Spring 2024 Wednesday Class Descriptions
Abstract Art
Ignite your child’s imagination with our “Abstract Art” class designed for early elementary kids. Through colorful and engaging activities, young artists will explore the world of abstract expression, experimenting with shapes, colors, and textures to create their own unique masterpieces. Join us for a journey of creativity and self-expression, where children discover the joy of breaking free from traditional forms and embracing the boundless possibilities of abstract art.
Meet the Teacher: Tiffany C
My name is Tiffany and I am 33! I have two children, Tinsley (5) and Carmine (2 1/2). We live in pitman nj and have two dogs. Both of my children are very social, curious, and love to make new friends!
Animal Explorers
Embark on a thrilling adventure with our “Animal Explorers” class, where young learners discover the wonders of the animal kingdom. Through captivating lessons and interactive activities, children will delve into the diverse habitats, behaviors, and adaptations of fascinating creatures from around the globe. Join us for a journey of exploration and curiosity as budding naturalists become enthusiastic “Animal Explorers,” gaining a deeper understanding and appreciation for the incredible world of wildlife.
Meet the teacher: Whitney P
I have my bs in speech pathology. I have taught preschool in the past. I am willing to learn what is needed to be the best teacher I can be.
Circuit Science
Circuit Science is the bridge between simple circuits and full robotics. Children will learn more advanced circuit theory, while learning how single purpose electronics do what they do with microcontrollers and logic chips. Students will explore hands-on with prototyping breadboards, simple logic integrated circuits, and Arduino compatible microcontrollers, leading up to an LED model elevator demonstration.
Meet the teacher: Verne H
I’ve been working with computers and electronics for 20+ years. Initally as a kid, I would take things apart to see how they worked and then put them back together. Needless to say, my parents weren’t the biggest fans of having the T.V. sitting in the living room in a million pieces. After college, I started out working in a public school supporting students with IT and then eventually became an IT Administrator. To complete my nerd degree, I began playing DnD and online streaming.
Ecoscience
Dive into the intersection of ecology and science in our “EcoScience” course, where students explore the intricate relationships between living organisms and their environments. Through hands-on experiments, field studies, and dynamic discussions, participants will gain a holistic understanding of ecological principles and their scientific applications. Join us for an enlightening journey into the world of EcoScience, fostering environmental awareness and a deeper appreciation for the interconnected web of life on our planet.
Meet the teacher: Jaime W
Jaime is music lover and a curious individual. She is a mother to three human children, lover of all fur babies. Jaime comes up with some creative and inventive classes that we are so excited for.
Event Planning
This course will allow students to create the theme, budget, food, decorations and more for the homecoming dance. They will earn all about all the fine details that go into creating an amazing event.
Meet the teacher: Jenn H
I taught in public and private schools for many years after getting my NJ Teaching Certificate. Now I am a homeschool mom of one graduated son and one in 8th grade. I have taught in 3 local co-ops over the years. I love teaching history and encouraging students to develop their own opinions about our past and how we can make our future better. I also enjoy crocheting, cooking and basically anything creative.
Experimental Archaeology Class
Ever wonder how historians know so much about the past? Experiments aren’t just for science. Most of what we know about history can be credited to experimental archaeology, the study of history through replicating and testing ancient technology. In this class, students will take a trip back in time and learn about the ancient civilizations, such as Mesopotamia, Mesoamerica, Egypt, the Celts, Rome, Peru, Greece, China, and India! Through hands-on experiences, we will dive into each ancient culture and learn how the people of those times lived. Beginning with an introduction to archeology, students will explore some of the largest and most influential ancient civilizations and learn about the impact they had on history. We will become archeologists, using investigative techniques to recreate tools and ancient technology to better understand how ancient people lived. Students will also learn how the ancient civilizations have affected their own lives by studying the accomplishments of these cultures and how we still utilize these tools today.
Meet the teacher: Heather W
I began this crazy homeschooling journey about 10 years ago, after teaching in the public school system as a Special Needs Teacher. I have a degree in Education as well as Deaf Studies, which I have decided to completely disregard to become a school bus driver. This way, I can be home with my amazingly witty, yet super sweet children instead (I know every Mom says this about their kids!). I use American Sign Language on a daily basis at home and I am one of the biggest nerds I know. I am a DM in DnD (only the biggest and bestest nerds in the nerdery will know what I mean). I am also a Trekkie, a Whovian, an Otaku, an artist/musician, a Gamer, and my Patronus is a fox.
Exploring Poetry
Ignite the poetic spark in young minds with our “Exploring Poetry” course designed for elementary kids. Through interactive activities and creative exercises, children will unlock the magic of words, rhythm, and expression in the enchanting world of poetry. Join us for a delightful exploration where budding poets discover the joy of crafting verses, unraveling the beauty of language, and expressing their unique perspectives through the art of poetry.
Meet the Teacher: Irene S
I am a certified elementary education teacher with almost 10 years experience working with special needs students. I am a widowed single parent and currently teach my daughter and my friend’s son in a homeschool setting.
Fun Math Games
Students will learn and practice math through fun games and puzzles.
Meet the Teacher: Alysia A
I’m Alysia, 31 years old, moved to NJ from Rhode Island last year. I’m just entering the homeschooling journey with my 5- and 3-year-old daughters. Before moving to NJ I worked in accounts payable for a jewelry manufacturer and I still work for the same company but switched positions so I can work remotely and have the fixability to be a SAHM
Geography
Introduce young minds to the wonders of the world with our “Geography for Pre-K” class. Through interactive activities and engaging play, children will embark on a captivating journey to discover continents, countries, and diverse cultures. Join us as we cultivate a foundation for spatial awareness and global curiosity, fostering a love for exploration and a broader understanding of the world around us in this delightful Pre-K Geography class.
Meet the Teacher: Allie H
As a young child, I always cherished the days at my mother’s preschool, playing with the little ones. Ever since I have enjoyed working with and teaching children. After a career in the fashion industry for over a decade, I was longing to work with children again. I had my own childcare business for many years in Philadelphia before having my, now 8 year-old. I love homeschooling, adventuring, staying active, singing, dancing, and having an all-around good time!
Gym Class
Get ready for active fun with our “Gym Class” designed specifically for preschoolers! In this energetic and interactive class, little ones will engage in age-appropriate exercises, games, and activities that promote gross motor skills, coordination, and social development. Through play and movement, children will discover the joy of staying active while building a foundation for a healthy and active lifestyle. Join us for a preschool gym experience where fitness meets fun!
Meet the Teacher: Allie H
As a young child, I always cherished the days at my mother’s preschool, playing with the little ones. Ever since I have enjoyed working with and teaching children. After a career in the fashion industry for over a decade, I was longing to work with children again. I had my own childcare business for many years in Philadelphia before having my, now 8 year-old. I love homeschooling, adventuring, staying active, singing, dancing, and having an all-around good time!
Into the Night Sky: Constellations
Embark on a celestial adventure with our “Into the Night Sky: Constellations” class, where stargazers of all ages explore the enchanting stories written in the stars. Through immersive lessons and interactive observation sessions, participants will unlock the secrets of constellations, connecting the dots to reveal mythological tales and scientific wonders. Join us under the cosmic canopy for a captivating exploration of the night sky, where imagination meets astronomy in a journey through the stories woven among the stars.
Meet the teacher: Monica S
Hi! I’m Monica. I have 3 crazy kids who love being outside and exploring new places. I have a master’s degree in environmental education and taught for about 17 years before having my own children. I love the freedom homeschool offers and am so glad to be a part of this community:)
Intro to Sight Words
Kickstart your child’s reading journey with our “Intro to Sight Words” class, tailored for early learners. Through engaging activities and interactive lessons, children will build a strong foundation in recognizing and reading essential sight words, empowering them to become confident readers. Join us for a literacy adventure where young minds take their first exciting steps into the world of words and reading fluency.
Meet the teacher: Monica S
Hi! I’m Monica. I have 3 crazy kids who love being outside and exploring new places. I have a master’s degree in environmental education and taught for about 17 years before having my own children. I love the freedom homeschool offers and am so glad to be a part of this community:)
Introduction to politics and political activism
This class provides a simple introduction to the study of how government works and what politics is, looking into the working of Congress. Students will understand new terms linked to American politics, understand the differences between the political parties, and evaluate what skills and qualities are needed to be an effective politician.They can then go further by learning about youth movements in history, and, finally, considering actions they might take around the issues they care about.
Meet the teacher: Gail S
I am a child & family therapist, specializing in childhood trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sports performance. I enjoy helping youth understand themselves better while also giving them strategies, to help them be their best selves. My hope is to bring more knowledge and tools for optimal mental health to children in my community.
Journalism
Uncover the dynamic world of journalism in our comprehensive course designed for aspiring storytellers. From honing interview skills to crafting compelling narratives, participants will learn the art and ethics of reporting across various media platforms. Join us for an immersive journalism experience, where students develop the critical thinking and communication skills necessary to navigate the fast-paced landscape of news and storytelling.
Meet the Teacher: Lauryn D
Ms Lauryn is a long time homeschooling mom of one amazing daughter, and I am also a wellness coach and a lifelong searcher. In my limited spare time, I like to paint, bake, and spend time with my three cats. I can also be found playing Animal Crossing and collecting Tim Burton and Alice in Wonderland memorabilia.
Latin Dance
Learn the basics of Latin dance. Learn to dance salsa and bachata, two popular styles of Latin dance, while simultaneously learning social skills and building confidence.
Meet the Teacher: Kimberly M
My name is Kimberly Massey and I have worked with children and families in the behavioral health field for over 10 years. I enjoy helping others move from surviving in life, to thriving in life. I enjoy anything adventurous or outdoors, from hiking to roller coasters. I love to travel and explore new places and cultures.
Nature Investigators
Ignite curiosity and spark a love for the great outdoors with our “Nature Investigators” course designed specifically for preschoolers. Through playful exploration and hands-on activities, little learners will discover the wonders of the natural world, from identifying plants and animals to exploring the secrets of the changing seasons. Join us as young nature investigators embark on a journey of discovery, fostering a deep connection to the environment and nurturing a lifelong appreciation for the beauty of nature.
Meet the Teacher: Laura G
I am Laura. I am a retired nurse. I love gardening. I am also a self taught intuitive artist using many media as my experimental playground. In my free time I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, hiking with my dog, yoga, and going to the beach.
Personal Finance
An engaging and age-appropriate class to introduce children to the basics of personal finance. Through fun activities and interactive lessons, students will discover the importance of saving, the concept of budgeting, and smart money choices.
Meet the Teacher: Alysia A
I’m a homeschooling, remote-working mom of two little girls. Originally from Rhode Island, our family recently moved to New Jersey last year. We love spending time outdoors, hiking or playing at the park, crafting and reading.
Reading Challenge
Embark on a literary adventure with our “Reading Challenge” class, designed to inspire a love for reading while enhancing comprehension and fluency skills. Through engaging activities and personalized challenges, students will explore a diverse range of texts, from classic literature to contemporary favorites, fostering a lifelong appreciation for books. Join us in the “Reading Challenge” class, where each page turned is a step towards unlocking the limitless worlds that literature has to offer.
Meet the Teacher: Irene S
I am a certified elementary education teacher with almost 10 years experience working with special needs students. I am a widowed single parent and currently teach my daughter and my friend’s son in a homeschool setting.
Rock Painting
Relaxing art therapy class
Meet the Teacher: Bethany J
Hi, I’m Beth. I’m a mom to one daughter. I’ve been homeschooling making my own curriculums for 3 years now. I enjoy walking with my dog, hiking, going to amusement parks, reading, and all things spooky.
Short Story Game Show
This dynamic and interactive class invites you to explore the richness of great short stories from various literary traditions and eras, followed by exhilarating game show-style challenges that test your knowledge and understanding of the readings.
In this class, you will delve into the masterful storytelling of renowned authors, uncovering the nuances of plot, character development, and thematic elements that make these short stories timeless classics. From the suspenseful tales of Franz Kafka to the witty narratives of Mark Twain, each week will bring forth a new literary gem for discussion and analysis.
But that’s not all! The class takes a unique twist as you engage in game show-style activities that bring literature to life in a fun and competitive way. Imagine buzzing in to answer questions about the characters, settings, and plot twists of the short stories you’ve just read, or participating in team-based challenges that put your literary knowledge to the test. It’s an opportunity to reinforce your understanding of the material while enjoying a spirited and engaging learning environment.
Unearth the treasures hidden within short stories and bring your literary knowledge to new heights!
Meet the Teacher: Besty C
Miss Betsy is the mom of two co-op students and is looking forward to her second year as a teacher with SJHA. When she isn’t teaching at co-op she enjoys running her e-commerce business, cooking new recipes and reading. This summer, Miss Betsy became a Minecraft certified educator to better serve her community of students at SJHA co-op with more fun and interesting classes.
Sign Language
Dive into the rich and expressive world of American Sign Language (ASL) in our immersive class. Designed for beginners, this course provides a comprehensive introduction to ASL vocabulary, grammar, and cultural nuances. Join us to develop essential communication skills, bridge linguistic gaps, and embark on a journey towards embracing and appreciating the beauty of sign language.
Meet the teacher: Whitney P
I have my bs in speech pathology. I have taught preschool in the past. I am willing to learn what is needed to be the best teacher I can be.
Spring Nature Class
Celebrate the vibrant season of renewal and growth with our “Spring Nature Class.” Designed to connect participants with the wonders of the natural world during springtime, this course offers hands-on exploration, guided observations, and interactive activities. Join us as we delve into the beauty of blooming landscapes, budding flora, and the lively ecosystems that define the enchanting spirit of spring.
Meet the teacher: Lindsey D
I have been homeschooling my two kids since 2019. Finding new, fun, and creative ways for them to learn is one of my favorite things to do.
Story and Craft
Spark the imagination of your little ones with our “Story and Craft” class designed exclusively for preschoolers. Through enchanting storytelling sessions and creative hands-on crafts, children will bring their favorite tales to life while developing fine motor skills and artistic expression. Join us for a delightful journey where stories come alive through the magic of crafting, fostering a love for literature and creativity in our youngest learners.
Meet the Teacher: Laura G
I am Laura. I am a retired nurse. I love gardening. I am also a self taught intuitive artist using many media as my experimental playground. In my free time I enjoy cooking, baking, reading, hiking with my dog, yoga, and going to the beach.
Symbolism in Fairytales
Unlock the secrets hidden within the enchanting world of fairy tales in “Symbolism in Fairy Tales.” Dive into the magical realms of storytelling, where every character, color, and object holds a deeper meaning. Through the use of reading, discussions, and projects, this course invites students to embark on a captivating journey, exploring the rich tapestry of symbols woven into timeless tales.
Meet the Teacher: Lauryn D
Ms Lauryn is a long time homeschooling mom of one amazing daughter, and I am also a wellness coach and a lifelong searcher. In my limited spare time, I like to paint, bake, and spend time with my three cats. I can also be found playing Animal Crossing and collecting Tim Burton and Alice in Wonderland memorabilia.
TED Talk- an introduction to public speaking
TED Talk is an organization that brings “expert” public speakers to a forum for people to come and listen. In this class, students will view a variety of TED Talks and analyze the positive public speaking traits of each. Then they select a topic for their own TED Talk and research, take notes, and prep. They will have practice time where they record themselves to analyze and revise as needed.
Meet the teacher: Gail S
I am a child & family therapist, specializing in childhood trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sports performance. I enjoy helping youth understand themselves better while also giving them strategies, to help them be their best selves. My hope is to bring more knowledge and tools for optimal mental health to children in my community.
True Crimes
Dive into the gripping world of criminal investigations with our “True Crimes” class, where participants explore real-life mysteries, investigations, and legal proceedings. From infamous criminal cases to the intricacies of forensic science, this course provides a captivating examination of the true stories that have shaped the world of criminal justice. Join us for an immersive journey into the fascinating and often complex realm of true crimes, delving into the narratives that intrigue, challenge, and illuminate the pursuit of justice.
Meet the Teacher: Besty C
Miss Betsy is the mom of two co-op students and is looking forward to her second year as a teacher with SJHA. When she isn’t teaching at co-op she enjoys running her e-commerce business, cooking new recipes and reading. This summer, Miss Betsy became a Minecraft certified educator to better serve her community of students at SJHA co-op with more fun and interesting classes.
Typing Fun!
The Typing Fun! Class is an engaging and interactive program that introduces children to the exciting world of typing and keyboard skills in a fun and enjoyable way. In this dynamic course, students will develop the fundamental skills needed for efficient and accurate typing. Through interactive games, engaging activities, and creative challenges, children will learn proper hand placement, finger positioning, and key recognition. The class incorporates a variety of age-appropriate typing exercises and drills to improve typing speed and accuracy. Students will also learn important computer literacy skills, such as navigating software programs, using keyboard shortcuts, and formatting text.
Meet the Teacher: Taren T
I’m a boy mom to 3! I love being active and busy! We were a military family for 15 years so serving in many ways holds a special place in our hearts. Ultimately, I desire to grow closer to God every day and honor Him with my relationships and interactions.
Writing Excellence
Our writing course is base on the IEW methodolgy and will be utilizing the IEW history books. IEW is an intensive writing program designed to help students improve their overall skills. While teacher led, students are required to participate.
For this class students will:
*Have basic writing skills which includes: basic grammar (identify nouns, adjectives, verbs and adverbs.) Be able to write a complete sentence.
*Student participation is required.
* There maybe homework.
Meet the Teacher: Lisa R
Lisa married John in 1999. Together they raise their four sons. They have two graduated homeschoolers and two still learning at home. Homeschooling is a way of life for their family.