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| If you're thinking or musing about the possibilities of using empty church facilities for child care or day care,
but don't know where to turn for advice or assistance, you are not alone. The Diocese of Newark established the
Newark Association of Parish Schools (NAPS) in January 1997. The association assists congregations establish child
care centers, pre-schools and schools and provided existing institutions with information helpful to the successful
operation of their centers. From time to time, the association recommends standards for child care institutions
within the diocese, establishes channels of communication between the different institutions and promotes the interests
of child care and education within the diocese. The association was formed after a year long study by the Task Force on Child Care. The task force reported its results to the 1997 Diocesan Convention. A copy of the report is in the 1997 Journal. The report includes such information as licensing procedures and accreditation; sample budgets with salaries, expenses and tuition; management tips for rectors and vestries/executive committees; getting started; and, a check list of your facilities. There are many threads which weave a rich tapestry calling us forth to this ministry, states the report. Some theological precepts were given on which you may reflect when deciding whether or not to establish a child centered educational institution. Good stewardship of our buildings and our resources. Pastoral Care for the people in our communities in need of a safe place and a healthy, nurturing environment for their children. Christian Education can be either implicit or explicit. Evangelical opportunities abound when young families enter a church facility. Outreach and social justice is served particularly in communities with special needs such as ministry to the specially challenged or teenage parents trying to complete their education. For more information, contact the National Association of Episcopal Schools (NAES), 815 Second Avenue, Suite 313, New York, NY 10017. |