What is a School Chaplain and How Do I Become One?

A school chaplain is a source of consistent support among busy students, ready to offer guidance to those navigating adolescence. Becoming a school chaplain means embracing a path that combines emotional support with spiritual care as you walk alongside young people through their most formative years.

If you have been considering becoming a school chaplain, this comprehensive guide is here to help you navigate your journey. From understanding the essential role of a school chaplain to the necessary qualifications and steps to take, this article provides a step-by-step roadmap to becoming a school chaplain. Whether you are passionate about helping students navigate their spiritual journeys or providing emotional support during challenging times, this guide will give you the insights and tools to pursue a rewarding ministry as a chaplain.

What is a school chaplain, and what do they do?

School chaplains are a hopeful presence in schools, providing support, resources, and spiritual guidance that can support a student’s educational experience.

As young people attempt to navigate this often-confusing season of life—facing depression, anxiety, and a growing list of mental and emotional health issues—the role of a chaplain in schools has never felt more important.

According to the CDC:

• Suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 24.​ (CDC)​​
• In 2021, approximately 23.6% of female high school students and 11.6% of male high school students reported making a suicide plan. Additionally, 13.3% of female students and 6.6% of male students attempted suicide within the same period. (CDC) 
• About 15.7% of high school students experienced major depressive episodes, with a higher prevalence among female students (22.3%) compared to male students (9.5%). (CDC)

While school counselors work tirelessly to battle the rising tide of mental health issues, they cannot carry this burden alone. Other school staff often lack the tools or training to address these concerns.

So, how do we reach hurting students with a message of hope and encouragement?

Many studies suggest there is a correlation between spirituality and decreased rates of suicide and anxiety among young people. (NIH) The presence of a school chaplain can offer a much-needed lifeline, providing a compassionate listener and helper in some of life’s toughest moments for the young individuals they serve.

By linking arms with a campus chaplain, we can support students during these incredibly important years.

What is a school chaplain?

A professional school chaplain serves as a source of support and compassion within the education system, providing encouragement and emotional care to students and staff alike.

Different from counselors, teachers, and administrators, chaplains bring a unique spiritual presence to the school environment, offering empathetic listening, kindness, and crisis intervention skills to all. Their role includes:

• Spiritual Guidance: Offer faith-based support respecting cultural and spiritual diversity.
• Crisis Care: Address the emotional and spiritual needs during challenging times.
• Referral: Connecting to counselors, faith leaders in the student’s faith community, and other resources as appropriate.
• Conflict Resolution: Assist in mediating disputes with a heart for reconciliation.

What does a school chaplain do?

The school chaplain’s duties often include offering spiritual guidance tailored to individuals from various faith traditions and those without religious affiliation. Professional school chaplains do not proselytize nor offer spiritual support unless requested by the individual.

In addition to spiritual care, a school chaplain may provide crisis intervention in times of crisis or grief and help students navigate social and emotional issues. The chaplaincy skills they bring into the school environment position them as a source of comfort and guidance that doesn’t always exist in a school setting.

It’s important to note that school chaplains must be attuned to the diverse religious and cultural backgrounds of students, fostering an environment of respect and understanding across various faiths and beliefs.

Education and Skills Required to Become a School Chaplain

Becoming a school chaplain requires a combination of education, certifications, and intrinsic personal qualities. A chaplain works alongside educators and school administration to support everyone’s goal of improving students’ health and well-being in and outside of the classroom or campus.

Educational requirements to become a school chaplain

Becoming a school chaplain involves acquiring certain qualifications and credentials. However,  there are no standardized federal regulations regarding chaplaincy, so requirements may vary depending on the certifying organization and the school district you’re hoping to work for. For instance, the International Fellowship of Chaplains (I.F.O.C.) offers comprehensive training programs for aspiring chaplains, including specialized courses specifically designed for school chaplaincy.

To become a credentialed school chaplain under I.F.O.C., individuals must undergo a rigorous application process and complete various levels of training. This includes obtaining advanced chaplain certification before progressing toward specialized school chaplaincy training. Throughout these programs, candidates gain invaluable knowledge in crisis intervention, child development, and other relevant areas.

Relevant Skills and Qualities

In addition to education, a school chaplain must exhibit the personal skills and qualities that enable them to navigate the life challenges and experiences of students.

Essential skills include:

• Empathy and compassion: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others.
• Effective communication: Articulate in both speaking and writing, crucial for conveying support and guidance.
• Active listening: The capacity to listen attentively and provide feedback that shows understanding of the situation.
• Conflict resolution: Skills to mediate disputes and offer constructive solutions.

School chaplains must also possess several qualities that are not necessarily taught in a classroom setting.

Our most successful chaplains are individuals who have:

• A strong ethical foundation: A steadfast moral compass guiding their actions within the school community.
• Resilience and adaptability: The strength to cope with emotional situations and the versatility to adapt to varying circumstances.
• Spiritual maturity: Depth of understanding in their own faith tradition and respect for the diverse spiritual perspectives of those they serve.
• Cultural sensitivity: Awareness of and sensitivity to the cultural and religious backgrounds of the student population.

While formal education and certification lay the groundwork, it is the combination of these skills and intrinsic qualities that truly enable a school chaplain to become a reliable, well-equipped helper in the lives of young people. As they step into a space where professional chaplains share their calling to serve, a well-trained school chaplain can become an invaluable part of our schools.

How To Become A School Chaplain

If you’re considering this pathway, it’s essential to start by finding a reputable chaplaincy certification. While there are many, it’s important to find one that fits your needs, such as in-person or online at-your-own-pace classes.
Individuals seeking to become certified chaplains have several options for obtaining their certifications. Each chaplaincy organization has its own set of requirements and standards for credentialing, including educational qualifications, clinical training, and more. By completing the certification process with one of these reputable organizations, chaplains can demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence in the field of chaplaincy.

Become a Chaplain Through International Fellowship of Chaplains

The International Fellowship of Chaplains (I.F.O.C.) offers comprehensive training for individuals seeking a career in chaplaincy. Understanding the critical role of chaplains in providing support and spiritual guidance, I.F.O.C. equips individuals with invaluable skills and knowledge that are essential for the profession.

Benefits of I.F.O.C. Chaplaincy Training include:

• Variety of classes: I.F.O.C. provides a diverse selection of classes that cater to the specific needs and interests of chaplaincy students. Whether it’s for a school setting, first responders, or disaster response, I.F.O.C. has a program for you.
• Flexible learning options: With the option to join classes in person or online, I.F.O.C. assures convenience for all. The virtual classes are particularly advantageous for those who prefer to learn at their own pace or have scheduling constraints.
• Community of peers: Training with I.F.O.C. also means becoming part of a community. Chaplains are able to connect with like-minded individuals, fostering a network of professionals dedicated to the field of chaplaincy.

I.F.O.C. prides itself on providing a meaningful educational experience that empowers future chaplains to meet life challenges with competence and compassion. Whether you’re looking to serve in schools, healthcare organizations, or other areas needing pastoral care, I.F.O.C. lays the foundation for a fulfilling chaplaincy career.

Hone Your Skills With School-Specific Training and Experience

The I.F.O.C. offers an invaluable continuing education course for those seeking to work in the education system as a chaplain. 

Our School Chaplain course offers a deep dive into the needs of school chaplaincy, from understanding recent state laws affecting the profession to mastering the art of handling challenging conversations. Expert chaplains share their firsthand experiences through insightful interviews, giving you a clear window into the realities of the job. The curriculum is enriched with knowledge on child development, ensuring that each aspiring chaplain can offer age-appropriate spiritual guidance and pastoral care.

Modules included in the training are:

• School Chaplaincy Law Overview
• Fundamentals of being a School Chaplain
• Techniques for challenging conversations in chaplaincy
• Expert interviews with current School Chaplains
• Child development for pastoral settings
• Recommendations for continuing education in chaplaincy

Expand Your Opportunities to Serve Through Advanced Certifications

Advancing your chaplain certification can significantly expand your opportunities, as well as your marketability when applying for on-campus roles as a school chaplain. Through I.F.O.C.’s Advanced Chaplain Certification, you will build even more credibility and elevate your credentials.

Getting Connected To A School System As A School Chaplain

While each school system will establish its criteria for hiring or engaging volunteer school chaplains, having recognized credentials and certifications significantly enhances the chances of securing a position.

Furthermore, building trust, establishing relationships, and demonstrating the value of chaplaincy services contribute to expanding access and opportunities within educational institutions. Once you have the certifications and training, you must begin networking and connecting with the school districts you’d like to serve.

Stories of Compassion and Care from School Chaplains

Become a School Chaplain Through I.F.O.C. Today

School chaplains offer encouragement, counseling, and spiritual guidance to help build emotional support and foster spiritual growth. For over 25 years, the International Fellowship of Chaplains (I.F.O.C.) has credentialed thousands of Christian Chaplains worldwide. 

If you are passionate about helping young people find hope and purpose, consider becoming a school chaplain through I.F.O.C.

Join the community of chaplains who are making a difference in the lives of others today.