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Leadership In Youth Ministry

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Attendance, Arrival, and Dismissal of Events

Last Revised on January 13, 2012

Attendance

Keeping accurate records of attendance at scheduled parish youth programming will be helpful to track the participation of young people in the parish. Attendance records are also helpful if there is ever a question of presence of youth at a particular event, program, class, etc. Parents may believe youth, especially those who drive themselves, were at a particular event, when, in truth, they were not. Youth present on the premises but not at an activity when it begins should be invited to come in or asked to leave. CYMs who contact the parents of youth unexpectedly absent from events or classes will have a way both to link up with parents and to encourage future participation by being welcoming and showing concern.

Arrival and Dismissal

Adult leaders have a responsibility to and for youth between the time of arrival and the time of departure. Clearly state parish policy regarding both: Generally, fifteen minutes prior to an event and fifteen to fifteen minutes after an event gives parents and/or youth ample time to make connections and meet deadlines.

If it is necessary for a young person to leave a program early, clearly state that notification from the parent or guardian is required. Do not dismiss a young person to the care of an adult who is not the parent or guardian without expressed permission.

Related Policies:

Youth are never to be left alone on the parish premises. Another cleared adult, in addition to the cleared adult responsible for the program must remain with the youth until all youth have left. 1959