Cairn University remains committed to providing resources and encouragement to the local community. In line with this commitment, a new event was organized specifically for Cairn’s constituents: the Homeschool Conference, which was conceived and implemented by faculty and staff who recognize the importance of supporting local homeschooling families. Many families choose homeschooling because they value the integrity of a biblically-centered education for their children. Cairn’s mission as a university aligns closely with these values, making this year’s conference theme, “Intentional Biblical Integration,” especially meaningful.
In its inaugural year, Cairn was pleased to welcome those that represented 32 homeschooling families. Participants attended multiple sessions throughout the day, each emphasizing the speakers’ experiences with building a biblical curriculum. In addition, families also learned how Cairn’s own resources—such as dual enrollment and Kidsport—reinforce these values.
The first two sessions featured speakers from outside the Cairn community, both with extensive homeschooling experience. Mrs. Kristen Jones of Like a Mustard Seed Farm shared her insights as a mother, homeschool teacher, and family farm worker. Her experience highlighted the importance of children spending time outdoors and learning about God through nature and observation of their play. She discussed ways to build a curriculum around the seasons, integrating subjects like art, math, and music. Following Mrs. Jones, Dr. Ana Samuel of Canavox addressed the growing challenge of objective truth in relation to human sexuality. Her presentation, Talking to Our Kids about Their Identity: Timeless Truths for Confused Times, offered strategies for parents to navigate the distortions of contemporary culture through an intentional curriculum that protects students without making them ignorant to such issues.
After the guest speakers, several of Cairn’s own faculty members shared their expertise as educators. In a session titled Redeeming the Humanities: Applying the Creation-Fall-Redemption Worldview Assessment Model to Primary Sources, Dr. Tori Aquilone and Mike Zimmerman built on Dr. Samuel’s theme, discussing how a deliberately biblical curriculum—particularly through the Creation-Fall-Redemption worldview assessment model—can teach students about ultimate truth. Additionally, professor Barb Cooper presented practical strategies and resources for working with students who have learning disabilities, providing parents with an opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion.
Reflecting on the conference, event coordinator Andrea Stange said, “It was a pleasure to host and interact with local homeschooling families as well as some who are considering homeschooling. We look forward to making this a yearly event where Cairn partners with the homeschooling community in educating young people to grow in their knowledge of the Truth.”
Cairn University extends its gratitude to the organizers and attendees who made this event a success.
