Two Adult Policy

Two Adult Policy for Stake Seminary Programs

1. What is the policy?

“To protect teachers and students, two adults should be present in the building or home where a seminary class is being taught. An additional teacher may be called, or another responsible adult may be assigned to be present. The second adult could be the teacher’s spouse or the parent of a class member. He or she should be the same gender as the teacher, unless that person is an adult member of the teacher’s family. A teacher should never be alone with a student unless the student is the teacher’s child. This applies in any setting, such as a classroom, building, virtual gathering, or vehicle.”

Note: An adult is any individual 18 years of age or over.

2. What are the key principles that govern the policy?

a. Teachers must not be alone with students and a second adult should be present to safeguard both students and teachers. “At least two adults must be present at all Church-sponsored activities attended by youth or children, either in person or virtually” (First Presidency, ‘Safety in Church Activities’, Letter, June 3, 2022).

b. Maintain proper teacher and student relationships at all times.

3. What can a branch/ward/district/stake do to implement the requirements of the policy?

a. Counsel together in ward/branch councils and consider the implications locally.

b. Consider calling an additional teacher or seminary admin assistant of the same gender as the seminary teacher, unless that person is an adult member of the teacher's family.

c. Establish a class roster involving parents and ward members. Note: Those scheduled to visit the class should be the same gender as the teacher, unless that person is an adult member of the teacher’s family.

d. Combine classes and have both teachers teach together. Note: Classes can be combined when the two teachers are of the same gender, or they are married, or are a parent with an adult child or two adult siblings.

4. If the 2nd adult scheduled to visit the class is unable to attend without any warning, do we need to cancel seminary for that day?

a. No. However, this pattern should be avoided and rectified as soon as possible. It is vital that each unit prepare for this occurrence well in advance.

5. Who should I counsel with if I need further help or have additional questions?

a. Please consult with your Priesthood Leaders. Each circumstance will be considered on its merits. Requests for exceptions to policy will require approval from the Pacific Area Presidency.

Substitute Teacher Guidelines for Daily Seminary

There may be occasions due to illness or other unforeseen circumstances where a substitute teacher may be required to cover a seminary class.

Substitute teachers should be approved by the Bishopric or Stake Presidency. Stakes may consider calling additional teachers at the beginning of the year for buildings/classes or identifying individuals that teachers can call upon when needed. If teachers are called, there would be an expectation that they engage in training.

A replacement teacher should be provided when teachers are away, not makeup work.

Points to help prepare a teacher who substitutes for you:

Hold current Blue Card (Qld) / WWCC (NSW).

Be approved by priesthood leaders

Reminder of dress standards.

Devotionals begin with hymn, prayer, and spiritual thought by assigned students.

Be sound in church doctrine.

Be punctual and dependable.

Keep a roll of attendance.

Love the youth.

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