The Stages of Professional Formation

Guidance on expected characteristics and abilities of a religious educator for each level of credentialing. Outlines the development of a professional not only in terms of competency knowledge and skill, but also in regard to one’s leadership formation and professional identity.
 Skilled LevelAdvanced LevelLeadership Level
Religious Educator ExperienceTwo years, at least quarter-time.Two years, at least half-time or four years at quarter-time.Five years, at least half-time or 10 years at quarter-time.
Age Ranges ServedChildrenChildren and YouthLifespan and Multigenerational
Scope of Knowledge and SkillsRefer to the Skilled Level sectionRefer to the Advanced Level sectionRefer to the Leadership Level section
Application and Integration of Knowledge and Skills
  • Uses information, ideas, and principles effectively in their work.
  • Assesses situations to determine needed information or resources.
  • Selects and adapts information and resources to effect change.
  • Evaluates situation to determine strengths, weaknesses and possible areas of improvement.
  • Articulates and explains reasoning behind a course of action.
  • Engages in ongoing assessment of outcomes and makes appropriate improvements.
  • Uses information and theory to solve problems and create new resources and programs.
  • Understands theory, e.g. educational, systems, etc., and puts it into practice.
  • Uses data, information, and theory to solve problems and create new ideas and resources.
  • Chooses and justifies a course of action or decision based on appropriate theory, evaluates outcomes, and refines the decision or course of action.
Leadership and Identity Formation
  • Understands one’s self as a religious leader and acts within appropriate boundaries.
  • Speaks and acts with appropriate authority in regard to those items within the scope of responsibility.
  • Supports the larger goals of the congregation through faith development and religious education programming.
  • Is capable of function as a leader in extra-congregational settings.
  • Leader in extra-congregational, district, and associational settings.
  • Has a consistent value system that guides their behavior.
  • Shows internalized commitment to ethical practice.
  • Demonstrates leadership and collaboration in working with minister(s), staff, and lay leaders.
  • Networks with religious professional colleagues within and outside the congregation.
Relationships with the Congregation
  • Understanding of “staff” role as distinct from “congregant” role.
  • Willingness to be mentored- “coachable.”
  • Works as part of a team.
  • Works collaboratively with minister(s), staff, and lay leaders.
  • Works independently with little need for day-to-day supervision.
  • Embraces “staff” role and works well as part of a team.
  • Accountable to religious professionals within and outside the congregation.
  • Understands team dynamics and assumes appropriate authority within the team.
Makes independent decisions within the scope of authority while working collaboratively with other professionals.