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"Having taught CCD for the past number of years I see a very devout core of students who are very conservative in thought and deed."

That may be your experience, but from my own (somewhat recent, if I may add--I am one of the younger FReepers) the CCD programs--around me at least--aren't that great. I have not noticed the same phenomenon in my CCD classes. In my experience, the students (with some exceptions) are apathetic, most catechists, though of noble intent, are ill-informed (I assume you are not one; please do not be insulted), and are supplied with silly religion books that concentrate usually on touchy-feely themes of "Love makes the world go 'round," and say very little about doctrine.

For instance, when one student complained that Mass is boring, the catechist said that he should organize a fun youth one with the absolutely horrible guitar and student's band. Though I have been confirmed and are done with the formal CCD I have heard of other things: one catechist said that people on death row automatically go to heaven. I am pretty sure this is not true. However, in other sectors of the population, the people of my generation are pretty conservative.

Interesting thoughts...

I have pretty much abandoned the nonsense that the Religious education text books try and promote. Our latest edition, as of two years ago, does more promoting of Native American traditions than the Catholic Doctrine and theology. I'd love to just toss the book in the garbage can.

We spend much time on the Catholic Mass, Eucharist, the Altar, and the different aspects of the church.

We explore the new testament, and work towards the 4 Gospels.

During Lent we create a trial of Christ. The students take either the prosecution or defense. We put Christ on trial, but we don't have Christ. We use witnesses from both sides. The debates are lively and educational. It is usually done during Holy Week.

Our last few weeks have been on the rosary, and of course the impact of Pope John Paul the Great.