 - 5:00pm Hands-on Photography Workshop with Joni Dunn

4:00 - 5:00pm Children's Walk (parents can enjoy photography with Joni Dunn)

5:00 - 6:30pm Evening Bird Walk with Judy Kellogg Markowsky

Children's Activities:

9 - 10:00am Children's Walk

10 - 4:00pm Children's Activity Area

10:30 - 11:30pm Children's Nature Exploration with Ruth Perry

Noon - 1:00pm Live Turtles with Jean Adamson

1:30 - 2:30am Pollinators Presentation with Pat Synder: Bees, Butterflies, and Hummingbirds

3 - 4:00pm Music Together with Surya Mitchell (children with their parents)

4:00 - 5:00pm Children's Walk

Directions to Fields Pond in Holden: At Exit 5 from I-395, go right on Parkway South for 0.3 mile. Go right on Dirigo Drive 0.5 mile. Go right on Green Point Road 0.8 mile. Go left on Wiswell Road 1.5 miles. At Fields Pond Road, go right 1 mile. Audubon Center is on left #216.

To contact Fields Pond email htwining@maineaudubon.org or call 989-2591.

	Begin organized and stay organized. Keep a file for every subject area, for every child. You will find that just having a folder into which your children can place their work will save you hours of running around at the end of the year. Date all completed worksheets and place them in the appropriate file immediately. For books (like math consumables), you can date the appropriate worksheet and leave it in the book, tearing out examples when you put your portfolio together.
	Document everything you can. It's a great deal easier to document field trips, books read, and schedules as you are accomplishing them, then to try to reconstruct the year after it's complete. You can do this on the computer, or simply keep a notebook into which you write all relevant events as they happen.
	Write a weekly log. Writing daily lesson plans in advance can be helpful, but for most of us, schedules can change as the week goes by. Doctor's appointments, unforeseen events, needing extra time to complete an assignment or simply moving ahead more quickly can all lead to those lessons changing on a daily basis. If you keep a weekly log for what did take place in your homeschool, you will be able to provide an accurate, written account of what was covered and any special classes your children were able to take.
	Take lots of pictures! Not only do photos provide a visual aid in helping to envision your homeschool program, they also afford you the chance to record events as they happen. Pictures don't have to record only the "big" events. Doing a science experiment, curling up reading a book, playing a math game or reading a map are all day-to-day events that you will want to remember in pictures. There are many ways to document these pictures, the most popular of which is the hobby of scrapbooking. Scrapbooking materials and supplies are available from private consultants and in hobby stores. You can decorate pages with journaling, explaining what's happening in each photo, and enhance them with your own creative flair.
	Take photos of items too large to fit into the scrapbook. For example, if your child has created a number of wonderful art projects or science experiments, make sure you not only photograph your child working on them, but take ones of the finished project, as well. So many of these special "treasures" are fragile and photographing them will preserve them forever. For prolific artists, you can also assemble an art "show" monthly and photograph the group of projects altogether.
	When in doubt, keep it! It's a good idea to keep all sketches, diagrams, spelling tests, maps, current event projects, reports, handwriting samples, book reports, creative writing examples, math worksheets & tests, foreign language samples, ticket stubs to special events (such as museum trips, theater events, etc.) and map & timeline projects. You can always weed out later ! But by saving them in an organized, methodical way, you will be able to pick and choose which samples you can best include.
	Give yourself plenty of time to sort and compile your portfolio. Don't wait until the last minute ! I like to give myself some time every day for a few weeks to really create the picture of each of my children I wish to convey. Rushing will only stress you out and make you want to hurry through the process. Take the time to create organized groups for every required category and then pick the 'best' reflections for every quarter for every subject. Using a three-ring binder, I use standard section separators and create different sections for required forms given by the evaluators, book logs, field trip logs, weekly logs, calendar (attendance chart), writing samples (creative writing, as well as reports), handwriting samples, math samples (worksheets & tests), spelling (worksheets & tests), science logs, foreign language samples and photos.
	Neatness does count! To provide the clearest record, I take my scrapbook pages and take them to the local copy center and have them color copied. I also find that this presents a tidier, less bulky 'feel' to the pages in our portfolio. Additionally, this keeps our cherished family photos in the family album. Copy centers will reduce and/or resize your scrapbook pages if they don't fit onto a standard 8" x 11". I also have color copies made of my children's writing samples so I don't have to tear out samples from their "final copy" books & journals. Copy centers will do this for you for a nominal fee but some copy centers will allow you to make the copies yourself. Standard Xerox does work but doesn't look as crisp or presentable. Scanning on a high quality scanner on your own home computer might be another viable option, but may not offer you the same resize opportunities as a copy center's professional touch.
	Don't forget the basics. Make sure your child's name, address, phone number, age, grade and other relevant information is right on the front of your portfolio. It makes it far easier for evaluators to pertinent information first thing. Additionally, it helps evaluators to know if you use a specific method in your homeschool. For example, if you employ the Charlotte Mason, unit study or Classical methods, it helps your evaluators to have that information right away so that they can best read your portfolio with that in mind.
	Have fun! Remember to look at this as your opportunity to share your year with your child's evaluators. Express your passion for homeschooling and your child's special gifts on every page. The love that you convey for your child will clearly show on the pages of your portfolio!

Homeschool Nations - Maine - Homeschool Blogger

Home Update

HOME Used Curriculum Sale

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*SIMPLE MACHINES & INVENTIONS*

Buzz about Bees

TOS Black Friday sale!

Great page for Field Trips

Forces of Flight

Cole Transportation Museum

HOME UPDATE

Common mistakes made by new homeschoolers

Drawing Camp Wintergreen Art Center

Drawing Camp

HEART (Home Educators of Aroostook Reaching Tomorrow) Aroostook County Group

St. Albans Summerfest 2008

Getting Started Homeschooling Workshops

Subways Every Sandwich Tells a Story contest now open to homeschoolers.

Homeschoolers of Maine upcoming Events.

Portfolio Reveiws

Creating a Meaningful Portfolio

Natural History Series at the Pine Tree State Arboretum

Desert of Maine

Spring Fest Saturday May 10th

SIMPLE MACHINES & INVENTIONS

Creating a
Meaningful Portfolio