BOUNDRIES

  • We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. - 2 Corinthians 6:3
  • So a church leader must be a man whose life is above reproach. He must be faithful to his wife. He must exercise self-control, live wisely, and have a good reputation. - 1 Timothy 3:2

As a student ministry volunteer, it is absolutely essential that you practice healthy boundaries with students at all times...for their safety, and for yours. These guidelines exist to protect students from harm, and to protect you from false allegations. And keep in mind, while these guidelines apply to your interactions with all students, they are absolutely INDISPUTABLE when dealing with students of the opposite gender.


Don't be alone with a student.

If you need to have a private conversation with a student, have the conversation in a public place, not behind closed doors or in a room or vehicle alone. Here are some tips to help you navigate through this particular guideline.

  • MEETING WITH A STUDENT: Do not set up one-on-one meeting with students without the knowledge and consent of their parents. Avoid initiating one-on-one meetings with students; instead, allow the student or the studentsʼ parents to be the initiators.
  • TRANSPORTATION: Never transport a student of the opposite gender anywhere alone. If a student of the same gender needs a ride, do not agree to drive them if you and the student will be alone unless you have parental consent. The best practice in any situation is to arrange to have another adult or student ride with you. If thatʼs not possible, itʼs OK to say no.


Maintain physical boundaries.

USE WISDOM. Maintain healthy and safe physical boundaries with students at all times. This means setting boundaries for yourself, but it may also mean setting and enforcing boundaries with students who push physical limits. Students will interpret touch in a variety of ways that may not be what you intended. It’s ok to err on the side of caution and set thicker boundaries rather than unintentionally overstepping a student’s thin boundary.


Log electronic conversations.

When you find yourself in the midst of a sensitive conversation with a student, keep in mind that words and intentions can be misconstrued - intentionally or unintentionally. Any time you are engaged in a serious conversation with a student, log your conversations. Take screen shots, paste text into a Word document, save text messages and emails or journal the conversation. The safest practice is to text students in a group message. If you ever receive anything from a student via text or email that seems inappropriate or even questionable, contact a Hope Students staff member immediately. This gives you accountability and credibility and it will help us navigate the next steps with the student and their family. This may seem excessive, but if youʼre ever falsely accused of misconduct from a student or parent, youʼll be glad you did it.


Report dangerous situations.

If a student ever says, “I need to tell you something, but you canʼt tell anyone,” do not agree. Let them know that youʼll need to inform the Hope staff if the student is being hurt, may hurt themselves, or may hurt someone else. Report any of these cases (proven or potential) to the Hope staff immediately.