2024 PAACH Homeschool Convention

2024 Homeschool Convention

 

Keynote Speakers

 

Rachael Carman

Rachael Carman

Rachael challenges mothers to surrender their will and draw closer to the Lord. She invites them to join her in loving God passionately and worshiping him fully while sweeping up Cheerios, doing laundry, and planning dinner. Be affirmed as Rachael speaks of her struggles with perfectionism and impatience and shares her challenges, failures, and victories amid the ever-changing seasons of life. Her honesty will surprise you, and her humor will put you at ease. Rachel owns Apologia Educational Ministries and is a respected speaker and author who travels the word speaking at conferences and retreats, teaching God's Word to parents and children.

Friday, March 15 Keynote - 9 a.m. in the Sanctuary

In This Moment

So here we are. Most of us would have chosen something different than what we’ve recently had to face. I mean really, who would have signed up for the crazy chaos that has characterized the last two years? Not me. But, if I believe in a sovereign God, and if I believe that He has a plan, and if I believe that He has a role for me to play, and I do, then how do I lean into that God and His plan? And what is my role in this cultural moment? Let’s take a look at some other similarly chaotic cultural moments in Scripture and see what we can learn from those who’ve gone before us. This is our moment. Let’s dare to live it for Him.

 

Rachael's Workshops:

What About “That” Child? 2.0 - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 105

The first thing you must know is that you’re not alone if you have one. And the second thing you need to know is that they’re sent to you as a blessing. If those two things seem unimaginable, if you’re thinking, “if you only knew,”. Well, I do. I’ve got one too. So, what face comes to mind when you hear the phrase ‘That” child? Do you smile or scowl when you see that face? Do you see yourself in that face? Do you struggle to like that child? Does it seem difficult? Impossible? I want you to know: That child is a world changer. God has a plan for that child. All of that energy, all those questions, all that strength, all THAT, is God-given for His glory. Come learn strategies for learning to love that child, to embrace that child, to train that child. They are worth it and He is worthy!

Mary, Martha, You & Me - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 105

So, do you tend to sit at the feet of Jesus or rush around chasing after the items on your to-do list? Do you understand who He is? Do you know He is able? Are you concerned about what other people think more than what He requires? Mary and Martha’s inclusion in the biblical narrative is both raw and refreshing. Two women, sisters, two responses to Jesus on two different occasions. Let’s look again at the two snapshots from the gospels and see what we can learn and apply to our lives.

Attention: Obsessive-Compulsive, Perfectionistic, Control-Freaks CHILL OUT! - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 105

As an obsessive-compulsive-perfectionist-control-freak herself, Rachael discusses how in many instances she is her own worst enemy when it comes to taking advantage of the freedoms of homeschool. Are you tied to your plan? Do you shiver at the idea of change or adjustment? Are you missing out on significant moments because you are focused on the trivial? It’s time to Chill Out and give control of it all to God for He is faithful.

 

Kelly Crawford

Kelly Crawford

Kelly and her husband Aaron live on a farm in the Deep South, enjoying a (mostly) quiet life with 7 of their 11 children still at home. Kelly has been blogging since 2007, encouraging women in their roles as mothers and wives, and running several small businesses from home. She is also the author of several books and has been featured on radio and in magazines, and occasionally speaks on topics of motherhood, home industry and homeschooling.

Saturday, March 16 Keynote - 9 a.m. in the Sanctuary

School vs. Education: Taking Stress out of Homeschooling

A practical, logical look at schooling vs. education. Should we question the status quo? Helping parents relax and enjoy the homeschool journey instead of trying to replicate the system which can bring undue stress. Goal: to help home educating parents "think outside the classroom.

 

Kelly's Workshops:

When Motherhood Feels Too Hard - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in the Sanctuary

Mothers have a difficult job as it is, exacerbated by culture's disdain of children and a devaluing of motherhood. Sometimes it can feel too hard. Based on my book, this session is a rally cry, a powerful, vision-casting for moms. It will inspire, encourage and renew the focus on our mission: the eternal work of raising soldiers for Christ and our sanctification through the process.

Raising Entrepreneurs (and Why it Matters) - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in the Sanctuary

As an entrepreneurial family, I share how to inspire your young entrepreneurs and why it's so important in the realm of building the Kingdom.

God’s Heart Toward Children - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary

A closer look at fertility through the eyes of the Creator, questioning our culture's disdain of motherhood and child-bearing, and reminding mothers of their critical role in the Kingdom work of raising disciples.

The Mission Field of Motherhood (Psst… It’s Enough) - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in the Sanctuary

While most mission work is elevated to a status of honor and respect, motherhood isn't usually viewed the same way, even within the church. Consequently, many women are overloaded by church ministry, fueled by guilt, while their mission field at home suffers. It's time for us to tell mothers that discipling the next generation is enough.

Practical Help Living on One Income - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in the Sanctuary

Based on personal experience, this session will offer encouragement, motivation and practical ideas for those struggling financially, as well as examples of how God can profoundly use financial trials in our lives for our good.

 


Family Night with the Anderson Family

 


Ministry Thru Harmony

Friday, March 15 - 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the Sanctuary

The Anderson Family, from Congerville, IL has enjoyed blending their voices and instruments in Bluegrass Gospel music since discovering their love for family harmony over 10 years ago. Karla and Zach were married in 2005 and have 5 children, Caiden (17), Laiken (16), Ellie (14), Colton (11), and Alayna (8). They began feeling the Lord leading them to share this blessing of music with others and out of this came the name “Ministry Thru Harmony”. Their family has recorded three albums and performs locally at various family and community events.

 


Workshop Speakers

 

Rachel Anderson

Rachel Anderson

Rachel has been homeschooling for many years. She is married to wonderful husband Steve and has been blessed with four children. Prior to homeschooling she graduated from Cincinnati Christian University with degrees in Music and Business. She worked in Human Resources at the Information Technology Department and as a Worship Minister at her local church. Once she had children and started to homeschool, she realized that two of her children have learning struggles, one with moderate/severe Dyslexia, ADHD and memory deficiency. As a result, she has done considerable research learning how to teach the ‘Struggling Learner’ and loves to pass on her knowledge and experience to other parents looking for help. Learn more at rightstartmath.com

Rachel's Workshops:

Successfully Homeschool Your Child with Special Needs or Learning Struggles - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 205

The idea of homeschooling a child with special needs or learning struggles may seem overwhelming, but there is freedom when you understand that the requirements and red tape in the school systems do not apply to you. Not only can you provide consistent instruction using strategies that work for your child, but you can tailor their education based on their specific needs and interests.

Learning Challenges in Math? Challenge NO MORE! - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 205

Teaching math is not for the faint of heart. Mix in a child with learning challenges and you may end up becoming discouraged and be tempted to throw in the towel. Be encouraged, you are NOT alone. Whether your child has been diagnosed with a learning challenge or simply doesn’t ‘get’ math, we can help. In this workshop, you will learn teaching strategies and techniques that will help a child with learning challenges learn.

Homeschooling Children with Different Learning Styles - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 205

Each child is unique and has specific strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles. So, how do you teach such a wide variety of learners in your homeschool? Start by looking at your child’s needs, strengths, and interests. Then, look at your skill sets. And finally, find the curriculum or learning environment that best meets the needs of your family.

 

Nancy Bjorkman

Nancy Bjorkman

After years of being a homeschool skeptic, Nancy began homeschooling her children in 1992. Now, after 20+ years teaching her four children, she has become known as the Homeschool Mom Whisperer for many and a champion of the cause. She is a certified teacher and has spoken at homeschool conferences in over 10 states where she is known for her enthusiasm, energy, and encouragement. Having graduated all of her children, Nancy finds it exciting to have graduated herself to being a mentor for other homeschool families. Though she stays busy as a bookstore owner, mentor, and speaker, her favorite times are spent with her growing family (grandkids - yeah!). She and her husband own Heppner's Legacy, a homeschool store in Elk River, MN, where they delight in ministering to the unique needs of families year round, and where parents say, “Come for the books. Stay for the therapy.™”

Nancy's Workshops:

Homeschooling through High School – Part 1 of 2 - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 202

This very popular, interactive workshop will help to answer frequently asked questions about homeschooling through the high school years. We will consider course requirements, transcripts, record keeping, curriculum choices, dual enrollment opportunities, co-ops, CLEP and other testing options, resumes, career assessments, and more. Attendees will leave with the tools necessary and the confidence needed to homeschool through high school.

Homeschooling through High School – Part 2 of 2 - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 202

This is a continuation of Part 1.

 

Allen Brokken

Allen Brokken

Allen is a teacher at heart, a husband and father most of all. He's a joyful writer by the abundant grace of God. He began writing the Towers of Light series for his own children to help him illustrate the deep truths of the Bible in an engaging and age appropriate way. He’s dedicated 18 years of his life to volunteer roles in children’s ministry and youth development. Now that his own children are off to college he’s telling stories and sharing clean humor on social media @allenbrokkenauthor, and through his website allenbrokkenauthor.com.

Allen's Workshops:

The Weird World of Science with Dr. Fantastic & Beeper (Ages 5+) - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 207

Allen will bring science experiments and activities to astound and amaze young children. He'll be accompanied by distinguished scientist Dr. Fantastic and his assistant Beeper as they explore concepts in the physical sciences.

Novel Writing Workshop – Part 1 of 2 (Ages 9+) - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 210

Allen, an award-winning middle-grade author, will cover the major elements of storytelling with a worksheet you or your student can use to develop the structural elements of a story during the class.

Workshop Agenda

  • Setting
  • Character
  • Conflict & Suspense
  • Plot
  • Putting It All Together

Novel Writing Workshop – Part 2 of 2 (Ages 9+) - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 210

This is a continuation of Part 1.

 

Davis Carman

Davis Carman

Davis got started on his homeschool adventure with a providential two-by-four on the side of his head. Twenty-three years, seven kids, and five graduates later, he hopes to share some of the lessons he’s learned along the way to help other families enjoy the most successful, satisfying, and Christ-centered home school possible. He is the president of Apologia Educational Ministries, the #1 publisher of Creation-based science and Bible curriculum. He is an international speaker, founding board member of Homeschool Now USA, and advocate for home education. He is also the author of five illustrated children’s books and co-host (along with his wife Rachael) of the Let’s Talk Homeschool podcast. He believes that if there was ever a time to homeschool, it is now!

New to Homeschooling Night!

Give Me One Good Reason to Homeschool - Thursday, March 14 - 6:30 p.m. | Sanctuary

Are parents really qualified to teach their children everything? What about socialization? These are just a couple of the concerns that make homeschooling seem impossible. But you know homeschooling is continuing to grow. More and more families are considering it and taking the plunge. What are the top reasons? In this session, Davis discusses the moral, academic, and practical reasons to homeschool, and helps dispel the myths we all tend to believe. When you finish this workshop, you will know that if there was ever a time to homeschool, it is now.

 

Davis's Workshops:

What We Believe: Biblical Worldview Education at Home - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 105

With statistics showing that 75% or more teens leave the Christian faith within a few years after they leave home, it is critical that parents give a solid biblical worldview education to their children when they are young. How is this to be accomplished? In this session, Davis addresses some of the most important questions a person will ever ask including “Who is God?” and “Who am I?” Once a person has a biblical worldview of God, Truth, and Self-Image, then they can tackle the questions of “Who is my neighbor?” and “What on earth can I do?” You may already know why it is important to teach your children what you believe. Now come find out what to teach them and how it can be done. Their eternal future may be at stake.

Dating, Courtship & Marriage Prep - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 204

Navigating the whole dating issue is a biggie. For one, what is the difference between dating and courting? When should a parent allow their teen or young adult to begin traveling down this path? Before we get ahead of ourselves, when should parents start these conversations with their kids? Prepared or not, all of this dating and courting will likely result in a wedding. I know you want your kids to enjoy the blessings of a healthy marriage, but it doesn’t just happen. As a matter of fact, the statistics are not good when it comes to how the “hook-up” generation views marriage or practices dating. Will your young adult make a wise decision? Will they seek godly counsel? Will they navigate these deep waters well and enjoy a marriage that is a life-long blessing or will bad decisions lead to a lifetime of relational difficulties? Davis will share many practical tips and two main principles that have proved helpful in their own journey.

 

CIBAD


CIBAD Speech Team

CIBAD (Central Illinois Born Again Defenders) is a local speech and debate organization that is dedicated to teaching students to "Thinking Biblically, Speaking Winsomely and Acting Graciously." By learning different forms of communication such as platform speeches, interpretive speeches, limited preparation speeches, and classical argumentation, our students gain skills that allow them to be "ready for the Master's use and prepared unto every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21) Our fall classes are dedicated to apologetics, speech, and debate while in the spring our students compete in tournaments hosted by the National Christian Forensics and Communication Association. (NCFCA).

CIBAD's Workshop:

Storytelling Workshop (Ages 5+) - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 207

Everybody loves a good story! In fact, we were created to enjoy listening and telling stories by God, the author of the greatest story ever told. In this workshop we will explore the elements of good storytelling through games and interactive activities. You will also enjoy listening to some great stories told by our CIBAD speech and debate students. Developing good storytelling skills prepares us to be a part of God's plan to share His truth and love with others.

 

James & Arkasia Cox

James & Arkasia Cox

James is the current president of PAACH (since 2019) and has been married to his wife, Arkasia, for 24 years. Together they have six children, whom they have been homeschooling for the past 19 years. James has a bachelor's degree in Biblical and Theological Studies with a focus on family discipleship from Liberty University. He is a certified HVAC Technician with 20 years experience, and together they run a family business.

James & Arkasia's Workshops:

I’m a Homeschooling Dad… What Should I Do? - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 206

Come hear the vision for building your homeschool around family discipleship. Get a blueprint and tools to help you build a God-honoring homeschool families.

How to Homeschool Legally in the State of Illinois - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 206

How do you know what is legally required of you in order to homeschool in the state of Illinois? Come find out all the requirements. (Hint: It’s not much) Do you have to fill out any forms? What do you need to tell the school if you are withdrawing your child? Come hear tips and answers to these questions and more. Will Estrada, HSLDA attorney for Illinois, will be included in our meeting via Zoom so bring your questions. This is a great workshop if you are just starting out or have been homeschooling for a few years.

Tools for Building a Strong Marriage - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 206

A good marriage doesn’t just happen, it must be built with intention. The Bible gives us God’s plan for marriage. Come learn some tools to help you build a stronger marriage.

 

Daniel Currier

Daniel Currier

Is your family prepared for society’s secular pressure? Daniel is one of the university “ground guys,” helping lead a campus apologetics group. He also speaks and writes on issues that challenge your family’s faith. He also administers various apologetic social media pages and groups.

Daniel's Workshops:

Answers to 5 “God is a Moral Monster” Bible Objections Heard at University - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 204

Did God condone slavery? How about the suppression of women? Is he a homophobe? Is your student prepared for these real challenges on campus? This talk aims to address some of these and equip you and your students with answers. Equipping Students and Parents

Answers to 5 Biblical Credibility Issues You Will Hear at University - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 204

Many try to point out perceived Bible problems. How would you answer “the Bible is full of contradictions,” or “the Bible is full of fictitious creatures” or “the Bible is scientifically inaccurate”? This talk will help equip you to answer some of these common objections. Equipping Students and Parents

 

Brian & Carla Estell

Carla Estell

Brian and Carla Estell are both graduates of Liberty University in Lynchburg, VA. They have been involved in Christian education since 1988 both in the home and classroom setting. In 1998 they began a part-time creation ministry called “The Stones’ True Story” which focuses on the truth of God’s Word, especially in the area of the creation week and the world wide flood. Brian continued teaching for a total of 17 years before going fulltime with the creation ministry in 2009. For the next 7 years they and their 6 “van schooled” children traveled through 48 states visiting many geological sites, collecting fossils and sharing at camps, schools and churches. In 2016 they relocated to Illinois where Brian now works full time for Samaritan Ministries while Carla continues to homeschool and tutor. They are still available for local seminars and part time travels. More information about their ministry can be found at stonestruestory.org.

Carla's Workshops:

Search for Truth (Ages 5+) - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 207

Your kids won’t want to miss this year’s lineup of classes. With a stage decorated with palm trees, flowers and birds, we will explore nature and geology as we discover which offers the best scientific explanation – creation or evolution. Kids today are bombarded with so called “facts of science”. As we explore nature we will learn how to tell the difference between creative imagination and true facts.

God the Creator is Still in Control (Ages 5+) - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 207

Kids today are bombarded with “facts” which cause anxiety and fear. They need to be reminded that God is still in control. We are going to tackle the question of climate change from a Biblical and scientific perspective. If you think that sounds a bit too heavy for kids, don’t worry, I’ll bring it down to their level. If parents want to sit in – you are more than welcome!

The Wonder of Trees (Ages 5+) - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 207

This is a fun botany class designed for 5-12 year olds. We will use hand motions, rhyming phrases, pictures and charts to learn the wonder of a tree from seed to flower, from cell to leaf. We will also take a look at some very unusual trees from around the world. (This will be a condensed class from what was offered 4 years ago – Although there will be no workbook or crafts, I will have a few workbooks for sale at my booth which were leftover if your older child would like to take notes and later do activities at home)

Come & Glean - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 204

This one is for the parents. I will teach you as many tricks of the trade as I can fit into an hour. From how to teach reading or math using pictures and patterns, how to homeschool on a shoestring budget to how to incorporate older children in teaching the younger, I’ll pass on to you what I’ve learned through my 25 years of homeschooling six children. If there is time, I’ll also share ideas of family ministry with nursing home visits to back yard parties, bonfires and skits.

 

Stacy Farrell

Stacy Farrell

Surprised by Jesus, Stacy went from an unmarried, childless, 30-something career woman to a Christ-following wife of 30+ years with two sons she homeschooled K-12. Author of 20+ books — including the award-winning Philosophy Adventure and Food Prep Guide: A Plan for Money-Saving, Self-Sustaining Abundance in Hard Times — she loves to equip and encourage homeschool families. Visit her at HomeschoolAdventure.com and FoodPrepGuide.com.

Stacy's Workshops:

Philosophy Adventure: Essential Skills for a Changing World - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 208

The world is changing. Now more than ever, we want to equip our students to be critical thinkers and effective communicators—especially since Christians are called to “...destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to obey Christ” (2 Corinthians 10:5). To do so, we must first be awakened to the ungodly messages assaulting us... and learn how to counter those messages with Truth. Come learn how we can teach our children to write skillfully, think critically, and speak articulately as they engage with the world of ideas.

A Liberating Look at Time Management Strategies - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 208

You care about how you invest your time. You’re trying hard to maximize your potential. Some days you feel like a “rock star.” Other days, not so much. Too often, you simply feel exhausted. So many people depend on you. Life’s demands are relentless. There’s no time to rest. Despite your best efforts, your “to do” list grows faster than you can possibly cross things off. Life feels crazy and chaotic... like things are spinning out of control. But you’re not content with the chaos. You’re reaching for something better. Come learn five time management strategies that can help you escape the chaos and make the most of your days!

From Atheist to Apologist: Lessons from the Life of C.S. Lewis, the Great Christian Storyteller - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 208

In this “Age of Tolerance,” Christians are in danger of forgetting what distinguishes the worldview of the believer from that of the unbeliever. Rather than allow the world to introduce moral matters to your children — discover how you can use the life and work of C. S. Lewis as a powerful tool to help your students gain a Biblical perspective on those timeless philosophical questions which inevitably arise in the mind of any truth seeker.

Creative Freewriting Adventure – Bring Joy & Excitement into Your Student’s Writing - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 208

Learn how you can inspire your students to think critically and biblically—and develop essential writing skills—using methods that help unleash their creativity. Even students who considered themselves “non-writers” have produced surprisingly creative work using these techniques.

5 Skills You Can Learn (& Teach!) This Year to Cut Grocery Costs - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 208

As homeschoolers, we have the liberty to teach critical life skills beyond the textbooks — including how to manage a grocery budget. There are practical ways to shave costs in the kitchen, but it requires skills that are in danger of extinction... if we don’t learn and pass them down to the next generation. Come chat with me about life skills that bless the family pantry and connect us to real food while saving money!

Are We Battling an Epidemic of Rudeness? - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 208

Do you look at our “selfie” society and wonder how to cultivate in your child’s heart love and respect for others? Sometimes, it’s the little things that are easy to overlook—like holding the door or listening intently. Our sin nature dictates that good manners don’t come naturally. Discover simple steps you can take with your children to help them reflect the love of Jesus through Godly manners.


Carlos & Jessica Gonzales

Carlos & Jessica Gonzales

Hello! We are Carlos and Jessica Gonzalez. We have been married for 23 years. Our homeschooling journey began when our oldest of five children was five years old. Our 18 year old son is now in college and we are currently homeschooling our other four children, the youngest of which are nine year old boy/girl twins. We are thankful to be on this homeschool ride with our children! Carlos and Jessica are past PAACH board members.

Carlos & Jessica's Workshop:

Expectations in Marriage - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 206

Join us as we discuss our expectations we’ve had going into marriage, raising children, and into homeschooling. We will also discuss God’s expectations to help us build our foundation as we go through our building our family foundation upon Him.

 

Robert Herrmann

Robert Herrmann

Robert is a father of 7 with 3 teenage sons. He is a lay-pastor at the Princeville Apostolic Christian Church and is a mechanical engineer who operates a local family business in Peoria called Rheo Engineering. He grew up along with the dawn of the internet and has used this technology extensively for work and personal purposes. He has a passion for equipping the church to navigate the world of information technology as we raise our families.

Robert's Workshop:

Neuroscience & Technology: A Christian Perspective - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 203

The internet offers many possibilities but also presents inherent hazards to the Christian. Recent discoveries in neuroscience can inform our understanding of how this advanced communication technology can exploit how our brains have been designed. This session will explore these ideas and present some practical suggestions to equip our families in the information age.

 

Sheryl Kaiser

Sheryl Kaiser

Sheryl went to Illinois Central College for her Interpreting Certificate, then on to Illinois State for her BA Degree, and has been a Sign Language Interpreter for 12 years now. She has interpreted in a variety of settings including K-12, football, musicals, college courses, and various meetings. Currently she resides in Morton with her husband and two daughters. She is a full-time Mom, and part-time Interpreter at Illinois State University.

Sheryl's Workshops:

American Sign Language Class – Part 1 of 2 (Ages 12+) - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 210

This session will be a short introduction to American Sign Language. Participants will learn the manual alphabet, numbers 1-10, and basic communication skills as well as valuable Deaf Culture information. Opportunity to practice and use the language will be provided for a hands-on experience. $20 per student (includes both sessions) | 15 student max

American Sign Language Class – Part 2 of 2 (Ages 12+) - Session 3, Friday 3 p.m. in Room 210

This is a continuation of Part 1.


Andrew Linder

Andrew Linder

Andrew is a husband and the father of four awesome kids. He is the founder of GodlyParent.com and author of the book, Godly Parenting in an Ungodly World. He is passionate about intentional parenting and helping parents and leaders effectively reach the next generation.

Andrew's Workshops:

The 4 Parenting Seasons & How to Maximize Each One - Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 105

As parents, we only get 18 years. Yet this overall parenting season is itself composed of four smaller seasons that, if understood and executed biblically, will lead to godly parenting success. Like a good farmer, a wise parent will tap into the laws of sowing and reaping by having a game plan for doing the right things at the right times. In this session, you’ll learn what are a child’s greatest needs and a parent’s greatest responsibilities in each season.

Grace-Based Parenting: How to Raise Not Just Good but Godly Kids - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 105

Raising Christian kids in today’s world is tough but not impossible. The key is found in parenting your child’s heart not just their head. However, many Christian parents settle for raising good kids instead of godly adults by trying to control their child’s behavior rather than cultivate their child’s heart. And there’s a big difference. God has trusted parents with the amazing privilege of raising a human life and directing an eternal soul. This requires more than just managing how a child acts in the moment, but an intentional effort at tapping into a child’s heart for a lifetime through true vs. traditional Christian parenting.

 

Scott and Kristina Meyers


Scott & Kristina Meyers

We will be married 20 years on June 12, 2024, and have been homeschooling for 13 years. God's faithfulness has kept us and grown us to be more like Jesus and less selfish. We are passionate about the mission Jesus provided for in his death and instructed in his life; to preach the gospel and make disciples. God's direction, protection, and provision have given us the grace we need each day to grow in our faith, marriage, and raise our 10 children to know Jesus and impact the world around them.

Scott & Kristina's Workshop:

Marriage Myths & Legends Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 206

It is wonderful to have God's clear guidance in regard to marriage. The culture we live in and Christdom at large have distorted and ignored God's pattern for marriage and Jesus example in sacrifice. Join us for an interactive session exploring the what God says about Roles, Finances, and Children in a Christ centric home. Our hope is that we all go away better equipped and encouraged to live counter-culturally and boldly living the gospel of Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians 1:25 ESV) For the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men.


Liz Scott

Liz Scott

Liz is a homeschooling mother utilizing Classical Conversations with her family in Central Illinois. She received her Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Marquette University and worked in the clinical field for ten years before becoming a stay at home mom and homeschooler. During her time in the professional medical field she also served as an Associate Professor at Marquette University and Clinical Mentor for Physical Therapy students. After 10 years in the field, her priority is still helping people, but she has turned her focus to helping children and families know God and make Him known through the utilization of the classical education model. She is a Community Director in Central Illinois as well as a Community Tutor and a former Support Representative for Classical Conversations. Dr. Scott is married to her husband Don of 11 years and they have three wonderful children. They currently reside in Gridley IL where they homestead, raise chickens, and enjoy spending time serving in their church and community.

Liz's Workshops:

5 Tools to Help Your Children Think Well and Develop Understanding Session 1, Friday 10:30 a.m. in Room 205

Discover the tools that teach your children how to think well and develop understanding of any subject, topic, or trade. We will model these tools allowing you to experience them yourself!

Experience the Classical Education Model (While Learning About the Renaissance) Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 205

Experience classical education in action! We will model and practice the three arts of the trivium: grammar, dialectic, and rhetoric. Using the Renaissance as a springboard, this interactive session will demonstrate how learning progresses throughout a student’s life.


Peoria Park District

Cassie Sheehan

Cassie is one of the naturalists at Forest Park Nature Center in Peoria, IL.

Cassie's Workshop:

Animal Adaptation (Ages 5+) Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 207

This interactive presentation shows off some of the neatest survival strategies in the animal world. Focusing on indigenous Illinois animals, we explore how animals use adaptations to find food, defend themselves, build shelter, and raise their young. Participants will get the chance to meet a live animal!


Kirk Smith

Kirk Smith

Kirk and his wife Joely have been married for 27 years and have 11 children. Although they both were trained as public educators, they committed to homeschooling before their children were school age. Kirk pastored for twenty-five years and now serves as the Executive Director for Illinois Christian Home Educators (ICHE). Joely has mentored many young women over three decades but now focuses on her six daughters in her own home.

Kirk's Workshops:

Creating a Biblical Culture in the Home - Session 2, Friday 1 p.m. in Room 203

Having a home based on scripture sounds wonderful, but so few are raised in biblical homes to even know what that looks like. Join Kirk for some practical, doable steps to start the trajectory toward having a biblical culture in the home.

Freedom that Leads to Bondage - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 203

At what point do our spiritual liberties become stumbling blocks? Many pulpits choose to remain completely silent on personal preference areas while the world continues to blast its Pied Piper tune. Is there a balanced biblical approach that will help our young adults navigate these challenging issues?

 

Philip & Emily Wegman

Philip & Emily Wegman

Emily is the CEO and owner of Faire Coffee. Faire Coffee started as a mobile only coffee shop, and has since grown into two brick and mortar stores (Washington, IL and Eureka, IL) and two mobile units (a coffee camper and coffee carts). She was homeschooled from the age of 8 and graduated high school at the age of 16. She graduated with an associates degree in Graphic Design from Illinois Central College at the age of 18. She currently runs a coffee shop which employs close to 30 baristas and kitchen staff.

Philip Wegman is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ and an Enrolled Agent (EA). He graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Personal Financial Planning. Once out of college, he was hired into the Financial Advisor Development Program (FADP) at Vanguard which allowed him to move through several roles in the company. He ended his time at Vanguard working as a High Net Worth Advisor, managing money for clients who had $500,000 - $5,000,000 of assets under management at Vanguard. Upon engagement to Emily, he moved back to central IL and now works as a financial planner at IPI Wealth Management in Quincy, IL.

Philip & Emily's Workshop:

Alternative Career Paths: The Story of Faire Coffee - Session 4, Saturday 10:30 a.m. in Room 202

There are many options available to homeschoolers, almost too many! Philip and Emily focus on sharing their career stories to empower other homeschoolers on their journeys upon high school graduation.

 

Isaac Wofford

Isaac Wofford

Isaac and his wife, Rachel, have been married 24 years and blessed with six children. As a dad, one of Isaac's great joys is spending time outdoors with his family. Isaac is a minister in Washington, IL Apostolic Christian Church of America (ACCA) and an attorney for a leading equipment manufacturing company.

Isaac's Workshops:

Adventuring as a Family | Why we Explore - Session 5, Saturday 1 p.m. in Room 203

As a dad, one of Isaac's great joys is spending time outdoors with his family, whether on a Sunday afternoon birding trail, a more intense backpacking trip through Grand Teton National Park or a canoeing expedition in the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area. He looks forward to sharing this passion with you. In this session, we’ll explore some of the reasons you might choose to prioritize outdoor adventure for your family and how to inspire a love of creation in your children.

Adventuring as a Family | How we Explore - Session 6, Saturday 3 p.m. in Room 203

As a dad, one of Isaac's great joys is spending time outdoors with his family, whether on a Sunday afternoon birding trail, a more intense backpacking trip through Grand Teton National Park or a canoeing expedition in the Boundary Waters Wilderness Area. If you would like to share creation with your family but are uncertain how to get started – or you just love talking about your adventures and gear – then this is the session for you. We’ll explore some tips and tricks you can use, as well as a few mistakes you can make, as you venture into the great outdoors with your family.

 


Peoria Area Association of Christian Homeschoolers


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For questions regarding newsletter submissions, the Homeschool Convention or home education in general, please send an email to info@apachecentralillinois.org. A Board member will respond as soon as possible.

 

Mailing Address: PAACH | P.O. Box 5203 | Peoria, IL 61601

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