Meeting Needs at Christmas

As we approach the season of giving, when God gave His son to the world, our thoughts often turn to people and organizations who are in need our support.

Several families in the Extraordinary Education community are in need at this time. Please use the green “Donate” button if you would like to help these families enjoy a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Gift cards for things such as groceries and gas or stores such as Walmart and Target would also be appreciated. Gift cards can be dropped off with the House Manager to be given to our families in need.  

The Extraordinary Education Center is also in need of numerous upkeep items as we continue to grow. Our regular tuition and fees only cover teacher pay and regular expenses. Improvements and major repairs must come from donations. If you would like to help support your learning center, please use the red “Donate” button to donate. You can give a one-time gift or set up a recurring gift.

Improvement projects that are in need of funding:

• Playground fence – A fence is needed around our playground for safety. We have an Eagle Scout ready to build the fence, but funds are needed for the materials.
  Projected cost: $1,500
• Garden Fence – We are in need of an 8 foot fence around the vegetable garden to keep the deer from eating up our student’s hard work.
  Projected cost: $2,000
• Flooring – A number of our rooms are in need of flooring upgrades due to the high level of traffic they receive. The number of rooms we can refurbish depends on funding received.
  Projected cost: $3,000-$10,000
• Parking – Several truckloads of dirt or crushed shell need be hauled in so that cars to do not keep getting stuck in the mud.
  Projected cost: $1,500
• Tables & Chairs – Many of our tables and and chairs are “hand-me-downs” from other organizations, and many are literally on their last legs and continue to break or fall apart on a daily basis.
  Projected cost: $5,000
• Storage Buildings – We are in need of a dedicated storage building for archery equipment and another building closer to the garden for gardening equipment.
  Projected cost: $1,500
• Handicapped Ramp – We are in need of a ramp for the portable buildings. We often have students with injuries as well as teachers and visitors who would benefit from a ramp. 
  Projected cost: $2,000
• Painting & Renovations – A large portion of the “main house” has been renovated over the past 8 years, but some areas remain stuck in the 70’s. We would like to update the kitchen with new paint and remove the fireplace in the Indian Paintbrush classroom.
  Projected cost: $5,000
• Classrooms & Restrooms – EE has grown from 160 students in 2013-14 to over 300 students in 2014-15. Continued growth is expected for 2015-16, so additional classrooms and restrooms are a must. Options include bringing in more portable buildings, renovating the barn and/or new construction.
  Projected cost: $100,000+
• Additional Property - 20 acres adjacent to the EE campus are currently for sale. ($80K/acre) We really need a few of those acres for things such as an auditorium, gym, additional classrooms, parking, playing fields, etc.
  Projected cost: $240,000+

As a recognized 501c3 organization, donations to Extraordinary Education are tax deductible.

Double your gifts! Many employers also offer matching funds when employees donate. Your efforts to fill out the paperwork with your employer for matching funds is greatly appreciated!

Extraordinary Education Center EIN: 20-5480296

NEW Middle School Science Class for Spring 2015!

“Moving Beyond the Page” Literature-based Science
6th-8th grade 

This exciting literature-based science class will integrate middle school science concepts with literature and language arts concepts using a creative, hands-on curriculum. This semester students will study cells, including looking at various cells under a microscope, while also reading and writing nature poems. Then, they will learn about Force and Motion, doing in-class experiments to illustrate concepts, while also reading about Albert Einstein.

Tuesday/Thursday, 11:00-11:55am
Instructor: Marci Parsley
Tuition: $75/month
Supply Fees: $45 Supplies + $10 Book Rental
SIGN UP NOW in your ClassJuggler account!

Textbook and Materials:

• Moving Beyond the Page Curriculum
• Quest for Personal Best: Individual Sports by Lisa Greathouse
• Albert Einstein by Kathleen Krull
• Cells by Susan Meredith
• The Tree That Time Built by Mary Ann Hoberman and Linda Winston

Homework: Students will need to spend approximately 45 minutes per day on their assignments.

PSIA Competition - Call for contestants!

Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA)
www.psiaacademics.org
REGISTER for the Team Here

With 19 contest categories covering a wide range of disciplines, PSIA is an exciting opportunity for students to engage in academic competition with their peers throughout the state of Texas. PSIA contests span all levels from Grade 1 to Grade 8 —and PSIA is open to homeschoolers, too!

PSIA programs are designed to support the basic academic curriculum. Contest preparation is easily implemented into daily studies, and participation in academic meets serves to enrich skills. PSIA academic contests are designed to motivate students to find new excitement in learning, achieve a higher mastery level, and receive recognition and awards for academic excellence. Several local homeschoolers have even won scholarships through their involvement with PSIA!

Extraordinary Education's group membership allows us to send up to 3 students per grade/age level per event to the local District 10A competition. Students who do well at the District level may go on to the State tournament. It is time to register students for these competition slots!
REGISTER for the Team Here

PSIA DISTRICT 10A CONTEST
Saturday, March 28, 2015
Host Site: San Jacinto College North

Please check out the contest descriptions on the PSIA website and let us know ASAP if your student is interested in filling any slots on our team. There are a limited number of slots available for each event, and slots are filled on a first come basis.
REGISTER for the Team Here

NOTE: PSIA rules allow students to compete up to two grade levels above their current grade level but they can never compete below level. Also, a homeschooled student’s grade placement is determined according to their age on September 1st (the grade they would be in public school.) It can benefit an advanced student to compete with their age-mates in academic contests.

PSIA EVENTS OFFERED

LANGUAGE ARTS:

• Creative Writing (Grades 1-2)
  Using a prompt of several pictures, students have 30 minutes to create an original story based on the pictures.
• Ready Writing (Grades 3-8)
  Students are given a choice between two prompts. Each prompt defines the audience and provides or implies the purpose for writing. Time limits vary by grade level.
• Spelling (Grades 2-8)
  As spelling words are pronounced contestants may either write or print each word. Test words come from the current PSIA Spelling List (80%) and from outside sources (20%).
• Dictionary Skills (Grades 4-8)
  Students use all elements of the dictionary as they learn practical techniques for extracting and applying resource information.
• Vocabulary (Grades 5-8)
  SAT preparation skills, including word usage, reading comprehension, and analogies, are honed through this challenging multiple choice, 30-minute contest.
• Listening Skills (Grades 4-8)
  Contestants may take notes as they listen to the contest script on CD, and then use these notes as they answer objective test questions in 10 minutes.

MATHEMATICS & SCIENCE:

• Mathematics (Grades 2-8)
  In a multiple choice 30-minute math test students are challenged beyond their grade levels in a variety of general math questions including algebraic equations.
• Number Sense (Grades 4-8)
  Contestants find high-speed solutions to math problems in this exciting and challenging 10-minute contest in mental mathematics.
• Calculator Applications (Grades 6-8)
  This 30-minute contest develops mathematical reasoning and knowledge and requires application of problem solving skills toward realistic problems.
• Maps, Graphs & Charts (Grades 4-8)
  Students are challenged to obtain information from visual sources. Tests include maps, graphs & charts needed to answer multiple choice questions derived from the 2003 or newer editions of the Nystrom Desk Atlas.
• Science (Grades 6-8)
  Earth, Life and Physical Science information are tested in this 30-minute, multiple choice contest, which usually consists of 50 test questions.

FINE ARTS:

• Music Memory (Grades 3-8)
  Students identify composers and selections from some of the world’s best known classics. Contestants write answers as they hear 15-second segments of the music and also take a 20-item test over information found in the current PSIA Music Memory Student Handbook.
• Art Memory (Grades 4-5)
  Students are challenged to identify the artist and the work and answer questions about the art and the artists found in the current Art Smart Bulletin (paintings are from the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D. C. and museum in Texas.)
• On-Site Drawing (Grades 6-8)
  Using a display still life model consisting of from 4 to 7 objects, contestants produce a rendering on regular drawing paper using any drawing media. Contestants have 45 minutes at the contest site to produce their work of art.

SPEECH EVENTS:

• Storytelling (Grades 1-3)
  Contestants hear a story that they retell before an audience. Contestants will have approximately 6 minutes to retell the story in their own words.
• Prose Interpretation (Grades 4-8)
  Students select, prepare and read a literary prose selection, with introduction, within a six-minute time limit.
• Impromptu Speaking (Grades 6-8)
  Students are challenged to organize their thoughts on a topic for three minutes, then speak for five or fewer minutes without notes.
• Modern Oratory (Grades 6-8)
  A challenge in writing and speaking, students prepare a short speech to examine the pros and cons of an issue (choice of 5) and defend their points of view. Contestants take a convincing stand on only one side of the issue.

For more details and rules about specific contests and events, please refer to the PSIA website links above.

Registration Information:
REGISTER for the Team Here

• Registration with the EE Team is $35 per student per event for current EE students and $40 per student per event for non-members. Individual homeschool families may also compete by registering directly with PSIA. The cost is usually greater to compete as an individual family.
• Registrations and fees must be received in the EE office at least 4 weeks prior to the contest date.
• There is a limit to the number of students we can enter. Students must be registered and PAID to fill a slot.
• We can enter up to 3 students per grade level per event. Some events have combined grade levels, and we may only enter 3 students in those grades combined.
• Students may only compete in non-conflicting events. There are special rules for double-entry that only apply to specific events. Please refer to the PSIA Conflict Pattern Schedule for more information.
• Families who participate are expected to fill judge/grader slots on the day of the contest.
  Our group is required to provide one volunteer judge or grader for every 2.25 entries. Your family should plan to fill one slot for each 2.25 contests in which your own students compete. Volunteer slots may be filled by either or both parents, another family member, friend, neighbor or even a high school or college student. Our team will be penalized if we do not fill our assigned slots, so volunteers must be reliable.

Contest Preparation:

• Paid contestants are welcome to make use of the study materials available at EE. Study materials may not leave the EE campus, but parents are welcome to make copies for a small copy fee. We have invested many dollars in purchasing prior years' tests and other materials. We are thrilled to share them with our contestants!
• Parents will need to MAKE AN APPOINTMENT with the Director if they need to make copies or view PSIA materials.
• Please MAKE YOUR APPOINTMENT ONLINE on the EE website or send an email to extraed@att.net.

REGISTER for the Team Here

European Mosaic Trip

Join other EE families and teachers for a fabulous 15 day trip in June of 2016 to London, Paris, Munich, Berlin, Prague, Salzburg, Vienna, and more!

Be the first to learn about this spectacular trip and save $100.00 if you enroll by the end of 2014! (The sooner you enroll, the longer you have to pay off the trip/earn money for the trip/dream about the trip/etc.!!!)

There will only be two meetings about the European Mosaic this year: Sunday, November 16^th at 4:30 p.m. or Tuesday, November 18^th at 4:30 p.m. on the EE campus in Mrs. Campbell’s classroom. (We will have additional meetings in the Spring of 2015.)

All students who will be twelve years of age or older by June 1, 2016 and their parents are invited to attend the meeting and travel with us.  Students who will be fourteen years of age or older by June 1, 2016 will be able to travel with the group without a parent chaperone.  Students who are twelve and thirteen at the time of the trip must have a parent or guardian travel with them.  Family members are welcome on this trip as long as they meet the minimum age requirements.

Please consider joining us on this trip of a lifetime!  It will undoubtedly change your life!

Rick Green's Constitution Alive! Class

Sunday, November 16
3:00 – 6:00 pm
The Woodlands Bible Church
2407 Timberloch Place, Suite D
The Woodlands, TX 77380

History and government do NOT have to be boring! Rick Green brings the Constitution and citizenship to LIFE through compelling and entertaining stories about the lives, fortunes, and sacred honor sacrificed to make America the most powerful and most free nation in the history of the world.

Rick will take you back to the events of 1776 and the Declaration of Independence, 1787 and the Constitutional Convention, and step by step through the Constitutional Amendments, right up to the current debates in our nation today covering topics such as nullification, impeachment, the Electoral College vs. National Popular Vote, First Amendment Freedom of Religion, individual God-given rights. vs. group government-given rights, is the Constitution a living document, and much more.

Read more at http://rickgreen.com/live-events/constitution-classes/#jv2wrKT3FEvWM818.99

Space is limited, so register today! To register, please go to: http://rickgreen.com/montgomery-county-constitution-class/

Tuition:
$25 per individual
$35 per couple (1  workbook)
$45 per family (2 work books)
$10 per student (no workbook)
Children under 14 are free/with parent

NOTE: This is a community event. It is sponsored by the Montgomery County Tea Party. It is not sponsored by EE.

Texas Renaissance Festival School Days–11/4 & 11/5

The Texas Renaissance Festival invites all public, private and home school educators and students to join us for the 10th Annual School Days. School Days is offered exclusively as an educational opportunity. The festival grounds will not be open to the general public. It is designed to be age appropriate for students and all events, shows and activities will be both educational and entertaining.  Students, teachers and chaperones are invited to join the fun and come in costume.

Students step back in time as they enter the sights and sounds of New Market Village, an authentic recreation of a 16th century European Village.   Students will interact with hundreds of costumed characters representing the courts, culture, art, science and literature of the Renaissance Period.

Jousting knights, musicians, jesters and magicians perform on stages and arenas throughout the village.  Students will have the opportunity to learn courtly dances, the ancient art of falconry, and the history of arms and armor. 

Artisans in period dress illustrate the technological advances of the Renaissance age through live demonstrations in pottery, glass blowing blacksmithing, armor making and other arts and trades of this amazing period.

The 2014 School Days will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday, November 4th and 5th, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.   The Texas Renaissance Festival is located at 21778 FM 1774, between the towns of Magnolia and Plantersville, Texas, 45 miles northwest of downtown Houston.

All Tickets are $8.00 per person, including same day ticket purchases at the gate.  Children 4 and under are admitted free.  There is no charge for parking.  

Tickets ordered prior to October 22, 2014 will be mailed.  Tickets ordered after October 22th will be placed in Will Call to be picked up the day of the event.  Admission includes all stage entertainment, demonstrations and interactive presentations. Admission purchase is required to participate in any School Day
contest.

800-458-3435
schooldays@texrenfest.com
http://texrenfest.com/school-days

The Festival is an outdoor event and will operate rain or shine. 

Contests
http://www.texrenfest.com/school-days/contests

School Days Performing Arts Festival 
http://www.texrenfest.com/school-days/performing-arts-festival

Theatre Arts Festival 2014
Tuesday, November 4th, 2014
Our Theatre Arts Festival is an adjudicated drama competition which offers students the chance to perform works of classical theatre in an authentic Renaissance setting.  Intermediate, junior high and high school students can compete in the categories of monologue/soliloquy, duet scenes, group scenes and one-act play.  Theatre Arts performances will be adjudicated by experienced and accredited theatre professionals and all contest judging will be based upon an impartial scoring system.  Awards will be presented to the highest scoring performances in each category and age group at a daily awards assembly hosted by the King and featuring the Royalty from England, France, and
Spain!

Early Music Festival 2014
Wednesday, November 5th, 2014
Instrumental and vocal music students are invited to participate in the Early Music Festival, an adjudicated competition for intermediate, junior high and high school students.  Bands, orchestras, choirs and other ensembles may perform period music in an authentic Renaissance setting.  Performances will be adjudicated by experienced and accredited music professionals and all contest judging will be based upon an impartial scoring system.  Awards will be presented to the highest scoring performances in each category and age group at a daily
awards assembly hosted by the King and featuring the Royalty from England, France, and Spain!

Individual and Family Portraits 11/5-11/7

Fernando Kohan with "Other Day's Light Photography" will be at EE on Wednesday, November 5th and Thursday, November 6th to take individual student photographs for the EE Yearbook. Family/group sittings will also be available on these dates and on Friday, November 7th. This will be the third year in a row Fernando has done our photographs at EE. We know you will love his work!

Individual student photos for the Yearbook will be taken during class time on Wednesday 11/5 and Thursday 11/6 prior to the sitting times listed on the sign-up form. If your student does not normally attend class on either of those days, please sign up for a time on the form so that he/she may be included in the yearbook. It would be helpful if you list "make up photo" in the comment section.

Fernando will also be available to take family/group portraits on Wednesday 11/5 and Thursday 11/6 as well as on Friday 11/7. The sitting is free of charge, and you may purchase portrait packages or a CD of your photos. He has added a family CD option as well. Please following the link below to the sign up form to reserve a time slot.

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/20f0d49afab2fa0fb6-individual

For more information contact Virginia Young at virginiakerr1965@gmail.com.

EE Fall Festival - November 7th

Hello EE Families! On behalf of  Tiffany Verot and Katrina West; your 2014 Fall Festival Coordinators… Welcome to the long awaited and highly anticipated "Fall Festival Volunteer Sign Up"!

You will find the "Sign up Genius" link below. Just click and go!  
Please read through the brief descriptions of the volunteer opportunities that are available.  We need many hands to make this a successful event, so please consider sharing some of your time.

Sign up sheets will be in the lunchroom and at the front desk FOR TEEN STUDENTS.  They will receive community service hours for their commitment. 

Please note:  Time increments are not posted on Sign-Up Genius. Once you have signed up YOU ARE NOT expected to work the entire time. Time slots will be in 30 minute or 1-hour increments depending on how many volunteers we have.  This will be determined and a coordinator will let you know before the festival.

BOOTH COORDINATORS NEEDED/ DUTIES:

• Ticket Sales Coordinator (tickets will be pre-sold) - Organize and track ticket sales.
• Kids Booth Coordinators - Contact/instruct/coordinate with your volunteers.  Gather materials, set up/tear down of booth.
• Bonfire Coordinator - Manage wood pile and keep area safe.  Make sure fire is secure and safe before leaving the area for the evening.
• Face and Pumpkin painting Coordinator - gather materials/supplies. Contact/instruct/coordinate with your volunteers. Set up/tear down of booth.

OTHER VOLUNTEER NEEDS:

• Set up/tear down crew
• Photo booth
• Cooking/serving
• Face painting/pumpkin painting
• Kids booths (fish pond/pin the tail/bean bag toss
• Cake walk
• Obstacle course/teen games
• Bonfire (adults)
• Hay ride
• Fill in/runner/ wherever you need me

Watch for upcoming emails ... We will need baked goods for the cake walk and old adult clothing for one of the teen games.... More info to follow!

http://www.signupgenius.com/go/30E0E4BAEAE2C7-volunteer/5582148

Thank you,

Tiffany and Katrina

EIL BEST Robotics Team Results

The Extraordinary Innovation Labs BEST Robotics Team competed in the North Houston BEST Hub contest on Saturday, October 18th. The team came away with the Founder’s Award for Creative Design and advanced to Finals with their robot winning 4th Place Robot out of a field of over 20 teams.

The team also earned the 3rd Place BEST Award for their overall performance. The BEST Award is the most prestigious award in the BEST competition and recognizes the team for their efforts to Boost Engineering Science and Technology. As part of the team’s BEST efforts, the team earned a perfect score on their exhibit booth as well as a perfect score on their oral presentation.

The team will continue honing their engineering and marketing skills during the off-season. Please see the team’s website at www.eilrobotics.com for more information.

Houston Mini Maker Faire

November 1st
10am-5pm at the Stafford Centre
http://www.houstonmakerfaire.com/

Passing this on. It sounds like a lot of fun!  From the website:

Let’s get right to the point: we were all born to be learners and creators, but sometimes this gets lost in the rush and distractions of modern life. If you want to get back in touch with your inner passion to learn / create / design / build / make, Maker Faire is the place for you! Here you can see real projects, real experiences and activities, made by real people who might even live on your street. While there are some cool things to purchase if you want, Maker Faire is outstandingly about learning and doing.

Tickets for adults are $20.  Volunteers earn free tickets.
http://www.houstonmakerfaire.com/volunteer/

CYT at EE!

Plans are in the works to bring Christian Youth Theater classes to the EE campus starting with the Winter 2014 session! Classes will be held on Thursday evenings. Specific class details are still being finalized but will be released soon.

Registration for these classes will be handled through CYT – not EE. Be sure to check the CYT website for class details and registration information.

http://www.cythouston.org/classes/

Homeschool Baseball Opportunities

MtB Mustangs Kid's Camp - Saturday, Oct 24 (9:00am - 12:00noon)
The annual MtB Mustangs "Kid's Camp" will be held Saturday, October 25 for boys ages 6 - 10.  This is a great time when our coaches and high school players will lead boys through basic baseball drills.  This is a FREE event, so pass the word and let's get a good group of boys at this event.  The camp will be held at Barton Park, Conroe, Loop 336 just east of FM 1314.  Please download the 2014 Kid's Camp registration form from our website at: http://www.eteamz.com/mtb_mustangs/ (in the Forms section), complete it, and bring it to the camp.  The boys also need to bring a glove, cap, and their favorite bat - if they have one.  We look forward to having a great camp for our up-and-coming Mustangs.

MtB Mustangs 2015 Season Tryouts - Saturday, Nov 8 (9:00am - 12:00noon)
Mark your calendars for the 2015 season tryouts Saturday, Nov 8 at Barton Park.  These are tryouts for all players who want to play for the Junior High or High School MtB Mustang teams.  There is no cost for the tryout, but please come ready to try-on jerseys and caps so we can submit our uniform order and get them back in time for our kick-off meeting early-January.  This is an open tryout for any homeschool baseball player interested in playing next season.

For more info or to learn more about becoming part of the Mustangs, call General Manager Mark Pyle at 281-460-0502 or email: mark.pyle@suddenlink.net

MtB Mustangs - "More than Baseball"
http://www.eteamz.com/mtb_mustangs/

Please note that this is not an EE event. Information is shared for the benefit of our EE families.

EE Breakfast Club

THE BREAKFAST CLUB  is coming to EE beginning on Tuesday, October 21st and Wednesday, October 22nd!!!  All EE families are invited to take advantage of being able to easily feed your children breakfast on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and to gain a little extra time by dropping your children off at EE up to a half hour before school begins.  Your children will love being able to start the day socializing with their friends and having a chance to meet fellow students they have not yet met, all while eating some of their favorite breakfast foods. Please note that this event is a fundraiser for our students going to Italy over Spring break.

Here's the Breakfast Club Scoop: 

• Breakfast Club will be offered from 8:30-9:00am on Tuesday & Wednesday starting 10/21.
• Breakfast club will meet in the Lunch Room.
• The cost is $5.00 per child/per Breakfast Club session. This allows the child to spend supervised time eating breakfast with their friends on Tuesday and/or Wednesday mornings. 
• Students may choose up to three items from the selection available that day (for example: fruit, muffins, juice, milk, donuts, hot items, etc. -- which will vary each week).
• In order to plan for food and supervision, students must PRE-ORDER by the end of the previous class day. Just like lunch orders, please send $5 with your child and be sure they are signed up on the list at the House Manager’s desk.
• Students will need to check in at the front desk to get their name badges before arriving at The Breakfast Club. 
• Students who are not signed up for Breakfast Club may not come into the Breakfast Club area to hang out before classes start.

We hope to see you bright and early next week!

Extraordinary Innovation Labs Robotics Team

Come support the Extraordinary Education robotics team this Saturday, October 18th at the North Houston BEST Robotics Competition! Wear green to support our team’s theme.

Time: 9:30am - 4:30pm
The Woodlands College Park High School 
3701 College Park Drive, The Woodlands, TX 77384 | Map

The Boosting Engineering Science and Technology Competition (B.E.S.T.) is a robotics building competition held annually. It lasts six weeks and challenges students to use processes in engineering and design to develop a company that will build a robot to meet a certain need. This student led team will then have to compete with other companies from across their area to sell the product. The theme of this year's competition is Blade Runner. The “need” that must be fulfilled involves the process of carrying and constructing wind turbines. Our team at Extraordinary Education has participated in the BEST competition since 2001 having advanced to the Regional level 12 times.

The theme our team has selected for this year’s marketing efforts is the Power Rangers. We are looking for safe, efficient ways to transport and build wind turbines while making sure the animals that encounter them won't be harmed. In order to complete all the tasks that lead up to final game day, our team is divided into two sub-teams: the Technology Team and the Marketing Team. Each sub-team is in charge of a crucial part of constructing or promoting our company and products.

The Technology department deals with the construction of the product. The product, our robot, has to complete certain tasks and also comply with restrictions given by the judges in order to score. They also have to maintain data on how the robot was designed and built, the math involved, and other things required for Engineering Notebook. Both the Robot and the Notebook count toward the team’s overall B.E.S.T. score.

The Marketing Team's job is to promote our company, the Power Rangers. In order to do this, we must attract new “employees”, create outlets where people can view us such, construct an exhibit booth and deliver a marketing presentation to a board of judges while maintaining the professional environment. The Exhibit and Presentation also count toward the team’s overall B.E.S.T. score. Marketing is accountable for just as much work as the technology team, although their work is more public and less physical. However, they do have the opportunity to build when it comes time to construct their booth for Game Day.

Both teams are tested in their abilities to work together to create and accomplish a wide variety of tasks dealing with aspects of developing a company.

For more information about BEST Robotics or EIL's Robotics team, please visit our website for more information. (www.eilrobotics.com)

Extraordinary Italy Trip - Info Meeting

Have you always wanted to take a tour of Italy?
Here is your chance!!!

Please join us for an informational meeting on either Tuesday, September 23^rd from 4:30 – 5:30 or on Thursday, September 25^th from noon – 12:30 at EE to learn more about traveling to Italy with Mrs. Campbell over Spring Break.  You’ll get to review the itinerary (which includes Venice, Florence, and Rome), find out about fund raisers to help you earn the money to travel with us, discover what’s included in the trip price, hone in on how to become a chaperone for the trip, and much more.

Remember, this trip is for EE high school students (who do not have to have a parent go with them), their high school friends (who must have a parent go with them unless I approve otherwise), EE families (extended is fine!), and college students that at least one of our chaperones knows (especially former students)! The opportunity to travel abroad is a priceless learning adventure, and I truly hope you will all consider either going with me or letting your child join me on this exciting journey!

I’m looking forward to sharing this fun adventure with you and hope to see you all at a meeting sometime next week!

Blessings,

Renee Campbell 
rcampbell@extraed.org

A third meeting may also be scheduled, so please watch for flyers, email, etc. to alert you to the third meeting option.

TeenPact Registration Opens 9/1

TeenPact is a dynamic, hands-on leadership school for Christian students. The mission of TeenPact is to train youth to understand the political process, value their liberty, defend their Christian faith and engage the culture at a time in their lives when, typically, they do not care about such things.

The TeenPact experience is one of intentional growth, education and encouragement. We believe that God gives every young person a great spiritual capacity as well as a scriptural mandate to cultivate and use their talents – even before they are old enough to drive, work or vote!  TeenPact trains these young people to embrace their call as the next generation of leaders by giving them tools, teaching and opportunities.

Each TeenPact program is marked by spiritual discipleship, student leadership, parental involvement and a commitment to excellence. Our loyal base of parent volunteers and student leaders keep the vision alive and growing as we continue to expand nationally. Founded in 1994 by Tim Echols, TeenPact currently offers classes in 39 states and counting.

“Changing lives to change the world” is more than a motto to us. It’s literally what we do every day.

Key dates:

September 1, 2014:  Registration opens!  $30 discount for registering during the month of September.

January 26-29, 30, 2015: Texas I
4-day Class (for ages 13-19) with optional Political Communication Class, and Texas One-day Class (for ages 8-12).

February 2-5, 6, 2015: Texas II
4-day Class (for ages 13-19) with optional Political Communication Class, and Texas One-day Class (for ages 8-12).

February 9-12, 13, 2015:  Texas III
4-day Class (for ages 13-19) with optional Political Communication Class, and Texas One-day Class (for ages 8-12).

A residential camp will be available all three weeks.  We are seeking a limited number of fathers to chaperone the young men at camp.  Please contact me if you are interested in serving the ministry in this capacity while experiencing TeenPact with your young leader.

For more information on the Texas State Capitol Class, see http://teenpact.com/state-classes/texas/

Don't miss out on TeenPact in 2015!  Bring along a friend and get ready to change the world!  Register early.  Classes fill very quickly!

The Eaton boys have attended TeenPact for the past 5 years, and they have been greatly impacted by it. I highly encourage you to send your child at least once before they graduate.

- Elise Eaton

Back to School Information

I hope you are getting ready for an extraordinary first week of school!

Please take some time to familiarize yourselves and your students with the information provided in our Handbook taking special note of the Dress Code, Electronics Policies, Behavior Expectations and Lunches.

The Handbook, Facility Map and other First Day information can be downloaded and printed from the following page of our website:
http://extraed.net/first_day_information

The Member's Handbook is also included inside your child's Day Planner which was handed out at Orientation. If you did not yet get a Planner, please stop by the House Manager's desk to take your ID PHOTO and get your Planner on your first day of class. Each enrolled student will receive ONE Planner. Replacement Planners are $5.

CLASS DAY PROCEDURES

Arrival

• Please check in with the House Manager upon arrival.
  • ALL STUDENTS MUST CHECK IN BEFORE GOING TO THEIR CLASSROOM.
  • ALL ADULTS AND SIBLINGS WHO REMAIN ON CAMPUS MUST CHECK IN AND WEAR A NAME TAG.
  • We will be using paper check-in lists and temporary name tags for the first week of class until enrollment settles.
• Please wait in the Library until it is time for your class to start. (We will ring a bell.) Students should not wait in the Kitchen, on the porches, on the playground, in cars or anywhere else on campus unless supervise by their parent.
• Please do not go to the classroom early as this disrupts the prior class and/or it disrupts the teacher while he/she is preparing for class.
• Please check out before leaving the campus.

Classrooms

As a university-style program we must make classroom adjustments from time to time based on class needs as well as class sizes. Please double-check the classroom assignments online or posted near the front door before going to your classes for the day. Most classes will be in the same room as Orientation, but a few classrooms may have changed.

If the teacher is not in the room when it is time for the class to start, please return to the Library to double-check the room assignment and wait for the teacher to arrive if necessary. Students should never be in a classroom without a teacher or responsible adult present.

Lunch Orders

Lunch will be available to order each day for $5.00 a person. You may also bring a lunch from home.
Lunch orders must be received by 10:30am at the House Manager's Desk in the Library.
You can order on a daily basis, or you can set up a "running tab" with the House Manager.
The weekly lunch menu and additional lunch information will be sent our separately.

Scholastic Book Orders

Love books?
Interested in ordering from SCHOLASTIC BOOK CLUB? 

• Click  https://clubs2.scholastic.com
• Then chose CONNECT WITH YOUR CHILD’S TEACHER
• Enter Class Activation Code – N4GVG

This code will connect you to Mrs. Killian’s class, that’s me!

The deadline for the first order is September 30, 2014.

So many books, so little money. You may order from any level. Hoover over any grade level and you’ll see nine submenus. Check them all out.  Place your order and pay online. I will complete the order at the end of September.

The books will be delivered to me at EE and will be distributed from my classroom (Pondlilly). After you place an order, send me an email so I can let you know when the books are in and ready to be picked up.

Happy reading,

Dianne Killian
dkillian@extraed.org

Dianne Killian’s Homeschooling EdVentures
http://homeschoolingpioneer.com/

Extraordinary Innovation Labs: BEST Kick-off Meeting!

Kickoff for B.E.S.T. is about to begin!

Tuesday AUGUST 26th
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
@ Extraordinary Education

• Learn about the team and new developments over the summer.
• Hear from those who want to run for office this year. Question the candidates.
• Candidates: Please be ready to give a short presentation about why you want to hold a leadership position and/or why you are a good candidate

Preliminary positions:

• President
• VP - Technical/Robot
• VP - Sales/Marketing
• Treasurer

Tuesday SEPTEMBER 2nd
7:00 PM to 8:30 PM
@ Extraordinary Education

• Planning for this year's season
• Last chance speech for prospective officers.
• VOTE for your officers

Team meetings will continue on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays from Kick Off Day until Game Day. 

MORE BEST INFO:
Our HUB:

North Houston BEST
http://www.northhoustonbest.org/

Kickoff Day
Saturday, September 6, 2014
Lone Star College - Montgomery Campus, Commons (Building A)
http://www.lonestar.edu/maps-montgomery.htm

Learn about this year's game, see the course, and get team materials.
Head back to EE for preliminary brainstorming and planning.

Demonstration Day
Saturday, October 11, 2014
The Woodlands Mall

Required event for all participating teams. Run your robot over the course and practice for next week's contest. There may be prizes as well!

GAME DAYS

BEST Presentations
Friday, October 17, 2014
The Woodlands College Park High School

BEST Award competitors will offer a presentation that counts towards total points.

Machine Check-In
Friday, October 17, 2014
The Woodlands College Park High School

All robots that will be competing must be turned in during this time.

North Houston BEST Competition
Saturday, October 18, 2014
The Woodlands College Park High School

The Big Event!

TEXAS BEST Competition
Friday and Saturday, Nov. 14-15, 2014
Curtis Culwell Center, DALLAS, TX

If we qualify at HUB we will compete at this event in Dallas.

New Family Information Session–Tues, 7/29

Please join us for an overview presentation specially geared to new families. Make your plans now to attend this informative event and be sure to bring a friend!

New Family Overview Presentation
• TUESDAY, JULY 29th – 7:00-8:30pm
RSVP NOW!

The New Family Overview will be led by our Director, Elise Eaton. It is designed to provide an introduction to the Extraordinary Education program for families who are new to EE and to answer common questions. All families who are enrolled in CORE classes are expected to attend a New Family Overview, and all potential EE families are strongly encouraged to attend.

Children are welcome to attend, but they must remain with a parent at all times.

Event Location:
Extraordinary Education Center
9522 Carraway, Magnolia, TX 77354 www.extraed.org

THSC Conference THIS WEEK! July 24-26

Be sure to stop by the Extraordinary Education booth at the Texas Home School Coalition Conference at The Woodlands Waterway Marriott Convention Center this weekend.

Thursday night from 5:00-7:00 is FREE Shopping night!
The convention officially opens on Thursday at 7:00pm, and free seminars will be offered from 7:00-9:00pm.
The convention continues on Friday from 9:30am-6:00pm and on Saturday from 9:30am-5:30pm. We hope to  see you there!

Please note that ON-SITE general admission registration MAY SELL OUT, and a limited number of Shopping Only Passed will be available. Last chance to register online is TOMORROW at Midnight, TUESDAY, JULY 22. Don’t miss out!

 

 

 

“Homeschooling for High School Students” Seminar

Parents of junior high and high school students are invited to join us on Saturday, August 2, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. on the Extraordinary Education campus to learn what you need to know about graduation requirements, record keeping, transcript development, dual credit classes, testing, and more. 

Pre-registration costs of $49.00 include materials, printed and electronic templates, free attendance for a spouse, and light refreshments.  Walk-in registration (if space is available) is $60.00 per person. 

Please register by emailing Cyndie Phillips at cphillips@extraed.org or Renee Campbell at rcampbell@extraed.org. 

You do not have to have a child enrolled at EE to attend this seminar!

Superstar Students Workshop

Secrets to Self-Control, Effective Study Habits, and Test-taking Tactics

Your junior high or high school aged student is invited to join us for a fun and informative "hands on" seminar to be held on Tuesday, August 5, 2014 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on the EE campus.  The pre-registration cost of $135.00 includes materials, supplies, snacks, and lunch.  Walk-in cost : $160.00 if space is available (which is doubtful!).

The secrets to self-control (which is linked to higher academic achievement), organizational skills, test preparation tactics, and strategies for recall of information as well as detailed instruction on how to take notes during lectures and while reading assigned texts will be taught in a fun, exploratory, hands-on manner in this much needed (by most students!) seminar.   If you want your junior high or high school aged child to enter school with less anxiety and improve their abilities in most academically related areas – then this is the seminar for them!

Lunch, snacks, and course materials are included. 

It is suggested that you send a three ring binder, dividers, a back pack, a list of classes your child is enrolled in for this school year, and any school supplies that will be carried in the backpack with any child who needs extra help with organization. 

Maximum class size: 16 students -- so enroll now by emailing sshilling@extraed.org, rcampbell@extraed.org to reserve a coveted spot! (Open to all students, whether they will attend EE or other schools.)

EE Missionary Family

Dear Friends & EE Parents,

A former EE parent, Andrea Kopataki, is in the process of becoming a missionary. She will be teaching at a Christian school in her native Hungary.  She and her husband spent 20 years in the Woodlands area before moving to Europe with their two teenage children. 

Andrea feels called to work with the children of the missionaries who serve Eastern Europe as well as the Hungarians who send their children to the International Christian School of Budapest.  Having raised a special needs child, she also has a passion to provide services to families who are raising children with learning difficulties and developmental differences. 

I am sending this information to introduce her and to ask you to prayerfully consider supporting her ministry. Andrea is visiting the Woodlands area during the month of July and she would be very excited to meet with your family to give you an opportunity to get to know her and learn about her ministry.  Also, if you could introduce Andrea and her ministry to anyone in your circles (family, friends, church groups, community and business leaders) please consider doing so. 

I am attaching a 5 minutes long introductory video of the International Christian School of Budapest and a letter Andrea wrote to describe her calling there:

https://www.dropbox.com/s/60r6swuf0hraus9/ICSB_TeacherVid_vFNL.m4v

(Andrea’s letter)

Dear Friends,                                       

I hope this letter finds you well, enjoying God’s blessings. 

I am having an exciting chapter of my life.  After calling Texas home for 20 years, God has called our family back to our native Hungary.  Leaving against all logical reasons to stay was the hardest decision my husband and I ever made and the adjustment was extremely difficult for all of us.  We regret not having had the chance to personally say good-bye to many of our friends, but we hope to see everyone when we visit this summer. 

I am writing to share with you that God has opened a door and called me to serve in the special education department and of the elementary section of the International Christian School of Budapest (ICSB) as a teacher.

This job is important because ICSB keeps many missionaries (YWAM, United World Mission, ABWE, Campus Crusade for Christ, Entrust, Every Nation, Global Harvest, etc.) in the mission fields of Hungary and Eastern Europe as the school provides a quality education in English for their children. The school is also a witness to the Gospel for the surrounding Hungarian community and specifically to the families of our Hungarian students who make up 50% of the lower elementary and 30% of the 250 total enrollment.

The supplemental services department of the school provides students with learning disabilities and other special needs, a valued and needed service.  These services either don’t exist or are in a dismal state in the Hungarian educational system.  In this position I will:

· Be a witness on campus and in that community

· Work in the special education department to provide educational therapies to increase students’ learning capacities, drawing on my experience with my own daughter

· Encourage families, especially mothers of children with various special needs by organizing lectures, support groups and Bible studies

· Use my ability to speak both Hungarian and English to work with non-English speaking children and families of ICSB and also to teach our English-speaking missionary kids the local language. 

After a long search for God’s plan and His reason to move us here I believe doing this work is God’s calling for me at this time of my life.  If you believe in me and in the children and families who would benefit from this work, would you bless us by partnering with me in this ministry, please?

With your help:

· You take part in the fulfillment of the Great Commission and make it possible for me to pledge my time, labor and energy to be an ambassador for Christ

· You make it possible for kids with special educational needs to be in a school environment where they are loved and nurtured, not bullied, and where they will receive a quality education.

· I can attend the courses and obtain the training that will better equip me to provide the specialized programs many of our children need.  I can also introduce these programs, widely available in the U.S., to Hungary where they are barely known. 

· We can build a sharing library of books, DVDs and other much needed resources 

· Many children will receive help in their native language facilitating their learning 

· Last but not least my own two children will be part of a loving environment that most resemble the schools they used to attend in our home in The Woodlands. 

Thank you for your prayerful consideration of supporting my mission.  I would be grateful for your help in some of the following ways:

A. Be on my team as a prayer partner.  Please pray for God’s guidance and for my family

B. Help me reach more people during our visit in July in the States by:

a. Inviting like-minded people such as your family, friends, co-workers or neighbors into your home/business where I could personally introduce myself and my ministry.

b. Securing 5-10 minutes of presentation time for me at your place of worship or small group gatherings (such as Bible studies, women’s groups, men’s fellowships, business luncheons) so I could introduce my ministry and ask for help

c. Talking to the Missions Committee of your local church and asking them to consider supporting my ministry at ICSB.

d. Enlisting business owners to regularly donate to this mission

e. Sharing with me any other ideas you may have to help make my fundraising successful.

C. Give financially, sending your tax deductible contributions to my missionary organization, Resourcing Christian Education (RCE)

I sincerely thank you for taking the time to read my letter and for considering to get involved with this ministry. 

We will be visiting the U.S. from the 24^th of June to the 29^th of July and very much look forward to seeing you then.  Please drop me a line at akopataki@yahoo.com or call me at 832-312-8839.  I would be honored by the opportunity to personally share more with you. 

Blessings,

Andrea

URGENT! Daytime Curfew Proposed in Magnolia–City Council Meeting, July 8th

A new daytime curfew in Magnolia will be considered at the Magnolia City Council meeting on Tuesday, July 8th at 7:00pm. This curfew seems to go directly against our constitutional rights as homeschoolers and parents, and we need to take a stand. Other homeschoolers and Magnolia area families should be aware.  Please spread the word!

To Home School Families in the Magnolia Area

Please plan to attend the hearing and/or make a public comment.

What:  Magnolia Day Time Curfew Public Hearing

When:   Tuesday, 07-08-14 @ 7:00 p.m.

Where: Magnolia City Hall, Sewall Smith Council Chambers, 18111 Buddy Riley Blvd, Magnolia, Texas 77354

Request:  Public Comment - 3 minute limit

Complete the following form ahead of time if possible:

http://www.cityofmagnolia.com/vertical/sites/%7B897F68C4-D082-448C-86EC-FDD23D6DCB11%7D/uploads/Request_to_Speak(1).pdf

The full text of the proposed ordinance can be viewed at this link:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B1xEk2EGp5ckX1RJaFRmYjhmRjg/edit?usp=sharing:

Proposed city council agenda:

19. CONVENE PUBLIC HEARING #1 - CURFEW ORDINANCE 
(Mayor Todd Kana)

A public hearing will be held at 7:00 pm at Magnolia City Hall, Sewall Smith Council Chambers, 18111 Buddy Riley Blvd, Magnolia, Texas 77354 regarding a proposed Curfew Ordinance to hear comments for or against the proposed ordinance.

20. CLOSE PUBLIC HEARING

21. CONVENE PUBLIC HEARING #2 - CURFEW ORDINANCE

A second public hearing will be held at 7:05 pm at Magnolia City Hall, Sewall Smith Council Chambers, 18111 Buddy Riley Blvd, Magnolia, Texas 77354 regarding a proposed Curfew Ordinance to hear comments for or against the proposed ordinance.

22. CLOSE SECOND PUBLIC HEARING AND RECONVENE OPEN MEETING

23. CONSIDERATION – ORDINANCE NO. O-2014-016 – CURFEW ORDINANCE 
(Mayor Todd Kana)

Consideration and possible action to adopt:

ORDINANCE NO. O-2014-016

AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MAGNOLIA, TEXAS, ESTABLISHING A CURFEW FOR PERSONS UNDER THE AGE OF 17 WITHIN THE CITY OF MAGNOLIA, TEXAS, BETWEEN THE HOURS OF 12 MIDNIGHT AND 6 A.M. AS WELL AS AT ALL TIMES DURING THE DAY DURING WHICH SCHOOL IS IN SESSION; ALSO CONTAINING DEFINITIONS AND PROVIDING FOR A PENALTY FOR PERSONS IN VIOLATION OF THE CURFEW AS A CLASS C MISDEMEANOR; PROVIDING THAT IT IS UNLAWFUL FOR ANY PARENT OR GUARDIAN OF A PERSON SUBJECT TO CURFEW TO KNOWINGLY PERMIT, OR BY SUFFICIENT CONTDROL ALLOW SUCH PERSON TO VIOLATE THIS ORDINANCE; PROVIDING THAT ANY OWNER OR EMPLOYER OF AN ESTABLISHMENT VIOLATES THIS ORDINANCE BY ALLOWING A MINOR TO REMAIN AT SUCH ESTABLISHMENT DURING CURFEW HOURS; AND ESTABLISHING A FINE IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500 PER OCCURRENCE AND PROVIDING FOR THE PUBLICATION OF THIS ORDINANCE.

American Girl EdVentures & Dinner Theater

My American Girl
EdVentures & Dinner Theater
Instructor: Ms. Dianne Killian
Ages 1st-6th
9:00am-3:00pm (Mon-Thurs)
11:00am-8:30pm (Fridays)
Dinner Theater - Friday @ 7:00pm
$175/camper
http://homeschoolingpioneer.com/my-american-girl-summer-camp/

Bring a doll, any 18” doll will do, and join us for an exciting EdVenture as we step back in time and discover how American girls lived, and played. Ms. Dianne brings her ever-growing collection of dolls, doll furniture, doll food, doll accessories, and doll clothes.  Projects vary each week and include: making a papoose, cross stitching, sewing a miniature quilt, creating matching jewelry for you and your doll, making a Victorian hat, a yarn doll, a lunch basket.

• Each camp culminates in a Dinner Theater.
• At the end of the week, each camper, will take home a sack of DIY doll accessories, plus a few surprises.
• Camp Fee $175 – includes EE facility use and all supplies.
• Monday – Friday: Monday – Thursday 9:00 – 3:00  AND Friday 11:00 – 8:30ish

“Felicity” - June 2-6
"Felicity" - REGISTER NOW

“Kaya” - June 9-13
"Kaya" - REGISTER NOW

“Caroline” - June 16-20
"Caroline" - REGISTER NOW

“Kirsten” - June 23-27
"Kirsten" - REGISTER NOW

“Addy” - July 7-11
"Addy" - REGISTER NOW

“Samantha” - July 14-18
"Samantha" - REGISTER NOW

“Kit & Molly” - July 29-Aug 1
"Kit & Molly" - REGISTER NOW

Please contact Ms. Dianne with any questions.
You can view her site at the Homeschooling Pioneer.

Art Excursions with Linda Marie

Summer Art Excursions
with Ms. Linda Marie
Various Weeks
Ages: 6-10 yrs - 9:30am-12:30pm
Ages 10 yrs+ - 1:00-4:00 pm
- $125/student

Discover creativity using the principles found in Creation! Genesis 1 & 2 is the formula for success in re-creating. This summer we will travel through art history, following Art Masters to better understand how they used these principles to create their great works.

WEEK 1: May 27-30 (Tu-F)
WEEK 1-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 2: June 2-6 (M-F)
WEEK 2-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 3: June 9-13 (M-F)
WEEK 3-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 4: June 16-20 (M-F)
WEEK  4-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 5: June 23-27 (M-F)
WEEK 5-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 6: July 7-11 (M-F)
WEEK 6-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 7: July 14-18 (M-F)
WEEK 7-REGISTER NOW

WEEK 8: July 29-Aug 1 (M-F)
WEEK 8-REGISTER NOW

BEST Robotics Camp–June 2-6–Register Now!

EIL BEST Robotics RE-BOOT Camp
Presented by: Extraordinary Innovation Labs BEST Robotics Team
REGISTER NOW!

Dates: June 2-6, 2014
Time: 9:00am-4:00pm
Ages: 6th-12th grade
- $150/camper (New EE BEST Robotics Team Member)
- $25/camper (Previous EE BEST Robotics Team Member)

Students in this camp will develop many of the skills necessary for a successful BEST Robotics contest season. The camp is designed to prepare students who want to be part of the Fall 2014 BEST Robotics Team at Extraordinary Education.

This camp is open to *girls and boys* entering grades 6-12. Prior robotics experience is not necessary.

Skill focus areas will include:
- Use of various power tools
- Robot construction
- Programming
- Problem solving and mini-challenges
- CAD Drawing
- Presentation skills
- Team-building activities

Music Camp - June 16-20 - Register Now!

Come experience The Musical Time Machine!

The Musical Time Machine
Instructor: Dr. Brian Herrington (SHSU)
June 16-20, 2014 (Mon-Fri)
3rd-6th Grades - 9:30am-12:30pm
7th-12th Grades - 1:00-4:00pm
- $100/student
REGISTER NOW!

Dr. Herrington takes the students back in time through the history of classical music, from the music of knights and ladies in the Middle Ages to the music written in our own time.  Students will also learn about the instruments of the orchestra, the fundamentals of reading music (even make and play an instrument), songwriting, and music appreciation skills. Appropriate for both young musicians and those with no musical experience (exercises are tailored to students’ skill levels). This is an excellent Fine Arts credit!

Camp fee includes tuition and all supplies: Listening CDs and Worksheets, a recorder (instrument), music paper, and binding of each student's final songwriting project.

NOTE: The camp instructor is a long-time music professor at Sam Houston State University. He teaches these same concepts in his college-level music history and appreciation courses.