A Sunday School leader recently shared her leading problem: "We just don't have enough teachers." Many Sunday Schools identify this as a key challenge. Why is it hard to find volunteers? Are people insecure about their knowledge of the Word or their teaching ability? Are people too busy? Sunday Schools are a vital part of a congregation's future. What can we do to find and mentor new teachers?
Approaching Potential Teachers
If you are inspired about Sunday School, chances are you will be an inspiration to others! Think of the ways your program benefits children, teachers and your congregation, and share what you see. Identify people who have potential to be successful teachers-teens, singles, newcomers who have attended for a while, moms, dads or grandparents. When you approach them, express confidence in their potential to do a good job. Assure them you will provide support and training. Offer opportunities to observe or help others before teaching alone. For large groups, offer a teen helper. Define a commitment period-nine months or a year. Keep it short so people can try it and gracefully bow out if they want to. Avoid using guilt-producing strategies to retain teachers, e.g. saying "no one else can do it". Volunteers are more likely to say "yes" if they trust that you will honor their choices.
Training
Experienced teachers develop strategies for using time efficiently and for creating fun, engaging lessons. Teaching classroom management and lesson-building skills will help new teachers get off to a good start. Imagine if someone asked you to do something new, e.g. arrange flowers or play the organ. A few lessons would make a huge difference to your success! A person who has never taught may find teaching just as intimidating and frustrating. Planning and providing training for all teachers may give your entire program a boost. Contact us at sundayschool@newchurch.org if you would like help with this.
Mentoring
Instead of just sighing with relief once you have new recruits, mentor them. Mentoring helps bridge the gap between theory and practice. Make a phone call or stop in before or after a class to offer encouragement, praise or simply a pair of hands. Notice the good things that are happening, e.g. "Wow-everyone was so excited after Sunday School. You must have had a great lesson." Build trust so that new teachers will feel comfortable sharing their difficulties too. Mentioning their good work to others will multiply the praise and support they receive.
Creating an Effective Team
Have group meetings at least once a year. If it's too hard to meet in person, try using Skype or Google+. Create an email group so it's easy to reach everyone to find substitutes or make last minute changes. Show appreciation. A small gesture-providing tea, coffee or leaving chocolate or other goodie for a teacher once in a while-will go a long way!
Connecting with Other Sunday Schools
Suggest that teachers "like" New Church Sunday Schools on Facebook and sign up for this newsletter. We look forward to hearing about your adventures!
