HEART of Texas

Homeschool with HEART!
December 2017
HEART OF TEXAS   
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc.

DECEMBER 2017 ISSUE
Home School News and Events
 
Dear Home School Families and Friends,
We are excited to share information that we feel may be of interest to home schoolers in North Texas.  Please share this newsletter with your friends or other homeschooling families in your network.

If you use content from this newsletter for placement within your own newsletter, website, or other communications, please acknowledge the HEART of Texas newsletter as your source via a link to our website: www.heartoftex.org.

If you know of an event or activity that would benefit other home schoolers, please drop us a line at editor@heartoftex.org so we can share it in our next bi-weekly e-newsletter.

Support group meeting listings are free. If you are a new group please contact us so we can also add you to our database so families can find you.  
Non-profit clubs and organizations that are in partnership with HEART of Texas can also promote their meetings in our newsletter.  Advertising space is available for those wishing to advertise their businesses, classes, workshops, job listings, or other opportunities.  Special rates and other benefits are given to businesses and organizations which partner with us. Email us for more information about our Partnership Programs.

Additionally, if you or anyone in your homeschool group would like to submit articles, or volunteer to serve on our newsletter or advertising teams, please contact us at editor@heartoftex.org.

We would love to hear from you!  


www.HEARTofTex.org
You can also "Like" HEART of Texas on Facebook!


Our deadlines are as follows:  
the 1st of the month, for the mid-month issue;
the 15th of the month for the issue that goes out at the beginning of the following month.
Please send all submissions to editor@heartoftex.org for consideration in the newsletter.

Thanks so much!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Home Educators Alliance for Resources and Training of Texas, Inc., (HEART of Texas) is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation dedicated to serving the home schooling support groups, leaders and families in our regional service area. Our mission is to provide leadership, training, resources and support within the home school community through communications, networking activities, and events directed at home school support groups, leaders, and families in the Greater Dallas/Fort Worth and surrounding North Texas region.

This information is provided as a service to our fellow home schoolers. HEART of Texas does not necessarily endorse, warrant, or represent any of the activities, events, or organizations listed, or their content, views, opinions, or recommendations. Please use your own judgment when considering taking part in or attending any of these events or activities or visiting any of the websites or links provided.  HEART of Texas assumes no responsibility for the content of any ads, promises made, or the quality/reliability of the products or services offered.

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MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS
Click Here to View Month at a Glance


EARLY BIRD REGISTRATION DEC 31: 
HEART OF TEXAS
REGIONAL HOMESCHOOL COLLEGE NIGHT

Date of Event: TUESDAY, JAN 23
GRAPEVINE CONVENTION CENTER IN GRAPEVINE, TX


6:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
Speaking sessions begin at 6:00pm
Exhibit Hall Opens at 7pm

Speaking Schedule Available Soon!

This is a great opportunity to meet with recruiters from nearly 100 colleges/universities including the service academies, and several trade schools, and get your college-prep questions answered "live"!  We will also have speaking sessions available on a wide array of topics.  Best of all, this college night is designed for homeschoolers, by homeschoolers!  Yes, homeschoolers really can go to college, and many colleges like recruiting home schoolers -- as evidenced by the many colleges which participate in our college night each year. 


ADMISSION:
Prior to December 31, 2017 (paid online or postmarked):
$10 per family (FREE if you are a HEART of Texas member with current membership card)

Prior to January 16, 2018 (paid online or postmarked):  $15 per family

At the Door:  $15 per person (maximum $45/family)
Even if you plan to register at the door, it will save time if you use our online form.
We can now accept cash, check, or charge at the door!

Sorry, No refunds!

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers


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MONTHLY
"HOMESCHOOLING 101" INFORMATIONAL MEETINGS
BEDFORD

Time: 7pm-8:30pm
Cost: FREE

LOCATION:
Bedford Public Library
, 2424 Forest Ridge Drive, Bedford, 76021

For More Information:  Click Here
To Register:  Click Here

To Ask Questions:  Click Here

Details:  Thinking about homeschooling? 
Wondering what's involved, how it works, and if it's right for your family?  
Our "Homeschooling 101" informational meetings are designed to teach you the basics of homeschooling and give you the information you need to help you get started on the right foot.   

Some of the Questions answered during the session:
What is required to homeschool in the state of Texas?
Where can I find curriculum?
What about teacher certification?
How do homeschoolers perform on standardized tests?
Can homeschoolers go to college?
How do homeschoolers perform in the real world?
and MORE!!

Other Homeschooling 101 Informational Meetings: TBA 
If your support group would like to host an Info Meeting, or if you would like to become a part of our Homeschooling 101 Presentation Team, p
lease contact us via our website.  


BECOME A MENTOR!!
If you are a veteran home school mom or dad homeschool group leader and would like to stay connected to the homeschooling community by serving in this way, we would love for you to consider becoming a Mentor!  We are recruiting Mentors for our Homeschool Mentor Program.  Mentors assist new homeschool families with getting started on their journey.  It is not a tutoring service or classes for homeschool students.  This is a ministry to parents who are seeking guidance in getting started homeschooling their children. 
For more information, please contact us via our website.

View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers

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A WORD FROM OUR SPONSOR:
MATTHEW ROAD ACADEMY

An affordable Christian university model school, we offer academic and elective courses from K-12. Pick and choose courses from Art to English Composition to Algebra and more! Full and part time enrollment available. Limited spots in each course.
Matthew Road Academy is currently accepting applications for the 2017-2018 school year.

Please check out our website for more information: http://matthewroadacademy.org
or call the school office at 469-200-0227.



View Highlights

View Month at a Glance

View Newsletter Articles and Headers


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~~What's Inside This Issue ~~
     (Click on the links below)

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS AT A GLANCE
Dec -- Reading Programs
Dec
-- Amon Carter Museum Exhibits
Dec-- Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits
Dec -- Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge
Dec -- Dallas Arboretum
Dec -- Fort Worth Botanic Garden Programs
Dec -- Texas Discovery Gardens
Dec -- Library Used Book Sales Across North Texas
Dec -- Library Programs
Dec -- Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs (Select Parks)
Dec -- Purtis Creek State Park -- Athens
Dec -- Cedar Hill State Park -- Cedar Hill
Dec -- Ray Roberts Lake State Park -- Denton
Dec -- Eisenhower State Park -- Denison
Dec -- Fort Richardson State Park/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway -- Jacksboro
Dec -- Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway -- Mineral Wells
Dec -- Tyler State Park -- Tyler
Dec-- Lake Tawakoni State Park -- Wills Point
Dec -- 3D Films at Perot Museum's Hoglund Foundation Theater -- Dallas
Dec -- Films at Omni/Imax (FW Museum of Science & History)
Dec -- HEART Partner: Homeschool Classes at the Fort Worth Zoo
Dec --
HEART Partner:  Old Red Museum - Current Exhibits
Dec --  "Homeschooling 101" Informational Meetings
Sponsor -- HEART Partner Matthew Road Academy

November
Nov -- Grapevine (Gaylord): Lone Star Christmas & Ice (Twas Night Before Christmas)
Nov -- Dallas Arboretum: The 12 Days of Christmas
Nov  -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiday at the Arboretum
Nov -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiay Tea
Nov-- Grapevine: Merry Christmas Charlie Brown Exhibit
Nov --  Grapevine (Vetro Glassblowing Studio): Traditional Ornament Help-Create Events
Nov 4 -- Camp Tonkawa: Horsemanship Day Camp
Nov 4-5 -- Camp Tonkawa: Primitive Survival Skills Class 2
Nov 15 -- Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Nov 18 -- FW Japanese Garden:  Tea Ceremony in the Japanese Garden
Nov 18-19 -- Camp Tonkawa: Native American Indian Camp
Nov 20 -- Grapevine: Carol of Lights (5pm)
Nov 21 -- Fossil Rim: The Lorax Homeschool Class & Tour

Through Nov 22 -- Dallas Arboretum: Autumn at the Arboretum
Nov 22 -- Grapevine: Light Show Spectacular (though Jan 7)
Nov 22 --
Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Nov 24 - Dec 23 -- Grapevine: Christmas on Main
Nov 24 -- Grapevine (British Emporium): Annual Great British Thanksgiveaway (9am-6pm)
Nov 24 -- Eisenhower SP:
Thanksgiving Recovery Hike
Nov 24 -- Casa Manana: 
Santa Claus - A New Musical (through Dec 23)
Nov 24 -- Eisenhower SP: Animal Signs Hike
Nov 24 -- Cedar Hill SP:  Trail Off the Turkey
Nov 24 -- Cedar Hill SP:  State Park After Dark
Nov 24 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Painting with a Ranger
Nov 24 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Night Hike
Nov 24 -- Tyler SP:
10th Annual "Walk Off the Bird" Bird Walk
Nov 24 -- Tyler SP: "Lost" in the Forest Hike

Nov 24-Jan 7 -- Dallas Arboretum: DeGolyer House "The Nutcracker Suite" Decor
Nov 25 -- Eisenhower SP: Fossils! Hike to the Past
Nov 25 -- Cedar Hill SP:  Precious Prairie Hike
Nov 25 -- Cedar Hill SP:  Nature Walk on Penn Farm
Nov 25 -- Cedar Hill SP:  Geocaching 101
Nov 25 -- Nature Walk on Penn Farm
Nov 25 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Snakeskin Bookmarks
Nov 25 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Nov 25 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Cross Timbers Bird Walk
Nov 25 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Nov 25 -- Tyler SP: Lakeshore Fall Foliage Photography Hike
Nov 25 -- Tyler SP: Survival Fire
Nov 25 -- Tyler SP: Ranger Campfire Story Time
Nov 26 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Meet a Toad
Nov 28 -- FW Botanic Garden: Little Sprouts: Teddy Bear Picnic
Nov 26 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Geocaching 101
Nov 26 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Bug Picking
Nov 29 -- Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Nov 30 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Center After Hour

December
Dec -- Grapevine (Gaylord): Lone Star Christmas & Ice (Twas Night Before Christmas)
Dec -- Dallas Arboretum: The 12 Days of Christmas
Dec -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiday at the Arboretum
Dec -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiay Tea
Dec -- Grapevine: Light Show Spectacular
Dec -- Grapevine: Merry Christmas Charlie Brown Exhibit
Dec -- Old Red Museum:
Dallas Curated: 50 Objects/ 50 Stories (Through June 8, 2018)
Dec 1 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Night Hike
Dec 1 -- Tyler SP: Texas Project WILD Factilitator Training
Dec 2 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Trail Work Day
Dec 2 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Night Hike
Dec 3 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Hike to the Summit
Dec 3 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Atlatl Demo
Dec 2 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Bird Walk on the Trailway
Dec 2 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Dec 2 -- Fossil Rim: Holiday Around the Rim Sunset Safari
Dec 2 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Dec 2 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Leaf Litter
Dec 2 -- FW Botanic Garden: Fort Worth Opera Christmas Concert
Dec 2 --
Heritage Farmstead: Lantern Light
Dec 2-3 -- Camp Tonkawa: Outdoor Cooking
Dec 3 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Old Trails
Dec 3 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Full Moon Paddle
Dec 4 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Early Birds
Dec 5 -- Fossil Rim: Native Insect Natural Dye Homeschool Class & Tour
Dec 5-10 -- Dallas Summer Musicals:  White Christmas
Dec 6 -- Camp Tonkawa: Nature Awareness Day Camp - Winter
Dec 6 -- Oliver Nature Park (
Home School Class) Junior Meterologist (ages 5-8)
Dec 7 -- Texas Discovery Gardens: Stories and More!
Dec 8 -- Heritage Farmstead (Fun on the Farm): A Visit with Santa
Dec 8 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Preschool Discover Club - Metamorphosis
Dec 8-17 -- Plano Children's Theatre (Courtyard & NTPA): Scrooge
Dec 9 -- FW Botanic Garden: Holiday High Tea

Dec 9 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Dec 9 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Oaks & Prairies
Dec 9 --
Fort Richardson SP: Ghosts of Christmas Past
Dec 9 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Cross Timbers Cowboy Christmas - Music & Poetry
Dec 9 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Birding in the Park
Dec 9 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Geocaching 101
Dec 9 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Bug Picking
Dec 9 -- Dinosaur Valley SP: Star Party in the Valley
Dec 9 -- Amon Carter: Sensory Saturday (2nd Sat)
Dec 9-10 --
Camp Tonkawa: Backpacking Camp
Dec 10 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Canoe Tour
Dec 10 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Owl Box Workshop
Through Dec 10 -- Amon Carter: Nature Collection
Dec 11 -- Fossil Rim:  Wolves! Homeschool Class & Behind-the-Scenes Tour
Dec 12 -- Oliver Nature Park (Home School Class) Junior Meterologist (ages 9-14)
Dec 12 -- Genesis Theater: Belle's Enchanted Holiday
Dec 12 -- Genesis Theater: Emoji Pals
Dec 13 -- Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Dec 13 --
Oliver Nature Park (Little Naturalists) Winter Weather (ages 3-5)
Dec 13 -- GDYO: Holiday Magic
Dec 13 --
Heritage Village (Barnyard Buddies): Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match, by Monica Brown
Through Dec 14 -- FWMS (Omni): The Polar Express
Dec 14 or 15 -- Dallas Museum of Art (Homeschool Family Class)
Dec 14-16 --
Plano Children's Theatre (NTPA): The Nightshade at Christmas
Dec 15 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Preschool Discovery Club - Snakes
Dec 16 -- Log Cabin Village: Folk Songs of the Cowboy and Pioneer
Dec 16 -- Oliver Nature Park: Winter Chemistry (ages 5 and up)
Dec 16 -- FW Botanic Garden: Santa's Wonderland
Dec 16 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Dec 16 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Leave it to Beavers
Dec 16 -- LLELA: Christmas at the Cabin
Dec 16 -- Eisenhower SP: Holly Jolly Cache
Dec 16 -- Eisenhower SP: Santa Hat Hike
Dec 16 --
Lake Mineral Wells SP: Kid's Wilderness Survival
Dec 16 -- Oliver Nature Park (Painting in the Park): Blue Jay (ages 5 and up)
Dec 16 -- Oliver Nature Park: Invasive Species (ages 16 and up)
Dec 16 -- Dallas Museum of Art (Exhibit Opens): Asian Textiles: Art & Trade Along the Silk Road'
Dec 16 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Zig-Zag Landscapes

Dec 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 31 -- Amon Carter: Permanent Collection Tour
Dec 17 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Canoe Fest
Dec 19 -- Genesis Theater: Peter Pan (Daffron)
Dec 20 -- Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Dec 23 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Dec 23 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Beginners Basket Weaving
Dec 23 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Cross Timbers Bird Walk
Dec 23 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Though Dec 23 -- Dallas Children's Theater: A Charlie Brown Christmas
Through Dec 23 -- Artisan Cntr Theater(Main Stage): Annie
Through Dec 23 --
Artisan Cntr Theater (Children): Fairy Tale Christmas Carol
Dec 24 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Animal Ambassador Keychains
Dec 27 -- Dallas Arboretum: BOGO Wednesdays
Dec 27-29 -- Texas Discovery Gardens: Winter Critters Winter Camp (K-4th Gr)
Dec 28 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Center After Hours
Dec 28 --
Oliver Nature Park (Painting at the Park) Winter Wonderland (ages 5 and up)
Dec 28 -- Dallas Children's Theater: Cirque Joyeux (Through Jan 1)
Through Dec 29:  Grapevine (Vetro Glassblowing Studio): Traditional Ornament Help-Create Events
Dec 30 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Nature Hike
Dec 30 --
Ft Worth Nature Center: Winter's Nap
Dec 30 -- LLELA: Kids' Christmas Bird Count
Dec 30 -- LLELA: Ano Nuevo
Dec 30 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Bird Walk on the Trailway
Dec 30 -- Lake Mineral Wells SP: Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Through Dec 30 -- Dallas Heritage Village (Exhibit): Neighborhoods We Called Home
Dec 31 -- Ft Worth Nature Center: Out with a Bang Hike'
Through Dec 31 -- Dallas Museum of Art (Exhibit): The Wittgenstein Vitrine
Through Dec 31 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Exhibit): Cassanova: The Seducation of Europe


January 2018
Through Jan 1 -- Grapevine (Gaylord): Lone Star Christmas & Ice (Twas Night Before Christmas)
Jan -- Old Red Museum (Exhibit): Dallas Curated: 50 Objects / 50 Stories (through June 8, 2018)
Jan 1 -- LLELA: First Day Hike

Jan 1 -- Cedar Hill SP:  Fist Day Nature Walk on Penn Farm
Jan 1 -- Cedar Hill SP:  First Day "Precious Prairie" Hike
Jan 1 -- Cedar Hill SP:  First Day State Park After Dark
Jan 2 -- Dallas Museum of Art (First Tues): Shape by Shape
Jan 2 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Pictures & Pages): Around Our Way on Neighbors Day
Jan 3 --
Oliver Nature Park (Little Naturalists): Constellations (ages 3-5)
Jan 3 -- Oliver Nature Park (Hike with a Naturalist): Nature Exploration Hike
Jan 3-5 -- Texas Discovery Gardens: Have an Ice Day Winter Camp (K-4th Gr)
Jan 4 -- Oliver Nature Park (Hike with a Naturalist): National Trivia Day Hike
Through Jan 4 -- Dallas Arboretum: The 12 Days of Christmas
Jan 5 -- Oliver Nature Park: Animal Science (ages 3-5)
Jan 5-13 --
Genesis Theater: The Drowsy Chaperone
Jan 5 - 27 -- Artisan Cntr Theater (Main): The Marvelous Wonderettes
Jan 6 -- LLELA: Nature Walk
Jan 6 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Ready, Set, Draw
Jan 6 -- Nasher (First Saturday):  Big Idea: Geometric/Organic
Through Jan 7 -- Grapevine: Light Show Spectacular
Through Jan 7 -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiday at the Arboretum
Through Jan 7 -- Dallas Arboretum: Holiay Tea
Through Jan 7 -- Amon Carter: Wild Spaces, Open Seasons: Hunting and Fishing in American Art
Through Jan 7 -- Nasher (Exhibit): Tom Sachs- Tea Ceremony
Jan 8 --
Oliver Nature Park (Painting at the Park) Cottontail (ages 5 and up)
Jan 9 -- Perot Museum (Home School Event): Fuel Up! Renewable Energies
Jan 9 --
Oliver Nature Park (Home School Class) Junior Astronomers (ages 9-14)
Jan 10 -- Oliver Nature Park (Home School Class) Junior Astronomers (ages 5-8)
Jan 12-21 -- Plano Children's(Frisco): Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Jan 13 --
Oliver Nature Park (Hike with a Naturalists) Night Hike
Jan 13-- Amon Carter: Sensory Saturday (2nd Sat)
Jan 13 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Ready, Set, Draw
Jan 13 -- LLELA: Bird Walk
Through Jan 16 -- Grapevine: Merry Christmas Charlie Brown Exhibit
Jan 17 -- Oliver Nature Park (Little Naturalists) Sleepy Squirrel (ages 3-5)
Jan 19 -- Dallas Children's Theater: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show (through Feb 25)
Jan 19-27 -- Plano Children's (NTPA): The Knight at Dawn Kids
Jan 19-28 -- Plano Children's (Fairview): Beauty & the Beast
Jan 20 -- Log Cabin Village: Dutch Oven Cooking
Jan 20 -- Oliver Nature Park: Stargazing with Astronomers
Jan 20-21 -- Camp Tonkawa: Survival Through the Seasons - Winter
Jan 21-23 -- Breitling Theater: Annie, Jr
Jan 23 -- Oliver Nature Park (Home School Class) Junior Physicists (ages 9-14)
Jan 24 -- Oliver Nature Park (Home School Class) Junior Physicists (ages 3-8)
Jan 24-25 -- FWSO (Young Person's Concerts): Visions of America (advance reservations only)
Jan 25-28 -- Breitling Theater: The Lion King
Jan 27 --
Camp Tonkawa: Horsemanship Day Camp
Jan 27 -- Oliver Nature Park (Skull Scene Investigation (ages 5 and up)
Jan 27 -- Oliver Nature Park (Painting at the Park) Barred Owl (ages 5 and up)
Jan 27 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Ready, Set, Draw
Jan 27 -- LLELA: Owl Prowl & Campfire
Through Jan 28 -- The DRAMASTICS: A Punk Rock Voctory Twister in Texas
Jan 30 --
Camp Tonkawa: Primitive Survival Day Camp (1) - Shelter
Jan 31-Feb 3 -- Breitling Theater: Mary Poppins, Jr

February 2018
Feb -- Perot Museum (Traveling Exhibit): Journey to Space (through May 6)
Feb 2-10 -- Plano Children's (Courtyard & NTPA): The Lion King, Jr
Through Feb 3 -- Breitling Theater: Mary Poppins, Jr
Feb 3 -- LLELA: Nature Walk
Feb 6 --
Kimbell Art Museum (Pictures & Pages): King for a Day
Feb 9 -- Registration Deadline for March 10 SAT Test
Feb 9-17 -- Plano Children's (NTPA): The Tamin' of the Shrew
Feb 10 -- Kimbell Museum (Children's Workshop): Art from the Ancient Americas: Draw in Clay
Feb 10 -- Log Cabin Village: Victorian Paper Crafting Class
Feb 10 -- LLELA: Bird Walk (ages 10 and up)
Through Feb 11 -- Amon Carter: Caught on Paper
Feb 15-16 -- FWSO (Kinderconcerts): Aesop's Fables
Feb 18 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Family Festival): Eye on Fashion
Through Feb 18 -- Amon Carter: Hugh the Hunter
Through Feb 20 -- Nasher (Exhibit): Paper Sculpture
Feb 24 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Ready, Set, Draw
Feb 24 -- Log Cabin Village: Beginning Knitting Class (3 Sessions: Feb 24, Mar 24, & May 5)
Through Feb 25--
Dallas Children's Theater: The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
Feb 28 -- Kimbell Art Museum (Kids Drop-In): Ready, Set, Draw


FEATURED ARTICLES

HEART of Texas:  Event Planner Needed!

Are You Connected Yet?
-- Anne Gebhart, HEART of Texas

Wanted: Homeschool Veterans to Help Get Families Off to a Successful Start


No Greater Joy Ministries Offering FREE Magazines to Support Groups and Home School Families

NEST Family Learning Offering Discount to Our Newsletter Readers


CALENDAR OF EVENTS

LIBRARY PROGRAMS
1.   Library Programs at North Texas Libraries -- North Texas
       Other Libraries are Welcome to Include Their Events – contact editor@heartoftex.org

      Arlington Public Library (Homeschool Thursdays at the Southeast Branch)
   
 Bedford Public Library    
     Fort Worth Public Library
     Hurst Public Library
     Lewisville Public Library
     McKinney Public Library System
     Rockwall County Library
     Tyler Public Library 

READING REWARD PROGRAMS
2.   Book It!  Reading Program -- Enrollment:  May 1 through 2nd Friday in June each year
3.   Braums Book Buddy Reading Program -- Enrollment Open
      Six Flags Read to Succeed -- Enrollment
   
CONTESTS/COMPETITIVE EVENTS
4.   BEST Robotics
5.   FIRST Lego League: WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

6.   Texas State Fish-Art Contests -- Deadline March 31 (yearly contest)
7.   National Engineers Week
8.   USA Mathematical Talent Search 
9.   Igniting Creative Energy Challenge for K-12 -
10. Texas Beef Leaders of Tomorrow Contest --
    
CIVICS/GOOD CITIZENSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
11.  City of Fort Worth Youth Advisory Board -- Fort Worth
12.  City of North Richland Hills Teen Court -- North Richland Hills
13.  Hurst-Euless-Bedford Teen Court -- Hurst-Euless-Bedford

CONGRESSIONAL OFFICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
14.  Certificates of Special Congressional Recognition for Graduating Seniors
15.  National Congressional Art Competition -- Districts 3, 4, 5, 12, 24, 26, 30

HOME SCHOOL ENRICHMENT CLASSES
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your Enrichment Program or Homeschool Classes

16.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
17.  Christian Educators Resource Center -- Rowlett
18.  Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas -- Cedar Hill/SW Dallas area

19.  E.A. Young Academy -- North Richland Hills
20.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
21.  Hurst-Euless-Bedford Homeschool Association -- HEB and surrounding areas
22.  JOY Christian Academy
-- Decatur
23.  Matthew Road Academy -- Grand Prairie
24.  Morning Glory Academy -- Hurst
25.  Tarrant County College -- High School Math Classes
26.  
THEO Home School Classes -- Plano
27.  Quo Vadis Educators -- Garland
28.  Vine Academy -- McKinney
29.  Westcliff Tutoring Physics Classes -- Southwest Ft Worth


HOME SCHOOL CLUBS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your Club

30.  GEMS Girl's Club
31.  Dallas STEAM Explorers
32.  Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering

BOOK SALES & OUR PARTNERING HOME SCHOOL BOOK STORES
33.  Library Used Book Sales in North Texas
34.  Center for Home Education -- Watauga
35.  Home Educators Resource -- Lewisville
 
NATURE CENTERS, ZOOS, & OUTDOOR PROGRAMS/CAMPS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your program
36.  Camp Tonkawa (Day Camps and Outdoor Education) -- Collinsville
37.  Dallas Arboretum -- Dallas
38.  Dallas Zoo -- Dallas
39.  Fort Worth Nature Center and Refuge Programs
40.  Fort Worth Botanic Gardens -- Fort Worth
41.  Fort Worth Japanese Gardens -- Fort Worth
42.  Fort Worth Zoo Homeschool Classes -- Fort Worth
43.  Fossil Rim
44.  Haven's Horses (Horsemanship & Outdoor Education)-- Keller
45.  Heard Museum Homeschool Classes – McKinney
46.  Heritage Farmstead Museum -- Plano
47.  Lewisville Lake Environmental Learning Area
48.  
Nash Farm -- Grapevine
49.  Oliver Nature Park -- Mansfield
50.  Ride with Pride -- Southlake
51.  River Bend Nature Center - Wichita Falls
52.  Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch -- Pilot Point
53.  Texas Discovery Gardens -- Dallas
54.  Texas Parks and Wildlife Programs -- State Parks in North Texas
        Purtis Creek State Park -- Athens

       
Cedar Hill State Park -- Cedar Hill
        Ray Roberts Lake State Park -- Denton
        Eisenhower State Park -- Denison
        Dinosaur Valley State Park -- Glen Rose
        Fort Richardson SP and HS/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway -- Jacksboro
        Lake Mineral Wells State Park and Trailway -- Mineral Wells
        Tyler State Park -- Tyler
        Lake Tawakoni State Park -- Wills Point 


PERFORMING ARTS
55.  Artisan Center Theater Performances -- Hurst
56.  Breitling Youth Theater/Acting for Children Performances -- Garland
57.  Cantare Performance Choir -- Southlake
58.  Casa Manana Children’s Playhouse Performances -- Fort Worth
59.  Cottage Theater Performances -- Watauga
60.  Dallas Children’s Theater Performances -- Dallas
61.  Dallas Summer Musicals -- Dallas
62.  Dallas Symphony Orchestra -- Dallas
63.  Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra -- Fort Worth
64.  Genesis Theater -- Plano
65.  Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra -- Dallas
66.  Park Cities Studios/The Dallas Conservatory -- Dallas
67.  Plano Children’s Theater Performances -- Plano
68.  Shine -- Plano
69.  Texas Ballet Theater Performances -- Special Pricing -- Dallas/Ft. Worth
70.  Texas Ballet Theater Dance School -- Dance Classes -- Fort Worth
71.  Home School Discount Tickets to Dallas Theater Performances
    
ART AND SCIENCE MUSEUMS
72.  Amon Carter Museum Exhibits – Fort Worth
73.  Dallas Museum of Art Exhibits -- Dallas
74.  Kimbell Art Museum Exhibit -- Fort Worth
       Admission to the museum's Permanent Collection is always FREE
75.  Perot Museum -- Dallas                             
76.  Museum of Science & History -- Fort Worth
77.  Nasher Sculpture Center -- Dallas

OMNI & 3D FILMS 
78.  Shows at the Fort Worth Omni Theater -- Ft. Worth Museum of Science & History
79.  3D Films at the Perot Museum in Dallas -- Perot Museum
  

HISTORICAL PROGRAMS
80.  Log Cabin Village -- Fort Worth
81.  Dallas Heritage Village -- Dallas
82.  Old Red Museum -- Dallas

SCIENCE EVENTS/ACTIVITIES
83.  Star Parties at Fort Worth Museum of Science and History
84.  North Texas District Science Fair for Home Schoolers

HOME SCHOOL SPORTS/PE PROGRAMS
Become a HEART of Texas Partner to list your non-profit Sport/PE program
86.  Aqua Kids -- Flower Mound & Keller
88.  Best Gymnastics -- Flower Mound
89.  Bowman Sports -- Roanoke, Prosper, Haltom City, McKinney, Flower Mound
90.  316 Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy (316BJJ) -- Rockwall
91. 
Christian Martial Arts -- Bedford
92.  Dallas Thunder Homeschool Basketball Organization
94.  DasCHE Spartans -- DeSoto
95.  Home School Athletic Association
96. 
Home School Fencing Classes -- Fencing Institute of Texas -- Farmers Branch
97.  Home School Golf Program -- Lantana Golf Club
98.  Homeschool Swim -- The Colony Aquatic Park -- The Colony
99.  Homeschool Swim & Swim Team -- Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium-- Allen

100.  Parker-Tarrant Home School 
101.  Pop-In Playtime -- Pump It Up of Grapevine -- Grapevine
102. THESA Riders Home School Association
103. Training For Confidence Martial Arts School -- Colleyville
104. Turbo Techniques -- Flower Mound 

SUPPORT GROUP ANNOUNCEMENTS
Become a HEART of Texas Support Group Partner to list your Support Group here!
105.   HEART of Texas Mentor Program
106.  
DFW Speech and Debate Club -- Coppell
107.   Denton County Christian Home School Association -- Denton

108.   Irving Home Schoolers -- Irving
109.   PEACH -- Plano

COLLEGE PREP
110.  SAT Test Dates
111.  Master the SAT Classes with Jean Burk

COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS FOR HOMESCHOOLERS
112.  Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) Scholarship

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Volunteer opportunities must indicate a direct homeschool interest to be included in this listing.
113.  Volunteer Opportunities Available for Home School Students in 21 Counties -- American Cancer Society
114.  Laugh in Another Language: Host a Foreign-Exchange Student -- INTO EdvENTURES
115.  Home School Weekday Volun-Teens Program -- Fort Worth Zoo
116.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Meals On Wheels, Tarrant County
117.  Homeschool Volunteers Needed to Deliver Meals -- Johnson & Ellis Counties
118.  Home School Volunteers Needed to Serve Meals -- Dallas -- The Stewpot
119.  Texas Global Education and Cultural Exchange Program 

OTHER EVENTS BY DATE
120. Free Organ Recitals -- Dallas
121. Reading Programs
122. City of Arlington: Animal Essay Contest


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FEATURED ARTICLE

HEART of Texas: Social Media Coordinator!

HEART of Texas is looking for volunteers to help us fill the following positions:

Social Media Coordinator
-- If you are a frequent Facebook poster, you probably already have what it takes!
We are looking for someone to post 3 to 5 times a week on our HEART of Texas Facebook page.
This would also be a great internship opportunity for a mature homeschool student looking for community service hours
or experience to place on a resume.

This position can be performed from the convenience of your home.

To apply:  send your resume and contact information to us via email

Thank you for helping us to make HEART of Texas the BEST resource for Homeschoolers in the North Texas region!


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Are You Connected Yet?
-- Anne Gebhart, Regional Director, HEART of Texas

In the 70s, Bell Telephone created a television commercial encouraging people to, "reach out and touch someone" with a phone call.  Back then, talking on the phone was one of the few ways people could "reach out" to others to say "hi" or offer a timely word of encouragement.  When news had to be spread within an organization or group quickly, leaders would often coordinate a "phone tree," where one person would call another person with a message, and that person would call the next person on the list to deliver the message, and so on.  It worked pretty well back during a time when people were home and answered their phones.

We've come a long way since the 70s in terms of technology.  The home phone (land line) is quickly growing obsolete as people gravitate toward phones they can keep in their purse or pocket.  Yesterday's phone trees have given way to today's email lists, today's cell phones do a whole lot more than call people, and we have many communication options to choose from when we wish to "reach out" to someone.

While the ways we communicate have changed since the 70s, there is something that has not changed:  the need to be connected to others.  This is especially true of new homeschool families looking for encouragement and support, but even we older homeschoolers need to remember the importance of connecting with others even if we feel like we're doing okay on our own.

The Bible instructs us in 1 Thessalonians 5:11 to "encourage each other and build one another up."
How can we do this unless we are in communication (fellowship) with others?

Hebrews 10:24-25 says that we should "encourage each other, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
We certainly have lots of communication tools at our disposal to "reach out" and encourage each other!  If you see as I do the darkness and grim events all around us, you probably recognize that we all need lots of encouragement to keep us headed in the right direction.  Is it possible that we need to be more in communication with others than those in the 70s?  While technology can be a bane in many regards, we have never had so many different ways to communicate and encourage each other as we do today -- and just in time for End-Times Encouragement!

Ever wonder how often we are to encourage each other?  Don't freak out, but this might come as a surprise.  According to Hebrews 3:13, we are to encourage others "every day, as long as it is called 'today".  Every day.  Whew! That's a tough one for me because I'm not always in the mood to encourage others.  Some days I can be pretty grumpy.  But, the beauty of today's versatile phones and computers is that they give us options that don't require us to be "up" for a phone call.  We can send a text.  We can post a message on Facebook.  We can send an email.  We can even "share" something that someone else sent.  We are no longer limited to the phone to make a timely deposit into someone else's Encouragement Account.

Encourage each other.  Even more as the Day draws near.  Every day. 

Are you connected?
If not, we can help.

The mission of HEART of Texas
is to provide leadership, information, training, and educational support to the families and support group leaders in North Texas.  We have an extensive database of homeschool groups, classes and other resources, and part of what we do in serving this region is to help families find what they need to be successful as they endeavor to teach and train their children.  

We also host a variety of regional events such as our annual HEART of Texas Regional College Night, a Regional Home School Expo, homeschool informational meetings, a Nuts & Bolts Conference where parents can learn more in-depth how to homeschool from Kindergarten through High School and Beyond, and other special events as opportunities arise.

In short, we help people make connections.


We connect homeschool families with groups, classes, resources, and information to educate their children in a way that is best for their family.

We connect support group leaders with other leaders, and with training to help them to be effective leaders.  It takes more than one organization to serve North Texas homeschoolers, and we are happy to support the leaders who serve with us.

We connect businesses and organizations with the homeschool community through events and our Partner Program.

We connect community leaders and elected officials with issues that are important to homeschoolers.


We'd love to connect with you!  Here are just a few ways to do that:

Subscribe to our free biweekly enewsletter, chock-full of events and activities going on all across the region. 

Become a member of HEART of Texas to connect with our wide array of Partner Discounts and Benefits.

Become a volunteer!  We have many opportunities for adults as well as students to volunteer with HEART of Texas while helping to serve the homeschool community in a meaningful way.

If you are a veteran homeschooler or support group leader looking for a way to support the next generation of homeschooling families, consider becoming a Mentor. 

And if you'd like to speak by phone, we can still do that too!   Just include your number when you email.


Thank you for connecting with us!  

 

Anne Gebhart, is the regional director of HEART of Texas, and co-founder with Dave, her husband of 26 years.  They have homeschooled their 6 children for 20 years.  For more information about HEART of Texas, or to subscribe to their FREE newsletter of activities, events, and field trip ideas, visit heartoftex.org.  

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FEATURED ARTICLE

Wanted: Homeschool Veterans to Help New Families Get a Successful Start

We are excited to announce that we are rolling out our new HEART of Texas Homeschool Mentor Program for homeschooling families!  The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide real-time, face-to-face, one-on-one help for new homeschool moms and dads who are starting their homeschool journey.

If you are a veteran home educator who would like the opportunity to encourage and support the next generation of home schoolers, please consider becoming a HEART Mentor.  Please email Anne regarding the program (include Mentor in subject line) and she will connect you with our Mentor Coordinator.



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FEATURED ARTICLE

No Greater Joy Ministries Offering FREE Magazines to Support Groups and Home School Families!

Mike & Debi Pearl of No Greater Joy Ministries would love to send your home school group FREE magazines!  They have set aside some extra copies just for your group to pass out at your monthly meeting.  To request copies for families in your group, please email Debi Pearl with the number of magazines you need, and where to mail them.

Or, if your family would like to get your own FREE subscription, visit their site
and sign up for their
magazine.

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FEATURED ARTICLE

NEST Family Learning Offering Special Discount to Our Readers

NEST Family Learning has partnered with HEART of Texas to offer a special discount to readers of our newsletter!

Simply visit this link 
to start shopping and begin enjoying your savings today!  Use coupon code "HEART" when placing your order.

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

1.    LIBRARY PROGRAMS AT NORTH TEXAS LIBRARIES

To find out what programs your local libraries have going on, visit the website below.  It includes links to public libraries all over Texas, so you and your kids can get in on the adventure of reading.

http://www.publiclibraries.com/texas.htm


BEDFORD PUBLIC LIBRARY

Location:  2424 Forest Ridge Drive
                Bedford, TX  76021
                817-952-2373
Contact:  Carrie Glinderman

Spring 2017-2018 Dates
TBD


TUESDAYS -- Sprouts Story Time
(for the more active child)
Time:  10 a.m.–10:20 a.m.

TUESDAYS -- Story Book Club
(for the child who is ready to be a sitter and listener)
Time: 11 a.m.11:25 a.m.

THURSDAYS -- Peapods Story Time
(for babies 2 years and under and their caregiver.)
Registration is required for this program.
For More Information:  Contact Kids Help Desk at 817-952-2373

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FORT WORTH PUBLIC LIBRARY

CENTRAL LIBRARY BRANCH
Location:      500 W. 3rd St
        817-871-7701

DIAMOND HILL/JARVIS
Location:      NE 35th Street
        817-624-7331

EAST BERRY LIBRARY
Location:      4300 E. Berry St.
        817-536-1945

EAST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location:    6301 Bridge St.
        817-871-6436

MEADOWBROOK LIBRARY
Location:      2800 Stark St.
        817-451-0916

NORTHSIDE LIBRARY
Location:    601 Park Street
        817-626-8241

NORTHWEST BRANCH
Location:  
6228 Crystal Lake Dr
        817-392-5420

RIDGLEA LIBRARY
Location:    3628 Bernie Anderson Drive
        817-737-6619

RIVERSIDE LIBRARY:
Location:    2913 Yucca Avenue
        817-838-6931

SHAMBLEE LIBRARY
Location:      959 East Rosedale St.
        817-871-6621

SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY
Location:    4001 Library Ln.
    817-782-9853

SUMMERGLEN LIBRARY
Location:      4205 Basswood Blvd.
        817-232-0478

WEDGWOOD LIBRARY
Location:      3816 Kimberly Ln.
        817-292-3368


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HURST PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location:  901 Precinct Line Road
               Hurst, TX  76053
               817-788-7300
Contact:  Click Here to email


Ages 1-3
MON/THURS:  Toddler Time
10am-3pm


Ages 3-6
TUESDAYS:  Story Time

10:45 a.m.–11:15 a.m.

Elementary Ages and Up
MONDAYS:  Chess Club
4 p.m.–5 p.m.

7th - 12th Graders
FIRST THURSDAY:  Teen Game Night
7 p.m.


To put your collection on exhibit at the Hurst Library:
  Contact the Information Specialist to fill out a form with your contact information and a description of your collection.  To be considered, personal collections must meet the Library display criteria.


Live Homework Help (online tutoring)
Hurst Public Library now offers Live Homework Help
Subjects:  math, science, social studies, and English
Time:  3 p.m. - 10 p.m.
Cost:  Free - must have a Hurst Library Card
How To Access: V
isit www.hurst.lib.tx.us
From a library computer, or from your home PC or Mac
Spanish-speaking tutors are available to help students in math and science.
All sessions are confidential and
monitored for quality and safety.
For More Information:  C
all Youth Services at 817-788-7302 or www.hurst.lib.tx.us


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LEWISVILLE PUBLIC LIBRARY
Location:  1197 W. Main Street, Lewisville, 75067
Contact:  Click Here to email  or call 972-219-3577


STEM KITS available for check-out!!
STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. Our STEM kits contain materials such as books, DVDs, and equipment for conducting experiments, with each kit focusing on a specific STEM concept. These kits are most appropriate for children in grades 2-6 and are a great way for you and your children to explore a variety of STEM topics together through fun, hands-on learning activities.
 
How do I check out a STEM kit?
STEM kits are available to anyone with a Lewisville Public Library card, and cards are free to all Texas residents.  For more information about applying for a Lewisville Public Library card, visit: http://www.cityoflewisville.com/index.aspx?page=207#librarycard
STEM kits check out for one week with no renewal and are limited to one kit per card at a time.

What kits are available?
Astronomy
Bridges
Force and Motion
Human Body
Light and Color
Math: Measurement
Microscopy
Nature
Weather
Sustainability Kits (developed in partnership with Lewisville’s Office of Sustainability):
Alternate Energy Sources and Conservation
Water Convervation
Field Observation Backpacks (developed in partnership with LLELA):
Birds Field Observation Backpack
Bugs and Butterflies Field Observation Backpack
For more information:  Lewisville Public Library’s Youth Services Desk at 972-219-3577.


2017 Weekly Classes and Events
(Thursdays) – Prime Explorations (ages 6-8)
4pm
Join us every week for S.T.E.A.M. classes that incorporate age-appropriate science, technology, engineering, arts, and math activities.  Space is limited, and a free ticket is required to attend. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the Youth Services desk beginning 30 minutes before the class start time on the day of the event.

(Last Sunday of the month) – LegoMania! (all ages)
2pm
We have lots of LEGO and DUPLO blocks for building, so bring your imagination and create whatever you like!  Each month features a different building theme.
 
(2nd Monday of month) – Family Craft Night
7pm
Bring the family for make-and-take crafts on the second Monday of each month.  All supplies are provided.
 
*Note: Children under the age of 6 must be accompanied by an adult during these events.
 

LAST MONDAY OF THE MONTH -- Maker Mondays (Grades 6-12)
4:30pm
Put your creativity to work in these maker workshops for teens (grades 6-12)!
Schedule TBA
 
THIRD THURSDAYS at 7pm -- Teen Advisory Group (Grades 6-12)
Calling all teens!  Let your voice be heard -- help create the teen experiences you would like to see at your library.  Pick up an application at the Youth Services Desk.


We look forward to seeing you at the library!


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McKINNEY PUBLIC LIBRARY SYSTEM
Location:  101 E. Hunt Street
               McKinney, TX  75069
               972-547-READ
Contact:  Click Here to email  or call 972-547-7319

Program Calender:
Click Here  


Preschool Programs: For children from birth through entering Kindergarten. Tickets will be handed out for all preschool programs beginning at 10am

STORYTIMES
Fun with Baby:
6-17 mos & caregiver
When: Tuesdays
Time: 10:15am

Hold My Hand: 18mos-3 yr & caregiver
When: Tuesdays
Time: 10:15am

On My Own: 3-5 yr olds
When: Tuesdays
Time: 11am

MUSIC & MOVEMENT
18 mos-3 yrs old: child and caregiver
When: Mondays
Time: 10:15am

3 through 5 year olds: Independent child
When: Mondays
Time: 11am

FAMILY STORY TIME
For caregiveres and children of all ages
When: Wednesdays
Time: 6:30pm


SCHOOL-AGE PROGRAMS
Details: For children in Kindergarten through 5th grade.
Animal Kingdoms: Learn about different areas of the world and the animals who live there.
Time: 3:30-4:15pm
When: Jan 15: Super Heroes; Feb 12: Artists

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ROCKWALL COUNTY LIBRARY
Location:  1215 E. Yellowjacket Lane 
               Rockwall, TX  75087
               972-204-7700
Contact:  Click Here to email 


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TYLER PUBLIC LIBRARY
(all events are free and open to the public)
Location:  201 S. College Ave
One block southwest of the square in downtown Tyler
Contact: Evelyn James – 903-593-7323 or
Click Here to email 

Preschoolers DayCare StoryShare
MONDAYS & TUESDAYS
Time:  10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Friends share stories, songs, and books with childcare groups.
Please email or call to register

ReadAloud Crowd
WEDNESDAYS &  THURSDAYS
Time:  10:30 a.m. in the Storyroom
Storyteller Evelyn James and friends share songs, stories, and simple crafts with preschoolers and their families

AfterSchool Rules!
THURSDAYS
Time:  3:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. in Taylor Auditorium
A reading incentive program for children in grades K-5
Reading games and activities PLUS! One on one reading time with middle and high school “reading buddies”


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ARLINGTON PUBLIC LIBRARY

HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS
The Southeast Branch of the Arlington Library is starting a program called: “Homeschool Thursdays”. Being held every other Thursday from 1:30pm to 3:00
and will include science projects, books, crafts, poetry and more.
For More Information: Contact Here

 
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2.  BOOK IT! READING PROGRAM


Who Can Participate:
  Children in grades K-6.

The Book It! Reading Program is sponsored by Pizza Hut and runs from October 1 through March 31 each school year. It is available for children in grades kindergarten through sixth grade.

The reading program allows the children to earn free personal pan pizzas for meeting their reading goals.

Important Note:  Support groups may not register families for the program.  Each home school family will need to enroll individually to be able to participate, for their children in grades K-6th grade.  They must not be attending another educational facility.

For Detailed Program Information: Click Here

To Enroll Your Homeschool: Click Here  

Book It! Hotline:  1-800-426-6548
Hotline hours:  9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. CST (Monday through Friday)


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3.  BRAUMS BOOK BUDDY PROGRAM

The Braum's Book Buddy program gives children the opportunity to read for delicious prizes from Braum's!  This program is open to home school families!

Who Can Participate: Children in 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.
School must be located within 30 miles of a Braum’s Ice Cream and Dairy Store.  
Participation is on a first come, first serve basis.
Once supplies run out, we cannot accept any more schools.

Program Runs:
  October through end of school year.

Reward:  Each child can earn up to six Braum's treats throughout the year including Single Dip Sundaes, Single Dip Ice Cream Cones and more! The best part...it costs nothing to participate in Braum's Book Buddy reading program. We're happy to offer this program to elementary schools and home schools absolutely free! At Braum's, we want to promote a positive attitude in children for a lifetime love of reading.

How does Book Buddy work?
Teachers distribute Braum's Book Buddy booklets to their students and then monitor book reading by placing a Book Buddy sticker in the student's booklet for each book read. When a student has read six books, the teacher rewards the student with a coupon for a free treat from Braum's!

To Enroll:  Click Here
   
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SIX FLAGS READ TO SUCCEED

Read to Succeed is an exciting program that encourages students in grades K through 6 to read for fun. Students who complete six hours of recreational reading earn free tickets to Six Flags! The program is available to teachers and schools at no cost to participate, and it's a great way to motivate kids to read.
 
To register for Read To Succeed for the 2015-2016 school year, please click the Registration link below.  Even if you participated last year, you will need to register again for the new school year. Click here to register.

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4.  BEST ROBOTICS 
     

BEST is a non-profit, volunteer organization whose mission is to inspire students to pursue careers in engineering, science, and technology through participation in a sports-like, science- and engineering-based robotics competition.

Get a glimpse of the teaser video for this year's competition:  Click Here


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5.  FIRST LEGO LEAGUE:  2017 FLL WORLD CLASS CHALLENGE

Challenge Release: Click here for more information about the 2016 FLL WORLD CLASS Challenge

If you are interested in coaching or being involved next year:
visit the website to learn more.


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6.  TEXAS STATE FISH-ART CONTEST

ENTRIES DUE MARCH 31 (ongoing annual contest)

The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center is the official host for the Texas State-Fish Art Contest sponsored by Wildlife Forever. All Texas entries in the annual contest are to be sent to TFFC for judging. Winning Texas entries will be forwarded to Wildlife Forever to compete for national best of show and art of conservation stamp honors.

About the Contest:  The State-Fish Art Contest is part of a conservation education program designed to spark the imaginations of students while providing valuable lessons about fish and the importance of conserving Texas' aquatic resources. We also offer you the choice to use our free lesson plan.

Who Can Participate:  All Texas students in grades K through 12.  Four winners from each state will be selected, one winner per grade group (K-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12), for a total of 200 winners nationwide.

Prizes:  All contestants will receive a certificate of participation. Four winners from each state will be selected, one winner per grade group (K-3, 4-6, 7-9, 10-12), for a total of 200 winners nationwide. Participants will compete within their own state and grade category regardless of species submitted. Winning designs will be displayed at the Wildlife Forever State-Fish Art Expo in the summer following the contest deadline. All winning designs will be displayed on the State-Fish Art website.  

The Art of Conservation Stamp Award:  Each year Wildlife Forever will select one design (based on specific criteria) from all the entries for an attractive fish stamp.

How to Enter:  Students must create an illustration of the Texas state fish or one of the other state fishes (see list of official fish) and write a composition on its behavior, habitat and conservation. Texas students are encouraged, but not required, to depict the Texas state fish, the Guadalupe bass. Texas entries are judged only against other Texas entries no matter what fish is depicted.

For Rules, Prizes and Other Details:  Click Here

For More Information:
Click Here



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7.  NORTH TEXAS REGIONAL NATIONAL ENGINEERS WEEK FUTURE CITY COMPETITION FOR 6-8TH GRADERS

The North Texas Regional Competition is open to all public, private, parochial and home school 6th, 7th and 8th grade classes, as well as approved youth groups (the only limitation is that teams must be willing to make the trip to Arlington to present their designs).

Registration is by school/organization. Schools may have more than one team competing.
 
Program Timeline:  Click Here
Program Details: 
Click Here

Through the program, students will:
    * Work as a team under the guidance of a teacher and a technical professional,
    * Use a popular award-winning computer game, SimCity, to design a logical model of a future city,
    * Realize their design with a physical scale model built with recycled materials,
    * Research and write an essay on an assigned engineering topic,
    * Communicate their design to a panel of judges in a public presentation, and
    * See firsthand how engineers turn ideas into reality.



For More Information:  Click Here to send email or visit http://www.dfwfuturecity.org


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8.  USA MATHEMATICAL TALENT SEARCH

The USA Mathematical Talent Search (USAMTS) is a FREE mathematics competition open to all United States middle and high school students.

The USAMTS allows students a full month to work out their solutions. Carefully written justifications are required for each problem. The problems range in difficulty from being within the reach of most high school students to challenging the best students in the nation. Students may use any materials - books, calculators, computers - but all the work must be their own. The USAMTS is run on the honor system - it is an individual competition, whose competitive role is very secondary. (Although we do give prizes.)

The USAMTS consists of three rounds, with each round featuring five problems. Each round of problems is published at least four weeks before solutions are due.

Student solutions to the USAMTS problems are graded by mathematicians and comments are returned to the students. Our goal is to help all students: develop problem solving skills, improve their technical writing abilities, and mature mathematically.  We wish to foster not only insight, ingenuity and creativity, but also the virtue of perseverance, which is equally essential in scientific endeavors.

The USAMTS is one of the ways to enter the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad team, which participates in the International Mathematical Olympiad. The USAMTS score necessary to qualify for the American Invitational Mathematics Examination (AIME) is set by the American Mathematics Competitions (which run the AIME) and varies from year to year. Students who score well on the USAMTS after the first three rounds are invited to take the AIME, the second step in the process of selecting the USA Mathematical Olympiad Team.  With permission, USAMTS participant's names and addresses are provided to colleges, universities, and employers for recruitment purposes.

To view Solutions for each round of the USAMTS
:  Click Here

Eligibility Requirements & Rules governing the USAMTS:  Click Here

To Register:  Click Here
(If you have already registered in a past year, you do not need to register again.)

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9. IGNITING CREATIVE ENERGY CONTEST FOR K-12

About the Challenge:  Igniting Creative Energy (ICE) is a national student contest promoting creativity and environmental stewardship. ICE is unique in the realm of student contests due to a commitment to allowing rather than restricting. Entries in the contest range from poetry, videos, essays, 3D models, games to anything else a student may be able to imagine and create.

To Learn More:  Click Here


Awards and Other Details:  Click Here


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10. TEXAS BEEF LEADERS OF TOMORROW CONTEST

Who Can Participate:
Any student, aged 17-20 (not over 20 by Sept 1 of the contest year), who is enthusiastic about the beef industry is eligible to compete. The four individuals with the highest combined scores are selected to join the team.
To be eligible to compete, contestants must complete the following:
1) One Media Interview: local, state, or national print, radio or television media
2) One Consumer Promotion: such as in-store demonstrations and health fairs
3) One Youth Presentation: made to elementary age youth. If it is not possible to make the presentation in the classroom, after school programs or youth organizations such as 4-H, YMCA or scouts groups may be used.

For Contest Information, Rules & Forms:  Click Here

Contest hosted by Texas CattleWomen and sponsored by the Beef Checkoff


Awards: The top four winners of the TBLT contest will be awarded a $2,000 scholarship. In addition, the winners receive industry and media training, travel opportunities across Texas, invaluable experience and exposure in the beef industry. The high point winner will represent Texas in the National Beef Ambassador Competition which affords more opportunities for prizes and scholarships. Expenses to the National Beef Ambassador Competition will be funded by the Texas Beef Checkoff.

Contestants compete in four categories:
1) Media Interview – The contestant will participate in a mock media interview. The interviewer will have pre-determined questions to ask each contestant with the option to ask follow-up questions in order to extrapolate additional knowledge or clarify a point. A panel of judges will observe the interaction for: knowledge, articulation, poise and the contestant’s ability to “Tell the Beef Production Story” and present the industry in a positive light. Scoring will be done by the judges only. The contestants should be well versed in all areas of beef production and the beef industry relating to consumers. Questions will be taken from the website www.explorebeef.org; however, special attention should be paid to all current industry issues.

2) Consumer Promotion – A mock consumer promotion event will be set up for the contestants. Each contestant will be provided with a “sample” to serve as well as beef industry production and nutrition literature and recipes. Scripted “Consumers” will approach the table to take the sample. They will ask questions to test the contestant’s knowledge, capacity to perform in the field and ability to present beef in a positive light. A panel of judges will observe and score each contestant on their ability to educate the consumer and provide the consumers with the appropriate information to answer their questions.

3) Youth Presentation – On competition day contestants will submit a report to represent the presentation made to youth. The report must contain the following items:
1. A lesson plan
2. An overall written report detailing your presentation and the response of your students.
3. A Teachers Evaluation form (provided)
4. Four pictures of you presenting to students
5. Examples of any items used in presentations may be included in two additional photos.
This report will be evaluated at the competition by two judges. Contestants will not be present at the evaluation nor will they be required to make a youth presentation at the competition. Reports and all materials contained in them become the property of the Texas CattleWomen.

4) Issues Response – Contestants will be provided with a recently published news article regarding the beef industry. Each contestant will compose a brief (150 words or less) response to the article. The judges will score the contestants on their ability to respond to an industry article by thoughtfully answering questions, identifying misinformation and listing positive consumer information.
  

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11.  CITY OF FORT WORTH YOUTH ADVISORY BOARD

In recent years, there has been a growing trend to involve youth in local government.  The Fort Worth City Council believes that the voices of young people are important.  To facilitate that, the Council has approved a new Youth Advisory Board for the City of Fort Worth.  The Youth Advisory Board will advise the City Council on issues regarding the youth in the City of Fort Worth.  A brief summary of the Youth Advisory Board follows.

Who May Apply:  High school age students who are between the ages of 14-18 and who reside in Fort Worth may submit an application for consideration for appointment to the advisory board.
 
 Purpose:                
The Youth Advisory Board shall:
• act in an advisory capacity to the Fort Worth City Council;
• study youth issues important to the community;
• encourage youth to become actively involved in matters pertaining to the community; and,
• act as a source of information and education on issues important to youth.
 
Members:             
The Youth Advisory Board shall be composed of 27 members who will meet bi-monthly.  
 
Activities:           
To be determined by the Youth Advisory Board, following the direction of City Council.
 
For More Information:  Click Here to Email
Community Relations Department, School and Youth Outreach
1000 Throckmorton, Fort Worth, TX 76102
817.392.8444       817.392.7529 (fax)

For an application:  http://www.heartoftex.org/downloads/downloads.html
    

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12.  CITY OF NORTH RICHLAND HILLS TEEN COURT

Teen Court benefits both youth and community by providing an alternative method of adjudicating juvenile offenders and allowing teen volunteers to learn about the judicial system, while documenting Community Service hours.
 
Who Can Volunteer:  Full time students ages 13-18 who are in PUBLIC, PRIVATE OR HOME SCHOOLS.  

Volunteers may serve as jurors for our Teen Court sessions, or once trained, can act as a defense attorney or prosecutor in our Teen Court trials.
 
Teen Defendants are held responsible for their behavior while giving them the opportunity to participate in and become knowledgeable about the judicial system. Juvenile Offenders "pay" for their offense(s) by performing community service and participating in Teen Court. Volunteer teen attorneys present offender's cases to a jury of their peers.

Upon successful completion of the program, offender's cases are dismissed and do not appear on their permanent records. Teen Court alleviates the strain on the regular court system, besides giving juvenile offenders a second chance. The program also provides youths in the area a chance to participate in the judicial process.

Location:  North Richland Hills Teen Court
        6720 N.E. Loop 820
        North Richland Hills, Tx 76180
        817-427-6705


To Volunteer:  Click Here to email

For More Information: Click Here

You may also come to Teen Court on any night Teen Court is in session to observe, prior to signing up to be a volunteer.
    

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13.  HURST-EULESS-BEDFORD TEEN COURT

The Hurst-Euless-Bedford Teen Court is a program that allows juveniles with Class C misdemeanor offenses an alternative to the criminal justice system. Offenders' cases are presented to a jury of their peers by volunteer teen attorneys. Teen jury members assign community services sentences, and upon completion of the program the offenders' case(s) are dismissed and removed from their record.

HEB Teen Court is currently open for both ADULT AND TEEN VOLUNTEERS! Adult volunteers can serve as Jury or Master Jury Monitors. Teens (must be at least 15 years of age) can serve as clerks, bailiffs, and attorneys. Teen Court is held on various Monday evenings, usually twice a month. If you have a few hours you can spare on a Monday evening, come volunteer with HEB Teen Court.

There are many great benefits for teen volunteers such as earning community service hours for school (National Honor Society, CAS, International Baccalaureate), your college resume, and for scholarship opportunities. For more information contact Mindy Eichorst in Teen Court at the number or email below.

Location:  HEB Teen Court
        2000 Forest Ridge Drive
        Bedford, TX 76021
        817-952-2468


To Volunteer:  Click Here to email

For More Information: Click Here

You may also come to Teen Court on any night Teen Court is in session to observe, prior to signing up to be a volunteer.
    

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14.  CERTIFICATES OF SPECIAL CONGRESSIONAL RECOGNITION

District 24
Congressman Kenny Marchant, U.S. House of Representative, would like to give each graduating senior, who resides in the 24th District of Texas, a certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.
 
The certificates will be printed with the name of the senior and will be signed by the Congressman.
 
The completed certificates will then be mailed directly to the senior’s home address.
 
If interested, please call 972-556-0162 or Click Here to send an email with the name of the graduating high school senior, the date of graduation and the senior’s home address to.
  
Address:
Congressman Kenny Marchant
9901 E. Valley Ranch Parkway, Ste. 3035
Irving, Texas  75063

To find out if your Congressman has a similar program, please contact your representative:

To Locate Your Representatives:
www.fyi.legis.state.tx.us/
 

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15.  ANNUAL CONGRESSIONAL HIGH SCHOOL ART COMPETITION

"An Artistic Discovery" is the annual nationwide Congressional High School Art Competition initiated by Members of the U.S. House of Representatives.  Each Congressional District may host its own competition. Since the competition was first launched in 1982, hundreds of thousands of students have participated in over 5000 locally conducted contests.


24th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2017 ART COMPETITION
Open to all high school students living in the 24th Congressional District, including homeschoolers.

The winning student from each district will have his or her artwork displayed in the U.S. Capitol complex for one year! Additionally, the winner will be provided airfare and lodging for two to visit Washington, DC where he or she will be recognized among the other winners from across the country.
Every contestant will have his or her artwork digitally displayed on the Congressional website and receive a special certificate of recognition. A group of 5 finalist will be invited to a special ceremony where the winner will be announced.  The 4 runner-ups will receive a special consolation prize of showcasing their artwork in North Texas gallery.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:  TBA:  Stay Tuned for the 2018 competition
For More Information or to Enter: click here



26th CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT 2017 ART COMPETITION
The juried contest is open to public, private and home-schooled high school students residing and/or attending schools located in the 26th Congressional District.  Each art teacher may submit up to 5 entries with no student allowed to submit more than one entry; all works must be submitted as a group through the art teacher. 

The Grand Prize is the display of the winning student's artwork for an entire year in the U.S. Capitol. 
The First Place winner will have the opportunity to have their artwork displayed in my Lake Dallas district office for the upcoming year.
 
Qualified submissions will be posted in a virtual gallery on the website during a selected period of time.  The "Best of School" awards will be selected by the art juror and will be given to one student artist from each school; as a finalist, they will have their artwork further considered for the Grand Prize and First Place. 
 
In addition, the public will be able to vote online for their favorite pieces in a virtual gallery on my website; the artwork earning the most votes will be named the "Texas Choice" winner.  Please encourage your school's students and teachers to vote for their favorites online.  The "Texas Choice" and "Best of School" awards will be announced online and via email to art teachers. 
 
Competition finalists, their parents, teachers and school administrators will be invited to attend a reception  to view the "Best of Schools" and "Texas Choice" artwork.  All the student finalists will be honored during the reception.  The Grand Prize and First Place winners will be announced at the reception.

SUBMISSION DEADLINE:  TBA (Stay tuned for next year's competition!)
For More Information or to Enter: click here



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16.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION - WATAUGA

Center for Home Education provides, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.

Enrichment Classes
See our website for details about these and other classes, and call 817-281-2293 or visit the store to register.

Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)

Website:  http://centerforhomeeducation.com/

Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

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17.  CHRISTIAN EDUCATORS RESOURCE CENTER IN ROWLETT

Christian Educators Resource Center has a full line-up of electives for the elementary student through the high school student!

Discount:  CERC is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount on any in-stock items.  You must present your current HEART of Texas Family I.D. card to qualify for the discount.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Location:  Christian Educators Resource Center
        4501 Rowlett Rd., Suite 105
        Rowlett, TX 75088

Contact:    972-475-4138
        http://www.cerconline.org

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18.  CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ALLIANCE OF TEXAS

Enrichment Days is a fun, exciting, and educational learning group that meets six times each semester at a local church.

Classes vary each semester based on the interests of the individual teachers.  You can view a sample class schedule on our website at www.c-h-a-t.org .  The classes offered that semester will not necessarily be offered again, but this will acquaint you with the kinds of classes available. 
 
You must be a member family in the Christian Homeschool Alliance of Texas to participate.  Membership is $30 per year.  New member families can join mid-year for $15.



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19.  E.A. YOUNG ACADEMY -- North Richland Hills

E.A. Young Academy is offering summer programs and enrichment classes to home school students.

Location:
8521 Davis Blvd
N. Richland Hills, TX  76182
For More Information:  Click Here

Discount:  E.A. Young Academy is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid ID Card) a
$45 discount off each Ignite Summer program Intensive.  Members will also receive discounts off
enrichment classes as they are developed.  
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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20.  HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE ENRICHMENT CLASSES

The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.

For Class Descriptions, Fees and Other Information: Click Here

Classes Offered:
Art

Science
English
Foreign Language
Girls Gymnastics
Guitar Lessons
History
Math
Physical Education
Robotics
World View

Location:

1288 W. Main Street Suite 203
Lewisville, TX 75067
972-956-8320

Website:  http://homeeducatorsresource.com/    

Discount:  Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership
    

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21.  HURST-EULESS-BEDFORD HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

If you are looking for support, fellowship for your kids, encouragement from experienced moms who have "been there and done that," and field trips and activities to round out your homeschool, come and check us out!  We offer monthly field trips, Moms' Night Out, Activities and Family Fun for all ages.

Contact:  Click here to send an email to the group leader. 


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22.  JOY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY IN DECATUR
    
For more information on the JOY Christian Academy and the home school enrichment courses we offer, please go to www.joyca.org.


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23.  MATTHEW ROAD ACADEMY

An affordable Christian university model school, we offer academic and elective courses from Kinder to Highschool. Pick and choose courses from Art to English Composition to Algebra and more! Limited spots available in each course.

Please check out our website for more information: matthewroadacademy.org
or call the school office at 469-200-0227.


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24.  MORNING GLORY ACADEMY

Morning Glory Academy (MGA) is a classical Christian school located in the Keller area.  MGA uses a college-style schedule of classes, offering classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Students study at home according to their family's schedule the other days of the week.  


To Register:  Click Here to email
For more information:
http://www.themga.org/
Location: Morning Glory Academy -- The Mount Church: 860 Keller-Smithfield Rd. Keller, TX  76248

MGA:  Your Home . . . Our School . . . Perfect Fit.


Discount:
  HEART of Texas Members receive a discount on tuition at MGA!

See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about HEART of Texas membership:
http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership    



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25.  TARRANT COUNTY COLLEGE HIGH SCHOOL MATH CLASSES
FOR HOME SCHOOLERS


For more info contact:
Maurine Amend
mdamend@tx.rr.com
maurine.amend@tccd.edu
cell:  972-743-9179

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26.  THEO IN PLANO OFFERING CLASSES FOR HOMESCHOOLERS

Located in Plano, THEO’s 20 Christian, talented teachers—most homeschool momsoffer a myriad of classes for 6-12th grade home educated students.  Testing is also available.

Discount:  THEO is offering HEART of Texas family members with valid ID cards 20% off their regular application fee.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

For Complete List of Available Classes or More Information:  www.THEOsonline.org

Location:  1301 Custer Road, Suite 703
                Plano, TX 75075
                214-282-6936

For Questions:   Click Here to email


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27.  QUO VADIS EDUCATORS

"Serving the Home-School Community"
Classes held in Garland, TX

To Learn More:  click here to email or 972.271.0673.
For More Information:  
www.quovad2000.org

Discount:
  HEART of Texas Members (with a valid, current HEART of Texas Family ID card) receive
$5/month off tuition all year (up to 9 months per student per school year) AND Children's Theater Workshop Half-Price Tuition ($45 value, limit one discount per workshop) See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about  HEART of Texas membership:
 www.heartoftex.org


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28.  VINE ACADEMY -- McKINNEY

The Vine Academy seeks to assist home school parents by providing classes for middle and high schol students.  Classes meet once a week, with the student completing homework during the week.  All classes taught from a Christian perspective.  

For More Information:  
Click Here

Discount:  HEART of Texas Members (with a valid, current HEART of Texas Family ID card) receive $5/month off tuition all year.  See http://www.heartoftex.org/partners/ for more details.

To learn more about  HEART of Texas membership:
 www.heartoftex.org



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29.  WESTCLIFF TUTORING  - PHYSICS & CHEMISTRY CLASSES - SW FORT WORTH

2 Hours of Instruction/week
3-6 Hours of Homework/week

Location:  SW Fort Worth
Cost: $360/semester
Class Size: 8 Students
Documentation for Transfer Credit

About the Teacher:
Bachelor Degrees:
Zoology
Petroleum Engineering
Secondary Science Education
Private High School Instructor (9 yrs)

Email:  westclifftutoring@gmail.com
Website: westclifftutoring.com

Discount:  WestCliff Tutoring is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid membership card) a 5% discount on Physics & Chemistry Class Tuition.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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30.  GEMS GIRLS CLUB

Our GEMS club invites interested girls of the ages 6 - 13 to come and experience GEMS (Girls Everywhere Meeting the Savior)!  We are a mentoring ministry just for girls led by moms with a heart for guiding and training in godliness.  We meet twice a month during the school year at an Allen church, on Wednesdays from 1:30 - 3:00.   Our club meetings include large group worship time, followed by small group time in similar age groups. Our club meetings are fun and dynamic and include a variety of activities to learn about Jesus and serving others.

To Learn More About Becoming a Member of GATE GEMS Girls' Club: Email Here
To find out more about the GEMS organization: Click Here


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31.  DALLAS STEAM EXPLORERS

Dallas STEAM Explorers is a Club for students interested in careers in Science, Technology,
Engineering, Tech Art, & Math


Meetings are held the first Monday of the Month at the UTD Campus
Although we recommend that you RSVP, walk-ins are welcome. We encourage parents and/or teachers to attend with students. Participation is free and there is no membership or dues.

For More Information:  
Click Here


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32.  TEXAS ALLIANCE FOR MINORITIES IN ENGINEERING (TAME)

TAME is a science and math non-profit organization geared to create interest in STEM. Regional events take place during the winter.  State events take place in the spring.  There is no cost to families.
If you or your organization is interested in starting up a TAME club, please click here to send
an email
to the Dallas Chair.

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33.  LIBRARY & USED BOOK SALES IN NORTH TEXAS

Looking for inexpensive literature books and other resources to add to your home school library?  Library used book sales are excellent opportunities to purchase books at bargain prices. Here are a few sales that we know about in the North Texas area.
To advertise your library book sale in our newsletter, please contact us by email.

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DALLAS -- NOV 29; DEC 2
Time: Wed/Thurs: 10am-7:45pm;  Fri/Sat: 10am-5:45pm
Location: Skillman Southwestern Library
               5707 Skillman St
               214-670-6078
Books: 
15,000 books; 100% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; not 'picked over'; no buyer restrictions; .50-$3
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WICHITA FALLS -- DEC 2; JAN 6, 2018; FEB 3, 2018
Time: Mon: Noon-6pm;  Thu: 10am-2pm; Sat: Noon-5pm
Location: Wichita Falls Public Library
                  600 11th St
                940-767-0868 x248
Books: 3,000 books; .50-$2;  Half-price sale on most books 1st Sat of each month

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BRECKENRIDGE -- DEC 4; JAN 1, 2018; FEB 5, 2018; MAR 5, 2018; APRIL 2, 2018
Time: Fri: 3-6pm, Sat: 9-12pm
Location: Breckenridge Library
               209 N. Breckenridge Library
                (enter through back door)
                254-559-5505
Books:  
hardcovers $1 or 6/$5; paperbacks $3/small bag, $4 large bag (bags provided)
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KERRVILLE -- DEC 9; JAN 13, 2018; FEB 10, 2018; MAR 10, 2018; APRIL 14, 2018
Time:
10am-4pm
Location: Butt-Holdsworth Memorial Library
              505 Water St.
               830-895-0592
Books:   .50-$2.50, coffee table books $4
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GRAND PRAIRIE -- JAN 2018; APRIL
Time:  Wed/Thurs: 10am-7pm;  Sat: 9am-5pm; Sun: 1-5pm, (Closed Fri)
Location:  Grand Prairie Library
                901 Conover Dr
                972-262-8015
                (Enter thru Eastern most door from the parking lot.)
Books:   28,000 books; sorted; not 'picked over'; .25-$2; Sunday is half price day

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LONGVIEW -- MAR; ONGOING
Time:
Tues/Thurs: 10-9;  Wed/Fri/Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun 1-5pm
Location:  Longview Public Library
                222 W. Cotton St
                903-237-1350
Books:  4,000; paperbacks .25; hardcovers $1
, children's .25
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FORT WORTH  -- APRIL
Time:
Fri/Sat: 9am-4pm;  Sun: Noon-4pm
Admission:  $1per day;  Children free
Location:  Chapter II Annexes
                5318 and 5314 Trail Lake Dr
                (3 doors from Book Store)
                Wedgwood Village Shopping Center
                817-346-2255 (Friends Book Store)
Books:  Thousands" of books; includes CDs, DVDs, ct.; Most .50-$1.50; Sun $15/box (boxes provided), Credit cards accepted

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RICHARDSON -- APRIL
Time: Fri/Sat: 10am-5pm;  Sun: 2-5pm
Location: Richardson Public Library
                900 Civic Center Dr
                972-744-4350
Books: 
25,000 books; 95% donated; 60% hardcover; sorted; no buyer restrictions; paperbacks $1; hardcovers $2; children's .50-$1


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34.  CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education in Action, located in Watauga, provides the best in curriculum, classes and classical theatre.

Location:
5733 Watauga Road
Watauga TX 76148
817-281-2293
(Between 377 and Rufe Snow in Northeast Fort Worth, Texas)

Website:  http://www.centerforhomeeducation.com/   

Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount off all new and used curriculum and tickets to our student theatre performances, with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.   
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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35.  HOME EDUCATORS RESOURCE

The Home Educators Resource sells a large array of new and used books and curriculum, plus they offer classes and other resources to homeschool families.

Visit them at their Location:
401 E. Church St
Lewisville, TX 75057
972-956-8320

Website:  http://homeeducatorsresource.com/    

Discount:  Home Educators Resource is offering 10% off new and used books to HEART of Texas family members. Plus, members will still earn punches on their HER Buyer's Card.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


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36.
 CAMPS AT CAMP TONKAWA

Camp Tonkawa is an Outdoor Learning Center, where we teach nature through hands on experiences.  Located outside of Collinsville, TX, on a 35 acre tract of land certified as a wildlife refuge.

Discount:  Camp Tonkawa is offering HEART of Texas members a  10% discount for HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card.  Offer not valid in conjunction with semester discount rates for Nature Awareness Camps.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

Location:  
Camp Tonkawa Outdoor Learning Center
1036 CR 203
Collinsville, TX  76233
For Information: 940-440-8382 or Click Here to email


CAMP SCHEDULE


NOVEMBER 2017
Nov 4 -- Horsemanship Day Camp (ages 7 and up)
10am-2:30pm
Cost: 50/ person
This class is the first step in our equine offerings.  This is for all of you who wish you had a horse, or are looking for a refresher.  (For those with years of horse experience, it gives you an opportunity to meet our horses!) You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size.  You will get a chance to do some basic riding, along with lots of other hands on time with the horses.

Nov 4-5 -- Primitive Survival Skills Class 2

9:30am (Sat)-2:30pm (Sun)
Cost: $80/adult; $65/ages 13-15; $55/ages 8-12 (Children must work with parent/guardian)
This class can be taken before or after the Primitive Survival Class 1. The survival sacred order is: Shelter, Water, Fire, Food. Class 2 covers the food aspect while Class 1 covers the shelter, water and fire.
Nature's Supermarket is always open with a buffet of choices. Learning to gather and prepare wild edibles throughout the seasons is an exciting adventure, as is learning to hunt wild animals. Knowing how to prepare them into palatable meals is the next important step. This class covers Wild Edible Plants, Wild Meats, and Primitive Cooking.

For More Important Information: click here


N
ov 18-19 -- Native American Indian Camp
9:30am (Sat)-2:30pm (Sun)
Cost: $45/ages 15 and under; $60/adults
Our camp is named after the Native American Indian Tribe that lived in its immediate area, the "TONKAWAS". This camp will explore, through lots of fun activities, this particular tribe along with other plains Indians. The camp founders have always held a deep respect and honor to the Native Americans, who lived in harmony with our mother earth. How did they live for thousands of years on Turtle Island (North America), keeping it so pristine that when the Europeans came to this continent, they believed it to be uncivilized? Let us take a look at their lifestyle. Help with setting up a Tipi.
A shortened version is also offered as a day camp field trip for school classes or homeschool groups.

DECEMBER 2017
Dec 2-3 -- Outdoor Cooking
10am Sat through Sunday lunch clean-up
Cost: $65/Adults; $55/ages 15 & under (must be with parent, guardian, or safety wise scout leaders)
Everyone likes to eat and that's the theme for this week-end. Tasty meals, cooked in a variety of interesting methods. Learn how to make your next outdoor adventure a culinary treat.
    Beginning with how to build and maintain a cooking fire
    Water purification, in case you have to cook in the back country
    Introducing various camp and backpacking stoves, care and use
    Tools to stock your camp chuck box with
    Dutch Oven cooking
    Pie Iron cooking
    Easy campfire cooking methods
    Food storage, long term and at camp
    Simple primitive cooking methods
    Meals for day hikes and backpacking
    No Trace camp cooking - ie proper clean-up 
See details for Supply List and other information.

Dec 6 - Nature Awareness Day Camp - Winter
9:30am - 2:30pm (you can stay and explore the woods until 3pm)  
Cost: Monthly Semester rate  (3 camps) $45 
            One camp, preregistration rate $20
            Drop-in rate for the day $25
            Under 4 years old with a paying sibling is free. No cost for Parents.
Once a month, come for a Fun Day of Outdoor Learning about the plants and animals in your own backyard in the North Texas area.  Let your children become comfortable and knowledgeable in their own environment.
This camp has been a favorite with the children for many years, and Outdoor Education is essential for healthy development.  See details for List of Things to Bring and other information.

Dec 9-10 -- Backpacking Camp
9:30am - 2:30pm
Cost:  $45/Children 15 and under;  $60/Adults.  Group Rates Available.
   
Hazards one may encounter in nature
    Backwoods basic first aid
    Protecting your feet
    Water purification methods
    Modern Survival Kit
    Types of Equipment **to include the Go-Lite concept**
    How to distribute the weight in your pack
    Orienteering course to learn how to use a compass
    Understanding Maps
    Setting up a backpackers camp
    Meal preparations out of your pack
    Edible plant nibbles
    Food Storage
    No trace camping
See details for List of Things to Bring and Other information.


JANUARY 2018
Jan 20-21 -- Survival Through the Seasons - Winter
9:30am Sat through 2:30pm Sunday
Prerequisite:
Completed both Primitive Survival 1 and Primitive Survival 2 or Tom Brown's Standard Class.
Cost: $95/Adult per camp (includes Teens without a parent)
            or $350 total if you pay for a whole year upfront.
Family Rate:  $75/Teens 15-13 years;  $60/ages 8-12
So you’ve taken Primitive Survival Skills, learned and practiced the Survival Sacred Order and loved it. Haven’t had enough? Wanting to take it to the next level? Then this is the camp for you! In this series of camps, we will cover extended skills, which go beyond mere survival to living comfortably with nature and the Earth. These are advanced courses dealing with intense work/study, covering seasonal topics and projects.  These skills would also be useful if you just wanted to live more closely to the earth on a day to day basis, appreciating the earth and all it's bountiful gifts it has to offer. One just has to learn to "see" and then have the knowledge to use in a caretaker manner what nature provides for us all.
See details for list of things to bring and other details.

Jan 27 --
Horsemanship Day Camp (ages 7 and up)
11am-3:30pm
Cost: $50/ person
This class is the first step in our equine offerings.  This is for all of you who wish you had a horse, or are looking for a refresher.  (For those with years of horse experience, it gives you an opportunity to meet our horses!) You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size.  You will get a chance to do some basic riding, along with lots of other hands on time with the horses. 
See details for list of things to bring and other information.

Jan 30 -- Primitive Survival Day Camp (1) - Shelter
10am-3pm
Cost: One Class:  $30/children**;  $35/adults
For all 5 camps: $110 (8-12 years old), $120 (13-15 years old), $150 (16-adult).
**Parents must accompany and take the class with their children, who are not teens for safety and support in these "Life Skills"
Empower yourself and your family with the skills to Survive.  It should not be a struggle if you know your skills and have the right mind set.  We make it fun, teaching you with hands on learning, the skills that will keep you alive. 
See details for list of supplies and other information.

FEBRUARY 2018
Feb 17 --
Horsemanship Day Camp (ages 7 and up)
11am-3:30pm
Cost: $50/ person
This class is the first step in our equine offerings.  This is for all of you who wish you had a horse, or are looking for a refresher.  (For those with years of horse experience, it gives you an opportunity to meet our horses!) You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size.  You will get a chance to do some basic riding, along with lots of other hands on time with the horses.
See details for list of things to bring and other information.

Feb 18 -- Bow Drill Workshop
1pm-5pm
Cost: $45
Depending on your personal progress, you may get through earlier. Bring your lunch.  We will have a fire going so you are welcome to heat or cook over it.
This class is about teaching ever step to Fire By Friction, Bow Drill Fire Technique.  The Kit that you make will be yours to take home but more importantly you will gain the knowledge to do it yourself. Then we will teach you how to use your constructed kit, to produce an ember that will light your fire.  See details for list of things to bring and other information.

Feb 24-25 -- Outdoor Cooking
10am Sat through Sunday lunch clean-up
Cost: $65/Adults; $55/ages 15 & under (must be with parent, guardian, or safety wise scout leaders)
Everyone likes to eat and that's the theme for this week-end. Tasty meals, cooked in a variety of interesting methods. Learn how to make your next outdoor adventure a culinary treat.
    Beginning with how to build and maintain a cooking fire
    Water purification, in case you have to cook in the back country
    Introducing various camp and backpacking stoves, care and use
    Tools to stock your camp chuck box with
    Dutch Oven cooking
    Pie Iron cooking
    Easy campfire cooking methods
    Food storage, long term and at camp
    Simple primitive cooking methods
    Meals for day hikes and backpacking
    No Trace camp cooking - ie proper clean-up 
See details for Supply List and other information.


Feb 27 -- Primitive Survival Day Camp (2) - Fire
10am-3pm
Cost: One Class:  $30/children**;  $35/adults
For all 5 camps: $110 (8-12 years old), $120 (13-15 years old), $150 (16-adult).
**Parents must accompany and take the class with their children, who are not teens for safety and support in these "Life Skills"
Empower yourself and your family with the skills to Survive.  It should not be a struggle if you know your skills and have the right mind set.  We make it fun, teaching you with hands on learning, the skills that will keep you alive. 
See details for list of supplies and other information.


MARCH 2018
March 3 --
Horsemanship Day Camp (ages 7 and up)
10am-2:30pm
Cost: $50/ person
This class is the first step in our equine offerings.  This is for all of you who wish you had a horse, or are looking for a refresher.  (For those with years of horse experience, it gives you an opportunity to meet our horses!) You will get a general overview of the responsibilities of having a pet of this size.  You will get a chance to do some basic riding, along with lots of other hands on time with the horses.
See details for list of things to bring and other information.

Mar 3-4 --
Backpacking Camp
9:30am - 2:30pm
Cost:  $45/Children 15 and under;  $60/Adults.  Group Rates Available.
   
Hazards one may encounter in nature
    Backwoods basic first aid
    Protecting your feet
    Water purification methods
    Modern Survival Kit
    Types of Equipment **to include the Go-Lite concept**
    How to distribute the weight in your pack
    Orienteering course to learn how to use a compass
    Understanding Maps
    Setting up a backpackers camp
    Meal preparations out of your pack
    Edible plant nibbles
    Food Storage
    No trace camping
See details for List of Things to Bring and Other information.

Mar 10-11 --
Primitive Survival Skills Class 1
9:30am (Sat)-2:30pm (Sun)
Cost: $80/adult; $65/ages 13-15; $55/ages 8-12 (Limit one bow drill kit per family; children will be working with parent/guardian)
At any time, anywhere, things can go wrong and you might find yourself in a survival situation. You can survive 3 minutes without oxygen, 3 hours without shelter, 3 days without water, and 3 weeks without food. To stay alive, you must find or build a shelter, obtain safe drinking water, start a fire, and gather food. This class will teach you how to build a simple shelter using natural materials, start a fire without matches, and find safe drinking water, along with how to
signal for help and aid rescuers in finding you (gathering food will be taught in the Primitive Survival Skills Class 2).  See details for list of things to bring and other information.
This class is open to all who are responsible enough to handle sharp tools on their own.

Mar 17-18 -- Primitive Survival Skills Class 2
9:30am (Sat)-2:30pm (Sun)
Cost: $80/adult; $65/ages 13-15; $55/ages 8-12 (Children must work with parent/guardian)
This class can be taken before or after the Primitive Survival Class 1. The survival sacred order is: Shelter, Water, Fire, Food. Class 2 covers the food aspect while Class 1 covers the shelter, water and fire.
Nature's Supermarket is always open with a buffet of choices. Learning to gather and prepare wild edibles throughout the seasons is an exciting adventure, as is learning to hunt wild animals. Knowing how to prepare them into palatable meals is the next important step. This class covers Wild Edible Plants, Wild Meats, and Primitive Cooking.

See details for list of things to bring and other important information.


Spring Break Dates (call to schedule) --
Basic Camping Skills
Cost: $45/ages 15 and under; $60/adults
For those of you who want to camp but don't feel quite confident enough to go out on your own, this class will put you at ease in the outdoors for a camping adventure. With supervised guidance, you will easily learn how to use the equipment needed for basic camping, safe fire starting skills, and cooking. We'll make sure you not only learn outdoor skills but have fun!!
All classes must have a minimum number of registrants or they will be cancelled; bring your friends and tell everyone you know. Some classes are listed, but are not currently on the schedule for the upcoming year. If your group has an interest, we can schedule a date for you.

Mar 24-25 -- Sow What/Organic Gardening - It's Your Planet Love It!  - Leadership Journey
9:30am (Sat)-2:30pm (Sun)
Cost: $45/ all attendees
A hands-on program for the Journey you attend, from an Outdoor Nature Awareness point of view.  (Please register for the Journey that is age appropriate for you troop.) Saturday night dinner and Sunday morning breakfast, which the scouts will help to prepare. 
See details for list of items to bring and other information.
This camp is designed around the Girl Scout Leadership requirements, but open to families who want to participate. 

Mar 27 -- Primitive Survival Day Camp (3) - Water and Cordage
10am-3pm
Cost: One Class:  $30/children**;  $35/adults
For all 5 camps: $110 (8-12 years old), $120 (13-15 years old), $150 (16-adult).
**Parents must accompany and take the class with their children, who are not teens for safety and support in these "Life Skills"
Empower yourself and your family with the skills to Survive.  It should not be a struggle if you know your skills and have the right mind set.  We make it fun, teaching you with hands on learning, the skills that will keep you alive.  See details for list of supplies and other information.

Mar 31 - Apr 1 -- Survival Through the Seasons - Spring
9:30am Sat through 2:30pm Sunday
Prerequisite:
Completed both Primitive Survival 1 and Primitive Survival 2 or Tom Brown's Standard Class.
Cost: $95/Adult per camp (includes Teens without a parent)
            or $350 total if you pay for a whole year upfront.
Family Rate:  $75/Teens 15-13 years;  $60/ages 8-12
So you’ve taken Primitive Survival Skills, learned and practiced the Survival Sacred Order and loved it. Haven’t had enough? Wanting to take it to the next level? Then this is the camp for you! In this series of camps, we will cover extended skills, which go beyond mere survival to living comfortably with nature and the Earth. These are advanced courses dealing with intense work/study, covering seasonal topics and projects.  These skills would also be useful if you just wanted to live more closely to the earth on a day to day basis, appreciating the earth and all it's bountiful gifts it has to offer. One just has to learn to "see" and then have the knowledge to use in a caretaker manner what nature provides for us all. See details for list of things to bring and other details.





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37.  DALLAS ARBORETUM

No matter the time of year, the Arboretum is always in bloom. Both spring and fall feature wild bursts of color. Summer does nothing to diminish the bloom of the Arboretum plantings, which thrive on the warmth of Dallas' summer months. And, because of Dallas' temperate winter temperature, the arboretum is even blooming in the middle of winter.

Location:
8525 Garland Road
Dallas, TX  75219
214-515-6500
http://www.dallasarboretum.org  

Hours:  Open Daily 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
Open Wed evenings until 8pm through October 26
Customer Service hours:  Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm
(Closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, & New Year's Day)
Admission: 
$15 for adults (13-64)
$12 for seniors (65+)
$10 for children (ages 3-12)
Free for children ages 2 and under
Children's Adventure Garden Admission: $3 (in addition to general garden admission)
Onsite parking:                                                                
$15 per vehicle self-parking or parking garage
$8 daytime parking pass available by online purchase only                                                


DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE
Featured Discounts:  click here

TEACHERS & EDUCATORS DISCOUNT
Complimentary admission to the Main Garden and Children's Adventure Garden is available to Teachers and Educators. Present a valid educator picture ID at the ticket booth for the complimentary admission. If a picture ID is unavailable, an educators ID plus a driver’s license can be presented. Teachers and educators can purchase a Dallas Arboretum membership and receive a 10% discount for the first year with their IDs. Offer is only valid on daytime admission. Offer does not apply for paid educational programming. Parking fees apply.

GROUP DISCOUNT
Groups of 15 or more receive $2 off General Admission and have the opportunity to have one of our experienced tour guides lead your group on an educational and entertaining tour of the gardens. Guided tours include seasonal highlights and are available year-round. These tours are an additional $7 per person. For more information, please see the Group Sales page.

Rainy Day Guarantee
If the rain won’t go away you can come back another day. The Arboretum’s rainy day pass will guarantee another free entry if rain interrupts your visit. Tickets are issued at the ticket booth on the day of the occurrence only. Offer valid for a full paid general garden admission. Rainy day tickets are good any day from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. for up to three months from the original date of purchase. Rainy day passes are only good for the original type of ticket purchased.  This policy does not apply to the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden, the Cool Thursdays Concert Series or Parking.

CityPass Tickets:
Save 41% or more off admission to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, plus the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Reunion Tower Geo-Deck, and a choice between the Dallas Zoo and the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza. Valid for 9 days after first coupon has been redeemed.

EVENTS at the ARBORETUM
THROUGH NOV 22 -- Autumn at the Arboretum
THROUGH JAN 4 -- The 12 Days of Christmas
THROUGH JAN 7 -- Holiday at the Arboretum
THROUGH JAN 7 -- Holiday Tea

NOV 15 -- BOGO Wednesdays
NOV 22 -- BOGO Wednesdays
NOV 24-JAN 7 -- DeGolyer House: "The Nutcracker Suite"
NOV 29 -- BOGO Wednesdays

DEC 13 -- BOGO Wednesdays
DEC 20 -- BOGO Wednesdays
DEC 27 -- BOGO Wednesdays


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38.  DALLAS ZOO & CHILDREN'S AQUARIUM

Location:
650 South RL Thornton Fwy
Dallas, TX  75203

The Zoo is located 3 miles south of downtown Dallas, on I-35E at the Marsalis exit.

Hours of Operation:
9am-5pm daily
(Closed Christmas Day)

Admission:
Adults (12-64):
  $15 (Mar - Dec);  $5 (Jan-Feb)
Children (3-11):
 $12 (Mar-Dec); $5 (Jan-Feb)
Seniors (65+):
   $12 (Mar-Dec) ; $5 (Jan-Feb)
Children (2 and under):
FREE all year
Parking:
$8 per car

Family Zoo Adventures for Homeschool families

2018 Homeschool Day at the Dallas Zoo: APRIL 9, 2018
Time:
9am-3pm
Cost:  $10/adults (includes Backpack); $6/Ages 3 – 14;  $6/Extra Adult; FREE/Ages 2 and under
Additional Backpacks: $4
Homeschoolers and their families are invited to spend the day at the Dallas Zoo.  Fun, interactive, and educational activities are available for Kindergarten – 8th grade!
Your Homeschool Day ticket Includes:
*Admission to the Zoo
*Access to Homeschool Day activity areas available only to registered Homeschool Day participants.
*Hands-on activities and curriculum from the Dallas Zoo and other community partners.
*Homeschool Day Backpack (included with Adult Participant tickets) with activity materials and supplemental curriculum appropriate for home classroom instruction.

These Add-Ons are Also Available When You Pre-Register:
* Animal Adventures Shows at 10 a.m., 11 a.m., and 1 p.m. Tickets are $3 each for adults and youth.
* Participants can pre-purchase additional Homeschool Day Backpacks for $5 each while registering.
* Additional Backpacks and Animal Adventures Shows are available in the Add Ons category.
Registration Coming Soon!


2018 Homeschool Day at the Children's Aquarium at Fair Park: FEBRUARY 12, 2018
Cost: $4/Adult;  $4/Youth;  FREE/Ages 2 and under
A day especially for homeschooling families at our affiliated Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park! Join us for a day of learning and fun that includes hands-on activities, community partner activity booths, and Aquarium admission.
Register Coming Soon!

To Learn More:  
Click Here


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39.  FORT WORTH NATURE CENTER AND REFUGE PROGRAMS

Location:  9601 Fossil Ridge Road
                Fort Worth, TX 76135
Located on the northwest side of Fort Worth, four miles west of I-820 on Jacksboro Hwy (TX Hwy 199), just inside the city limits of Fort Worth.

Admission: $5(ages 13+); $2(ages 3-12); Under 3 free; $3(Seniors 65+)
$1 discount per person with military ID
-Active/Retired
For More Information:    817-392-7410  

Refuge Hours:  Oct-April: 8am-5pm, daily;
                       May-Sept: 7am-5pm Mon-Fri;  7am-7pm Sat-Sun
Extended Hours Beginning Sept 7 (Labor Day):  
7am - 7pm (Refuge only)
Hardwicke Interpretive Center:
9am-4:30pm daily

Monthly Programs
NOV 25 -- Snakeskin Bookmarks
1-2pm
Cost:
$5/person (with paid admission)
Meet some of our education snakes up close and make a bookmark out of real snakeskin to take home. You may find that these slithery reptiles are actually some of our most helpful wild neighbors.
Activity Number: 7831

NOV 25 -- Snakeskin Bookmarks
3pm-4pm
Cost:
$5/person (with paid admission)
Meet some of our education snakes up close and make a bookmark out of real snakeskin to take home. You may find that these slithery reptiles are actually some of our most helpful wild neighbors.
Activity Number: 7832

NOV 25 -- Nature Hike
10am-12pm
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required
Activity Number:
6007

NOV 26 -- Meet a Toad
2pm-3pm
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Most amphibians have gone into hibernation for the winter, but our education toad is awake and active. Hop on over to meet him and make your own paper jumping toad to take home.
Activity Number 7838

NOV 30 -- Nature Center After Hours
5:30pm-7pm
Cost:
$10 (with paid admission)
Take the opportunity to connect with nature in the evening hours exploring the sounds of the forest at night. The sounds of owls, crickets, and other nocturnal wildlife may create a unique sensory experience under the stars. Pre-registration required.
Activity Number: 7825

NOV 26 -- Meet a Toad
2pm-3pm
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Most amphibians have gone into hibernation for the winter, but our education toad is awake and active. Hop on over to meet him and make your own paper jumping toad to take home.

DEC 2 -- Nature Hike

10am-12pm (Act 6012)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required

DEC 2 -- Leaf Litter
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7848)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Many organisms are missed as we hike on a trail. Under the leaves, a community of interesting and
important  invertebrates exists. We will look through leaf litter and identify the tiny denizens that we uncover.
Activity Number: 7848

DEC 4 -- Early Birds
8:30am-10:30am (Act 5993)
Cost:
$5/person (with paid admission)
Birds sticking around for the winter are now settled in. Join us on a walk to find some of our winter
residents such as Golden-crowned Kinglets, Fox Sparrow and more.
Pre-registration required
.

DEC 3 -- Old Trails
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7849)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Greer Island shares three different ecosystems that provide us with a variety of plants and animals on a
1.5-mile trail.  There are many life forms found above and below ground in this habitat. Come with us as we hike one of the oldest trails on the Refuge in search of some of these inhabitants.


DEC 3 -- Full Moon Paddle
5-7:30pm (Act 6967)
Cost: 20/person (with paid admission)
December is a wonderful time to paddle with a full moon as a backdrop. Before the moon
rises, we can take advantage of clear skies and see some of the common winter constellations.
All equipment is provided
Wear shoes that can get wet. Children must be 5 years or older.
Meet at Back Gate, 8700 Shoreline Drive, 76135.

DEC 8 -- Preschool Discover Club - Metamorphosis
10:30am-11:30am (Act
5376)
Cost: $8 PER CHILD (with paid admission)/MEMBERS $5
From tadpole to frog and caterpillar to butterfly, the process of
metamorphosis is astounding. Bring your 3-5 year olds and learn about these dramatic transformations though games, crafts, and outdoor exploration.
Preregistration required

DEC 9 --
Nature Hike
10am-12pm (Act 6016)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required

DEC 9 -- Oaks & Prairies
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7853)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Along the Oak Motte Trail, you get a glimpse of remnant prairies and dense wooded areas.
Hike with us to find wildlife moving from the open grassland to pillars of trees. With the colder temperatures, wildlife like Nine-banded Armadillos may be out foraging for food.
Preregistration Required

DEC 10 -- Canoe Tour
9-11:30am (Act 7843)
Cost: $20/person (with paid admission)
As we approach winter, paddling down the river provides opportunities to see wintering
waterfowl and other birds. Join us as we search for these birds and more. All equipment is provided.
Children must be 5 years or older and accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Meet at Big River Parking Lot.
Preregistration Required

DEC 10 --
Owl Box Workshop
1pm-3pm (Act 7854)
Cost: $20 per nest box (with paid admission)
Take an in-depth look at what it takes to provide for screech owls. We will examine housing
options, discuss squirrel deterrents, and learn how to adjust food offerings depending on the seasons. Participants will make a screech owl (or kestrel) nest box to take home.
Preregistration Required


DEC 15 -- Preschool Discovery Club-Snakes
10:30am-11:30am (
Act 5377)
Cost: $8 PER CHILD (with paid admission)
Scaly snakes are an important part of our natural world and help to keep humans
healthy. Bring your 3-5 year olds to make a craft, play games, and meet one of our education snakes.
Preregistration required

DEC 16 -- Nature Hike
10am-12pm (Act 6019)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required

DEC 16 -- Leave it to Beavers
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7844)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Beavers are one of nature’s engineers on land and in water. These remarkable rodents have
an interesting role in their environment and through history. Hike along with us as we look for recent beaver activity along the banks of the West Fork of the Trinity River.

DEC 17 -- Canoe Fest
Noon-4pm (Act 5440)
Cost: $5 (with paid admission)/MEMBERS $3
After a Canoe Tour or Kayak Tour, many visitors ask about renting canoes. Here is your
opportunity. Come out and test out a canoe and enjoy the river. All equipment is provided.
Children must be 5 years or older and accompanied by a parent or guardian.
No registration required; first come, first served
Meet at Big River Parking Lot.

DEC 23 -- Nature Hike
10am-12pm (Act 6020)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required

DEC 23 -- Beginners Basket Weaving
2pm-4pm (Act 7845)
Cost: $10 per basket (with paid admission)
Early inhabitants of the Nature Center used grapevines and other natural materials
to weave beautiful and functional baskets. Make your own simple basket out of natural reed for a lovely holiday gift. This activity is suitable for both adults and children.  It is recommended that children have an adult helper. 

DEC 24 -- Animal Ambassador Keychains:
10am-11am (Act 5377)
1pm-2pm (Act 7855)
3pm-4pm (Act 7852)
Cost:
$5 per person (with paid admission)
Meet some of our live animal ambassadors up close and personal and make a
beaded keychain to remember your experience.  A different animal will be featured each session and participants may choose from different keychain designs.

DEC 28 -- Nature Center After Hours:
5:30pm-7pm
(Act 7847)
Cost: $10 (with paid admission)
In the evening hours, wildlife can be found searching for food. Walk with us around the
Boardwalk and lets see if we can find some Nine-banded Armadillos or hear some Barred Owls.
Preregistration required.

DEC 30 -- Nature Hike
10am-12pm (Act 6024)
Cost: $5/person (with paid admission)
Exploring the Nature Center introduces you to flora and fauna native to our area. Come along with a naturalist and experience the ever changing landscape full of migrating birds, galloping deer and the onset of fall color. Hikes not designed for organized groups.
Preregistration Required


DEC 30 -- Winter's Nap
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7850)
Cost:
$5 (with paid admission)
Winter is officially here!  Wildlife have various adaptations to survive the cold temperatures. Join a
naturalist for a leisurely walk and learn how insects have prepared for their seasonally dormant life.

DEC 31 -- Out With a Bang Hike
1pm-2:30pm (Act 7846)
Cost: $5(with paid admission)
It is New Year’s Eve and what better way to end the year than with a hike on the Refuge.
Join a naturalist and journey through the many habitats to learn about the wildlife.


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40.  FORT WORTH  BOTANIC GARDEN PROGRAMS

Location:  3220 Botanic Garden Blvd, Fort Worth  76107

Green Thumb Club
Little Diggers -- Age 4 by class date
Green Thumb Club Juniors -- Grades K-2
Green Thumb Club -- Grades 3-5
Details: Green Thumb Club provides children the opportunity to learn more about the natural world around them. We use the Fort Worth Botanic Garden as a living laboratory for students to explore topics such as native plant studies, pollination, tree structure, climate change, and more.
Registration required: 817-392-5534 or click to email
For more information: Click here


Little Sprouts Program
For children 18-36 months
One child per caregiver (parental supervision required)
This activity is free. 

Limited to 12 children.
Location: 
Backyard Vegetable Garden

If you plan to participate: Click to email


Family Drop-In Program (Once a month, April - November)
Come-and-go craft time for all ages, and all supplies are furnished. We meet throughout the Garden. Find out some Garden history from our Garden educator and tour the area with your family! Bring a picnic for afterwards.
6pm-7pm

Location: 
Leonard Courtyard just outside the Garden Center

If you plan to participate: Click to email
For More Info:  Click Here

Family Discovery Program (Once a month, April - November)
Program is for children ages 4 and up.
Free to the public.
Two children per caregiver please.  
No registration required.
Location:
Backyard Vegetable Garden at Ft Worth Botanic Garden

For More Info:  Click Here

PROGRAMS:


NOV 28 -- Little Sprouts: Teddy Bear Picnic
9:30am-10am
FREE Activity
Bring a teddy bear for a pretend a picnic in the Garden! We will have juice and cookies, Then we will do gardening tasks.
One child per caregiver. Space is limited to first 12 children.
No reservations required.


DEC 2 -- Fort Worth Opera Christmas Concert
2:30pm-4:30pm
Kick off the holidays with friends and family and enjoy a FREE sing-a-long concert with us this December at the Deborah Beggs Moncrief Garden Center Auditorium, Botanic Gardens of Fort Worth. Celebrate the season with the FWOpera | TCU Lesley Apprentice Artists as they perform a festive blend of classic carols, holiday songs, and opera favorites! 'Tis the season!

DEC 9 -- Holiday High Tea at FW Botanic Garden
2pm-4pm
$45/adults;  $35/Children ages 4-12
Located in the Oak Hall Ballroom, 3220 Botanic Garden Blvd. Fort Worth, TX 76107
Attire: Lace & Pearls
Space is limited

DEC 16 -- Santa's Wonderland
1pm-5pm
Tickets: $15 for adults;  $12 for children
Join us Santa and Mrs. Clause for a family fun holiday event!
This event includes: Santa, Mrs. Clause, crafts, games, story time, holiday treats and a Christmas movie!
Limit of four children per adult guardian.
Space is limitted


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41.  FORT WORTH JAPANESE GARDENS

Location:  3320 Japanese Garden Blvd, Fort Worth, TX  76107

Hours:  March-November (DST):  9am-7pm
November - March (ST):  9am-5pm
Admission:  
$5/adults;  $3/ages 4-12;  $4.50/ages 65+;  FREE/ages 3 and under
Parking is free


EVENTS

NOV 18 -- Tea Ceremony in the Japanese Garden
11:30am-12:34pm
Cost: $30/person
Take part in an authentic Japanese tea ceremony set in the Japanese Garden (will be moved to the lecture hall if the weather is bad). This monthly delight is provided by the Fort Worth Japanese Society. Participants will have a reserved seat and be able to sample the tea and treats at the end.
For more information or to reserve a seat: 817-392-5538


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42. FORT WORTH ZOO HOME SCHOOL CLASSES

Location:  1989 Colonial Park
Fort Worth, TX 76110
Hours:  Monday-Friday:  10am-5pm
            Saturday-Sunday: 10am-6pm

TBD: HOME SCHOOL DAY
Cost: $6/ages 13 and up;  $4.50/ages 3-12;  FREE/ages 2 and under. Tickets purchased at the gate the day of the event will be $7 for adults and $5.50 for children 3 to 12 years.
All home-schooled children and their families are invited to a fun-filled educational day in the wilds of the Zoo. Learn amazing facts from our zookeepers at more than 20 Wild Encounters and enjoy asking Zoo staff your best animal questions around the Zoo’s world-class exhibits!

Home School Day visitors are able to participate in zoo-wide adventures!

    Education Program - New show that is great for the whole family! Come meet us at the Outdoor Learning Theater at either of the following show times: 11 a.m., noon and 2 p.m.
    Animal Meet and Greet at the Outdoor Learning Theater at 1 p.m.
    Outside organizations such as Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, Tarrant County College, Fort Worth Nature Center, and more set up in Texas Wild! Make sure to visit their booths.
    Wild Encounter keeper chats around the zoo.
    Texas Nature Traders program in Texas Wild! Bring a nature item to trade from your backyard.
Online registration closes at 5 p.m. the day before the event.
Tickets are good for the event date only. Parking is $5 and is not included in the price of the ticket.
Tickets are nonrefundable, non-exchangeable and no rain checks will be issued.

TBD -- Summer Zoo Camps (children 3 years - 5th grade)
Mon-Fri, Half day and full day sessions.
For more information: click here

TBD -- Middle School Camps: Keepers in Training (students entering grades 6-8)
REGISTRATION OPENS APRIL 7.
For More Information: click here

SEPTEMBER 2017-MAY 2018 -- Zoo Preschool (ages 3-5)
Class meets for three hours once a week.

For More Information: click here


2017 Home School Classes (Jan - May)

Time:  9am-10:45am
Cost: $25/student
Ages 6-12
Includes snack, Interactive Lab, live animal presentation, and admission to the Zoo on class day.
Class Schedule:  See listing below for monthly class themes
To Register or For More Information:  Click Here
Location:  Fort Worth Zoo, 1989 Colonial Parkway, Fort Worth, TX 76110

Discount:  The Fort Worth Zoo is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid ID card) a free Ft. Worth drawstring backpack when they register for FIVE Zoo Home School Classes (notify the zoo and they will have your backpack when you come to class).
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Ages 6-8:
All living things need energy to live and grow. Where does the energy come from? Follow the food chain to find out! See how important each and every animal is to its ecosystem as we uncover the complexities of the food web. The 6-8 year old classes will explore a wide variety of topics, while focusing on the importance of a food chain in an ecosystem.  Food chains, life cycles, the water cycle, conservation and other fascinating topics will also be studied during this semester. Each class will include a STEM based activity.
Aug 22 -- Food Chains: Texas Wild!
Sept 5, 19 -- Food Chains: Museum
Oct 10, 24 -- Food Chains: African Savannah/World of Primates
Nov 7, 14 -- Food Chains: Asian Falls/Bird Row
Dec 5, 19: Food Chains: Great Barrier Reef and Penguins
To Register:
 Click Here

Ages 9-12:

All organisms participate in relationships with organisms of different species in their ecosystems. Some relationships benefit the organisms and are essential for both species to survive. Others are detrimental to one organism, but critical for the other organism and still essential to the interdependence of species within the ecosystem. Each class will learn about the different forms of symbiosis with grade-appropriate information including a STEM based activity.
Aug 22 -- Ecological Relationships
Sept 5, 19 -- Parasitism
Oct 10, 24 -- Commensalism
Nov 7, 14 -- Mutualism
Dec 5, 19 -- Our Role and Relationship with Nature
To Register:  
Click Here



WEEKDAY HOME SCHOOL VOLUNTEENS (ages 12-17)
This program provides local home-schooled teens the opportunity to assist our Zoo Preschool teachers. They help set up, clean up and assist students with crafts and excursions into the Zoo. Volunteens come in once a week for half of the day, either from 8:45 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. or 12:45 to 4:15 p.m. The fall session runs from September to December and the spring session runs from January to May. Applications are completed online and interviews are scheduled after the final application date. After interviewing all applicants, the Education staff will make selections. Selected Volunteens are required to attend a mandatory orientation prior to the start of the semester.

For More Information: click here


TEXAS NATURE TRADERS
Located in Texas Wild! near the wishing well, the Zoo’s newest building is the home base for many Texas-based education programs, primarily the Zoo’s latest offering, Texas Nature Traders. This formalized program encourages kids (age 3 and older) to explore the outdoors and bring to the building fossils, rocks, bones, plants and other artifacts in exchange for points. Traders can redeem points (or save them for future use) for items in the Nature Trader inventory. Texas Nature Traders operates seven days a week, opening at 11 a.m. and closing one hour before the Zoo closes. Stop by to look around, ask questions and become a nature trader!



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43.  FOSSIL RIM HOME SCHOOL CLASSES AND EVENTS


Fossil Rim is located 55 miles southwest of Fort Worth and 75 miles southwest of Dallas, near Glen Rose.
GPS address is:
2299 County Road 2008
Glen Rose, Texas, 76043
254.897.2960


HOME SCHOOL CLASSES/EVENTS
NOV 21 -- The Lorax Homeschool Class & Tour
10am-3pm
Cost: $23/person
Discover a powerful message of natural resource conservation during the homeschool class and tour "Learning From The Lorax"! This integrative program connects the story of the Lorax to an endangered Texas native, the Attwater's prairie chicken, for which Fossil Rim has an onsite breeding program. The experience is guaranteed to get students thinking about the environment, sustainability, stewardship and their role in it all.


DEC 2 -- Holiday Around the Rim Sunset Safari
4pm-8pm
$90/adult;  $55/child
Join us for our Holiday Around The Rim Sunset Safari Dinner And Tour! It includes cookies, hot chocolate, appetizers, Nature Store shopping, evening guided tour and then holiday dinner and dessert!
Reserve at 254.897.2960.

DEC 5 -- Native Insect Natural Dye
Homeschool Class & Tour
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960
Cost: $23/person
Insects are amazing and important. One Texas insect is the source of a beautiful red dye. After an overview of insects, we will find this insect in the wild, learn about it and the dye made from it. Then, we'll dye a bandana for you to keep.

DEC 11 -- Wolves!
Homeschool Class & Behind-the-Scenes Tour
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960
Cost: $28/person
The relationship between man and wolf has been a rocky one, and you will learn how that interaction has evolved over the years. Fossil Rim has Mexican gray wolves, red wolves and maned wolves. Discover the habits and history of these amazing animals and enjoy the unique opportunity of viewing our resident wolves - possibly all species!
This event is for homeschoolers ages seven and up.

JAN 2 -- Birds & Birding
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960

JAN 23 -- Wolves!
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


FEB 12 -- The Lorax
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


MAR 20 -- Robin Hood Day Camp
To register: 254.897.2960

MAR 27 -- Cheetah!
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


APR 9 -- Birds & Birding
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


APR 24 -- Nature Journaling

MAY 7 -- Attwater's Prairie Chicken
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


MAY 22 -- Fun Finding Fossils!
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


JUN 18 -- Keyhole Gardening
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


JUN 19 -- Giraffes
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


JUL 9 -- Keyhold Gardening
10am-3pm
To register: 254.897.2960


JUL 10 -- Robin Hood Day Camp


For more information about homeschool events, click here

In addition to their scheduled homeschool events, Fossil Rim offers their faculty, teachers, and curriculum for privately-scheduled events. For more information, please click here or call 254-897-2960 and ask for the Homeschool coordinator. 


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44. HAVEN'S HORSES HORSEMANSHIP & OUTDOOR EDUCATION CLASSES AT CHRIST'S HAVEN

Christ's Haven is offering homeschoolers Christian Horsemanship and Outdoor Education programs at their facility in Keller, Texas.  The classes will be held during the day, while their foster children are at school.

Location:  4150 Keller-Haslet Road
                Keller, TX  76248
For More Information:  817-925-1982 or click here to email

Discount:  Haven's Horses is offering HEART of Texas members (with a valid Family ID card) 50% off their first ride! You must show your card to be eligible for this discount!
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://heartoftex.org/resources/membership  

Christian Horsemanship
Ages 4-18

Cost:  
$25/child
Class Length:  1 hour, 15 min.
Details:  Spiritual Values are incorporated into each Horsemanship Lesson through group devotions and activities.  It's more than a basic riding lesson!  Christian Horsemanship unites children and inspires them to grow in the areas of Horsemanship Skills (grooming, saddling, feeding, groundwork, riding and horse anatomy); Spiritual and Personal Growth, and Communication Skills.

Outdoor Adventure
Ages 7-14
Cost:  
$20/class
Course Length:  
1 hour, 15 min.
Details:  
Teaches children about God's creation in an outdoor spiritual setting.  Activities include:  day hikes, fishing, flying kites, and much more!  Outdoor Adventure classes focus on: Science in the Outdoors, Servant Leadership, Self Expression, Self Reflection and Silent Retreats.


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45.  THE HEARD MUSEUM–HOMESCHOOL CLASSES
 
These Homeschool Classes will introduce your student to the Natural Sciences. Students will experience learning through classroom activities, outdoor field investigations, laboratory science, small group activities and take-home study packets.  Each course curriculum is developed by the Heard Museum's education staff who strive to recognize and meet the needs of home school families.  All curricula are based on current scientific theory.

Please note: You will need to submit a medical record form including immunization history to be able to participate in their programs.
Click here for information

For more information: Click Here to send an email
                                  972-562-5566 x237
                                                       
Location:  One Nature Place
                McKinney, TX  75069
               
www.heardmuseum.org


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46.  HERITAGE FARMSTEAD MUSEUM -- PLANO
 
The Museum Grounds are Open Year-Round (Except Mondays and Holidays)
Tuesday–Sunday 10:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
Location:      Heritage Farmstead Museum
                    1900 West 15th Street
                    Plano, TX
Discount:  Heritage Farmstead Museum is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid membership card)
$1 off the adult regular admission price (up to 4 people) and .50 cents off child's regular admission, good for either the 1:30 p.m. Historic Farrell-Wilson house tour or for the following special events: Harvest Festival, Lantern Light, Spring Festival.   

To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://heartoftex.org/resources/membership


Events:

DEC 2 -- Heritage Farmstead: Lantern Light
3pm-8pm
1929: The Great Texas Show
Admission:
$5/person
Sledding: $2/per sled;  $5/3 sled runs;  $10/bracelet for unlimited sled runs
Enjoy this Holiday Experience –Kick off the holidays at Lantern Light 2017 and enjoy the joy of the Great Snowfall of Texas during America’s troubled depression era through a myriad of activities.
Stroll the 4 acres and amidst the glow of Lantern Light and delight in wagon rides, historic demonstrations, storytelling by the North 40 Story Tellers, scrumptious treats, unique children’s crafts, and a visit with Santa Claus.  Tour the Great Depression exhibit and holiday decor in the Farrell Wilson House.  Strolling Carolers and School Choirs are scheduled throughout the event in the Historic Pole Barn presenting songs of the season.  This year Lantern Light will feature a Snow Mountain for sledding along with winter fun in the meadow.   
Register Online
or call 972-881-0140                             

DEC 8 -- Fun on the Farm:  A Visit with Santa
10:30am-12pm
Cost: $15/parent or child;  $12/Additional child;  $3/Additional Adult;  $2/Additional Cookie

Ho Ho Ho! Santa is visiting the Farmstead! Join us to hear a story, decorate cookies, ride in our wagon, and, most importantly, visit and get a picture with Santa!
Registration Required by DEC 7 to reserve a spot.
Register online or call 972-881-0140



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47.  LEWISVILLE LAKE ENVIRONMENTAL LEARNING AREA

Hours of Operation:  
Winter Hours (Nov 1-Mar 1):  Fri, Sat, & Sun:  7am-5pm

Summer Hours (Mar 2-Oct 31):  Fri, Sat, & Sun: 7am-7pm

Entrance Fees:

$5 person;  Children 5 and under FREE
Cash payments only;  Prescheduled groups can pay by check or cash.
Annual Passes:  
$30/Individual;  $60/Family

EVENTS 2017: 

December 2017
DEC 2 -- Nature Walk
10am-12pm
Cost: $5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Animal tracks, singing birds, trees with personality – we never know what we’ll find on our monthly nature walk! All ages are welcome.
Reservations not required.

DEC 9 --
Bird Walk (ages 10 and up)
7:30am–10:30am
Cost:
$5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Bird watchers of all skill levels are invited to join an expert birder to explore birding locations at LLELA.
Reservations not required. 
More information:
972.219.3550 (Mon-Fri) or 972.219.7980 (weekends)

DEC 9 -- Night Hike (ages 5 and up)
5:15pm-7:15pm
Cost: $10/person
Take a twilight stroll in nature
Join our trail guides as they lead a twilight stroll down one of LLELA's nature trails.  We may hear some bumps in the night, but have no fear....it's probably just an armadillo.  Howling coyotes, hooting owls, and other nocturnal sounds will provide an out-of-the-ordinary hiking experience. 
Registration Required by 11am the Friday before the night hike.
Registration Instructions: Click here

DEC 16 -- Christmas at the Cabin
10am-3pm
Cost:
$5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Take a trip back to an 1870s Christmas and celebrate the old-fashioned way. Enjoy a tour of the historic Minor-Porter Log Cabin, make a corn husk doll or an ornament to take home to your own Christmas tree, create a hand-dipped candle, enjoy carols, sip hot cider by the campfire, and more. Visitors are welcome to arrive at any time during the open hours and join in at their own pace.
Registration is not required.

DEC 30 -- Kids' Christmas Bird Count
9am-11am
Cost:
$5/vehicle (cash or check only)
The Christmas Bird Count is the longest-running citizen science project in the world contributing invaluable data to scientists studying bird population trends. Our kid’s version of the count gives kids ages 5 and up a taste of the real deal.  Start a new tradition this year and add your family’s contribution to the 117th Christmas Bird Count!
Registration is required and closes on December 29th at 11am
Registration Info: Click Here

DEC 30 -- Ano Nuevo
5pm-7pm
Cost: $5/person
Happy New Year! Bring the whole family to celebrate with us at LLELA! We will gather around the campfire, sip warm ponche and share our wishes for the new year. During this kid-friendly event we will eat grapes, share lentils, and write resolutions. Be sure to bring your suitcase for our mile long night hike under the full moon along the Cicada trail.
Registration is required and closes on December 29th at 11am.
Registration Info: Click Here

January 2018
JAN 1 -- First Day Hike
6pm-7pm
Cost: $1/person
Kick your New Year off right and join a nationwide movement to get outdoors! All across the nation, kids and adults will be participating in First Day Hikes, getting their hearts pumping and enjoying the beauty of our parks. Family-friendly hikes will be led by knowledgeable staff and volunteers, and each will be a little over a mile in length.
Registration is required prior to the day of the activity.
To Register: Call the PARD office at 972-219-3550

JAN 6 -- Nature Walk
10am-12pm
Cost: $5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Animal tracks, singing birds, trees with personality – we never know what we’ll find on our monthly nature walk! All ages are welcome.
Reservations not required.

JAN 13 -- Bird Walk (ages 10 and up)
7:30am–10am
Cost:
$5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Bird watchers of all skill levels are invited to join an expert birder to explore birding locations at LLELA.
Reservations not required. 
More information:
972.219.3550 (Mon-Fri) or 972.219.7980 (weekends)

JAN 27 -- Owl Prowl & Campfire
5:30pm-7:30pm
Owls hooting, armadillos rustling in the underbrush, maybe a coyote howling…we never know what we might hear on a night hike on the trails at LLELA. Join our guides as they lead a stroll down the trail, listening for owls as we go. We’ll end our hike by warming up around a campfire, where we’ll make s’mores and sip hot chocolate.
Registration required by 11am on the day before the event.
Registration Info:  Click Here

February 2018
FEB 3 -- Nature Walk
10am-12pm
Cost: $5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Animal tracks, singing birds, trees with personality – we never know what we’ll find on our monthly nature walk! All ages are welcome.
Reservations not required.

FEB 10 -- Bird Walk (ages 10 and up)
7:30am–10am
Cost:
$5/vehicle (cash or check only)
Bird watchers of all skill levels are invited to join an expert birder to explore birding locations at LLELA.
Reservations not required. 
More information:
972.219.3550 (Mon-Fri) or 972.219.7980 (weekends)



HOMESCHOOL NATURAL SCIENCE CLASSES: 
Classes are for students K-8th grade.
Time: 10am-1pm
Cost:
$12 per class, or enroll your child in four classes for $40
Details: Students in each class will participate in hands-on outdoor activities related to the day's theme. Parents may choose to attend with their students, or may drop the student off after submitting a medical release form.
Younger siblings are welcome, but must be supervised by a parent during class time.
Each student should bring a water bottle and sack lunch and wear closed-toe shoes with long pants.
Registration Required: 972-219-3930 or click here to email
Grades K-5
NOVEMBER 3: Animal Senses
Grades: 6-8
NOVEMBER 3: Be a Wildlife Manager for a Day


Discount:  HEART of Texas members (with valid ID card) receive $1 per child discount on home school science classes.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

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48.  NASH FARM -- GRAPEVINE TX

Nash Farm, circa 1859, is the oldest operating farmstead in Tarrant County. Through interpretive programs, events and exhibits, Nash Farm educates the community about the heritage and importance of the Grapevine Prairie and Grapevine’s pivotal role in the development of North Texas.

Location:  
626 Ball Street, Grapevine, TX  76051

Guests may enter Nash Farm at the following locations:
• Ball Street near the service drive
• Homestead Lane through picket fence gate in front of the farmhouse
• Homestead Lane, west side of the farm near the barn
• College Street near the Grapevine cemetery

This event is handicap accessible and concessions will be available.
For more information:  www.NashFarm.org


FIRST FRIDAYS AT THE FARM
10am-Noon
Cost: $3/person ages 3 and up
Each program has a different theme that highlights the heritage skill that you can use to enrich your life today.
Registration Required.  Space is limited.
To Register Online:  Click Here
Themes:
TBA


Nash Farm Heritage Workshops
10am-2pm
$3/person
Visit Nash Farm and experience what it's like to step into a 19th century home while learning the essential farm skills.
This open-house setting allows guests to discuss the activities with the interpreters and involvement may be encouraged when possible. Following your visit to the farmhouse, you may visit the farm grounds to complete your experience.
Registrations is required, but walk-in registration is also encouraged. Space is limited.
Themes:

TBA



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49. 
OLIVER NATURE PARK-- MANSFIELD TX

Located at the intersection of two ecoregions: the eastern Cross Timbers and the northern Blackland Prairies. The 80 acres of the park contains several different ecosystems such forests, prairies, and riparian areas.  Each section is unique in plant and animal life. Each animal and plant is adapted to a certain area of the park.  Look for other examples of these kinds of adaptations along approximately 1 mile of trails.

Park Hours: 
    Daily 5am-9pm (March-October)
    Daily 5am-6m (November-February)
Location: 1650 Matlock Road, Mansfield, Texas

Programs
DEC 6 -- Home School Nature Class: Junior Meterologist (5-8 years old)
10am-11am
Cost:
$9; $7(registered by Dec 3)
Join a naturalist for a nature related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. The naturalist will describe the plants and animals found along the trails. Learn about local ecosystems; watch how animals and plants interact; and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park.
Registration Required:
click here


DEC 12 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Meterologist (9-14 years old)
1pm-3pm
Cost:
$12; $13 (registered by Dec 8)
Registration Required: Click Here
These programs are specifically geared towards a home school audience, but all are welcome! Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. Pre-registration required. The theme for this class is Junior Meteorologist.

DEC 13 -- Little Naturalists: Winter Weather
  (ages 3-5)
10:30am-11:15am
Cost:
$9;  $7 (registered by Dec 10)
Pre-registration required: click here.
Come learn about nature through exploration. We will read, sing, create a craft, and have a hands-on exploration all about nature. The themes of all classes this winter will vary each week. The theme this week will be Winter Weather.

DEC 16 -- Winter Chemistry (ages 5 and up)
9am-10am
Cost: $9;  $7 (registered by Dec 13)
Registration Required: click here


DEC 16 -- Painting at the Park: Blue Jay (ages 5 and up)
10:30am-12pm
Cost: $32;  $27 (registered by Dec 13)
Join us for a painting class at Oliver Nature Park with an artist. You will be led in creating a master piece at this easy‐to‐follow painting class for all painting abilities. You will be guided step by step by the instructor throughout the class. All materials will be supplied. Each person wanting to paint a their own canvas must register.
Parents are required to stay with their children for this class.
Registration Required:  click here

DEC 16 -- Invasive Species (ages 16 and up)
12:30pm-1pm
Cost:
$9;  $7 (registered by Dec 13)
Plants and animals that are not native to an area can spell trouble for the ecosystem. What are some of the invasive species that are unwelcome in the DFW area? How much damage can be done by small animals like mussels and beetles? Join a naturalist at Oliver Nature Park to get answers to these questions, and learn what you can do to help keep Mansfield safe from the species invasion!
Preregistration required: click here

DEC 28 -- Painting at the Park - Winter Wonderland (ages 5 and up)
1pm-2:30pm
Cost: $32;  $27 (if registered by Dec 25)
Join us for a painting class at Oliver Nature Park. An artist will guide you step-by-step as you create your masterpiece. To view the paintings visit www.olivernaturepark.com. This class is geared towards participants ages 5 and up, with no prior experience required! All materials will be supplied. We will be painting a Winter Wonderland on this date. Parents may help younger child paint their canvas at no charge.Each person wanting to paint a their own canvas must register. Parents are required to stay with their children for this class.
Pre-registration required: click here

JAN 3 -- Little Naturalists: Constellations (ages 3-5)
10:30am-11:15am
Cost:
$9;  $7 (registered by Jan 1)
Come learn about nature through exploration. We will read, sing, create a craft, and have a hands-on exploration all about nature. The themes of all classes this winter will vary each week. The theme this class will be Cosmic Constellations.
Pre-registration required: click here

JAN 3 -- Hike with a Naturalists - Nature Exploration Hike
1pm-2:30pm
Cost:
$10;  $8 (registered by Dec 31)
Come enjoy Oliver Nature Park while hiking with a Naturalist!  Participants will learn all about the wonders of nature while hiking through the park.  Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes.  All participants over 2 years of age must pre-register for this program. Each child/family must have at least one adult attending and registered for the program.  We encourage this program for the whole family!  No pets.
Registration Required: click here

JAN 4 -- Hike with a Naturalist - National Trivia Day Hike
1pm-2:30pm
Cost:
$10;  $8 (registered by Jan 1)
January 4th is National Trivia Day! To celebrate this odd holiday, we will enjoy a hike with a naturalist at Oliver Nature Park. We will explore the park in pursuit of fun facts about wildlife, plants, geology, and more. Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable. All participants must pre-register for this program. Each child/family must have at least one adult attending and registered for the program. We encourage this program for the whole family!
Pre-registration is required: click here

JAN 5 -- Animal Science (ages 5 and up)
1pm-2pm
Cost: $9;  $7 (registered by Jan 2)
Have you ever wondered how an animals adaptions help them survive, find their food, or make their home? Join us for a class all about animals! Students will help create puzzles for our Wildlife Ambassadors to solve, test their sense of smell, and more!
Registration Required: click here

JAN 8 -- Painting at the Park - Cottontail (ages 5 and up)
1pm-2:30pm
Cost:
$32;  $27 (if registered by Jan 4)
Join us for a painting class at Oliver Nature Park. An artist will guide you step-by-step as you create your masterpiece. To view the paintings visit www.olivernaturepark.com. This class is geared towards participants ages 5 and up, with no prior experience required! All materials will be supplied. Pre-registration required. We will be painting cottontail rabbit on this date.

Pre-registration required:
click here

JAN 9 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Astronomers (9-14)
1pm-3pm
Cost:
$14;  $12 (registered by Jan 5)
These programs are specifically geared towards a home school audience, but all are welcome! Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. The theme for this class is Junior Astronomers
Registration Required:
click here

JAN 10 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Astronomers (5-8)
1pm-2pm
Cost:
$9;  $7 (registered by Jan 7)
These programs are specifically geared towards a home school audience, but all are welcome! Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. Pre-registration required.The theme for this class is Junior Astronomers.
Registration Required:
click here

JAN 13 -- Hike with a Naturalist: Night Hike
6pm-7:30pm
Cost:
$10;  $8 (registered by Jan 10)
Some of the wildlife in Mansfield are only active during the evening and night. Join a naturalist as we try to identify some of the sounds and sights of natural night life! Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. No need for a flashlight; our eyes adjust to the darkness. All participants over 2 years of age must pre- register for this program. Each child/family must have at least one adult attending and registered for the program. We encourage this program for the whole family!
Registration Required: click here

JAN 17 -- Little Naturalists: Sleepy Squirrel (3-5)
10:30am-11:15am
Cost:
$9; $7 (registered by Jan 14)
Come learn about nature through exploration. We will read, sing, create a craft, and have a hands-on exploration all about nature. The themes of all classes this winter will vary each week. The theme this class will be Sleepy Squirrel.
Pre-registration required: click here

JAN 20 -- Stargazing with Astronomers
7pm-9pm
FREE
Star light, star bright, come explore the stars tonight! We will explore the night skies with astronomers from the Fort Worth Astronomical Society. Learn about the constellations and planets as you examine the skies with high-powered telescopes.
No registration required.

JAN 23 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Physicists (9-14)
1pm-3pm
Cost: $14;  $12 (registered by Jan 19)
These programs are specifically geared towards a home school audience, but all are welcome! Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. The theme for this class is Junior Physicists. Pre-registration required. Bring some water and wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. Parents are not required to stay with their children for this Home School Class. Parents will fill out child enrollment forms on the first day of class.
Registration: click here


JAN 24 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Physicists (5-8)
1pm-2pm
Cost: $9;  $7 (registered by Jan 21)
These programs are specifically geared towards a home school audience, but all are welcome! Join a naturalist for a science-related lesson, nature walk, and guided exploration of Oliver Nature Park. Learn about local ecosystems, watch how animals and plants interact, and sneak up on a few of the natural inhabitants of the park. Themes will vary each session. The theme for this class is Junior Physicists.
Pre-registration required:
click here

JAN 27 -- Skull Scene Investigation (ages 5 and up)
9am-10am
Cost:
$9; $7 (registered by Jan 24)
Join us at Oliver Nature Park for an investigation of animal skulls and teeth. We will learn about the clues we can get from the size and shape of an animal?s skull and teeth. Then, we will be Skull Scene Investigators and examine some specimens. With our forensic knowledge, we will identify the animals that left these skulls behind. Pre-registration required: click here

JAN 27 -- Painting at the Park -- Barred Owl (5 and up)
10:30am-Noon
Cost: $32; $27 (registered by Jan 24)
Join us for a painting class at Oliver Nature Park. An artist will guide you step-by-step as you create your masterpiece. To view the paintings visit www.olivernaturepark.com. This class is geared towards participants ages 5 and up, with no prior experience required! All materials will be supplied.
We will be painting a barred owl on this date.
Pre-registration required: click here

FEB 3 -- Hike with a Naturalist - Winter Scavenger Hunt Hike
1:00pm to 2:30pm

FEB 6 -- Home School Nature Class - Bird Biology (9-14Y)
1:00pm to 3:00pm

FEB 7 -- Home School Nature Class - Bird Biology (5-8Y)
1:00pm to 2:00pm

FEB 13 -- Preschool Picassos (1-5Y)
10:30am to 11:30am

FEB 14 -- Little Naturalists - For the Birds (3-5Y)
10:30am to 11:15am

FEB 17 -- Great Backyard Bird Count
9:00am to 12:00pm

FEB 20 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Zoologists (9-14Y)
1:00pm to 3:00pm

FEB 21 -- Home School Nature Class - Junior Zoologists (5-8Y)
1:00pm to 2:00pm

FEB 22 -- Hike with a Naturalist - Walking the Dog Day Hike
5:30pm to 6:30pm

FEB 24 -- Rot in Time for Spring (16Y+)
9:00am to 10:00am

FEB 24 -- Painting at the Park - Valentine Painting (5Y+)
10:30am to 12:00pm

Feb 28 -- Little Naturalists - Animal Antics (3-5Y)
10:30am to 11:15am


For More Information: Click Here

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50.  RIDE WITH PRIDE

Ride With Pride, Inc. Horsemanship School in Southlake specializes in teaching students ages 3 and older how to care for and ride a horse safely.  Ride With Pride, Inc. has been in operation since 1980.  They offer Western & English lessons, and their instructors are certified with the Certified Horsemanship Association (CHA). 

For Enrollment Information:  Click here to send an email or 817-481-2893

Discount:  Ride with Pride is offering HEART of Texas members (with a current HEART of Texas Family ID card) a 10% discount on tuition.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


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51.  RIVER BEND NATURE CENTER - WICHITA FALLS

River Bend Nature Center
2200 3rd Street, Wichita Falls, TX  76301
riverbendnaturecenter.org

Hours:
Mon-Fri: 9am-5pm
Sat: 10am-4pm
Sun: 12pm-4pm

Closed for Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, and Independence Day

Admission:
General Admission $5.00
Seniors (62 and Older) $4.00
Military $4.00
Children ages 1 and under Free


NOV 17 - DEC 23 -- Electri-Critters: A Lighted Christmas Display
(Fridays and Saturdays through Dec 3)
6:30-8:30
$4 presale;  $5 at door;  (Kids ages 1 and under FREE)
With the flip of a switch, more than 60,000 lights on more than 150 lighted displays will glitter and sparkle, bringing the sights and sounds of the season to adults and children. Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the Butterfly Queen will make an appearance each night. After exploring the lighted grounds come on into the Candy Cane Cafe and enjoy hot chocolate and apple cider, feast on hot cookies and popcorn, and shop for holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. River Bend is stroller and wheelchair accessible.
ElectriCritters is a major fundraiser for River Bend Nature Center. Proceeds help fund education programs enjoyed by over 35,000 children and adults of our community each year. Presale tickets will be on sale at the River Bend Nature Gift Shop.




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52.  SHARKAROSA WILDLIFE RANCH

Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch sits on 126 breathtaking acres near Lake Ray Roberts in Denton County, Texas.  Our mission is to provide the North Texas community with the opportunity to experience rare and endangered exotic wildlife in a unique and personal setting. What better way to learn about conservation than by seeing it up close and hands on?

Bears Den -- Eat with the Bears
Tues-Fri: 5pm-9pm
Sat: 11am-9pm
Sun: 11am-4pm
The Bears are fed dinner each night, Tuesday through Saturday, at 6:30 p.m.
Have lunch at the Bears Den while you visit Sharkarosa on Saturday and Sunday.
No reservations required!
Bear presentations are at 11:30, 1:30 and 3:30 each Saturday and Sunday.
Wednesday Night - $9.99 All-U-Can Eat Alaskan Cod Buffet
Thursday Nights - Live Music
Friday Night - Karaoke and our $5.99 All-U-Can-eat buffet
Buy Tickets:
click here


WILD HOMESCHOOL DAY
Date: TBD
Time:
10am-5pm
Cost: $5 per attendee
Pre-registration Required!: Click Here or call: 940-686-4600

Open to the Public Days -- 2017
Saturdays and Sundays -- Mar 7 - Nov 29 (all other events require advance reservation)
Time:
  10 a.m. (last tour begins at 4)  
We recommend arriving no later than 2pm to ensure you are able to see lots of animals at the front of the ranch and are able to ride the Safari Tram.
Admission:  $12/ages 13+; $10/ages 3-12 and Seniors 65+; children 2 and under are free
Season Passes: $30/Child & Seniors 65+; $36/Adult Pass $36, $115/Family of 4 ($30 additional)
Season Passes are good for one year from date of purchase
Ticket Includes:
– Animal Presentations: Lemurs, Kangaroos, Black Bears, Cobra and more!
Safari Tram: 35 minute ride through exotic pastures to see camels, zebras, emus, endangered deer, zedonks, zorses and more!
– Small Barn Viewing: Walk around small animal barn and see a variety of animals up close in their habitats
– "Kangaroo Kourt" Marsupial Habitat & Joey Junction: Watch Kangaroos & Wallabies!!
– Kids Barrel Train Ride: Our popular 3 minute ride; adults are welcome to ride too!
– Meet and Greets with our Education Animals: Kangaroo Joeys, Camels, Lemurs, Lizards, Snakes and more! (Animals available for meet and greet vary with the season and temperature).
– Use of our two covered picnic areas for lunch: bottled water, soda & snacks are available in our gift shop. Snow Cone Shack is now open and The Bears Dens Restaurant will be open for lunch! www.bearsdentx.com
– Entry to the Petting Zoo ( feed is available at an additional $2 )


Schedule a Field Trip, Private Tour or Party:  Click here for details.
Field trips are scheduled Monday through Friday, 9:30am or 10:30am
Cost is $8 person
A minimum of $200 is required for a field trip.
A deposit of $200 is required to make a field trip reservation (this is applied towards your total ticket cost)
At the end of each field trip, our gift shop will be open with items for your group to purchase. Items are 50 cents and up. We appreciate your school allowing students to visit the gift shop as this helps keep our admission costs low.

For More Information:  Click Here
940-686-4600 (main)
940-686-3715 (fax)

For Directions:
Click Here
Please do not use MapQuest it WILL get you lost!


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53.  TEXAS DISCOVERY GARDENS

Texas Discovery Gardens is a year-round urban oasis located at historic Fair Park. The gardens showcase beautiful native and adapted plants that are grown using sustainable methods that help to protect the environment.  The first certified organic public garden in the state, Texas Discovery Gardens offers educational programs and exhibits that teach children and adults how to provide vital habitat for butterflies and other native Texas wildlife, add beauty, conserve water and restore the natural environment in urban areas.


Regular Admission & Hours:
$8/adults; $6 seniors (60+); $4 children 3-12yrs; free children under 3yrs.
Group Pricing Available for 10 or more:  Call 214-428-7476 ext 343
Each Tuesday:  Gardens are open for free (butterfly house admission is regular admission price)
Hours:  Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.  Last ticket to Butterfly House sold at 4:45 p.m.
Closed New Years Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, & Christmas Day
For More info:  214-428-7476 ext. 341 or Click Here
Location:
3601 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. in Fair Park.
Fair Park is
two miles east of downtown Dallas just south of Interstate 30.



December Programs

DEC 7-- Stories and More!
11am-12pm
Cost:  $8/ages 3-11;  $3/ages 1-3;  $8/Adults   At door: $2/child surcharge.
Ticket price includes admission to the Butterfly House and the Gardens.  
Details: Join our butterflies for story time! We make crafts, read a book, meet special friends and enjoy themed snacks.
Register Online:  Click Here

DEC 27-29 -- Winter Critters Winter Camp (K-4th Gr)
9:30am-3:30pm
Cost:
$140
A Non-Refundable 50% deposit secures your camper's spot. Below, you have the option to pay this deposit or pay the full amount. Any remaining balance will be due on the day of camp.  Are you registering your child for multiple camps? -OR- Are you registering more than one child? Use the code CAMPS10 during checkout to receive 10% off.
More Information:  click here

January Programs
JAN 3-5 -- Have an Ice Day Winter Camp (K-4th Gr)
9:30am - 3:30pm
Cost: $140
Join the EarthExplorers as we explore ice, snow, and everything cold!
A Non-Refundable 50% deposit secures your camper's spot. Below, you have the option to pay this deposit or pay the full amount. Any remaining balance will be due on the day of camp.   Are you registering your child for multiple camps? -OR- Are you registering more than one child? Use the code CAMPS10 during checkout to receive 10% off.
More Information: click here



Children's Outdoor Education Programs:
Cost:  $5/person;  $60 minimum fee per program
Availability:  Tuesday–Friday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
To Make Reservations:  214-428-7476
Gardening for Children:–introduction to gardening and seeds.  Students even plant thier own seeds to take back to the classroom. (Grades Pre-K–2)
Butterflies, Bugs & Botany:–Insects and their amazing lives help students inderstand the concepts of adaptation, habitats, and pollination.  (Grades 1-8)
Terrarium Worlds:–Your class will build a terrarium (a home for a plant) and see the water cycle, the carbon-oxygen cycle, and the nitrogen cycle in action.  (Grades 1-8)
Life in the Compost Bin:–Recycling and decomposition come alive as students see that an ecosystem is powered by a complex web of creatures and energy. (Grades 1-8)
Math in Nature:–Math is seen as a real world tool as students visit diverse garden habitats to record data, such as temperatures, time, and mesurements.  (Grades 2-8)
Careers in the Garden:–Explore the various careers that are necessasry to keep the garden beautiful and running, including landscape design and greenhouse management.  (Grades 2-8)



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54.  TEXAS PARKS AND WILDLIFE DEPARTMENT ACTIVITIES

ATHENS, TX -- Purtis Creek State Park

Location: Purtis Creek State Park, 14225 FM 316, Eustace, TX 75124
903-425-2332

Things to do:
Camping, picnicking, boating, hiking

Upcoming Events at Purtis Creek State Park:  TBA


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CEDAR HILL, TX -- Cedar Hill State Park

Location: Cedar Hill State Park, 1570 West FM 1382, Cedar Hill, TX 75104
972-291-3900

Things to Do:
Camping, Mountain Biking, Birdwatching, Picnicking, Fishing, Swimming beach, Playgrounds, Boating

Upcoming Events at Cedar Hill State Park:
NOV 24 -- Trail Off the Turkey
Hike off Thanksgiving calories!

NOV 24 -- State Park After Dark
Explore the park after dark!

NOV 25 -- Precious Prairie Hike
Hike through a Prairie Restoration site!

NOV 25 -- Nature Walk on Penn Farm
Enjoy an easy hike around the farm!

NOV 25 -- Geocaching 101
Learn a new game!

JAN 1 -- First Day "Precious Prairie" Hike
Take a hike to start the year off right!

JAN 1 -- First Day Nature Walk on Penn Farm
Tour the farm on the first day of the year!

JAN 1 -- First Day State Park After Dark
Spend the first evening of the year exploring!


For Details about these and other Events:  click here


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DENTON, TX -- Ray Roberts Lake State Park/Isle du Bios Unit

Location:  Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Isle Du Bois Unit:
100 PW 4137, Pilot Point, TX 76258
940-686-2148 x258

Johnson Branch Unit
100 PW 4153, Valley View, TX 76272
940-637-2294

Things to Do: picnicking, camping, hiking, biking, horseback riding, rollerblading, swimming on a beach area (unsupervised), boating and fishing. Johnson Branch also offers backpacking

Upcoming Events at Ray Roberts Lake State Park/Isle du Bois & Johnson Branch Unit:
No upcoming events at this time.

For Details about these and other Events: click here


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DENISON, TX -- Eisenhower State Park

Location:  Eisenhower State Park, 50 Park Road 20, Denison, TX 75020
903-465-1956

Upcoming Events at Eisenshower State Park:

NOV 24 -- Thanksgiving Recovery Hike
Feeling heavy from all the feasting? Come lighten up with this fall hike through the park. Feel the crisp air and hear the crunch of leaves under your feet.

NOV 24 -- Animal Signs Hike
Can you read the clues that wildlife leaves behind?

NOV 25 -- Fossils! Hike to the Past
Uncover ancient mysteries! Join a ranger as we search for fossils along the trail.

December 2017
DEC 16 -- Holly Jolly Cache
Santa hid some geocaches! Learn how to use GPS to find them and assemble a unique snowman ornament.

DEC 16 -- Santa Hat Hike

Wear your favorite festive gear for this walk through the winter woods.


For Information about Events: click here


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JACKSBORO, TX -- FORT RICHARDSON STATE PARK

Location: Fort Richardson State Park & Historic Site/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway, 228 State Park Road 61, Jacksboro, TX 76458
940-567-3506

Upcoming Events at Fort Richardson State Park/Lost Creek Reservoir State Trailway:


DEC 9 -- Ghosts of Christmas Past
Observe an 1870's Christmas Celebration


For Details about these and Other Events: click here


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MINERAL WELLS, TX -- Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway

Location:  Lake Mineral Wells State Park, 100 Park Road 71, Mineral Wells, TX 76067
940-328-1171

Upcoming Events at Lake Mineral Wells State Park

NOV 25 -- Cross Timbers Bird Walk
Join our guided birding walk in the park. How many species can we find?

NOV 25 -- Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.

December 2017
DEC 2 -- Bird Walk on the Trailway
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.

DEC 2 -- Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.

DEC 9 -- Cross Timbers Cowboy Christmas – Music & Poetry

DEC 16 -- Kid’s Wilderness Survival
A great program for your child’s outdoor safety and parents learn as much as the kids.

DEC 23 -- Cross Timbers Bird Walk
Join our guided birding walk in the park. How many species can we find?

DEC 23 -- Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.

DEC 30 -- Bird Walk on the Trailway
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.

DEC 30 -- Penitentiary Hollow Wild Walk
Explore beautiful sandstone formations in remote areas only accessible on this guided hike.


For Details about these and Other Events: click here


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GLEN ROSE -- Dinosaur Valley State Park

Location:  The park is located four miles west of Glen Rose. Take U.S. Highway 67 to FM 205 for four miles to Park Road 59; then go one mile to the headquarters. Use the honor box located at headquarters to pay fees after office hours.
254-897-4588 

Upcoming Events at Dinosaur Valley State Park

NOV 24 -- Painting with a Ranger
Capture the beauty of Dinosaur Valley State Park with watercolors!

NOV 24 -- Night Hike
Explore the park after dark!

NOV 26 -- Geocaching 101
High-tech treasure hunt!

NOV 26 -- Bug Picking
Catch and learn about water critters!

December 2017
DEC 1 -- Night Hike
Explore the park after dark!

DEC 2 -- Trail Work Day
Help keep our trails in great shape!

DEC 2 -- Night Hike
Explore the park after dark!

DEC 3 -- Hike to the Summit
Hike to the parks most visited overlook site.

DEC  3 -- Atlatl Demo
Prehistoric hunting!

DEC 9 -- Birding in the Park

Come join us on a morning bird walk.

DEC 9 -- Geocaching 101
High-tech treasure hunt!

DEC 9 -- Bug Picking
Catch and learn about water critters!

DEC 9 -- Star Party in the Valley

DEC 10 -- Hike to the Summit
Hike to the parks most visited overlook site.

DEC 10 -- Atlatl Demo
Prehistoric hunting!

DEC 16 -- River Cleanup Day
Volunteer to help clean the Paluxy River.

DEC 23 -- Hike to the Summit
Hike to the most visited overlook in the park.

DEC 23 -- Star Party in the Valley
Dinosaur Valley State Park


For Details about these and Other Events: click here

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TYLER, TX -- Tyler State Park

Location:  Tyler State Park, 789 Park Road 16, Tyler, TX 75706
903-597-5338

Upcoming Events at Tyler State Park:
NOV 24 -- 10th Annual "Walk Off the Bird" Bird Walk
Walk off that Thanksgiving feast!

NOV 24 -- "Lost" in the Forest Hike
Explore the definitions of what it means to be “lost in the forest.”

NOV 25 -- Lakeshore Fall Foliage Photography Hike
Bring your camera for this one.

NOV 25 -- Survival Fire

NOV 25 -- Ranger Campfire Story Time
Epic Caddo Legends

DEC 1 -- Texas Project WILD Facilitator Training
Nature Center Wildlife Management Area
MOVED - Training and certification to conduct Project WILD professional development workshops for educators.



For Details about these and Other Events: click here

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WILLS POINT, TX -- Lake Tawakoni State Park

Location:  Lake Tawakoni State Park, 10822 FM 2475, Wills Point, TX 75169

Upcoming Events at Lake Tawakoni State Park:
No upcoming events at this time.



For Details about these and Other Events:
 click here


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Free TPWD Coloring and Activity Books to Download: http://www.tpwd.state.tx.us/publications/learning/color/

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55PERFORMANCES AT ARTISAN THEATER IN HURST

Artisan Center Theater holds quality, "in the round" performances that are family-friendly, entertaining, and affordable!  The theater's full-length stage productions include musicals, comedies, and family dramas which are entertaining, as well as family-friendly. Past performances have included such classics as Godspell, Cheaper By the Dozen, The Scarlet Pimpernel, and The Sound of Music.

Their Interactive Children's Theater offers original, fun-for-all-ages productions featuring familiar characters and themes, but with fresh twists that keep it entertaining and exciting for parents as well as children. Each
production is about 30-45 minutes long, and include lots of audience participation to hold the interest of even the youngest child in the family.

Location:  420 E. Pipeline Road in Hurst, Texas (in the Bellaire Shopping Center)
To Reserve Tickets: 817-284-1200
For More Information:  Click Here

Artisan Children’s Theater Productions:
Cost: $7/Children 12 and younger;  $10/Adults
Showtimes: Shows are Tuesdays and Saturdays at 10 am; Fridays at 5pm.


THROUGH DECEMBER 23 -- A Fairy Tale Christmas Carol: The Musical
Everyone’s favorite classic holiday tale gets the fractured fairy-tale treatment with A Fairy Tale Christmas Story. You’ll never know who will show up next as the Big Bad Wolf meets his old business partner Jacob Midas, who could turn anything to gold. Midas warns Big Bad that he’ll be visited by a Fairy Godmother, Old King Cole, and the Queen of Hearts. The three make Big Bad realize what a scoundrel he’s been to the Charming family — including Prince Philip, Cinderella and their kids. This fun-filled adaptation teaches us to remember what the Christmas spirit is all about. Coming in November of 2017…A FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS CAROL THE MUSICAL!
For More Information: 
Click Here

FEB 16 - MAR 24, 2018 -- Pinkalicious the Musical
Pinkalicious can’t stop eating pink cupcakes. But when her pink indulgence turns her pink from head to toe, only Pinkalicious can figure out a way to get out of her pink predicament.

APR 6 - APR 28, 2018 -- Curious George: The Golden Meatball
Everyone's favorite mischievous monkey and his friend in the yellow hat sing and dance up a storm in this adventure-filled musical.

JUNE 9 - JULY 14, 2018 -- Disney's Peter Pan, Jr.
Fly away to Neverland with Peter and the Darling children in this adaptation of Disney’s beloved animated film.



Artisan Main Stage Productions:
Showtimes:
Mon & Tues: 7:30 p.m.;  Thurs/Fri: 7:30;  Sat: 3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.

Tickets:
Mon, Tues, Thurs: $20 Adults; $20/Students & Seniors (60+); $9/Ages 12 and under
            Fri & Sat: $22.00/Adults; $20/Students & Seniors (60+); $11/Ages 12 and under.




THROUGH DECEMBER 23 -- Annie
Annie is a Broadway musical based upon the popular Harold Gray comic strip Little Orphan Annie, with music by Charles Strouse, lyrics by Martin Charnin, and the book by Thomas Meehan.
With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City. She is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City Orphanage that is run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. With the help of the other girls in the Orphanage, Annie escapes to the wondrous world of NYC. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations... and even befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt! She finds a new home and family in billionaire, Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

For More Information: 
Click Here

JAN 5-JAN 27 -- The Marvelous Wonderettes
This smash hit follows the lives of four friends from high school to their ten-year reunion. Featuring over 30 classic ’50s and ’60s hits, The Marvelous Wonderettes will keep you smiling in this musical trip down memory lane!
For More Information: 
Click here

FEB 9 - MAR 17, 2018 -- The Wizard of Oz
The beloved tale of a Kansas farm girl who makes a miraculous journey over the rainbow, celebrating the joy and healing power of home.
For More Information:  Click here

MAR 30 - MAY 12, 2018 -- The Little Mermaid
In a magical kingdom beneath the sea, the beautiful young mermaid, Ariel, longs to leave her ocean home to live in the world above.
For More Information:  Click here

MAY 25 - JUL 7, 2018 -- Beauty and the Beast
"Be Our Guest!" The Academy Award-winning film comes to life in this romantic and beloved take on the classic fairy-tale.
For More Information:  Click here

JUL 20-AUG 18, 2018 -- West Side Story
Young lovers are caught between prejudice and warring street gangs in this groundbreaking retelling of Romeo and Juliet.
For More Information:  Click here

AUG 31 - SEPT 29, 2018 -- Oklahoma!
In the Oklahoma territory at the turn of the twentieth century, two young cowboys vie with a violent ranch hand and a traveling peddler for the hearts of the women they love.
For More Information:  Click here

OCT 12 - NOV 3, 2018 -- Cats
The all-singing, all-dancing Tony-winning musical spectacular is set on a gigantic rubbish dump which, after dark, becomes alive with cats of all types, shapes and sizes.
For More Information:  Click here

NOV 16 - DEC 22, 2018 -- Meet Me in St. Louis
In the year leading up to the 1904 St. Louis World's Fair, the four Smith daughters learn lessons of life and love, even as they prepare for a reluctant move to New York.
For More Information:  Click here


To Register for classes or for more information:  817-929-0852 or click here to email

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56.  BREITLING YOUTH THEATER

Breitling Youth Theater is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing theater opportunities to children ages 2-19 in the North Texas area.  Whether your child is attending one of our Acting Workshops, or particpating in one of our productions, they will have fun, learn, and create lasting friendships!
 
Location:  The Plaza Theater, 521 W, State St, Garland, TX  75040

Discount:
 
Breitling Youth Theater is offering $10 off their annual family registration fee of $20 to HEART of Texas members with a valid family ID card. 
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Tickets:
Row 1-5:  $12/seniors;  $15/adults; $12/students
General:  $8/seniors;  $10/adults;  $8/students
Children up to age 3 are admitted free.
Purchase Tickets: online
or 972-205-2782

JAN 21, 22, 23 -- Annie, Jr
Jan 21: 5pm & 7:30pm
Jan 22: 9:45am & 11:45am
Jan 23: 9:45am & 11:45am

With equal measures of pluck and positivity, little orphan Annie charms everyone's hearts despite a next-to-nothing start in 1930s New York City.  Annie is determined to find the parents who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of an orphanage run by the cruel Mis Hannigan.  Annie eventually foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, finding a new home and family in billionarie Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary, Grace Farrell, and a loveable mutt named Sandy.

JAN 25, 26, 27, 28 -- The Lion King, Jr
Jan 25: 9:45am & 11:45am
Jan 26: 9:45am & 11:45 am & 7pm
Jan 27: 2pm & 7pm
Jan 28: 2pm
Disney's The Lion King has captivated the imaginatino of audiences around the world and now for the first ite ever, you have the opporutnity to produce this one-of-a-kind musical in your school  The African savannah comes to life on your stage with Simba, Rafiki and an unforgettable case of characters as they jounrey from Pride Rock to the jungle and back again, in this inspiring, coming-of-age tale.

JAN 31, FEB 1, 2, 3 -- Mary Poppins
Jan 31: 9:45am & 11:45am
Feb 1: 9:45am & 11:45am
Feb 2: 7:30pm
Feb 3: 6pm
The jack-of-all-trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family.  Y ung Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep.  Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach the family members how to value each other again. Mary Poppins takes the children on many magical and memorable adventures, but Jane & Michael aren't the only ones with whom she has a profound effect.  Even grown-ups can learn a lesson or two from the nanny who advises that "Anthing can happen if you let it."

Homeschool Class Information: click here


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57.  CANTARE PERFORMANCE CHOIR IN SOUTHLAKE

Cantare is an auditioned choir available for exceptional 3rd-12th grade singers in the NE Tarrant County area. Previous experience is not necessary; however, an audition is required.

Any young person that loves to sing and is entering 3rd through 12th grade may audition. While prior musical training is not necessary, an audition is required.

Auditions

To request an audition:  Click Here to send an email.
Auditions are by appointment only -- www.cantaretexas.com
Complete the online audition registration form.
An email will be sent to you confirming the audition time.

Location:  The choir rehearses at the White's Chapel United Methodist Church in Southlake, TX.
Rehearsals are on Thursdays at the times above, with additional rehearsals leading up to performances.
For More Information:  Click Here
To request an audition:  Click Here

Discount:  Cantare Performance Choir is offering HEART of Texas members (with calid ID card) a $15 discount off annual tuition.  
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


Click Here

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58.  THEATER PERFORMANCES AT CASA MANANA CHILDREN’S PLAYHOUSE

For over 40 years, Casa Manana's Children's Playhouse has introduced children of all ages to the magic of live theatre.  This tradition continues as Casa Manana's Children's Playhouse proudly presents:


Shows
NOV 24-DEC 23 -- Santa Claus - A New Musical (sponsored by Macy's)
Back by popular demand, your family will love making this your holiday tradition. When Santa announces that he’s retiring after a thousand years, the search is on for someone to fill his boots. Expecting to be the next Father Christmas, Henchy the Elf is disappointed when Santa has someone different in mind. Will Santa and his elves get Nick ready in time to deliver the toys all over the world? Or will the discouraged Henchy successfully sabotage Christmas? With hummable tunes like “What Would Santa Do?” and “Naughty or Nice,” Santa Claus – A New Musical will put the whole family in the holiday spirit!

FEB 2-18, 2018 -- Neverland - The New Peter Pan Musical
The legend of Peter Pan, the mischievous young boy who never grows up, is a story that never grows old. Wendy, now an adult, tells her stories to her daughter Jane, recalling her adventures in Neverland, where imagination runs as wild as the lost boys. The world-premiere musical Peter, Darling: The New Peter Pan Musical renews the classic story of those lost boys, pirates and natives with original music and tales that will inspire the whole family.

MAR 23-APRIL 8, 2018 -- Madagascar - A Musical Adventure
Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto Casa’s stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime.  Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure follows all of your favorite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar.

APRIL 20-MAY 13, 2018 -- Beauty and the Beast, Jr.
Step into the enchanted world of Broadway’s modern classic, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast Jr, the story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity. This “tale as old as time” will delight audiences of all ages.

Children's Season Ticket Prices
Boxes, Sections 2 and 3:
$109/each
Sections 1,4,5, and 9: $69/each


Order Season Tickets!
Order a 5-Show Season Ticket package to secure GREAT SEATS for these fantastic, family fun productions at Casa Manana Theatre. 
For More Information:  Call 817-332-2272 or click here


Location:  3101 West Lancaster Avenue, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Box Office: 817-332-2272
Hours: Tuesday-Friday 10am-4pm;  Saturday 12pm-5pm;  Sunday and Monday Closed
Open one hour prior to every show

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59.  THE COTTAGE THEATER – CENTER FOR HOME EDUCATION

Center for Home Education’s Cottage Theater Presents:

Upcoming Performances:
2018 Season: TBA

Admission:  $10 for adults, $8 for students. Small children who sit in laps are no charge. No baby carriers or strollers, etc.
Student Night Thursday:  
$5 student tickets
To purchase tickets:
Call 817-281-2293;  Sorry, no refunds

For More Details: click here

Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas members a 20% dicount off all show tickets for HEART of Texas members (with valid ID Card).  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

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60.  DALLAS CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES

Location:    Baker Theater
                 Rosewood Center for Family Arts
                 5938 Skillman Street
Box Office:  214-740-0051
 

2017 Season:
(Please note that not all productions may be suitable for all audiences.)  


NOV 17-DEC 23 -- Frosty & Friends (Kathy Burks Theatre of Puppetry Arts)
Kathy Burks' celebrated troupe melts hearts with the endearing tale of Frosty, a lonely frozen figure hoping to make a difference during the season of giving. Frosty is sad when his elf friends Barry, Surly, and Zoe become too busy to even play in the snow! Fortunately, Frosty meets a kind snowy owl and a friendly reindeer who are more than happy to spend the cold winter days with his gentle soul. Revel in the joy of the holidays as this spirited musical comes to life.
Recommended for ages 4 and up
ASL Performance: NOV 26 - Baker Theater
4:30 PM

NOV 17-DEC 23 -- A Charlie Brown Christmas
Rediscover the true reason for the season while sharing laughs with the Peanuts Gang along the way. As a live combo fills your heart with music, merriment, and warmth, Charles Schulz's classic special makes you nostalgic for days gone by. Button up your coat, and meet us on the ice!
Recommended for ages 5 and up
ASL Performance: NOV 26 @4:30
Sensory Friendly Show: DEC @1:30pm (phone only)

DEC 28-JAN 1, 2018 -- Cirque Joyeux

'Tis the season to swing from the rafters! You're invited to ring in 2018 with thrilling daredevils, electrifying jugglers, mesmerizing acrobats, hilarious clowns, and endearing four-legged performers. Dallas' very own Lone Star Circus gets you up close and personal with circus stars from around the world at this family-friendly New Year tradition!

JAN 19-FEB 25, 2018 -- The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show
The illustrations of beloved children's author Eric Carle leap from the page to the stage in a display of color and artistry like you've never seen before in this Southwest premiere. Visit the worlds of The Artist Who Painted a Blue Horse, Mister Seahorse, The Very Lonely Firefly and of course, the star of the show - The Very Hungry Caterpillar. DCT audiences are among the first to experience the larger-than-life world of 75 loveable puppets that will delight and captivate people of all ages. An Off-Broadway and London hit!
ASL Interpreted Show: JAN 28 4:30 pm
Sensory Friendly Show: FEB 17 1:30 pm (Phone Only)

FEB 9-18, 2018 -- Screen Play (Teen Scene Players)
Fact: More than 50% of teens admit that they are addicted to their phones. They're plugged in and often tuned out. In her new play, Linda Daugherty, DCT's award-winning playwright-in-residence, explores the blurry lines between real life and life online. Cyber-bullying, explicit content and screen addiction impact the lives of a group of teens, leading to tragic consequences.
NOT suitable for children under 12

MAR 23-APR 8, 2018 -- Yana Wana's Legend of the Bluebonnet
Ten-year-old María is having trouble in school, so her mom sends her to stay with her Coahuiltecan grandmother in distant Laredo for discipline and perspective. There, María is told an ancient story of young Yana Wana who followed a revered deer to find water to save her people. Yana Wana's story exposes an amazing and unknown ancestral connection to the bluebonnet that gives María a renewed sense of self and family pride. You may have read one version in school; now we invite you to come see the legend through the eyes of Yana Wana in this world premiere. A beautiful, original play that illustrates the power of heritage and the value of one's own story - especially one as ancient as the petroglyphs of Texas.
Recommended for ages 6 and up
ASL Interpreted Show: April 8 4:30 pm
Sensory Friendly Show: March 24 1:30 pm (Phone only)

APR 21-MAY 6, 2018 -- Blue
A growing body of research speaks to the benefits of theater for the very young. BLUE is returning as part of this initiative while additional new works for these audiences continue to be developed.
Pale Blue and Inky Blue are very happy in their blueness. When a red sock enters their kitchen, Pale and Inky AND the audience are surprised by the way their world is turned upside down. This play introduces the idea of acceptance in an age-appropriate, soft-hearted theatrical experience. It is filled with fun, humor, and whimsy - and at the end of the show, you will be too!
Recommended for squirmy toddlers and their families
ASL Interpreted Show: APR 29 4:30 pm
Sensory Friendly Show: MAY 5 1:30 pm (Phone only)

MAY 4-26, 2018 -- Jungalbook
See Kipling's original 1894 coming of age tale brought to the stage, and join Mowgli in learning the moral lessons of home, betrayal, life and death, and loyalty. Mowgli lives in the jungle surrounded by panthers, bears, wolves, snakes, and tigers. They are his protectors, and he believes he is one of them. When Mowgli comes face to face with a fearsome tiger, he is forced to choose between his bond with the jungle and the reality of his humanness. This classic story of the struggle for survival and a place that feels like home will have audiences on the edge of their seats.
Recommended for ages 5 and up

JUN 15-JULY 8, 2018 -- How I Became a Pirate
Ahoy matey! It's time to sail off on a swashbuckling musical excursion with Jeremy Jacob and his new pirate friends. On board the ship, Jeremy travels to new worlds while learning the rules of pirate life, and searches for a place to bury their treasure. But it isn't long before he misses his family and yearns for someone to tuck him in at night back home. A story of adventure and finding one's own heart - a path that can't be found on any map!
Recommended for ages 4 and up
ASL Interpreted Show: July 1 4:30 pm
Sensory Friendly Show: July 7 1:30 pm (Phone only)


Sensory-Friendly Performances
General production adaptations include leaving the house lights up a few levels higher than for a standard performance and reducing the sound level. We also offer a "Quiet Room" for children who need a break.
There will be some fun and engaging activities presented before the play, so plan to come as early as one hour before the show.
Sensory Friendly Performance Tickets:  
$5 per person (regular tickets range from $13 -$28)
To Purchase Tickets: 214-740-0051



Sensory-Friendly Resources for Visiting the Dallas Children's Theater:
Click Here for a Pictorial Guide
Click Here for Parent Tip Sheet


Box Office Hours

9am to 5 p.m., Monday–Friday
On performances days: Friday evenings until 30 minutes past curtain.
Saturdays 11:00am until 30 minutes past last curtain.
Sundays 11:00am until 30 minutes past last curtain.
214-740-0051
Ticket Sales are subject to availability. No refunds or exchanges on single tickets.
Reservations are recommended and require prepayment with either
Cash, Check, Mastercard,Visa, or Amex.
Coupons and discount offers must be arranged in advance with the box office and may be suspended at any time.
Ticket Prices: Range from $13 - $28
For Ticket Information: Click Here
               

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61.  DALLAS SUMMER MUSICALS

Location: The Music Hall at Fair Park
909 1st Ave
Dallas, TX 75210   

DEC 5-10 -- White Christmas
This holiday season discover the perfect gift for everyone on your list! Start with a timeless tale of joy and goodwill, fill it with classic Irving Berlin songs, top it off with glorious dancing and lots of snow and head on over to the Music Hall at Fair Park to see IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS. Performances begin December 5 – 10 for this must-see classic in a lavish new production that the New York Times says to “put on your wish list.” IRVING BERLIN’S WHITE CHRISTMAS tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written! Give everyone the gift they’re dreaming of with this merry and bright holiday musical.


JUNE 13 - JULY 8 -- The Lion King
Giraffes strut.  Birds swoop.  Gazelles leap.  The entire Serengeti comes to life as never before.  And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING, making its triumphant return to the Music Hall at Fair Park!  More than 90 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage.

(Please note that not all productions may be suitable for all audiences.)
HEART of Texas is proud to partner with Dallas Summer Musicals!
Your family or homeschool group (group of 10 or more) can get discount rates to great family-friendly performances for the upcoming season.  
Be sure to mention HEART of Texas when you order. 

Check out the Group Discount Form on our Downloads page for details.
Special Discounts for Groups with 10 or More:  Click Here for pricing and show times
(Then scroll to the bottom of the page to see the Performance Schedule and Pricing)



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62.  DALLAS SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA PERFORMANCES

2018 Youth Concerts:
MAY 2 & 3, 2018 -- Carnegie Hall's The Orchestra Rocks
10am & 11am
Carnegie Hall's innovative Link Up curriculum delivers an exhilarating, interactive concert experience. Your students will learn how composers and musicians use rhythm to propel musical works. Includes hands-on activities and an opportunity to play along with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra on recorders or strings. Free Teacher Training will take place at the Meyerson Symphony Center on January 8 at 9:30am (Dallas ISD Professional Development credit offered), with a make-up session on January 27.  Call 214-871-4006 to reserve your spot!

Admission:  $6.50/person (payment must be received with all reservations)
Only reservations confirmed in advance can be seated.  No walk-ins.

To Order Tickets Online or by Phone:  Click Here or call 214-871-4054.  
Final headcount and payment are due three weeks before the concert.

Concert Location:  Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora Street, Dallas, TX  75201
                            (intersection of Pearl & Flora Street in the heart of the Downtown Dallas Arts District)


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63.  FORT WORTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA YOUNG PERSON'S CONCERTS

Designed to engage the interest of children of all ages, these concerts are open to school groups, home school groups and individuals.
You must have a reservation.  No walk-ins.


2018 Concerts  --
Young Person's Concerts
-- Visions of America
JAN 24 @10:30am & 12:30pm
JAN 25 @10:30am & 12:30pm
Discover how composers like Aaron Copland, George Gershwin, and John Williams interpret the American landscape and people through music with the Fort Worth Symphony and Kids Who Care. This program also features images from the Amon Carter Museum of American Art. Young Persons’ Concerts last approximately 45 minutes and are appropriate for children ages 7 through 13.
Online Tickets for Groups of 20 or less: 
JAN 24 at 12:30 PM
JAN 25 at 10:30 AM
JAN 25 at 12:30 PM
Online Tickets for Groups of more than 20: Online Reservation Form 

Kinderconcert --
Aesop's Fables
FEB 15 @10:30am & 12:30pm
FEB 16 @10:30am & 12:30pm
Learn about the important lessons fables can teach us with the Fort Worth Symphony and Kids Who Care.  We’ll use music to tell three of Aesop’s classic tales – The Lion and the Mouse, The Boy Who Cried Wolf, and The Tortoise and the Hare – in a bilingual work written for these concerts by local composer, Till MacIvor Meyn. Kinderconcerts last approximately 35 minutes and are appropriate for children ages 3 through 6.
Online Tickets for Groups of 20 or less:

FEB 15 at 10:30am
FEB 15 at 12:30pm
FEB 16 at 10:30am
FEB 16 at 12:30pm
Groups of more than 20:  Online Reservation Form


For Questions:  Click Here to send an email message or call 817-665-6500.

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64.  GENESIS CHILDREN'S THEATRE

Discount:  Center for Home Education is offering HEART of Texas Members (with valid membership card) 10% off production tuition (to be used one time a year).
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here
 

Location:    3100 Independence Parkway Suite
                 324b Plano, TX 75075
Box Office:  972-599-3505
Online Ticketing: click  here


Upcoming Shows at Genesis Theatre --
DEC 12 -- Belle's Enchanted Holiday
5pm

DEC 13 -- Emoji Pals
5:30pm

DEC 19 -- Peter Pan (Daffron)
5:30pm

JAN 5 -- The Drowsy Chaperone
7pm

JAN 6 -- The Drowsy Chaperone
2pm & 8pm

JAN 7 --
The Drowsy Chaperone
3pm

JAN 12 --
The Drowsy Chaperone
7pm

JAN 13 --
The Drowsy Chaperone
2pm & 8pm


Classes at Genesis Theatre
For More Information: click here

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65.  GREATER DALLAS YOUTH ORCHESTRA

2017 Concert Schedule -- 

DEC 13 -- Holiday Magic
7:30pm

FEB 3 -- Flute Choir Winter Concert
2:30pm

FEB 11 -- Rising Talent featuring YPO, DSE, & Sinfonietta
2:30pm

FEB 11 -- Presenting Philharmonic & Wind Symphony
7:30pm

MARCH 4 -- GDYO Young Virtuosi
7:30pm

MAY 6 -- Rising Talent featuring YPO, DSE & Sinfonietta
2:30pm

MAY 6 -- Presenting Philharmonic, Wind Symphony, and Flute Choir  
7:30pm

MAY 13 -- GDYO Season Finale
7:30pm


Auditioning for GDYO
If you would like to be added to the audition email list, please
click here.   
If you have not done so already, you can look over the Audition FAQs, Audition Requirements, etc. 
If you have any questions, please email us
If you auditioned this spring (for the 2015-2016 season), results will be mailed May 17, 2015. 
Under NO circumstances will results be given over the phone

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66.  PARK CITIES STUDIOS/THE DALLAS CONSERVATORY

Park Cities Studios offers world-class instruction for ages 18 months and older, in dance, singing, and acting.

Discount:  Park Cities Studios/The Dallas Conservatory is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID) 10% off their class tuition.
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Location:  7979 Inwood Rd, Suite 201, Dallas, TX  75209
Phone:  214-357-8888
For More Information:  Click Here

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67.  PLANO CHILDREN’S THEATER PERFORMANCES


Location:  Plano Productions: Plano Children’s Theater, 1301 Custer Road, Plano, TX 75075
                McKinney Productions: Heard Craig Hall, 306 North Church Street, McKinney, 75069
                McKinney (MPAC): McKinney Performing Arts Center 111 N Tennessee St, McKinney, TX
                Frisco Productions: Expedition Frisco (9073 Berkshire Drive, Frisco 75033)
NOTE:  Some productions may not be appropriate for children.  Each family is encouraged to exercise discretion when considering to allow your children/family to view these productions.

Now Showing:

DEC 8-17 -- Scrooge
Ebenezer Scrooge has spent all his life accruing gold and allowing all his loved ones to slip through his hands. On Christmas Eve 1843, Scrooge is given the gift of one more chance to redeem himself for mankind and for his soul. The musical adaptation of A Christmas Carol reminds us to love one another and to hold each other close!

DEC 14-16 -- Nightshade at Christmas

Santa’s been missing for 10 years, the Skeleton King has been left in charge. There’s starting to be an uprising in Christmas Land – they want to destroy Halloween! With the help of new friends, can the Skeleton King restore unity to the two holidays?

JAN 12-21 -- Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
Told entirely through song with the help of a main character Narrator, the musical follows preferred son Joseph. After being sold into slavery by his brothers, he ingratiates himself with Egyptian noble Potiphar, but ends up in jail after refusing the amorous advances of Potiphar’s wife. While imprisoned, Joseph discovers his ability to interpret dreams, and he soon finds himself in front of the mighty but troubled, Elvis-inspired, Pharaoh. Joseph’s solution to Egypt’s famine elevates him to Pharaoh’s right hand man and reunites him with his family.

JAN 19-27 -- The Knight at Dawn Kids
This time around, Jack and Annie’s tree house takes them to an age of knights in shining armor, where the two discover the power of hope and the true meaning of gallantry. The two siblings, Jack and Annie, return to visit the magic tree house.  As they read a book about knights and the middle ages, Annie is intrigued by the Black Knight and the mysterious quest one must successfully complete before becoming a knight.  When she wishes to visit the castle in the book, the siblings are whisked away to medieval times.  They set off to learn more about the Black Knight and his quest, experiencing a grand medieval feast, escaping through secret tunnels and dancing with enchanted suits of armor, all in an effort to find their way back home.

JAN 19-20 -- The Hobbit
Page to Stage is a course for homeschool students exploring the intersection of theatre and literature. Students will examine two versions of the text, the novel and the script. The examination of the novel will focus on themes, symbolism, and adaptation—how a novel is transformed into a script. Students will be introduced to basic theatre instruction and examine the narrative development of the text—including plot, character, and the three-act structure. Students will focus on the fundamentals of acting, as well as basic stagecraft considering set design, costuming, and the business aspects of mounting a production. Students will be hands on creating the set, costumes, and props for the final production. Students may also choose to participate in the production of the show either working backstage technical roles or working on marketing efforts. Students will not be required to perform in the production. The class will culminate in a production of the play with all students being invited to participate.

JAN 19-28 -- Beauty & the Beast, Jr
Based on the original Broadway production that ran for over thirteen years and was nominated for nine Tony Awards, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is a fantastic adaptation of the story of transformation and tolerance.  The classic story tells of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress.  If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed to his former self.  But time is running out.  If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

FEB 2-10 -- The Lion King, Jr
A lively stage adaptation of the Academy Award-winning 1994 Disney film, The Lion King is the story of a young lion prince living in the flourishing African Pride Lands. Born into the royal family, precocious cub Simba spends his days exploring the sprawling savanna grasslands and idolizing his kingly father, Mufasa, while youthfully shirking the responsibility his position in life requires. When an unthinkable tragedy, orchestrated by Simba’s wicked uncle, Scar, takes his father’s life, Simba flees the Pride Lands, leaving his loss and the life he knew behind. Eventually companioned by two hilarious and unlikely friends, Simba starts anew. But when weight of responsibility and a desperate plea from the now ravaged Pride Lands come to find the adult prince, Simba must take on a formidable enemy, and fulfill his destiny to be king.

FEB 9-17 -- The Tamin' of the Shrew
Hello y’all!  This production is Shakespeare’s classic The Taming of the Shrew, but with a few Texas twists and turns to go along with one heck of an endin’.  Kate is one of the rowdiest ladies that ever was, but with such a large dowry (that was somethin’ people used to pay dudes who married their daughter for you youngins) Antonio, of Waco, will take on any challenge.  With many other love plots and doggone funny situations and switcheroos, all taking place in the city of Dallas, this is sure to be a truck ride you don’t wanna miss out on!

MAR 1-4 -- Little Women
Based on Louisa May Alcott’s life, Little Women follows the adventures of sisters, Jo, Meg, Beth and Amy March. Jo is trying to sell her stories for publication, but the publishers are not interested – her friend, Professor Bhaer, tells her that she has to do better and write more from herself. Begrudgingly taking this advice, Jo weaves the story of herself and her sisters and their experience growing up in Civil War America.

APR 3-19 -- Year with Frog & Toad
Waking from hibernation in the Spring, Frog and Toad plant gardens, swim, rake leaves, go sledding and learn life lessons along the way. The two best friends celebrate and rejoice in the differences that make them unique and special. Part vaudeville, part make believe… all charm, A Year with Frog and Toad tells the story of a friendship that endures throughout the seasons.

To Learn More:  
www.planochildrenstheatre.com



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68.  SHINE PERFORMING ARTS STUDIO

Shine is a family-friendly, faith-based performing arts studio for kids and teenagers to hone their skills in singing, acting, and dancing.

Discount:  Shine is waiving their $25 class registration fee for HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID).  
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


Location:  3616 Churchill Lane, Plano, TX  75075
Phone:  214-218-4779
For More Information:  Click Here

2018 Performances:

Tickets on sale in January -- Fiddler on the Roof


AUDITIONS:
TBA

Discount:
 
Shine is waiving their $25 class registration fee for HEART of Texas
members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID).  
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here



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69.  TEXAS BALLET THEATER PERFORMANCES

The Texas Ballet Theater is once again partnering with HEART of Texas to offer our newsletter readers (that's you!) and other homeschoolers special ticket pricing during select performances. The dates and times of these select performances are listed below.  You can purchase tickets as a group or as a family -- all homeschoolers can enjoy these great discounts.  You do not have to be a member of HEART of Texas or any other home school support group, but you must mention HEART of Texas when you call.


Performances:

The Nutcracker
Nov 24-26, Dec 1-3 (Winspear Opera House)
Dec 8-10, 14, 16-17, 20-24 (Bass Performance Hall)
For More Information: click here

To Purchase Tickets By Phone:  Call 877-828-9200, opt 1



HEART of Texas Discount Tickets TBA for selected performances.
You must mention HEART of Texas Home School Discount Program to get the discount.
Any homeschooler may take advantage of this program
 
Tickets are sold on a first-come, first served basis, so please reserve your tickets as soon as possible to ensure the best section seating available during our select performances.  All tickets, even group tickets, must be paid for up front.  Please be aware that all sales are final. 

Please Note:  Some performances may not be appropriate for all audiences.  Please use your own judgment when considering allowing your children/family to view these productions.

           


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70.  TEXAS BALLET THEATER DANCE SCHOOL -- DANCE CLASSES -- FORT WORTH

Discount:  The Texas Ballet Theater School is offering our readers a $50 discount on registration if you mention HEART of Texas.
To learn More About This Partner:  Click Here
To learn about becoming a HEART of Texas member: Click Here


They currently offer classes during the day for 3 & 4 year olds, but if you have a group of at least 6 students who are close in age/ballet experience, they will try to put together a class for your students!

For more information:  Click here to email Ashley Friedman or 877-828-9200, ext 108


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72.  AMON CARTER EXHIBITS

The Carter houses one of the nation’s preeminent collections of American art, from works by the early nineteenth-century artist-explorers through those of the mid-twentieth-century modernists and up to the work of contemporary photographers. The museum also holds one of the most comprehensive collections of work by Frederic Remington and Charles M. Russell.

Museum Exhibits/Programs:
DEC 9, JAN 13 -- Sensory Saturday
This is a free program for families with children who are 5 to 12 years old and on the autism spectrum. Families will have time to explore artworks in the galleries and get creative during a hands-on, art-making experience!
While the needs of individuals with autism are the focus of this program, it is also intended to be fun for parents, siblings (of all ages), and other relatives!
This program is offered on the second Saturday of every month.
Reservations are required.


THROUGH DECEMBER 10 -- Nature Culture
We often think of nature as that which stands beyond humanity and culture as that which reflects people’s achievements. But rarely is the matter so simple. This exhibition explores different facets of the dichotomy. Besides reflecting on how nature counterpoints and enlivens our built environment, the show recognizes the more problematic use of the term, and its cousin “natural,” when applied to snapshots, portraits, and Native American cultures.

DECEMBER 16, 17, 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 29, 31-- Permanent Collection Tour
Meet at the Information Desk for a tour of the highlights of the permanent collection of paintings and sculpture led by one of our friendly, knowledgeable docents.
No reservations are required.

THRUGH JAN 7 -- Wild Spaces, Open Seasons: Hunting and Fishing in American Art
Wild Spaces, Open Seasons: Hunting and Fishing in American Art is the first major exhibition to explore the multifaceted meanings of such outdoor subjects in both painting and sculpture from the early nineteenth century to World War II. These aesthetically rich and culturally important works play an influential role in the history of American art.
Free docent-guided tours of this exhibition take place Thursday through Sunday at 3 p.m. and begin at the exhibition entrance on the second floor. No reservations are required.

THROUGH FEBRUARY 11, 2018 -- Caught on Paper
From giving something your “best shot” to feeling like a “fish out of water,” metaphors and imagery from the sports of hunting and fishing permeate American culture. Inspired by the coinciding exhibition of paintings and sculpture Wild Spaces Open Seasons: Hunting and Fishing in American Art, this selection of works on paper explores the popular outdoor subjects that have captivated American artists for centuries. Whether lithographs produced by the popular printmaking firm Currier and Ives or humorous photographs representing the day's catch on the back of a postcard, these works lure viewers into their action through their daring tales.

THROUGH FEBRUARY 18, 2018 -- Hugh the Hunter
Oscar-nominated documentary director Zachary Heinzerling filmed Hugh Hayden, a New York-based sculptor, taking on the persona of the lord of a Scottish estate. Hayden is as much the hunted as the hunter. He uses both literal and metaphorical camouflage in the process of seeking his prey and hiding from predators, mirroring the disguises we all adopt to assimilate into dominant cultures. The film was made when Hayden was the artist-in-residence at the Glennfiditch Distillery in Scotland. It premiered at Sundance Film Festival in the U.S. Narrative Short Films category.

THROUGH MARCH 25, 2018 -- Darryl Lauster: Trace
For his sculptural installation Trace, Texas-based artist Darryl Lauster (b. 1969) created ten fragmentary Carrara marble tablets and carved phrases in them using a font reminiscent of monuments. The blocks of stone seemingly speak essential truths—such as language from American founding documents, various militia and splinter group manifestos, and parts of the inscription on the Statue of Liberty—uniting fundamental phrases intended for entirely different purposes and obscuring their original meanings. Because the stones appear to be broken pieces of a full inscription, any overarching meaning is difficult to discern, much as many of the texts in their entirety are subject to differing interpretations. They seem to have fallen from an ancient building, as he remarks, “alluding to the possibility of an empire in its potential decline.”

THROUGH SEPT 2, 2018 -- Gabriel Dawe: Plexus no. 34
The Amon Carter has commissioned a large-scale, site-specific installation of more than eighty miles of multicolored thread by internationally celebrated Mexican-born, Dallas-based artist Gabriel Dawe.
Words cannot do justice to the transformative power of Dawe’s sculptural marvels, which he weaves from thousands of thin strands. They look like frozen light and Technicolor vaporous mist, drawing attention to the majestic architecture and natural light of the museum’s Atrium, designed by renowned architect Philip Johnson. The Amon Carter will be the home of Plexus no. 34 for two years.

THROUGH NOV 18, 2018 -- Commanding Space: Women Sculptors of Texas

The evocative power of sculpture seems boundless in the hands of five living women artists whose work fills the Amon Carter’s gallery dedicated to regional artwork. Texas-based artists Celia Eberle, Kana Harada, Sharon Kopriva, Sherry Owens, and Linda Ridgway take the traditions of sculpture in new directions for the twenty-first century. Allusions to nature and human figures connect the diverse themes present in their work, which range from evocations of history and metaphor to explorations of memory, myth, and ritual.

Guided Tours for Students:  Click Here

Museum Hours:      
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday:  10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Thursday: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Sunday:  Noon – 5 p.m.
Closed Mondays and major holidays

Admission:
 Admission to permanent collection is FREE.
Tickets for special exhibitions can be purchased
at the information desk.
All galleries in the Amon Carter Museum offer barrier-free access.


Location:  Amon Carter Art Museum
        3501 Camp Bowie Boulevard
        Fort Worth, TX 76107
        817-738-1933


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73.  DALLAS MUSEUM OF ART EXHIBITS 

Location:  Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood, Dallas, Texas 75201
Hours: Monday:  Closed
            Tuesday and Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.

            Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.
            Friday, Saturday, and Sunday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
            Closed on New Year’s Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
            Late night Fridays (3rd Friday of the month, excluding December) museum open until Midnight.


General Admission:  General admission is FREE every day
Special Exhibit Admission:  $8/person;  Ages 11 and under:  FREE


CURRENT AND UPCOMING EXHIBITIONS:

THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 2017 -- The Wittgenstein Vitrine
Conservation Gallery
Modern Opulence in Vienna: The Wittgenstein Vitrine reveals the results of an intensive research and conservation program by exploring the conservation effort and charting the context and history of this masterwork’s design and fabrication, iconography, and provenance. The exhibition also presents new perspectives on designer Carl Otto Czeschka, his work for the Wiener Werkstätte, and the important patronage of the Wittgenstein family.
Admission is FREE


DECEMBER 16, 2017 TO DECEEMBER 9, 2018 -- Asian Textiles: ARt & Trade Along the Silk Road
Level 3
Drawn from the DMA’s collection, this exhibition showcases fine examples of garments and ornamental hangings. The works on view come from India, Central Asia, China, and Japan, with some objects featuring colored ink paintings on textile backgrounds. The garments range from a Japanese fireman’s coat to an Indian sari and a Chinese dragon robe. Asian Textiles highlights the passage of luxury goods along the Silk Road between eastern Asia, India, and places like Uzbekistan. This historical trade route led to an interchange of arts and crafts from the Mediterranean to India and the Far East.
Admission is FREE


THROUGH APRIL 28, 2019 -- The Keir Collection of Islamic Art Gallery
Focus Gallery
The Keir Collection of Islamic Art Gallery is the largest public presentation in the history of one of the world's most important private collections of Islamic Art.


FREE First Tuesdays of each month (Sept - May)
First Tuesday programming is specifically designed for children ages five and under, but all ages are welcome. Enjoy thematic art-making activities, story times, performances, and gallery activities.
Time: 11:00 am–2:00 pm
Center for Creative Connections (C3)
For More Information: click here

Themes:
December 5 - Dreams of Snow
January 2 - Shape by Shape
February 6 - The Way I Feel
March 6 - Greatest Show on Earth



HOMESCHOOL CLASS
Fourth Thursday of every month, with some exceptions.
Time:
11am-12:30pm
Details:
The Dallas Museum of Art’s homeschool classes offer an interactive Museum experience for families with children ages 6 and above. Parents and children learn about works of art together in the galleries, participate in hands-on activities as a family, and create a work of art together in the Art Studio. During the program, parents learn techniques and skills for creating their own educational experiences in the gallery.
Cost:
$8/child (ages 6 -12). Adults do not require a ticket.
To Register/
To Purchase Tickets:  Click Here  Follow the instructions to add the number of tickets you need for the class (one ticket per child). Participating adults do not require a ticket. If you have any difficulties with the new system, call 214-922-1270 or 214-922-1822. Class size is limited to 20 students.  When classes are filled, call 214-922-1818 or click here to send an e-mail to be placed on a waiting list.
Themes:
DEC 14 OR 15 --All in the Family
For more information about family experiences:  214-922-1822 or click here to e-mail


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74.  KIMBELL ART MUSEUM EXHIBITS

The Kimbell Art Museum’s holdings include artworks ranging in period from antiquity to the 20th century. The collection includes masterpieces by Fra Angelico, Caravaggio, El Greco, Cezanne, Matisse, and Picasso, as well as antiquities, Asian, African, and pre-Columbian art.

Location:  Kimball Art Museum, 3333 Camp Bowie Boulevard, Fort Worth, Texas 76107-2792
Phone: 817-332-8451   Metro: 817-654-1034   Fax: 817-877-1264
Museum Hours:  Mondays – Closed
                            Tuesdays–Thursdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
                            Fridays, noon–8 p.m.
                            Saturdays, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.
                            Sundays, noon–5 p.m.
                            Closed New Year's Day, Fourth of July, Thanksgiving Day, & Christmas Day
Admission:  Admission to the Museum’s permanent collection is always free.  There is a charge for special exhibitions.
Half-Off Admission:  Tuesdays from 10am to 5 p.m. and Fridays from 5 p.m.-8 p.m. (Not applicable for Member audio tours).
Group Sales:  Discounted tickets for groups of 20 or more are available with a reservation for a specific date and time, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. For reservations, call 817-332-8451, ext. 229. Reservations for groups should be made at least two weeks in advance.


CURRENT & UPCOMING EXHIBITS
THROUGH DEC 31 -- Cassanova: The Seduction of Europe
Casanova: The Pursuit of Pleasure explores the 18th century across Europe through the eyes of one of its most colorful characters, Giacomo Casanova (1725--1798). Renowned in modern times for his amorous pursuits, Casanova lived not only in Italy, but in France and England, and his travels took him to the Ottoman Empire and to meet Catherine the Great in Saint Petersburg. Bringing together paintings, sculpture, works on paper, furnishings, porcelains, silver and period costume, Casanova will bring this world to life.

MARCH 4, 2018 - AUG 19, 2018 -- From the Lands of Asia: The Sam & Myrna Myers Collection
Renzo Piano Pavilion
When Americans Samuel and Myrna Myers visited Paris in the mid-1960s, they became so enamored with the city that they decided to make their home there. This was where they built an extraordinary collection that until now has never been exhibited publicly. Over the course of more than 40 years, the Myers assembled some 5,000 works of art that, together, offer a very personal vision of the world of Asian art. This exhibition will present over 400 objects selected from this remarkable collection, with works representing key periods in the history of the art of China, Japan, Tibet, Mongolia, Korea and Vietnam.

FAMILY FESTIVALS
View current exhibitions & preview upcoming exhibitions.
Network with other educators and participating institution staff
Enjoy light refreshments.
Learn about programs for educators and students.
Receive free resources for your classroom.
Explore ideas for using primary sources.
For More Information:  Click here to email
Upcoming Family Festivals:
FEB 18 -- Eye On Fashion/Moda a la Vista

KIMBELL KIDS DROP IN STUDIO
Time:
1pm-1:45pm
This free program introduces children (ages 12 and younger) and their adult companions to fun and inspiring ways to enjoy art together. Each session features a brief gallery activity and a related studio art project.
Registration: No advance registration for this drop-in program; space is limited to 20 children, plus adults.
Sign up at the entrance to the education studios in the Renzo Piano Pavilion, beginning one hour before the program.

For More Information: Contact Here or call: 817.332.8452
Upcoming Themes
DEC 16 -- ZigZag Landscapes

JAN 6 -- Ready, Set Draw
JAN 13 -- Ready, Set, Draw
JAN 27 -- Ready, Set, Draw
FEB 24 -- Ready, Set Draw
FEB 28 -- Ready, Set, Draw


PICTURES & PAGES
Time:
Select Tuesdays, 10:30-11:45am
Museum learning begins early with this special program for preschoolers (ages 4–6) and their adult partners. Popular children’s books inspire group conversations and simple art activities.
Free Program, but Registration is required:  
817-332-8451, ext. 351, or click to email
Space is limited. Maximum two children per adult.
Piano Pavillion Education Studios
Themes: 

JAN 2 -- Around Our way on Neighbors' Day, written by Tameka Fryer Brown
FEB 6 -- King for a Day, written by Rukhsana Khan; illustrated by Christiane Kromer


Children's Workshops
Time:  10am-Noon on select Saturdays
Connect with artworks, new friends, and creative activities during Saturday workshops for children (ages 6–14) and their adult partners. Limit three children per adult; no charge for parents. Individual session fees are $15; series of 3 sessions for $37.
To Register:  817-332-8451, ext. 351.
Upcoming Themes:

FEB 10 -- Art from the Ancient Americas: Drawing in Clay
Discover mythical stories and scenes from daily life recorded by the ancient Maya on handbuilt ceramic containers, and then model and decorate your own clay vessel.

Family Educator Morning
Time: Selected Dates, 10:15am-12:30pm
During this popular homeschool series, families will enjoy arts-based learning experiences designed for different age groups, staff-led discussions about teaching strategies for parents, and a group reflection period at the end of each program. Maximum capacity for each student group is approximately ten participants.
Families may register children for three different age groups (5-8, 9-12, 13-17); space is limited.
     
Pricing: Single session for one nonmember child or additional adult: $10
Single session for one member child or additional adult: $8
One accompanying adult is admitted free; additional adults will be charged.
No unregistered siblings may attend; please refer to Kimbell Kids Drop-in Studio (ages 12 and younger) as a free option that includes younger children.
For questions or more information: 
817-332-8451, ext. 351. or click to email
Upcoming Programs:
TBA

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75.  PEROT MUSEUM OF NATURE AND SCIENCE IN DALLAS

Location:  2201 N. Field Street in Dallas, 75201 (located at the corner of Woodall Rodgers and Field Street
Phone: 214-428-5555  
Museum Hours:  Mon-Sat: 10am-5pm
(Moody Family Children's Museum (Lower Level) Mon: Noon-5pm, Tues-Sat: 10am-5pm)
                        Sunday: noon-5pm
                        First Thursday Late Night: 5-9pm
Extended hours first Thursday of each month. Also enjoy a late-night film and special interactive programming!
Last exhibits entry at 3:30pm regular hours, or an hour and a half before closing for extended hours.

School Group/Field Trip Traffic Calendar:
                            Monday-Friday: 9am-2:30pm, September-June 5
                            Tuesday-Friday: 9am-2:30pm, limited groups June-August 28 


Museum Information:
The Museum of Nature & Science consists of several buildings all located in Fair Park, Dallas. The Nature Building is located at 3535 Grand Avenue, the Science Building is located at 1318 South Second Avenue and the Planetarium Building is located at 1620 First Avenue.


Traveling Exhibits

THROUGH MAY 6 -- Journey to Space
Time: 10am-5pm (Mon-Sat); 12pm-5pm (Sun); 5pm-9pm (First Thurs. late night)
Location: Lower Level of the Perot Museum, in the Jan and Trevor Rees-Jones Exhibition Hall.
The Journey to Space exhibition will take you as close to being in space as you can get without leaving Earth. It’s an incredible and unforgettable hands-on, climb-aboard cosmic adventure of science fun and learning that you can’t find anywhere else. You’ll experience the sights, sounds, and smells on board an orbiting space station, and find out first-hand just what it takes to be an astronaut working in the hostile environment of space.

HOME SCHOOL PROGRAMS

JANUARY 9, 2018 -- Fuel Up! Renewable Energies
10am-1pm
Cost:  $11/person.   All attendees must be registered.  Fee includes admission into the regular exhibits.
One adult over 21 must remain with child/children during any Home School class. Max is five (5) children per one (1) adult.
Parking: One parking voucher will be issued at check-in for each family. The voucher is valid program day for the main Museum Parking lot, located under Woodall Rodgers Freeway. Once you park, there is a safe crosswalk to the north (away from downtown) that leads visitors up the ramp toward the main entrance.
Details: This engaging, hands-on program features stations set up throughout the Museum's exhibit halls. Activities focus on family learning and are an exciting way to explore alternative energy, understand the carbon cycle, investigate the microscopic world of plants with a digital microscope, and discover the abundant energy around us.
Stations will include:
World of Energy
Explore forms of energy around us, including thermal and mechanical. Activities and demonstrations at this station include handling a cloud in bubble and observing a stunning display of convection, which are both effects of the sun’s thermal energy.    
Make a Molecule
This craft-based station allows participants to create a molecule that plays a role in the carbon cycle and is influential in the energy humans use.
Microscopic Marvels
Use microscopes to discover tiny universes around us. The focus is on plant and algal cells, which are common sources used to make biofuels.
Plant Cell Operation
Plants have specialized cells in order to perform certain functions for the survival of the plant. Some of these cell are not functioning properly. Learn what the different organelles in a plant cell do in this fun and educational game of “Plant Cell Operation”!
Plant's Path to Biofuel
Investigate how a corn plant and algae can be converted into a burnable energy source.
Biofuel Testing Station
Use a refractometer to measure which common household liquid contains the most sugar — a molecule that can be converted into fuel.
Storing Energy — Batteries
In this station, students will explore arranging batteries and wires to power a light bulb, and go inside to learn how a battery works by using potatoes or apples to power a simple clock.



JUNIOR MASTER NATURALIST PROGRAM
Registration Closed for both Sessions
Times:  
1st Thursdays from 6pm-7:30pm at the Museum;
                and Saturdays 10am-Noon at north Texas parks (see schedule for locations)**
For Ages:  4th - 6th Grade
Cost:  
$180/person.
Location:
Perot Museum Learning Labs, plus 4 field trips to natural parks
Do your kids get excited about catching bugs, collecting rocks or tracking wildlife? The Junior Master Naturalist program offers a whole new way to explore and protect the natural wonders of Texas. Led by Perot Museum education staff and North Texas Master Naturalist volunteers, this program combines engaging classroom training with inspiring field-based discovery to help kids develop a deeper appreciation and understanding of Texas ecosystems. Through exciting hands-on explorations and outdoor adventures, your child will gain the skills and knowledge to become good stewards of the environment.  Classes take place during First Thursday Late Nights at the Museum — and on Saturdays, participants and their parents meet at different parks in the North Texas area to explore Texas terrain, vegetation and wildlife firsthand. Once they’ve completed the program, your kids will even have the opportunity to help train future Junior Master Naturalists by becoming volunteers themselves!
**Please note that at least one guardian must provide transportation and accompany his or her children during each field trip.

PLANETARIUM SHOWS

Secrets of the Sun
From the nuclear forces churning at the heart of the sun to the mass ejections of solar material into the surrounding space, we will experience the power of the sun and its impact on the planets and ultimately life on Earth. We will trace the life cycle of the sun itself, going back to its beginnings and moving forward in time to its eventual death.
Universe
Universe allows audiences to experience an historical look at how we have envisioned the universe though the ages. We visit some of the ancient sites where our ancestors erected great structures with special astronomical significance. Finally we look at the Universe through the eyes of today’s science and space explorers to build up a spectacular overview of the heavens.
Texas Night Sky
Enjoy this informal narrated introduction to the wonders of the sky featuring a view as it may appear tonight in your own backyard. Learn which planets, stars, and constellations are currently visible, the unique stories behind their names, and tips on how to locate them in the night sky. The things available to see change as the calendar changes and so do these shows!
Seven Wonders
Turn back the pages of time and witness the ancient wonders of the world as they have not been seen for thousands of years. Travel to Egypt to visit the Lighthouse of Alexandria and the Great Pyramids, to Persia to see the original Mausoleum, to Babylon to explore the fabled Hanging Gardens, to Greece to tour the Temples of Zeus and Artemis, and to Rhodes to stand in the shadow of the towering Colossus. We will investigate the theories of how these wonders were created and get a glimpse of some of the universe’s greatest wonders. Narrated by Sean Bean, Boromir from the Lord of the Rings film trilogy.
Wonders of the Universe
Peer deep into space through the eyes of the orbiting Hubble Space Telescope and travel back billions of years in time to witness the birth of the universe. On this breathtaking excursion you’ll witness the formation of galaxies and explore some of the most wondrous nebulae and astronomical structures yet discovered. As your travels continue, you’ll fly deep into our own Milky Way galaxy and return home to Earth on a spectacular tour through the solar system.
Hubble Space Telescope Images
The Orion Nebula, a cavern of rolling dust and gas some 1,500 light-years away, is the nearest star-forming region to Earth. This image is the sharpest ever taken of the nebula.  The bright central region is home to the four heftiest stars in the nebula, collectively called the Trapezium. Ultraviolet light from them is carving a cavity in the nebula and disrupting the growth of hundreds of smaller stars. Nearby are stars still young enough to have disks of material encircling them, too small to be seen clearly in this image. The disks are the building blocks of solar systems. Faint red stars near the bottom are myriad brown dwarfs. Sometimes called “failed stars,” brown dwarfs are cool objects too small to be ordinary stars because they cannot sustain nuclear fusion in their cores the way our Sun does. Astronomers used 104 five-color Hubble images to make this composite picture, adding ground-based photos to fill out the edges. The mosaic covers approximately the apparent angular size of the full moon. The observations were taken between 2004 and 2005.

PERMANENT EXHIBITS AT PEROT MUSEUM

Moody Family Children's Museum  
Where Little Children Make Big Discoveries: Park your stroller-and rev up for a day of discovery with your child! Here, kids 5 and younger can climb a replica of Reunion Tower, discover Texas wildlife or simply paint a picture.   
Sports Hall
Give Your Mind and Body a Workout!: Could you outrun a Tyrannosaurus rex, or through a football better than a pro? Get ready, get set-and get active as you explore your body in motion!
Discovering Life Hall
The Power of Adaptation: What is life, and how do different species adapt over time? From single-cell organisms to the largest creatures on the planet, this exhibit hall explores and celebrates the diversity of life on earth.
Being Human Hall
What Does it Mean to be Human?: Study a sliver of real human tissue-or use your brain waves to launch a ping-pong ball. There's more to being human than you may realize!
Texas Instruments Engineering and Innovation Hall
How Does it Work? Ask an Engineer: What do bridges, prosthetics and robots have in common? Discover how engineers use math and science to solve everyday problems.
The Rees-Jones Foundation Dynamic Earth Hall
Forecast: 100 Chance of Change: Where else can you experience an earthquake, touch a tornado and broadcast a weather forecast all in the same day? Discover how earth, air, and water interact to provide dynamic results.
Tom Hunt Energy Hall
Empowering the Future of Energy: Take a virtual expedition deep underground to explore a drilling rig from the inside out! From natural gas to solar and wind energy, every source of energy is fueled by science.
Gems and Minerals Hall
Natural Brilliance: Gems and minerals not only serve as as the building blocks of our planet-many of them also happen to shimmer, sparkle and glow! Explore both the practical side and beautiful aspects of these complex structures.
Expanding Universe Hall
Your Space for Discovery: Embark on a journey through our solar system and beyond, and discover how scientists uncover the secrets of the universe.
T. Boone Pickens Life Then and Now Hall
Clues and Insights from the Fossil Record: Discover how studying the bodies and behaviors of modern-day animals can give scientists a glimpse of dinosaur life.
Rose Hall of Birds
Let Your Mind Take Flight: Create your own virtual species of bird as you explore the adaptations that help birds thrive in diverse environments.



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76.  FORT WORTH MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

Explore innovative learning studios and a wide variety of interactive exhibits in the new Museum of Science and History.

Location:  1600 Gendy Street, Fort Worth, 76107 (corner of Montogomery & Gendy)
Admission:  $15 for adults;  $11 for children (2-12);  $13 seniors (60+)
Admission to ExploraZone and all National Cowgirl Museum exhibits is one price and free for all Museum members
For Ticket Information: 817-255-9540
(
Exhibit admission includes half-price admission to the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame.  
The National Cowgirl Museum & Hall of Fame is open daily Mon – Sat 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday noon to 5 p.m.
)


EXHIBITS:

Hidden Treasures: Celebrating 75 Years
It's an exhibit unlike any other filled with iconic artifacts from a teaching collection which has inspired generations.  From period rooms showcasing life in a bygone era to Texas History artifacts to a spectacular array of ceremonial masks from around the world, they are collections that shaped our story.
Collections Include: 
Birth Models: When these three-dimensional models were installed in 1974, they provided a fascinating look into the birth cycle in an era before prenatal imaging was commonplace. The models remained on exhibit until the exhibit closed in 1998.
TAM: TAM is a visual representation of the human skeletal and muscular systems. Half of her body demonstrates the human skeleton and the other half demonstrates the muscular system.
Astrid: Astrid is a visual representation of all of the body's systems. Specifically, Astrid demonstrates the circulatory, digestive, respiratory, endocrine, and reproductive systems.
Skeleton on a Unicycle: The skeleton on a unicycle is a unique visual representation of the human skeleton in motion.
Trepanning: The Primitive Art of Skull Surgery: This diorama depicts a scene of Neolithic people performing a primitive form of surgery. This type of surgery was known as trepanning. Trepanning was a form of skull surgery that removed pieces of the skull that had fractured or splintered after an individual experienced some sort of head trauma.
Animals and Birds: Many of our research specimens were collected by the Museum's Science Club and exemplify our dedication to the preservation of Texas flora and fauna. Research and scientific collecting represent approximately 75% of the Museum's science collection.
Samurai Armor: The Samurai suit of armor is an authentic, Japanese suit of armor. Samurais were warrior knights during the 16th and 17th centuries in Japan. A Samurai's armor not only protected the warrior inside, but it also frightened their enemy and symbolized legendary courage.
Ceremonial Masks: Throughout history, masks have been used by many cultures for spiritual, symbolic, protective, ceremonial, and decorative reasons. These masks were on display in the "People and Their Possessions" and the "Mexican Festival Masks" exhibits.
Totem Poles: These Totem Poles were in the exhibit "Where the Spirits Dwell." They represent different concepts of home, memorial, shame or ridicule, and welcoming.
Ford Motel T Roadster, 1919: Generally regarded as the first affordable automobile for middle-class America, the Model T stands on the top ten list of the most cars sold of all time.
Champlin Oil Wagon, 1920: H.H. Champlin was a well-known banker and oilman whose company Champlin Oil had drilling operations and production in Texas, Oklahoma, Colorado, and New Mexico.
Log Cabin, CA. 1850: Many early settlers in Texas built and lived in log cabins. This period room recreates a typical log cabin kitchen in the 1850s.
Victorian Parlor, CA. 1900: This Victorian Parlor from the 1900s recreates the formal meeting place for a home during the 19th and 20th centuries. Parlors often would have contained the nicest furniture in the home in order to make a good impression on guests.
School Room, CA. 1900: Schoolhouses, like this 1900s recreation, were often one room. One teacher typically taught all students from every grade at the same time. In fact, the first school in Fort Worth had only 12 students in 1854.
General Store, CA. 1900: A typical General Store of the early 1900s provided a variety of items to farmers and ranchers and usually on credit. These stores were also popular gathering places for men, who made most of the purchases. The first general store in Fort Worth opened in 1856.
Archival Photographs:  Hidden Treasures" photographs were taken between 1941 and the early 2000s and are representative of the extensive collection of archival film photography maintained by The Fort Worth Museum of Science and History. The preservation and digitization of nearly 40,000 film images is managed by Museum archivists.

Critter Kingdom
Bugs, butterflies and birds abound in Critter Kingdom! The exhibit highlights artifacts from the Museum's vast collection of natural wonders. Enjoy this debut Collection Showcase as we launch our celebration of the 75th Anniversary of the Fort Worth Museum of Science and History.

Think
THINK, created and developed by IBM, is an experience that celebrates the wonders of our technological world and explores the possibilities of tomorrow.  This 6,600 square-foot interactive exhibit is designed to showcase how technology and innovation have transformed the world. The THINK experience presented by IBM explores how technology influences the way we live and work.  THINK engages visitors through a unique combination of experiences. A 30-foot “gesture wall” reveals the ebb and flow of data in our daily lives through colorful visualizations of information such as traffic, solar energy and air quality. In addition to the self-guided interactive tour, THINK provides a theater space and game stations for technology driven education and entertainment.
Teacher Guide:  Click Here

Air Park
Air Park looks at four main forces that make flight possible: gravity, lift, thrust and drag. All four of these forces are explained by activities that allow guests to see the forces in action: build a paper airplane and see if the design will soar; learn how kites are created and how they can fly; design and build a craft that floats on a column of air; and make a pinwheel and test it on a table of air.
Exhibit components include:
Kite Creation: Learn how kites are designed.
Real Hang Gliders: Watch footage of hang gliders as they take off, soar through the sky and land.
Airplane Launcher: Design your own paper airplane and test it at the airplane launcher.
Air Tables: Design and build a craft that floats on a column of air.
Bernoulli Blowers: Learn why beach balls magically float above a column of moving air.
Pinwheel Table: Design a twirling pinwheel and test it on a table of moving air.



PLANETARIUM SHOWS:
One World, One Sky:  Big Bird's AdventureJoin Big Bird, Elmo and their friend, Hu Hu Zhu as they introduce children to the night sky and very basic astronomy. Recommended for very young audiences (ages 2 to 7), and the very young at heart!
Back to the Moon, for Good! – In case you haven’t heard, the Moon is trending again… and in a big way. Like in the glory days of the 1960s and 1970s, our big white space neighbor is enjoying the attention of lunar explorers. Only this time, they’re going back to the moon for good.
LASER Light Family Style
Our Amazing Solar System – Climb aboard for a fun and informative journey through the planets, from the center of our solar system to its very edge.
Fragile PlanetFly from the oceans of Earth, to the towering peaks of Mars, and out to the unexplored landscapes of the Milky Way galaxy. Could there be life out there and, if there is, could we ever find it?
Two Small Pieces of Glass Follow two students as they learn how the telescope has helped us understand our place in space.
IBEX  – IBEX stands for the Interstellar Boundary Explorer. This mission has helped us to better understand where our solar system ends, and where the rest of the Milky Way galaxy begins.
Black Holes: The Other Side of Infinity – Dare to get up close as a star ends its life with a cataclysmic explosion and collapses into one of the most mysterious and destructive objects of the universe.

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77. NASHER SCULPTURE CENTER

Location:  Dallas Arts District
                2001 Flora Street
                214-242-5100
Hours:  Tuesday-Sunday, 11 am – 5 pm
Closed Mondays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Cafe Hours: Tuesday – Sunday, 11 am – 3:30 pm (for food services) & 4 pm (for beverage services)
Please note that hours are subject to change depending on private events and/or volume of business.
Closed Mondays, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Admission:  
Adult: $10; Seniors 65+: $7; Military w/ID: $7; Student w/ID: $5; Child under 12: FREE
Regular admission includes a free audio tour and entrance to special exhibitions.
FREE admission every first Saturday of the month, 10am-5 pm.

Til Midnight at the Nasher
6pm-Midnight
FREE Admission
'til Midnight at the Nasher presents live outdoor concerts featuring the best in regional music talent and film screenings in the Nasher Garden. Guests have the opportunity to engage in social media scavenger hunts, progressive tours and to view the permanent collection and special exhibitions.  Nasher Cafe by Wolfgang Puck offers special reserve-ahead picnic dining for two and grab & go food items the night of the event.
TBA


EXHIBITS:
THROUGH JAN 7 -- Tom Sachs: Tea Ceremony
Tom Sachs: Tea Ceremony presents Sachs’ distinctive reworking of chanoyu, or traditional Japanese tea ceremony—including the myriad elements essential to that intensely ritualistic universe.  In the Nasher’s indoor galleries, Sachs will set a tea house in a garden accessorized with variations on lanterns, gates, a wash basin, a plywood airplane lavatory, a koi pond, an ultra HD video wall with the sublime hyper-presence of Mt. Fuji, a bronze bonsai made of over 3,600 individually welded parts, and other objects of use and contemplation, all made from commonplace materials easily procured at local art supply stores or through the McMaster-Carr hardware catalogue.  Sachs has also produced a complete alternative material culture of Tea—from bowls and ladles, scroll paintings and vases, to a motorized tea whisk, a shot clock, and an electronic brazier.


THROUGH FEB 20 -- Paper into Sculpture
The artists in Paper into Sculpture, including Marco Maggi, Joshua Neustein, Nancy Rubins, and others, play on tensions between commonly held understandings of sculpture and what paper can and cannot do, pushed to physical limits.  Treating paper as a material with a palpable three-dimensional presence rather than as a mere support for mark-making, they use processes ranging from tearing, crumpling, and cutting to scattering, binding and adhering to create sculptural works that take a variety of forms, with a varied range of expressive and conceptual implications.

THROUGH JAN 28 -- The DRAMASTICS: A Punk Rock Victory Twister in Texas
In a fantastical cornucopia of color, form, and gesture, Nathan Carter presents the story of a fictional punk rock band who call themselves The DRAMASTICS. The band, and the world Carter created for them, are the focus of his first video titled The DRAMASTICS are Loud (2016), which tells the story of the group’s rise to stardom in a series of vignettes, starting with The DRAMASTICS’ formation at Booker T. Washington High School for the Performing and Visual Arts in Dallas and ending incredibly with a world tour finale in Paris.

 

First Saturdays (FREE Admission)
10am-5pm (family activities from 10am-2pm)
Bring the kids and enjoy free admission and fun family programming on the first Saturday of every month.  
Themes:

JAN 6 2018 -- Big Idea: Geometric/Organic
Art Project:  Project Funway

MAR 13-18, 2018 -- Spring Break at the Nasher
11am-5pm
Bring the whole family to enjoy a week of free programming at the Nasher and investigate big ideas from  Nasher Prize Laureate Theaster Gates through interactive resources.

HOMESCHOOL WORKSHOPS
TBA

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78.  SHOWS AT THE FORT WORTH OMNI IMAX THEATER–MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & HISTORY

NOW SHOWING:
THROUGH DEC 14 --
The Polar Express
All Aboard! THE POLAR EXPRESS: AN IMAX EXPERIENCE  will once again delight children and adults when it returns for the holidays to the Omni Theater on Saturday, November 18, 2017. The Omni Theater will offer the only domed IMAX presentation in the Southwest of this now-classic family favorite.

Journey to the South Pacific (rated G)
Narrated by Cate Blanchett, Journey to the South Pacific will take moviegoers on a breathtaking adventure to the lush tropical islands of remote West Papua, where life flourishes above and below the sea. Join Jawi, a young island boy, as he takes us on a journey of discovery to this magical place where we encounter whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and other iconic creatures of the sea. Home to more than 2,000 species of sea life, this exotic locale features the most diverse marine ecosystem on earth. An uplifting story of hope and celebration, Journey to the South Pacific highlights the importance of living in balance with the ocean planet we all call home.

Lewis & Clark Journey West
Travel back in time more than 200 years to explore the new world of the American West when National Geographic’s Lewis & Clark: Great Journey West returns to the Museum of Science and History’s Omni IMAX Theater. The film brings to life one of the greatest adventures in American history. A National Geographic production, the film dramatizes the remarkable and perilous journey undertaken by Lewis and Clark’s Corps of Discovery 207 years ago. It was the first overland expedition to the Pacific Ocean and back. The film tells the story of the team’s arduous expedition from 1803 to 1806, the spectacular wildlife they encountered, the punishing winters they endured, the diverse Native American tribes they met and the breathtaking vistas the explorers experienced on their legendary journey into uncharted territory.

Jerusalem (rated G)
Jerusalem, sacred to half the people on earth; fought over more than any other place in history; conquered and destroyed, rebuilt and reinvented repeatedly over 5,000 years. Jerusalem is a giant screen film adventure that immerses audiences in a spectacular cinematic journey—soaring high above the Holy Land and plunging deep into the vibrant Old City—so they can experience as never before the iconic sites cherished by billions. Jerusalem is a breathtaking film that explores on a grand scale the intersection of science, history and religion in this ancient, enigmatic place.

A Beautiful Planet (rated G)
A Beautiful Planet is a breathtaking portrait of Earth from space, providing a unique perspective and increased understanding of our planet and galaxy as never seen before. Made in cooperation with the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), the film features stunning footage of our magnificent blue planet — and the effects humanity has had on it over time — captured by the astronauts aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Narrated by Jennifer Lawrence and from IMAX Entertainment and Toni Myers — the acclaimed filmmaker behind celebrated IMAX® documentaries Blue Planet, Hubble 3D and Space Station 3D — A Beautiful Planet presents an awe-inspiring glimpse of Earth and a hopeful look into the future of humanity.

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79. 
FEATURED 3D FILMS AT THE HOGLUND FOUNDATION THEATER AT PEROT MUSEUM

Hurricane 3D (20 minutes)
A force so powerful, ancient civilizations revered it as a deity, Hurricane 3D is the journey of a storm named Lucy as it transforms from bubbling clouds to a raging monster covering 500 miles. The view of this storm is from space, through the eyes of animals, from the emergency agencies meant to warn and help, and ultimately from the ground – as it explodes and unleashes its fury.
To View Trailer: Click Here
Tickets:
Click Here

Journey to Space 3D (20 minutes)
In the past half century, humans have punched through the stratosphere, walked on the moon, and lived continuously in orbit. In the coming decades, our unquenchable curiosity will take our species beyond the cradle of Earth to touch the face of another world.  Journey to Space 3D will both inspire a new generation of young people to dream of new horizons in space, and engender a new appreciation for the accomplishments of the Space Shuttle Program among an older generation who came to take it for granted. Through extensive interviews, brilliant narration, and stunning 3D, discover the foundation behind the next giant leaps being taken into space.
To View Trailer: Click Here
Tickets:
Click Here

Living in the Age of Airplanes (47 minutes)
Narrated by Harrison Ford and featuring an original score by Academy Award® winning composer James Horner (Avatar, Titanic) Living in the Age of Airplanes presents a story that renews our appreciation for the amazing invention of the airplane as it stunningly conveys the wonder and grandeur of flying. The films explores the countless ways the airplane affects our lives, with a fascinating take on history, breathtaking visuals, and spectacular music making it enjoyable for all! Beautifully filmed in 18 countries, across all 7 continents, the film renews our appreciation for one of the most extraordinary and awe inspiring inventions in the modern world.
To View Trailer: Click Here
Tickets:
Click Here



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80.  PROGRAMS AT LOG CABIN VILLAGE

Location:  2100 Log Cabin Village Lane, Fort Worth, TX  
Phone: 817-392-5881
Admission:  $4.50 ages 4-17 and 60+;  $5 ages 18+
Groups:  $4.00 each for groups of 10+;  Free for ages 3 & under
Hours:  Tue-Fri, 9 a.m.- 4 p.m.
             Sat & Sun, 1 p.m.- 5 p.m.
             Closed Mondays

Upcoming Programs

DEC 16 -- Folk Songs of the Cowboy and Pioneer
1pm-3pm
Cost: Regular village admission
Cowboys and pioneers spent a lot of slow moving time on the range and on the many trails leading westward.   Many folk songs and cowboy ballads were made up and sung along the way.  Bob Sawyer will be singing many of these folk songs and sharing their stories.  
No reservations required. 

DEC 24, 25, & 31 -- Log Cabin Village Closed for Holidays

JAN 20 -- Dutch Oven Cooking
1-4pm
Cost: Regular village admission
Join us for a dutch oven cooking demonstration by our friends, the Prairie Dogs (Lone Star Dutch Oven Society)!  No reservations required.

JAN 22-FEB 5, 2018 -- Closed for Maintenance

FEB 10 -- Victorian Paper Crafting Class
9am-Noon
$15 per person
Participants for this class will learn a bit about 19th century paper crafting, including an introduction to scherenschnitte paper cutting and other techniques perfect for making historic valentines!   This class is designed to be an adult or adult/child activity.
Limit of 2 children (ages 9 & up) per adult
Registration/Payment Required by FEB 2 (the earlier the better)
Registration Form

FEB 24, MAR 24, MAY 5 -- Beginning Knitting Class
12-1:30pm
$50/person (includes knitting needles, yarn, 3 instruction sessions, and Village admission.
Join Michele and Jeanie as they introduce you to the basics of knitting. Class is designed as an adult or adult/child activity.  The class occurs in three sessions: Feb 24, Mar, 24, and May 5.
Limit 2 children (ages 10 & up) per adult
Registration/Payment Required by FEB 14 (the earlier the better)
Registration Form

MAR 11, APR 15, MAY 6 -- Up Close with a Village Artisan
1:30-3:30pm
Cost: Regular village admission
Explore “new frontiers” at the Tompkins cabin as some of our interpreters demonstrate historic skills with a modern sensibility.  The materials may be contemporary, but the techniques are timeless! 
No reservations required.
Featured artisans include: 
MAR 11:  Polymer clay sculpting with Ashli
APR 15: Drop spindle and wheel spinning with Michele
MAY 6: Watercolors with Sydney
Please Note: These are demonstrations not hands-on classes.  Bring lots of questions, however!

APR 21 -- Spring Social
1-4 p.m.
Cost: $6.50/ages 18+, $6/ages 4-17 & 60+, $5.50/Groups of 10 or more.  Ages 3 & under/Free
(cost includes admission and all activities)
Come help us celebrate our 52nd birthday with fun activities for the whole family!  In addition to historical interpreters demonstrating frontier skills, we’ll have: Music, Historic Games, Crafts
No reservations required.

APR 28  -- Cherokee Basket Weaving Class
1-4 p.m.
Cost: $25/person
Join Hannah as she guides you through the process of making your own beautiful Cherokee-style double walled basket.  Class is designed an adult or adult/child activity.
Limit of 2 children (ages 8 & up) per adult
Registration/Payment Required by APR 15 (the earlier the better)
Registration Form

MAY 21-27 -- Log Cabin Village Closed for Maintenance


For More Information about the programs:  Click Here

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81.  DALLAS HERITAGE VILLAGE AT OLD CITY PARK

Location:  
Dallas Heritage Village at Old City Park, 1515 South Harwood St.
                  (
located near the heart of downtown Dallas, close to the junction of Interstates 30 and 35)
Admission:  $9 Adult;  $7 Senior (65+);  $5 Child (4 to 12 years)
Group Pricing:
 15 - 49 People Adults: $8 per person; Seniors (65+): $6.50 per person
                       
  50 - 99 People Adults:  $7 per person; Seniors (65+): $6 per person
                         
100+ People Adults: $5 per person; Seniors (65+): $5 per person
*Admission prices for special events vary. Detailed information about upcoming events is listed in our Calendar of Events.

Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
           
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
           
Monday: Closed to the public
Closed:
January and August
Closed the following holidays:
Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day.

EXHIBITS
THROUGH DEC 30, 2017 -- Neighborhoods We Called Home
The exhibit explores the historic neighborhoods of Dallas that served as strong, supportive communities for African American, Hispanic, and Jewish Dallasites from the early 1900s and beyond.

EVENTS

Barnyard Buddies
2nd Wed of the month (March – May & October – December) & every Wed in June.
11am-Noon
Cost:
$5/person
DEC 13 -- Marisol McDonald Doesn't Match, by Monica Brown
In conjunction with our temporary exhibit, “Neighborhoods We Call Home,” this Fall we will be reading children’s books about cultures and tolerance. Spots. Stripes. Peanut butter and jelly burritos. Marisol loves it all. Join us as we read Marisol McDonald Doesn’t Match by Monica Brown followed by a hands-on activity, and a fun craft. Great for children aged 18 months to 5 years.
Located within our new early childhood playspace, The Parlor, participants will be able to interact with the new space after the program until 1:00pm.


Homeschool Workshops:

Cost:  $15 per participating student;  Parents & children 3 and under free
Registration Details:  Workshops & tours must be booked at least 3 weeks in advance,
and are conducted during regular museum hours.
Workshops are held rain or shine. Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Topics Offered:
--Teens Telegraphing

How did kids know what the weekend plans were? What did they do to let friends know what was happening? Today, everything and everyone is connected, and within seconds of something happening, texts and photos are being sent across town and the country. How did people communicate long ago? Learn how we kept in touch when we were restricted by technology, etiquette, and social rules.
--Home Arts of the Pioneers
Pioneers knew how to spin, weave and sew along with the many other chores needed just to survive. With all the labor required every day just to persevere, why would they take the extra time to learn the additional skills and techniques to decorate basic everyday objects? We’ll go back in time and try to understand the creative heart of the pioneers.
--Pioneer Pets
Could your pet make it in the Old West? How do you pet a chicken? Can you envision your pampered lap cat with the job title of “Rat Killer”? Just like the pioneer children, the animals had chores too! During your workshop, learn a lesson in Donkey Care 101, what Fluffy would have to do to earn her keep and more.
For More Information:  Click Here to email or 214-413-3664

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82.  OLD RED MUSEUM OF DALLAS COUNTY HISTORY AND CULTURE

Location:  Old Red Museum, 100 South Houston Street, Dallas, TX  75202
Phone: 214-757-1949
Hours:
The Museum is open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
The Museum will be closed on the following days:
December 24th & 25th

Admission:
General admission: $8
                 Senior (64+)/Student admission: $6 (students must show current high school or university ID)
                 Children ages 3-16: $5
                 Children under age 3: Free
                 Old Red Members: Free (Must Provide Proof of Membership)
                 Sunday Only – Early Bird Special: $5 for tickets purchased before noon
                 Jury Duty – Visitors can receive a reduced admission of $4 with proof of jury duty
General Admission tickets include admission to both the permanent galleries on the second floor and any special exhibit on the first floor.
Special Exhibits Only:  
Free with Old Red Museum General Admission
Special Exhibit Gallery Only: 
$3.00 adults; $1.00 children 3-16; Free for children under 3 years of age
Groups:  
Groups of 20 people or more, $5 each. This special pricing is ONLY AVAILABLE BY MAKING ADVANCED ARRANGEMENTS. Please call the group sales department at 214-757-1949 or click to email to book a group sale to take advantage of this price.

Discount:
  The Old Red Museum of Dallas County History and Culture is offering HEART of Texas members (with valid HEART of Texas Family ID) a $1 discount per person/ticket. Discount may not be used for the Home School Workshops.

To learn about HEART of Texas membership:
Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


CURRENT EXHIBITS
Through JUNE 8, 2018 -- Dallas Curated: 50 Objects/ 50 Stories
In celebration of the Old Red Museum’s 10th anniversary, this exhibit takes you on a journey into the curator’s world of examining and mining stories from the museum’s own collection. Whether handcrafted or mass-produced, every day or extraordinary, objects have the power to evoke a wide range of responses. Visitors are encouraged to share their own favorite objects that tell the story of Dallas.

July 1, 2018 through June 9, 2019 -- American Childhood: Celebrating Classic Toys
This self-curated exhibit showcases more than 100 of America’s favorite toys dating from the 1880s to the 1980s!   Join us to gain insight on how economic and social history shaped the development of toys and leisure-time play. Iconic favorites like Lincoln Logs, Barbie,and Fisher-Price are highlighted along with model trains, vintage dollhouse furniture, and classic board games. Relive your childhood by peering into a recreated Woolworth’s display window that promises fun and excitement for pennies on the dollar!

JULY 1 2019-JUNE 7 2010 -- Creating a Postwar Life: Dallas in the 1950s
Through the years, the Old Red Museum has explored some of the most defining decades in Dallas County’s history, from the 1940s home front experience to the turbulent 1960s. What happened in between? Experience life in Dallas during a period of highway construction, suburban development, and sweeping social change. Sound familiar? The exhibit balances the decade’s complex social and political environments with the golden age of television and popular culture that continue to draw enthusiasts nearly 70 years later!


OTHER EXHIBITS:
Early Years: Prehistory to 1873
Trading Center

Big D
World Crossroads


HOMESCHOOL PROGRAMS

Future Home School Programs TBA


 
  
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83.  STAR PARTIES

Have you ever seen the rings of Saturn? Have you ever wanted to view the moons of Jupiter? Have you been dazzled by a star cluster?  The well-attended, monthly public star parties presented by the Fort Worth Astronomical Society (FWAS) have moved to Tandy Hills Natural Area, a 160-acre indigenous remnant of Fort Worth prairie located in the heart of Fort Worth, Texas.  We have all the telescopes like we had at our other monthly public star party location. And our members are there to show you the sky and answer your astronomy questions as usual.

FWAS STAR PARTIES
FREE and Open to the Public
Location:
Tandy Hills Natural Area, 3400 View Street, Fort Worth, TX 76103

2017 Dates:
DEC 9 Star Party - 5pm-11pm

2018 Dates TBA


         
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84.  NORTH TEXAS DISTRICT SCIENCE FAIR FOR HOME SCHOOLERS

Need a boost to your homeschool science curriculum? Have a detail inclined child or one who loves science or technology? Need something on a college application to convince the staff your child can compete with the best? Science fair should be in your future!

Your 6th graders have a chance to participate in the Dallas Regional Science and Engineering Fair (DRSEF) too!

Private homeschooled students in grades 3-12 may enter in one of 4 divisions. Those living in TEA region 10: Collin, Dallas, Ellis, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, Kaufman and Rockwall counties compete for the opportunity to enter the DRSEF. Students in other near-by counties may compete at our NDTSF for awards, but cannot be guaranteed entry into a regional ISEF event: some have gone on to the FortWorth Regional event.

All 6 - 12 grade projects need some ISEF forms (like the research plan) to be filled in BEFORE experimentation begins! 6th graders' projects may NOT include any handling of toxic/dangerous substances or require permission for human or animal subjects. Higher grades must submit forms for these BEFORE experimentation begins - start early. Please find out more on our website. This is the most confusing part of science fair participation, so let's get it worked out early - contact us. We don't want students eliminated on technicalities.

Students from our NDTSF have done very well at DRSEF (placing and even Grand Prize!) and at the Texas Science and Engineering Fair (placing). You don't have to place to win a special prize. Add that "WOW" factor to your project by checking out our new links to give your project even more "Marvelocity". Ask how we can help. Don't forget to check our "Links" page for more homeschool friendly science competitions (some links need to be fixed at Texas A&M).

For More Information:  Click Here to email

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86.  AQUA KIDS

AquaKids Swim School, located in Flower Mound and Keller, provides year-round swim lessons beginning at 6 months of age. In addition, they provide Swim Team, Open Swim, and private birthday parties.

Discount:  AquaKids is offering an exclusive $30 per session discount for HEART of Texas families. This discount is available for Group, Private, or Semi-Private Lessons, or Private birthday parties.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

For More Information: 
Click Here


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88.  BEST GYMNASTICS IN FLOWER MOUND 

Gymnastics is the best sport available to create young athletes and proper athletic foundations for all future sporting endeavors.  We offer several classes for all ages including: Little Tots class for 14mo-3 years, Best Kids 3-4 years.  For ages 5 and up we offer Tumbling, Girls Gymnastics, Boys Gymnastics and a Home schooling class. 

Location:  601 Cross Timbers Rd. Suite 100 in Flower Mound.
To Learn More: 972-874-8800 or click here

Home School Class
Date: Every Wednesday
Time: 1:00pm-2:00pm
Details: Best Gymnastics does not have sessions, so you can join at anytime! This co-ed class for ages 5 and older will focus on athletic conditioning, tumbling, flexibility, core strength, and of course, fun! The class has a 10:1 student/teacher ratio.
Cost: $59/month
For more information: Click here

Open Gym
Date: Every Friday
Time:  6:00pm-9:00pm 
Cost: $12/child
Details: This is a drop off event. Lots of exercise and lots of fun! No reservations required.
For more information: Click here


Discount:  Best Gymnastics is offering HEART of Texas members a 15% discount off all of their recreational gymnastics classes, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


To Learn More about Best Gymnastics: 972-874-8800 or click here

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89.  BOWMAN SPORTS -- PE 101 CLASSES

PE 101 is a 90 minute class that allows students to explore many sports in a short time. This porogram is designed so that students can be active and learn about athletics and team sports. Each class begins with a dynamic warm-up and stretch. We rotate through agility sations and drills.  Each unit of study includes sport specific drills and games, including rules of the game, strategy and the fundamentals required to play.  We also enjoy fun classic games like kickball, dodgeball, whiffleball and capture the flag.  

Roanoke Classes:  
Meet Fridays at 10:30am
Location: Ronoake Recreation Center, 501 Roanoke Rd, Roanoke, TX 76262
Click Here to register.

Prosper Classes:  Meet TBD 
Click here to register

Haltom City Classes:  Meet Tuesdays at 9:30am
Location:  Haltom City Recreation Center, 4839 Broadway Ave
Click here to register or 817-831-6464

McKinney Classes:  Meet Thursdays at 10:30am
Location:  McKinney Community Center, 2001 S Central Expy, McKinney, TX 75070
Click here to register

Flower Mound Classes:  Meet Tuesdays at 12:30pm
Click here to register

Discount:  HEART of Texas members (with current HEART of Texas member card) will receive a $5 discount off monthly class fees.  Some classes are eligible to combine for an additional sibling discount - ask at registration.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership
 
Email:  click here to email or 817-929-3333



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90.  316 BRAZILIAN JIU-JITSU ACADEMY (316BJJ)

316 BJJ is a Christian organization located in Rockwall, TX, designed to help people train their mind, bodies, and spirits in a safe environment. Our goal is to provide a safe environment for everyone to learn self-defense and to increase their skill as a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu student.

Discount:   HEART of Texas members (with current HEART of Texas member card) will receive a 20% discount.
To Learn About HEART of Texas Membership: http://www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership

For More Information: click here



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91.  CHRISTIAN MARTIAL ARTS

Christian Martial Arts, an outreach of First Baptist Church of Euless, is offering a free month of classes to HEART of Texas newsletter readers who wish to try out their program.  Christian Martial Arts has been ministering to the physical as well as spiritual needs of local families for almost ten years at First Euless!

It is a fun way to get plenty of exercise in an environment that seeks to honor God and teach respect for others. The tenets of CMA are Courtesy, Humility, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable spirit. Students learn fundamentals of self-defense, balance, flexibility, practice and repetition. We encourage progress through belt promotions but each student is only in competition with himself to advance. We have sparring nights, optional board breaking, tournaments and special events including Christmas parties and demonstrations. If you are looking for a great family activity, you've found it!


Cost: $25/month per person

Discount:  Christian Martial Arts, an outreach of First Baptist Church of Euless, is offering a free month of classes to HEART of Texas newsletter readers who wish to try out their program.

Times/Class Descriptions:
Monday: 6:00  p.m.–6:30  p.m.–Children only
Monday: 6:30  p.m.–7:30  p.m.–Beginners & Advanced of all ages
Thursday: 6:30  p.m.–7:30  p.m.–Beginners of all ages
Thursday: 7:30  p.m.–8:30  p.m.–Advanced students
Saturday: 10:00 am–12:00  p.m.–Open Workout for all students



For More Information: Click Here


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92.  DALLAS THUNDER HOME SCHOOL BASKETBALL

Dallas Thunder is a home school competitive basketball organization.
Dallas Thunder offers:
Christ-centered, competitive Basketball for Home schooled boys and girls
Experienced, Professional Coaches.
The opportunity to play top public and private schools in the area
Participation in the National Christian Homeschool Basketball Tournament.

Teams forming for 2017-2018
Forney Sports Center
Monday - 2-4pm
Wednesday - 1-3pm
Click here to register

Website: http://www.dallasthunder.org 


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94.  DasCHE Spartans


Location:
Faith Bible Church – 1437 W. Pleasant Run Rd. DeSoto, TX 75115
RM 208 in back building

For More Information: click here

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95.  HOME SCHOOL ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

The Home School Athletic Association is a Christian-based organization providing athletics for homeschoolers through volunteer home school parent. They provide various programs including football, baseball, volleyball, soccer, and basketball for high school and middle school home schoolers.
 
Cheerleading:  Girls junior high cheerleading squad for the 2015 football season.  Click here to contact the coach.  

Cross Country:
If you are interested in joining HSAA Cross Country, p
lease click here to contact the Track Commissioner.

Football: 11-Man Tackle Football...Middle School, JV, and Varsity!
Open to boys, ages 11 to 18 and in grades 6 through 12, HSAA Football promises to provide each student-athlete with a Christ-centered approach to sports. Though competitive in nature, to be sure, HSAA will not sacrifice core values to win at all costs.

Instead, coaches and parents – and team mentors (varsity players and those who have recently graduated) – work with the players to build character for life.

Registration details: Click Here

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96.  HOME SCHOOL FENCING CLASSES AT FENCING INSTITUTE OF TEXAS

Fencing Institute of Texas is committed to supporting our Home Schooled children by providing physical fitness that challenges the mind as well as the body.  

Home School Classes
Times:  4:30 p.m. – 6 p.m. – Tuesdays and Thursdays
        10:00 a.m. – 11:30 am. – Saturdays

Instructor:  Coach Rhonda Trietsch
For More Information: 972-444-8498 or visit: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html

Students enjoy private lessons, group training, and mini-tournaments during this time.
Parents are welcome to participate along with their children in these programs.

Additional classes during the week between the hours of 10 AM and 4  p.m. will be added

as this program and need grows.  

Open Enrollment: Students may join this program at any time; the first month's fees are prorated.  There is no pro-ration of fees after the first month.  Fees are $90 per month plus $50 tuition ($140), and are due by the 5th of the month.  Fees are due in advance and are non-refundable.

Students may take additional private lessons outside of the class meeting time for an additional fee.

Discount:  Fencing Institute of Texas is offering HEART of Texas members a $10 discount off the monthly tuition (individual or family) with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.   HEART of Texas students participating in the FIT Saturday Page or Squire programs receive a $5 discount off the monthly program fee with a valid Heart of Texas family membership card.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here



To Register: Class size is limited to 15 students; pre-registration is required.  If you are interested, please call our school at (972) 444-8498, or complete and mail or FAX the Home School Registration form.

To Download Registration Form: http://www.fenceintexas.org/homeschool.html


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97.   HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM AT LANTANA GOLF CLUB

REGISTRATION OPEN FOR HOME SCHOOL GOLF PROGRAM
SPRING 2015 SESSION

Experience the Game of Golf! Lantana Golf Club is offering three separate golf programs for juniors, age 8-17, in 2015. The Spring, Summer and Fall programs will each offer weekly clinics over a period of 8-10 weeks.

Participants will receive instruction on full swing, short game (chip, pitch, putting) and bunker play. Participants will also receive a basic introduction to the rules & etiquette of golf and the opportunity for quality time on the course.

Our objective is to introduce juniors to the game of golf, improve playing skills and provide the opportunity for personal growth and learning. We hope to build and strengthen character, develop new friendships, and enjoy the experience and life lessons this great game provides.

Marc Brooks will provide lead instruction with assistance from other local golf professionals as needed. Mr. Brooks is a PGA member and currently Director of Instruction at Lantana Golf Club. He was named "Best Golf Instructor Denton County 2011, 2012 and 2013" and a member of the PGA President's Council for his continuing effors to promote the grow the game of golf.  

To Register: click here to download the registration form.

For more information: Contact Marc Brooks, PGA at 940-728-4653 ext. 308 or click here to email

Discount:  Marc Brooks is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


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98.  HOMESCHOOL SWIM-- The Colony Aquatic Park

Location:  
The Colony Aquatic Park
               5580 N. Colony Blvd  
               The Colony, TX  75056


For More Information: 972-624-2225 or Click Here to email
http://www.TCpard.com

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99.  HOME SCHOOL SWIM AND SWIM TEAM AT DON RODENBAUGH NATATORIUM
IN ALLEN

Home School Open Swim
Half-Price Fridays at the Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium!

Time:  1 p.m. – 3 p.m. during the school year
Who:  Home school students and their families.
Cost:  $2/Students;  $2.50/adults
For More Information:  Call 214-509-4770 or visit http://www.allenparks.org/

City of Allen Home School Swim Team
Practices:  Monday through Friday from 12:30 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Location:  Don Rodenbaugh Natatorium
For more information:  Call 972-992-3996 or visit http://www.metro-aquatics.org/


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100.  PARKER-TARRANT HOME SCHOOL SPORTS

Parker-Tarrant Home School exists to promote and accomplish  education for the Texas Home School student in a Christian environment. With a focus primarily in the Parker County and West Tarrant County areas of North Texas, the organization’s objective is to provide a competitive environment for middle school and high school  competition that is not normally provided by traditional home school organizations or support groups. PTHSS desires to accomplish this goal in a way that both works alongside the parents and honors Jesus Christ.

Currently the PTHSS organization offers boys' Varsity and Junior Varsity Baseball, boys' Basketball from middle school through high school, girls' high school basketball and girls' Varsity and Junior Varsity Volleyball. Six-Man boys' football is being added this fall! Other  programs and age divisions may be offered in the future.

Many of the PT Warriors athletic activities occur at Birchman Baptist Church in West Fort Worth.


For More Information:  click Here to email or www.pthss.org/

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101.  POP-IN PLAYTIME AT PUMP-IT-UP OF GRAPEVINE

WEDNESDAYS AND THURSDAYS
Time:  10 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Ages:  2-6 years old

WEDNESDAYS
Time:  3:30–5:30 p.m.
Ages:  6-12 years old

Discount:  Pump-It-Up of Grapevine is offering HEART of Texas members a 10% discount on private parties. Members also receive $1 off Pop-In-Playtime on Wednesdays and Thursdays between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. for ages 2 through 6, and on Wednesdays from 3:30 p.m. to 5:30 for ages 6-12.   Members must present their valid HEART of Texas Family ID card to take advantage of these special offers.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here


For More Information:  817-329-1332 or grapevine@pumpitupdfw.com


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102.  THESA RIDERS HOME SCHOOL ASSOCIATION

THESA Riders is a home school association, providing the DFW area with competitive and Christ-centered athletic programs for home schoolers at the high school and junior high level.

THESA offers the following:
Baseball -- 
Boys Basketball -- Girls Basketball -- Girls Cheer -- Boys Football -- Boys and Girls Golf -- Girls Softball -- Girls Volleyball

THESA Riders is offering a competitive HIGH SCHOOL GIRLS SOCCER program for 2014-2015.
TRYOUTS:  Dates to be announced SOON – check web site or email us

Who is THESA?
THESA  (Texas Home Educators' Sports Association) exists to support families with a calling to home educate their children by providing high quality, competitive sports programs, enabling children to grow in Godly character and skills at the junior and senior high level.

What does a THESA soccer tryout look like?
The coaches will spend about 20 minutes at the beginning of the tryouts with a parent/player orientation – expectations, what a season looks like, practices, commitment. 
The coaches will then put players through 1 Ä‚ -2 hours of stretching, conditioning, skills, drills, and team play.

Do players need to attend all the tryouts?
If your schedule allows, attending all the tryouts is best.  While attending all the tryouts is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged for each player to make the best showing, get to know the other players and coaches.

What does a player need to bring?

Players need to come with a GREAT attitude, dressed in appropriate soccer attire and equipment, bring a personal ball (only size 5) and LOTS of water, maybe even a snack.

Questions?
Web site:  http://www.thesariders.net/
Email us at thesaridersoccer@gmail.com


For More Information: http://www.thesariders.net

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103.  TRAINING FOR CONFIDENCE MARTIAL ARTS SCHOOL IN COLLEYVILLE

Training for Confidence is a full-time martial arts school in Colleyville.

We currently have several families at our Colleyville school location who home school their children. 
We would welcome the opportunity to partner with Heart of Texas and offer discounted tuition to your members.

Discount:  Training for Confidence is offering HEART of Texas members a 25% discount off the monthly student membership fee, with a current Heart of Texas family membership card.  
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here



To Learn More:  TFCKarate.com

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104.  TURBO TECHNIQUES - FLOWER MOUND


Turbo Techniques provides a physical education class that is an hour long and focuses on enhancing speed, power, agility, core development, and balance.  
To Learn More: click here

Discount: HEART of Texas members (with current member card) receive a 20% discount!
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here




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105.  HEART OF TEXAS MENTOR PROGRAM

We are excited to announce that we are rolling out our new HEART of Texas Homeschool Mentor Program for homeschooling families! 
The purpose of the Mentor Program is to provide real-time, face-to-face, one-on-one help for new homeschool moms and dads who are starting their homeschool journey.

If you are a veteran home educator who would like the opportunity to encourage and support the next generation of home schoolers, please consider becoming a HEART Mentor.  Please email Anne regarding the program (include Mentor in subject line) and she will connect you with our Mentor Coordinator.

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106.  DFW SPEECH & DEBATE CLUB

DFW Speech & Debate is committed to providing quality communications training to help students sharpen their ability to analyze problems, think and listen critically, and communicate their ideas in an organized and compelling manner. Our communications training includes:
 
Speech & Debate Summer Camps
We train hundreds of students each summer who go on to excel in competition! Our camps are engaging and fun and serve to inspire students to cultivate their critical thinking and communication skills. We offer a wide variety of training including introductory, intermediate and advanced Speech and Debate camps, Model UN, Moot Court and much more for ages 12-18! This summer we are expanding our offerings to include Junior Speech for ages 6-11!
 
Private Coaching! - for speakers, debaters and writers who would like to advance their skills at a faster pace
Most great competitors have great coaches. Our veteran team of coaches provide individualized training for students prior to and during the school year. Coaching sessions include helping students develop a high level of competency writing AP quality essays, writing and performing speeches, and writing and arguing their debate case. See specific Coaching Services here.
 
Tools for Debate Curriculum
Most great competitors also have great TOOLS. Our easy-to-use 12-week curricula puts valuable instruction in the hands of debate students and club leaders to prepare students for Policy and Lincoln Douglas debate competition. Our curriculum includes a dual track approach to help beginners master foundational skills such as Writing a Case, 4-Point Refutation, Organization and Cross-Examination (C/X) and more. Experienced debaters will advance to the next level with round-winning techniques on C/X Strategies, and NEG strategies (e.g. identifying unproven or faulty assumptions). Packed with examples, drills, quizzes and a FREE affirmative case!
 
For More Information:  dfwspeechanddebate.com
 
Discount:  DFW Speech & Debate is offering HEART of Texas member-supporters  (with current Family ID) 10% off their Summer Camp fee.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here

 

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107.  DENTON COUNTY CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ASSOCIATION

This group has no announcements this month.

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108.  IRVING HOME SCHOOLERS

A support group for families in Irving and all surrounding communities.

Details:
We are a volunteer, non-profit organization committed to serving home school families in Irving and all surrounding communities. Our mission is to reach out to all homeschooling families - providing resource information, ongoing activities, and support. All are welcome. We meet the 1st Thursday of the month (Sept. - May except Dec.) at Lee Park in Irving.
For more information:
click here


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109.  PEACH

A support group for families in the Plano area
Click Here for More Information


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110.  OFFICIAL COLLEGE BOARD TEST DATES

2017 PSAT TEST DATES:  OCT 11, 2017
(Other options may be: Oct 14 and 25).
To Find out When Your Local High School is Offering the PSAT Test:  Click Here

PSAT TESTING FEE:  $15 (some schools charge an additional fee to cover administrative costs)
Homeschoolers who take the test at their local public school should not be charged more than the school charges its own students.  The College Board makes fee waivers available to schools for students in eleventh grade from low-income families who can't afford the test fee. See the school counselor for more information about fee waivers.  Special testing situations are also available for special needs students.  Ask the school counselor for more details.
PSAT Code for Texas Homeschoolers:  
994499

Information from College Board:
How to Get Started
Find and contact a local school that’s giving the test you want to take. Go to School Search.
Ask for the Official Student Guide, which includes a free practice test.

Start Early

Contact the school early. Our advice: Reach out at least four months before the test.

Find Out if You Can Test for Free
You might qualify for a PSAT/NMSQT fee waiver if:
*You are in 11th grade.
*Your family's annual income falls within USDA Income Eligibility Guidelines or you meet other criteria. Learn about fee waiver eligibility.

*Ask the counselor at the school where you’ll be taking the test if you qualify to take the PSAT/NMSQT for free.
* Fee waivers are not given out for the PSAT 10.

Testing with Accommodations
Students with disabilities must have College Board approval to take the PSAT/NMSQT or the PSAT 10 with accommodations. It can take up to seven weeks, so make your request early.
If you already have College Board approval, let the school know right away so that they have time to order nonstandard test materials if you need them.
Learn more about Services for Students with Disabilities

What to Bring on Test Day
*Two No. 2 pencils with erasers
*An approved calculator
*Email address (optional)
*Valid government-issued photo ID. If unavailable, students can use a notarized College Board Student ID Form (.pdf/488.05 KB).
Just as important: What not to bring


Score Reports
Score reports will be sent to your home address.


2018 SAT TEST DATES:

MAR 10 -- Registration Deadline Feb 9, 2018
MAY 5 -- Registration Deadline April 6, 2018
JUNE 2 --Registration Dealine May 3, 2018
To Register For SAT Test:  Click Here

AUG 25 --Registration Deadline TBA
OCT 6 -- Registration Deadline TBA
NOV 3 -- Registration Deadline TBA
DEC 1 -- Registration Deadline TBA
MAR 9 -- Registration Deadline TBA

For SAT Subject Test Calendar:  Click Here

For More Information:
Click Here



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111.  MASTER THE SAT CLASSES WITH JEAN BURK

College Prep Genius will be offering their incredible "MASTER THE SAT CLASS" in several Texas cities. This revolutionary course will give students all the tools needed to conquer the SAT and PSAT/NMSQT. Students will learn the logical patterns behind standardized test questions as well as necessary strategies that could help increase their test scores tremendously. A high score on the SAT or PSAT/NMSQT can open doors to college entrance and colossal scholarships that could include full tuition, room and board, honors dorms, graduate money and stipends to study abroad! Many of their students have raised their test scores as much as 600 points and received scholarhips over $200,000 from Ivy-League schools. College Prep Genius has been featured on NBC, CBS, Fox, TXA21 and The Homeschool Channel.

Their carefully selected teachers will show students how to ace the SAT so they can raise their scores and get scholarships to college. The SAT and PSAT are tests of logic (not high school subjects) and most students do poorly on them because they don't understand the test. She will teach how to look at the test questions correctly so they don't fall for the wrong answer and she will not only explain why the right answer is right but also why the wrong answer is wrong. Students will gain confidence in their test-taking skills and be given the necessary tools for scoring high on these standardized tests.

Watch College Prep Genius founder, Jean Burk, give speeches on "How to Ace the SAT" and "Free College Can Happen to You" click here

What's Covered in Class:
"Master the SAT Class” is a thorough investigation of the SAT and PSAT including an extensive review of all three test sections: Critical Reading, Math, and Writing.


Register at collegeprepgenius.com

Download the e-book “15 Secrets to FREE College” for a penny at www.collegeprepgenius.com  Use code: heart

Discount:  College Prep Genius is offering a $5 discount off classes and products to HEART of Texas family members.  You must have a valid membership card to qualify for the discount.
To learn about HEART of Texas membership: Click Here
To view our ever-expanding list of partners:  
Click Here
                     
 
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112.  BAYLOR & AIR FORCE ROTC (AFROTC) SCHOLARSHIP

Baylor and Air Force ROTC (AFROTC) have teamed up to provide an enormous scholarship opportunity to help students afford a Christian college education while pursuing their dream in a career in aviation, medicine, science, engineering, law, space, business, etc. 

To Apply:  Visit http://www.afrotc.com/ and fill out the on-line application.


Highlights:

• We appreciate the homeschooled student and know first-hand the talent and intellect they offer.  Our Cadet Wing Commander last Fall was homeschooled and she was outstanding!
 
• Who do we want to help?  Your students interested in leadership who are about to graduate, applying to a
 (Baylor would be a great Plan B), excels academically, involved in Eta Sigma Alpha or other honor societies and service organizations, as well as competitors of all kinds.

 
• The application deadline for AFROTC high school scholarships is December 1, 2012. 

• AFROTC’s best scholarship (Type 1) pays full tuition and fees (~$25,000/year at Baylor).
The second best scholarship (Type 2) pays $15,000/year. 
The majority of our cadets are on these two types of scholarships.

 
• Baylor is very generous with their merit scholarships which range from $3,000–$14,000/year.  Have your student go to http://www.baylor.edu/admissions/calculator/ and input their ACT/SAT scores and class ranking into the Scholarship Calculator to see what they could be offered.  You will be amazed.
 
•  If your student receives an AFROTC high school scholarship and brings it to Baylor, they will receive the Baylor AFROTC Incentive Scholarship worth $3,000/year.  They get this just by simply bringing the AFROTC scholarship to Baylor!
 
•  Students on scholarship also receive $900/year for books and a monthly, tax-free stipend of $300-$500.  They can use this stipend however they like (cheeseburgers and coffee??).
 
•  A student with a high school scholarship can try AFROTC their freshman year, and if they decide not to continue, they can simply walk away without having to pay back their scholarship.  No kidding!
 
•  If your student does not receive a high school scholarship, there’s an even greater opportunity to receive an AFROTC scholarship once they are at Baylor.  AFROTC has a $60 million scholarship budget to award scholarships from and as of the end of the Spring semester, 86% of Baylor cadets were on scholarship.
 
•  Baylor AFROTC is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year (the Air Force is 61 years old) and for the first time in our history, we are opening an AFROTC Living & Learning Center where cadets have the option to live among themselves.  Visit http://www.baylor.edu/rotc/llc/ for more information.

•  If you would like to come for a visit, we have a “Bunk with a Bear” program where your students can spend the night with a cadet, attend classes, eat with them, meet other cadets, take the campus tour, talk to academic advisors, and get the feel of Baylor. 

For More Information:  Click here to email or call 254-710-3513.


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113.  VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES AVAILABLE for HOME SCHOOLERS IN 21 COUNTIES ---- AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY

The American Cancer Society is the largest nonprofit voluntary organization in the world. The Society depends on the competence, creativity and dedication of its 2 million volunteers nationwide to   achieve   its   mission.  Along  with  learning  the value  of volunteering in your community we can offer your home schooled student a way to apply all they are learning in a real world atmosphere.

Counties in the North Texas Region of the American Cancer Society:  Dallas, Tarrant, Denton, Rockwall, Parker, Palo Pinto, Wise, Cooke, Grayson, Fannin, Collin, Hunt, Rains, Kaufman, Ellis, Johnson, Eastland, Comanche, Erath, Hood, Rockwall

For more information:  817-570-0612 or Click Here to email
                                  

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114.  BECOME A HOST FAMILY FOR A FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT THROUGH INTO EdVENTURES HIGH SCHOOL EXCHANGE ORGANIZATION

Learn to Laugh in Another Language!

INTO EdVENTURES High School Exchange Organization offers you the opportunity to host a young high school student from another nation in your own home...let these incredible young people from other countries  show you their culture, up close and personal.  Welcome them as a son or daughter...touch their lives, and change their world, and your's too.  The experience will teach you and your children how another family lives across the world, while they, in turn, learn about you and the American culture...many of them love to cook and share themselves and their family with you.. They become part of your family for a lifetime.

Share your heart, your faith, your family and your home with a high school foreign exchange student. 

IF you have children at home, they can learn so much and make a life long friend.  If you do not have kids at home you will LOVE the new dimensions they will add to your life, and the new life they will give to your home.

There are boys and girls ages 15-18 from South america, Asia and Europe.  They bring their wide-eyed enthusiasm and a desire to learn our culture, and in turn share their's.

They will attend your local high school for the academic year.

IF THIS SPEAKS TO YOUR HEART...you can make a huge difference in a young person's life.  You will touch a nation, and change the world!!

All host families are volunteer
Who can become a Host Family:  
Young families with small children, families with teens, empty nesters, grand parents, even single parents!

Our host families must provide:  Room, Board, Food, and Transportation.  Host families
Must also be financially able to take in another child.

The students have:  Full health insurance coverage and their own spending money ($200-$300/month, which takes care of personal things or extra things they want, and school activity expenses).  These will not have to be provided by the host family.

Student information:  Our students are boys and girls ranging in age from 15-18.  They are from South America, Asia, and Europe.   They arrive the third week of August, hopefully a week or two before school starts.

They will attend the LOCAL HIGH SCHOOL for either the ENTIRE ACADEMIC YEAR...OR ONE SEMESTER (either spring for fall)  

INTO EdVENTURES will share with the prospective host families the student's & letters to the host family from the student and their parents...  

How are families and students matched:  We do our best to match common interests, etc.  And once a match is made, host families can begin communicating with their new "son/daughter"...usually, the student overseas emails as soon as they hear they have been placed with a family...  THEN, MEETING THEM AT THE AIRPORT IN AUGUST… IS AWESOME!!

For more information:  817-545-5058  or Click Here to email    


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115.  VOLUNTEER AT THE FORT WORTH ZOO -- WEEKDAY HOME SCHOOL VOLUNTEENS PROGRAM

The Fort Worth Zoo's Weekday Home School Volunteens Program provides home-schooled teens, ages 12-17, the opportunity to assist Fort Worth Zoo Preschool teachers by helping set up, clean up, and assist students with crafts and excursions into the Zoo.

Volunteens come in once a week, for half of the day -- either from 8:45am to 12:15pm or from 12:45pm to 4:15pm.
The fall session runs from September to December;  the spring sessions runs from January to May.

Applications are completed online and interviews are scheduled after the final application date.  After interviewing all applicangs, the Education staff will make selections.  Selected Volunteens are required to attend a mandatory orientation prior to the start of the semester.

For More Information, or to Apply:
 Click Here


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116.  MEALS ON WHEELS, INC. OF TARRANT COUNTY SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS AND FRIENDSHIP

Meals on Wheels, Inc. of Tarrant County is a community based agency that provides meals to the homebound in Tarrant County. Delivering meals is a great community service as well as a unique learning opportunity, and we welcome students, along with adults, to be involved in the meal delivery.  Our clients depend on volunteers to deliver hot, nutritious meals along with care and compassion.

Several home school families currently volunteer for our program and we would like you to join us. 
Weekly and substitute volunteers are needed now. 
Meals are picked up from local distribution sites and delivered to homes within close proximity. 
Delivery typically takes about hour. 
If you join our volunteer team you will feel great ensuring that several Tarrant County neighbors
have received food and a friendly visit.


From a Homeschool Mom's Perspective–by Trudi L.
Benson (age 10) and I started delivering meals when he was two years old.   It's been a very rewarding experience.  We both have learned so much and met some really nice people along the way.  I incorporate our volunteer activities into our daily lessons.
Math:  We count the number of clients, meals, and milks on a route sheet; use a lot of addition and subtraction.
Reading and Spelling:  Letters and words are everywhere on a route sheet.
Science and Health:  We've learned about diabetes and good nutrition.  We also talk about different disabilities.
Social Studies/Geography: We interact with people from different socioeconomic groups.  as we deliver meals, we discuss surrounding terrain, lakes, rivers, and the weather.  Map reading skills are also developed.
Community Service:  By providing hot, nutritious meals, we help a lot of people in our community.

For More Information:  817-336-0912


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117.  MEALS ON WHEELS OF JOHNSON & ELLIS COUNTIES SEEKS HOMESCHOOL FAMILIES TO DELIVER HOT MEALS

Volunteers Needed!!!
Meals-on-Wheels of Johnson and Ellis Counties serves the children of yesterday by helping needy elderly and disabled persons to remain independent and healthy in their own homes by providing home-delivered meals, daily personal contact, and support for individuals and their families. 

Meals-on-Wheels could not operate one day without the help of volunteers.  Dedicated, caring volunteers assist in providing hot, noontime meals.  Not only do our volunteers deliver nutritious meals, they also ensure the safety of our clients.  Daily contact is as important as the meals we serve. 

A meal route takes approximately 45 minutes to deliver with convenient pick-up sites located throughout each county.  By volunteering, you help bring hope, love, and friendship to the elderly and disabled homebound in your community. 

To Volunteer:  817-558-2840 or 972-351-9943.


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118.  VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO SERVE MEALS AT THE STEWPOT IN DALLAS

Is your family or support group looking for an opportunity to help the needy?
The Stewpot is a 501c(3) organization that reaches out to the homeless of Dallas by providing meals and other services.  The Stewpot serves 3 meals a day, every single day of the year.  To meet this great need, The Stewpot is seeking volunteers  (individuals or groups of 10-15) to serve a meal once a month.

For more information:  214-746-2785 ext. 320 or Click Here    

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119.  TEXAS GLOBAL EDUCATION AND CULTURAL EXCHANGE PROGRAM

Experience the world and expand your family's horizons this summer!
Open your heart and your home to a global visitor and enable your teenager to stay with a family abroad. 

Details: Texas Global Education and Cultural Exchange provides several one-month home-stay opportunities.
Home-stays (instead of staying in a hotel) have many advantages:
•Experience life from the inside - not as a tourist
•Learn, appreciate, understand and evaluate another culture - and your own
•Establish a close relationship with someone - from another culture
•Develop cross-cultural understanding through communication and interaction

The focus of a cultural exchange is friendship, but lasting friendships and warm memories aren't the only results. Young people who have the opportunity to live with a host family in a foreign country or to host an international youth in their home enjoy a priceless educational experience that better prepares them for a life in a global society.
 
For more information: Call 940.241.3097
Info.texasglobaleducation@gmail.com
www.texasglobaleducation.org


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120. FREE ORGAN RECITALS IN DALLAS

FREE ORGAN RECITALS

Time: 12pm-12:30pm (followed by a one hour tour of the Center)
Cost: FREE

Location:  Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center, 2301 Flora, Dallas, 75201
Details: Recital given by Mary Preston, resident organist with the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, on the Lay Family Concert Organ. This 30 minute presentation will be followed by a one-hour tour of the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
Reservations not required, but requested for groups of 15 or more.
For More Information or for a Group Reservation: 
214-670-3331

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121. READING PROGRAMS 2017

Barnes & Noble -- Read 8 Books & Earn a Free Book
Download the Reading Journal.
Read any 8 books this summer
Record them in the Reading Journal
Bring completed Journal to Barnes & Noble store
Choose your Free Reading adventure from the book list featured on the back of the Journal.


Chuck E. Cheese -- Read 14 Day & Get 10 free tokens

Half Price Books -- Read 300 minutes each month for $5 Bookworm Bucks
8th Grade & Under:  Read 15 minutes a day for a month in June & July (grown ups may read aloud to kids who are still learning).  
Download the Reading Log.
Program runs through July.  HPB Bookworm Bucks coupons are valid through August 27.
High School: Read a book each month in June & July and write a short review. No reading log.
Just bring your review to your local Half Price Books to claim your Bookworm Bucks.
Submit your review here starting June 1.

H.E.Buddy Reading Program
-- Read 10 books for tee shirt & prizes.
Download Reading Log.
Program is intended solely for children who are residents of Texas between the ages of 3-12.

PBS Summer Reading Camp -- Everything you need for 10 fun weeks of reading
Weekly Themes:  Bugs, Heroes, Reading Quest, Animal Antics, Make Music, Dragons & Dinos,
Play Outside, Get Wet!, Sports & Games, and World of Words
Must Subscribe to Education.com to Access

Public Library Reading Programs -- Click here to locate a library near you.



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You are receiving this newsletter because you have requested it through our website or on a sign-up sheet at an event or at a booth.

If you enjoy this newsletter, please consider becoming a member supporter!  For $30 a year, your family can receive all of the benefits of membership, including $20 off THSC annual membership, discounts at various area homeschool stores and other businesses and organizations that have partnered with us.  

Support groups can also partner with us for just $25/year, which includes a FREE HEART of Texas family membership for the primary leader of the group. Board Members of Partnering Support Groups will also receive a discounted rate to our annual Leadership Conference.  

To learn more about becoming a member supporter:  www.heartoftex.org/resources/membership 
To view our growing list of partners:  www.heartoftex.org/partners/

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HEART of Texas     P.O. Box 211882    Bedford, TX  76095-1882    http://www.heartoftex.org