A local network can rally around many passions and causes, but one of the most obvious is the local school. It is the one thing that all networks have in common. The question is what is the (or a) strategy to connect to the local schools in your geographical area?
There is not an easy answer to the question. It takes time to develop a strategy that will have a lasting impact. Where do we begin with such a monumental task?
Here are a few thoughts to begin to be intentional and strategic in connecting to your local schools.
- Begin first by identifying the schools that you want to connect with. Whom can we rally and mobilize to serve the schools? It may seem obvious but create a list of those you can partner with. For example, who are the pastors, teachers, administrators, parents, students, coaches, community leaders, etc. that you want to connect with? Encourage them to engage in an ongoing conversation about what it means to adopt/partner with schools.
- Celebrate where God is already working. Are there bible clubs or campus ministries already established, like FCA, Young Life, YFC, Youth Alive, etc.? Begin establishing bridge building partnerships with these groups.
- Communication is key. We are learning that to start and sustain a movement there must be on-going communication between the partners. Henry Blackabee said it many years ago: "Find out where God is working and join Him."
- Prayer for the schools is the foundation that we must build on. Join forces to create an ongoing strategy with others in the community to lift up the needs of each school.
In establishing this strategy, we often forget those who are connecting with our students every day. We must engage teachers, coaches, and administration in the conversation. We must encourage, resource and empower them.
Where do students fit into the strategy? Students are being challenged every day in classrooms, on athletic fields and courts. Students have been challenged to be concerned for the "Invisible Children" Why not challenge them to be concerned about the "Visible Ones" they sit by every day on their campuses. It is vital to equip and empower students to get out of their comfort zone and sit and a different place at lunch. We can encourage them to be on the lookout for intentional conversations with their friends. We can train them on how listen to their friends stories so they can connect them to God's story.
Finally, there are many resources that can support you in developing your strategy. Check out everyschool.com for some of the best resources available.
We are "Better Together," and there is no better place for God to use us than in our schools.