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Though the majority of our teens are raised to respect authority and rules and are a joy to be with, there are those occasions when (for a variety of reasons) it becomes necessary to enforce a degree of discipline on certain individuals who are not cooperating. During the years, we have found you, the parent, to be the key to appropriate behavior and respect. The following are the discipline policies and procedures that we will follow while on youth group events. Also, please make sure to read the “Commitment to Christ” sheet before signing it each trip. · While on Downtown sponsored events, we ask that all participants understand that we represent Christ first, then our congregation and our family. We ask that teens conduct themselves in the best possible manner. If a teen is guilty of inappropriate behavior or if they have not adhered to a given rule or guideline, the only recourse is for us to send them home (at the parents’ inconvenience and/or expense). In these circumstances, we will inform parents of the reasons for the discipline and why the actions were taken. · While in classes, Life Groups, or Jr. High Small Groups, we expect teens to behave appropriately and with respect. In the case where a teen chooses not to follow this guideline, we will accompany them to their parents’ class or ask a parent to attend with them. · “PLAYING THE YOUTH GROUPS” – Throughout the year there will be several opportunities for teens to take part in events that involve other congregations in town. We realize that sometimes our teens will choose to go with another church because of friendships and we encourage that. However, when one of our teens chooses to go with another group they are under their guidelines and no longer under ours (please make sure to refer to the Youth & Family Minister of that congregation). There are also times when our teens choose to not meet with either our expectations or have chosen to sign up beyond the deadline set. When those teens contact us and ask to come, and we deny that request, we ask that they not be allowed to attend with the one of the other groups (what we call “Playing the Youth Groups”). This is to teach our teens a greater sense of responsibility. Our policy in this matter is to exclude them from the next scheduled activity if they choose to disregard this guideline. · We encourage parents not to use the withholding of church activities as a means of punishment. We feel that this sends the wrong message to the teen. We do understand that it may be the only measure of discipline at the time and we will always respect your judgment in this area. · In extreme cases, we will involve our shepherds in the process of discipline and for guidance and prayers. |
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