Teaching Moment: Edmond Church Opens Doors To Students

Every Wednesday Henderson Hills Baptist Church in Edmond is transformed into a school, giving more than 100 kids a fun and safe place to learn if their classrooms aren't an option.

It takes 50-60 church staff and volunteers to give K-8 students a place to learn and do their homework, and that includes help from former teachers.

"Those retired teachers say ‘this is a way I can serve our city, serve the church right now,’" said John Wohlgemuth, the lead teaching pastor.

Aside from schooling, the church provides meals and recreation for students.

With Wednesdays being the one day that all Edmond Public Schools students aren't in class, the need was great.

"We heard of parents who had struggled with taking their own kids to work with them. Their kids would have to sit there all day, and not even be able to do their homework while they're sitting at work with their parents," Pastor John said.

Aside from lessons and lunch, the church wants to offer a measure of consistency for kids, in a world that is anything but.

"There are so many unknowns, and we just feel like if we can give some consistency, if we can give some regularity to their days, then we can help them be able to focus on the learning they need to do. And all the things that they need to do just to get through the day," said Jennifer Sise of the church's outreach team. 

You have to register for Wednesday's at Henderson Hills, which has capped its capacity at 200 students.

Registration starts every Sunday at noon and ends Monday at 10 p.m. on the church's website.