Director of Christian Education and Youth
St. John's Presbyterian Church
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
Reno, Nevada 89509-3698
POSITION DESCRIPTION
TITLE: Director of Christian Education and Youth
PURPOSE: To provide leadership and support for the church's broad program and mission in Christian Education, encompassing children, youth, and adults.
REPORTS TO: The Pastor
RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. To serve as staff resource for the Christian Education Committee and other designated bodies as assigned by the Pastor.
2. To plan, manage, direct or act as a resource, and secure staff for the following programs:
a. Church School from 2 years old through adults
b. Kingdom Kids program during both services of worship
c. Confirmation/commissioning class for youth at least once every other year
d. Intergenerational programs
e. Summer Sunday Church School for all ages beyond the age of 2
years
f. Vacation Bible School
g. Summer Resident Camp
h. Advent/Christmas programming
i. High school tutoring 2 evenings per week
j. Audio/visual resources for all church programs related to Christian
Education
k. Youth Connection program for both middle (grades 6, 7, 8) and high school (grades 9, 10, 11, 12) students that provides opportunities for spiritual growth through fellowship, service and learning. This program will include weekly meetings, of which one per month will be an activity solely for fellowship, and other activities as appropriate.
l. Facilitate a college-career group.
m. Communicate regularly with students and parents through bulletin announcements, letters, e-mails, etc. (with help from church office staff).
3. To research and present to the Christian Education Committee for consideration and approval curricula for age groups from 2 years through adults; develop special curricula when needed; order curricula approved by the Christian Education Committee.
4. To coordinate the children's music programs with the Director of Music as part of the Sunday Church School program.
5. To be responsible for:
a. Teacher and leader training programs.
b. Maintaining relationships with teachers and leaders.
c. Coordinating use of rooms used jointly by St. John's Children's Center and the Christian Education programs of the Church
d. Reviewing Children's Center curricula for Christian values content and approach, making suggestions and providing resources to the Children's Center Director for the development of an effective Christian values program in the Children's Center
e. Coordinating Together Time for the Children’s Center
f. Developing and implementing a stewardship program in the Church School.
6. To work with the church Librarian to maintain the Children's Library and to recommend new books for purchase.
7. To provide opportunities for recognition of teacher volunteers.
8. To attend meetings related to Christian education, such as serving on a committee of Nevada Presbytery and attending the annual meeting of the Association of Presbyterian Church Educators.
REQUIRED SKILLS:
A vibrant faith in Christ, a love of the Presbyterian Church, openness to theological diversity, administrative gifts, a love for people, and the ability to inspire and motivate volunteers. Significant knowledge of the Bible and the Christian faith in the Reformed tradition and of teaching methodologies and techniques. Organizational and computer skills. A certificate as Certified Presbyterian Christian Educator, or willingness to work toward that certification is desirable. Excellent communication and interpersonal relationship skills.
Must be at least 25 years of age and possess a valid Nevada drivers license
PRIOR EXPERIENCE/EDUCATION:
A baccalaureate degree and/or equivalent training. Teaching experience in secular and/or church education programs is desirable.
RELATIONSHIPS:
Works in close relationship with the Pastor, the members on the Christian Education Committee, and the Director of St. John's Children's Center. Attends staff meetings and meetings of the Christian Education Committee of Session, the St. John's Children's Center Board, and the St. John’s Session. Responds to requests of the Session and its committees for information and assistance in educational programs.
Meetings and events with youth under the age of 18 must have at least two adults over the age of 18 as advisors.
QUALIFICATION FOR EMPLOYMENT:
The Director become a member of the church, be a regular attendee of Sunday worship services, and be involved in our community church life.
EVALUATION:
Performance reviews will be conducted annually by the Pastor. The Personnel Committee will review the performance review and adequacy of compensation at least once each year.