Northern Adirondack Vocal Ensemble Performance

The Northern Adirondack Vocal Ensemble will give two performances of a Festival of Lessons and Carols. Anthems, carols, and hymns illuminate the Christmas story along with community readers and congregational singing in the beloved tradition of King's College, Cambridge:

-Saturday December 21st at 7:30 p.m. at St. Peter's Church in Plattsburgh

-Sunday, December 22nd  at 4:00 p.m. at St. Agnes Church in Lake Placid
---
NAVE, under the musical direction of Andrew M. Benware, is a mixed chamber choir of professional and amateur singers that perform choral music from a variety of periods and styles with harmonies of four to eight parts.

Community members will read the texts, which include passages from Genesis and the Gospels, as well as a contemporary poem, "Annunciation," by Denise Levertov. The audience is invited to join
with the choir in congregational singing accompanied by University of Notre Dame organist and Potsdam native Benjamin A. Stone. These familiar Advent and Christmas hymns include "Once in Royal David’s City," "Come, O Long Expected Jesus," "O Little Town of Bethlehem," "Silent Night," "While Shepherd's Watched Their Flocks by Night," "As With Gladness Men of Old," and "O Come, All Ye Faithful."

Admission is a suggested donation of $10. For more information please find us on Facebook or contact drew.benware@gmail.com."

CO-OP Children's Chorus--Meadowbrook Nursing Home

WHEN: Wed, 12/18/13, 11:00am
WHERE: Meadowbrook Nursing Home, Prospect St, Plattsburgh

Please meet in the lobby of Meadowbrook around 11 in the morning. Please make sure to be dressed neatly, but dress clothes/shoes are not required unless your child *wants* to dress up, then by all means please do!

We will be singing the following songs, in case you would also like to practice them as a family at home prior to the day:

Thanksgiving Day (this song is by Laurie Berkner if you want to look it up)
Angels We Have Heard on High
Rudolph The Red Nosed Reindeer
Silent Night
Jingle Bells (will have a couple sets of bells for the youngest kids to jingle)
Away in the Manger
We Wish You A Merry Christmas
Joy to the World

18th Annual CHILDREN’S/COMMUNITY PARTY

18th Annual CHILDREN’S/COMMUNITY PARTY

THE JOY OF GIVING

WHY:It is possible to intentionally foster altruism such that young children turn in to giving adults. This party is designed to leverage the research to help make that happen.

WHO: Anyone young and older who wants to share in the “giving” spirit of this holiday season and wants to help increase altruism in children (heck…altruism in all of us!)

WHO ELSE WILL BE THERE?  Elves!Santa is very busy this Sat., and his reindeer are resting of course, so he’s sending some elves who will be arriving in a horse drawn sleigh.

WHAT WILL THE ELVES BE DOING? They will sing and dance with us, share the Warm Fuzzy Tale and the importance of the gift of giving during the holiday season and throughout the year. AND, will even let us experience riding in a horse drawn sleigh with them!  The elves will be arriving just after 2pm!

WHAT TO BRING: Each family brings an unwrapped gift (either $10 & under or a used gift in excellent condition that has been well loved but is just ready to spend some time in a new home). We ask that children bring a gift that has real meaning to them. Either a favorite toy they want to share, or if purchased, one they picked out themselves. One that they can be proud to give!

WHERE/WHEN:Sat. Dec. 14th from 2:00- 5pm at the Paul Smiths College Forestry Cabin (follow the ‘JOY’ signs once on campus.)

WHERE WILL THE GIFTS GO:The helpers will be bringing the gifts to Saranac Lake where they will be distributed to Franklin & Essex Co. residents as part of the Holiday Helpers program. If it’s an old toy, that is a favorite, but no longer “givable” that’s fine! One child gave her pacifier, which had more meaning than a purchased gift would, by far!

 
Sponsored By:

If you would like to help in any way, or have questions call Sheila Delarm or Bob Eckert @ 327-3554

                                                                           

 

Titus Mountain's ski program for youth & adults

Titus Mountain's ski program for youth & adults will be starting back up 1/10/14.  Below please find the announcement from Laura Hipl.  Student & adult registration forms can be gotten from Laura Hipl.  They are due back, with payment, to her by 12/20/13.  All questions can be directed to Laura at the contact info below.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Please make your check out to me because they only want one check. Just so you know, I wont cash the checks until I am ready to send the total amount to Titus. If you send it to me tomorrow it wont get cashed until after the 20th. Please make a note of that for your records.

Again, if you know someone else interested in skiing with us send them my email. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

Laura
293-8253
adkhilpls@charter.net


Pricing Information:
Kids 5-week Youth SKI:
Lift & Lessons - $85
Lessons only (kid already has season pass) - $40
Ski rentals - $50

Kids 5-week Youth SNOWBOARD:
Lift & Lessons - $85
Lessons only (kid already has season pass) - $40
Snowboard rental - $70

Adult 5-week program in conjunction with youth program SKI:
Lift & Lessons - $140
Lessons only (adult already has season pass) - $40
Ski rentals - $125

Adult 5-week program in conjunction with youth program SNOWBOARD:
Life & Lessons - $140
Lessons only (adult already has season pass) - $40
Snowboard rental - $125

Sat CO-OP Planning meeting CANCELLED

With the busy holiday season upon us, and some personal stuff that has come up for Amanda's family this weekend, the co-op planning meeting for tomorrow 12/7/13 is being cancelled.
Many families expressed interest in helping with co-op plans, but most families already had commitments for this weekend.  So everyone who wants to participate has the opportunity, this meeting will be rescheduled to mid/late January.  

Calling all PRESCHOOL co-op parents!

We are organizing the class schedule and are looking for volunteers to lead activities in the preschool room (approx ages 2-5) beginning in January. You are welcome to lead in any subject area that interests you (share a favorite book, craft, activity, science project, etc!). I am happy to help/provide supporting activities/etc where needed. If you have a preschool aged child (or even if you don't) please consider leading a class. We would love to have everyone involved! Happy to consider older children that might be interested in leading an activity too.

If you are interested in helping out, please email me at bergs76@gmail.com



Homeschool Service Project

During the month of January, the Zurlo family will be collecting used greeting cards that would otherwise be destined for the recycle bin or trash.

We will have a collection box available at co-op and all you need to do is drop your cards into the box. No need to separate your cards. We will do it for you if you want!

You can also give your cards to the Zurlo's anytime in January (it doesnt have to be co-op).

Cards don't have to be Christmas cards! 

The Zurlo family will then box them up and send them off to https://stjudesranch.org/about-us/recycled-card-program/



  Any questions please email Kari at pyrz51@frontier.com   Thanks!

Daytime Homeschool Support Group

Daytime Homeschool Support Group
The daytime homeschool support group will meet this week at co-op (Cadyville Wesleyan Church) , downstairs from roughly 1-3pm (Wedensday December 4).  Even if you do not attend co-op, please feel free to come to the support group!  

We will dedicate the first 30 min to answering "logistical" questions about paperwork, testing requirements, etc & the remaining time discussing a more specific homeschooling topic (ie: scheduling, outside activities, online resources, exploring various curriculums, etc). Our theme for this class will be homeschooling through the holidays. :-)

PLEASE BRING YOUR PAPERWORK! If you have questions about your paperwork, or paperwork you've received from your local school districts, please bring it to the meeting so we can help you better! Support group will dedicate the first 30 min to answering "logistical" questions. Those questions are much easier to answer if you have your paperwork & correspondence! 

Coodinator: Kari Zurlo
Fee: Free
RSVP: Kari, pyrz51@frontier.com

Dec Homeschool Co-op

December 4, 2013 -- Final class at the Wesleyan Church before Holiday Break
**** Classes will resume Wed, January 15, 2014.  Have a Merry Christmas & Happy New Year! ****

Free Play Room: Legos

Community Service Project: Making Christmas cards for James Gregory, who is currently serving in Afghanistan.  James is in the reserves and was the only member of his unit called up for duty.  Additionally, he lost his mother in an accident this past year, and is in need of some cheering up!  We will be making Christmas cards for him thanking him for his service.  

11:00 - 12:00:
Christmas crafts & Cookie Decorating

Come join us for a day of mixed-age activities, making Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, and making cards for a local soldier who is serving overseas this Christmas season.   We are still in need of 2-3 families to provide a simple craft project for approximately 30 kids.  

If you would like to bring a craft to share please RSVP Holly at hollyjwarren@gmail.com .



12:00 - 1:00: 
Potluck Lunch  --  Come join us for a community lunch to finish out the fall semester!  If you would like to bring a dish please contact Holly and let her know what your family would like to bring.  *** Please note: Dishes should be nut free, due to several members who have peanut allergies/sensitivities ***

12:45 - 1:00:
Children's Chorus 
--  Final practice before going to the nursing home!   This club is open to all students, and all ages.  As long as they can sing along &  stand in place without being disruptive your student is welcome to join chorus.  This fall we will focus on learning a variety of seasonal songs to be sung at a local nursing home at a time to be determined in mid December (will hopefully have a finalized date/time at class on Wednesday!)

Teacher: Holly Warren Fee: Free RSVP: Holly, hollyjwarren@gmail.com


1:00 - 3:00:
Board Game Club --  This club has two sections. One is for boys & girls from K-3, the other is for boys & girls grades 4+.   Games will be set up in separate classrooms.  Please bring your favorite game to share, and make sure to label your box too!   Any questions can be directed to Amanda Bokus.

Daytime Homeschool Support Group -- The daytime homeschool support group will meet downstairs from roughly 1-3pm.
Coodinator: Kari Zurlo
Fee: Free
RSVP: Kari, pyrz51@frontier.com


1:30 - 3:00:
French Classes\


This will be the final French class until co-op resumes on Wed, January 15.

French classes will continue for the winter/spring semester, taught by Carole Dubois. It is not to late to sign-up, so please email Carole or come to co-op this week if you are interested. There will be two classes offered. One from 1:30- 2:15 for younger kids (ages 5-8), and one from 2:15-3:00 for older kids (ages 9+). All classes will be offered at the beginner level, but as each class has about 10 students currently enrolled, two classes will allow Carole to offer more advanced projects for the older kids and keep a good student/teacher ratio.

The rate is $10 per lessons. She is willing to do a multiple child rate of 50% for second child. (If there's more in your family you can discuss with her.)

You can also contact her directly with other questions at her email: Duboiscarole8@aol.com

1:30 - 2:15 - French Class -- ages 5-8

2:15 - 3:00 - French Class -- ages 9+


Workshop for Families with Autism Spectrum Disorders

Plattsburgh State will be hosting a free instructional 2 -part workshop for families of a child with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Parents, grandparents, caretakers, professionals are all invited. The capacity is 25 registrants ( they will be accepted in the order they reply.) The workshop will be repeated 2-3 times per year for the next few years. ( They have received a grant through OPWDD family Support Services.)

A component of the training is the follow-up home visit with recommendations. The visit is  not required, but available to registrants who 1) express interest; 2) have a child with OPWDD eligibility.

When: December 4  & 11 
Time: 6-8 P.M.
Where: SUNY Plattsburgh   Hawkins 135   Cornelia Street.

* Must register by December 2, 2013.  To register send email to amart001@plattsburgh.edu with attendee names and a phone number.  Questions? Call @ 518-564-3374.

Living History Opportunity- UNDERGROUND RAILROAD EXPERIENCE

UPCOMING LIVING HISTORY EVENT
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD EXPERIENCE
Saturday, November 23rd
starts promptly at 6:00 pm, ends at approximately 9:00pm 
Cost: $5 per person. Ages 10+ welcome.

Share in one of our most popular living history courses! This is a hands-on activity where YOU become part of the story. Experience what it was like to be a slave on the run in New York, trying to make it to freedom in Canada before being captured by bounty hunters. A brief introduction at the Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center will present the issue of slavery and the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850. Next, you'll be shuttled to the 1812 Homestead and the adventure begins! Make your way through the Homestead from one safe-house to another as you try to escape bounty hunters and meet famous abolitionists along your way to freedom.

Afterward, a guided informal discussion and presentation on local Underground Railroad history will take place at the Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center, followed by a campfire, hot cocoa, and s'mores under the stars!

This year's Underground Railroad Experience is presented in part by the North Country Underground Railroad Historical Association and is being hosted at the 1812 Homestead in Willsboro, New York.

Please meet at 6pm for the beginning of the program at the Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center (1391 Reber Road, Willsboro, NY, 12996)(shuttles will be provided to the 1812 Homestead). RAIN OR SHINE (or snow)!

For more information please contact:
Brian DeGroat, Director
Pok-O-MacCready Outdoor Education Center
1391 Reber Road, Willsboro, NY 12996
www.pmoec.org
(ph) 518.963.7967
(fx) 518.963.4165
director@pmoec.org

Dewy Mountain Ski and Snowshoe Swap

Attached is a notice for a ski /snowshoe swap and sale going on this weekend at Dewey Mtn.    http://www.deweymountain.com/

Cross Country Ski-Club

Lake Placid Ski Club – 

Contact Pat Gallagher email: pmggallag@verizon.net  web site:  lakeplacidskiclub.com

Yearly cost: $45 Family club membership & a $10/per child Program fee

This is an enriching low keyed group learning experience for all kids that want to learn how to XC ski.  Saturday at 10am  at Mt. VanHoevenberg and Thursday afternoons at 3:30pm at Whiteface Club, kids and parents can ski and learn.  There is no cost to parents if they ski with their children.  Families with little ones starting at 5 y/o that need closer instruction also qualify to have their children in the Pathfinders XC ski classes taking place at the same time at Mt. VanHoevenberg.  High Peaks Cyclery & Ski has a special equipment free rental offer to club members and discount on purchases.  Offer good until 12/22/13.


This is a great group of folks that are great at inspiring your kids to get outside and have fun in the winter.

CO-OP

Regular classes at the Cadyville Wesleyan Church on Rt 3.

Free Play Room: Lincoln Logs, car mat, cars


Community Service Projects:
#1 -- Final collection for the local food banks. Drop box will be near the sign-in table. Please bring a generous donation as we'll be dropping our food right before Thanksgiving time when need is very high!
#2 -- Making Thanksgiving cards for nursing home residents & shut ins. A table will be set up for making nursing home cards as students have time throughout the day. Please place completed cards in the box on the table.
#3 -- Operation Christmas Child Shoe Box collection & assembly. Tables will be set up in the common room downstairs for families to drop completed Operation Shoe Boxes and also to work on assembling their box. Shipping labels will be available for families who choose to pack their box here. Cost is $7 per box. Families who do not want to pack a box can also donate $7 to cover the cost of shipping a box.


11:00 - 12:00:
Preschool:
Thanksgiving
Teacher: Lynn Bushey
Fee: $1 per child
RSVP: Lynn, busheylm@aol.com

Elementary kids #1 --
Winter Birds In The North Country & Make a Bird Feeder Project
** Please note that this will be a peanut free class for the bird feeder project! **
Teacher: Kerri Lamarche
Fee: $2, and please bring a toilet paper roll
RSVP: Kerri, turtle4u234@yahoo.com

Older kids (Grades 4-8) --
Mental Math & Math Tricks
Teacher: Tammy Neureuther
Fee: $1 per child
RSVP: Tammy, tamneureuther@yahoo.com

12:00:  Break for bag lunch/recess

12:30 - 12:45:
Children's Chorus -- This club is open to all students, and all ages. As long as they can sing along & stand in place without being disruptive your student is welcome to join chorus. This fall we will focus on learning a variety of seasonal songs to be sung at a local nursing home at a time to be determined in mid December. This class will run from 12:30 - 12:45.
Teacher: Holly Warren
Fee: Free
RSVP: Holly, hollyjwarren@gmail.com

12:45 - 1:30:
American Girl Club -- This club is for kids in 2nd - 6th grade. The students should have read "Meet Felicity" (1774) before coming to class. They will do a variety of crafts & activities from Felicity's time period, including making a tin punch ornament, a bookmark, and a lapbook component for their AG class folder. Bring a small hammer & some round metal juice lids (from frozen juice concentrate) if possible.
Teachers: Holly Warren & Amanda
Fee: $2 per student
RSVP: Holly or Amanda (see emails above)

12:45 - 3:00:
Board Game Club -- This club has two sections. One is for boys & girls from K-3, the other is for boys & girls grades 4+. Games will be set up in separate classrooms. Please bring your favorite game to share, and make sure to label your box too! Any questions can be directed to Amanda Bokus.


1:30 - 3:00:
French Classes

French classes will continue, taught by Carole Dubois. It is not to late to sign-up, so please email Carole or come to co-op this week if you are interested. There will be two classes offered. One from 1:30- 2:15 for younger kids (ages 5-8), and one from 2:15-3:00 for older kids (ages 9+). All classes will be offered at the beginner level, but as each class has about 10 students currently enrolled, two classes will allow Carole to offer more advanced projects for the older kids and keep a good student/teacher ratio.

There are currently 3 classes being offered in the reminder of the fall semester. 11/20 & 12/4. Classes will resume when co-op restarts on Wed 1/15/14.

The rate is $10 per lessons. She is willing to do a multiple child rate of 50% for second child. (If there's more in your family you can discuss with her.)

If you're interested, you can sign-up at co-op and pay for the remaining three French classes for this year.

You can also contact her directly with other questions at her email: Duboiscarole8@aol.com

1:30 - 2:15 - French Class -- ages 5-8 

2:15 - 3:00 - French Class -- ages 9+

Balsam Traditions at the Adirondack Museum

You are invited to . . .

Balsam Traditions at the Adirondack Museum
Homeschool Day – Saturday, December 7, 2013

The balsam fir tree was an important natural resource for the Adirondack region and continues to play a role in our lives. Our annual Balsam Traditions program teaches students how balsam was used and its economic importance to the region.
•     The program runs two hours, plus lunch time.
•     The program is offered FREE to Adirondack Park homeschools.
•     Support materials are provided.
Balsam Traditions is a fun-filled learning activity for children in grades K – 3, with opportunities to:
. . . experience a traditional Adirondack balsam bee
 . . . identify coniferous trees
. . . make balsam pillows to take home, using a treadle sewing machine
 . . . construct a balsam be in an Adirondack lean-to
 . . . and more!   

To make your reservations, contact School Programs Manager
Christine Campeau at (518) 352-7311, ext. 116, or ccampeau@adkmuseum.org.

Homeschool Swim

The Comfort Inn has agreed to host the homeschool swim time again this year!

Swim will start 11/13/13, run from 12:30-2:30pm, and the cost is $3 per child swimming.  Adults (swimming or not) and non-swimming children are free.


This is a drop-in event, you do not have to arrive right at 12:30 or stay until 2:30.  Come when you can, leave when you want!   Small lockers, a restroom, and changing rooms are available in the swimming area for our use.


The Comfort Inn pool has a kiddie end with a play area, and an end for older kids with water slides. The kiddie toys & water slides will run the first hour of the swim time, then be turned off so that the older kids can have full use of the deep end of the pool for swimming.

Please contact Lisa Bergmann at ljddragon@juno.com with any questions.

New York State Summer School of the Arts

New York State Summer School of the Arts
A program of the New York State Education Department
Dear Parent,
NYSSSA is excited to announce NYSSSA 2014. A program of the NYS Education Department, NYSSSA offers intensive, pre-professional summer training programs that are exciting, challenging and fun. This program is open to all NYS students currently in grade 8-12. Advanced applicants currently in grades 6 and 7 may audition for the School of Ballet only.

Celebrating its 45th Anniversary this summer, NYSSSA is comprised of 7 Schools (Ballet, Dance, Theatre, Orchestral Studies, Choral Studies, Media Arts and Visual Arts). Each school is a 4 week residential program where students have the chance to work with internationally acclaimed artists, professors and artistic companies including members of the New York City Ballet and the nPhiladelphia Orchestra. All of our teaching artists have a strong desire to work with youth to help them achieve their highest potential. Students engage in world-class training, education and inspiration that could change their lives forever. A strong sense of community and support is developed between faculty, staff and other students from across the State. We encourage you to visit our website at www.oce.nysed.gov/nysssa for more details about our program. Our schools are cosponsored by NYS School Music Association (NYSSMA), NYS Art Teachers Association (NYSATA), NYS Media Art Teachers Association (NYSMATA) and the\ Saratoga Performing Arts Center.

Admission to NYSSSA is through an audition or portfolio review process. All students are encouraged to apply- it is free and is a great opportunity to connect with our amazing artists! Audition and portfolio review details for each school are available on our website and begin in January 2014.

Tuition for the 4 week program is $2100 and includes room, board, classes, performances and most activities. Tuition assistance is available for students demonstrating economic need.
Students reside on one of our beautiful host campuses including Skidmore College, SUNY Fredonia, SUNY Delhi and SUNY Oswego. A full residential life program is provided in addition to the artistic program. A full time residential life counseling staff lives with the students and ensures the health, safety and well being of each student. Our counselors are educators, artists and advance degree candidates in each program’s designated art. This provides the student with a nurturing and supportive environment, as well as an immersion in their art that is unique to NYSSSA.

Please reach out to the NYSSSA Office with any questions you may have about the program.

For more information and our audition application, visit our website at:
Call us at 518-474-8773 or email atnysssa@mail.nysed.gov.

Jr Docent Program- First Mondays of the Month

The JR Docent/History Detectives Program will be held the first Monday of each month. This program is open to any age. For the current time, the program will be held at the Clinton County Historical Society.

The Clinton County Historical Society is working on a grant to record the history of the Air Force Base. The JR Docent/History Detectives program will be assisting with recording the history of some of the historic buildings on the base.

The program will meet Monday November 4 and Monday December 2 at the Clinton County Historical Society from 2:30-3:30pm.


Homeschooling Ballet Class at the North Country Cultural Arts Center

Local homeschooling mom, and former professional ballerina, Victoria Ainsworth offers classical ballet classes.  The classes are on Tuesdays, at the North Country Cultural Center for the Arts on Brinkerhoff St.  Beginner & Intermediate classes meet at 1:30 & 3:00.  Victoria also offers classes later on Tuesdays, which are open to public & homeschool students alike.  For more information you can see the class descriptions for the later day classes here on the Arts Center website  http://plattsburgharts.org/?page_id=8887   (scroll down to the bottom of the page).  You can also contact Victoria directly with any questions or to sign-up at 

Information about Victoria's training & experience:

"Victoria has the expertise and experience to not only demonstrate correctly but to analyze and alter the class exercises to best benefit the immediate needs of the students at the precise moment- something that teaching from a pre-fabricated class manual cannot achieve.

She studied with great teachers and prestigious ballet schools-  Les Grandes Ballets in her early teenage years followed by  American Ballet Theater, Joffrey and privately with such prominent artists as George Chaffee, Igor Schwetzoff. Nicholas Orloff , Nina Stroganova, Maya Piletskaya, Melissa Hayden  and more.

Victoria performed classical ballet in Stuttgart, Havana, Frankfurt, New York, Koln, Vienna, Bonn, Montreal  ect. Victoria  was the personal protegee of Kaleria Fedicheva."

French Class

The following was posted by Lisa Bergmann this morning on the Facebook group regarding the French classes that will be offered at co-op starting 10/30:

After getting several questions about the French class, Carole and I decided that the Oct 30 co-op will not be a class, but will be more of a sign-up, introduction to her, and information about her class. She needs to know how many people are interested and also their ages before she can figure out if there needs to be one or two classes. Each class possibly being 45 minutes long.

She is willing to do a multiple child rate of 50% for second child. (If there's more in your family you can discuss with her.)

If you're interested, you can sign-up next week at Oct 30 co-op and pay for the remaining three co-op French classes for this year for $30 total, per child, or $45 for two children.

You can also contact her directly with other questions at her email: Duboiscarole8@aol.com

Homeschooling Contact List

It has been a few months since we updated the contact list, and since we have had many new families join our community, that means it's time!

This is a list of local homeschool families who are choosing to share their contact info ONLY with EACH OTHER for the purposes of planning events, park days, and generally just keeping everyone in touch.  :-)   NO information on this list is shared with the public or on the internet in any way.

This list is NOT accessible online.   It is a PDF file that will be emailed directly to you, and only to the families who choose to participate.

If you wish to be on (and receive a copy of) the North Country Contact List, or your contact or family information has changed since the last list went out, please email the following to Kari Zurlo @pyrz51@frontier.com

Last name
Parent names
Address
Phone(s)
Email  Names and ages of children


Again, only those providing the info will receive a copy.

If you have already provided the info you do not need to provide again.

CO-OP INFORMATION FOR WED, OCTOBER 30, 2013

CO-OP INFORMATION FOR WED, OCTOBER 30, 2013 
Where: Cadyville Wesleyan Church, Rt 3, Cadyville, NY
When:  11:00am - 3:00pm (ending time depends on what classes your family participates in)

Please RSVP as soon as you know what classes your child wants to attend, so teachers can buy supplies & finish planning. Classes without enough students will be cancelled.  If you have already RSVP'd you do not have to do so again.  When RSVP'ing please make sure to do so to the teacher for the class(es) your child(ren) are interested in, or on the Facebook group.  Contact information for each teacher is listed below in the class descriptions.

Free Play Room: Legos

Community Service Project: Please bring a nonperishable item for a local food shelf. Drop box will be near sign-in table.

11:00 - 12:00: 
Preschool --
Fall theme preschool class to tie in with the Banker's field trip. Apples, pumpkins, leaves, and all things fall will be the theme of this class. Please note: There will NOT be Halloween activities in this class.
Teacher: Lisa Bergin
Fee: $1 per child
RSVP: Lisa Bergin, bergs76@gmail.com

Elementary kids #1 --
Elementary Engineering
We'll be learning a bit about the different types of engineering, and students will rotate through some hands-on demos, all based on Janice VanCleave's Engineering for Every Kid. The class is aimed at kids in grades K-5. Students not able to follow written instructions will need to buddy up with either a parent or another child who can.
Teacher: Emily Blauvelt
Fee: FREE
RSVP: Emily, emily.blauvelt@gmail.com

Elementary kids #2 --
The Science & Art of Butterflies
Teacher: Amanda Bokus
Fee: $2 per child
RSVP: Amanda, bokusfamily@westelcom.com

Older Kids (10+) --
Thomas Edison & Electricity Experiments, Part 1
Teachers: Holly & TJ Warren
In this class we will use activities from the Beyond Five In A Row manual to explore & discuss the life of young Thomas Edison.  Students will then be broken into groups to work on a variety of snap-circuit kits.
Fees & Assignments:  There are no fees for this class.  If possible have your child read the first 1/2 of the book Childhood of Famous Americans: Thomas Edison.
This is the book we will be using:  http://www.amazon.com/Thomas-Edison-Inventor-Childhood-Americans/dp/0020418507.
If your family has a set of snap-circuits they would be willing to donate just for this class period please contact Holly.
RSVP: Holly, hollyjwarren@gmail.com


12:00 - 1:00: bag lunch/recess


12:45-1:00: Children's Chorus will be meeting in the sanctuary.  We will be learning a variety of religious & secular holiday songs to sing at a nursing home visit to be arranged for mid December.

1:00 - 2:00:

American Girls Club -- This club is for kids in 2nd - 6th grade. Books for the year will be chosen by the students at this first meeting, plus several craft activities will be provided.
Teachers: Holly Warren & Amanda Bokus
Fee: None for this class session, but your student will need to buy the assigned books or get them from the library.
RSVP: Holly or Amanda (see emails above)

Boys Book Club -- This club is for boys in 4th and up. They will be starting with a discussion of the book Hatchet by Gary Paulsen. Please have read the book prior to coming to class. More information on the book can be found here: http://www.amazon.com/Hatchet-Gary-Paulsen/dp/1416936475/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1379351372&sr=1-1&keywords=hatchet+by+gary+paulsen
Teacher: Tammy Neureuther
Fees & Assignments: No fee for this class session. Please have read the book Hatchet prior to class.
RSVP: Tammy, tamneureuther@yahoo.com

Board Game Club -- This club has two sections. One is for boys & girls from K-3, the other is for boys & girls grades 4+. Games will be set up in separate classrooms. Please bring your favorite game to share, and make sure to label your box too! Any questions can be directed to Amanda Bokus.


2:00 - 3:00:

French Classes, beginning Oct 30, 2013, from 2-3pm, with Carole Dubois at the Cadyville Wesleyan Church following regular co-op classes.

There will be four classes (10/30, 11/6, 11/20, and 12/4) for the rest of 2013 year for $40 per child (possibly a reduced fee for family rate, being worked on presently). Classes will resume when co-op begins in Jan 2014.    Here is a description of teacher and class as stated by Carole:   " I am French Canadian, as you may guess, my first language is French. I know quite a bit about children, I raised four of my own, as a single parent.  I taught French in Willsboro's Middle School and High School. I organized the French Club and a few trips to Montreal. I also taught in Peru's High School, for a one year contract only.  I plan to teach your children the basic of French like numbers, days of the week, months, weather adding some usual common sentences. I will teach French just like any French text book, I think its important to know, because some parents may think the French Canadian language  is different than the European one. I traveled through the province of Quebec and part of France, mostly Paris. I am very familiar  with  both cultures, I will  be able to answer almost any questions on that subject.  My goal is to make  learning  French enjoyable, my experience taught me children learn very well, while having fun."

Please contact Lisa Bergmann at ljddragon@juno.com with any questions or to RSVP.  


--

Homeschool Swim

The Comfort Inn has agreed to host the homeschool swim time again this year!

Swim will start 11/13/13, run from 12:30-2:30pm, and the cost is $3 per child swimming.  Adults (swimming or not) and non-swimming children are free.  

This is a drop-in event, you do not have to arrive right at 12:30 or stay until 2:30.  Come when you can, leave when you want!   Small lockers, a restroom, and changing rooms are available in the swimming area for our use.

The Comfort Inn pool has a kiddie end with a play area, and an end for older kids with water slides. The kiddie toys & water slides will run the first hour of the swim time, then be turned off so that the older kids can have full use of the deep end of the pool for swimming.

Please contact Lisa Bergmann at ljddragon@juno.com with any questions.

French Classes for Homeschoolers

French Classes, beginning Oct 30, 2013, from 2-3pm, with Carole Dubois at the Cadyville Wesleyan Church following regular co-op classes.

There will be four classes (10/30, 11/6, 11/20, and 12/4) for the rest of 2013 year for $40 per child (possibly a reduced fee for family rate, being worked on presently). Classes will resume when co-op begins in Jan 2014.   

Here is a description of teacher and class as stated by Carole:   " I am French Canadian, as you may guess, my first language is French. I know quite a bit about children, I raised four of my own, as a single parent.  I taught French in Willsboro's Middle School and High School. I organized the French Club and a few trips to Montreal. I also taught in Peru's High School, for a one year contract only.  I plan to teach your children the basic of French like numbers, days of the week, months, weather adding some usual common sentences. I will teach French just like any French text book, I think its important to know, because some parents may think the French Canadian language  is different than the European one. I traveled through the province of Quebec and part of France, mostly Paris. I am very familiar  with  both cultures, I will  be able to answer almost any questions on that subject.  My goal is to make  learning  French enjoyable, my experience taught me children learn very well, while having fun."

Please contact Lisa Bergmann at ljddragon@juno.com with any questions or to RSVP.  

Hugh O'Brian Leadership Conference

The Hugh O'Brian Youth s Director of Recruitment is  extending an invitation for our homeschooling families to have their children attend HOBY's annual youth leadership conference in Troy from May 30th - June 1st, 2014. Contact the group directly, using the contact information below if you have questions or would like to participate.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
My name is Amanda Walshjamin and I am the Director of Recruitment for an organization called Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership - New York East (HOBY NY-East).  HOBY NY-East is the regional affiliate for an international leadership development program – Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) – that is targeted at high school aged students.  Specifically, it is the mission of our organization to inspire and develop our global community of youth and volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation.

One way in which we achieve this goal is by organizing a 3-day leadership seminar for high school sophomores.  This year’s seminar is scheduled from Friday May 30th – Sunday June 1st at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, NY.  This seminar is open to all high school sophomores who either live or go to school in the following counties: Albany, Clinton, Columbia, Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene, Hamilton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Orange, Otsego, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie, Sullivan, Ulster, Warren, and Washington.  Over the course of the weekend, the students who attend will learn about personal leadership, group leadership, leadership for society, and the importance of community service.

We are expecting to have over 200 students in attendance.   A member of your home school association could be one of them!   

There is a fee for attending our program.  The cost is $150 for the first student registered by a school or home school association and $350 for each additional student.  However, if you are interested in having a student our seminar, please do not let cost be the factor that stops you from enrolling him or her.  Please contact us so that we can work out a solution.

If you would like to learn more about our programs, please visit www.hoby.org and www.hobynye.org.  Attached to this email is a list of frequently asked questions that you should review.  Additionally, if you have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact me either via email or at 845-304-0765.

Thank you for your time.

Amanda Walshjamin
HOBY NY-East Director of Recruitment

Gibbord's Ballet For Homeschoolers

Guibbord’ is excited to offer dance class for homeschooling families!

Mondays starting Nov. 4
Registration fee $25.00, second child’s registrations $20.00


Or if paid in October $20.00 & $15.00
$9.00 per class paid monthly
Family rate: 5% off monthly tuition


Kinder ballet & *Gym for ages 3-6 45 min
Ballet barre & **Character dance for ages 7-10 1 hour
Ballet barre & **Character dance for ages 11 & older 1.25 hours


Times available between 10am-3pm on Mondays

*Gym space is a smaller studio set up with inclines, steps, barrels, matting, whittle climbing tressle, low balance beams and an assortment of other hand/eye coordination activities.

**Character dance is a style of ballet deriving inspiration from national or folk dances.  The movements tend to be less stylized than in classical ballet, allowing great individual expression and diversity.

On Tuesday “Moving Tots’ is offered 10:30-11:15 am for ages 18 months to 3 years. No registration fee.  Join anytime $10.00 per class.  Parent participation required.  


Deborah A Guibord-Stay 40th year in business!
BFA degree in Dance
Associate Diploma thru Imperial Society of Teachers of Dancing, London, England
Licentiate Cecchetti USA
Graduate work in “Movement” at University of CT
Instructor of Movement at: Seton Academy, Kaleidoscope, Little Saints

North Country Cultural Art Center Classes (Clay, Ballet, Music and More

Full information on youth classes being offered this November & December by NCCCA can be viewed here:

http://plattsburgharts.org/?page_id=8887



Mommy/Daddy and Me Clay Time (Ages 2-4)
Tuesday, November 12 or December 10

Introduce your child to the world of clay. This fun class will allow your child to explore the unique textures and properties of clay, encouraging them to…(click here for more information and class details)


Kids’ Clay Hand Building (Ages 5-9)
Sundays, November 10-December 8
Squish. Smoosh. Sculpt! Learn to turn clay into bowls, cups, and even crazy sculptures! Students learn….(click here for more information and class details)
Deliver cookies direct to Santa on this special holiday plate. Children will be able to design their own holiday treasures…(click here for more information and class details

Kids’ Ornaments (Ages 5-8)
Sunday, December 8
Start a holiday tradition with our clay ornaments class specially designed for kids! Your child will create three unique and handcrafted holiday ornaments…(click here for more information and class details)


Textures! (Ages 5-9)
Sunday, November 17
Embark on a fun-filled afternoon bursting with incredible sensory experiences! Your child will use their hands and objects to see how textures can be pressed into clay making…(click here for more information and class details)
Start a holiday tradition with our clay ornaments class specially designed for kids! Your child will create three unique and handcrafted holiday ornaments…(click here for more information and class details)


Kids’ Clay Hand Building (Ages 10-14)

Saturdays, November 16-December 14
Learn to sculpt with clay! This class introduces students to the basics of hand building. Learn about how slab, coil, and pinch methods are used…(click here for more information and class details)

Kids’ Wheel (Ages 12-14)
Saturdays, November 23-December 14
Learn to sculpt clay on a wheel. Create mugs, bowls, plates, dishes, or anything else that’s round! This class will introduce you…. (click here for more information and class details)

Second Sunday Family Arts

Spend a creative afternoon with artist-instructor Jeff Woodard as he leads your family on a fun arts adventure! November’s project is a cornucopia sculpture, perfect for this holiday season! December is an open studio day where Jeff will help your children create their own unique projects!



Music for Small Hands (Ages 2-3) and (Ages 4-5)
Thursdays, Nov. 7-Dec. 19, no class Nov. 28

This playful class will introduce you and your child to the world of music. Children are given the opportunity to make rhythm patterns, combine music with movement and…(click here for more information and class details)

This class includes the principles of Classical Ballet tailored for young children. This includes floor exercises, barre exercises, small floor jumps, leaps, turns, improvisation and…(click here for more information and class details)
This course is Classical Ballet for the more advanced! Learn more barre exercises and stretches, center movements of adagio, turns and jumps, as well as pirouettes, petite allegro, waltzes and….(click here for more information and class details)

Art Classes in Saranac Lake


http://www.adirondackcarousel.org/event/after-school-childrens-workshop/

Local artist, Stephanie DeJoseph, founder of La Mia Designs,  will provide a 6 week after school series for Children ages 6 and up.

Cost: $20.00 per person, per class, registration and payment due prior to class which includes materials unless otherwise noted.

Time: 3:30-5pm, Nov. 5, 7, 12,14,19,21

Registration for creative workshops need to be made through La Mia Designs at least one day prior to the actual workshop. Please email lamiahandbagsandaccessories@yahoo.com for registration information.

Workshop Themes per block of time.


  1.   Sweater Wreaths
  2.   Textile painting with vintage kitchen utensils, stamps and objects from nature on tote bags.
  3.   Mixed media wall hanging on barn wood
  4.   Robots-Recycling everyday items into a funky friend
  5.   An autumn harvest, creating fiber art with a harvest theme
  6.   Ornamentation! Creating keepsakes for the holidays

Defensive Driving Class

Defensive driving class offered by a local homeschooling family, the Rabideau's.

Champlain Town Hall
November 30, 2013 9am-3pm
9am-3pm

This class offers a 4 point reduction on your license and/or 10% insurance reduction for the next 3 years.  

Price for the class is $25.

You need to bring your driver's license & a bag lunch.  

Call 581-578-9626 with questions or to sign-up.

This course can also be taken online at  www.additionaltraining.com.

JR Docent Day -postponed one week

Due to the last home-school soccer game--Jr Docent history program is postponed one week to Oct 28.


The Crux Indoor Climbing Center Field Trip

The Crux Indoor Climbing Center Field Trip

http://www.climbthecrux.com/

Friday, November 8th - 1:00-4:00pm

Ages 4+

$12 per climber which includes equipment, instruction, climbing and extra staffing fee. No charge if not climbing. 

Kids 14+ can learn to belay. Parents are encouraged to belay to allow for extra climbing time for the kids. 

Please RSVP  to Kari Zurlo at pyrz51@frontier.com or message her on Facebook, prior to Oct. 25th with number of climbers.

Pendragon Theatre's Oedipus

The Weibrecht For Schools Only series presents Pendragon Theatre's Oedipus by Steve Berkoff. The performance takes placid Tuesday, December 10 at 9:30 AM.  All tickets are $2.  Learn More

About the Show
The Greek tragedy par excellence, Oedipus is a haunting story of a man's search to find the truth. Considered the first detective story, the drama is a kind of epic who-done-it complete with mystery, murder and mayhem.  Theater's original "saint and sinner," Oedipus goes on a fact-finding mission that results in consequences beyond his imagination. One of the trilogy of the Theban plays by Sophocles, this play drives forward at a furious pace as one clue leads to the next and the investigation builds to a shattering resolution. Using a new and accessible translation by celebrated actor and director Steven Berkoff, Pendragon's production takes place in a contemporary setting enhancing the murder mystery qualities of the play. Oedipus becomes a modern self-made man who unwittingly gets caught in the web of his fate as he discovers the man he seeks is none other than himself.

The Weibrecht For Schools Only Series is  funded in part by the New York State Council on the Arts, the Lake Placid Education Foundation, the Bruce L. Crary Foundation, the Redducs Foundation, Stewart's Shops, and the Joy to the Children Benefit. 


Reservations can be made by calling Anya at 518.523.2512. 

The Lake Placid Center for the Arts is dedicated to presenting and fostering quality arts, which inspire, enrich, educate and entertain people of all ages.

Jr Docent History Program

Jan McCormick will be starting the Junior Docent program again. This month the meeting will be on Monday October 21 at the North Country Alliance Church. At the meeting we will also talk about time and location for the future monthly meetings. Jan is interested in possibly doing meetings at a historic school house in Chazy that she is helping with.

Date and Time: Oct 28 @ 2:30
Location: North Country Alliance Church
Leader: Jan McCormick

*Maps and Mapping               
Students will discover the history of mapping, what is a map, everything that can be mapped and learn how to create your own maps to scale.

Please pass to anyone who you think may be interested.

Train Trip Cancelled

THERE IS NO TRAIN TRIP TOMORROW.

The Adirondack Railroad just called Kari Zurlo to cancel.  

The engine is broke down. Mechanic says there is no way it will be fixed for tomorrow.


Please contact Kari Zurlo with any questions at pyrz51@frontier.com .  

History Competitions (Art-all ages and Project-Grades 6-12)

HISTORY Art-ALL AGES
New York State  History Day encourages all students to submit a t-shirt design for the New York State History Day 2014 theme: “Rights and Responsibilities in History.” The winning design will be featured on the 2014 t-shirt.  The name of the winning student, school, and teacher will be posted on the New York State History Day 2014 web site. In addition, the winning student will receive $50.

Click here for more Information

HISTORY- Grades 6-12
http://www.nyshistoryday.org/
National History Day, a year-long educational program sponsored in New York State by the New York State Historical Association, encourages students to explore local, state, national, and world history. This year's theme is Rights and Responsibilities in History: Information on the theme: http://ny.nhd.org/Theme.htm

Once students choose a topic, they choose a project area to display their information: These category guides, created by the "National History Day in Wisconsin" staff, provide students with step-by-step directions for creating History Day projects.  Documentary Guide
Exhibit Guide
Paper Guide
Performance Guide
Web Site Guide

Our local competition occurs at Fort Ticonderoga. http://www.fortticonderoga.org/learn/students/historyday
This year the competition will be on Saturday March 8, 2014.

North Country Homeschooling Co-op

Welcome to a new year of co-op! 

There are LOTS of changes to co-op this year as we continue to grow and more families offer to teach.  Our biggest changes are our new location, new meeting time, and a big expansion to our offerings for the middle & high school kids.  Please excuse the length of this email. There is a lot of information to share!


New Mission Statement

The North Country Homeschool Co-op a nondenominational group, open to all homeschooling families in our region.  We are parent run, with parents planning, teaching, and organizing all our activities.  We provide a mix of structured classes and free play time for children from preschool through high school, with a strong focus on play based, hands on, activities for all ages.  We welcome children of all abilities and ages!

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


New Location

Our big news is that the North Country Homeschool Co-op has a new home!  The Cadyville Wesleyan Church will be hosting us this year.  They are located on Rt 3, right in the village of Cadyville, next to the old elementary school building.  The new building is amazing with lots of classrooms, a preschool room, full kitchen, nursery/toddler room with a private bathroom, teen lounge, rec room with ping-pong, foosball, etc, large fellowship hall, and even an elevator for handicap access to the basement where the classrooms are!   The church property borders the old Cadyville school property, and we have access to the playground and fields for classes and recess time.  It is also conveniently located near the Cadyville beach, and also the town park with it's rec trails, another playground, and disc golf course. 


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New Meeting Time & Class Schedule

Co-op will be meeting on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, and the 5th Wednesday in long months. Co-op has use of the building from 11:00am - 3:00pm every other Wednesday. 

There is a small possibility we may occasionally have to cancel classes if there is a Wednesday funeral service.  In the event that happens we will have 24-48 hours notice from Pastor Jeff at the church, and notices will immediately go out to the newsletter, event blog & Facebook group. 

The regular weekly schedule will be:

11:00am - 12:00pm -- Structured class time for all ages PreK- high school.

12:00pm - 1:00pm -- Bag lunch.  Recess next door at the playground (weather permitting).  Indoor group games, rec room time, free play room & board games in bad weather.  Children's Chorus will meet about once a month from 12:30-1:00.

1:00pm - 2:00pm -- Clubs (book clubs, board game club), additional activities & outside speakers for older kids, ongoing craft activities & other projects.  Most afternoon offerings will be for the 7+ age kids, but younger siblings are always welcome to stay and play in the preschool, free play, nursery rooms, or neighboring playground.

2:00pm - 3:00pm -- This time slot is available as overflow for longer running afternoon classes, and any classes parents would like to arrange by outside teachers (such as a hired teacher coming in to offer a biweekly language class or activity like karate)

*** Please note that the homeschool support group Kari Zurlo was running out of her home will be moving to co-op this year!  The support group will meet during the 1:00p - 3:00p slot, upstairs in the fellowship hall.   Young children are welcome to the meeting, which will be adjacent to the nursery/toddler room. Older children can keep themselves busy with the various afternoon clubs, activities, crafts, rec room, and at the nearby playground if there are volunteers to watch them there. Please make note of the new support group times in with the class schedule below. ***


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New Class Structure

As you can see we're trying things a bit differently this year!  Classes or activities will be offered for different age ranges/interests in separate classrooms.  You can see in the class schedule below that we are offering a lot more classes for the older kids! 

We are also adding a little more structure to the class time, particularly during the 11:00-12:00 time slot. 

Each class for school age children will have activities in its own assigned classroom, with a teacher & assigned helper.  Meanwhile parents will have a chance to assist in other rooms, assist with set-up & clean-up, visit in the fellowship room, or supervise younger siblings in the nursery or preschool area.

Parents of preschool & nursery age children only are welcome and encouraged to attend activities with their little ones.  Most weeks there will be a designated preschool room with a short circle/story time, followed by a couple of activities & then free play.  The nursery room is upstairs off the fellowship hall, and next to the kitchen.  It has rockers, pack n' play, a changing table, baby swings, toddler toys, and a private bathroom.


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New Policy On Students with Disabilities

We have decided to make a formal statement about how we handle students with disabilities since this is a question that is often asked.  Our policy is simple -- we welcome students of ALL abilities!!!  


Our new building is fully handicap accessible, so even children in wheelchairs or with other physical limitations can easily attend co-op classes.

If your child struggles academically, socially or both we encourage you to come try co-op!  Every child is asked to perform at *their* best, but we do not expect every child to perform or act the same.

If your child struggles with social situations or hyperactivity, please know that MANY of the other families who regularly attend co-op have gone through similar things with their children.

Your child is welcome to come and participate at whatever level they are comfortable. For some children this may mean "just" observing for a class or two (or more!). That is fine.  Experience has shown us that most children will overcome their initial shyness after a couple classes.  The free play room is an excellent option for shy or nervous children, as it gives them a chance to meet the other kids, without the pressure of a classroom environment.

Please make sure to speak privately prior to class with your child's teachers & assistants about any special things to keep in mind when teaching your child.  While we are encouraging parents to allow school age children to work as independently as possible with just their teacher & assistant, if a child truly needs a parent present for comfort or assistance just let us know.

Ultimately, parents are responsible for helping their child manage their behavior.  Co-op is a welcoming, but not therapeutic environment.   


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New Motto: Co-op Is Cooperative!  ;-)


We need families willing to help!  How can you help?

1) Teach a class.
This one explains itself.  If you have an idea for a class please contact Amanda Bokus at bokusfamily@westelcom.com or Holly Warren at hollyjwarren@gmail.com, or on the private North Country Homeschooling Facebook page.  If you would be willing to teach or team teach a class, but aren't sure about what to teach or where to start please contact us. We would be happy to provide class ideas, match you with other parents who would prefer to team teach, and generally mentor you a bit through your first co-op teaching experience!

2) Arrange an outside speaker or teacher to lead a class
If you have an outside speaker or teacher you would like to arrange please contact Holly Warren at hollyjwarren@gmail.com or private message on Facebook to Holly Warren.  It is helpful when scheduling an outside speaker/teacher to know what ages they are comfortable working with, what their fees are, and how large a time slot they need. 

3) Sign-up to assist in a classroom helping others who are teaching
One of our classroom changes is we are assigning helpers to as many classes as possible.  The helpers job is to assist the teacher in whatever way the teacher needs help.  This will most likely be with things like set-up, clean-up, and rotating through with the teacher to answer questions or provide assistance. Room helpers will make it so that all parents do not have to attend classes with children who may need help, and allow parents to focus on assisting younger siblings who need more one-on-one attention.  You can sign-up to be a room helper by emailing Holly Warren at hollyjwarren@gmail.com, private message on Facebook to Holly Warren, or sign-up on the sheets available at the sign-in table at each class session.


4) Sign-up for clean up crew
Clean-up crew helpers will be assigned a particular classroom or classrooms to help clean up & return to their original set-up.  You can sign-up to be on cleaning crew by emailing Holly Warren at hollyjwarren@gmail.com, private message on Facebook to Holly Warren, or sign-up on the sheets available at the sign-in table at each class session.

5) Donate Supplies
Co-op is always in need of basic school supplies.  If you are interested in donating an item or items here is a short list to consider:  plain paper, construction paper, colored pencils, glue sticks, school glue, school scissors, markers, holiday stickers (Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, birthday) for nursing home cards, magic erasers, case of paper towels, rubbermaid style bin for storing supplies at the church, preschool toys, puzzles & books in good condition.

If enough members volunteer to help with teaching, assisting & cleaning everyone should only have to work a couple times each year.  All teaching, room helper, and clean-up assignments will be arranged prior to the class, so you know it will fit into your family's schedule.  If you have a age/grade level you'd prefer to teach or be a room helper with please make a note of that when signing up


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New Membership Fee to Cover Liability Insurance (pending)

The co-op continues to be open to any homeschooling family in our region.  However, due to our group needing to purchase liability insurance, there will be a yearly fee this year for families participating.  The cost hasn't been set yet, as we need to hear back from the insurance agency.   Once more detailed information is available it will immediately be sent out to both the newsletter & the Facebook group.

Families who have never attended co-op before are welcome to attend once before deciding if they'd like to participate regularly & contribute to the insurance policy.


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Class Fees

Fees for individual classes will still be paid weekly to cover costs of materials.  Fees will continue to be collected using the honor system at the sign-in table each class day.  When you sign-in, please be sure to check to see if the classes your child is attending that day have fees, and if so, please put payment in the appropriate envelope. 

As class fees are generally very modest, it is best if families can bring $1's and $5's when paying for classes.

Fees will continue to be announced in the class descriptions so families can make sure they have the correct change. 


Some classes, especially for the middle/high school students, may have higher fees due to the supplies the class requires. For example, we will be offering a dissection class for middle/high school kids during the spring semester, and the dissection kit & 4 specimens will run about $50 per student.   While we try to keep the overall class fees low, students and parents have expressed interest in high level classes or classes that require specific items that may cost more.

Please make sure to check the announcements for any classes your children are attending to see if there is a fee or other item that should be brought in order for them to participate.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Attendance Policy

Participation each week is not mandatory. Families are welcome to come to as many or as few classes as their schedules & interests allow.

Please note the RSVP policy for each class your family is interested in & contact the appropriate person via email or phone. 

Please note that some classes this year, mostly ones for the older kids, will have limited class sizes.  Again, refer to each class write up for full details. 


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


New General Rules

1)  Parents, please do not drop off your child.  Co-op is NOT a drop-off activity.  Parents are expected to be on the premises at all time.   Drop-offs may occasionally be allowed on a case by case basis for children 7+, with prior permission from the instructor and/or one of the co-op coordinators.


2)  Please no candy treats as rewards in class.  In order to be mindful of food allergies, encourage a healthy lifestyle, and mindful of everyone's various food preferences we are asking that candy not NOT be given by teachers as rewards in class.  Families are certainly welcome to pack whatever they would like for their own children to eat during the bag lunch/recess period, but for rewards please consider stickers or other small tokens.

3) All classes will be meeting in the basement of the Cadyville Wesleyan Church unless otherwise stated in the class description.  The church offices are upstairs, and in an effort to be respectful of this fact, and contain the mess we make, we are requesting that students stay downstairs where the classrooms area, unless there is a specific class they are attending upstairs or they are with a parent in the nursery/toddler area. 




North Country Homeschooling-October 16, 2013 -- Banker's Field trip

October 16, 2013 -- Banker's Field trip -- 9:30am

We will be meeting at Banker's again this year for apple & pumpkin picking, wagon rides, feeding the animals, and cider & doughnuts.  Banker's is on Rt 3 in West Plattsburgh, NY.  The field trip starts at 9:30, please plan to arrive by 9:15, and park in the rear (not up near the store) where the signs indicate field trip parking.

The price will be $6.50 per child for apple picking, pumpkin picking, food for the animals, and a cider/doughnut snackAdults and pick apples and have cider & doughnuts for $3.50 each.  Unlike past years, adults can not pay the child's rate in order to pick a pumpkin as well.  Banker's had a poor pumpkin crop due to the wet spring.  If adults want to purchase a pumpkin they can do so separately through the store. 

North Country Homeschooling- October 30, 2013

First day of regular classes at the Wesleyan Church 
2083 NY State Route 3. Cadyville, NY 12918

Free Play Room: Legos

Community Service Project:  Please bring a nonperishable item for a local food shelf.  Drop box will be near sign-in table.


11:00 - 12:00:
Preschool --  Fall theme preschool class to tie in with the Banker's field trip.  Apples, pumpkins, leaves, and all things fall will be the theme of this class.  Please note:  There will NOT be Halloween activities in this class.
Teacher: Lisa Bergin
Fee: None
RSVP: Lisa Bergin, bergs76@gmail.com

Elementary kids #1 --
Elementary Engineering, using VanCleave's "Engineering For Every Child"
Teacher: Emily Blauvelt
Fee: None
RSVP: Emily, emily.blauvelt@gmail.com

Elementary kids #2 --
The Science & Art of Butterflies
Teacher: Amanda Bokus
Fee: None
RSVP: Amanda, bokusfamily@westelcom.com

Older Kids (9+) --
Thomas Edison & Electricity Experiments, Part 1

Teachers: Holly & TJ Warren
Fees & Assignments:   There are no fees for this class.  Your child will need to read the first 1/2 of the book Childhood of Famous Americans: Thomas Edison.
This is the book we will be using:http://www.amazon.com/Thomas-Edison-Inventor-Childhood-Americans/dp/0020418507. 
If your family has a set of snap-circuits they would be willing to donate just for this class period please contact Holly.
RSVP: Holly,  hollyjwarren@gmail.com

12:00 - 1:00:   bag lunch/recess

1:00 - 2:00:
American Girls Club -- This club is for kids in 2nd - 6th grade.  Books for the year will be chosen by the students at this first meeting, plus several craft activities will be provided. 
Teachers: Holly Warren & Amanda Bokus
Fee: None for this class session, but your student will need to buy the assigned books or get them from the library.
RSVP: Holly or Amanda (see emails above)


Boys Book Club -- This club is for boys in 4th and up.  They will be starting with a discussion of the book Hatchet by Gary Paulsen.  Please have read the book prior to coming to class.  More information on the book can be found here: http://www.amazon.com/Hatchet-Gary-Paulsen/dp/1416936475/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1379351372&sr=1-1&keywords=hatchet+by+gary+paulsen
Teacher: Tammy Neureuther
Fees & Assignments: No fee for this class session.  Please have read the book Hatchet prior to class.
RSVP: Tammy, tamneureuther@yahoo.com

Board Game Club --  This club has two sections. One is for boys & girls from K-3, the other is for boys & girls grades 4+.   Games will be set up in separate classrooms.  Please bring your favorite game to share, and make sure to label your box too!   Any questions can be directed to Amanda Bokus.


2:00 - 3:00:
Finish up clubs