Does the quality of your marriage matter? Do the endless days of child rearing and homeschooling matter? Does your family have a larger purpose in this world? God says, "Yes!" Will you live for His plan and purpose?

Heather Haupt is joined by her mother, Colene Lewis for this 2-generation workshop.

One of the perks of homeschooling is the opportunity families have to build relationships. Learning to live and learn together 24-7 provides a wonderful environment where relationships are cultivated. It isn't always easy, but the benefits are well worth the effort!

Parenting. It’s exhausting and exhilarating. Frustrating and fascinating. Like all things that are God-breathed, it’s a Kingdom building exercise. It’s a masterful strategy, this idea of using all night feedings and miscarriage and labor and teenagers (see how teens and labor go hand in hand?) and even homeschooling to teach us to trust the heart of the Father. But that’s exactly what God wants you to learn to do. Join Heidi St. John for an hour of encouragement and inspiration that will lift you up and remind you of the WHY of homeschooling.

Come discover how we can reach the heart of our boys and inspire them to embrace this training phase of their lives as they pursue living a life of purpose that, like the knights of old, courageously puts the needs of others before their own. What is holding modern day boys back and how can we move forward by giving boys a vision for their future and honoring their innate love for adventure? The world needs more kind, courageous, and bold men who will lead their families well and make an impact in their world both now and for the rest of their lives. It starts with igniting the imagination, honoring their love for adventure, and casting a vision for the training process.

Question: What is the end goal of Christian home education? Answer: To love God more and serve more. Parents, your elementary-aged child needs an education in dreaming big. “But wait!” the parent says, “He can’t even complete his regular assignments!” Dreaming big can turn your ho-hum learner into an active one. We all need purpose behind even the simplest of tasks. We, as home educating families can get buried in a pile of book learning and forget what education is really for, to serve others. Please bring your wiggly child with you to this inspiring talk that just might change your city, state, country, or even the world. Disclaimer: There may be no stopping your child!

Almost everything you need to know to homeschool, from educational philosophy to practical homeschool how-to’s, can be found in Calvin & Hobbes. Come laugh, learn, be encouraged as a veteran homeschooler presents wisdom gleaned from the stories of a young boy and his stuffed tiger.

Are you a homeschooling dad like I am? Do you need an occasional booster shot like I do? Come let us reason together, encourage one another, bear each other’s burdens, and leave refreshed to carry out our vital role.

We are faced with daily challenges, Biblical standards are being compromised, our culture adheres to having no absolute truths, and spiritually, we are at war between good and evil. This workshop sheds light on seven key principles for living daily with passion, purpose, and victory and teach our children to do the same!

Freedom isn’t free! Hear the stories and rejoice in God’s grace as one of Oregon’s home education pioneers hits the high points starting with a significant Supreme Court ruling in Pierce v. Society of Sisters, and moving through the last 35 years of more recent challenges and victories.

Learn from the past and be reminded of the stone memorials erected along the way (Joshua 4:6) In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them... Join us to hear the stories of men and women that God used like Pastor Dennis Tuuri, Representative Charles Star, lobbyist Rodger Williams, hearings Officer “Les” and congressional aid Lisa Bart. Remember the days of old, Consider the years of all generations. Ask your father, and he will inform you, Your elders, and they will tell you. (NAS Deuteronomy 32:7)

PRESENTED BY Parent's Education Association

What should we teach our children about the relationship of Christ and Culture? There are few topics as important in schooling as the telos, the goal, of all that we do. This workshop is aimed to help us become more self-conscious about the goal of our schooling, which may change what and how we teach. The workshop will also present some initial material on developing specific lesson plans about Christ, Culture and Vocation.

Homeschooling is a grand adventure, but sometimes there are moments or even seasons where we just feel stuck. Or maybe we’ve veered off course. It’s easy to think that changing curriculum for the umpteenth time, making a new schedule, or even throwing in the towel will solve the problem. It usually never does because the problem runs deeper… But there is hope, glorious hope, for us. Let’s rediscover together the secret to enjoying this journey and finishing strong!

Why do you homeschool? When your children are grown, what will define success for you? What is a Biblical philosophy of education? This workshop will help you to focus on what is really important. Israel will share with you what has helped his family avoid burnout and frustration in the many years of homeschooling.

When you are trying to inspire and motivate children, there are two forces that are often exerted: Positive and Negative Reinforcement. In this session, Israel explains the importance of affirmation as a way to inspire and motivate your reluctant child. Drawing from practical and Biblical examples, this session will help you to keep those important relational connections as you are attempting to impart knowledge.

“I Quit,” you’ve decided. You can’t quite discern whether God wants you to homeschool or not. Maybe you’re burned out, fed up, feeling inadequate, or just plain tired of it all. But, whatever the reason for quitting, deep in your heart, you’re still wondering, “Maybe I should stick with it.” In this workshop Susan Kemmerer, a homeschool mom of 25+ years, looks at numerous reasons why moms quit homeschooling, as well as some solutions to those things that rob you of your joy and motivation to homeschool. If you’re looking for reasons to continue when you’ve got nothing left to give, then this workshop is for you.

Doesn’t it seem that there’s only one legitimate path to success nowadays? Graduate from high school, go to college, and graduate with a degree you’ll most likely never use, accumulating a mountain of debt in the process. But, Moms, you homeschool BECAUSE you think outside the box. there are SO MANY options available to you! You’re already providing a unique education for your uniquely-crafted child. Don’t stop now! Your child can be wildly successful with OR WITHOUT college. Susan, whose six adult sons all followed non-traditional career paths and are wildly successful, will offer help, brainstorm ideas, and show you that homeschooling outside the box toward the future is an exciting endeavor. Have faith; be courageous!

Sarah and Grace Mally, two homeschool graduates, together with their father, will discuss the importance of being a Christ-centered family in an ungodly world. How can parents pass on a Biblical foundation? How can young people be prepared, not just for college or a career, but for the mighty works the Lord has called them to do? How can they avoid rebellion and shipwreck? How can they find purpose and gain zeal? When a family has an eternal mindset and takes initiative in ministry, the young people are given motivation and vision, the family learns to overcome struggles and work in harmony, and mighty works are accomplished for God’s kingdom. This workshop will give practical ideas, direction and encouragement to help children and young people become mighty warriors for Christ.

When Dad teaches, that’s the “ultimate education!” Children respond most to what they learn from Dad. He is the most influential authority in their life. He is the pacesetter, protector, and provider of the family. What is the most important thing for a Dad to teach? How can a busy Dad find the time? This session will encourage fathers by giving them added vision and useful tools. It will address the essentials that fathers need to teach and will provide practical help, encouragement, and ideas. This session, taught by Harold Mally, is for fathers only.

Unless you live in a mansion, we all know the challenges (with having scads of homeschooling resources, library books, and science or art projects in our home) of keeping our physical home in order…but is the answer a larger home, or is it managing the space that we already have? A humorous session aimed at helping the most disorganized person learn how to de clutter one’s home and take back control of one’s life, possessions, and time. A recovering ‘Messie’ will reveal her 10 secrets to setting limits, getting rid of unneeded treasures, and learning to appreciate relationships over things.

How do we get a witnessing conversation started? What if someone asks a question we can’t answer? What if we feel scared? How can we articulate the truth of the gospel with boldness, confidence, clarity and accuracy? In this session, Sarah and Grace Mally, together with their father Harold, share practical tips, ideas, and stories about how to effectively communicate the gospel to those around us. We only have one life to live, and it goes by quickly! Today’s Christian home school youth are in a position like Esther. God has raised them up “for such a time as this.” We need to work together and encourage each other. The question is, “Will our generation speak?”

Music, composer study, artist study, handcrafts, folk songs, hymns, foreign language, free reading, and poetry. Do these sound like the always-just-out-of-reach, icing-on-the-cake courses? Do you feel you have too much else to do, and you just can’t fit in all these “fun studies”? Are these just special treats reserved for the super-organized mom sitting next to you at home school group? Well, Sue Pruett would like to encourage you that you CAN do these, and give your children the excellent education you desire for them! These subjects are just as vital as history, math, and science to your curriculum! Come, learn how you can have that icing on the cake – and give it to your children, as well – even first thing in the morning!

It’s a basic fact of human nature — we tend to be blind to our own mistakes. (Otherwise, we wouldn’t make the same ones over and over again!) These tips on self-editing show you how to step out of your skin — to be “objective” in the truest sense of the word — and smooth out the rough spots in your manuscript.

How do you prepare your child for leadership in the civic realm? What does it mean to be a Christian statesman? Come and hear this introduction and overview of the American system of government, including our founding documents and a synopsis of how our government works on both a state and federal level, from this homeschool graduate who ran for office.

Christians are called to take captive every thought, to make it obedient to Christ (2 Cor. 10:5). Unfortunately, many believers tend to compartmentalize their lives. We separate the “sacred” from the secular, but the Christian life was never meant to be separated into two factions. We have areas of our lives where we think the church should have influence and other areas where we have either been taught, or have come to believe somehow need to be left alone as purely secular. This “compartmentalization” is completely anathema to Biblical Christianity. You and I were meant to bring the truths of the scripture to bear on the culture all around us.

In light of the fact that 66% of college students change their majors more than once and on the day of graduation 40% of college graduates wish they had a different major, it’s important to start early and take this decision seriously. Individuals often make decisions without much thought and with limited information. When it comes to choosing a college, major, or career there are many options and things to consider. With universities spending a lot of money to recruit students, there are five essential questions that need to be asked, and there are five activities that your children can start doing today and throughout their education that will pay big dividends after graduation, helping them to progress into adulthood.

Although the scriptures do not specify exactly how a government must be formed, the principles of civil government are woven throughout the scriptures. Human government was instituted by God to protect man’s unalienable rights from mankind’s sinful tendencies [Romans 13] and a proper look at the other God ordained institutions reveals the need for government to be limited in scope. This session forms the basis for understanding the biblical worldview of government in order to make the connection to the biblical foundations for our US Constitution and American government. The session will also include a synopsis of the historical background of the Constitution and the influence of the biblical worldview upon the framers.

We live in a culture growing increasingly hostile to Christianity. But God can use our words to affect minds and hearts. Come learn about the power of apologetics and worldview in the life of your family and how to raise confident, courageous communicators for Christ.

We believe in the glorious gospel of Jesus Christ. So why do so many of our homeschools not reflect that gospel? Why having started in the Spirit, are we now homeschooling in the flesh? Come be reminded of the gospel truths we forget. You will leave encouraged!

Isn’t the reason we homeschool to disciple our children? Unfortunately, we can become so busy educating them that we forget to disciple them. In our time together, we will think about: why young people walk away from the faith, why they stay, and what we as parents should focus on. Come learn how to keep the main thing the main thing.

Picasso claimed, “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.” Does your homeschool dust need to be washed away with some invigorating art ideas? Come and glean from Linda Crosby’s 30+ years of art education. Knowing that art captures the visual learner, entertains the kinesthetic learner, and awakens language learning skills, Linda determined to use art in every area of their homeschool to meet the varied needs of her children. Through her humor and life experiences, she will inspire you to branch out and experiment with art history, techniques, supplies, and ideas.

Family Devotions can become the Holy Grail of Christian family life. Have family devotions consistently and you are a “good example.” Admit that you fail… and well let’s just say you are a second class Christian family. While family devotions is not the magic bullet of discipleship, there is something beautiful about Dad, Mom, and children opening the Word of God together. In our time together, you will learn what to aim for in family devotions, the rewards, and strategies for conducting “No Tears Family Devotions.”

How is your homeschool year going? Are you feeling overwhelmed right now, lacking strength and faith to continue? Perhaps you are just fed up with the constant battle, tired of being so tired. Would it surprise you to discover that these are normal thoughts and feelings for many (or even most) homeschool moms? There are answers – though you won’t find your answers in that new curriculum or in that clever chore chart. God has a much greater plan in store for you. Whether you’ve experienced a season of blessing as you homeschooled or you feel mired in self-doubt, this workshop will encourage your soul.

Faster than a speeding toddler. More perceptive than a loco teenager. Able to fold tall towers of laundry in a single hour. It’s a maid. It’s a teacher. It’s Supermom! Unfortunately, Supermom I am not. There are just not enough hours in my day or energy in this old body. So, how do we homeschool moms do it all? How is everyone else so successful when I’m such a failure? Is it possible to succeed in keeping up with the housework and the homeschool? Or do I just hope nobody phones in a tip to the Environmental Protection Agency that my home is a hazardous waste site? A homeschool mother of nine shares with you the tools she uses to cope with the pressures of doing it all.

One of the most important aspects of homeschooling is to prepare our children well for what comes next. Some of the topics covered in this session are how to determine direction and interests, exploring and preparing for college majors or vocations, conducting a college or career search, and preparing spiritually for life after homeshool. High school curriculum, transcripts, tests, college visits and applications will be covered in this session. We will also discuss relevant books and websites that will help you in this vital role.

Science offers an opportunity for your child to explore, wonder, and learn about our awesome God and the order He has placed in our world. Unfortunately, science is also one of those fields of study that many homeschooling parents find extremely intimidating. Dr. Callentine will help you unpack and address your concerns. Whether your student is currently in high school or in the elementary grades, you will be armed and ready.

Standing for faith, family, and freedom requires strength and courage. At a time in our history when this is more important than ever before, homeschooling families are living very strong and courageous lives. The Hebrew word for strong in the Old Testament is a verb meaning decisive action. It also means encouragement. The idea communicated is that we have the courage to act to take on the challenge, which often occurs when we are facing something that seems impossible or has great risk if we fail. In this keynote address, we will look at how God calls us to accomplish the impossible and how homeschooling parents and students have succeeded as leaders in their homes, communities, and our nation. You will be encouraged in your calling as a parent and leader, and we’ll be reminded that as believers we can be a strong and courageous people.

Jessica Hulcy, speaks frankly and transparently about her journey of homeschooling and life with marvelous triumphs and glorious victories and agonizing priority losses that netted damaging consequences. This is a testimony of God’s amazing love and care for each of HIS chosen believers to not lose sight of what The God of the Universe requires of each of us.

The story that must be told about the view from the front lines as God delivered homeschoolers in Idaho from incarceration to their unlikely “Promised Land” of liberty.

Jessica Hulcy gives a stirring rendition of men in history that stayed the course and impacted history. But how could just an average homeschooling mom impact history…. especially a tired mom who is wondering if she should continue in this present calling of homeschooling? Jessica shares numerous personal experiences and stories from her own life where the benefits and rewards of homeschoolers were clearly revealed to her, prompting her to stay her course. Jessica will not only help you see how immensely important your job really is, but she will inspire you to “stay the course!”

Want to better understand the headlines? Need to study modern history at home? Then you should attend “Modern History That Shook the World!” Join Linda Lacour Hobar, author of the award-winning series, The Mystery of History, as she recounts world-shaking events from the 20th century to present time from a biblical worldview. With vivid snapshots of the Cold War, the Formation of Israel, the War in Korea, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Fall of the Berlin Wall, and much more, students and teachers will not only be challenged to understand the past, but be better equipped to interpret today’s news and make stronger leaders for tomorrow. Don’t miss this fast-paced, fact-filled, fifty-five minutes of modern history!

Where did matter come from to create the universe? How did life originate? Join Mike Riddle as he addresses these two power questions and applies critical thinking in finding the answers. In this workshop you’ll be equipped to make logical deductions for reasonable beliefs.

Statistical research shows that approximately two-thirds of young people in America are leaving the church by the time they reach college age—with very few returning. In this keynote session, Ken Ham looks at data published in the book, Already Gone, which shows that a lack of teaching foundational apologetics and biblical worldview in churches and Christian homes is a leading cause for this mass departure. He compares this data with new statistical research published in the book, Ready to Return, showing that the millennial generation is more secularized in their worldview than ever. Millennials who currently attend church are going to be the voice of the Church in the future, and we need to do something before we lose another generation. By taking a strong stand on biblical authority, rooting out compromise, and teaching apologetics, we can reclaim lost and coming generations for Christ.

Homeschooling is more about discipling than academics. We are investing in eternity as we prepare our children to serve God. There is no higher calling. Many times we forget this and other truths, and get distracted from our purpose and goals of homeschooling. Kathie will give 10 key things every homeschooler should remember. You will be encouraged and inspired as she reminds you of these very important thoughts you need to regularly keep before you.

Maybe you are praying about fostering or adopting as you read this title. Adoption is a joyous calling, but can come with plenty of heartache. In this presentation, I share my very honest journey of adoption and it includes plenty of both. You will walk away with some practical ways to help your family on this adoption journey.

A 50-minute crash course in the Constitution, including an explanation of the Constitution versus the 'COURTstitution' and how we can restore our Constitutional Republic.

Find out why Thomas Jefferson wrote at a standing desk, how a whiteboard can turn on a light bulb, and why your son does the things he does. Boys and girls really do learn differently! Make school more fun for everyone and equip your boy with the learning he needs for manhood.

Consider: Prov 4:23 which says," Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life." And Col 2:8 which says,"See to it that no one takes you captive by philosophy and empty deceit, according to human tradition, according to the elemental spirits of the world and not according to Christ. This is being in the world and not of it. (Jn 17:14-18) How do we do this for our children and help them learn, as they grow, to do these things for themselves?

The education of a child should be a work of great beauty, like the building of a magnificent cathedral. Years of planning, though, and hard work are poured into both endeavors. In this workshop, we will explore the ideas of cultivating beauty in our homeschools; in ritual, the five senses, and in ourselves as teachers and parents. Packed with both big ideas, and practical advice, parents will leave energized and inspired for the years ahead.

Genesis 1-11 is foundational to developing a truly Christian worldview. As Ken Ham walks you through the 7 C’s of history, you will see how all the Christian doctrines essential for a truly biblical worldview are founded in the geology, biology, astronomy and anthropology that is recorded in Genesis.

For many men, homeschooling has been looked at largely as something their wife does. Shouldn it be that way? Many believe that if they pay the bills, that is really all that God expects of them. Biblically speaking, what is the proper role for men in the process of home education?

In this world filled with technology and devices, intentional parenting is a MUST. Children get one shot at childhood and it is our job to make it count. In this presentation I will give you practical tips on how to engage and connect with your child. We will take a trip down memory lane that will make you laugh and possibly shed a few tears. Either way, you will be challenged and hopefully changed to take on parenting with a newfound passion.

New clean copy uploaded July 7 - It’s such a temptation to stress over teaching predicate nominatives or the steps of division that we forget to delight in our children and make time to enjoy being with them. In this session, Marilyn shares how she has found this to actually be the key to instilling values that stick and building in them a heart for things of the Lord. Take the time to give your children the security of knowing they have your heart. In so doing you are making it easier for them to freely give their heart back to their Creator, and that is our mission. Catch a vision of how you can reach and hold the heart of your child and build fulfilling family relationships that will be passed on through generations.

The teacher called him “addled.” His mother called him Tommy. The school couldn’t do anything with him. His mother made him a genius. What was the secret behind the success of Thomas Edison, America’s greatest inventor? His mother made learning fun. And you can do the same for your kids!

Edifying and Terrifying--Our world is filled with words. Whether we are reading them, writing them, or instructing with them, they are our tools to build stories, create emotions, and make connections. Yet we need to be aware that words have the power to build or to destroy, especially when we speak them to our children, causing them to stumble or to soar! God has much to say about our words. They need to be crafted carefully and gently but firmly shared. This is how we can engage others and train up our children. Let’s contemplate not only the power of our words, but how we can boldly use them.

Studies show 75% of kids leave the church from 18-29 years old. We may be tempted to ask “What are we doing wrong?” But a better question is “What was happening right in the 25% who stayed?” Learn the 5 factors found in those who stayed connected to Christ after leaving home. This practical and challenging breakout has top-quality hand-outs and a straightforward approach to invest in our children before they leave the quiver. This breakout provides you a doable path I call “The Simple Things”, highlighting very factors found in the lives of those who kept with Christ after leaving home.

A message for the graduates and their families. (abbreviated version)

God gives us all certain skills and abilities that we can use to honor and glorify Him. Not everybody will be great at everything, but most of us can be better at something than we are. And, we can be better at a younger age than most of us believe. Join Jason Lindsay, owner of Young Entrepreneurs of North America, as he explores the amazing things that youth are capable of when following Biblical principles - from starting their own business, to preparing for marriage, and more! People of all ages are welcome and encouraged to attend.

Ken Ham will give examples from his upbringing in helping parents understand the importance of training children from a truly Biblical foundation. What does the Bible say (not your opinion) on how to bring up children; how to train them; how to discipline children; and how to educate them? What should the priorities be in education? Come be inspired and equipped with answers as you lead your family in the truth!

Have you ever had one of those days when it seems your children are constantly misbehaving, yet they really don’t seem to be rebellious? How do we discern the difference between irritating childish behavior and real disobedience? Here’s a sane, practical and proven method (Marilyn has 14 kids!) to turn irritations into solutions!

One of the most important things we can do as homeschooling parents is have set goals and priorities for our home school. It is equally important to have a way to measure how we are doing with those goals — questions we can ask ourselves at the end of the home school day to see if we are keeping those priorities in place and accomplishing the goals that we set out with. Kathie will give you 10 things to ask yourself to see if you are staying on track with your priorities.

How can we be confident that our children are going to be well-educated? This informative and entertaining session with Tom Clark, is based on, and adapted from, the respected work of John Milton Gregory, and will focus on effective strategies of instruction which are understandably simple, educationally sound, and ethically founded.

Homeschooling parents are well aware of the shocking statistics of how many of our kids walk away from the faith and values upon which they were raised. The world around them has embraced moral relativism. If the Biblical values that built western civilization are to be restored, the next generation must be equipped to be counter-culture revolutionaries for truth, justice, and the old American way.

Eighty percent of the children labeled “Learning Disabled” in school are boys. That’s why wise parents understand that the confinement, boredom and regimentation of school are things to be avoided if boys are to thrive. The key to understanding and cooperating with the drives God has built into boys is in recognizing that boyhood is preparation for the roles of family protector, provider and leader that naturally and Biblically fall upon men. We must understand that we are not raising boys, but training future men if we are to make boyhood the exciting and profitable season of life that God intended it to be.

What are we to do when faced with a world telling us it is a certainty that all organisms evolved from primordial ooze? How can our students give an answer when these ideas come up in discussions as they begin to move out from under our teaching and into the world? Amazingly, the more we learn about the creatures on Earth, the more we begin to see the intricacies that do not fit with the idea of evolution, and we are beginning to see clear scientific evidence that points to a Creator. This fast-moving, high-energy workshop will cover several organisms whose features defy evolution. From dolphins and sharks to glow-in-the-dark bacteria, we’ll see how science is discovering that all creatures are far from simple.

No matter how much we avoid it, we’re surrounded by the messages of media, from our computers to songs on the radio. Learn how to teach your children discernment, protect them from being manipulated by the messages around them, and instead to engage their culture for Christ.

Two forces that are often exerted: Positive and Negative Reinforcement. Israel explains the importance of Affirmation as a way to inspire and motivate your reluctant child. Drawing from practical and Biblical examples, this session will help you to keep those important relational connections as you are attempting to impart knowledge.

Academics are important, but they are not the key to a successful life. When your children grow up and leave your home, you want to be sure that they have learned the life lessons that will serve them well for time and eternity. This workshop discusses the issues that matter most in life and how you can pass them on to your children in the brief time you have with them.

God has hard-wired us to learn, and the science behind His masterful plan will strengthen your resolve to help your child blaze new neural pathways. Come and get the inside scoop of how the lightbulb of learning goes on, and more importantly, how you can increase “ah ha” moments on Monday. Join Beth Mora, author, blogger, and former Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse in discovering that the new revelations in science are rooted in God’s words of wisdom. This information is perfect for all types of learners including gifted and those with special needs.

In this session, Dr. Sandi Queen shares how, during her youngest son’s 3 1/2 year battle with cancer, and her own diagnosis two years into her son’s struggle, the Lord allowed her to continue to not only persevere through daily life in a busy household and care for her ailing son, but also write 40 books during this time. No matter what your struggle is – caring for an aging parent, loss of your own health, going through a divorce or other difficult family time, this session discusses practical ways to get through your days, and will be a blessing and a help.

Why should you homeschool? Using facts, research, evidence, and Scripture, Israel will address new and prospective homeschoolers about the benefits of teaching, training, and discipling your children at home. He’ll address subjects such as academics, socialization, character, relationships, and faith/values, arguing that homeschooling is the perfect means to achieving amazing ends in all those areas!  This engaging presentation will be an overview of the many positive points of homeschooling.

What is a heritage and why is it important? Just as Christ made disciples and intentionally trained them to pass His salvation message to future generations, families have this same privilege. As we pass on our vision and passion for sharing the love of Christ with others to our children, future generations will have the possibility of knowing and loving God! We have an incredible and joyous opportunity to build a heritage of faith to last for generations upon generations. Join Carol as she imparts a passion for equipping our children to share the message of Christ into the next generation with a vision for the generations to come. Our children will make their own choices, but we as parents are called to help them build a sturdy foundation to make those choices with God’s will in mind. Learn from practical ideas and examples that will encourage you in your quest to build godly heritage to benefit future generations.

How does Common Core impact home education? This presentation will describe how the Common Core Standards were adopted by the states and provide six reasons to avoid Common Core. Learn to differentiate between exemplary Type #1 education and poor Type #2 Common Core education.

Graduate Recognition Keynote speech

Dr. Ray provides a brief summary of homeschool research to date and explains current projects and trends. He explains that scholarly writing and research are powerful tools used by both friends and foes of parent-led education, that they should be guided by clear goals and theory that are based on sound values, and suggests where they should be headed.

Dr. Ray's major study examines the lives of 7,306 adults from across the United States who were homeschooled. This study and research by others focus on adults' general demographics, attitudes towards their own home-education experience, and success in life. Success is evaluated with respect to civic, social, educational, employment, worldview traits, performance in college, and in occupations. In many ways, they are very "normal." On the other hand, they are remarkably different than the general U.S. population. Generally speaking, the findings of research defuse many of the long-held negative criticisms of those who doubted homeschooling's benefits, whether practiced in the U.S. or in other nations. And the findings will likely be a great encouragement to those parents and advocates of home-based education over the past two decades.

From where does the homeschooling movement come? What are its precursors and motivators? Key-events? Further, what are the movement's-and your-vision for the future? Dr. Ray will give a very quick history of about 6,000 years of education/schooling then slow down for the modern parent-led home-based education movement. Christians need to take history seriously so that they can move ahead with a strong foundation, vision, effectiveness, and grace and avoiding mistakes and slumps with their families and homeschool organizations in the next decade. Many realize that you really do not know where you are going until you understand where you have come from. Come and be challenged by Dr. Ray about both.

Is that word "freedom" for just ol' graying hippies and revolutionary wannabes? No. It is a biblical concept and at the core of what it means to be an American and, especially, a homeschooler. Dr. Ray will answer: How'd we get our homeschool freedoms? Why should you care? Are we really free? How might we lose this liberty? What are the enemies? Risks? Is Common Core related? What about compulsory attendance laws? Parental rights? Whether your youngest child is pre-born, 7, or 18, you need to know the core principles of educational freedom and why we must strive to keep or expand that liberty. Dr. Ray has been in the practical and theoretical battle for over 30 years.

Dads and moms, in all the busyness of life and swell of expert advice, we’ve forgotten the fundamental truths of homeschooling and family. In short, we’ve forgotten why we do what we do. We have plenty of “how tos” but have forgotten the “why tos” and it evidences itself in our lack of joy of homeschooling, family, and parenting.

Good things are hard and hard things are good, and they go hand in hand. Sadly, most people don’t ever experience the good because they can’t handle the hard. They put the hard thing off, hoping it will get easier, or they avoid it all together, and all they end up with is a pile of regrets. Here’s the good news: you can handle the hard. In fact, if you’re faced with two choices, pick ‘HARD.’

Your house is a disaster, your kids seem out of control, and you wonder how you’ll ever make it through another day of school. Your “get up and go” has “gotten up and went”. You used to think homeschooling was the best thing since sliced bread, but now you’re feeling like burnt toast. Take heart – you’re not alone! No one homeschools because it’s easy. You do it because you believe it is best. But there are times when you need to be reminded once again why it’s best.

You may not crack open a book, work through a curriculum, or call it school, but it’s your job to train your children. Join me as we look at the trials, triumphs, and tribulations of training our children. Now don’t worry, I won’t make you feel guilty or give you a forty-six point outline, but I promise to tell it straight and to encourage you in the best job there is – fathering

Our own relationship with God will color and affect our relationship with our spouse and our children. Setting aside time to deepen our walk with God and revel in His grace will bear fruit in how we relate to those who are most important to us.

The handout for this session is available at http://www.oceanetwork.org/2016handouts.pdf

Homeschooling is hard, parenting is hard, and marriage…well, that’s way hard. And that’s OK and even normal. The trouble is we don’t like hard. We want easy, fast, and cheap, and at the same time we want successful results. During this hour, you’ll laugh with Todd as he shares how to embrace the hardness while keeping your eye on the joy and experience God’s best for you.

The second command is to love others as we want to be loved. But the ‘new commandment’ that Jesus calls us to implement is to love others as we have been loved by Him. This is a different perspective that focuses our attention on Jesus Himself and how He has loved us.

The handout for this session is available at http://www.oceanetwork.org/2016handouts.pdf