Imagine if you could work together with the schools in your area towards mutually beneficial goals? Well, I am seeing the door opening in our area for partnership with the superintendent!
Meeting with the Superintendent
I help coach networks in the Cincinnati Area with National Network of Youth Ministries. A few weeks ago one of our youth worker networks had the opportunity to sit down with the Public School Direct Superintendent Dr. Jackson. The youth pastors and other para-church ministries shared how important youth development is, especially through their adolescent years.
Students need Support
What the schools have found is that students who have strong family support, local church support, and school support do better than the students who miss one or more supports in their lives. This was researched by the 40 Developmental Assets in 2010. This research looked at 89,000 students in grades 6-12 in 26 states.
The students that had these three groups investing in them are more likely to have strong leadership abilities, live a healthier lifestyle, show diversity (getting to know people of other race), and succeed in school. On the other hand, students who don't have these people investing in them are more likely to use alcohol and drugs, engage in violent behaviors, and become sexually active.
Working Together
Dr. Jackson said that the church provides opportunities for youth to grow in their faith, they reach and work with their parents, and provide leadership development. Dr. Jackson asked the network to help in reaching students and help in their character development.
It is amazing that a public school superintendent wants youth pastors to work with the schools to help build their students! This is a great opportunity for the youth pastors to reach students for Christ, and to equip students as leaders so that they can reach their friends and classmates for Christ on their campus.
What are some ways you can partner with the schools in your area?