AU’s Homeschool & Classical Learning Summer 2025 Newsletter

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PLUGGED IN SUMMER 2025

2025 FALL HOMESCHOOL CONFERENCE:

Featuring Guest Speaker Heidi St. John Nov. 1, 2025 John C. Myers Convocation Center | Ashland University

Heidi St. John is the author of 10 books, including “Becoming MomStrong: How to Fight with All That’s in You for Your Family and Your Faith” and its corresponding Bible study. Her best-selling book, “Bible Promises for Moms,” has 200,000 copies in print, and her popular podcast, enjoyed by audiences worldwide, has been downloaded over 24 million times.

She has been married to Jay, her college sweetheart, since 1989.

The St. Johns live just outside beautiful Vancouver, Washington, where they oversee their nonprofit organization, Firmly Planted Family, and the Homeschool Resource Center.

The conference will also have two breakout sessions and a vendor hall. For more information, contact: Theresa Watson Coordinator, Homeschool and Classical Learning Center at 419-207-6290 or twatso15@ashland.edu

Used Curriculum Sale

CONTENTS June/July Calendar

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Elementary/Middlers Courses

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High School Courses

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Parent Events

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Events for All Ages

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HCLC OFFICE HOURS Monday–Thursday | 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

July 19 | 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

John C. Myers Convocation Center | Ashland University Are you nearly done with your curriculum for the year? Request a table at our used curriculum sale and earn some money for next year’s books! Vendor tables are free. Reserve yours by calling 419-207-6290 or emailing AU-homeschool@ashland.edu Looking to purchase some gently used curriculum or just want an opportunity to talk to some homeschool parents who have hands on experience? Come out and take a look!

SUMMER CLASS REQUESTS

530 College Ave.

4 Registration begins on May 1 for all students.

Call for an appointment 419-207-6290

www.ashland.edu/homeschool-classical-learning-center

JUNE 2025 SUNDAY

4 Ages 6-9 | 4 Ages 10-13 | 4 Ages 14-18 | 4 Parent Event MONDAY

TUESDAY

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WEDNESDAY

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3

THURSDAY

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FRIDAY

SATURDAY

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12

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25

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College Prep: Note Taking 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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9 Primary Art: Pointillism 10-11:30 a.m.

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Open Swim 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Swim test at 11 a.m.

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16 Mapping your High School Journey 6-7:30 p.m.

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American Character: Space Exploration 10-11:30 a.m.

Perch Dissection 10-11:30 a.m.

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College Prep: Formatting a Paper 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

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JULY 2025 SUNDAY

4 Ages 6-9 | 4 Ages 10-13 | 4 Ages 14-18 | 4 Parent Event MONDAY

TUESDAY

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WEDNESDAY

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Open Swim 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

Swim test at 11 a.m.

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Byzantine Art: Millet Seed Mosaic Eagle 10 a.m.-Noon

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Shark Dissection 10-11:30 a.m.

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THURSDAY

FRIDAY 4

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10

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American Character: American Revolution 10-11:30 a.m.

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30

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Science Bonanza 1-2:30 p.m.

28 Art: Pointillism and George Seurat 10 a.m.-Noon

2 | Ashland University

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19 Used Curriculum Sale 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

Building a Unit Study 6-7:30 p.m.

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27

SATURDAY

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25

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ELEMENTARY | Ages 6-9 Primary Art: Pointillism June 9 | 10-11:30 a.m.

This one-day art class will introduce students into pointillism.

We will explore the works of George Seurat and create our own paintings using his techniques.

Please make sure to dress your student in painting clothes.

Class size is limited to 8 students.

American Character: Space Exploration June 12 | 10-11:30 a.m.

In this one-day class, students will study the moon landing, build a bottle rocket, try freeze-dried ice cream, and more! We will read the book “Moonshot” and discuss the bravery and perseverance that was required to make the mission a success.

Class size is limited to 10 students.

American Character: American Revolution July 10 | 10-11:30 a.m.

Students will read Longfellow’s “Paul Revere’s Ride,” and discuss the liberties that Longfellow took with the event and why he did so. We will also complete a revolutionary inspired ink and watercolor painting, work with maps, and explore signals and codes. Note- we will be working with permanent inks, so be aware of what clothing your student is wearing to class.

Class is limited to 10 students.

Science Bonanza July 22 | 1-2:30 p.m.

Do your students beg for science experiments? Are you hesitant because they are so involved? Leave it to us!

We’ll be outside for some fun, messy experiments that will have students excited to get back to science class this fall! Class size is limited to 12 students.

MIDDLERS | Ages 10-13 Perch Dissection June 17 | 10-11:30 a.m.

During this workshop, students will work in groups of 2 to dissect a perch. They will learn to how identify and label basic organs and systems and how to document their findings in a notebook. All needed supplies will be provided. Please keep in mind the nature of this workshop, and dress students in clothing that is easily cleaned. Class size is limited to 12 students.

Science Bonanza July 22 | 1-2:30 p.m.

Do your students beg for science experiments? Are you hesitant because they are so involved? Leave it to us!

We’ll be outside for some fun, messy experiments that will have students excited to get back to science class

Byzantine Art: Millet seed Mosaic Eagle July 14 | 10 a.m.-Noon

Some of the loveliest mosaics in existence come from the Byzantine Period of art. Many mosaics were functional such as mosaic floors and walls. Others were more decorative, such as stained-glass windows. In this project, students will create a millet seed mosaic. This project takes time and patience. Bumping the table will often result in having to redo a large portion of the work. Therefore, students will need to be able to focus on the task and be aware of their surroundings.

Class size is limited to 10 students.

this fall! Class size is limited to 12 students.

Homeschool & Classical Learning Center | 3

HIGH SCHOOL | Ages 14-18 College Prep: Note Taking June 4 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

Did you miss out on our 4-week College Note Taking class? This one-day class will present the highlights of that course. Students will learn how to determine which note taking strategy will work best for them and go home with the resources to practice this vital skill before classes start up in the fall. Perfect for students entering the CCP program or taking college classes in the fall. Class size is limited to 14 students.

Perch Dissection June 17 | 10-11:30 a.m.

During this workshop, students will work in groups of 2 to dissect a perch. They will learn how to identify and label basic organs and systems and how to document their findings in a notebook. All needed supplies will be provided. Please keep in mind the nature of this workshop, and dress students in clothing that is easily cleaned. Class size is limited to 12 students.

Shark Dissection July 15 | 10-11:30 a.m.

During this fascinating workshop, students will work in groups of 4 to dissect a dogfish shark. They will learn how to identify and label basic organs and systems and how to document their findings in a notebook.

All necessary supplies will be provided. Please keep in mind the nature of this workshop, and dress students in clothing that is easily cleaned.

Class size is limited to 12 students.

Art: Pointillism and George Seurat July 28 | 10 a.m.-Noon Students will get an in-depth look at the artwork of George Seurat and learn the techniques needed to create their own painting in this unique style.

Class is limited to 12 students.

College Prep: Formatting a Paper

June 25 | 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

This class will introduce students to the essential formatting styles used in academic writing – MLA, APA, and Chicago Style. This class is perfect for students entering the CCP program or taking college classes in the fall. Class size is limited to 14 students.

Open Swim – All Ages 4 June 10

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. (Swim test at 11 a.m.) and

4 July 8

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. (Swim test at 11 a.m.)

Join us for a dip in the AU pool! Swim test or flotation devices are required for the deep end.

Note: the shallow end of the pool is 4 feet deep.

4 | Ashland University

PARENT EVENTS Mapping your High School Journey June 16 | 6-7:30 p.m.

Does the idea of homeschooling through high school intimidate you? Do you wonder if you have planned enough? Perhaps you are concerned about teaching upper-level courses. There’s no need to worry. During this workshop we will address all of these questions, and help you walk out with a high school plan that will fit your family and your students’ goals. Please bring a notebook and any questions you may have.

Building a Unit Study July 15 | 6-7:30 p.m.

If unit studies sound perfect for your family, but you don’t know how to begin, this is the workshop for you.

It will lead you through creating a unit study based around a topic, a time period, or a novel (or picture book, depending on the age of your student). These 3 types of unit studies look very different from each other, but each is valuable in its own way. Bring a notebook, your student’s favorite book (or yours), and any questions you may have.

Could it be Dyslexia? by appointment

Do you have a child who is struggling with reading or remembering math facts? Have you suspected dyslexia? Join us for an informative workshop where you will learn about common dyslexia myths, ways to help recognize dyslexia, and how to support your student effectively.

Homeschool 101 by appointment

This workshop covers essential skills such as setting homeschool goals, prioritizing educational objectives, and crafting a personalized curriculum map tailored to your student’s needs. We’ll explore the five basic types of homeschooling and guide you through selecting a curriculum that aligns seamlessly with your goals and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned homeschooling parent or just starting your journey, this workshop promises to equip you with the tools and knowledge necessary to create a fulfilling educational experience for your family.

Registering for Fall – What You Need to Know Fall registration is just around the corner, and we are working hard to make it as easy as possible.

Below is a list of things to remember: 4 You will need to register your family information BEFORE filling out a class request form. This registration is valid for one school year (Summer Term, Fall Term, Spring Term) and will need to be repeated each May before requesting classes.

4 You will receive a link to request classes only after filling out the family registration.

Homeschool & Classical Learning Center | 5

FOR ALL AGES HCLC Eagle Reading Club

Forms may be picked up beginning May 5 Club runs June 1 through Aug. 1 Prizes picked up when the completed form is returned to HCLC (between Aug. 4 and Aug. 21.)

Reading is a year ‘round activity! This summer, join the HCLC Eagle Reading Club and embark on an exciting adventure! Open to students ages 6-18, it’s the perfect opportunity to explore a variety of genres, from mystery to fantasy and everything in between.

Read as many books as you can, earn prizes, and most importantly, have fun! Register at the HCLC, pick up your form, and start reading for your chance to win amazing prizes by the end of the summer. Don’t miss out on the fun – get ready to dive into your next great book!

YOU CAN HOMESCHOOL; AU CAN HELP. Ashland University’s Homeschool and Classical Learning Center was designed to help homeschooled and classical learning students transition into higher education with ease. The center is for students in grades K through 12, and offers the following benefits: 4 Workshops for students and parents 4 Engagement with other homeschooled students 4 Free one-on-one or group tutoring 4 Access to curricula library and other resources 4 Recreational opportunities

Curriculum Focus: Demme Learning Demme Learning is best known for Math-U-See, a hands-on, mastery-based math program that builds conceptual understanding through manipulatives and sequential learning. Demme Learning also offers Spelling You See, a research-based spelling program, along with various grammar, writing, and digital learning tools tailored for homeschoolers.

With user-friendly materials, clear instruction, and online resources, Demme Learning supports parents in guiding their children’s education.

Stop by the HCLC to look at what Demme Learning has to offer. We have a large selection of their curricula in our curriculum library and would be happy to help you see if it would be a good fit for your family.

6 | Ashland University