We have elementary classes (K-5), middle school youth (gr. 6-8), and we offer special courses for high school youth. Nursery care is available from September to June. In the summer, RE is a combined class for K-5.

The Pillar Model:

The RE Program for children and youth operates on the pillar model. It defines which curricula will be taught over the course of a child’s experience at CUU. In this model, there are seven pillars, or units of study, which are rotated on a two-year schedule.

These Pillars are:

  • UU Identity & History
  • Winter Holidays
  • Peace & Social Justice
  • Judeo-Christian Heritage
  • World Religions
  • Interdependent Web
  • Self-Development

Pillars may vary in length from 4 weeks to one semester and a full cycle covers a two-year period. As the cycle repeats and students revisit the pillars, there will be some review of material at an age appropriate level. All classes will be focused on the same pillar, but will be using different curricula and will have a different emphasis. For example, in the study of Peace and Social Justice, the early elementary class may learn about how to get along with their family and friends, while the youth are discussing global challenges. The same principles and values are being highlighted in all classes and the older students have a chance to draw upon what they have learned in previous years.

Some benefits of this Pillar Model are:

  • Someone who does not enter the program in kindergarten still has the opportunity to cover all of the units of study.
  • Having a common theme in all classes helps to build community in Children’s Chapel and intergenerational worship.
  • Flexibility in the order of the pillars allows coordination with the calendar (i.e. study of Judeo-Christian Heritage in the spring to include Easter and Passover.)

Interested parents are welcome to review Curriculum materials at any time during the course of the year.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Registration

Registration is required for children and teens (From Nursery through High School) who attend more than three times. It is a courtesy to our volunteer staff and the information that you provide helps us to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for your children. We ask that you give consideration to becoming an RE volunteer.

Worship

From the Sunday after Labor Day to the second Sunday in June, services are at 10:30 am and are led by our minister or a guest speaker. In the summer the services are at 9:30 am and are informally led by a member of the congregation or guest. During this time, children attend the first part of morning celebration with their families in the Sanctuary.

Schedule

After the “Story For All Ages” is read, during services, the congregation sings the children downstairs where they meet in the Children’s Chapel for a Children’s worship service.  At the conclusion of their chapel service, religious education classes begin. Twice a month we hold interclass sessions, where children and youth are together for a shared topic and activities.  On other Sundays, students are separated into classes by grade. (Birth-preschool, K-2, 3-5, 6-8).  Senior Youth Group meets on the first Sunday of each month, in the afternoon.

Parents are welcomed and encouraged to participate with their children whenever they wish to. Parents should come to pick up their children (Nursery through third grade) as close to the conclusion of classes as they can, or meet your children at the top of the stairs. Safety should always be at the forefront, and we do not want young children leaving the building without a parent.

Nursery Care

Nursery Care is available during services and is staffed by RE Volunteers and paid attendants. It is geared towards infant through Preschool ages, and provides a comfortable place for children to play, do crafts, and listen to stories.

Commitment

Our R.E. program is a cooperative effort. Parents are urged to become a part of the program through volunteering, donating supplies, and helping during events. Parents should also be prepared to bring their children regularly to their R.E. classes. Family commitments are crucial to the success of any RE Program.