As the current seven-month program has evolved over the years, it has become increasingly difficult to effectively accomplish our goals within that time frame.

We have always been challenged to teach the Bible from Genesis to Revelation, basic Christian Living, Comparative Religion and electives like speech class and choir within the seven-month time frame. Over the past couple of years we have seen the critical need to add assessments, including tests, research and reflection papers, and special projects to the program.

The current seven-month program allows little extra time for assessments or additional instruction opportunities without robbing from instruction time. We simply need more time for this essential holistic educational experience.

Historically, while our students have ranged in age from 18 to 80, the average ABC student is 22 years old. The latest education research reveals that younger people learn best in an academic environment with lectures that are combined with interactive discussion, workshops and group assignments. Adding these additional elements into the curriculum also takes more time.

Frankly, we do not want ABC to simply be a "knowledge dump." At this point we do not anticipate adding additional classes. We just need more time to teach the classes we already provide, adding assessments, accommodating newer learning styles and focusing on adding character-building opportunities for the young adults of the Church.

This new schedule will greatly improve our ability. For example, it will not only give students more class hours of instruction, but will open additional opportunities to serve at preteen, United Youth Camps and United Youth Corps projects during the summer before and after the ABC program. For those planning their education path, this will obviously require a full academic year, but it will provide much more value to grow spiritually and in godly character.

The new schedule will begin in early September 2008 and end in late May 2009. Since the current ABC year will end in mid-August 2008, it will be a quick turn around to bring new students in and begin the new academic year right after the U.S, Labor Day weekend.

We do not plan any tuition increase for this expanded program, but students will continue to provide for their own living expenses. Those of any age may apply for ABC—biblical education and character training are not just for our young adults.

If you would like to attend the new expanded ABC program in the fall of 2008, please send your application to ABC soon to reserve a spot. The class will be limited to 60 students at our home office in Cincinnati, Ohio. Applications are available online at abc.ucg.org. UN