Hello, Homeschoolers! Let me tell you about my homeschooling
experience! In 1986, I made the tough decision that I wanted to homeschool my children. All of you know my reasons
and motivation for making that decision. At that time, in Alabama, homeschooling was not legal. As the school
year approached, I searched out and purchased curriculum for my son, who was 6, and my daughter, who was 11. We were
all excited about our new adventure! The second day of our home school, a knock came upon our door. I opened the
door to greet a policeman who wanted to know why my children were not in school. I explained that we had decided to
home school this year. He readily informed me that home schooling was not legal in Alabama and further told me that
if my children were not enrolled in a school by the next morning at 8:00, he would return to arrest me and lock me up.
I knew that this man was not the one to argue with so I thanked him, assured him they would be and closed the door.
We spent the rest of the day deciding our plan of action. We had friends in Texas and knew that homeschooling was not
only legal, but very popular there. We lived in one of our family homes, therefore, we packed up everything we had and
stored it there on the farm. At 8:00 the next morning, my husband and I took the children to a local christian school
and registered them for the day, being obedient to the law. We went back home, finished packing all our things and our
car. We picked the children up at 3:00, when school was over, and headed to Texas. What a great adventure
it was! I homeschooled my two children for six years and loved every minute of it. We moved from Texas to
Georgia after a year and homeschooled there until 1991. Those six years are very precious to us and they were absolutely
the divine plan for that time. Therefore, homeschooling has a very special place in my heart. ~Rita
It has been such a delight to host in-home music lessons
Rita has given our girls here at the Ranch. We hear tentative voices exploring their range and tone possibilities in
the fall. By spring, they're full voice brimming over with confidence and enthusiasm. Rita invests more than technical
ability into our girls. She invests love and interest as well. In a momentary silence, we might slip in the practice
room for something to find a girl huddled over the table sharing a special confidence or a private joke. Rita shares
herself -lock, stock and barrel and the results are multiplied talent, ability and a love for singing. ~Larry and Bev
Elliott, Houseparents at Big Oak Girl's Ranch
Music has been wonderful therapy for the girls in our house.
It has placed smiles on their faces and confidence in their hearts. Another benefit has been a sense of belonging, and
having a place to try their talents even though some think they don't have any. It has shown them that if they try,
they can accomplish whatever they set their mind to do. ~Lucy Taylor, Big Oak Girl's Ranch
Charlie Gargus, Father of Show Choir Student
I thought I would take a minute just to drop you a line and say thanks...It takes a special person to gain the respect
and admiration that kids bestow on you. That respect and admiration can't be "created." Kids see us all the way
we truly are. Elizabeth sees you as someone very special. I am sure you reach those "trying" days just as we all
do. When they hit just, know you have a lot of prayers and thoughts of thanksgiving from more people than you know.
Tim and Sharon Kisor, Parents of Private Voice & Show Choir
Student
We would like to thank Rita Allen for all the time, encouragement,
guidance and confidence she has given to Laura over the last few years.Laura
started out with a dream of singing and performing.Rita brought her out of her
shell and she blossomed more and more each year.She is now confident in performing
and has the desire to go as far as she can go.Rita has instilled in her the
dedication and hard work that it takes to become the best she can be.Laura now
has a direction and goal that she is out to achieve and we will always be thankful to Rita Allen for her time, direction and
excellence in guiding Laura down a path that will bring her a lifetime of enjoyment.
Cindy Tate, Mother of Private Voice & Show
Choir Student
Rita, These past five years of training have
greatly improved and refined Nikki’s vocal ability.With your help we plan
to apply for scholarships.Your ability and availability to share your God-given
talent will go beyond your personal life through these students and bless millions across America.Respectfully, Cindy
Ellen and Phillip Cochran, Parents of Choir Student
Etowah Live has been just wonderful!I am so thankful that Rita has had the vision to offer this show choir for the students in Etowah County.Cara has really enjoyed singing with the choir and has learned many different kinds
of music…I appreciate the heart and soul Rita puts into practices and performances.Her positive attitude is reflected in these students.I know this choir
has had an amazing impact on Cara’s life.How many students can say they
have sung at Carnegie Hall?Thank you, Rita, for leaving positive footprints
in Cara’s life!
Rita Young Allen Teaching Credentials.....
Master of Science in Management Leadership (Healthcare Administration) from Troy University, Troy, Alabama
Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (Counseling, Emergency Management, Public Administration) from Jacksonville State University,
Jacksonville, Alabama
Executive Director & Marketing Director for two National Healthcare Corporations
Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Minor in Music Education from Jacksonville State University, Jacksonville, Alabama
Associate of Arts in Vocal Performance, Wallace State College, Hanceville, Alabama
Music School Owner for 24 years
Performed at Carnegie Hall with Private Choirs, 6 years
Church Music Minister, 30+ years
Published Author, "The Sheaf Dreamer"
Columnist, 20+ years
President of Alabama National Speakers Association, 3 years
Public & Private School Teacher, 10 years (Choral & Drama)
Pageantry, Top Ten, National Competition of Ms. Senior America & Alabama State Director
Rita Young Allen, Keynote Speaking Professional / Concert Soloist / Published Author / Bible Teacher / Emcee
Master of Arts in Liberal Studies (Concentration in Counseling) from Jacksonville State University.
Master of Science in Management Leadership (Healthcare Administration) from Troy University.
Bachelor of Science in Sociology, Minor in Music, from Jacksonville State University.
Associate of Science in Music Education, Vocal Performance
Snead State College, Gadsden State College, and Wallace State College.
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