Christian Homeschool Online Community board

 Christian Youth Theater (CYT) is an after-school theater arts training program for students ages 6-18. Since its founding in 1981 in San Diego, California, CYT has grown to be the largest youth theater in the nation. CYT is dedicated to developing character in children and adults through training in the arts and by producing wholesome family entertainment, all of which reflect Judeo-Christian values. CYT stands in the forefront in its commitment to the highest ethical, moral, technical and artistic standards of excellence. Instructors are professionals, qualified in teaching and/or performing, who must understand our mission statement, values, objectives and goals. All CYT staff strive to be excellent role models. CYT currently has branches in Gresham, Vancouver, and now Beaverton, and seeks to expand further in the Portland metro. For information about CYT, classes, its instructors, and current shows, please go to its website as linked or contact them at  cytvanport@gmail.com  or call 360.750.8550 (Various Portland Metro Locations)

City of Tualatin Recreation Programs -- Art Classes We have expanded our programs to include arts, science, and fitness classes for kids age 2-13. ( A number of our classes, such as the Mad Science classes, are offered during hours especially convenient for homeschoolers).  Please visit our website for more information on the City of Tualatin's programs. (Tualatin)

Elaine Butler, Music Teacher  offers both private music lessons and orchestra classes in Estacada.  Her orchestra classes are provided though OrchEstraCada, a multilevel, intergenerational orchestra sponsored by Estacada Together.  Classes include: Piano (classical and gospel), orchestra, voice lessons, music theory,  and performance coaching. Private lessons $30.00 per hour. Family classes available.  Orchestra class for string players $50.00 per term includes books.  Elaine Butler is well-known in the homeschool community as a support group leader, manager of the Philip Foster Farm, and music teacher. She is the artistic director of the Estacada First Baptist Church worship band, and performs professionally for weddings, funerals and local events. She has been teaching private students for over 30 years. For current class information, please contact Elaine Butler at elaineb@cascadeaccess.com (best contact method) or call 503-341-7256. (Estacada)

English Country Dance Classes.  ECD is a style of dance that could be described as a genteel square dance--a dance with geometric patterns and gracious civility done to Baroque, English Country, and Classical music.  It was popular during the Regency period (Jane Austen's time--think PBS movie Pride and Prejudice--ECD was the dance style in that).  Classes are taught by Laura Plett (a homeschool alumni) every Thursday night, from 7 to 8:30pm, at the McMinnville Grand Ball Room, Generally every other month, a ball is given at an announced address.  Classes are open to anyone interested aged 13 through adult (many families come)  Contact Laura at maidoflorien@gmail.com  for more information.  Also see our ECD Ball page. (McMinnville)

Glory Art Works  provides onsite art classes in a cheerful home environment.  Classes are taught at 3 different levels from 2nd grade through high school.  Children become familiar with art principles, learn to paint and draw, and are taught art history from a Christian perspective.  Glory Art Works also now publishes homeschool art curriculum.  For more information, please go to their website or contact Joan Cherrington at 360-253-9367 or joan@gloryartworks.com  (Vancouver, WA)
 

Grieg Lodge Leikarringen (Scandinavian Dance) is a non-profit group for all ages 4 and up, sponsored by Sons of Norway's Grieg Lodge. We have been in existence since 1934, and have danced at Disneyland, around the Pacific Northwest, and even for Norwegian royalty. No experience necessary; practices are free. We are a performance group. We meet the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of the month from 7:00-8:00 pm at Norse Hall, 111 NE 11th Ave., Portland, OR 97232. Please contact Karen Thompson at ktmoonblue@yahoo.com for more information. (NE Portland)

Harmony Road Music Center in Clackamas is founded on the Harmony Road Curriculum created by Jan Keyser where students learn by doing: first by honing the ear and singing; then by singing and playing on the piano or keyboard; finally bringing the student’s music education full circle by reading notes and composing pieces. Parent involvement is a key factor of a student's success. Parents are guided in methods to keep the family in a musical "mode" at home. For more information, please go to our website or contact us at 503-557-5151 or at Harmony_Road@msn.com  (Clackamas)

Julie Schmidt Piano and Violin Instruction. I am a piano and violin teacher in SW Portland looking to serve the local homeschooling community. (I was homeschooled myself through highschool).  I offer in-home individual and group instruction for beginner through intermediate levels for adults and kids. Music lessons are a wonderful way to develop self-discipline and confidence, and I strive to foster a fun and creative environment in which to do so! Please call or email me for more information or to schedule an interview.  Phone: 209.840.3351.  Email:  juliecschmidt@yahoo.com (SW Portland)

King Fisher Curriculum Cove Academic and Arts Classes.  King Fisher Curriculum Cove is a Christian homeschool store that sells new and used homeschool curriculum and provides a selection of on-site classes. Annual testing of the CAT 5 also provided.  (Eastside Portland)

Lake Oswego Music Academy offers high quality music instruction in the southwest Portland area.  The faculty consists of highly trained instructors teaching private lessons and group classes whose mission is to promote performing arts in the community. As the school expands our vision is to be able to offer more programs and add more faculty.  Currently PRIVATE LESSONS are available for piano, jazz piano, violin, cello, voice, guitar, and recorder  with fees as follows: 1/2 hour $30.00; 45 min. $45.00; 1 hour $55.00.  There is an annual registration fee of $25.00. Individual instructors may offer family discounts.  GROUP CLASSES include violin, recorder, children’s choir, choral and opera workshops.  Current rates are $10.00 per class.  Additional  materials will be separate.  Group classes will be scheduled as minimum enrollment is met. The general calendar coincides with the Lake Oswego Public Schools academic year. However, private lessons are ongoing and can be enrolled in at any time.  In addition, periodic recitals, workshops and faculty concerts will be offered.  There is also a week-long summer camp in August. Please visit our website for more information or contact Anne Young, Administrative Director, anne@lomusicacademy.com 503-342-6896. (Lake Oswego)

Leikarringen of Portland  (Scandinavian Dance)This is a non-profit youth dance group that promotes all types of Scandinavian dancing for Portland area kids. They perform at large Scandinavian events around the pacific northwest as well as smaller venues such as retirement centers. No dance experience is necessary!  No equipment is necessary except hard-soled dance-type shoes. (Costumes are required for performances; however, the club has some costumes to loan as well as patterns to help make your own). Children 4 years of age and older are welcome to learn in a multi-age group. (All the kids in a family can dance in the same group on the same night--perfect for homeschooling families!) Parents and other family members are encouraged to become involved in support of the group. Practices are held Tuesday evenings in Portland at St. David's Episcopal Church, 2800 S.E. Harrison (between Belmont and Hawthorne) September through mid-June. For more information, class times, or if your homeschool group would like to visit a practice for a field trip, please contact Christie Stilson, at paradyse@comcast.net.  Sponsored by the Daughters of Norway.  (SE Portland)

NEW!  Lucinda Brown Friday Hands-On Art Classes Students learn techniques and art history by a trained and experienced teacher with BFA degree. (References available upon request.) Classes are divided into 4 sessions over the school year and held Friday afternoons from 1:00 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at Newberg Christian Church, 2315 Villa Rd. in Newberg (NOTE: This class is not affiliated with NCC. It is a private class held in a classroom.) Pay per session, family and full year discounts available. Call 503-887-8849 or e-mail lucinda_brown@comcast.net for more information.  (Newberg)

 Ludin Piano Lessons for beginning students (including adults) through intermediate.  Instruction uses the Faber method books (preferred) and also Bastien.  Instruction includes supplementary hymn, praise songs and classics as well as reading lead sheets and playing chords in preparation to serve on worship teams. The instructor Cheri Ludin has been serving in church music worship for many years and has taught for five.  For more information about available lesson times and rates, please contact Cheri Lundin at 503-521-9394 or cherilundin@yahoo.com

Masters School of Art  Masters School of Art stresses a return to the techniques of the old masters and a Christ centered philosophy for art. Their Thursday or Friday Home School Program offers classical art classes in the visual and performing arts. The School has several teachers who are committed to excellence in the arts. Students who wish to pursue a career in the arts may apply for college level classes to achieve their MSOA Instructors Certification or MSOA Mastery of the Arts.  For more information concerning either program contact MSOA at 503-786-3428 or go to our linked website.  (Clackamas)

Metropolitan Youth Symphony is dedicated to offering a challenging, rewarding and fun musical experience for all young musicians. Our ensembles are designed to accommodate young musicians of all levels of experience and playing ability. We also offer students a chance to explore different musical styles and ensemble formats by offering chamber and specialty ensembles. Students are placed in ensembles by playing ability, not by age, so that all students can progress at their own pace. (Downtown Portland)

Miriam English Ward violin and viola studio.  I am a viola/violin teacher at Lewis and Clark college. I teach both private lessons or small groups at either my home in Beaverton or at Lewis & Clark College. I have my Bachelors, Masters and Doctorate in performance and have performed personally at an elite level including locally with the Oregon Symphony and Portland Opera.  My husband and I have played in worship bands together including the Intervarsity Following Christ Conference in Atlanta. I'm happy to teach anything from classical to contemporary worship styles. I've had homeschoolers in my studios in Madison, Wisconsin, and would love to build a relationship with the homeschool community here. Please contact me at miriamenglish@hotmail.com for more information or call 503-341-1071. (Beaverton and SW Portland)

NEW! Natalie Gunn Music Studio, Now in Tualatin!  Offering private voice lessons ages: 11– adult, piano lessons: all ages, beginning – intermediate, & starting in January 2011: Choir for Home-Schoolers! (gr. 7-12) Register today.  (503) 704-4101; natalie@nataliegunn.com.  [Master of Music, Linfield College Faculty, Member of NATS & OMTA.]
 

Northwest Worship Academy  is headed by Joel Harris, a local worship leader (and homeschooled son of Gregg Harris). It offers lessons on guitar, piano, bass, and drums. Students (many of whom are homeschooled) are trained to play worship music and ultimately gain the skills that enable them to play on worship teams in their local churches. See the website to find several endorsements from parents, students, and pastors as well as information on its rates and multiple locations. (Portland Metro)

On Your Toes Ballet Studios  From their mission statement: On Your Toes is a classical ballet school dedicated to serving God by offering quality dance instruction. The purpose of the ballet school is to use dance in the service of the Lord Jesus Christ. Our objective is to train dancers in the finest classical tradition, instilling in them a desire to refine and use their gifts to glorify God. We serve students of all ages, with varying goals and aspirations who desire to study dance.  (Studios located in Clackamas, Oregon City, and Vancouver)

NEW!  Oregon Children's Choir and Youth Chorale aims to provide outstanding musical instruction while sustaining the

highest level of artistic excellence. All directors strive to bring out the best skills, talents and behavioral capabilities of all members.  In the Fall 2010, OCCYC will introduce several new choir programs for homeschooled children ages 6 through 13 (with options for high school ages) to provide home school singers with a choral experience that exceeds that provided in most public schools. This includes values‐based instruction and sacred music not found (or permitted) in public schools. All homeschooled children are welcome, no audition required., two separate semesters provided. Rehersal locations may vary in the westside. Please see their main website for the homeschool choir option under "What We Do" or go to this  flyer for more information about their new homeschool program. (Acrobate Reader required). (Main organization located in Lake Oswego)

Park Place Violin Studio in Oregon City offers Violin, Viola and Finnish table harp lessons.  Lessons are offered by a teacher with a strong teaching background and friendly approach. The goal is to keep technical progress and musical enjoyment in balance. Both Suzuki and "Traditional" method available. New beginning, intermediate and advanced violin students welcome. Beginning viola lessons and Finnish table harp lessons also offered.  Monthly string group classes, and recitals twice a year provided. Teacher is also instructing string orchestra classes at Alliance Charter Academy in Oregon City. Violin music is available for weddings and special occasions. Please e-mail Elisa Boynton at tokeo@msn.com for more information or call  503-880-4880.  (Oregon City)

Piano Studio of Paul Grose "Are you looking for an exceptionally talented and highly-qualified teacher with a unique approach to piano performance? Is the student a beginner, either child or adult, who wants to start creating a beautiful sound in just a few lessons? Are you an intermediate or advanced student who is frustrated because you aren't able to execute the technical passages in your increasingly difficult literature? If you've answered 'Yes' to any of these questions, please contact me for the times available in my schedule. I will send you a packet of information that will explain how you can perform beautifully and effortlessly on the piano. I am classically-trained, with a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance from Wheaton Conservatory of Music (IL) and 4 years of post-Conservatory study in Piano Performance and Technique. In my home studio in Tigard, I teach all genres of literature including Jazz, Hymns, Christian Contemporary, etc. For more information, please call (503) 598-9212 to schedule an Interview Lesson." (Tigard)

UPDATED!  Salt of the Earth Productions provides drama, singing, and dance lessons to homeschoolers ages 8 to 18 in the Sherwood/Tualatin area. Formal ballroom dance balls are also held frequently. Classes are $10-$15 a week per family for one two-hour class a week. A musical production is performed periodically. For more information please contact Emily Hundley at saltoftheearth20@yahoo.com or call 503-359-4858. (Sherwood/Tualatin)

Saturday Academy provides classes for students in grades 2 - 12. Students can explore a multitude of topics from science, engineering and technology to humanities and the arts. There are no tests or grades at Saturday Academy, and only occasionally are there prerequisites. Classes are held throughout the Portland Metro area and are taught by professionals from many different fields. The instructors bring expertise in the subjects they've chosen to teach and excitement for helping students discover new ideas. (Various Locations) 

Scottish Country Dancing in Tigard is aerobic exercise for the body AND the mind!  (There is no caller, just your memory!)  SCD classes are held Monday evenings at the Tigard Grange on 99W just east of Gaarde Street.  The beginners' class is 7:30 to approx. 8:40, and advanced dancers continue from approx. 8:40 to 9:30.  (Beginners are welcome to stay and watch.)  The cost is $7 per evening for ages 15 and over.  Spectators and dancers under 15 are free (young children just need to be mature enough to follow instructions). It's a family-friendly place for parents and children alike to get some exercise and have fun doing it together.  (Regular attendance is encouraged to help build skills.)  For further information, contact Mrs. Debbie McRobert at 503-620-3034. (Tigard) 

Smiling Sunshine Art Education  This is the Lake Oswego cottage art studio of Mrs. Angie Schane.  Mrs. Schane, who was an interior design student in college, has taught art classes for over 11 years to students of all ages (4 to 44)!  She stresses "Art is a life skill and should be a part of every young person’s basic educational program."  Through her "Learning to Look" art program, she emphasizes the importance of observing the world around us and applying "what if" thinking skills.  Her studio and outdoor space provide an environment where students have the freedom to imagine the "what if" possibilities and then apply skills to produce their vision.  Her classes teach art techniques in many mediums as well as art theory and concepts about the world of art itself.  Smiling Sunshine Art Education provides open enrollment, group lessons for homeschoolers, and a small class size.   To register, please contact  Mrs. Schane at 503-522-4204 or email her at  iteachart1@mac.com  (Lake Oswego)
 

Teresa Williamson, Piano and Flute Lessons.  Teresa Williamson has newly moved to the area and has been teaching music lessons for 26 years. She was a music major at the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC and has a music degree. She specializes in the Suzuki method but also teaches in the traditional style. She is accepting students ages 4 through 104. If you are interested please call Teresa at 503-543-2369 for more information. (Scappoose)

Thomas John Walpole Drum Instruction  Never drummed...but want to! Parents or students who are searching for a very experienced Christ centered drum instructor who has a passion for playing and for teaching, and a sense of humor!  I have been drumming for over 40 years and have taught for over 25. For the last 15 years I have been blessed to be in Beaverton Foursquare's Music Ministry.  (If you had been witness to my playing during any of the past services, I would pray that you would have experienced true, love of our GOD worship, and not a "performance." It's truly God in me that allows me to worship, play and teach the way I do.)  I have taught students from age 5yrs and up. Students having any type of a learning problem are always welcome for after all, might it be that GOD sees "us" as having just a bit of a learning problem...yet HE loves us! I offer a free introductory 45+ min. lesson that lets you check out studio, equipment, and teacher (that's me) to see if it's a match. For more info. call 503-590-9547  or

e-mail thomasjohn3sixteenwalpole@yahoo.com (Beaverton)

Tualatin Hills Parks and Recreation District (Science, Nature, PE, Art, Language classes), covering most of Washington County (see their district map on their website), offers some homeschool friendly classes and would offer more if there were interest.  Secular, but wholesome atmosphere. Past classes have included nature studies, ASL, art, PE classes, swim classes and homeschool swim team.  Check their class search and type in homeschool to see what they are currently offering (Fall and Winter/Spring schedules only, i.e. homeschool classes are generally offered only during the school year).  Some homeschool classes or drop-ins are not in their booklet or on the online schedules, so call a facility to see if they are currently offering anything for homeschoolers. Unfortunately many classes have been cancelled due to lack of turn out by the homeschool community, so opportunties come and then go at the various facilities. Let's change that!  (Washington County) 
 

Tualatin Valley Studio of Music   Private piano, flute, and band instruction is provided to homeschooled students by Jill Gambill who holds a Bachelor of Music in Performance and Education from the U of O, and has been a private teacher for 25 years in piano, flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, and recorder.  She has also provided a homeschool band program (beginning, intermediate and advanced) for the last 7 years to the homeschool community at various locations in Beaverton.  She currently has openings in private flute instruction and all band levels. Students must provide their own instrument.  For more information please contact Jill at ima.flautist@verizon.net  (NW Beaverton-Portland) 

 Valley Suzuki Violin  Lindsay Durant, founder and teacher at Valley Suzuki Violin, is a registered Suzuki violin teacher in books one through ten and is dedicated to helping all children attain musical ability through the Suzuki method in a friendly and warm atmosphere.  The Suzuki method is a unique approach to learning the violin that was developed by Dr. Shinichi Suzuki more than fifty years ago.  Dr. Suzuki, who realized the implications of the fact that all children learn to speak their native language with ease, began to apply the basic principles of language acquisition to learning the violin.  His method, call the "mother tongue approach," is based strongly on parent involvement (and for this reason, fits nicely with the homeschool philosophy), loving encouragement, constant repetition, and listening.  For more information, please call 503-583-2490 or see their website.

 Veritas School will sponser a new band program open to homeschoolers begining Fall 2010 that will meet on the Veritas campus, 401 Mission Drive, Newberg.  For more information, please contact Wendy Vece at 
wvecestudios@ verizon.net or phone 503-487-7604 (Newberg)
 
 Westside Music School offers piano lessons, keyboard lessons and teaches all levels from children’s music lessons to beginner music lessons to intermediate and advanced music instruction. The Westside Music School philosophy is founded on the Harmony Road Curriculum (we are in affiliation with the Harmony Road Music Center in Clackamas) where students learn by doing: first by honing the ear and singing; then by singing and playing on the piano or keyboard; finally bringing the student’s music education full circle by reading notes and composing pieces.  Parent involvement is considered essential for a student's success, and parents are guided in methods to keep the family in a musical "mode" at home. For more information, please go to our website or contact us at 503-626-7181. Located at 13486 NW Cornell Rd, Portland (NW Beaverton-Portland)