Middle School Ministry
6th-8th Grade

Mobilizing students' God-given potential to deeply love Christ and their neighbors.

We believe that this happens most effectively through relationships, fun, and biblical teaching. Middle school is a critical time for the development of students and we want to support parents as the main spiritual influence in their kids' lives.

Connect with us this summer!

Wednesday Morning
  • 10:00am-Noon
  • Valley Church Courtyard Hall
  • Program Focus: Games, connection, interactive lesson, discussion groups
  • June 8, 15, 22, 29
  • July 6, 13, 20, 27
Sunday Morning
  • 9:30-10:45 am
  • Location: Valley Community Center Event Hall (Gym)
  • Program Focus: Relationship-building, games, and short Bible lesson
  • Every Sunday Morning (Except Christmas and Easter)
Upcoming Programs & Special Events
Email A Staff Member

Middle School Ministry Team

Joe Budish

Middle School Lead Associate

Email: joeb@valley.church

Jodi Overholt

Middle School Associate

Email: jodio@valley.church

Parent FAQs

How many students are in the ministry?

Summer:

  • 30-40 students on Wednesday morning
  • 40-50 students on Sunday morning

School Year:

  • 140-160 students on Wednesday night
  • 50-60 students on Sunday morning

What programming do you offer for 6-8th grade students during the summer?

Wednesday mornings at Valley Church from 10:00 am-Noon
Sunday mornings at the Valley Community Center from 9:30-10:45 am

What programming do you offer for 6-8th grade students during the school year?

Wednesday nights at the Valley Community Center from 6:30-8:00 pm.
Sunday mornings at the Valley Community Center from 9:30-10:45 am.

Do I need to register my child to attend your programming?

No registration or payment is required for students to attend our Wednesday night or Sunday morning program. They can just show up and we’ll get them plugged in with other students! Registration and sometimes payment is required for students to attend our special events.

Should I go in with my child the first time they attend programming?

That’s up to you and your child. If your child has been invited by a friend, they can meet up with their friend before entering the building. If your child is coming alone, you are welcome to accompany them into the building. One of our adult volunteer leaders would be happy to meet you and your child and help them get connected with other students right away.

What's the difference between Wednesday mornings and Sunday mornings during the summer?

They are similar. Both have a laid-back feel. They both focus on fostering relationships, spiritual growth, and fun! We want kids to be excited to come to church!

What's the difference between Wednesday nights and Sunday mornings during the school year?

Wednesday nights are upbeat, energetic, and relational. Sunday mornings are more relaxed, instructional, and large group-based. If new students were to choose one program, we recommend they start with Wednesday nights.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Jodi Overholt and Joe Budish are the Middle School Ministry paid staff and would be happy to answer your questions. They love connecting with parents! You can either email Jodi or email Joe.

“

The Valley Middle School Ministry is the best place to meet other people. Whether it's going to some awesome event like the Blitz All-Nighter or Winter Blast, you're always around good people. I've doubled my friend circle since I've entered the Middle School Ministry.

Levi CooperMiddle School Student
“

The Valley Church Middle School Ministry has been a tremendous partner with us as we seek to raise our kids to love God and love others. It is a great combination of fun and solid biblical teaching. Our kids have developed meaningful relationships with the other students as well as the volunteer leaders.

Michael MiesenParent
“

Valley Middle School Ministry has changed my life completely and for the better! Since 7th grade I have been able to grow relationships with leaders and adults who have become mentors in my life and also make lifelong friends through retreats and serving the community. This ministry had given me an outlet for my faith that’s has made it so I am not only growing in my own faith but helping others to find God.

Addison LustMiddle School Student
“

Valley Middle School Ministry is a gift to my family. It has been a safe, nurturing environment for my kids, where they can ask hard questions, deepen relationships, and grow in their faith in Jesus. Joe is not only a great leader, he is a champion encourager and a valuable resource. Above all, my kids feel loved and connected at Valley. We are so thankful for this ministry.

Sarah HansonParent

Parent Resources

Parents, you are the most influential person in your child's life! In order to partner with you, here are some resources to help you navigate some of the complexities of parenting a teenager.

Valley Church Parent Podcast

Weekly encouragement for 6th-12th grade parents from the Valley Student Ministries staff.

Remedy Live

Suicide prevention chat center

The Talk

A book series to help you talk with kids about sex

Praying For Your Kids

Books, ideas, and Scripture to pray for your kids

Axis.org

Understand youth culture

Cell Phone Discussion Guide

Have an important conversation (credit North Point Church Middle School Ministry)