The National School Chaplain Association (NSCA) is looking for interested applicants who want to serve as school chaplains. Do you have a calling? Read on to learn more.
Have you always seen yourself as a spiritual rock for young people? Do you see yourself fulfilling the role of a chaplain in a school setting? Then the NSCA's chaplaincy program might be for you.
The demand for chaplains in educational institutions is proportionate to the increase in suicide, violence, and mental health issues among youths. In response, the NSCA is opening several channels by which individuals in both sectarian and non-sectarian backgrounds can receive training to become resident school chaplains.
Visit https://nationalschoolchaplainassociation.org to learn more.
Chaplains are quickly becoming an essential part of the school system, with more schools appreciating their work for the students and teachers. For example, Texas, which has the most school chaplains in service, is also the state with the least number of incidents of school violence. Since the demand for school chaplains is increasing, the NSCA encourages more people to sign up for the chaplaincy programs and get certified.
Depending on your prior experience, you can fall into one of three training categories. Level 1 is best suited for experienced ordained ministers who need little training. For these candidates, the NSCA focuses more on background checking, placement, and re-certification, if the candidate’s license is from another state or country. Some briefings may be given, but the training is minimal, mainly about the NSCA’s values and standards.
Level 2 is recommended for candidates with prior experience teaching or working with youth groups. Applicants who are still college students can combine chaplaincy training with their regular subjects. Lessons are evenly spaced across eight weeks, with six hours of weekly class or hands-on training.
The 48-hour program is accredited by Oklahoma Christian University and is equivalent to one college credit or three CEU credits. These credits can be used by students working towards their bachelor’s or associate’s degree.
Level 3 is designed for applicants with no teaching background or experience with youth groups. This one-year training program is equivalent to one-year college credit, should the candidate decide to complete the chaplaincy training alongside their college degree. The candidates must have a high school diploma or GED to qualify for Level 3 training.
Regardless of what training level you will fall under, you will get background checks with the police, Interpol, FBI, and even social media. You will undergo rigorous training on chaplaincy, school safety, and how to avoid and minimize school violence.
Don't miss the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. Chaplains have a special position within the school system because they have a closer relationship with the students. They will view you more as a friend, confidante, and trusted adult, and you have the unique chance to improve their lives with prayer, scripture, and spiritual guidance.
Check out https://nationalschoolchaplainassociation.org/chaplains to get started.
