For some time now I’ve been a supporter of the idea that our formal Sunday School curriculum should only run through 8th grade, freeing up 9-12 for teens to continue their education through service. They would be free to find a niche in their parish and learn through experience while also nurturing a spirit of belonging and responsibility. 

For example:

Students in grades 9-12 could choose to serve as teaching assistants. Or, they could form a team to develop programs and activities for Sunday School general assembly.

Those more interested in serving during worship might find other areas to engage. They could use the time to train with Achen and lay leaders to assist at the altar. They could form a junior A/V team to assist with audio/visual operations and maintenance before and after the service.

Singers and musicians might be more inclined to use this time for aiding the choir without needing to find a time that doesn’t conflict with other activities. (This is a personal sore point, but I am sure that many others have experienced this as well.)

And finally, there is always the option of establishing a group for continued study, however, the topic of study could be more fluid based on the interests of those participating, such as general Bible study, discussions on current events, books, church history, and the list goes on.

These types of programs would obviously have to be developed and supported by an approved leader or advisor, but I am convinced that using this time in a more creative way has the potential to engage our teens on a more meaningful level.

One last thought: VBS provides an excellent platform to test this approach.

Comments and feedback are welcome.