Students and ministry are our top priority. These key procedures are needed to maintain safe and healthy boundaries:

Screening: Everyone serving in the children or youth area – volunteers and staff – are subject to a background check, interview, and references in order to interact with them, as well as Safe Sanctuary training with an annual review.

The Rule of Groups: Those serving with children or youth are not to be in alone in private with them.

Examples of appropriate gatherings, not limited to: (group settings, public spaces, two adults with a student) 

Transportation -Students are to be driven with parent/guardian permission and two adults in the vehicle. Preferably with more than one student.

Counseling – In instances necessitating a one-on-one basis:

• Written approval of parent or guardian
• Written notice to other youth pastors or staff
• Presence in building of other adults
• During operational hours where other adults are in proximity
• Preferred Location: Youth office or Highway Breakout rooms

Electronic Communications –

▪ No forms of anonymous or anonymizing communications are to be used, to including Snapchat.

▪ Text or other electronic communications by STNS Employees with children or youth will abide by rule of groups.

▪ Text or other electronic communications by Volunteers with children and youth will also follow the rule of group.

We encourage you to report any perceived violation of these safeguards to the Senior Pastor, Executive Pastor or Church Board.

Full Policy