(Please scroll down for Teachers Bios)
All CHAT classes, other than our elective courses this year, are academic in nature. Therefore, assignments will be given for homework. Students are expected to complete homework assignments and come prepared for classes each week!
ALL courses have supplies listed, although, it is helpful for students to plan on having notebook paper, pens, and pencils for each class. Specific notebook requirements are listed for each course or will be explained on the first day of classes.
All CHAT classes have intended grade levels, although, students are free to overlap grade levels depending on courses needed.
ADVANCED MATH
High School (11th – 12th)
This course will include topics and concepts covered in an intermediate college level Algebra course. Review of Algebra 2 is also included. Topics covered, but not limited to, are, interval notation, equations of circles, matrices, system of equations and inequalities, trigonometry, etc. This course will prepare students for college level mathematics courses
Textbook/Workbook: NONE required
Supplies: : pencils, pens, notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
ALGEBRA 1
High School
This course will include mathematics instruction on integers, equations, graphing linear equations, polynomials, factoring, and geometry concepts. Saxon mathematics is used for this course and includes review of previous concepts in each lesson. Students will have homework to complete daily
Textbook/Workbook: Saxon Algebra 1 3rd edition
Supplies: : pencils, pens, notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
ALGEBRA 2
High School
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 and/or geometry should have been completed prior to entering this course.
Instruction will begin with a review of Algebra 1 concepts and the course will include informal geometry, negative exponents, quadratic equations, metric system and conversions, logarithms, and advanced factoring, word problems, etc Saxon mathematics is used for this course and includes review of previous concepts in each lesson. Students will have homework to complete daily
Textbook/Workbook: Saxon Algebra 2, 3rd Edition (2nd Edition will also work).
Supplies: pencils, pens, notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
AMERICAN HISTORY
High School
This course covers American History from the War of Independence to Modern Times.
Each student will be responsible for reading lessons at home, write a short synopsis and be prepared to share them in class. We will study two lessons a week. There are pre-test and lesson quizzes that will be assigned. There will be occasional music, art projects or food during the class that will correspond with the lessons. Research activities will also be assigned for some of the lessons, as well as other supplemental activities to complete.
Textbook/Workbook: Mystery of History Volume 4 - Wars of Independence to Modern Times by Linda Lacour Hobar
This book can be pre-ordered at Bright Ideas Press for $69.95. It will be released sometime in September or October, but with your order they will send you a download of the the lessons for the first quarter.
https://www.brightideaspress.com/store/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=4_46_83
Supplies: 3 ring binder, paper, pencils, pens
BIOLOGY
High School
Exploring Creation with Biology is an award-winning, college-prep biology course that provides a detailed introduction to the methods and concepts of general biology. With a strong emphasis on vocabulary and experiments, the course provides the student with a solid background in biology which is presented an in a readable, conversational tone.
Textbook/Workbooks: Apologia Textbook: Exploring Creation with Biology; 2nd edition
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook, colored pencils. A box of late free dissection gloves (look for size to fit student’s hands! Name will be kept on box for class use)
A one-time $25 dollar lab fee will be due with your first payment.
CHEMISTRY
High School
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Biology. This is a lecture course where students will be required to take notes. We will do hands on experiments at home and in class. Students will need to be able to complete charts and graphs.
Textbook/Workbooks: Apologia Textbook: Exploring Creation with Chemistry 2nd edition
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook, colored pencils, hi lighters, and safety goggles, large shirt or apron for experiments (optional and can be kept in class ) Apron NOT required, goggles ARE REQUIRED!
A one-time $25 dollar lab fee will be due with your first payment.
CONSUMER MATHEMATICS
High School
This class will include topics related to applying math skills that are needed in our society and being a consumer in that society. Example: Banking (Checking accounts, savings accounts), Budgeting, Insurance, Credit Cards, Stocks and Bonds, Stock Market, and more. Related vocabulary will be included. Class will begin with a brief look at the "history of money"!!
Textbook/ Workbook: Abeka Consumer Mathematics. Code # 26603
Supplies: Paper, pens, pencils, notebook paper, notebook
ECONOMICS 2nd Semester January – May
High School
This course will be an overview of economics at a high school level. Students will study economic principles, financial markets, market cycles, market types, personal finance, and government economics. Whatever Happened to Penny Candy will be used as well as additional material that the instructor will provide.
Textbook/Workbooks: Whatever Happened to Penny Candy? Richard Maybury. Bluestocking Press. ISBN: 9780942617627
Supplies: 3 ring binder, paper, pencils, pens
ENGLISH / LANGUAGE
Middle School 7th- 8th
This course will include reviewing/learning proper grammar usage, improving spelling ability & vocabulary knowledge, and a heavy emphasis on improving reading and writing skills. Students can expect to improve their reading skills by reading and studying a variety of literature forms including (but not limited to) short stories, novels, and poetry. Students will learn how to analyze stories, apply elements of literature, identify figures of speech, and further develop their critical thinking skills. Students will be instructed and encouraged to improve writing skills in sentences, paragraphs, reports, short stories, essays and poetry. Practical application of reading/writing will be provided. Reading and writing homework will be required along with oral presentations and special projects
Textbook/Workbook: Shurley English : English Made Easy Level 8 from Shurley English Homeschool. Order from Rainbow Resource for a cheaper price. ISBN# 978-1-881940-24-1
Some novels, which can be checked out at the library or purchased inexpensively, and other reading materials (such as newspaper/magazine articles) will be required periodically, but plenty of advance notice will be given.
Supplies: A designated loose-leaf binder, college-ruled notebook paper, pen or pencils
(Some misc. supplies such as index cards, colored pencils/paper and project boards may be required throughout the year for special projects)
ENGLISH / LANGUAGE
9th – 10th
This course will focus on solid Grammar skills and composition, writing in variety, and vocabulary/spelling. A 10th grade curriculum will be used, although the class will be structured to fit individual needs. The course will also be interactive, require homework, book reports, and tests.
Textbook/Workbooks: Abeka: Grammar & Composition Work-text Fourth Edition IV
And Sadlier Oxford Vocabulary Workshop Level D
Novels, which can be checked out at the library or purchased inexpensively, and other reading materials (such as newspaper/magazine articles) will be required periodically, but plenty of advance notice will be given.
Supplies: A designated loose-leaf binder, college-ruled notebook paper, pen or pencils
(Some misc. supplies such as index cards, colored pencils/paper and project boards will be required throughout the year for special projects)
ENGLISH / LANGUAGE
High School 11th – 12th
In this course, students will acquire the language, reading, writing, and speaking/listening skills necessary for success in college, career, and beyond. Students will become critical readers and thinkers as they dive deeply into the texts presented throughout this course. Students will learn how to effectively research, integrate, and present their findings, as well as cite their sources. This course will have a strong emphasis on improving SAT test-taking skills including boosting vocabulary knowledge and (especially) essay-writing.
Textbook/Workbooks: Abeka: Workbook V for Handbook of Grammar and Composition . Item # 108308
Novels, which can be checked out at the library or purchased inexpensively, and other reading materials (such as newspaper and magazine articles) may be required periodically, but plenty of advance notice will be given.
Supplies: A designated loose-leaf binder, college-ruled notebook paper, pen or pencils
(Some misc. supplies such as index cards, colored pencils/paper and project boards may be required throughout the year for special projects)
GENERAL SCIENCE
Middle School 7th or 8th
The course covers such topics as the scientific method, designing experiments, simple machines, archaeology, geology, paleontology, biology, and human anatomy and physiology, and is the first systematic introduction to the sciences at the upper level.
Textbook/ Workbooks: Apologia; Exploring Creation with General Science; 2nd Edition
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook, colored pencils, safety goggles (will be collected and kept in class)
A one-time $25 dollar lab fee will be due with your first payment.
GEOMETRY
High School OR a Middle School student that has successfully completed and Algebra 1 course
Geometry requires students to focus on logical proof and critical thinking when solving problems or evaluating arguments. Geometry provides the necessary mathematical tools for complex reasoning and solving problems in the sciences, technology, engineering, and many skilled trades and professions
This course will include an introduction to the foundation of points, lines, circles, angles, intersecting lines, parallel lines, polygons, congruence, perimeter, area, volume, and an in depth analysis of plane, solid, and coordinate geometry, as well as trigonometry
Textbook/Workbook: NONE required. Students will need a notebook for LOTS of handouts and worksheets. A workbook may be used, but will be provided for students
Supplies: Pencils, pens, colored pencils, notebook paper, and notebook
GOVERNMENT 1st Semester September – December
High School
This course will look at the American system of government on a high school level. Painless American Government, will be used as well as additional material that the instructor will provide. Topics covered will include principles of government, The Constitution, founding documents, branches of government, public policy, and civil rights and liberties.
Textbook/Workbooks: Painless American Government. Jeffery Strausser. Barron’s.
ISBN: 9780764126017
Supplies: 3 ring binder, paper, pencils, pens
HISTORY
Middle School 7th – 8th
This course will cover history from the creation to Resurrection. Each student will be responsible for reading lessons at home, write a short synopsis and be prepared to share them in class. Pre-tests and lesson quizes will be assigned as well as supplemental art activities.
Textbook/Workbook: Mystery of History volume 1, Creation to Resurrection by Linda H. Hobar ISBN# 1-892427-04-4
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook and colored pencils.
HUMAN ANATOMY
High School
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry. This is considered an honors course. Dissection labs will be required. Teaching from Apologia, The Human Body Fearfully and Wonderfully Made curriculum. Worksheets and handouts are provided as needed for notes in class. This will be a lecture course, with hands on work required. This course will cover the anatomy and physiology of the human body’s 11 organ systems in detail.
Textbook/Workbooks: Apologia textbook: The Human Body, 2nd Edition
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook and colored pencils, a box of late free dissection gloves (look for size to fit student’s hands! Name will be kept on box for class use)
A one-time $25 dollar lab fee will be due with your first payment.
INTRO TO ALGEBRA 1
High School
This course will be for students that need a little more time to complete an Algebra 1 course. Concepts will be taken at a slower pace to instill competency and confidence! A complete review of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, and percentages will complete the beginning of the course. Algebra concepts including equations, polynomials, factoring, and graphing linear equations will be the core of this course. Students will have homework to complete daily.
Textbook/Workbook: NONE required. Teacher generated worksheets and in class workbooks and textbooks will be used
Supplies: pencils, pens, notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
MIDDLE SCHOOL MATH
Middle School
Middle School mathematics instruction including whole number review, fractions, decimals, percent, word problems, probability, and beginning algebra concepts with an introduction to positive and negative numbers.
Textbook/Workbook: Saxon 8/7 3rd Edition (this is a soft cover textbook) Check Amazon for less expensive cost
Supplies: pencils, pens, paper. Notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Middle School 8th
The text discusses such topics as the atmosphere, the hydrosphere, weather, the structure of the earth, environmentalism, the physics of motion, Newton’s Laws, gravity, and astrophysics. The author especially concentrates on the myths generated by the hysterical environmentalist movement.
Textbook/Workbooks: Apologia textbook: Exploring Creation with Physical Science ; 2nd Edition
Supplies: Loose leaf notebook, colored pencils, safety goggles (will be collected and kept in class)
A one-time $25 dollar lab fee will be due with your first payment.
PRE ALGEBRA
Middle School
This course will include fundamental problems of whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percentages. Simple concepts of algebra are also introduced, including integers, equations, roots, and exponents. Geometry concepts are also included in this course.
Saxon mathematics is used for this course and includes review of previous concepts in each lesson. Students will have homework to complete daily
Textbook/Workbook: Saxon Algebra ½ 3rd Edition
Supplies: : pencils, pens, notebook requirement will be discussed in class on first day
WORLD GEOGRAPHY
High School
This course will focus on mapping activities, atlas usage, research, and culture of the countries of the world. Study will include characteristics and traits of each continent, key geography terms, and interesting research, reports, and projects.
Textbook/Workbooks: None required for this course, although, it would be very helpful for your student to have their own Student Atlas.
Supplies: 2 inch - 3 ring binder, notebook paper, pens, pencils, and markers or colored pencils.
WORLD HISTORY
High School
This course is a chronological, classical approach to World History and Historical Events from a Christian perspective. It will start with Creation and go through the middles ages, with additional lessons on the Reformation, the World Wars, the Holocaust, and touching on some of the explorers of the New World. Curriculum used for this course will be “Mystery of History,” volumes 1, 2, and 3 by Linda Lacour Hobar, whose writing style brings dusty, old history into living color! If you have one or more of these books it can be very helpful, but you DO NOT NEED TO PURCHASE these books. The lessons that will be studied in this class will be reproduced in a notebook for the student for a one-time fee of $8.00 per student. Students will be required to take the notebook home for reading and bring it back to each class for highlighting and additional note taking.
Textbook/Workbooks: NONE Required. The lessons that will be studied in this class will be reproduced in a notebook for the student for a one-time fee of $8.00 per student due with your first payment.
Supplies: 3 ring binder, notebook paper, pencils, pens, highlighter, colored pencils for mapping
4th/5th Grade Track of Classes
9:30-2:00
9:30 English
10:30 Math
12:00 Social Studies
1:00 Science
English: Emphasis on English grammar and usage as well as practice with essential reference skills for using dictionaries and encyclopedias. Parts of speech and sentence structures are examined in detail to help students gain a mastery of grammar. The Writing Process is explained step-by-step to be implemented in a variety of writing assignments.
Textbook/Workbook: Bob Jones English 5 Writing and Grammar Worktext
Math: No textbook required. Material will cover review of basic skills, including whole numbers and decimals, as well as, continued drill of basic facts, and development of algebraic reasoning and geometric concepts. Some workbooks and Saxon Math material may be provided by instructor or used in the classroom.
Social Studies: This course will include a study of the 50 states and a literature unit on the Lewis and Clark Expedition provides a thrilling way to drive home the relevance of knowing geography. Students complete assignments by using atlases, outline maps, and other research materials. Incorporating the 5 themes of geography students learn capitals, place location, climate, physical geography, and much more.
Textbook/Workbook:Children's Illustrated Atlas of the United States (Rand McNally, Schoolhouse)
Science: Apologia Zoology books will cover a study of swimming creatures from the microscopic to the massive as well as, a study of land animals that live in the jungle, forests, farms, and even your backyard!!!
Textbook / Workbook: Apologia: book 2 Swimming Creatures of the Fifth Day and book 3 Land Animals of the Sixth Day . Additional material will be covered throughout the course this year. This material will be teacher created and provided for your students
6th Grade Track of Classes
9:30 – 2:00
9:30 Math
10:30 English
12:00 Social Studies
1:00 Science
Math: This course covers decimals, fractions, number lines, measurement, area perimeter, ratio, unit conversion, probability, angles, and coordinates. Students will have homework to complete daily.
Textbook/ Workbook: Saxon 7/6 Student Text, Saxon 7/6 Tests and Worksheets, Saxon 7/6 Solutions Manual
English: This course covers sentence types, nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs, prepositions, and conjunctions. It will also cover the personal narrative, research paper, historical fiction, compare and contrast essay, and other types of writing. In addition to grammar and writing, this course will include vocabulary and some reading. Students will have homework to complete daily.
Textbook / Workbooks: Bob Jones Writing and Grammar 6 Student Text and Wordly Wise Book 6
Social Studies: Covering American History. This course covers from the time of the explorers through the early part of the 1800's. Homework will be given daily.
Textbook/ Workbooks: All American History Vol 1 Reader and All American History Vol 1 Activity Book
Science: This course covers the earth, cells and organisms, matter and energy, astronomy, heredity, and the nervous and immune systems. Experiments will conducted. Reading will be required.
Textbook/ Workbooks: Bob Jones Science 6 Student Text 3rd edition, Bob Jones Science 6 Student Activity Manual 3rd ed.
The third edition is available through christianbook.com and amazon.com.
ELECTIVE COURSES
Elective courses include FLVS Latin and Spanish this year, as well as, Middle School Spanish, along with other courses. See Descriptions for each Elective Course below
Elective courses are offered Tuesdays and Thursdays and some are offered on Wednesdays this year. Some Academic courses may also be offered on Wednesday if there is enough interest
ART
4th - 12th
12:00 / 2:00 Tuesday
Students will work with various art mediums, including polymer clay, pottery fired in kiln, glass ornaments, watercolors, acrylics on canvas, zentangles, mosaics, reverse glass painting, colored pencils, oil pastels, abstract mixed media, and more!
Some detailed lessons in Art include: Lighthouse Watercolor and Color Theory, Sea Gull Watercolor, Fall Watercolor and Christmas scene watercolor
Students will possibly participate in the FAFO Art show this semester !
A one- time supply fee of $50 to cover all Art supplies for the semester (September – December) is due the first day of classes, September 9th.
ART
4th - 12th
3:00 Thursday
Students will learn drawing and acrylic painting techniques, symmetry, recycled art, collages, mixed media collages, literary art and typography. Each lesson will encourage your artist(s) to think outside of the box with their creativity. Through it all we will learn how to bring glory to God with our talents and skills by seeking inspiration from the Ultimate Artist Himself.
Some projects to expect: Creating robots from recycled items (cans, washers, nuts, tin foil, etc) using our own choice of art form; Symmetry Self Portraits; Creating Personal Fonts; Creating Personal Artist’s Signatures… and so much more!
A one- time supply fee of $50 to cover all Art supplies for the semester (September – December) is due the first day of classes, September 9th.
DANCE
4th - 12th
This is a dance class that will include Jazz, Hip Hop, and Lyrical techniques set to Christian music. Students will begin with warm up and will learn new choreography moves each week. One or more routines will be developed during the semester and will be performed for parents, if possible. Students should practice routines at home
Supplies: Students should wear shorts (follow CHAT guidelines) or pants to class (dance type pants if you have them). Dance shoes are not required, but helpful if you have them. Discussion of foot wear will be covered on the first day of class.
DRAMA
4th - 12th
This is an introduction to drama and acting class. The focus will be reading through and performing fun skits and plays in class. We will learn about vocal projection and diction, characterization, including character analysis, blocking, and use of physical space. Theatre games and small group activities will teach and reinforce these concepts. Besides learning all about acting and plays, we hope to perform, not only for the parents, but for the community as well!
FITNESS
Fitness Class will give the students an opportunity to have a fun workout, twice a week with their friends. They will learn several different types of workouts, good form, how to feed and hydrate their bodies for a healthy lifestyle, and start them on a healthy regimen for years to come. We will do Bootcamp, Strength Training, Functional Training, Cardio, Agility Training, and many others to introduce them to the fitness world. They will have a small amount of homework like keeping a food journal or water journal. We will take a Fitness Test at the beginning and at the end to see their progress. This class is for all fitness types. Moves will be modified for beginners.
Supplies: Each student will need to supply their own mat or towel, a water bottle and a sweat towel.
LATIN 1 (FLVS)
Classroom Facilitator provided by CHAT
Latin Lab
8th - 12th
There is a reason “all roads lead to Rome.” Maybe it is because Romans built much of the ancient world’s highway system. Maybe it is also because the Roman culture and Latin language laid the foundation for much of Western culture. In this course, students find out for themselves as they take their first steps on a lifelong journey of discovery.
Students improve their command of the English language by studying Latin. Students also gain a better understanding of today’s laws and culture by getting into the Roman mind. Latin I is the most comprehensive way to begin.
The purpose of this course is to give students a foundation in Latin grammar and vocabulary. This course also acquaints students with Olympic gods and with the everyday life of the typical Roman. The course sets the students’ feet on a journey as big as their imagination, with a passport to some of the world’s most exciting places.
Access the site link below to view the Florida Department of Education description and standards:
Course description: http://www.cpalms.org/Courses/PublicPreviewCourse1259.aspx
Supplies: Laptop computer
LITERATURE
High School
With step-by-step instructions, Windows to the World teaches high school level students how to analyze elements of literature: setting, plot, characterization, imagery, allusions, parallelism, and much more. This course will also explore the literary devices commonly used by authors. This course also helps students develop Christian discernment skills. And will provide a very solid grounding in literary analysis that will prepare students for college. The study will include short stories, novels, and possibly a play.
Textbook/Workbook: Windows to the World: An Introduction to Literary Analysis Author; Lesha Myers(Student Book) $29
Supplies: A designated loose-leaf binder, college-ruled notebook paper, pens and pencils
MUSIC THEORY/DULCIMER
4th - 12th
Dulcimer means “sweet music”! It is the easiest stringed instrument for beginners and children to play. The Dulcimer is a quiet, sweet sounding instrument of Appalachian origin. Melodies can be played in minutes using just one string , while the others are strummed for a drone harmony. Because there are fewer strings than fingers, beginners can quickly learn to play chords.
The instructor will have a few Dulcimers available to share in class. If students would like to purchase their own practice Dulcimer, they are available from Backyard Music Dulcimers at 203-281-4515. Discount may be available if ordering more than one. They have sold over 30,000 cardboard dulcimers since 1980!
PHYSICAL EDUCATION / P.E.
4th - 7th
This class will be all about teaching children to lead a healthy/active lifestyle while having lots of fun! We will talk about why it is important for our bodies to have exercise and we will have a great time learning how to get that exercise! We will go over the rules and play some of America’s favorite games--kickball, dodgeball, baseball, basketball, football (flag), soccer, ultimate frisbie, and whatever our location allows!!
Supplies: Gym clothing, including tennis shoes with socks, t shirts that “meet and greet” shorts (follow CHAT guidelines). Keep in mind that ladies and gentlemen will be exercising together. Also bring water bottles and sunscreen!!
SPANISH 1
Middle School 6th - 8th
At this grade level, taking a foreign language should be the desire of the student. A commitment to complete homework will be imperative in order for the student to be able to comprehend class. Weekly homework will be assigned. Curriculum must be purchased by each family and ready by the first day of class. The complete package (Teacher Key) will not be necessary since the teacher will be providing instruction. Only the individual LIFEPACS are necessary. If the student wishes to listen to the CD's at home, then the entire package must be purchased. Note: All Spanish I is for beginners. Although this curriculum states 9th – 12th it can be taught to any beginner who is able to read, write and follow simple instructions. We will be using LIFEPAC Spanish I for grades 9th - 12th from Alpha Omega Publications. Please note the box is purple with cookies and a purple sombrero and painting palette. The actual LIFEPAC books have a picture of an adobe home. The ISBN number is different for each book and the box since each can be purchased separately. Please visit the links to see the cover of the curriculum.
Textbook / Workbook:
LIFEPAC® Spanish I Set $87.95 w/ CD's
http://www.christianbook.com/lifepac-electives-spanish-complete-with-cds/9780740320118/pd/304747 same without CD's $79.16.
SPANISH 1 (FLVS)
Classroom Facilitator provided by CHAT
8th - 12th
¡Bienvenidos! Welcome! Students are taking a virtual trip to Spain, Cuba, Colombia, and Argentina. As students explore each country, a student blogger is there to help them learn about the place and its unique characteristics. As students travel to each country, they learn how to speak Spanish in many practical and useful ways. Students learn how to greet people, introduce themselves, and speak about their home, family, school, and community. As students learn basic vocabulary and grammar skills, they expand on their knowledge and learn to speak about more complex topics such as shopping, weather, sports, entertainment, and leisure activities.
The course introduces new words and phrases with pictures, audio clips, and examples. Students learn basic Spanish grammar to help them build fluency and understand the structure of the Spanish language. There are many opportunities to practice through interactive activities in the form of games, written practice, and listening and speaking exercises.
Students also explore the cultures of Spain, Cuba, Colombia, and Argentina by learning about geography, foods, celebrations, and traditions from each place. Student bloggers guide students through these countries and help them appreciate and learn about their diversity.
Access the site link below to view the Florida Department of Education description and standards:
Course description: http://www.cpalms.org/Courses/PublicPreviewCourse1285.aspx
Supplies: Laptop computer
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Teachers Bios
CHRISTIAN HOMESCHOOL ACADEMIC TEACHING
INTRODUCING the CHAT instructors: Below you will find just a little information
about each of the instructors for CHAT! We have many new instructors this year!
As the nature of a 2 day program goes, some of those that have been with us in the
past had to move on to full time employment, others had children attending public schools
part time and had other commitments, while still others returned to school themselves!
Therefore, below you will find some returning and many new faces of CHAT,
and overall we have a phenomenal group of instructors this year!!
VICKI LEIST: Vicki is the Director of CHAT and is a Florida Certified Teacher for Mathematics and
Social Studies, with 33 years teaching experience in local public, private, and homeschool sectors.
She homeschooled for 14 years. Vicki is also a homeschool evaluator and private tutor for
mathematics at all grade levels through college. She previously served as the Florida Parent
Educators Association District 3 Director and Alumni Director and is currently serving as the Vice
Chairman and Treasurer for the FPEA Scholarship Foundation. Vicki teaches Middle and High School
Mathematics courses for CHAT.
ALBA ALSONSO: Alba has been homeschooling for 13 years. Her oldest child recently graduated
from CHAT and her son will be joining us at CHAT this year! Alba is experienced in teaching all grade
levels in various subjects, as well as Spanish and History. Ms. Alonso has served at First Baptist
Church of Leesburg from her kids’ Preschool Choir days to the current Youth Group. She encourages
students and expects them to give their very best for their sake and their future.
Alba will be teaching Spanish for Middle School, FLVS facilitator for Spanish 1, and the Middle School
History instructor.
KRISIE BOWLING: is a Florida Native, but she has also resided in Tennessee and South Carolina while
her husband served in the United States Marine Corps. She is a graduate from Le Cordon Bleu
Culinary Academy. Her background is in Culinary Arts, but her teaching experience includes Food
Safety & Sanitation, Baking, Art Basics, English, General Science, Physical Science, etc. She has 7
years teaching experience homeschooling her 3 children as well as 15 years experience in
Children/Student Ministry. She and her family currently attend and serve at Community Bible
Church of Ocala. Krisie is very excited to be teaching Science for CHAT this year.
BRENDA BURNS: Brenda is a homeschool mom, who has been involved in drama and music for over
30 years as a teacher, performer, accompanist and director. As a teen she began as a private piano
instructor and has taught countless students throughout her career. She also served as Choir Director
and Drama Director for various churches in Southern California, producing musicals of up to 150
students. She was also on staff at Biola University in La Mirada, CA as a drama director for their Youth
Fine Arts Program. Most recently Brenda taught drama and music at Providence Fine Arts School in
St. Louis Missouri. In June, her husband accepted a new music ministry position in Summerfield
Florida and their family packed up and moved to Ocala. Brenda is excited to find CHAT and looks
forward to seeing where God can use her gifts to glorify Him. Brenda will be teaching Drama on
Wednesdays for CHAT this year.
DIANE FOWLER: Diane’s fitness background began in 2000 when she became a stay at home mom to her
only child who was 1year old. She started working out daily, and within a year she was certified to teach
Jazzercise, a dance fitness franchise. She began working at the YMCA about 3 years ago after moving to Ocala,
where she teaches Zumba, Strength Training, Functional Training, and Boot Camp. Diane also became a
Personal Trainer and received certification from the National Academy of Sports Medicine, so that she could
better define her passion of working with individuals on their fitness and nutrition. Diane has also added the
title of Youth Fitness Specialist over this summer! She will be teaching Fitness for CHAT this year.
CANDY HUNKUS: Candy has an extensive background in sales, promotions, and marketing in the
travel industry in Miami and Tampa. She received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Christian Education
from Florida Baptist Theological College now called The Baptist College of Florida. Candy and her
husband, Pastor Michael Hunkus, have 5 teenagers, 4 of them participate in CHAT. Candy has
served in the church as preschool, children and youth director. She has also served as a
church secretary. When her husband attended Seminary in Louisville KY, she worked in
the registrars office and academic records. Last year Candy served as a hall monitor and this year
she will be facilitating the FLVS Latin Lab and teaching Music Theory / Dulcimer; along with
continuing to serve as an assistant for CHAT.
JACK LEBEAU: Jack and his wife began serving the Lord at a church in Kentucky about 9 years ago.
Jack taught Sunday School to high schoolers and was a deacon. Jack is retired, but went back to
school when he and his wife moved back to Florida. He is majoring in Biblical and Education Studies.
His ultimate goal is to teach elementary students at a Christian School. Jack will be teaching the 4th
and 5th grade core academic classes for CHAT this year.
KARA LEIST: Kara is a homeschool graduate and currently attends the College of Central Florida.
Kara has been a competitive gymnast and dancer for 15 years. Most of her training was at Mary
Ellen’s School of Dance and The Performing Arts Conservatory of Ocala. Her latest dance
experience was with the Patriot Dance Team at the College of Central Florida. Kara has been a
dance teacher and choreographer for 8 years, including local theatre and musical productions.
She will be teaching Dance classes for CHAT this year.
BETH MACIEJEWSKI: Beth is a Librarian and veteran homeschool mom, having homeschooled her 3
children since her youngest was 5 years old. She has been very active in the homeschool community
and has taught for Co-op classes in Lake County for many years. Beth has always had a love for learning and enjoys teaching and will bring history to “life’ for our students!! She will be teaching American History, Government, and Economics this year for CHAT.
YVONNE MILLER: Yvonne is a seasoned homeschool mom with 17 plus years teaching experience.
She has taught in homeschool Coops for 15 years, with more recent experience in HEART
homeschool support group and with CHAT for 2 years. Her background is Music, but her teaching
experience includes Geography, Art History, Chorus, Sewing, World History, American History, etc.
Yvonne will be teaching World Geography and World History this year.
LEIGH ANN PARENT: served as one of CHAT's Hall Monitors and Teacher Assistants last year.
Mrs. Parent earned her Registered Nursing degree 13 years ago, and has an ADN from Northampton
College in Pennsylvania. She has also had experience in critical care nursing, and reconstruction and
burn units at various hospitals. Mrs. Parent has homeschooled her children for 6 years. She will be
teaching Chemistry and Biology this year for CHAT.
CINDY PAYNE: Cindy is a certified teacher for grades kindergarten through sixth grade. She taught
for 3 years in private schools before having her three children. She has homeschooled for 13 years.
She is involved in the children’s ministry at her church and is also in charge of the Awana program
there. Cindy will be teaching the 6th grade block of academic classes for CHAT this year.
SHEILA RAMOS: Sheila has a Bachelors Degree from St. Leo’s University. She has taught early
Childhood Education classes at the College of Central Florida, served as the coordinator for Art and
Cultural programs at CF and Brick City Center for the Arts. Sheila has owned and operated The Artist
Hub of Ocala since 2004. She teaches Art at Montessori Prep School, Brick City Center, and
Hobby Lobby; as well as works with Munroe Regional Medical Center and Ocala Regional Seniors.
Sheila will be teaching Art Classes on Tuesdays for CHAT this year.
JANICE RAY: Janice earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education for grades K-12 from
the University of Florida, and she holds a Masters of Education in School Counseling for grades K-12
from the University of Central Florida. Janice spent 32 years teaching and serving as a Guidance
Counselor at Reddick Collier Elementary School. Janice received several awards , including
Teacher of the Year for Physical Education at the Elementary school, and she was elected Marion
County Counselor of the Year. Janice is also a grandmother to one of our CHAT students, Luke Ray.
She will be teaching Physical Education, Middle School Math, and Intro to Algebra this year for CHAT.
SUSAN SCHRUM: Susan is joining CHAT as a new teacher this year. Susan has been a home school
mom to her four children for 11 years. Over the last several years, Susan has tutored English
grammar and writing to 9 -13 year olds and has tutored Latin to 9th and 10th graders. She is
creator of the Latin For Moms website. Before her children came along, Susan worked as an
engineer for IBM. This year Susan will be teaching English and Literature.
ANGELA SIROLLI: Angela is a Church Administrator and a home school mother of two.
She is the wife of the Associate Pastor of Belleview First Assembly of God. She is deeply involved in
her church and has had previous experience working with children as the Children’s Church Pastor
and has worked as a preschool teacher’s assistant at a Christian Academy. She is very passionate
about art and enjoys a variety of art forms. Currently, she does interior decorating and murals as a
side job. Angela is joining us a an Art teacher this year on Thursdays.